The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 29, December 12, 2025 by theoceanaecho

Silver Lake State Park goes from horsepower to ‘horse power’

By Jenny Cook Michigan Horse Trails Association VP

In an area that is known for dune buggies, side-by-sides and four-wheel-drive vehicles, Silver Lake State Park has now gone from mechanical horsepower to true "horse power" for the month of November.

There is nothing comparable to the wind in one's hair, breathing the fresh air, surveying the beauty of the dunes, the expansive sky, and amazing Lake Michigan while navigating this terrain on your favorite horse.

Equestrians have always dreamed of riding their horses along the sandy shorelines and fresh waters of Lake Michigan, and now the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has made these dreams a reality by changing their Silver Lake State Park Management Plan to welcome people with horses during the month of November.

The Michigan Shoreline Horseback Riding Season is available with a $10 per horse reservation and a Recreation Passport on one's vehicle. Participants must bring their own horse. There are currently no horse rentals available at this location. Please visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Shoreline Horseback Riding Season website for Michigan DNR Shoreline Horseback Riding Registration, parking and safety tips. https://www. michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/horseback-riding/shoreline-riding

With a limit of 125 horses per day, there were over 2,400 horse reservations for the 2025 Shoreline Horseback Riding Season, indicating great interest in these opportunities. Many days during the first two weeks and most weekends were sold out.

People from throughout Michigan, the Midwest, and across the nation traveled with their horses to the Mears/Hart communities to enjoy these unique experiences of riding their horses across the dunes and along the sandy Lake Michigan shoreline.

These opportunities are some of the best shoreline horseback riding in the world when one considers the preferred sandy shoreline, which provides excellent footing for horses. Horses can soak their legs in the cool, fresh water of Lake Michigan, take a drink and keep on running!

The horses also thoroughly enjoy the open spaces where they can relax from the threat of predators, allowing them to give riders their full attention and run freely.

Horses of all ages, breeds, colors, patterns, shapes, sizes and styles all enjoy the Michigan Shoreline Horseback Riding Season at Silver Lake State Park. On any day throughout November there were a variety of horses from polo ponies, show horses, trail horses, Western, English, Dressage and more, all enjoying these very unique riding opportunities along the Lake Michigan shoreline. These are also relationship- and confidence-building opportunities for horses and riders. Exposing horses to new terrains and waters develops added value for horses too.

Another bonus from the Michigan Shoreline Horseback Riding Season is the positive economic impact generated as horseback riders travel from various areas of Michigan, surrounding states, and even across America to Oceana County. Riders stay overnight and camp at the Double JJ Ranch, the Oceana County Fairgrounds and many other horse-friendly campgrounds in the area. The Oceana County Fairground leaders are planning

improvements such as new restrooms, developing horse-friendly trails and hosting campfires with BBQs. Riders also visit restaurants and purchase fuel and supplies, boosting revenue for businesses in Oceana County.

Equestrians have expressed their thanks for the Michigan DNR Shoreline Horseback Riding Season.

The following are some quotes from riders expressing their appreciation, as shared on the Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends Facebook Page:

• “I look forward to this ride all year long! I feel like my horse loves it here as much as I do!” Julia C.

• “The Shoreline Ride is one of my horse’s favorite rides. He loves diving his nose into Lake Michigan and having a nice long fresh drink. He loves standing in the cold water on his hocks and knees. Several times I caught him just soaking in the

scenery with us, breathing in the fresh air, and licking his lips with so much comfort and contentment.” Karen M.

• “This was my first time doing this ride yesterday. I had so much fun! There were so many beautiful horses there and the people were friendly. This was the best time that I’ve had in I don’t know how long. I truly believe my horse has such a great time too! I couldn’t keep her out of the water. She just wanted to play in the water and was a happy camper. I am so looking forward to doing this again!”

Connie M.

• “100% My daughter and I were first timers, and we had a blast! It was amazing and so much fun. They did a great job setting everything up. We look forward to the next time!” Rhonda M.

• “It’s magical!” - Terry R.

• “Nothing short of breathtaking. A truly unforgettable experience creating lifelong memories.” - Kelly L.

• “The sand, sky, and water are gorgeous!” - Kira G.

• “We had the absolute best time! This has been a dream of mine for years!” - Kaylee B.

• “The ultimate feeling of FREEDOM!”Veronica C.

• “The Shoreline ride is an amazing opportunity to push boundaries and deepen trust between horse and rider.” - Dorothee K.

• “Michigan Shoreline Ride will now forever be one of my favorites. It was so exhilarating and closest thing to heaven I could feel!” - Patricia l.

To learn about more ride details, find places to camp with one's horses, and other locations to ride, visit the Michigan Horse Trails Association Website Shoreline page at michiganhorsetrailsassociation.com/shoreline/

New Wind Phone in Hart to help those experiencing grief

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The holidays are upon us, and with them all of the activities, events, traditions and memory-making. But for some the holidays can be hard. Especially if a loved one has passed away since last Christmas. There are many helpful ways to deal with grief - journaling, talking to a trusted counselor or member of the clergy, or attending a support group.

An unconventional mode of grief support, the “Wind Phone” is now available in many communities. A wind phone is a special phone booth equipped with a disconnected telephone and a bench or chair and may

include artwork and other comforting features. Wind phones are usually placed in secluded, natural surroundings. The purpose of the wind phone is to provide a space where people are able to “call” their deceased loved ones and talk to them.

While perusing social media one Sunday in mid-November, Dodie Stark, of Coldwell Banker Anchor Real Estate in

Hart, read an emotional story about a family in the Muskegon area who had utilized a wind phone to help one of their family members deal with a recent loss. Sharing the story with fellow staff members the next day got them thinking. Could they set a wind phone up in Hart, and if so, where? Could they bring the gift of healing to their community this Christmas?

Through the generosity of staff members and friends, a “The Healing Garden Wind Phone” was ordered shortly after and installed Friday, Nov. 28, in the Healing Garden of Main Street Spa, located at 302 Hanson St. in Hart.

The first wind phone on record is located in Ōtsuchi, Japan, when in 2010 a man set up a “phone

booth” in his garden as a way to grieve the loss of his cousin. In 2011, following the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the gentleman opened the booth to the public as a way to help others process the devastating losses of the event. Since then, wind phones have been installed all over the world.

The Healing Garden Wind Phone comes equipped with a handicap-accessible door, a vintage telephone and a whiteboard for jotting down thoughts, shared Stark. “The wind phone is dedicated to the family and friends of Coldwell Banker Anchor Real Estate, but is open and available for anyone to use,” Stark said. “Please note, it is an enclosed structure, but it’s not heated, nor is

the path to it always shoveled.”

The Healing Garden Wind Phone Facebook page headliner reads, "This phone will never ring. It is a Wind Phone, connected to nowhere and everywhere at once. It is for all who grieve someone they love and lost. It is to share memories, say 'I love you,' say 'I miss you' or to say the goodbye you never got to say. If you have words to send on the wind, pick up the handset and dial their number or spell their name.”

According to mywindphone.com there are currently 391 wind phones in the United States, including the one installed in Hart. The next closest wind phones are located in Muskegon and Manistee.

• Photo contributed by J Co Media

Pentwater Village Council honors retiring clerk/treasurer

By AnnaMae Bush

The

Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Dec. 8 Pentwater Council meeting was the last official council meeting for clerk/treasurer Rande Listerman, who is retiring from eight years of service in Pentwater on Jan. 2, 2026. Combined with her years in previous employment, Listerman said, “I’ve been taking minutes at council meetings for 20 years, and I’m looking forward to freedom from that responsibility!”

Village Council President Mary Marshall called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. Council members Don Palmer, Carl Schrumpf, Dave Bluhm, Dan Nugent, Jared Griffis, and Kathy O’Connor were present, and 10 residents were in the audience.

Following opening exercises, Bob French spoke on behalf of the Pentwater Historical Society (PHS) during the time for public comments related to the agenda. He reported that the PHS was interested in the second-story gym floor of the old village hall building. They wished to use the Falcons logo circle (approximately 6 feet by 6 feet in size) for the background of a museum display about the Pentwater school. They were also considering taking the entire floor out and selling engraved pieces of it to interested residents as a fundraiser for the museum. This request was met with great enthusiasm by council members and taken up later under new business.

The agenda was approved with one addition, and the consent agenda was also approved. There was no correspondence. The treasurer’s report and the written police report from Chief

Laude Hartrum were received. Chief Hartrum was thanked for all his work on accreditation for the Pentwater Police Department, and best wishes were extended for the two-day meeting with the state’s assessment team on Dec. 9-10. With no additional reports to discuss and no unfinished business, council moved on to the five items under new business. The first resolution listed the schedule for all open monthly meetings of council as well as committee meetings in 2026. It was approved. The second resolution listed the second-quarter budget amendments. A short discussion followed during which Listerman answered a question from council regarding how the quarterly budget amendments would be reported to the audit team at year’s end. The resolution was approved.

The third item was the disposition of the basketball floor in the old village hall. O’Connor stated it was important to name the party that would be responsible for taking up the floor and disposing of it. Nugent suggested that the PHS take on that responsibility. Elizabeth Russell, on

behalf of PHS, expressed a willingness but had some concern that if removing the floor was an exorbitant price, the PHS might not have sufficient funds to cover the cost.

Several council members offered help with the labor involved, and a suggestion was made to invite participation by the Artisan Center. “They removed the old yacht club floor and made several pieces of furniture for the new yacht club building out of the old floor.” The consensus was that many local residents would want a physical memento of the old gym floor and would gladly purchase a piece of the floor. A motion to give the PHS possession of the floor passed unanimously. It was noted the realtor had been informed that the second-story floor was

reserved by the village.

The fourth resolution was granting permission to the DDA for fireworks on New Year's Eve at the village marina. No state permit is needed because the fireworks do not reach the height that requires a permit. Approval was unanimous.

The fifth resolution (added earlier) was a proclamation to honor retiring clerk/treasurer Rande Listerman. The proclamation called out the special qualities and the thoroughness of Listerman’s work, her leadership with other team members through several personnel transitions, her punctuality and dependability. The proclamation was unanimously approved, and several council members personally expressed their thanks and appreciation for her work and, in

particular, her accessibility. Marshall announced that an open house retirement celebration for Listerman would be held on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 2-4 p.m., and that residents would be getting an invitation to attend.

Chet Janik was present for the final presentation of the strategic plan and called attention to the minor changes made since the last presentation. Marshall thanked him for all his work, and Janik expressed his appreciation for the committee members he worked with.

O’Connor expressed the importance of assigning names – people responsible for the tasks and goals set forth in the document. Griffis emphasized the importance of getting past the point reached in other SWOT exercises and actually working toward the goals. Janik urged the group to include an item on every monthly agenda that focused on one goal and gave an update on the progress toward that goal.

During public comment time, one resident spoke to an item “less weighty than other matters facing council but one that has been ignored for years and is a

matter of hospitality to visitors.” It is the matter of correct signage for Park Place, which is still referred to on Clymer signage as “Friendship Center.” Though residents know where Park Place is, visitors attending an event there do not find signs directing them to it. And street signs in the village are not helpful because they are barely readable.

Village Manager Toby Van Ess spoke to progress on selling the former ferry boat, working on a dredging permit, meeting quarterly with other municipal managers, meeting with the school about how to proceed with the recreation program and dealing with DPW equipment issues. He said interviews were complete for the deputy clerk/treasurer position, and a decision would be made Dec. 9. He reported the three DPW team members have worked many overtime hours in the dark to pick up leaves and move snow in order to keep downtown streets open to local businesses and shoppers. He encouraged residents to speak a word of thanks when encountering the DPW team.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

Rande Listerman

OCCOA board hears more public comment, approves budget

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Board of Directors meeting for the Oceana County Council on Aging was again met with a substantial audience and a multitude of public comments.

Before public comment, Doug Bacon, in his new role as board president, gave a statement to the audience laying out the function of the board and what expectations the public should have. “I want you to understand… that we [the board of directors] are not paid. We’re volunteers. We do this because we feel strongly about the aged in our county.”

Bacon went on to say that the board does not respond to things “the way you think we should” because “we can’t allow one person to be the voice for all this, because we don’t all think the same.” He also reminded the audience that “we will never respond to public comment. That’s not how the board works.” Bacon also went on to extend this expectation to concerns over employee situations, and that those situations are very rarely brought to the board and are rather the concern of OCCOA’s personnel committee.

Finally, Bacon reminded the audience that public comment is constrained to 3 minutes each and requested that the audience refrain from “[duplicating] what you’re saying… Nobody wants to hear it over and over.”

With all that said, there were still many people who gave public comments, with feedback close to evenly split.

Jan Christiansen, an attendee of OCCOA for over two years, praised the beauty of the main facility and the kindness and efficiency of the staff. Sally Duran

also showed support for the board, saying that she knows “you can’t reveal this personal stuff. And you have a right to hire and fire like any other corporation would.” She also supported the running of the building, food served, and activities. “When I walk in, everybody’s happy. And they have a place to go instead of sitting at home with nothing to do… this is a jewel for Oceana County that every citizen in this county can be proud of.”

Theresa Root, who formerly served on OCCOA’s Transportation Advisory Council for 20 years, praised the financial transparency she observed during her tenure. Root said that, now utilizing services as a senior, “I go to other [Councils on Aging] in other towns. There’s no council like this council… whatever we need to do to keep this wonderful, comfortable building and services and programs, I’m on it.”

Mary Sloan continued to speak about the abrupt firing of the former manager of Our Friends House Adult Day Care and the resulting emotional distress felt by her husband and former OFH client, Clair, as she has been consistently since August. “He fell into major depression, slept very little, had no interest in eating, and wanted to quit attending Friends altogether.” She also expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived “lack of caring, compassion, and concern” shown by the administration and board to her husband, even after his own comment at the meeting in November.

Following Sloan, Susan Stace presented on behalf of a group of other concerned Oceana County residents, called Oceana Grace, and formally requested records of staff salaries, benefits, and perks for the 2022-24 fiscal years, as well as copies of the 2026 budget and policies

concerning requests for bids.

Mary Lulich spoke of her experience as a former member of OCCOA’s Board of Directors and continued to request transparency on the Council’s running and finances, reminding the board of their responsibility to oversee the running of the administration. “Nobody wants this place to close down… that’s why we’re here. But we do feel that there is information that you have, that we’d like to see, so that we’re not spreading falsehoods.”

The board was presented the 2026 budget, which had been delayed at the October meeting, which was reviewed and approved unanimously. A physical copy was presented at the meeting for attendees to likewise review, available in the coatroom adjacent to the meeting space. The board likewise said that a virtual copy will be made available on OCCOA’s website. As of publication, the 2026 budget nor minutes from the October or December meetings have been posted. A copy of the September financial report was made available to the Oceana Echo upon request.

Following concerns presented at the last several meetings over OCCOA’s finances, the Council invited Certified Public Accountant Sarah Kanitz to present on the financial operations of the organization. Her firm, Lake Michigan CPA Services, has performed the audits for OCCOA for the past 14 years, and in her professional capacity, no financial wrongdoings, intentional or unintentional, were found in the most recent audit.

In correspondence presented to the board, Executive Director Stephanie Moore read a letter from family members of a past attendee praising the facility and services, thank you notes from seniors who received holiday baskets

during Thanksgiving, and a letter from Clara Müller, OCCOA’s World Horizon volunteer, who praised her observations of Our Friends House and the enjoyment from attending clients, where she works once a week. “These things that happen behind the scenes should never be forgotten and deserve as much recognition… because everyone here puts so much heart and soul into their work, and I haven’t seen that anywhere else by far.” Müller’s report was the only positive comment presented concerning Our Friends House.

Moore also shared an email from Pam Curtis, CEO of Senior Resources of West Michigan, the agency that expends the funds received by OCCOA from the state and federal levels. Curtis spoke to the gap in wages between the frontline workers and administrative staff, a noted public concern voiced in October’s meeting. “There’s always going to be a wage gap” due to the multiple business lines and regulations the administration must closely analyze and follow. “In-home services, adult day services, food services, senior center activities, and transportation - each of those could be its own business and is hugely important. It’s not the same type of responsibility as others.”

The OCCOA Board of Directors also received a presentation from Vice President of Administrative Services at West Shore Community College Mitch Foster on the new community center and college satellite facility that is going into the old Gale’s IGA grocery store building. The new facility will have a food bank, classrooms, an office suite, a drive-thru coffee shop, and a community meeting space, as well as provide an improvement to that block of downtown Hart’s streetscape.

This page is brought to you by:

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

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Last week I lamented how almost every postcard with a charming winter scene I found in the OCH&GS’s collection was written and sent during the summer months and bragged about summer outdoor activities. Here is one postcard that broke this mold and expressed the exact thoughts I have every winter.

It was postmarked Jan. 8, 1928 at 7:30 p.m., and was stamped at the Hart post office.

1/8/28 10 am

Rds blocked against Auto. Still unable to phone home. Will get there about 12:45 pm

Emerson

Yeah, that about sums it up: roads are bad, service stinks, and I’m gonna be late. From what this small vignette describes, nothing has changed in the past 98 years. Of course, there are the obvious differences: my 2017 automobile is probably marginally better at getting through snow than whatever Ford had cooking in the 1920s (again, car people, please correct me - I am seeking an on-call vintage automobile consultant). I can pay you in compliments and homebaked goods.) Also, not only is modern-day cell service an improvement from landline telephones a century-old, but mine is mobile and can play Christmas

music while I’m waiting for my dad to pull me out of a snowbank.

Even though my experience dealing with snow is far more cushy than what Emerson faced in 1928, I can sympathize with his abbreviated message and sloppy handwriting that just screams stiff and cold fingers.

Emerson chose a postcard showing a beautiful winter scene, helpfully captioned as “Just a Glimpse of White River.” And what a glimpse it is — a sliver of the mirror-smooth river peaks out behind leafless trees and evergreens, all weighed down with snow. From an artistic perspective, it’s gorgeous. The contrast of the dark trees to bright white snow is so visually interesting and draws the eye to the organic shape of the river. The foreground is framed by a wooden post and a single line of barbed wire, adding a human element to the otherwise untouched landscape. Thank goodness I possess some decent willpower, as I was tempted to pocket the postcard for myself.

The intended recipient of this lovely photo was simply “Postmaster - Riga, Michigan.” With a name at the top I could barely make out. Something like “Sue” or “Sean,” with a surname that I think begins with an “Sh” and ends in either an “ing” or a “y.”

I’ve seen some vague sending addresses in my time looking through vintage postcards, but this one certainly takes the cake - “Postmaster

December keeps rolling, and besides dealing with lots of snow, it’s a month of parties and programs, Christmas lights, baking and a host of other fun things to do. It’s also a month of making memories with family and friends. While the Oceana Echo and White Lake Mirror keep busy reporting a vast array of community

of Riga, Michigan. Sure hope you can read my handwriting!”

And so begins the detective work. After having the entire Echo office look over the postcard and agree “yeah that handwriting is terrible,” we were able to figure out who Emerson likely is. Emerson Bunting was born in 1878 in Fowler, Michigan, but spent most of his life in Walkerville, where he died in 1963. He had several jobs throughout his life, the most notable being running the “Walkerville News” with his brother Oliver. He also served as Walkerville’s postmaster from 1915 to 1934. It was a

job he enjoyed so thoroughly that he attended conferences for postal workers across the state. It was at one of these conventions that he met Miss Anna Martha Seeburger, the postmistress of none other than Riga, Michigan - a small township in Lenawee County, on the border with Ohio. The two married in 1924, with Anna coming to live and work in Walkerville until her death in 1931.

So there is the connection of Emerson, postmaster and newspaper extraordinaire, to Riga. But the question remains, who is he writing to?

Well, the running theory I had was that the recipient

news, we also enjoy sharing about your family as well.

In preparation for our Dec. 19 and 26 issues, we invite all Echo and Mirror readers to share some of their holiday memories with us. Or if you’d rather, feel free to share any goals or hopes you have for the New Year! With almost 14,500 households receiving our paper on

scanning the QR code at right or by sending a check made

P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436.

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

was a postal worker for Riga, Michigan - a friend of Anna’s perhaps. So as long as Riga’s postmaster got the card, he’d get it to the right person, perhaps even himself.

I did my due diligence of scanning the 1930 Census of Riga, Michigan, and found two postal carriers - Juan A Crist and Arthur Ingold. For a moment, I thought perhaps Juan was the recipient, realizing that the letter I believed to be an “S” could easily be a “J,” but the last names are not even close to matching. I checked the records for the surrounding townships and municipalities as well - no dice. For as much as I like playing detective, I do draw the line on scouring the 1930 census for all of Lenawee County (or all of Ohio) for anyone with an “Sh” surname. Maybe Emerson miswrote Juan’s last name, maybe the postmaster of Riga moved before the 1930 census, or maybe a reader can decipher the name with better success.

For now, all I can extrapolate from this brief message is that Emerson Bunting was cold and tired and couldn’t phone home. So in his honor, I’m wishing everyone safe travels this holiday season!

a weekly basis, there’s plenty, we’re sure! Please email Sharon Hallack at sharon@oceanaecho by Monday, Dec. 15. You don’t need to be a writer to share! Just send us a few details, and we can reach out for clarification if needed! We can’t wait to hear from you and will try to print as many memories as we can!

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.

TUES: Free Soup Dinner, Hart Christian Fellowship, 5-7 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.

5th SAT: Free Community Breakfast, Shelby UCC, 8-10 a.m.

The Ladder Community Center:

Dec. 13 - Christmas Worship (Contemp.), 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 15-19 - Games & Gifts, see website for details

Dec. 19 - Live Music by the Jammers, 10 a.m. to noon

Dec. 23 - Gift Exchange, 9:30 a.m. (sign up by 12/19)

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.

Dec. 16 & 30 - Knitting Group, 10 a.m. to noon

MON: Women’s Bible Study, 1-2 p.m.,

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

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

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

D ecember

Dec. 12 - “Be the Light” Night Hike with Oceana Conservation District, Charles Mears State Park, Pentwater, 5-6:30 p.m.

Dec. 12 - “Behold the Lamb of God”, FBC of Hart, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 13 - Trinity Lutheran Church, Cookie Sale, New Era, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Dec. 13 - Walkerville Village Christmas Parade, Downtown, 10 a.m.

Dec. 13 - Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony, Pentwater Township Cemetery, 12 p.m.

Dec. 13 - “Behold the Lamb of God”, Rothbury Community Church, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 15 - Afterschool Movie, Hesperia Community Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

Dec. 15 - “Last Holiday” Movie for Grownups (PG-13), sponsored by HAPL, Hart Community Center, 4 p.m.

Dec. 15 - Santa Visits, Hart Area Public Library, 6 p.m.

Dec. 16 - Christmas Bird Count, sponsored by Oceana Conservation District, at various county locations, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Dec. 16 - Board Meeting, Hesperia Community Library, 4:30-6 p.m.

Dec. 18 - Matinee Movie, Hesperia Community Library, 1-3:30 p.m.

Dec. 18 - Crafty Crew, sponsored by HAPL, Hart Community Center, 4 p.m.

Dec. 18 - Family Fun Night, Hesperia Community Library, 6-7 p.m.

Dec. 19 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry, Shelby Elementary, 5 p.m.

Dec. 19 - “North Pole’s Got Talent”, HMS production, Hart Schools Auditorium, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 - “North Pole’s Got Talent”, HMS production, Hart Schools Auditorium, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Dec. 21 - Candlelight Vigil, New Era Christian Reformed Church, 6 p.m.

Dec. 23 - Ugly Sweater Day, Shelby Area District Library, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

HMS to perform ‘North Pole’s Got Talent’ Dec. 19 & 20

The Hart Middle School 5th-8th grade performance of “North Pole’s Got Talent,” by Lavinia Roberts will take place Friday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Hart Public Schools Auditorium. The show, directed by Suzanne VanderZanden and choreographed by McKenna VanderZanden, features 36 different cast members and seven crew members.

This festive production about a holiday talent show that takes place at the North Pole stars co-hosts Holly and Mistletoe Merryman as they introduce a variety of fun-loving acts to the Pole’s favorite judges, Ruby, the red-lipped reindeer, Mrs. Claus, and the jolly old man himself, Santa Claus! Prepare to see Santa’s elves and reindeer compete for the win and a mysterious appearance by Jack Frost and the Snow Queen herself, in addition to some other fun-loving gingerbread friends that join in to award the winners.

Tickets are on sale now at https://hartdramaclubs.ludus.com/200508941 or by scanning the QR code. Tickets are $5 for students and $8 for adults.

Holiday light displays brighten up December’s darker days

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

There’s something magical about light displays around Christmas time. Here in Michigan, December is the darkest month of the year. Taking in a light display or two this holiday season might help to take your mind off the lack of daylight and brighten your spirit.

Before heading out, be mindful of the following light display viewing suggestions. Remember, light displays are located on both public and private property. Please be respectful and treat each venue as if it were your own. Drive with caution for both drive-through and drive-by displays. No time is a good time for a fender bender, or worse, but especially not at Christmas. It is also probably a good idea to stay in your vehicle for drive-by displays. Check any available social media pages before heading out to be sure displays are operating as planned. Make your own plans for inclement weather. Light display hosts should not be depended upon to assist cars that get stuck. Take only pictures and leave nothing behind (trash, pet waste, etc.) Lastly, “light up” someone else’s holiday and consider inviting a friend or neighbor who needs an extra dose of Christmas cheer this year to join you! Here are a few local favorites:

Deater Family Light Display, 6344 E.Garfield Rd., Hesperia: this “drive-in” light display has an area for parking where viewers can enjoy this musical and visual feast from inside their cars. Shows run every night during the holidays, and there is a lighted sign directing cars into the proper driveway. The show, made up of thousands of lights set to music, changes every year. Each presentation begins at the top of every hour and

runs for 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute intermission to allow for exiting and entering vehicles. Although you don’t have to leave, you can stay and watch it twice! The Deaters welcome one and all, as well as being tagged in any photos visitors may take.

Pentwater Pixels, 863 Park St., Pentwater: another fun light show set to music is located near the Pentwater School and across the street from the Pentwater Artisan Center. According to the Pentwater Pixels Facebook page, they are offering two different show types this year! At the top of every hour (starting at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m.) attendees can enjoy their “Christmas Holiday Fun” light show, and at the bottom of every hour (6:30, 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.) enjoy a slower, but powerful, Christian-focused “Traditional Christmas” show. Both shows run approximately 24 minutes and follow this schedule every night through New Year’s Eve.

Wambaugh’s Hill, 684 E. Polk Rd., Elbridge Township: one of the longest-running drive-by light displays in the area seems to get bigger and better every year. It is located on what the locals refer to as “Wambaugh’s Hill,” so be prepared for driving up or down a very steep hill for viewing. Continue a mile east on Polk Road and enjoy yet another fun light display on the north side of the road.

Mike and Heather Wambaugh’s, 4051 N. 140th Ave., Elbridge: son and daughter-in-law of Wambaugh’s Hill display have continued the family tradition on their own farm. Enjoy this drive-through display every night from 6-10 p.m. through Jan. 4, 2026.

Along with private displays, visit any one of Oceana County’s municipalities to enjoy a variety of specially decorated light displays and Christmas trees.

Downtown Hart features its annual festive light dis-

play at the four-way stop by the fairgrounds, and new this year is a forest of conical trees featuring moving LED lights located on the Oceana County courthouse lawn. A City of Hart business decorating contest is going on now until Dec. 16 and will feature public voting from Dec. 17-27.

Hesperia Village Park, located at the four-way stop, is lit up for the season and beckons visitors to drive by or stop in for a holiday stroll. While the village does not maintain the park’s sidewalks after its annual tree-lighting, if visitors come prepared to walk through snow, they can enjoy a number of wonderful displays, including a lit-up gingerbread house, gazebos, a train and Santa’s sleigh, among others.

Pentwater Village welcomes visitors with decorated gazebos at the north and south ends of town. Besides decorated light poles and businesses downtown, the Village Green, Village Marina and fish cleaning stations are all decked out as well.

The villages of New Era, Shelby and Walkerville are showcasing all the best their municipality has to offer, from parks and downtowns to personal and business holiday lights and decorations. One doesn’t have to travel far to take in their community’s creativity. If you are lucky enough to be out and about on a snowy evening, even regular streetlights and a light snowfall can turn the ordinary into a picture postcard.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make the dark days of December a little brighter. For those looking for light display adventures outside of Oceana County, visit https://mymichiganbeach.com/michigan-light-displays/ for a listing of drive-through and walk-through light shows going on now across the entire state.

Hoeing ‘In the Garden’ Part 13: Eradicating the Clods of Fear and Doubt

By Janet Van Gunst Hasselbring The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

“Fear and doubt are the cruelest things that can beset us.” (Fox)

My parents experienced many painful and harsh situations on their farm (present-day Country Dairy). Yet how they learned to confront and elude fear and doubt with trust and belief is a testimony to what God can do in the lives of those who are obedient to Him — those intent on doing His will:

1. Combating Fear through Tithing - “And all the tithe of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s; it is holy unto Him." (Leviticus 27:30)

It was through obeying the scriptural mandate to tithe that

Henry and Ellen learned trust, to the point that the greater their need for life’s necessities (and in a family with seven children, there were many!), the greater was their need to tithe – to give back to God a portion of their earnings.

Every month, after Henry received his share of the farm’s profits from his father, Andrew, he and Ellen put one-tenth of the money into a tithing jar that sat prominently on a shelf of the hutch in the dining room. (Echo, Nov. 28)

Eking out a living on a small farm was difficult at best. One

could understand if, after a disappointing month (a windstorm ruining the cherry crop or a sick cow forcing the day’s output to be dumped), my parents decided to “pass” on tithing or parted with the monies grudgingly. However, here lies the mystery of their spiritual growth: to tithe grudgingly or from a sense of duty is to give from a sense of fear. To tithe gladly with the absolute assurance that everything comes from God and that He will supply our needs is to give from a sense of trust. God sees the heart. It is the motivation for giving, not the giving itself, that pleases Him. The tithing jar was concrete proof of their trust - it symbolized the dispelling of fear.

2. Combating Doubt through Giving Thanks – “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed

about by the wind.” (James 1:6)

The key to Henry and Ellen’s faith was this: they believed in order to understand, rather than having to understand in order to believe.

If they had needed to understand the challenges they faced - losing a cherry crop, dumping spoiled milk, seeds washed away by a downpour, losing a beloved daughter, becoming estranged from a son damaged by war — in order to believe, their faith would never have taken root.

Their faith was not dependent on their circumstances; it helped them deal with their circumstances.

Here is another mystery of spiritual life: “Give thanks to God regardless of your feelings, and He will give you Joy regardless of your circumstances”("Jesus Calling," Young). Such faith calls for blind obedience to His command to “give

thanks for everything.”

To unbelievers or agnostics, needing to understand before they can believe, giving thanks in the face of adversity seems irrational, impossible, a denial of the reality that life entails suffering. However, my parents proved that lives filled with praise and thanksgiving are invariably blessed, even though the difficulties they face remain.

As their focus shifted from “earning and deserving to believing and receiving,” giving thanks and praising God for His goodness opened the way for His riches to flow - not physical riches necessarily, but spiritual riches with eternal value and reward.

Thankfulness caused the “scales” to fall from their eyes, allowing them to see more and more of God’s heavenly riches.

Furthermore, prayers of thanksgiving provided a solid foundation for their daily conversations with their Lord – conversations which must have warmed His heart and prompted these words:

“My dear ones, continue to bring Me the sacrifice of gratitude and see how much I bless you.”*

Fear and doubt, begone!

For more information on the memoir, In the Garden, visit the author at janethasselbring23@ gmail.com

Please call 231-893-3085 for more information stjamescatholicparish.org Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church

White Lake UMC

3000 Winston Road Rothbury, MI 49452

Mass Times: Sunday - 8:30 a.m.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Jeanette May Greiner

Decmeber 2, 1931 ~ December 8, 2025

Jeanette May Greiner, 94, of Hart, passed away Monday, December 8, 2025, at her home. She was born December 2, 1931, in Whitehall, the daughter of Fredrick and Violet (Christensen) Kassner.

Jeanette married Eugene Martin Greiner on September 10, 1955, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hart. They faithfully attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, and Jeanette was a member of the Altar Society.

Jeanette had many interests in life, from crafts to fun, including quilting, reading, bowling, golfing and playing bingo. Jeanette’s family was most important, though; over 94 years she was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend.

Jeanette is survived by: her loving husband of 70 years, Eugene Greiner; children, Greg (Deb) Greiner, Genia (Tony) Moses, Kevin (Ana) Greiner, Mark Greiner, Annette (Bill) Thompson and Tracy Greiner; grandchildren, Shaun (Katelyn) Greiner, Melissa Greiner, Eric Greiner, Steve (Jen) Greiner, Felicia Moses, Erica Moses, Tessie (Trey) McClenahan, Holly (Adam) Hallman, Joseph Greiner, Calvin Greiner, David Greiner, Damon (Theresa) Stafford, Shane Tanner, Garret Tanner, Hunter (Andena) Tanner and Gage Tanner; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jordyn, Dez, and Theo Greiner, Blake and Ellie Cross, Savannah McClenahan, Olive and Parker Hallman, Aurora Greiner and Carson Stafford.

Jeanette was preceded in death by: her parents, Fredrick and Violet Kassner; son, Geoffrey Greiner; and siblings, Herb Kassner, Charlie Kassner, Dorothy Murphy, Harold Kassner, and twin Jeanne Putman.

In accordance with Jeanette’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in spring of 2026.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2380 W. Jackson Rd., Hart, MI 49420, or the Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420.

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

Lowell LeRoy Kludy

December 29, 1935 ~ December 7, 2025

Lowell LeRoy Kludy, 89, of Shelby, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025. He was born December 29, 1935, in Shelby, the son of Clyde and Sara (Andrews) Kludy.

Lowell was married to Patty for 65 years and shared many great adventures together, including 15 years in Texas for the winter months. He served in the United States Air Force. He worked at Verplanks Trucking for many years, and after retiring, he helped on the family farm. He loved his tractors and taking rides out to the lakeshore.

Lowell is survived by: his children, Judy (Bill) Keeler, Valerie (Dave) Sayers, Tammy (Mike) O’Leary, and Kim berly (Ray) McKinnon; grandchildren: Joni (Jason) Miller, Sara (Denny) Smith, Joshua (Aimee) Slocum, Samantha (John) Sullivan, Amber McCreight, David (Carly) Sayers, Cody (Crystal) McKinnon, Rachel (Rick) Stevenson and Remington (Cameron) McKinnon; 26 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; sisters, Carol Kludy, Beverly Kludy and April Welch; brothers, Louis Kludy and Dan Kludy; brother-in-law, Larry Ingalls; and sisterin-law, Sue Ingalls.

Lowell was preceded in death by: his parents, Clyde and Sara; wife, Patricia (Ingalls); son, Scott; brothers, John, Don, Roger and Ken Kludy; sisters; Mary Lambert and Mildred Bouman.

Funeral services will be conducted at noon, Friday, December 12, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Av., Shelby, Michigan 49455, with Pastor Mike Termer officiating. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of services, Friday, December 12, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. www.harrisfhome.com

Obituary Information:

We, at The Oceana Echo, offer our deepest condolences for your loss and are here to help you tell others about your loved one’s life and the plans you have made to honor, celebrate and remember them. If you would like to place an obituary with us, please tell your arrangement specialist or email us at theoceanaecho@gmail.com.

Robert ‘Bob’ Gordon McDonnell

March 28, 1954 ~ December 7, 2025

Robert “Bob” Gordon McDonnell, Jr., 71, of Hesperia, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025, at his home. He was born March 28, 1954, in Fremont, the son of Robert Sr. and Marlene (Anderson) McDonnell.

Bob grew up in Hesperia and enjoyed helping his dad on the family farm. He loved to keep busy, whether it was working on cars or riding his Harley around the backroads of West Michigan. Music was also one of Bob’s passions; he played bass in the cover band Brimstone at many local bars back in the day, and in more recent years he enjoyed classic rock and roll and country.

Bob is survived by: his children, Robert (Heather) McDonnell-Douglas and Wesley (Gina) Douglas; sister, Cathy (Tony) Herin; and good friend, Jim Craner.

Bob was preceded in death by: his parents, Robert Sr. and Marlene McDonnell; and brothers, David McDonnell and Dean McDonnell.

In accordance with Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.

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

DNR announces support for park upgrades in 11 counties in Michigan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced today 13 community recreation facilities projects recommended for a combined $11.9 million in Land and Water Conservation Fund grants.

“This year, the Land and Water Conservation Fund is directing just under $12 million in federal funds through the state of Michigan to local park improvements, acquisitions and development,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. “Pathways, boardwalks, playgrounds, pools and more will be improved with this year’s Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, providing a valuable injection of funds into local communities for important recreation-related projects.”

The projects recommended for funding are in Barry, Benzie, Berrien, Houghton, Kalamazoo, Kent, Macomb, Oakland, Oceana, Van Buren, and Wayne counties. That funding will support replacing dilapidated play structures, restroom buildings, developing multi-use sport courts, outdoor community pool and much more.

The 2025 Land and Water Conservation Fund recommendations are:

• Shelby Township (Oceana County): Shelby Community Pool, $500,000.

• Village of Lawerence (Van Buren County): Lawrence Village Park Playground Improvements, $301,200.

• City of Kalamazoo (Kalamazoo County): Milham Park Improvements, $500,000.

• St. Joseph Charter Township (Berrien County): Eaton Park Restroom and Park Improvements, $359,000.

• City of Farmington Hills (Oakland County): Heritage Park Playground and Parking, $500,000.

• City of Ferndale (Oakland County): Martin Road Park Playground Replacement, $150,000.

• City of East Grand Rapids (Kent County): Waterfront Park Improvement Project Phase 2, $500,000.

• Village of Elberta (Benzie County): Terminus Park Acquisition, $5,347,600.

• Macomb Township (Macomb County): Lucido River Park Pathway and Boardwalk Project, $500,000.

• White Lake Township (Oakland County): Stanley Park Improvements, $500,000.

• City of Dearborn (Wayne County): Splash Pad at Camp Dearborn,

$500,000.

• DNR Parks and Recreation Division (Bay County): Bay City State Park Campground Utilities Upgrades, $1,250,000.

• DNR Parks and Recreation Division (Houghton): Houghton Douglass Falls Phase 2 Development, $1,000,000. Projects were scored and selected from a field of 11 grant applications from local units of government and two applications from the DNR totaling $11,907,800. All eligible proposed projects received a site visit from DNR Grants Management staff, and all applications were evaluated, scored and ranked.

Program background

Funds are available to states through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund program for land acquisition and development of outdoor recreation facilities.

The DNR uses Land and Water Conservation Fund dollars to help develop public outdoor recreation facilities to give people better, broader access to quality public outdoor recreation opportunities. The program supports Native American tribes, villages, cities, townships and counties and divisions within the DNR.

Following federal appropriation, LWCF funds are apportioned to the states each fiscal year, and then, the state’s project recommendations are sent to the National Park Service for approval.

Application information

Eligible applicants include any unit of government, such as Native American tribes, school districts or any combination of units with the legal authority to provide recreation. Applicants can seek funding for a variety of projects, including development of and improvements to playgrounds, trails and walkways, skate parks, boat launches, picnic areas, sports fields and campgrounds, in addition to improved access for users of all abilities beyond Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.

Application materials and information for LWCF grants will be available early in 2026 at Michigan.gov/LWCFGrants. Applications for the 2026 funding cycle are due April 1.

The Oceana Echo published in its Dec. 5 edition that New Hope Community Church in Shelby has a turkey giveaway in November and a ham giveaway in December. Food pantry director Sharita Prowant informed the paper that this is not correct. There is an evening pantry there during those months, but they do not give away turkeys and hams. The Oceana Echo apologizes for the error.

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• On Dec. 15, 1945, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, in his capacity as Supreme Commander of Allied Powers in the Pacific, ended the role of Shintoism as Japan’s established religion. Shintoism included the belief that the emperor was divine.

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STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20251201

FOR RELEASE DEC. 1, 2025

By Lucie Winborne

• On Dec. 16, 1998, President Bill Clinton announced his order of air strikes against Iraq, due to the country’s refusal to cooperate with U.N. weapons inspectors. Key members of Congress did not support the decision, accusing Clinton of using the strikes to direct attention away from his impeachment proceedings.

• On Dec. 17, 2003, “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King,” the final film in the trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novels, debuted in theaters. A tremendous hit, it won 11 Academy Awards, and the trilogy became one of the highest-grossing franchises in cinema history.

• On Dec. 18, 1961, the Tokens’ version of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” became not just a No. 1 song, but a classic — one of the most covered and most successful pop songs ever recorded. Sadly, a sequence of business arrangements that made millions of dollars for a handful of prominent U.S. music publishers yielded just a $1,000 personal check from folksinger Pete Seeger to Solomon Linda, a South African performer who composed the tune.

• On Dec. 19, 1986, Michael Sergio, an actor and Mets fan who parachuted into Game Six of the 1986 World Series at New York’s Shea Stadium, was fined $500 and sentenced to 100 hours of community service for touching down on the infield with a “Let’s Go Mets” banner to the cheering support of more than 55,000 spectators.

• On Dec. 20, 1880, a section of Broadway between Union Square and Madison Square was illuminated by Brush arc lamps, becoming one of the first electrically lighted streets in America and earning the nickname “The Great White Way.”

On Dec. 21, 1913, the first modern crossword puzzle was published in the New York World, part of a set of what the paper called “mental exercises.” Clues included “sunk in mud,” “the fibre of the gomuti palm,” and “such and nothing more.”

ANIMAL SHELTER

Say “hello” to Jenny. Jenny is the kind of cat who brings a sense of calm the moment she enters the room. With her soft gray coat and warm, soulful eyes, she’s as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.

At 2 years old, Jenny has perfected the art of sweetness. She’s gentle, affectionate and loves quiet moments spent near her favorite people. Whether she’s curled up on a cozy blanket, softly purring or giving you a slow blink to show her trust, Jenny’s presence feels like a warm hug.

She’s not demanding—just grateful for kindness, a soft touch and a safe place to call her own. Jenny would make a wonderful companion for anyone looking for a loving, mellow and endlessly sweet kitty.

If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a truly special girl, Jenny would love to be your new best friend. Jenny 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 Jenny

• If you are having trouble with your car’s battery, follow this tip from B.D. of Virginia: “Disconnect battery terminals and clean with a wire brush. Reconnect and smear with petroleum jelly. The jelly will prevent corrosion and help keep the battery cranking all winter.”

• Here’s a reminder from J.E. of Colorado: “Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen — especially if you live in a snowy climate. Remember that sunlight reflects off white snow and it intensifies the effect. Lather up, people. If you get one that is moisturizing, it’ll soothe dry skin as well.”

• “When doing my holiday shopping, I carry a quart-size zip-lock baggie in my purse. I put all receipts in it, and I ask for multiple gift receipts to be put in the bag with the merchandise. I can keep it all together until after the holidays, so I always have a receipt handy if something needs to be returned or exchanged.” — C.L. in Missouri

• “I keep a cookie sheet by the door to hold muddy shoes and boots. No more moose tracks through the house!” — R.S. in New York

• “If you have extra tasks to do for visiting company or holiday parties, marshal the family. I have three school-age kids, and I write out chores on slips of paper for them to stick in their pockets. If I don’t have to remind them to get chores done, there’s an extra allowance in it for them.” — H.A. in California

• When unpacking decorations, make note of items that will need to be replaced after this season. When everything goes on sale, you can buy for next year at great prices!

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

By Lucie Winborne

• America’s first dentist, John Baker, trained Paul Revere to be a dentist.

• A German word for nightmare is “alptraum,” or “elf dream.” In German folklore, elves were dangerous figures who could control dreams and create nightmares.

• Canadians eat more macaroni and cheese than any other nation in the world.

• No matter how badly fingerprints are damaged, they will still grow back in their original pattern.

• Eggnog originated from the medieval hot, milky ale-like drink known as a posset.

• The band name Imagine Dragons is an anagram. Lead singer Dan Reynolds described it as a “phrase that meant something to all of us,” but the group has yet to confirm what that is.

• Though dragonflies have six legs, they cannot walk.

• Ancient pagan cultures such as the Celts believed that benevolent, helpful spirits lived in trees. Knocking on tree trunks roused a spirit for protection, which led to the saying “knock on wood.”

• Sea otters have the thickest fur of any mammal, at 1 million hairs per square inch.

• The Muppet vampire Count von Count, from “Sesame Street,” was based on actual vampire myth. One way to supposedly deter the bloodsucking creatures is to throw seeds outside a door. Vampires are compelled to count the seeds, delaying them until morning.

• In 1951, Sir Hugh Beaver, the managing director of Guinness Brewery, got into a spat with someone over the world’s fastest game bird. When the pair couldn’t locate an answer in a book, Beaver had the idea of writing one that would solve pub arguments.

• The sun weighs 2,000 million million million million tons.

***

Oceana County

County Board of Commissioners extend gesture of gratitude to courthouse employees with day after Christmas off

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners also received a presentation from West Shore Community College President Scott Ward on the newest addition to downtown Hart, the WSCC Community Center and Satellite Facility, at their Dec. 4 meeting.

With construction expected to start in January next year and opening as early as the 2026 academic year, it already boasts nonprofit partners such as Michigan Works!, Mid Michigan Community Action, and Ludington Food Club, with local Hart business Stella’s planning to open a walk-in and drive-thru location. Portions of the 25,000-square-foot facility housed in the old Gale’s IGA grocery store will be dedicated to a community food bank, office suite, community space, and two classrooms, which will be utilized by WSCC.

The construction of the facility is estimated to cost $6 million and is funded through a $1 million grant awarded by the State of Michigan, $2.5 million from outside funding sources, with the remaining half covered by the college. The WSCC classrooms will have flexible lab capabilities to allow a variety of hands-on classes to be held in the space, as well as computer stations. Some courses are already considered for the space include EMS and EMT training.

Ward describes the main barriers for the success of students attending community college as food, housing and

transportation. With the collaboration of Ludington Food Club for a community food bank and the addition of flexible classrooms to alleviate some travel to Mason County, Ward believes that two of those three concerns are addressed by the new facility. Another hope for the facility is that it will attract developers to further improve the plaza, a hope echoed by the commissioners, with Chairman Robert Walker saying, “I can’t think of a better neighbor to develop around than a community college.”

facilities has been hired. The bid for Hallack’s snow removal was decided by a unanimous vote of all four present commissioners, with Craig Hardy’s absence excused by the chair.

holiday bonuses, so this is the least they can do.

Notice will be given in print that the courthouse will be closed on December 26, 2025.

Please join us December 20th for our Holiday Open House 11am – 2 pm

Please join us on December 16 for our Holiday Open House 11am – 2 pm

Includes Refreshments, Gift Cards, Vendor Giveaways, including RC vehicles, bike stands & much more! Get your favorite Duner the gifts they really want!

Please join us on December 16 for our Holiday Open House 11am 2 pm

Following the WSCC presentation, the commissioners approved of the bid from Hallack Contracting for snow removal, as they were the only one to submit a quote. Awarding a contract for lawn maintenance will be tabled until a new maintenance coordinator for county

Refreshments, Vendor Giveaways, Raffles (RC vehicle, bike stand & much more), Gift Cards! Get your favorite Duner the gifts they really want!

DuneLanD Off-ROaD CenteR, InC. 1951 n. 24th ave, MeaRs, MI

DuneLand Off-Road Center, Inc. 1951 N. 24th Ave, Mears, MI

Also approved unanimously was the decision to close the courthouse on Dec. 26, the Friday following this year’s Christmas. This item was brought to the board by Joel McCormick as a “gesture of our gratitude for the exceptional dedication and hard work shown by our employees.” This decision would give staff a four-day weekend holiday, which Administrator Tracy Byard assured the board her office would greatly appreciate, especially as other departments in the courthouse have the day off anyway. Walker noted that due to governmental restrictions, the board cannot award staff with

DuneLand Off-Road Center, Inc. 1951 N. 24th Ave, Mears, MI

WEARE TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Weare Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Monday December 15, 2025, at 6 pm. The meeting will be held at the MSU AgBioResearch West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center 5185 N. Oceana Drive, Hart Michigan.

The purpose of this meeting is to consider adopting the Solar Ordinance for Weare Township. The public is urged to attend.

There will be copies of the Solar Ordinance available that can be downloaded off the Weare Township webpage or picked up on Sunday December 7th and 14th at the Weare Township Hall 6506 N. Oceana Drive Hart, Mi from 12:30 to 3:30pm. There will also be a few copies available at the meeting.

You can send in your questions or comments to wearedptyclerk@gmail.com if you are unable to attend.

Please contact the Township Clerk if you need any special accommodation prior to the meeting. We hope to see you there.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION

SHELBY TOWNSHIP, OCEANA COUNTY, MICHIGAN

ORDINANCE #12042025-1 TO REPEAL AND REPLACE AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED “SHELBY COMMUNITY ZONING ORDINANCE” WHICH WAS ADOPTED IN MARCH 2006, AS AMENDED, TO MAINTAIN THE DOCUMENT AND ADOPT SPECIFIC LANGUAGE IN 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, AND 2016.

THE TOWNSHIP OF SHELBY ORDAINS:

At a Regular Township Board meeting held on Thursday December 4, 2025, for Shelby Township, the Township Board adopted Ordinance #12042025-1, the Shelby Community Zoning Ordinance of 2006, shall be amended to repeal and replace the Zoning Ordinance as follows: Chapters 1-20 will replace the existing text.

All other ordinances and parts of ordinance, or amendments thereto, of Shelby Township in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.

This ordinance shall take effect 7 days after its publication, or a summary thereof, in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township.

A copy of this Ordinance in its entirety is available at the Township Hall, 204 N Michigan Ave., Shelby MI 49455 during business hours, or on our website Shelbytownshipoceana.com

This ordinance is effective 7 days from the date of this publication.

Cathy Anderson, Clerk

BENONA TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting

November 24, 2025

The regular meeting of November 24, 2025 was called to order at 7:00 PM with all Board members present and 2 visitors present. The agenda was approved as submitted. The minutes of the regular meeting of October 27, 2025 were approved. Action was taken on the following:

• The road work estimate for 48th Ave. north of Buchanan Rd. was approved.

• Wolverine Franchise Ordinance adopted.

• Bills approved for payment, with additions. Meeting adjourned at 8:09 PM.

A copy of the complete minutes is available from the Clerk at Benona Township Hall or on the township website (www. benonatownship.org).

- Margie Shaw, Clerk

SPORTS Tigers look ready to meet the moment

Burmeister posts 28 points, Shelby rolls past Whitehall to open season of high hopes

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — Shelby entered this season with sky-high expectations and a young, yet experienced roster. Monday night showed a Tiger team that’s ready to meet those expectations head-on, as they dominated the second and third quarters of a 46-26 season-opening win over Whitehall.

Maybe the best sign for Shelby - and the scariest for opponents - was sophomore Jayna Burmeister showing off her three-point stroke. Burmeister, already an all-conference player last year, drilled six treys on her way to a game-high 28 points.

“If she can hit threes on the outside, she can dribble around pretty much anyone,” Shelby coach Sarah Wolting said. “Against man-to-man, she comes up and hits big jumpers, or is always ready for her shot, to be able to work the inside or post up. It’s just hard to find someone who can guard her, because she’s a decent-sized girl that can hit the outside shot and post up and jump well. She’s worked a lot in the offseason, and it showed tonight.”

The Tigers opened the game attacking Whitehall in the press, just as they did a season ago when the teams played each other in their first game. This time, Whitehall was able to ward it off for the most part, and the game remained close

into the second quarter.

That’s when Burmeister turned on her long-distance shooting, hitting two three-pointers in the second. Annabelle Stark knocked one down too, and the Tigers extended a three-point lead out to 10 by halftime, 24-14.

Burmeister said adding a consistent three-point shot to her game - and her teammates’ games as well - helps make the Tigers even more difficult to stop.

“If you hit a shot fake, then that drive is going to be there, or a shot fake and then a pass into our big. It just opens everything up,” Burmeister said.

The added threat makes life easier for Burmeister, as well as Stark and post player Kylie Brown, Wolting said. Defenses are forced to allow more space, which gives scorers more room to ma-

Shelby wins opener continued on page 11

Hart teams score big wins as rivalry awaits

Porter leads Pirates to big win over WMC Lakes champ Fremont; Hart faced Shelby Thursday

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Hart opened up its new season with a 54-40 victory over defending West Michigan Conference Lakes champion Fremont Monday, with Rilynn Porter leading the way.

Porter posted 20 points and nine rebounds to lead the Pirates in both categories. Hart racked up a lot of rebounds all night, as Reese Smith and Macey Riley each also had seven rebounds.

However, coach Ron Williamson said the team will have to do better on the defensive glass in order to have more success this season.

“The girls played well against Fremont, and being our first game, I can’t complain too much,” Williamson said. “It was a good test for our matchup (with Shelby) on Thursday. We will need to have better ball control, as we had too many turnovers and gave up too many offensive rebounds.”

Joselyn Flores had eight points and Smith added seven.

Hart rolls to another win, moves to 4-0 with Shelby game on deck

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Mason County Central provided Hart its biggest test of the season so far Tuesday night, but the Pirates were still able to come away with a 59-41 win.

Hart improved to 4-0 and 2-0 in West Michigan Conference Rivers action.

“The Hart Pirates were able to rely on their defense, unselfish play, and timely offense to create a gap in the scoreboard,” Hart coach Nick Bronsema said.

Caleb Ackley continued his remarkably efficient play of late, needing only 10 field goal attempts to score 18 points. He also

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

pulled in 11 rebounds, securing his third double-double of the season.

Jagger Lenon scored 17 points and Kolton Rockwell chipped in 15, with six rebounds and five steals. Bryce VanderKodde played with high energy off the bench, grabbing seven boards and swiping four steals.

•

Shelby’s Jayna Burmeister tries to power past a trio of Whitehall defenders during Monday’s season opener at Shelby. Burmeister drilled six three-pointers as part of a 28-point night in her team’s 46-26 win. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s Ava Lamberg makes her way towards the basket during Monday’s season opener against Whitehall. The Tigers earned a 46-26 win. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s Annabelle Stark gets in the face of Whitehall’s Peyton Schultz during Monday’s season-opening game at Shelby. The Tigers rolled, 46-26. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Hart’s Joselyn Flores (left) knocks the ball away from Fremont’s Taylor Johnson during Monday’s game at Hart. The Pirates’ Aurora Virtanen looks on. Hart picked up a 54-40 win. • Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

Hart’s Caleb Ackley gets in position for a rebound against Mason County Central defenders Tyler Norton (4) and Pierce Bladzik during Tuesday’s game at Hart. Ackley had 18 points and 11 rebounds in the team’s 59-41 win.

The Hart boys basketball team meets during a timeout Tuesday night.

Connie VanDerZanden/ Echo

Shelby starts strong, goes 4-1 at Optimist meet

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Shelby opened its season with a strong performance at Saturday’s Optimist Invitational at Mason County Central, earning a 4-1 record.

The Tigers edged Mason County Central 51-45, and earned lopsided wins over Traverse City St. Francis (69-11), Ludington (63-18) and Benzie Central (62-17). Shelby dropped a 53-30 decision to Allendale.

Shelby’s Brody Fessenden grabs Ludington’s Patrick Carsten during Saturday’s Mason County Central Optimist Invitational.

• Courtesy of Shelby Wrestling

Brody Fessenden, Jaylin Henderson and Cesar Cadena each posted 5-0 records. Fessenden pinned three of his opponents and also scored a technical fall, and Henderson posted two pins and a technical fall. Cadena had two pins and a close win by decision. Alden Beyer went 4-0, with three of those wins coming by pin.

Shelby wins

neuver.

“We’ve got to be able to make some outside shots to open things up for Jayna or Annie or Kylie inside, otherwise they’re going to just get beat up in there,” Wolting said. “It’s huge. That’s one thing that we said we needed to focus on last year, is being more of a threat on the outside.”

Burmeister proceeded to make three more treys in the third quarter, but just as importantly, Shelby called off the press after halftime, noting that Whitehall was handling it fairly well, and went to an aggressive manto-man defense in the half-court. The change paid immediate dividends, as Shelby recorded several turnovers that led to easy buckets on the other end. The Tigers built out a substantial lead and never looked back.

“We talked a little bit about what they were doing on offense (at halftime),” Wolting said. “Sometimes as a young team, they don’t always notice what (the opponents) are doing offensively. We made some adjustments in our half-court man-to-man that really helped. We just pointed out a few things that were happening. Our communication was a little bit better

in the second half as well.”

After enjoying an outstanding first year together and bringing back every major contributor this year, Shelby has no doubt heard a lot of chatter about how good it’s likely to be this year. However, Wolting said, and Monday’s result showed, that the team is able to deal with it because despite the players’ young ages, they show maturity on the court. Wolting attributes that in part to how many players (four of them) have coaches for parents; one of those, of course, is Wolting’s own daughter Jordan.

“It’s a group that doesn’t show a ton of emotion anyway,” Wolting said. “They hear (the talk), and they like it. They like that pressure. They’ve played long enough and beaten teams in middle school, so that pressure’s kind of been on, especially, the sophomore group anyway. I think they’re up for the challenge.”

Burmeister, in turn, credited Shelby’s coaches for helping keep the focus on the work.

“I feel like all of our coaches do a good job of letting us find our own ways and playing our game,” Burmeister said. “I feel like we do an amazing job of blocking out everybody else and playing how we want to play.”

With the Whitehall win in hand, focus turned to a massive clash against Hart, scheduled for Thursday. The game should serve as an excellent measuring stick for whether the rival Pirates’ recent reign over the

• Andy Roberts/Echo

West Michigan Conference Rivers will continue, or if it is now Shelby’s time.

“We are so excited, but we know it’s going to be tough,” Burmeister said. “We know they’re going to give us everything that they’ve got, so we’re ready for that. We’re prepared.”

County 4-H participants shine at Winter Beef Classic

By Jennifer Payne Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator

If you are looking to fill your freezer this coming year, look no further than the hardworking youth of Oceana County 4-H. Several of our members attended the Michigan Junior Livestock Society’s Winter Beef Classic, held Dec. 5–7 at the Farm Bureau Pavilion on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing. This statewide winter show brings together beef exhibitors from across Michigan to compete in showmanship, fitting and market classes while building important livestock skills.

We had a strong group of Oceana County 4-H members participate. While more youth attended the show, the following results were the ones reported to our office.

• Tori Alvesteffer earned first place with her steer in Ring B and second place in Ring A in the Hereford class.

• Kelsey Jorissen placed first in both Ring A and Ring B in the Shorthorn Plus class with her market steer.

• Miranda Merten placed fourth in both Ring A and Ring B in the Crossbred Market Class with her steer.

Our peewee exhibitors, Thomas Merten and Colton Alvesteffer, also brought great attitude and effort to the ring, showing confidence and enthusiasm as they begin their journey in beef projects.

The beef project is a year-long com-

mitment for our members. Most youth purchase their calves in August or September to begin the new project year. By December, when events like the Winter Beef Classic take place, these project calves typically weigh between 600-700 pounds. With daily care, proper nutrition and dedicated work, members continue to grow their steers throughout the season. By the time the Oceana County Fair arrives in August, project steers usually finish around 1,200-1,300 pounds.

Families who purchase a home grown market steer at the fair can expect an impressive return. A finished project steer often yields around 500 pounds of beef for the freezer or even more depending on the animal. Buyers

receive top quality locally raised beef while supporting youth who are gaining responsibility, leadership and agricultural knowledge through hands-on experience.

These talented showmen will continue to participate in upcoming local shows and will be back in the ring at the Oceana County Fair. Their beef projects will be available at the 4-H Market Livestock Sale where community support plays a vital role in helping our youth succeed.

Oceana County 4-H clubs are cur-

rently open for new members in both livestock and non livestock project areas. Now is also the time for youth in the community to sign up for market livestock projects if they are interested in joining the program for the upcoming season. Families can contact the MSU Extension office to learn more about enrollment and opportunities available this year.

I am proud of the dedication, sportsmanship and hard work our members demonstrated in East Lansing. It is an excellent start to the season.

Shelby’s Jaylin Henderson works toward a pin during his bout against Allendale’s Cohen Rollenhagen during Saturday’s Mason County Central Optimist Invitational. Henderson won all five of his bouts for the Tigers. • Courtesy of Shelby Wrestling

Shelby’s Michelle Peterson tries to pass out of a double team by Whitehall’s Peyton Schultz and Clare Westerlund during Monday’s game at Shelby.

Thomas Merten (right) and dad Ethan show off their black steer during the Dec. 5-7 Winter Beef Classic at Michigan State University. Several Oceana 4-H participants placed highly at the event. • Courtesy Photo

Kelsey Jorissen leads her white steer around the ring during the Dec. 5-7 Winter Beef Clasic at Michigan State University. Jorissen and her steer placed first in both Rings A and B. • Courtesy Photo

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Christmas parade celebrates the season

Whitehall council tweaks Colby promenade

Bathrooms, shade sail restored to project

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

ings reasons but reconsidered after discussing it during the preceding work session.

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council voted 6-1 to restore new bathrooms and the performance stage's shade sail to the West Colby Promenade project during Tuesday's regular meeting.

Scott Brown dissented on both votes, saying he's not in favor of the project in general and wouldn't approve any additions to it. The council last month removed the two items from the project for cost-sav-

The bathrooms were a topic of discussion during the work session, and the approving council members agreed the bathrooms' restoration made sense because the city's Department of Public Works felt the bathrooms were an important part of the project during its early stages of development, and because the original idea to redirect the money for those bathrooms to revamping the current ones at Goodrich Park was complicated by finding out that work would cost as much as the new bathrooms anyway.

The council unanimously approved a lot split at 1300 Delaney Drive, the first step, according to city

manager Dan Tavernier, in selling a 28-acre parcel to Erickson's, a Muskegon engineering company, for the purpose of building a warehouse.

The city sold six acres of a 10-acre parcel to the White Lake Fire Authority for $1 some years back so the WLFA could build its fire station on Delaney, but for reasons Tavernier has been unable to uncover, the 10-acre parcel was combined again sometime in 2022 and is technically under the WLFA's ownership. The lot split will return the four acres originally intended for city use back to the city; those four acres

Whitehall council

Whitehall council continued on page 2

WLCF distributes latest batch of grants

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The White Lake Community Fund enjoys giving away money to local nonprofits so much that Monday's announcement of the new batch of grant recipients included one - the White Lake Food Pantry, stationed at Lebanon Lutheran Church - which received money without applying for it.

Beth Pickard, an outgoing board member, said that thanks to local donors, the fund had more money available to give away this round than it had earmarked for applicants, so the pantry received a $10,000 grant. Doug Ogden, Lebanon Lutheran pastor, was on hand to accept the gift.

Nov. 21 issue of the Mirror.) Nearly all clients at the pantry are from the Whitehall, Montague or Holton school districts, Ogden added. Just over half of the pantry's ministry is food, with the rest being relationship building and referring clients to other local organizations that help people in need.

Ogden said about 150 families are served each week at the food pantry, and volunteers are active all the time to make sure the pantry's shelves are well stocked for local families. (There is a full story about the pantry in the

White Lake was not the only food pantry granted a gift from the fund this round, as the Trinity Lutheran Church Community Food Pantry, based out of Trinity Lutheran in New Era, also received a $10,000 donation, which will be used to buy food for the pantry. Lisa Payne, who oversees the pantry, said thanks to the generous rate at which the pantry is able to purchase food from Feeding America, the donation will enable the pantry to bring in about 62,000 pounds of food.

"We give out more food than any pantry in the West Michigan area," Payne said, noting that the pantry's bi-weekly distributions include 8-10 pounds of meat among many other

Six representatives of organizations that received White Lake Community Fund grant money in this round of distributions posed for a photo Monday at the

Community Library. From left are Lebanon Lutheran Church pastor

Lakeshore Keepers executive director Jack Greve, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp development coorinator Stacy Farmer, Samaritan Way executive director Joe Hekkema, Samaritans Way operations director Ethan Pope, and ACWL-Nuveen marketing and events coordinator Ian Martin. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Ian

Way operations director Ethan Pope, and ACWL-Nuveen marketing and events coordinator Ian Martin. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

products.

The Trinity Lutheran pantry serves families from all over, including the White Lake area but some families as far away as Spring Lake, Ravenna and

products. The Trinity Lutheran pantry serves families from all over, including the White Lake area but some families as far away as Spring Lake, Ravenna and

Bitely, Payne said. Another grant was given to Lake-

Six representatives of organizations that received White Lake Community Fund grant money in this round of distributions posed for a photo Monday at the White Lake Community Library. From left are Lebanon Lutheran Church pastor Doug Ogden, Lakeshore Keepers executive director Jack Greve, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp development coorinator Stacy Farmer, Samaritan Way executive director Joe Hekkema, Samaritans Way operations director Ethan Pope, and ACWL-Nuveen marketing and events coordinator

Martin. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The stars were out Saturday as part of the White Lake Christmas Parade, including classic characters like Buddy the Elf, Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang, and the Grinch. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

White Lake

Doug Ogden,

Montague school board approves budget amendment

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Montague Area Public Schools' director of business affairs Stacey Brown gave the board a budget update during Monday's regular meeting.

Brown noted that the budget has changed since it was originally passed over the summer without any districts knowing what state allocations would be to school districts. She said the projected revenue is $560,000 higher than budgeted, with projected expenses now set to be $230,000 higher.

The increased revenues are due to the per-pupil state allocations being higher than were budgeted - $10,050. However, Brown also emphasized the increased expenses, referring to the "shell game" of state school funding. The increased expenses are largely related to the costs of running some of the at-risk programs; the state allocated money to districts for those pro-

grams, but that doesn't account for the additional costs to run them.

Brown's update also referred to a slight increase in the athletics budget, which is due to the new soccer scoreboard's installation set to take place in the spring.

In the long term, the district will need to be mindful, Brown said, of the declining enrollment trends in the district; there were 1,407 students in the districts in 2020-21 and are 1,268 this year. There is also, she said, an ongoing issue of maintenance and repair work needing to be done in the district. This year the district's fund balance will be about $2.1 million, or 10.2% of the budget, which Brown said isn't sustainable in the long term, but efforts to cut expenses will be made.

One example of those cuts was presented Monday; the district had previously considered a resurfacing of the track, but after a consultant took a look at it and said it was not necessary right now, the idea was shelved for the mo-

WLCF grants

shore Keepers, in the amount of $6,975. The grant will enable the organization to update video equipment at the White River Light Station, which it oversees, to match the capabilities of the equipment at other Lakeshore Keepers stations. Executive director Jack Greve said about 5,000 visitors came to climb the tower at the White River station in its 150th anniversary season, and over four times more view the webcam that gives visitors a look at Lake Michigan from the lighthouse.

Ian Martin of the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center was on hand to accept a $6,500 grant, which will help the ACWL-Nuveen continue to put on its education classes. Martin said 70% of the classes funded by the grant are adult education classes, and that over 5,000 adults, many of them from the White Lake area, took classes at the center last year. He noted that with the state funding schedule not always reliable, he was thankful the WLCF ensured that those classes can continue to be funded.

An emotional Joe Hekkema accepted a $15,000 grant from the WLCF on behalf of Samaritan Way, which is being matched by the Community Foun-

dation of Muskegon County to total $30,000. The statewide nonprofit - it also operates in Greenville and Manistee - has an office on Apple Avenue in Muskegon, but the grant money, Hekkema said, will enable Samaritans Way to do more outreach in the White Lake area, including bringing a mobile unit here once or twice a week. He said the nonprofit's vision is to provide more services to rural communities such as the White Lake area. Hekkema said the nonprofit works to provide services to those who have experienced substance use disorder and addiction, and many of the employees, Hekkema included, have gone through those struggles themselves. Among the services Samaritan Way provides are peer recovery coaching, support groups, outpatient therapy and counseling, medication-assisted therapy, and help pursuing housing opportunities.

The Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp received $5,000 in funding to help provide scholarship money to area students who want to attend. Development coordinator Stacy Farmer shared that next summer will be the camp's 60th season. The camp hosts 12-day sessions that give students an

Whitehall council

are part of the 28 acres set to be sold to Erickson's, which Tavernier said will net the city about $140,000.

Two personnel changes were announced at the meeting as well. As the council discussed at previous meetings, DPW director Brian Armstrong is retiring this week, to be replaced by DPW foreman Don Bond. The council thanked Armstrong for his service to the city. In addition, deputy treasurer Brook Schiller, Tavernier said, has accepted a new position in Fruitport. Her duties will for the time being be consolidated within existing employees' responsibilities.

The council revisited a discussion broached by council member Jeff Holmstrom in October regarding the possibility of the city using the old Whitehall United Methodist Church Praise

ment.

The board did not make a decision on whether to opt out of state funding for mental health and safety grants. The funding has been a source of controversy in the state because the state budget includes a provision that those accepting the funding waive any privilege to protect public disclosure of information if there is a "mass casualty event." A group of about three dozen district superintendents filed suit against Michigan last month, stating the provision is unconstitutional. While the case is in progress, superintendent Jeffrey Johnson said districts have until the end of this month to opt out of the funds, which he said would amount to about $187,000 for the Montague district. He said a Dec. 19 hearing will create more clarity about the case.

Johnson added that the City of Montague has received a conditional commitment for future infrastructure money as part of the Safe Routes to School initiative. The funding would

opportunity to study several types of performing arts, including visual art, band, choir, creative writing, theater and more. Farmer said she recalls one student from last year's camps for which the money was a decisive factor in helping make it possible for the student to attend.

The final gift was a $6,000 gift which will fund a consultant from Detroit coming to town to give training in cybersecurity for students and parents. The classes will take place at NBC Middle School and will be open to stu-

enable the city to plan for future sidewalk improvements, and the construction would take place in spring 2028. Johnson said the district has plans in place to utilize the additional sidewalks if all goes according to plan.

The board gave unanimous approval to a deal with DNS Creations for an amount not to exceed $2,500. The graphic design company will provide services to several extracurricular groups in the district, including the varsity volleyball team and the Hope Squad. Board policy required approval for the deal because the company is owned by NBC teacher Dawn Bectel. The board discussed the importance of making sure everything was being handled in an aboveboard manner due to the potential conflict of interest.

Unanimous approval also came down to approving the 2024-25 single audit. The late approval was due to the federal government's late release of supplementary materials.

dents of both Montague and Whitehall schools. Montague marching band director Emma Greenwood was not present at the meeting, but WLCF board member Greg Hillebrand presented on her behalf. He joked that it was his last year overseeing grants and he was proud to have helped Greenwood double the money of her request.

The WLCF has been in operation since 1979, and gave away $144,590 in grants to local nonprofits this year alone.

Center. He hoped to install a committee to consider the issue, though there has not to date been movement on the idea. Brown suggested the city use Tax Increment Finance Authority funds to purchase the building if possible.

Council member Tanya Cabala discussed her concerns with PFAS (microplastics), a topic for which she's been leading a task force with Dr. Rick Rediske, a professor emeritus at Grand Valley State University. The task force is developing a pilot project to provide screening test kits for free to homeowners not within state-defined areas at risk for PFAS (those not within those areas currently have to pay for such kits). She said conducting more tests would give the state more information on whether PFAS is spreading.

Saturday, Dec. 13

Santa Claus will be in his Santa House outside Montague City Hall, 1-3 p.m.

Christmas Tree Festival @ White Lake UMC in Montague, 4-8 p.m. Featuring decorated trees from community organizations, visits with Santa, special music and food, and other activities for all ages.

Live trivia @ White Lake Eagles, 7 p.m.

Genna & Jesse perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m.

Ladies Night @ WaterDog Outfitters. Free event with food catered by Gnarly Heifer, drinks, and storewide discounts.

Medicine Men perform @ Red Rooster Tavern, 8 p.m.

Community Calendar

Velvet Mushroom Syndicate performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 14

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

Monday, Dec. 15

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

Singer/Songwriter Showcase @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m. The Monkbirds, Jeff, Nathan Barrett and The Sandbaggers set to perform.

Tuesday, Dec. 16

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

White Lake Community Library Writer's Group meets, 5:30 p.m. Bring a short writing sample (no more than three pages) to share for friendly feedback and inspiration.

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

Wednesday, Dec. 17

White Lake Knitting Club meets @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 1 p.m.

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

The Oat Bran Boys perform @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 18

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or explore available supplies in the classroom.

Original Dulcimer Players Club hosts its monthly acoustic jam @ VAC, 1-6 p.m. with a break at 3 p.m.

All are welcome, and any acoustic instruments can join in the jam.

Santa Claus is coming to town @ MADL Montague, 5:30 p.m. Join for a story, crafts and a visit with the big man himself.

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

Friday, Dec. 19

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!

Santa Claus will be in his Santa House outside Montague City Hall, 4-6 p.m.

Group Therapy performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Echoes of History: The Old Channel (Part 2)

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Part 1 of this story ran in the Dec. 5 issue of the White Lake Mirror.

In addition to the Ferry Mill at the “Mouth”, there were several other mills that had built up around White Lake in Montague and Whitehall after1854. All of these mills also used the Old Channel to take their products to waiting ships. Some of the mills might have had smaller boats that could navigate the original channel, without the use of “lighters.” No additional mills were erected until 1865 when the lumber business revived.

Rather than maintaining deep water the entire length of the Old Channel and improving the outlet, a new artificial channel was dug across the beach from White Lake to Lake Michigan. This allowed for the creation of a new

channel 16 feet deep, 200 feet wide, and about 1,950 feet long from Lake Michigan to White Lake.

While this was a great benefit to navigation, one cannot help but regret that the great natural beauty of the Old Channel had to be sacrificed in large measure.

In later years, as other historic pictures show, people in canoes and row boats were often seen enjoying a leisurely cruise up and down the Old Channel. This was especially true during the resort era, and also when a strong wind was blowing, making the big lake too rough to navigate. And there would often be fishermen seen casting their lines along the shoreline for the local panfish, as well.

The Old Channel is rarely used at all now, except maybe by a local beaver, but it remains as a reminder of what was.

Holiday fun for the whole family at the library

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

This holiday season, we have a festive lineup of activities for kids and families! There are three special events planned, plus two different drop-in activities for all ages.

Stop by anytime during open hours beginning Dec. 15 to decorate a paper stocking to hang by the fireplace. While you’re here, check out the candy cane scavenger hunt. Find them all and earn a sweet treat!

Monday, Dec. 22, at 1 p.m. we’ll be hosting a Mario Kart tournament. Space is limited and registration is required at this popular event for kids ages 8 and up. Tuesday, Dec. 23, join us for a special open play day from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.. The meeting room will be set up for kids and families to play together using library toys and equipment..

Last but not least, be sure to join us

Tuesday, Dec. 30, as we ring in the New Year early at our fun and family-friendly New Year’s Noon Party beginning at 11:30 a.m. Enjoy games, crafts, music, and a festive atmosphere as we count down to 12 p.m. At the stroke of noon, we’ll celebrate with a balloon drop— it’s the perfect way to kick off a year of fun, reading, and adventure!

For more information about any of these events, or to register for the Mario Kart tournament, visit wlclib.org/ calendar or give us a call at 231-8949531.

FUN FACT: Mario Kart 8 was the first Mario game with animated mustaches. Mario has always had a mustache, along with the red hat, white gloves, blue overalls, and lovable Italian accent. However, it wasn't until Mario Kart 8 that mustaches were given some animations. No longer just static blobs on their faces, Mario and Luigi's mustaches now blow gracefully in the wind as they speed through airports and along rainbow bridges.

New Year, New Hours!

We heard you - you wanted more open hours, and we are making it happen! Beginning Jan. 5, the library will open at 9 a.m. instead of 10 a.m. each day. That’s an extra hour every day for you to browse, study, read by

the fireplace, use the business center, or play in the Children’s Corner. We hope these expanded hours will make it more convenient for people to take advantage of all the library has to offer, as well as addressing our strategic plan goals and objectives of meeting community needs and enhancing visitor experiences.

As part of our strategic planning process in fall 2024, the library conducted focus group sessions and collected community survey responses. There were numerous requests for longer open hours, with some wanting an earlier opening time, some wanting a later closing time, and some wanting Sunday hours. After reviewing those comments and analyzing our current foot traffic data, we determined opening an hour earlier each day made the most sense at this time. We will continue to monitor community needs - and the library budget - to see if adding later hours or Sunday hours would be a helpful and affordable option to pursue. In the meantime, we look forward to welcoming you to the library starting at 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 5!

Upcoming Holiday Hours

Speaking of library hours, please note that the library will be closed for the holidays Wednesday and Thurs-

day, Dec. 24-25, as well as Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. Whether you are staying home or traveling this holiday season, be sure to stock up on library books and movies, or maybe even a board game or jigsaw puzzle, to keep you entertained on these long winter nights. Snow too deep for you to venture out? Don’t forget about our digital books and movies that are available for downloading and streaming anytime. Kanopy has some great holiday movies, and Libby and Hoopla have a huge selection of ebooks and audiobooks available - all you need are your library card and an internet-connected device. Visit wlclib. org/digital-library to get started!

DeMumbrum

Circa 1860s – A view of the Mouth showing the log boom (in the foreground) in what is now Sadony Bayou. The natural channel to Lake Michigan is just beyond the buildings in the upper left. • Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Vikings show growth in opening defeat

Whitehall scores more points vs. Shelby, allows fewer than in last season's opener, falls 46-26

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

SHELBY — Stylistically, at least, Monday's Whitehall/Shelby season opener bore some resemblance to the game the teams played a season ago: The Tigers pressing Whitehall ballhandlers from the opening tip, the Vikings hanging in there for much of the first half, and Shelby ultimately proving too much - this time in a 46-26 win.

However, senior Janie Fagan said it isn't quite that simple. She noted that her team allowed fewer points and scored more than in the same matchup last December, a 53-17 Tigers' win.

"I feel like our team this year is much better than last year," Fagan said. "We came out today and played better than we did at the end of the season last year. Our defense is much better. We were able to hold them way more than we were in the first game last year, and I'm confident in our offense and defense going forward as a team."

Monday's game was certainly more competitive than some of the Vikings' tangles with top teams a year ago. Shelby started the game attacking Whitehall with its press defense, but the Vikes were able to keep it at bay enough to stay close throughout the first quarter. Kayden Johnson hit a pair of free throws after being fouled on a three-point attempt to tie the score at 6, and Shelby led by a narrow 11-8 margin after one.

Shelby created some separation by

hitting a trio of three-pointers in the second quarter, building a 10-point halftime lead, then called off the press in the second half and instead came at the Vikes with an aggressive man-toman defense. The switch led to several Whitehall turnovers and, in turn, easy Shelby baskets that helped the Tigers pull away.

Offense has been the area Whitehall has targeted for improvement for some time, and nothing about Monday likely changed that. The Vikings were solid defensively and played with admirable energy against a Shelby team that entered this season with sky-high expectations, but the Vikings needed more points.

"If you know that 12-step process, we did the first 11 pretty well, but the

Whitehall opener

continued on page 5

Whitehall on short end of shootout

Fremont holds off Whitehall; Vikings eye improving on defensive end

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall knew that with a younger roster this season, growing pains would be inevitable. That doesn't, however, make them easier to go through.

The Vikings were staring at an 0-2 start after a tough 68-66 defeat to Fremont in Friday's West Michigan Conference Lakes opener. They had a shot at the buzzer to win it after Fremont missed a couple of free throws with 2.4 seconds to play, but Alex Winczewski's three-point attempt missed long.

While the way the game ended was a downer for Whitehall, coach Christian Subdon said his biggest takeaway was the team didn't play well enough defensively and he'd have liked to see the Vikes play with more energy.

"That's where my emphasis is going to go, because 66 points is enough to win a high school basketball game,"

Subdon said. "Giving up 68 is unacceptable...I pride myself on being able to get 100% energy and effort out of my guys, and right now, we're not doing it. I've got to be better to figure out how to get that out of them right away. It comes back to me not having them prepared right away."

Part of the reason for Fremont's high scoring output was turnovers by Whitehall, particularly live-ball giveaways. The Packers often swarmed Whitehall ballhandlers, and when the

ball came loose, they grabbed it and raced for the opposing basket.

"That's where it comes back to that energy and effort," Subdon said. "It's never acceptable to get beat to the cup in a transition situation. We've been the people that do that.

"We're a young team not taking care of the ball. I've got to do better at mak-

ing sure we're not playing as frantic. It's easy to do that, to become frantic. I think that's what we did, and it cost us."

Whitehall did show some gumption in repeatedly coming back from sizable deficits. Fremont took a 20-8

Whitehall's Clare Westerlund gets ready to go up for a shot during Monday's season opening game at Shelby. The Vikings' junior had 7 points and 7 rebounds in the team's 46-26 loss. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Kayden Johnson is fouled by Shelby's Michelle Peterson during Monday's game at Shelby. The Vikings dropped the game to the Tigers, 46-26.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Peyton Schultz is harassed by Shelby defender Michelle Peterson during Monday's game at Shelby. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Pierce Westerlund tries to keep possession of the ball while Fremont's Javon Basso tries to knock it loose during Friday's WMC Lakes game at Whitehall. The Vikings struggled with turnovers in a 68-66 defeat. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Hunter Osborne corrals a rebound while Fremont's Mossen Green attempts to wrestle it away during Friday's game. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall takes 2nd at Grandville Challenge

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall's wrestling team opened its season with an impressive showing in the Grandville Challenge, finishing in second place with 148.5 team points.

The Vikings checked in with 10 fewer team points than the host Bulldogs, but had champions or runners-up in half of the 14 weight classes, with two wrestlers taking the top spot.

Robert Belinger and Dom Zygmuntowski won

their weight classes at 113 and 126 pounds respectively. Zygmuntowski faced five opponents and scored pins or technical falls against each of them, capping his day with a pin of Lapeer's Aaron Lowe in the final round. Belinger picked up a win by forfeit in the first round and then won three straight matches on the mat, finishing with a pin of Portage Northern's Andrew Peterson.

Five Vikings finished in second place in their weight classes. Blake Wallace pinned his opponent

Whitehall opener

whole 'putting the ball in the hole' thing was problematic for us," Milliron said. "The energy level was very good. I thought our seniors came out - we have five returning girls from last year's team - and I thought they all did a really good job of competing tonight."

One good thing to see Monday was junior Clare Westerlund. After missing early practices while addressing a health issue, she was able to come back for the season opener and was a key part of the Viking attack, leading the team with seven points and seven rebounds. She entered the season poised to be one of the team's most valued leaders as a third-year varsity player.

"It was great to see her play," Milliron said. "She's a kid who's got unlim-

ited potential when it comes to what she can do. She's stronger this year. She's faster this year, but she's a lot more of a leader this year."

"She plays with heart and emotion," Fagan added of her teammate.

Whitehall's balanced scoring meant a few players scored their first varsity points, which will no doubt pay dividends later in the season. While there remains much the Vikes will work on, Milliron was plainly pleased with the mentality his team showed in its opening game.

Fagan and Westerlund will be the focal points in the huddle as the season progresses, and that's been no secret.

"We talked about it in the offseason," Milliron said. "(We said,) 'Clare,

Shootout loss

lead after a quarter, but thanks in part to a big scoring burst from Elijah Smith, Whitehall stormed back to take a 29-27 lead at halftime. Smith had 11 first-half points.

The teams traded leads through much of the third quarter, and Evan Thomas' two three-pointers kept the Vikings in the game. However, the Packers surged ahead by seven on two different occasions in the fourth to put Whitehall's backs against the wall. The Vikings played much of the second half without Hunter Osborne because of foul trouble, and fellow star Corde Anderson also ran into that issue during the game.

"We put ourselves in bad spots by fouling," Subdon said. "It put us in situations where we had to have other guys step up in roles that they haven't had to do yet; obviously, it's a young season. It's just learning. They had some guys in foul trouble too."

Whitehall again battled back, though, starting when Osborne scored right after re-entering the game. Thomas added a second-chance bucket, then Anderson scored on a driving layup to get the deficit to 61-59. Anderson then responded to a Fremont basket by powering his way to the rack for an and-one layup, converting the free throw to make it a onepoint game.

Anderson has been thrust into a leadership role this season as one of the Vikings' most veteran players, and Subdon said he's taking to the role. He scored a teambest 19 points Friday and also led the Vikes in rebounds, with six.

"I'm proud of him," Subdon said. "He's got things he's going to continue to work on. He's for sure

in all four of his victories at 120, and Max Krukowski posted a pin and a technical fall among his four victories at 144. Wyatt McFarren went 3-1 at 150, pinning two opponents, and Liam Leeke earned bonus-point wins three times at 175, including a pin and a technical fall. At 285, Billy Darke won his first four matches, including two pins.

Isaac O'Boyle capped off Whitehall's parade of top-3 finishers, finishing third at 132 with a 2-2 record.

we're going to be as good as you and Janie this season. Just bring everybody else along with you.' I felt we were all

I was pleased with everything except for the final score."

GBB alumni game

one of our leaders and our captains. He's doing a great job. He really is an elite human being, so that really helps."

Whitehall committed a couple of turnovers after that score, allowing Fremont to extend the lead again, but the Packers missed free throws down the stretch - they were 3-of-8 in the fourth quarterto open the door. Unfortunately, the Vikings couldn't quite kick it down.

The loss was certainly disheartening - and damaging to the team's hopes of earning another WMC Lakes title - but Subdon expects his team will respond to the disappointment.

"We don't have a choice," Subdon said. "We're backed into a corner, We either choose to fight or be OK with our outcomes that we're having. I don't think that we'll do that. I think we've got some guys that are willing to fight. I know

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

I'm not going to give up on these guys."

Smith scored 13 points for the game, and Thomas, Osborne and Pierce Westerlund each added 10. Gabe Hulst posted a game-high 20 points for Fremont.

Whitehall High School will celebrate the 50 Beausang Award winners for outstanding female athlete at its Dec. 20 girls basketball alumni game. The game will take place at the high school gym at 3 p.m. The project is being arranged by Viking players Peyton Schultz and Mayson Milliron.

Sports in Brief

Fennville 57 Montague

Girls Basketball

Bowling

R-P boys 3rd, girls 7th at Jenison Invite

The Rocket boys advanced to bracket play before falling to Byron Center in the semifinals. Liam Copenhaver finished 2nd overall, rolling games of 233 and 203. Destani Vallalpando led the Rocket girls at the meet with a high game of 146, and Kaila Uhlig had a 127.

pulling the same way, pushing the same way as a whole tonight.

Whitehall's Corde Anderson protects the ball from Fremont foes Collin Trouslot and Mossen Green (13) during Friday's game at Whitehall. The Vikings lost, 68-66. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

continued from page 4

Whitehall's Mari DeRose (left) and Clare Westerlund close in on a Shelby foe during Monday's game at Shelby. The Vikings lost, 46-26. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Elijah Smith (right) attacks the basket as Fremont's Logan McLain defends during Friday's game at Whitehall.

Montague alum Collins wins GLIAC award

Montague football legend Drew Collins, who recently completed his Michigan Tech football career, was announced Monday as this year's recipient of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference's (GLIAC) Jack H. McAvoy Award, which is presented annually to a GLIAC football player who best combines outstanding character and leadership on the field, in the classroom and in the community.

The award is named for former Hillsdale College athletic director and head coach Jack McAvoy, who was instrumental in founding the Midwest Intercollegiate Football Conference (MIFC), now known as the GLIAC.

During his Montague career, Collins starred at quarterback for three seasons, leading the Wildcats to the 2020 state championship, as well as a 2018 state runner-up

finish and the 2019 state final four. He was named Division 6 state player of the year in his senior season.

“There is nobody more deserving than Drew to win this award,” said Michigan Tech head coach Dan Mettlach in a press release. “Drew has done an incredible job since the day he stepped on campus raising the standard of what it means to be a part of our program. Drew has volunteered with multiple projects in our community on top of leading team Bible studies. He will graduate from Michigan Tech with a degree in Sports and Fitness Management and a master's degree in Business Administration.

“His leadership was valued by everyone in our program as he was voted a team captain in 2025 as well as a member of our Leadership Council for five years.”

recently presented the

• Courtesy of Michigan Tech Athletics

On the gridiron, Collins was a two-time All-GLIAC honorable mention player, playing in 37 games in his career and scoring 10 touchdowns. He recorded 269 all-purpose yards, including a career-high four touchdowns, in the 2025 campaign.

Academically, Collins is a three-time GLIAC Academic Excellence team selection, earning a degree in sports and fitness management in the spring of 2025 and will complete his MBA in spring 2026.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Anderson named 1st team all-state

Whitehall senior Corde Anderson was named an all-state first team performer in Division 5-6 this week by both the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association and state sportswriters.

Anderson starred on the defensive line (the position at which he earned his all-state accolades) and at wide receiver for the Vikings, who went 7-4 and reached the district championship game this fall. Anderson, who also plays basketball and runs track for Whitehall, announced his commitment to play for defending Division II national champion Ferris State Sept. 1.

Between holidays and holy moments

By Margaret Heaton Volunteer Contributor

As I sit here between the holidays, looking out over beautiful White Lake, I can’t help but pause and take it all in. Snow drifts quietly along the shoreline, ice crystals shimmer like tiny diamonds, and the cold settles deep - Michigan’s way of reminding us who’s in charge. It’s hard to believe that just four weeks ago we were trying to stay cool in the Texas heat, and now we're waking up to two degrees. And soon enough, we’ll be on the road again, heading toward the warmth of central Florida for our next mission trip, where we’ll help build at a children’s camp. We truly love the work God lets us do.

Being home for the holidays has brought the sweetest blessing: time with family. This year, our hearts were stolen by a tiny little newcomer, our great-granddaughter, baby Audrianna. Just 5 pounds, 7 ounces, and I’m certain every ounce is precious. Great-Grandpa is wrapped around her little finger already. I have no doubt if she asked him for the moon, he’d pull out a ladder and give it his best try.

Now, I must admit—being a great-grandparent is wonderful. But one of the pictures I treasure most is the sight of our son holding his first grandchild. We have two sons now blessed with grandchildren of their own, and I’ve watched each of them cradle their grandbaby for the very first time. I remem-

ber the miracle of holding my own children when they were born, and now I get to witness another miracle: watching my child hold his grandchild.

Growing older has its advantages. The memories grow richer, the blessings sweeter.

And speaking of getting older, may we share a laugh together? When a new baby arrives, we ask all the usual questions: Is she eating well? Sleeping well? Peeing and pooping as she should? Well, imagine my surprise when we scheduled our holiday doctor visits and the doctor began asking us the same questions! I almost asked him if he needed to know our nap schedule too.

But truly, aging has its perks. Our children insist we take naps, so much so that they warn others not to call in the afternoon. We’ve earned that privilege. And we’ve learned how to say “no” without guilt, how to choose comfort over fashion, and how to appreciate the small, sacred moments that make up a life. And when we forget something? We simply smile and chalk it up to age. Such freedom!

Still, the greatest lesson my

husband and I have learned is this: getting older does not mean slowing down. If anything, it reminds us that time is precious. Ministry doesn’t come with a retirement plan. We will serve the Lord joyfully for as long as He gives us strength.

There is one small inconvenience to getting older, though; our appetites aren’t quite what they used to be. A baker like me used to make three loaves of bread at a time. Now I make just one. Instead of three dozen cookies, I bake eighteen. Just enough for enjoyment and a little sharing.

My recipe this month is one of the simplest I make throughout the holidays - something cozy and comforting that fits any part of the day. I enjoy it warm for breakfast in place of muffins, chilled with a cup of tea in the afternoon, or sliced in the evening for a little sweet snack. This sweet bread is easy, flexible, and always delicious.

Blueberry Sweet Bread

1 cup sugar

2 cups flour

2 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 egg

1 cup milk

⅓ cup butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp almond flavoring (optional)

1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

Melt the butter in a small bowl. Add the egg, milk, vanilla, and almond flavoring if using. Stir well.

In a separate larger bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueber-

ries. If using frozen berries, toss them lightly in flour first to keep the batter from turning blue. Pour batter into a greased bread pan.

Bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes.

Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove to a rack to finish cooling.

Simple Lemon Glaze

½ cup powdered sugar

1 Tbsp melted butter

1 Tbsp lemon juice

Mix until smooth and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Montague alum Drew Collins was

Jack McAvoy Award, which goes to the GLIAC football player who combines on-field leadership and character with classroom and community accomplishments.

Whitehall's Corde Anderson tries to pull in a pass during a game against Oakridge. Anderson was named first team all-state this week by 2 selectors.

Blueberry sweet bread, such as the loaf Margaret made, is a cozy and comforting dish for any time of day, especially during the holiday season. • Courtesy Photo

Recent Whitehall police activity

vehicle run a red light at the intersection of Colby Street and Mears Avenue. Contact was made with the driver, a 26-year-old female from Dalton Township, and it was learned the driver had an outstanding warrant in Livingston County.The county was contacted and advised of the warrant. The driver was cited for driving without a license.

Dec. 7

Dec. 5

Officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle at 7:23 p.m. after observing the

At 3:02 a.m., officers were called to admit the Muskegon County Sheriff's Department in the 8200 block of Whitehall Road in Whitehall Township. The original reporting party indicated there was a subject sleeping on the entryway floor of a commercial building in the area. The officer made contact

with the involved party, a 36-year-old male from Muskegon Township, and the subject indicated he was walking home from Jimmy'z Pub, had gotten cold and stopped to take shelter. Officers transported him to his home address.

Dec. 9

Officers were called to the 1200 block of E Colby St. at 3:06 p.m. on a well-being check. The reporting party indicated that she was a caregiver for an individual at the residence, an 83-year-old male, couldn't get the gentleman to answer his door and was concerned for his well-being. Officers knocked on the door with no answer, and noticing the door was unlocked,

went into the home. They found the resident was taking a nap. Officers verified that he was fine and referred him to his caregiver.

Dec. 10

At 1:25 p.m., officers were called to a business in the 800 block of E Colby St. after a party stopped at Whitehall City Hall and informed staff of a suspicious occurence. They said they had observed a subject exiting the back door of the business although it was closed. Officers found the door unlocked and checked the interior of the buolding, finding nothing amiss. A message was left making the business aware of the incident, which appeared to be a simple oversight by store employees.

White River Twp. board approves ordinance changes

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The White River Township board unanimously approved the two ordinance changes referred to it by the planning commission during Tuesday's regular meeting.

The two changes, referred by the commission at a special meeting last month, were regarding nonconforming structures and short-term rentals.

One change removed a requirement that an enlargement or extension to a nonconforming building or structure shall not exceed 50% of the area of the original building or structure at the time it became nonconforming, and

it also remanded approval of nonconforming setbacks to the zoning administrator rather than the Zoning Board of Appeals.

The other change allows STRs to be served only by a private road as long as the road is at least 15 feet wide at all points; there is a turnaround point of at least 120 feet in diameter; and the road is suitable for at least a 20-ton fire truck to operate upon it year-round.

The ordinance also states that renters utilizing the home must sign a contract disclosing that the road is private and not maintained by the township.

During public comment, local resident Paul Schroeder asked the board if it had made any movement about

a proposal he made on behalf of the Muskegon Conservation District about a potential co-ownership agreement for two parcels of land on Lost Lake; he is the MCD board chair. Supervisor Ron Bailey replied that due to the parcels being landlocked, the board had a neutral reaction to the proposal

Also during public comment, the board was asked about township boards signing nondisclosure agreements with private companies, an issue that has come up elsewhere in the state. The commenter asked if it was possible for the township to prohibit such things from happening. The Pioneer reported that Big Rapids Township adopted such a prohibition in Jan-

uary, and the Livingston Post reported in November that multiple Howell Township board members had signed NDAs with a data center developer. Planning commission chair Lauren Wackernagel updated the board on last week's special meeting regarding the Lakeside Solar special use permit application. She mentioned the commission working with the limited responses it received to township questions, and noted that two more experts will be on hand for the commission's meeting next Tuesday to discuss the permit with regard to noise levels and brownfields.

Nestrom Park receives $82,300 grant, among parks to be improved by DNR grant awards

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced Tuesday that Fruitland Township is one of 15 communities who will receive DNR Recreation Passport grants this year.

The township will receive $82,300 to construct accessbile pathways at Nestrom Park.

In all, $1,920,100 in Recreation Passport grants were awarded in this round of funding.

“The Recreation Passport remains one of the best values in outdoor recreation anywhere in the United States,” said DNR director Scott Bowen. “Beyond providing annual public access to dozens of state parks, trailheads, state forest campgrounds and boating access sites, 10% of the proceeds from each $14 Recreation Passport help fund state park improvements and

maintenance and grants to communities for additional local park improvement projects.”

The DNR’s Recreation Passport grant program began in 2010 with the goal of boosting visitation and funding for Michigan state parks. The Recreation Passport is a $14 annual pass required for access to 103 state parks and recreation areas, more than 140 state forest campgrounds, Michigan historic sites, hundreds of boating access sites and thousands of miles of trails.

Ten percent of the proceeds from Recreation Passport sales are granted to communities across the state for development and improvement of local public recreation facilities.

The Recreation Passport replaced the DNR’s traditional annual motor vehicle permit for state park access with

a purchase program tied to the renewal of license plate registrations.

Beyond the money allocated for Recreation Passport grants, revenue from sales of Recreation Passports supports operations, infrastructure and historic and cultural assets in Michigan’s state parks and recreation system.

Selected projects were scored and selected from a field of 57 grant applications seeking a total of $7.2 million in funding.

With the announcement of this year’s recipients, the Recreation Passport grant program has awarded a total of $22.3 million statewide.

The application period for the next round of Recreation Passport grant funding opens in early 2026, with applications due April 1.

Approximately 97% of state parks funding for operations and maintenance is generated by user fees and royalty revenues.

The Nestrom Road park in Fruitland Township is receiving a grant of over $82,000 to construct accessible pathways. • Courtesy Photo