Issuu

NAF announces 2026 Queen Candidates

On Wednesday, April 8, the National Asparagus Festival (NAF) hosted an information meeting at the Hart Community Center for the 2026 Queen Candidates.

This year’s candidates were offered a chance to learn more about the requirements of being the Asparagus Queen, enjoy refreshments provided by Stella’s Coffee House, and ask questions of the reigning Asparagus Queen Shelby Purdy and Runner-up Haley Walsworth.

Candidates will participate in various activities throughout the month of May. These include a tour of the West Michigan Research Station, where they will get a crash course on the Michigan Asparagus industry, and even the opportunity to help pick asparagus; headshots taken by Dostal Digital Photography; and finally, one-on-one interviews with the NAF's chosen panel of judges to determine who will be the 2026 National Asparagus Queen and the 2026 National Asparagus Queen Runner-up!

Once again this year, instead of a formal pageant, a live announcement of the winner and a crowning ceremony will take place during the Friday night live concert event on June 12 featuring the band Your Generation.

The Queen Candidates are (pictured above, from left):

• Makynzie Curtis sponsored by A Bride's Time of Ludington

• Sami Weesies sponsored by Up North Garden Center

• Shannon Beishuizen sponsored by American Asparagus of New Era

• Katelyn Brown sponsored by Springstead Law

• Jennifer Ramirez Coppedge sponsored by Northwest Michigan Health Services

School robotics teams mark memorable season

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

County robotics teams kept busy this winter preparing their robots for competition, practicing maneuvers and troubleshooting scenarios, then competing in numerous weekend events through the month of March. While no Oceana County team was able to advance to the state finals this year, they all reported other meaningful accomplishments for their teams. The 2026 season will end this weekend, April 16-18, at Saginaw Valley State University, where the top 160 teams in the state will compete. The Oceana Echo is pleased to provide the following season’s recap.

Shelby: Shelby’s robotics team, Tiger Bytes, Team 10654, ended their 2026 season March 29 at Battle Creek Central High School. “We came in third place with the fourth alliance team made up of Alliance Captain, 5152 Alotobots, of Otsego and Team 9215, T-Town Tech, of Tekonsha,” Second Team Mentor Angie Setlak reported.

Earlier this season (March 20 and 21), the team competed in Muskegon and was chosen as the third team in the third alliance. That team consisted of their mentor team, 4956 Robosharks out of Whitehall; and 3572, Wavelength Robotics, out of Mona Shores High School. “We won last year with Wavelength, so we were very happy and lucky to have been chosen by them again. Unfortunately, our robot rammed into a bar during the first match of the playoffs, and it resulted in a cable getting unplugged. We didn't resolve the issue in time and were subbed out for a different team,” Setlak said.

“We were fortunate to be sponsored by the Gene Haas Foundation, West Coast Products, CTR Electronics, Nesson Cable Engineering, Advanced Architectural and Supplies, Shelby Rotary Club, Shelby Optimist Club and Shelby State Bank. With their support, we were able to purchase four swerve drives for our robot. Switching to a totally new drive system slowed us down during the first part of the season, but it will help our team in the long run, so I'm glad we were able to acquire swerve drives this year."

Setlak added that the team grew to 10 student members this year and they were thankful for adult team mentors Jaime Ibarra, Damian Omness and Elizabeth Reed.

“We are learning how to coach more kids and be pulled in different directions. There is always room for more team members and mentors,” Setlak said in closing.

If interested, please email Setlack at 10654tigerbytes@gamil.com.

Hart: "(Hart High School’s robotic team) MOTOR #6128 has completed its best year in our 10th year of competing,” reported team mentor Matt Werner. “We were ranked in the top 10 at Muskegon Orchard View and Grand Valley State University at the end of the qualification matches. During Alliance selections, we became an Alliance Captain for the first and second time ever. As the leader of (both) Alliance 6 and Alliance 7, we lost our playoff matches, but we were excited to have gotten as far as we did. Because we are ranked 166th in the state, a trip to the championships in Saginaw is not going to happen this year.

According to Werner, the team has worked hard since the FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) Kick-Off on January 10. This year's challenge consisted of collecting six-inch foam balls (called Fuel) from around the field and shooting them into a six-foot-high bin, similar to a basketball game. The robot is allowed to carry any number of Fuel, but has size constraints. The Fuel is returned to the field and can be scored multiple times.

“They prototyped the six subsystems of their robot: Drive; Navigation; Intake; Hopper; Kicker; and Shooter. Then they converted those prototypes into a complete robot design and built their robot for competition. They were able to take their robot to the practice field, hosted by UACJ (formerly Whitehall Industries) and managed by MiSTEM Region #9 of the WSESD in Ludington, and worked out a number of bugs with their design. New for the team this year was using a camera vision system to help with the Navigation subsystem.

Team MOTOR wishes to thank the many sponsors that helped make this season successful: HPS, Gene Haas Foundation, Hallack Contracting, SSB, MSU Research Station, MiTs, Mullen Family, West Michigan Carpet & Floor, Kayla Dennert, SL Chamber, Shelby Optimists, Palmer Orchards, Tufts State Farm and Kristi's Pour House.

This year MOTOR was mentored by Werner, Andrew Mullen, Jeremiah Palmer and Jalynn Wilkinson. Wilkinson is new to Hart and is an

alum of Team #85 B.O.B. of Zeeland, a recent Kettering University grad and now employed at Howmet in Whitehall.

During the build season, several team members nominated Werner for the Woodie Flowers Finalist Award, that celebrates team mentors who have made valuable contributions to their team. Coach Werner was recognized along with other mentors at this year’s Muskegon competition in March.

Those wishing to donate to the Hart robotics team can visit www. zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/ help-hart-high-school-roboticsteam-motor--6128. Donations can also be made via check or cash directly to Hart High School, with “Robotics 6128” as the memo line. Hesperia: The Hesperia Robo Panthers were proud to compete in two FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics competition (FRC) events this year - the Orchard View HS Muskegon Competition and the Kentwood HS Competition. FRC is a global engineering initiative that teaches STEM through hands-on challenge completion. Team members included Robert and Daniel Frazier (driver, scorer), Vincent Lound (programmer), Michael Wyant (human player), Johnny Dagen (drive coach), Kaitlyn Jordan (backup scorer and technician), Karma Bennett (artist) and Riley McMaster (photography and pit organizer).

At the most recent Kentwood FRC event, the Robo Panthers finished qualifying matches and ranked 12th out of 39 teams. "This was a huge accomplishment for our team. We have never ranked this well and had the opportunity to be one of eight team captains going into the elimination brackets. Although the team did not make it far into the tournament matches this year, it marked a huge accomplishment in the program at Hesperia, which is in its third year of participation in FIRST programs,” Coach Dan Postema remarked.

Mentors for the 2026 Robo Panthers team included Postema, Mike Gerard (technician), Jason Foster (programming) and Troy Wyant (general support).

“We cannot thank our sponsors enough - Mighty Lube/OPCO, GM Wood Products, Jack's Quick Stop, Heritage Farms Market, Nieboer Electric, Ed's Orchard Market, and JBS Machining and Fabrication. Their financial support provided the funds needed to build our robot and provide support for lodging and food when required,” Postema added. Those interested in supporting the team financially or becoming a part of the team, please contact Postema at postemad@ hesp.net.

The 2026 NAF Queen Candidates are, back row, from left, Makynzie Curtis and Sami Weesies; front row, from left, Shannon Beishuizen, Katelyn Brown (attending virtually) and Jennifer Ramirez Coppedge.

Contributed photo

HesperiaFlooding

By Scott Kroepel The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Hesperia leaders met with the DEQ to discuss the dam as heavy rains continued to cause issues in the area. The Maple Island Road bridge is currently closed. Village President Mike Farber said local personnel are not yet too concerned, as the spillway is doing its job as designed; however, a flood watch has been issued for downstream residences for cautionary purposes.

Board of Commissioners hears trio of area annual reports

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners heard three 2025 annual reports at its most recent meeting, April 9, first from MSU Extension, then the District #10 Health Department and finally the Oceana County Council on Aging.

MSU Extension District Director James Kelly began his report by humorously announcing that he and the other organization presenters had formed “a quiet wager in the back [of the audience] about the three annual reports today and who can speak the longest. So, someone, start the clock…”

The report was heavily statistics-based, with numbers such as 2,325 Oceana County participants throughout 297 national programs, 64 locally hosted programs, and 718 consultations, with an overall 6,317 community members reached through the work done by MSU Extension. Of these statistics, Kelly was particularly impressed with the communication (204,703 contacts through various sources, both online and physical) and youth programming, which boasts 1,514 participants. “Oceana County certainly is thriving under the leadership of Jennifer Payne, there was about a 60% increase in overall youth participation,” explained Kelly. "That includes not just the traditional [4-H] club members, but [also] just other one-time events.”

Where numbers have performed less favorably is the community health and nutrition programming, with the loss of their community nutrition specialist due to SNAP funding cuts. “It’s always tough to stop and reflect…there was important work being done in terms of nutrition education and how to get more from your SNAP dollars, [and] how to be active and live healthy, working with schools and early childhood centers," said Kelly. ”The numbers are still in the positives, with 276 program participants and 131 policy, systemic and environmental changes implemented in the county intended to benefit Oceana's overall health and nutrition. Following these budget cuts, MSU Extension is looking at other avenues for supplementary funding.

In discussing MSU’s impact on the 2025 growing season, Kelly highlighted an incident in which the organization provided a follow-up inspection and education after a grower was at risk of losing their $420,000 carrot crop, with the report highlighting how “MSU Extension helps ensure that compliance conversations are accurate, fair, and supportive of Michigan’s agricultural economy.”

Other recent and notable expansions to the organization in the past year include their Conservation Stewardship program, steelhead fishing sustainability, and local governance and zoning board of appeals certification courses.

“I encourage you to continue to keep us…as your resource that you might think of when you come

up against a challenge in your world. Regardless of what that is, Extension is the window to your local resources, regional resources and then the university itself,” said Kelly, concluding his 14-minute presentation before taking questions.

Questions from commissioners included solar field development and loss of farmland, as well as thanks for MSU Extension participation in 4-H and the County Fair.

The second presentation came from Kevin Hughes, health officer with the District #10 Health Department, which oversees 10 Michigan counties, including Oceana.

Hughes deemed the “theme for this year’s report…was adapting through challenges, and 2025 was a challenging year for the local health department,” as the budget reverted to its pre-pandemic state and 41 positions were eliminated. Because there was no increase in annual funding, fees associated with services, particularly in environmental health, increased. Despite this, the services provided by the health department have grown, with over 11,000 cases across the district.

In 2025, the health department introduced Hepatitis C treatment to their family planning clinics and offered telehealth for those clinics and their school services. The adolescent health center, operating in Shelby Public Schools with behavioral health wellness centers at Hart and Pentwater public schools, has seen a greater number of students utilizing the system. So far, in the 2025-2026 school year, 218 individual clients have received services through the Shelby adolescent health center, with 37 in Hart and 29 in Pentwater. In total, the three schools saw 969 incidents of service in total.

Hughes also shared some highlights from the Community Health Improvement Plan for Oceana County. Priorities based on participant feedback and data include access to healthcare, mental health and substance use disorders, chronic disease and healthy weight maintenance, and economic stability. Following his presentation (running 7 minutes) Hughes answered questions related to Oceana County’s specific needs, programming, opiate settlement funds, health and safety misinformation and measles (so far there are no confirmed cases in District #10).

The Oceana County Council on Aging’s presentation began with Development and Community Engagement Manager Gwen Adams, who guided commissioners through the council’s annual report.

Some of the programming highlighted in the annual report included case support in navigating the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), with the help of Senior Care Service Director Jaccie Smith, who has received certification through the program. This program service is utilized by 75 clients in Oceana County.

Adams also discussed Our Friends House Adult Day Services and Community Living Support, ad-

dressing the needs of dependent seniors, which provided 4,672 and 7,341 service hours, respectively, in 2025.

She noted that transportation is one of the most important services provided by OCCOA with funding through a county-wide millage, where seniors are provided transportation anywhere in the county for a suggested donation fee of $2-$5 per ride. Outside of Oceana County, volunteer drivers are provided to take seniors to medical appointments and treatments. There were 92,428 miles logged between both programs in 2025, even during government shutdowns late last year.

Following Adams, Executive Director Stephanie Moore presented a summary of the council’s 2025 budget and plans for the future, including growth and outreach throughout different locations and demographics in the county. Moore also explained how, through tapping various sources of funding both statewide and nationally, OCCOA’s millage now only accounts for 58.5% of the annual budget, rather than 80%, as it has been previously.

There was also discussion of partnering with MDOT to receive $1.7 million in funding for a bus garage to accommodate the growing number of vehicles OCCOA utilizes. While construction is underway, there has been concern, raised by Commissioner Paul Erickson, that the grant will not allow the garage to be constructed on OCCOA’s current property. Moore explained that the matter has been in discussion between the council and several state agencies as they try to get a clear answer on their allowance.

Regarding the outcome of Kelly’s bid, OCCOA edged out MSU Extension as the longest presentation at nearly 16 minutes.

At the regular meeting, all Commissioners (save for Joel McCormick, whose absence was excused by the chair) approved a motion to increase parttime hours for the Circuit Court collection clerk to 35 bi-weekly hours, which would cost the county $153.11 per pay period. This would be for a 90-day trial basis at first, subject to change later.

Commissioners also voted to appoint six individuals to the County Advisory Tax Limitation Committee, all of whom are involved in county financials and required by MCL laws. These appointments are for one-year terms for the purpose of assisting the millage alternation process for the election year.

Finally, commissioners approved the Mason-Oceana 911 and Oceana County Emergency Ambulance's submission of operating millages to the August 4 ballot this year. Both millages are for six years and amount to 0.14 of 1 and 1 mill, respectively. Of the organizations these millages fund, Chairman Robert Walker spoke of their efficiency and importance to the community. Commissioner Tim Beggs put it more simply, “When I make the phone call [to 911], I want flashing lights headed my way.”

• Scott Kroepel/Echo Photos

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Thank you

News and Notes

groundwater.” Business sponsorships are available, and any amount is helpful! Anyone interested in contributing is asked to contact Laura Ackerman at 503-481-3125 or by visiting oceanaconservation.org.

Love INC of Shelby wishes to thank Dad’s Automotive and the community for their recent food pantry donations. Love INC shared the drive was a huge success and every donation was very much appreciated. For more information about Love INC’s many services and resources, please visit loveincoceana.org.

Natural Resources

The Oceana Conservation District (OCD) is grateful for the community’s support and participation in their annual Hazardous Waste Day held every August. Looking toward the future, the board of directors want to be certain they are able to continue hosting this important event. “It is encouraging that more and more people are wanting to protect the area’s natural resources from harmful chemicals and compounds, however, the cost of recycling these items has gone up exponentially,” said OCD board member Mary Sheppard. “We want to let the community know of the situation and ask for financial contributions beforehand so we will be able to keep the event going in the future. Together we can keep more hazardous waste out of our environment and

The Silver Lake Recreation Association’s (SLRA) 2026 Spring Dune Clean-Up held Saturday, March 28 was a tremendous success. “It was an incredible day of community action,” said Lloyd Miller of SLRA. In cooperation with Dad’s Disposal Services, 83 hard-working volunteers were able to successfully remove a total of 1,137 pounds of debris from the Silver Lake ORV Park!

This free stewardship event, focused on teamwork and environmental preservation, awarded many participants with free giveaways from the following businesses - gift cards from Silver Lake Chicken Shack, Golden Bakery & Cafe, and The Golden Eatery, RC car and stickers from Duneland Off-Road Center, kids shirts from Dune Hippie Machines, prize package from Silverback Offroad Rental, safety flag and quick-release mounts from DunesStars, 10foot dune flag, pendants and hats from Klotz’s Auto Parts and volunteer goody bags from The Sand Box.

“It is inspiring to see so many people and businesses come together to ensure our dunes remain pristine and safe for the upcoming 2026 season,” Miller said. Find out more about the SLRA at slra.org.

Donations Needed

The New Era Farmer’s Market is gearing up for a rummage sale fundraiser, Wednesday, April 22 and Thursday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Avenue Event Center in downtown New Era. They are in need of donations and are asking the community to drop those off Monday, April 20 or Tuesday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Avenue. Organizers ask that donations be clean and in working order. Volunteers will be needed all four days for setup/ teardown, sorting and pricing. All proceeds will go toward New Era Farmer’s Market operations. For further information, please contact Sandy Whitaker at 517-242-0041 or email shoppnqueen@hotmail.com. For more information and updates, follow New Era Farmer’s Market on Facebook.

Weather Stats for March

Well, the old saying, “March comes in like a lion and goes out as a lamb," surely held true this year. Just when we could almost taste spring, another storm would blow through. While March 10 registered 62 degrees and March 31 gave us 69 degrees, the average temperature for the entire month was a typical 45 degrees. The average low for the month was 27 degrees, with March 2 bringing us the coldest temperature at only 10 degrees. Some schools closed school on March 16 due to ice accumulations, and then on March 17 a reported 3.4 inches of snow was recorded. The total liquid precipitation for the month was 4.16 inches, and the total snowfall was 8.2 inches. For 2026, March certainly gave us a "potluck." But on the bright side, things didn’t warm up too quickly, and we received some much-needed moisture heading into the upcoming planting and growing seasons. Thanks to WEEH-FM in Mears for sharing their daily statistics with us each month. Stats are taken every morning at 7 a.m. for the previous 24 hours and then reported to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids.

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

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

The fate of many historic homes surviving to the 21st century is a precarious one, especially ones so large and distinct as the Chadwick-Munger House of downtown Hart. Time progresses, technology improves and tastes change - and not many homeowners are in the market for a fixer-upper with shoddy electric and high heating bills, no matter how beautifully crafted the built-ins.

Some historic homes get to see a second life not as residences, but as ambassadors to the public of their significance, either historically or architecturally. Plenty of homes owned or built by important individuals act as museums to their legacy. To provide a nearby example, the Hackley and Hume homes of Muskegon are testaments to the industrial titans of West Michigan, as well as display the exquisite craftsmanship their wealth could afford. To give a far-flung and foreign example, the Atelier de Cézanne in Aixen-Provence, France,

houses the Impressionist artist’s studio in immaculate condition, contextualizing his life and work.

But many homes do not start there, especially in America in the late 19th and 20th centuries. A lot of the time, historic homes are converted into government buildings or shops or schools, with the interiors adapted to fit the needs of the new owners.

Such was the same for the Chadwick-Munger House following Dr. Chadwick and his family’s departure in 1895. The house was unoccupied until 1897, when the family of Dr. Louis Munger began renting the three-story home, a doctor’s office already conveniently inside. By 1901, the Munger family officially purchased the home.

Their improvements over the years to the house weren’t insignificant, either. The layout was rearranged so that Edith Munger, who by now was making waves in the Audubon Society, could have a library and office in the former music room (don’t mind me, just seething with jealousy). The kitchen towards

the back of the house was also enlarged, as was the dining room modified. Likewise, Doc Munger spent a good deal of effort shoring up the structures in the basement, as some of the floors on the ground level were starting to sag.

Doc also added a lot of taxidermy animals, as he was an avid hunter. Personal witness testimony from Oceana County residents, who had the opportunity to see them, varies as to whether they were neat or creepy. One of the places where these animals could be found was on the newly added third floor. Finally, the stairs to nowhere, installed by a hopeful Harvey Chadwick, were given purpose, leading to a top-floor ballroom. This is also when the house’s roof was updated with its iconic pyramidic tower cap on the southeast corner turret.

In late 1958, Doc Munger passed away, and his son Robert, only two years later, from emphysema. This left Robert Munger’s wife Elizabeth with the large home,

which was already costing an arm and a leg in taxes and heating bills. Elizabeth and many others in Hart feared that the distinctive home that, at the time, had stood on Dryden Street for over 60 years was fated for demolition.

However, one group came along that did need a building of that size, and it was the Church of the Nazarene, which made its interest known to Elizabeth. Elizabeth went on to provide a loan to ensure the church could purchase the property, which they did in 1962. The church removed the interior walls of the north wing on the ground floor to provide worship space, leaving the living space upstairs intact for the use of pastors and their families. Also notable were their efforts to shore up the basement supports… again.

In 1970, the church finally outgrew the Chadwick-Munger House, and the property was purchased by Oceana County, who promptly moved the Department of Social

Services (DSS) from their place in the cramped courthouse basement across the street to the, comparatively, spacious three-story building. The sagging floors were noted by the DSS, but they happily spent the next several years in the Chadwick-Munger House, lowering the ceilings and installing proper air conditioning, a furnace and a burglar alarm system to protect their safe of good stamps.

In 1975, the District 5 Health Department set up shop and remained for the next decade. They inherited the offices as left by the DSS (and the squirrels that had moved in the space between the new and original ceilings), carving up the ground floor for smaller exam rooms and housing the nurses’ offices on the second floor. Alongside the squirrels was also an insect infestation to exterminate, which required some major work on the home’s frontmost walls. In 1984, the Health Department, such as with the DSS and Nazarenes, left for more suit-

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

able office space.

In 1985, the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society (OCH&GS) possessed several historically significant buildings in Mears, including the Swift Lathers property and the Swedish Church, but they had little room for artifacts and the growing materials making up their genealogy research collection. Understanding its importance to the history of Oceana County, the OCH&GS considered the Chadwick-Munger House the perfect building in which to begin their expansion and bought the property to usher it into its new era, where it remains today.

Where Edith Munger’s library once stood, there are now research stations, curated newspaper clippings and geological tomes. Where the Nazarene Church worshipped is now where you can find old yearbooks and a selection of baked goods brought in by volunteers. The bedrooms of the second floor are dedicated to archival storage, postcards, paintings and the list goes on. The old DSS office is now one of the best places to learn about Oceana County’s Native Americans. And the third floor that once housed a ballroom and taxidermy menagerie? Well, that’s none of my business. And if you ever want to stop by on a Wednesday afternoon, I’m usually in the old doctor’s office, probably with a plateful of cookies and looking for a reason to get distracted by visitors.

Inside the Chadwick-Munger House during Hart's ArtWalk in 2024.

• Paul Erickson/Echo

Ongoing

THIRD MONDAYS of the month:

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

Pentwater Lake Association, Centenary UMC, Pentwater, 6:30 p.m.

Crystal Township Board Meeting, Township Hall, 7 p.m. Hart, Pentwater, Hesperia, Shelby, Walkerville Public Schools, Monthly School Board Meetings, 7 p.m.

THIRD TUESDAY of the month:

Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society Board Meeting, Chadwick Munger House, Hart, 2 p.m.

Pentwater Garden Club, various locations, 2:30 p.m.

Hesperia Community Library Board Meeting, 4:30 p.m.

Pentwater Township Library Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m.

Newfield Township Board Meeting, Township Hall, 7 p.m.

Village of Rothbury Council Meeting, Village Hall, 7 p.m.

Ferry Township Board Meeting, Township Hall, 7:30 p.m.

EVERY TUESDAY of the month:

Shelby Rotary, Shelby Congregational Church, 12:10 p.m.

TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 p.m.

FOURTH WEDNESDAY of the month:

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Hart Rotary, Hart United Methodist Church, noon.

FOURTH THURSDAY of the month:

Oceana County Board of Commissioners 11:30 a.m. Oceana County Courthouse Board Room

Hart Area Fire Department Fire Command Board, 7 p.m. Hart Fire Station

EVERY THURSDAY:

Pentwater Service Club, Centenary UMC Pentwater, 11:30 a.m.

LAST FRIDAY of the month

District Health Department #10 Board of Health, Wexford Health Department, Cadillac, 9:30 a.m.

The Ladder Community Center:

April 21 - Share Our Stories: “History of Gale’s IGA, 6-7 p.m.

April 24 - Music by the Jammers 10 a.m. to noon

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.

TUES thru April 14: Pit Stop (Men 12+), 6:30-7:30 p.m.

April 21: Knitting Group, 10 a.m. to noon

MON: Women’s Bible Study, 1 Peter, 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

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

Spring Silent Auction begins at SADL

Just in time for Mother’s Day gift giving, the Friends of SADL (Shelby Area District Library) are offering a variety of baskets, totes, birdhouses and other assorted items for Silent Auction through May 2. There will be 14 unique gift ideas on display at the Shelby Library, 189 Maple St. with bidding taking place through Saturday, May 2. With a spring-themed wreath, several garden-inspired gift baskets, beauty aids and lotions, there’s something for every special person in one’s life. There is also a golf package that includes a golf glove, hat, sleeves of balls and more. A custom-made pickleball bag, complete with all the essentials for beginners, including a racket, awaits those who play pickleball. Each of these gift packages is wrapped and ready for bids. Bidding closes at noon on May 2 and winners will be notified by phone.

All proceeds from the Spring Silent Auction benefit the Friends of the Shelby Area District Library, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to supporting the Shelby Library. If anyone would like to learn more about this organization or wish to join the Friends of SADL, please contact president Cindy McKinnon at friendsofshelbyareadistrlib@gmail. com.

Coming next month is the Garden Sale and Free Plant Giveaway on May 30. The Friends of SADL will be seeking volunteers to help by donating plants, garden tools, birdhouses, yard art, pots and more.

Apr. 9 - 30 - Friends of the Library Spring Silent Auction, SADL

April 17 - Mobile Food Bank, Walkerville Public Schools, 5 p.m.

April 17 & 18 - Shelby Drama Presents “Murder for Dummies”, Shelby Schools Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

April 19 - Shelby Drama Presents “Murder for Dummies”, Shelby Schools Auditorium, 4 p.m.

April 20 - Afterschool Movie, Hesperia Community Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

Apr. 20 & 21 - New Era Farmer’s Market Rummage Sale Donation Days, The Avenue Event Center, New Era, 9 a.m. -4 p.m.

April 21- Mobile Food Bank, Pentwater Fire Department, 11 a.m.

April 21 - Tech Time, Hesperia Community Library, 1-2 p.m.

Apr. 22 & 23 - New Era Farmer’s Market Rummage Sale Fundraiser, The Avenue Event Center, New Era, 9 a.m. -4 p.m.

April 23 - Crafternoon for Grown-Ups, Hart Area Public Library, 2 p.m.

April 23 - Basic Personal Finance Class, Hart Area Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m.

April 24 - Sensory Play, Hesperia Community Library, 10 a.m.

April 24 - Preschool Story Hour, Hart Area Public Library, 11 a.m

Apr. 24 - Hart Performing Arts Series, Mr. B’s Piano Celebration, Hart Schools Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

April 28 - Tech Time, Hesperia Community Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

April 28 - Adult Book Club, Hesperia Community Library, 2-3 p.m.

April 28 - Adult Craft Night, Hesperia Community Library, 6-7 p.m.

April 30 - Color Me Calm, Hart Area Public Library, 12-3 p.m.

April 30 - Basic Personal Finance Class, Hart Area Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m.

Pentwater Lake Association board to meet April 20

The Pentwater Lake Association board of directors will meet Monday, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Centenary Methodist Church at 82 N. Hancock St., Pentwater.

The public is invited to attend and is asked to enter at the Hancock Street Hall entrance.

Membership in the Pentwater Lake Association is open to all individuals interested in the lake, its natural resources and water quality. Members do not have to own lake property in order to join this nonprofit organization.

More details and past meeting minutes are available on the Pentwater Lake Association website at www.pentwaterlakeassociation.com.

Rollins-Edlund Scholarships applications available

Applications are available for a $500.00 Rollins-Edlund Scholarship. Scholarships are open to anyone, regardless of age, from Oceana County to further them in an education in any health-related field. The former Oceana Hospital Auxiliary continues to oversee the Rollins-Edlund Trust and selection of a worthy recipient in a health-related field. Information and applications are available by calling Karen Studer at 231873-3963 in April. Applications must be completed and returned to Karen by May 30, 2026.

IDEAS NOVEL IDEAS NOVEL

Show us your library joy

As the school year winds down and our community settles into a warmer, gentler spring season, the library is taking a moment to reflect, reconnect and look ahead to an exciting summer.

In celebration of National Library Week, April 19-25, we invite everyone — longtime patrons and first-time visitors alike — to “Show Us Your Library Joy!” Stop by the library to fill out a special card sharing what you love most about your library. Whether it’s a favorite author, a helpful service or a welcoming space, we want to hear from you. You’ll also have the opportunity to suggest books, programs and events you’d like to see in the future. Each day during National Library Week will feature a different prompt to help inspire your responses and highlight the many ways the library serves our community.

Behind the scenes, staff are busy preparing for the return of our summer residents and a full calendar of programs. We look forward to welcoming back our snowbirds and reconnecting with familiar faces while also meeting new visitors discovering the library for the first time.

Summer is our most vibrant season, filled with opportunities for all ages. This year, plans include author visits, live animal programs, and a wide variety of arts and crafts activities and a fun summer reading program no matter your age. There will truly be something for everyone to enjoy.

We invite the entire community to help us kick off the season on June 8, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a Summer Open House. Held outdoors between the library and the community garden, this event will bring together local nonprofits, community organizations and public service representatives. It’s a chance to learn about available resources, connect with local leaders and celebrate the start of summer together.

Even in this quieter season, your library remains a place for connection, creativity and community. We hope you’ll stop in, share your library joy and be part of everything to come..

Easter Alleluia!: Part 2 - ‘ He is Risen Indeed!’

By Janet Van Gunst Hasselbring

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

“At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid.” (John 19:41)

It’s fitting that Jesus was buried and rose from the dead in a garden, now known as the Garden Tomb in Jersualem.

“The best place to find God is in a garden. You can dig for Him there.” (George Bernard Shaw)

From Eden to Easter, gardens play a prominent role in God’s plan for the salvation of His people:

When He created Adam and Eve, from whose lineage Jesus would come, He placed them in the Garden of Eden; Jesus was betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, and God completed His plan by raising Jesus from the dead in the Garden Tomb.

It’s no wonder that “we’re closer to God in a garden than any other place on earth.” (Anon)

The garden has its “roots” in the ba-

sic human impulse to carve out a portion of the landscape and distinguish it from ordinary places. Its sacred import derives from the Indo-European word "sak," which means to separate, demarcate or divide. Sacred’s opposite is not secular, but the ordinary, from which it is set apart. While a garden’s components – rocks, walls, fences and ditches — are secular, it is their usefulness in setting apart that contributes to the sacred.

The term “Eden” still connotes harmony, innocence and unbroken communication with God; a paradise; pure delight.

It is in this context that Austin Miles wrote his famous hymn: “I come to the garden alone,

Walkerville Wesleyan Church

While the dew is still on the roses. And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, The Son of God discloses. And He walks with me, and He talks with me,

And He tells me I am His own.

And the joys we share as we tarry there,

None other has ever known."

Miles was describing Mary Magdalene’s encounter in the garden with her risen Lord, whom she initially mistakes for the gardener, after finding the stone rolled away and the tomb empty.

Miles intends for us to understand her encounter as one that can be experienced by anyone who meets Jesus in the daily comings and goings – the “gardens” of their lives.

“One day in March 1912,” Miles recalls, “I picked up my Bible. It opened to John 20 – the meeting of Jesus and Mary in the garden. As I read, I became part of the scene, a silent observer to the moment when Mary knelt before her Lord. Inspired by the vision, I wrote the words of the poem, and that evening composed the music.” (Forty Gospel Hymns, Sanville)

Mary Magdalene would have stayed

with her Lord in the garden, but Jesus bade her to go and tell the others that He was alive:

“I’d stay in the garden with Him, Though the night around me be falling,

But He bids me go through the voice of woe

His voice to me is calling.”

Amazingly, Jesus craves our affection and connection. He seeks our friendship, though it is unlike any other and should not be taken lightly.* In His presence, our sorrows turn into joy. We, like Mary, would stay with Him forever, but He bids us to go, take up the burdens of life, and tell others about Him, with the Easter promise that this life is not the end. Because He lives, we too will live with Him forever.

*In The Chronicles of Narnia, a series set in a magical realm featuring talking animals, mythical beasts and Christian themes, C.S. Lewis describes a meeting taking place between protagonists Lucy and Susan and the lion, Aslan, the God-figure in the novel: “Ooh,” says Susan, “I’d thought he {Aslan} was a man. Is He safe then? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.” “That you will dearie, and make no mistake,” replied Mrs. Beaver, “if there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking, they’re either braver than most or else just plain silly.”

Credit – Philosophy in the Garden, Young Note – For Easter Alleluia I, visit the Echo, April 3, 2026.

Love our community toward Christ Sunday 10:30 am Streamed on Safe Haven: Every Wed. 3-5 pm Open gym and showers available 231.873.5040

144 S Hamon St, Walkerville Office@walkervillewesleyanchurch.org

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Doris (Coon) Evans

March 18, 1936 ~ April 12, 2026

Doris (Coon) Evans passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026. She was born March 18, 1936, to Burton and Carrie (Scovill) Coon in Pentwater, Michigan.

Doris is survived by: her daughter, Kim Koster; son, Gregory (Marie) Hodges; bonus children, Marla (Scott) Kather, Vicky (James) Merills, Jackie (Richard) Merill and Lisa (Chad) Steendam; grandchildren, Eric Hodges and his children, Isaac Hodges and Sydni Hodges; Andrew (Cassandra) Hodges and their children, Jack Hodges and Lucy Hodges; James Hodges; and Lea (Wayne) Tye; as well as many bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Doris was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Roger Evans; daughter, Cindy Hodges Rowe; and siblings, George Coon, Joseph Coon, Larry Coon, Burton Coon, Margaret Kistler, Ann Gerber and Liz Pider.

Doris was a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Women’s Auxiliary. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1–3 p.m., Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the Oceana Eagles, 4535 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, MI 49420.

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

Robert Tubbs

January 29, 1954 ~ April 12, 2026

Robert "Bob" aka "Bubba" Tubbs age 72 passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and daughters April 12th, 2026 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born in Hart, Michigan January 29th, 1954 to Gary and Beverly Tubbs (Anderson). He came into this world the same time Gary made the winning shot on Hart's basketball team against North Muskegon. They announced it over the intercom there that Bob was born.

Bob's childhood was a good one surrounded in love with his parents, brother and four sisters. A lifelong resident of Hart, he grew up close with the neighborhood kids on Peach Street and was also tight knit with his cous ins, but especially the Anderson cousins. Bob was passionate about sports and grew up playing football, basketball and baseball into high school. He was an incredible athlete. He made All-Conference as a junior for football. He had a knee injury his freshman year that followed him his whole life but if you knew Bob, you knew he didn't let that stop him. He won everything and loved competition. He frequently told stories about getting into all sorts of shenanigans with his brother Dick, cousin Mike Swihart and his many best friends. He graduated Hart High School in 1972.

He met his wife Brenda when he was 21 and she was 17 and have been together ever since. They worked hard together and built a close family. She was the love of his life, as he was hers. They taught their girls the true meaning of marriage. He was a great son-in-law and was so close with Brenda's family, especially his brother-in-law Jeff.

To know Bob was to love Bob. He was a diehard Detroit Lions, Tigers and Michigan Wolverines fan. Every weekend in the fall you'd find him screaming at the Lions and cheering for the Maize and Blue. He went to many games over the years with Dick and passed his love of these teams to his girls. He was a proud Union Member of Labors Local 355 and worked hard for his family. Later in life, he found such joy coaching his daughter's soccer teams, being a "Dad" to their friends and teaching them all of life's lessons. You could find all three of them in the living room going over every game and he knew all the details despite never playing soccer in his life. As soon as they expressed interest in sports, he went full throttle. He loved walks to Russell Creek and drives to Lake Michigan. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend. He was a proud man and made friends wherever he went. He lived a life of virtue and will be missed by so many.

Bob is survived by his wife, together for 50 years Brenda, his daughters Nichole (Zach) and Allison (Evan), his grandchildren Lenny, Fitz and Norah, and his siblings Dick Tubbs (Laurie), Kathy VanBergen (Mickey), Karen Fransen (Kevin), Kris Farquhar (Ken) and Jenny French. He was preceded in death by his parents Gary and Bev, his cousin Mike Swihart and brother-in-law Jeff Ferris.

Visitation will be held Sunday, April 19 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Hart Christian Fellowship 408 South State Street Hart MI 49420. A celebration of life will be held at Hart Christian Fellowship Monday, April 20. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. with services beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Bill Ryder officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hart Public Schools Athletic Boosters. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Lela Rae Walker

Lela Rae Walker, 90, of Walkerville, passed away Sunday, April 12, 2026, at her home. She was born July 23, 1935, in Elberon, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Agnes (Kucera) Dvorak.

Lela taught for over 20 years, first in Elbridge and later at Ferry until her retirement. Afterwards, she volunteered at the Oceana Christian School for several years. In her spare time, Lela enjoyed traveling, sewing, tending to her flower gardens, reading and watching The Price Is Right.

Lela had been an active member of the Walkerville Wesleyan Church, which she helped build, served as the organist for many years, taught Sunday School, and went on Mission Trips, one of which involved taking Bibles to Russia.

Lela is survived by: three sons, Larry (Kendra) Walker, Jimmy (Randi) Walker and Freddy (Sheri) Walker; her son-in-law, John McGahan; 15 grandchildren, Melissa (Chris) Roberts, Jerry (Lindsey) Walker, Zeke (Victoria) Walker, Tori Walker, Josiah (Janessa Alvesteffer) Walker, Leah Walker, Amanda (Mark) Myers, Timothy Kies, Zachary (Cheyeanna) Kies, Lacie (Rick) Thrush, Megan Dodds, Zachary Dodds, Josh McGahan, Hannah (Nick) Kirwin and Abby (Charles) Hill; numerous great and great-great-grandchildren; and her beloved four-legged companion, Lady.

Lela was preceded in death by: her parents; her daughter, Kathy McGahan; her daughter-in-law, Kathleen Walker; and her beloved dog, Toby.

A celebration of Lela’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Walkerville Wesleyan Church, with Pastor Bob Abbott and Pastor Caleb Kimball officiating. The family will receive friends at the church Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of services.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Oceana Christian School. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Alan Roy Moulds

November 18, 1961 ~ April 14, 2026

Alan Roy Moulds, 64, of Mears, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, after battling cancer. Born on November 18, 1961, in Lake City, Iowa, Alan lived a life filled with love, dedication, and adventure.

Alan was a devoted husband and best friend to his wife of 40 years, Sharon. Together they built a life centered on family and shared experiences. He was a proud father of two sons, Andrew and his wife Mary, and Ryan and his wife Naomi. Alan is also survived by: his parents, Mel Moulds (wife, Carol) and Beverly Hollenbeck; his sisters, Sandy Dole and Renee Hagan; multiple nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles; and his beloved dogs, Maxwell, Maggie, and Maisey - who brought him immense joy.

Alan’s career reflected his deep expertise in men’s footwear. Over the years, he worked for Nordstroms, Allen Edmonds, Red Wing Shoes, as well as several family-owned shoe stores. His knowledge and professionalism earned him respect from colleagues and customers alike.

Beyond his work, Alan embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He enjoyed fishing, bicycling, camping, golfing, walking, kayaking, and exploring National Parks. He also had a passion for learning new skills in carpentry that allowed him to update the family home and decks, endeavors that highlighted his resourcefulness and determination.

Alan will be remembered as a faithful husband, loving father and supportive friend who enriched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May his legacy for love and kindness bring comfort to those he leaves behind.

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

Obituary Information:

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

• When your cut up fruit is about to expire and you don’t think you’ll be able to eat it in time, just freeze it for smoothies. Lay it out in a single layer and pop it in the freezer. When it’s frozen you can put it in a zip-top baggie for easy storage.

By Lucie Winborne

• Australia is wider than the moon.

• The Cowardly Lion’s costume in 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” was made from actual lion skins and fur, and weighed roughly 60 pounds.

By Lucie Winborne

• Australia is wider than the moon.

• Nobody knows who invented the fire hydrant — its patent was lost in a fire!

YORK, NY 10019

By JoAnn Derson

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260406 FOR RELEASE APRIL 6, 2026

257

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW

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

By Lucie Winborne

YORK, NY 10019

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260406

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

• On April 20, 1871, Congress passed the Third Enforcement Act, aka the Ku Klux Klan Act, which authorized President Ulysses S. Grant to declare martial law, impose heavy penalties and use military force to suppress terrorist organizations, in particular the Ku Klux Klan.

FOR RELEASE APRIL 6, 2026

257

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 257

By Lucie Winborne

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260406

FOR RELEASE APRIL 6, 2026

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260406 FOR RELEASE APRIL 6, 2026

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20260406 FOR RELEASE APRIL 6, 2026

By JoAnn Derson

By Lucie Winborne

• On April 21, 1794, Josephine de Beauharnais, the future Empress of France and first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, was imprisoned during the Reign of Terror. Released five days after the beheading of her then husband Alexandre de Beauharnais, her marriage to Napoleon ended in divorce after she failed to provide him an heir, but he continued to provide for her, declared her “Empress for life” and allowed her to retain the title of Empress Josephine.

• On April 22, 1915, German forces fired more than 150 tons of lethal chlorine gas at two French colonial divisions in Ypres, Belgium. It was the first major such attack by the Germans and devastated the Allied line.

• On April 23, 1961, Judy Garland delivered a Carnegie Hall performance that was greeted by a standing ovation before she even began to sing and was interrupted throughout by additional ovations. That performance has often been lauded as “the greatest night in showbiz history.”

• On April 24, 1953, Winston Churchill was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. He retired as prime minister two years later but remained in Parliament until 1964, the year before his death.

• On April 25, 1989, James Richardson was released from a Florida prison 21 years after being wrongfully convicted of murdering his seven children. Special prosecutor Janet Reno had agreed to the release after evidence showed his conviction resulted from misconduct by the prosecutor. His neighbor, Betsy Reese, confessed to the crime.

• On April 26, 2012, former Liberian president Charles Taylor was found guilty of abetting horrific war crimes, including rape and mutilation, in Sierra Leone. His conviction was the first for war crimes by a former head of state in an international court since the Nuremberg trials of Nazi leaders after World War II.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

FERRY TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Zoning Variance – Dolphie Eisenlohr

A public hearing before the Ferry Township Zoning Board of Appeals will be held on Thursday, May 7th, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., at the Ferry Township Hall, located at 3222 Green Street (north of the Fire Barn), in the village of Ferry, MI. The Ferry Township Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a Zoning Variance application submitted by Dolphie Eisenlohr for a variance on parcel 64-013-004-200-04, owned Dolphie Eisenloher. The application is on file in the Township Clerk’s offices at 3222 Green Street, Shelby MI 49455. Written and oral comments regarding the application will be received until the conclusion of the public hearing. Written comments may be addressed to the Ferry Township Clerk. The Township office building is barrier-free. Attendees requiring additional accommodations should notify the Township Clerk (231-861-0545) at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.

• If it’s garage sale time, try this trick: Wrap a picture frame tightly with tulle. Then you can hang earrings from the tulle. Maybe someone will think it’s so cute that you’ll sell the frame!

• “Do you have a lot of coffee mugs? Maybe it’s time you show them off! My granny has so many coffee mugs from trips and that she got as presents. My daddy put up five long shelves in one wall of her kitchen. They are the perfect place to line up and display all the mugs, and each one has a story, which is fun to hear.” — F.E. in North Carolina

• “My wife saw a picture of a narrow shelving unit on wheels that fits in the space between your fridge and the wall. It’s really cool, and I made it for her. It’s so handy that I made another one for my shop. I can store cans and small containers of shop supplies, and I repurposed her spice rack for my mostused hardware.” — J.C. in Florida

• “I have three girls and one bathroom, so there’s no way anyone gets “ready” in front of the bathroom mirror at my house. Instead, all the girls have a hanging shoe rack on the back of their door for makeup and hair supplies, and a mirror on the wall.” — P.W. in Oregon

• Stubborn stains in the toilet? Try dropping in a few denture tablets in the evening before bed, then scrub and flush in the morning.

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810.

• Stubborn stains in the toilet? Try dropping in a few denture tablets in the evening before bed, then scrub and flush in the morning.

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810.

2026

Synd., Inc.

OC ANIMAL SHELTER

William is an 8-year-old neutered male who proves that age is just a number! This sweet, adventurous boy still has plenty of energy and loves to be part of the action. He gets along well with other dogs, does great with kids, and absolutely loves giving kisses — so if you’re not a fan of doggy smooches, he may not be your perfect match!

William can be a little shy around men at first, but with a few treats and a little patience, he warms up quickly and shows his affectionate, loyal personality. He truly is a gentle, loving companion who just wants to be by your side.

If you’re looking for a fun-loving, affectionate companion and are ready to give William the safe, loving home he deserves, please call the shelter with any questions or to meet him. William 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

• The Cowardly Lion’s costume in 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” was made from actual lion skins and fur, and weighed roughly 60 pounds.

By Lucie Winborne

• Australia is wider than the moon.

By Lucie Winborne

• When 300,000 people walked across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge in observance of its 50th anniversary on May 24, 1987, the iconic structure sagged seven feet.

• Australia is wider than the moon.

• Nobody knows who invented the fire hydrant — its patent was lost in a fire!

• The Cowardly Lion’s costume in 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” was made from actual lion skins and fur, and weighed roughly 60 pounds.

• A single orange tree can have over 60,000 flowers, but less than 1% will turn into fruit.

• When 300,000 people walked across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge in observance of its 50th anniversary on May 24, 1987, the iconic structure sagged seven feet.

• Nobody knows who invented the fire hydrant — its patent was lost in a fire!

• The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, is mentioned more times in the Quran than in the Bible, and is also the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran.

• When 300,000 people walked across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge in observance of its 50th anniversary on May 24, 1987, the iconic structure sagged seven feet.

• A single orange tree can have over 60,000 flowers, but less than 1% will turn into fruit.

• When 300,000 people walked across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge in observance of its 50th anniversary on May 24, 1987, the iconic structure sagged seven feet.

• Japanese runner Shizo Kanakuri “finished” the 1912 Olympic marathon in 1967 with an unforgettable end time of 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes and 20.3 seconds.

• The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, is mentioned more times in the Quran than in the Bible, and is also the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran.

• A single orange tree can have over 60,000 flowers, but less than 1% will turn into fruit.

• The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, is mentioned more times in the Quran than in the Bible, and is also the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran.

• After the story of a California prison inmate who gave his paycheck of $17.74 for more than 130 hours of labor to relief work in Gaza went viral, donors raised over $100,000 for him.

• Japanese runner Shizo Kanakuri “finished” the 1912 Olympic marathon in 1967 with an unforgettable end time of 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes and 20.3 seconds.

• The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, is mentioned more times in the Quran than in the Bible, and is also the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran.

• Japanese runner Shizo Kanakuri “finished” the 1912 Olympic marathon in 1967 with an unforgettable end time of 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes and 20.3 seconds.

• Sleeping through summer is known as estivation.

• After the story of a California prison inmate who gave his paycheck of $17.74 for more than 130 hours of labor to relief work in Gaza went viral, donors raised over $100,000 for him.

• Cicadas have been known to confuse the roar of power tools for mating calls and sometimes even swarm people using lawn mowers.

• Japanese runner Shizo Kanakuri “finished” the 1912 Olympic marathon in 1967 with an unforgettable end time of 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes and 20.3 seconds.

• Sleeping through summer is known as estivation.

• After the story of a California prison inmate who gave his paycheck of $17.74 for more than 130 hours of labor to relief work in Gaza went viral, donors raised over $100,000 for him.

• Hay-on-Wye in Wales is home to the famous Honesty Bookshop, an outdoor book market with a collection box instead of a cashier.

• Cicadas have been known to confuse the roar of power tools for mating calls and sometimes even swarm people using lawn mowers.

• After the story of a California prison inmate who gave his paycheck of $17.74 for more than 130 hours of labor to relief work in Gaza went viral, donors raised over $100,000 for him.

• Marshmallows are about 50% air.

• Sleeping through summer is known as estivation.

Prisoners are more likely to be granted parole if their hearing is held thing in the morning rather than at the end of the day.

• Hay-on-Wye in Wales is home to the famous Honesty Bookshop, an outdoor book market with a collection box instead of a cashier.

• Cicadas have been known to confuse the roar of power tools for mating calls and sometimes even swarm people using lawn mowers.

• Marshmallows are about 50% air.

***

• Cicadas have been known to confuse the roar of power tools for mating calls and sometimes even swarm people using lawn mowers.

• Hay-on-Wye in Wales is home to the famous Honesty Bookshop, an outdoor book market with a collection box instead of a cashier.

• Prisoners are more likely to be granted parole if their hearing is held first thing in the morning rather than at the end of the day.

***

• Marshmallows are about 50% air.

• Prisoners are more likely to be granted parole if their hearing is held first thing in the morning rather than at the end of the day.

***

OC ANIMAL FRIENDS

Meet Felicity, a sweet soul ready to bring warmth and love into your life! At just 3 years old and a dainty 5 pounds, this charming brown tabby is a Domestic Medium Hair with a heart full of love to give. Can you believe this precious girl was left to fend for herself after being declawed on all four feet? She was found wandering outside, searching for food, but now she’s looking for a safe haven where she can truly shine. Felicity is a bit shy in the shelter, but don’t let that fool you! Underneath that timid exterior is a delightful companion who craves attention and affection. She dreams of a quiet home, perhaps with a single person or a retired couple who can provide the love and comfort she deserves. This lovely lady gets along well with other cats, so if you have feline friends, she may just be the perfect addition to your family. Let’s help Felicity find her forever home where she can feel safe and cherished. If you

Mr. B's Blues & Boogie Piano Celebration up next for Performing Arts Series

The Hart Community Performing Arts Series will present Mr. B's Blues and Boogie Piano Celebration on Friday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Hart Public School's Auditorium.

Blues and boogie-woogie pianist Mark Lincoln Braun has become one of the premiere purveyors of a vanishing art. Having learned his craft first-hand from the early masters, he is a rare living link to the first generation of blues and boogie pianists. Steeped in the rich legacy of this tremendously exciting music, Mr. B learned directly from blues and boogie legends like Little Brother Montgomery, Boogie Woogie Red and Blind John Davis. In demand for both educational programs and concert performances, he has performed coast to coast and throughout Europe, Canada, Mexico and South America. In 2002, he was a guest artist at the Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival. He is also the organizer of the annual Mr. B's Blues and Boogie Piano Celebration that attracts major figures in the blues and jazz piano world to Ann Arbor for collaborative performances with Mr. B. Braun was born and raised in Flint, Michigan. He gravitated to Ann Arbor in the '70s, where the Blind Pig was an important venue for boogie and blues piano. While absorbing the tradition and developing his own approach, Mr. B was also listening to a variety of jazz pianists, especially those with strong blues roots such as Ray Bryant and Horace Silver. This broad range of interests enables him to feel equally at home playing boogie-woogie classics with authentic fervor and expanding the tradition into lively new settings, including jazz orchestra. Today he further promotes his art and breaks down stylistic barriers by frequently collaborating with such world-renowned mainstream jazz pianists as Monty Alexander, Henry Butler, Benny Green, Ray Bryant, Sir Charles Thompson and Junior Mance. He has appeared on numerous National Public Radio broadcasts, including “Mountain Stage,” “Good Evening,” “Our Front Porch,” “The Flea Market,” “At the Bride” and “All Things Considered.” Mr. B's many critically acclaimed recordings also demonstrate his breadth and originality. His most recent, for which Mr. B assembled nine noted Ann Arbor-area pianists and which benefits youth in the arts and athletics, is “9 Pianists – Our Town, Our Time.” “Live at the Kerrytown Concert House” shows the

solo pianist playing original takes on blues and boogie standards while “Joybox” features him stretching out on his own compositions supported by bass and drums. With legendary jazz greats J. C. Heard and Marcus Belgrave, he recorded “Partners in Time.” His recording of trios and duets (“My Sunday Best”) features the renowned be-bop drummer Roy Brooks. Mr. B's collaboration with the 15-piece Bird of Paradise Orchestra (“Hallelujah Train”) has produced an original and explosive blend of boogie, blues and big band jazz. Most recently he has collaborated in the studio with some of today's premiere blues artists, including John Hammond (“Found True Love”), Duke Robillard (“Dangerous Place”) and Big Bill Morganfield (“Ramblin' Mind”) among many others.

Today, few are devoted to playing boogie and blues piano. Fortunately, Mr. B's passion for showcasing and extending the tradition makes him a major exponent of an essential form of American music. As noted by Jazz News International, “The future of blues piano is in good hands with Mr. B."

Mr. B will be joined for this Piano Celebration by two other incredibly talented pianists. Demetrius “Krayon” Nabors is a prominent pianist, composer, producer and arranger, celebrated in both the Detroit area and the national contemporary jazz scene. His music reflects a rich tapestry of influences, including gospel, jazz, classical and blues, all of which are evident in his compositions and performances. A twotime winner of the Detroit Music Award for Outstanding Gospel/Christian Musician, Demetrius holds both

Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Jazz Studies from the University of Michigan. His talents have taken him to stages in Europe and Africa, as well as to national television, including a memorable appearance on the former “Arsenio Hall” show.

His exceptional skills have drawn the attention of numerous high-profile artists, including R&B singer KEM, flutist Althea Rene, guitarist Tim Bowman and trumpeter Willie Bradley. Demetrius’s productions have achieved notable success on the Billboard charts, including two #1 hits for KEM’s singles “Nobody” and “It’s You” (2014), a #2 for Willie Bradley’s “It’s On Now” (2020), a #5 for Althea Rene’s “Barbara Mae” (2019) and a #1 for Tim Bowman’s “Fireball” (2021).

Additionally, “Nobody” was nominated for Best Traditional R&B Performance at the 57th Grammy Awards. He thrives on the energy of live performance, a passion that shines through in his music and resonates deeply with his dedicated fan base. In addition to Demetrius, Mr. B is pleased to present a very special "surprise guest pianist" who will be coming from Rome, Italy, to appear in the Ann Arbor Celebration and for this special concert in Hart.

Tickets for the concert are available at the Series website, hartseries.org. For further information, contact Artistic Director Tom Kirk at tomkirk@hartseries. org.

OCF and Baker College formalize new partnership to help adult learners

The Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) and Baker College today announced a new partnership designed to expand educational access, increase degree completion and strengthen the regional workforce. The collaboration was formally established through the signing of a Complete Your

Degree (CYD) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at a brief ceremony held Wednesday, April 8 at Baker College in Muskegon. This new MOU expands student choice regionally, building on OCF's collaboration with Muskegon Community College and West Shore Community College since the pro-

Notice

Special Election Tuesday, May 5, 2026

gram’s launch in 2022.

The agreement connects eligible Baker College students from Oceana County with OCF’s Complete Your Degree program, which provides targeted support to help adult learners overcome financial and life barriers that can prevent them from finishing a college credential.

Special Election Tuesday, May 5, 2026

To the Qualified Electors of the County of Oceana, State of Michigan

Notice is Hereby Given, that a Special Election will be held in the County of Oceana, State of Michigan, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in said Townships as indicated below, vis:

Local Proposals to be Voted on:

Please Take Notice that the following school districts will be voting on the following millage proposals as presented and listed below

Please Take Notice that the following school districts will be voting on the following millage proposals as presented and listed below HART PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MILLAGE PROPOSAL

“At Baker College, we’ve seen firsthand that students need more than tuition assistance to successfully complete their degrees,” President of Baker College Dr. Jacqui Spicer said. “Through this partnership, Baker College students from Oceana County may be eligible to apply for the Foundation’s Complete Your Degree program, gaining access to the additional support they need to cross the finish line.”

HART PUBLIC SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 20 MILLS FOR 13 YEARS

PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 20 MILLS FOR 13 YEARS

Full text of the ballot proposition may be obtained at the administrative offices of Hart Public Schools, 301 West Johnson Street, Hart, Michigan 49420-1081, telephone: (231) 873-6214

WEST SHORE COMMUNITY COLLEGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT MILLAGE PROPOSITION

AUTHORIZING 0.9604 MILL ($0.9604 PER $1,000) FOR TEN (10) YEARS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

OCF’s Complete Your Degree program focuses on students who have some college experience or want to start college but face challenges that may disrupt their educational progress. The program offers last-dollar financial assistance, dedicated coaching, academic advising, and clear pathways to credential completion — support designed to carry students from enrollment through graduation, not just at entry.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to educational access, completion, and workforce success,” OCF Executive Director Tammy Carey said. “Too many capable adults leave college just short of their goals — not because of ability, but because of financial, family or life challenges. Complete Your Degree exists to remove those barriers and help learners move forward with confidence.”

The full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the president’s office of West Shore Community College, 3000 N Stiles Rd Scottville, Michigan 49454, Telephone: (231) 843-5802

To request an AV Ballot, please contact your Local Township Clerk or online at https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us

THE POLLS OF SAID ELECTION WILL BE OPEN AT 7:00 A M UNTIL 8:00 P M OF SAID DAY OF ELECTION AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

COLFAX TOWNSHIP

Joni Gerard

5594 N 192nd Ave

Walkerville, MI 49459

PH: (231) 742-8216

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

Jana Boundy

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Rachel Iteen 5527 W Fox Rd , Mears, MI 49436

WEARE TOWNSHIP

Baker College was identified as another ideal partner due to its strong track record of serving adult learners pursuing high-demand careers and its emphasis on flexible pathways, recognition of prior learning, and wraparound student support services. Together, OCF and its three institutional partners are creating a coordinated approach to reduce college stop-outs and increase degree completion.

Rachel Iteen 5527 W Fox Rd , Mears, MI 49436 PH: (231) 873-4413

WEARE TOWNSHIP

PH: (231) 873-4413

HART TOWNSHIP

Melanie Sayles 6506 N Oceana Dr , Hart, MI 49420 PH: (231) 873-0144

Melanie Sayles 6506 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 873-0144

“A completed degree doesn’t just change an individual’s life,” Carey added. “It strengthens families, supports employers and contributes to the long-term economic stability of our community. This partnership is an investment with lasting returns for Oceana County and the surrounding region.”

Jana Boundy 1499 E Hammett Rd , Hart, MI 49420

1499 E Hammett Rd , Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 301-4610

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Stephanie VanSickle 2266 E Polk Rd , Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 873-4740

Stephanie VanSickle 2266 E Polk Rd , Hart, MI 49420 PH: (231) 873-4740

Steve Freed 3437 W Polk Rd , Hart, MI 49420 PH: (231) 873-2734

CITY OF HART

Steve Freed 3437 W Polk Rd , Hart, MI 49420 PH: (231) 873-2734

CITY OF HART

Karla Swihart 407 S State St , Hart, MI 49420 PH: (231) 923-0012

NOTICE TO THE VOTERS OF OCEANA COUNTY:

Notice is hereby given that Public Accuracy Testing for the May 5, 2026, Special Election is scheduled as follows:

Notice is hereby given that Public Accuracy Testing for the May 5, 2026, Special Election

Oceana City of Hart Tuesday Apr 21 10:30 AM

Melanie A Coon

Oceana County Clerk

The signing ceremony included remarks from both organizations, the formal execution of the agreement, and a photo opportunity recognizing the collaboration. It concluded with informal conversations and refreshments provided by the Culinary Institute of Michigan.

“This MOU is more than an agreement—it’s a promise,” said Carey. “A promise to learners that their goals matter and that their community believes in them. The real impact will be seen when students walk across the stage.”

For more information about the Complete Your Degree program, visit www.oceanafoundation.org

Tammy Carey and Dr. Jacqui Spicer celebrate the signing of their new Complete Your Degree partnership.

County rec programs ready for spring soccer season

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

It’s spring, and with that comes the annual tradition of Saturday morning rec club soccer games at athletic complexes across the county. Sign-ups for Hart, Pentwater, Shelby and Walkerville have already taken place, with practices underway now. Below, find out more if you're interested in attending a game, supporting your local recreation program (financial donations are always welcome), or volunteering.

The Hart Rec Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to offer the following sports to children living in the Hart Public School district: basketball, baseball/softball, cheer, football and soccer. Registration is complete for the spring soccer season. Please visit their website, www. hartrec.com to create an account and register children for upcoming summer and fall sports opportunities.

Games will be held ev-

ery Saturday from April 18 to May 30 (with no games Memorial Day weekend) at the Norman E. Kuhne Recreation Park located at 3986 N. Oceana Dr. in Hart. Hart Rec Club board meetings are held on the first Monday of the month, all year long, starting at 6 p.m. at Diman Wolf Early Childhood Center, 306 Johnson St. in Hart. The Hart Rec Board is led by Victoria Gutierrez, Chairperson; Tim Hertzler, Vice-Chairperson (Hart Public Schools); Jill Tanis, Secretary (Hart Township); Rob Splane, Treasurer (At Large 1); Adam Sinclair (At Large 2); Matthew Fitch (At Large 3); and Laurie Rose (At Large 4). Other board members include Roberta Cooke, Joanne Hambright, Jonathan Hughart, Kyle Oomen and Jessica Rudolph.

Individual sports directors include: Mike Rudolf - boys basketball; Eva Flores - girls basketball; Janessa Kelleysoccer; Mistee Saunders - summer ball; Scott Umstead - football; and Me-

Correction

In the article “Tiger Athletic Community Center readies for soft opening next month” on the front page of the April 10, 2026 edition of The Oceana Echo, it should have been noted that the Orthopedic Associates of Muskegon i'move physical therapy program will be leasing space inside the stateof-the-art building. It was mistakenly reported that this was for Orthopedic Associates of Michigan. Project Manager Audra Troccko brought this to the Echo's attention, adding that this is their 13th clinic. Troccko also said that while this location is larger than three of their satellite facilities, this will not be their largest, as it is equivalent to two of their current satellite locations. The Oceana Echo apologizes for the errors and wishes Orthopedic Associates of Muskegon all the best.

gan Foster - cheer.

The Pentwater Rec Club, now under the direction of the Pentwater Public Schools, offers children the opportunity to participate in spring soccer, summer baseball and softball, and winter boys and girls basketball. Registration packets for each sport are sent home with Pentwater students, however, anyone wanting to register who is not currently a student is welcome to stop by the school for one.

“When the conversation about having the school run the program first came about, I think it was a natural choice. It is a change for sure. Even when I was a kid, the rec program was run through the village, but with the schools' facilities being used and the opportunity to start fresh, it's an exciting time for youth sports in Pentwater. It is important for us to build up our children not only athletically and with a sense of sportsmanship, (but also to) keep the youth in our rec programs to build a stronger community,”

Pentwater School Superintendent Craig Barter said.

To learn more about Pentwater’s spring soccer season, please visit the school’s website at pentwaterschools.net or Pentwater Public Schools on Facebook.

The Shelby Rec programs offer a variety of athletic opportunities for all area youth. This year the program is back under the direction of the club’s former director, Damien Omness. Please visit the club’s Facebook page at “Shelby Rec Club” for more information and program updates.

Spring soccer games will be held beginning Saturday, April 18, at the Shelby Township Community Park located at 4101 Buchanan Rd. in Shelby, just north and east of the village.

The Walkerville Rec Club Program received their 501(c)(3) status in September of 2025 and is led by a board with Deanna Bajtka as president. Any Pre-K through 8th grade student is welcome to join the Walker-

Weare Township is seeking a motivated person to carry out Sexton duties. Experience is not required, however good customer relations is a key, along with organizational skills and record keeping. This person coordinates with the clerk and funeral homes to work with the community members during their time of need. The rate of pay for this position is per burial. Interested individuals should contact the township clerk at (231)730-0071 or email weareclerk@gmail.com. Please mail resume to Weare Township 6506 N. Oceana Drive Hart, MI. 49420

ville Rec Club.

Current sports being offered include cheer (grades 1st-5th) during basketball season, girls basketball (grades 3rd5th), boys basketball (grades 3rd-5th), soccer (co-ed) (grades PK-5th) and summer ball (co-ed) (grades PK-8th).

“Soccer games are coordinated by the Hart Rec Club, but other than that, the Walkerville Rec Club is its own entity, with its own board, Facebook page and operating pro-

JOB

POSTING

cedures,” said Bajtka. For more information about Walkerville’s recreation program, please visit “Walkerville Youth Recreation Sports” on Facebook. At present, Hesperia does not have an active recreation program. However, anyone with questions or interest in helping should reach out via the “Hesperia Area Chamber of Commerce” Facebook page or by emailing hacc1866@ gmail.com.

Weare Township is seeking a motivated person to carry out various maintenance duties such as repairs to the township hall, cemetery and maintenance sheds among other tasks within the township. The rate of pay for this position is $30.00 per hour.

Interested individuals should contact the township clerk at (231) 730-0071 or email weareclerk@gmail.com. Please mail resume to Weare Township 6506 N. Oceana Drive Hart, MI. 49420

Players across multiple age groups in the Hart Rec Club soccer program enjoy the sunny, warm weather during their practices Monday, April 13. • Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

Pirate boys defend home turf, win Hart & Sole

Lorenz wins 4 events; Hart girls take 3rd while Walkerville sets 18 PRs in meet

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

HART — The Hart boys’ team defended its home turf Saturday with a victory at the Pirates’ annual Hart and Sole Music Invitational, which featured eight teams.

The Pirates scored 121.5 points, beating out runner-up Traverse City St. Francis, which had 99 points. The Hart girls finished third behind Ludington and St. Francis. Walkerville also competed, placing seventh in the girls’ meet.

Chase Lorenz picked up wins in all three sprint events for the Pirates, including setting a personal best in the 400-meter dash, where his time was 49.71 seconds. Lorenz also recorded times of 11.31 seconds in the 100 and 23.29 in the 200. He also helped the 1,600 relay team to a win, joining Lyric Fielder, Bryce Vander Kodde and Jack Slotman to take a time of 3:33.3.

Fielder added a win for Hart in the 300 hurdles, posting a time of 41.92 seconds.

Second-place Pirates were Trevor

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Vander Kodde in the high jump (510), Slotman in the pole vault (10-0) and the two sprint relays. Julian Tejada, Elon Babbin, Lucas Edwards and Pablo Ortega-Rubio was the 400 relay team (47.46), and the 800 team was Babbin, Ortega-Rubio, Bryce Vander Kodde and Jaxson Oomen (1:37.5).

Taking third for Hart were Grant Ackley in the pole vault (10-0), Silas Ackley in the 3,200 (10:24.1), Slotman in the 400 (54.46), and the 3,200 relay team of Mason Opalewski, Owen VanderVlucht, Grant Ackley and Trevor Vander Kodde (8:54.0).

Hart’s girls team took three wins. Joselyn Flores won the high jump (50), Shelbie Choponis set a personal best to win the discus (119-11.5) and

Alaina Schaner won the 800-meter run (2:38.2). Choponis also took second in the shot put (30-7), and Lauren Hopkins was second in pole vault (8-6). Ellie Gross finished second in the 100 hurdles (17.78), and Addison Hain was second in the 400 (1:03.9). The 400 relay team of Lilian Payne, Chloe Simpson, Ashlyn Smith and Lilianna Camacho placed second (57.39), as did the 800 team of Gross, Camacho, Flores and Emery Velat (1:58.4).

Hain also finished third in the 100 (13.46), and the Pirate distance relays each finished third. The 1,600 team was Velat, Hain, Flores and Natalie Rosema (4:34.99) and the 3,200 team was Martina Saenz, Emma Miller, Schaner and Rosema (10:44.8).

Isabel Babbin brought home Walkerville’s top finish at the meet, placing third in shot put (29-8). She

Hart & Sole continued on page 13

Tigers edge Whitehall in defensive battle

By Andy Roberts

Contributor

WHITEHALL — With both Whitehall and Shelby being down one of their top offensive weapons due to out-of-town trips, Monday’s West Michigan Conference opener took on the tenor of a defensive battle - not much different than the team’s tie a year ago.

This time, though, the visiting Tigers were able to make one more big play, as Annabelle Stark chased down an excellent through-ball from teammate Kylee Hanson and put away a goal in the first half. The score proved to be the difference in a 1-0 Tigers’ victory.

“It’s a sigh of relief when you can get on the board early and just break that ice,” Shelby coach Joe Gorton said. “Last year, it was one of our biggest struggles was consistently finding offense, so being able to score early in these first couple of games is an encouraging sign.

“Annie made a great run and a great finish, but it was the play to Annie (from Hanson) that really set that in motion.”

The Tigers were missing senior Kylie Brown, who was out of town, as was Whitehall senior Kate Beda. For Shelby, that necessitated a tweaked lineup that put a few girls out of their normal position. Gorton said the ad-

justed lineup “lost some speed” compared to the usual one, but helped the Tigers keep the offense looking as close as possible to the one they wanted to field.

“Our mids are doing a really good job of keeping their eyes up and taking advantage of that speed, because we do have some speed on the top end that we’re looking to exploit when we can,” Gorton said.

Shelby controlled the action for the bulk of the first half, despite only getting the one goal. The second half was much more evenly played, but the Tiger defense was very strong and did not force keeper Brylee Friedman into many stressful saves. Whitehall’s best scoring opportunity was on a free kick just outside the box, which

caromed off the crossbar and out of harm’s way.

Gorton credited his defensive lineup, including Sydney Reed, Ava Lamberg, Ariana Garza, and Adelyn Kelley for standing tall amid the Vikings’ late pushes.

“My defense played absolutely phenomenal,” Gorton said. “We’ve stressed communication and positioning with those back defenders, and they really did a good job. I didn’t really feel too antsy. I really felt like they were in solid position. They

covered each other while my wings played back and helped when they needed to, so really, on the back end, we were in midseason form there.”

With both teams having less speed on the field than usual, the plan was to attack from the middle and go to the outside, a strategy the Tigers ran well through much of the game. There was likely some rust - Whitehall was on spring break last week, and while

on page 13

Hart’s Chase Lorenz closes in on the finish line of Saturday’s Hart and Sole Music Invitational. Lorenz won the race, one of four wins for him in the Pirates’ team victory.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Hart’s Joselyn Flores leaps over the high jump bar during Saturday’s Hart and Sole Music Invitational. Flores won the event.

The Oceana Echo Community

Whitehall’s Ally Gardner and Shelby’s Fernanda Espinosa converge on a loose ball during Monday’s game at Whitehall. The Tigers won, 1-0. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby wins continued

Shelby’s Michelle Peterson keeps possession of the ball as Whitehall’s Izzy Causie goes after her on defense during Monday’s game at Whitehall. The Tigers won the game, 1-0. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Falcons split with Brethren in season opener

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

PENTWATER — Pentwater split its season-opening doubleheader against West Michigan D League foe Brethren last Thursday, taking game one 9-5 and losing a back-and-forth battle in game two, 14-12.

The Falcon bats were strong early, scoring all nine of their game-one runs in the first three innings. Pentwater scored three times in the first by taking advantage of five walks and a hit batter. Amelia Barter laced a RBI double in the second inning. In the third, Grace Riggs smashed a RBI triple and Karina Olivarez drove in two runs with a double.

Olivarez was one of three Falcons

with two hits each in game one, and she drove in three runs. Riggs and Lauren Davis also each got two hits, and Charlie Swanger drew walks in all four of her plate appearances. Aubrie Adams got the win, allowing eight hits and striking out five.

Pentwater trailed 9-1 in the third inning of game two before rallying, but Brethren was able to hang on for the win. After the Falcons got the score to 9-6 in the fourth inning, Brethren responded with a five-run fifth. Pentwater then rallied to score six in the bottom of the fifth before the game was called for darkness.

The Falcons drew 13 walks in the nightcap. Barter got two hits, and Adams hit a double. Swanger scored three runs.

Untimely miscues hurt Falcons in losses to Brethren

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

PENTWATER — Pentwater struggled with fielding miscues last Thursday in its season-opening doubleheader against West Michigan D League opponent Brethren, dropping games by scores of 7-6 and 19-7.

Game one was the one that got away for the Falcons, who scored four times in the third inning to grab a 5-1 lead. They took that lead on consecutive RBI singles by Kyle Oomen and Ben Wisenbaugh and a bases-loaded walk by Bennett Bane.

Brethren, though, came back with six runs in the fifth and final inning, fueled by Falcon fielding miscues. The Bobcats ripped consecutive RBI singles to grab the lead and added

Shelby wins

an insurance run later in the inning.

Jamison Clark’s RBI double in the bottom of the inning put the Falcons in position to tie it up, but Brethren pitcher Chase Schmidt was able to get a strikeout to preserve his team’s win.

Oomen had two hits for the Falcons, and Ben Roberson scored two runs.

In game two, Brethren, again helped by some Pentwater errors, raced to a 14-1 lead. While the Falcons attempted to come back later in the game, they couldn’t get close enough to avoid a mercy-rule defeat.

Abram Kieda paced the Pentwater offense with three hits, including a double, and had three RBI. Wisenbaugh added two hits, and Oomen scored three times.

Roberts/Echo

Hart & Sole

doubleheader at Pentwater.

continued from page 12

the Tigers were not, they did not have a scheduled game - but the energy was there.

Part of that energy, Gorton said, may have been the result of some “intramural rivalries,” as several players on each side play club soccer together in the offseason so are quite familiar with one another.

“There are a couple of our girls who were pretty keyed up tonight, and were, I think, more nervous than normal because they wanted to make some things happen,” Gorton said. “It’s good to have those experiences and get that first win in the conference under our belts.”

Especially with Whitehall being a larger school, and one the Tigers had to settle for the tie with a year ago, scoring the early WMC win should be a confidence boost as the league schedule continues.

“It’s huge,” Gorton said. “Knowing that we can step up and play against these bigger

schools is always a good motivator. We can al-

continued from page 12

ways go home and talk about that.”

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting

April 8, 2026

Supervisor Cavazos called the March 11th Regular Township Board meeting and Public Hearing on Budget to order at 6:00 p.m. with all five Board members present. The meeting was conducted in person and via Zoom. Two staff members and three community members were present in person. One person was present via Zoom. The Consent Agenda was approved as presented, and the Meeting Agenda was approved with revision. Action/acceptance was taken on the following items:

• South sanitary sewer system rate increase

• Ordinance regulating use of public & private sanitary sewer system

• Contract for spring & summer lawn care

• Longbridge fishing dock box repair

• 2025-2026 Recreation Program agreement

• Friends of Pentwater Township Transfer Station & Recycling Center

• Days of operation for Pentwater Township Transfer Station & Recycling Center

• Treasurer attendance at MMTA Advanced Institute Conference

• Ratification of Michigan Township Association Principals of Governance for Township

• Planning & Zoning Summer Intern

• Summer roadwork plans

• Contract renewal for annual audit services – current & longer term

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

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

Maureen Murphy, Clerk

PUBLIC NOTICE

Golden Township

In accordance with Section 19.4 of the Golden Township Zoning Ordinance a public hearing will be held 6:30 P.M. Tuesday May 5, 2026, at the Golden Township Offices, 5527 W Fox Road, Mears, to take public comment on Zoning Amendments 4.42 Temporary Mobile Vendors.

The proposed amendment may be seen at the Golden Township Offices during normal business hours (M, W & F 8:30 AM -2:30 PM) or by contacting Shelly Peel 231-873-4413 for an appointment. Written comments will be accepted through Monday the day before the above noted meeting date by mail, Planning Commission, P.O. Box 26, Mears MI 49436, or email: zoning@ goldentownshipmi.gov.

Pentwater’s Charlie Swanger slides into home plate as Adele Bennett catches the ball for Brethren during last Thursday’s doubleheader at Pentwater. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Pentwater’s Bennett Bane (right) stretches out for a throw at first base as Brethren’s Jaxson Schmidt approaches the bag during last Thursday’s

The Falcons lost both games. • Andy

Pirates softball hangs on late to sweep MCC

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Hart edged Mason County Central in a very close game two Tuesday to pick up a doubleheader sweep of the Spartans in a West Michigan Conference Rivers doubleheader, 11-1 and 4-3.

The second of the two games was a nail-biter throughout, with MCC getting the tying run

into scoring position in the final inning before Reese Smith got a strikeout to end the game.

Smith’s hustle to get all the way from first base to third on a wild pitch in the sixth inning proved decisive in the final outcome, thanks to Leah Walker’s sacrifice bunt bringing Smith in. The Pirates again used small ball to help get an insurance run across the plate in the seventh, as Kora Hiddema reached on a

fielder’s choice, got to third base on a bunt and scored on a wild pitch.

Sydney Bateson had two of Hart’s five hits in game two, and Smith got the win after throwing 3 2/3 innings of hitless and scoreless relief with four strikeouts.

Game one was all Hart (6-4, 2-0 WMC Rivers) as the Pirates pushed 10 runs across in the first three innings and won by mercy

rule. Smith connected on a tworun home run in the second inning, part of a three-hit, six-RBI game. Maria Rodriguez brought two runs in with a first-inning single, and ElliAna Guikema had a RBI single in the third.

Caydence Bateson, Sydney Bateson and Makenna Carrier each had two hits in the game as well. Smith struck out eight and allowed only three hits in the circle to get the win.

Trio of aces kick off local golf season

Three golfers made holes-in-one at three different local courses early in the playing season. Chaseton Sullivan (left) made a hole-in-one from the blue tees on No. 17 at Oceana Golf Club Saturday, April 4; John Ippolitti (center) knocked one in from 129 yards on No. 8 at Benona Shores Golf Course Monday, April 13; and Jordan Benkert (right), a Reeths-Puffer player, connected for an incredible 339-yard ace on the par-4 No. 10 at Grand View Golf Course Monday, April 6.

Courtesy Photos

TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on April 8, 2026, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted Ordinance No. 2026-02, an Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE USE OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SANITARY SEWERS AND DRAINS, PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL, THE INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION OF BUILDING SEWERS, AND THE DISCHARGE OF WATERS AND WASTES INTO PUBLIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL FACILITIES; TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONNECTION TO AND THE FIXING AND COLLECTION OF RATES AND CHARGES FOR THE USE OF THE SEWAGE SYSTEM, THE ALLOCATION AND USE OF REVENUES DERIVED THEREFROM AND THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE SYSTEM; AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS AND OTHER MATTERS PERTAINING THERETO” (the “Ordinance”). The principal terms of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

ARTICLE I

SHORT TITLE; FINDINGS; PURPOSE. The Ordinance is known and referred to as the “Sewer Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance.”

The Ordinance is adopted in accordance with the Township’s obligations under various agreements related to sanitary services and establishes uniform requirements for users of the Sewer System in compliance with federal and state laws. Other objectives of the Ordinance include preventing pollution, recycling wastewaters and sewages, equitable distribution of costs, and protecting the integrity of the System.

Article I of the Ordinance provides detailed objectives and findings with respect to the Ordinance and the Sewer System.

ARTICLE II

DEFINITIONS. Article II of the Ordinance contains eighty-four (84) definitions of terms which are used throughout the Ordinance.

ARTICLE III

USE OF PUBLIC SEWERS REQUIRED. The Ordinance regulates sewage disposal in the Service District. All owners of Structures in which Sanitary Sewage Originates now situated or hereafter constructed and located within a Special Assessment District in the Service District are required to connect to the Sewer System. Existing improved parcels in the Service District that are outside of a sewer Special Assessment District are only required to connect to the Sewer System if the existing private Sewage Disposal Facilities fail and the Health Department will not issue a permit for new private Sewage Disposal Facilities for the premises, or if connection of all improved properties within the area in which said premises are located is declared a necessity by the Township for public health and welfare.

Premises not abutting an existing Public Sewer shall be permitted to connect to the Sewer System only with the consent of the Township Board, based on the continued availability of capacity in the Sewer System, and other considerations deemed appropriate by the Township Board.

The Ordinance further details requirements and conditions applicable to all Users who discharge Industrial Wastes into the Public Sewer, including the applicability of specific User Surcharges and the requirement to comply with the Village of Pentwater’s requirements if the User is discharging to the Township North System.

ARTICLE IV

PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL. If the Sewer System is not available to a parcel of land within the Service District, buildings must be connected to Private Sewage Disposal Facilities which comply with the requirements of the Oceana County Health Department and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (“EGLE”). At such time as the Sewer System becomes available to a parcel (in the manner specified in the Ordinance), the parcel shall be connected to the Sewer System at the property owner’s expense, and the private facility must be properly abandoned.

ARTICLE V

BUILDING SEWERS AND CONNECTIONS. Connection to the Sewer System may only be made pursuant to receipt of a permit issued by the Township, noting that connections to the Township North System must also comply with the Village of Pentwater’s requirements. The Ordinance provides procedures for filing a sewer connection permit application and establishes three classes of Building Sewer permits.

The Ordinance provides construction standards applicable to sewer connection and building plumbing. The property owner is responsible for the cost of the connection to the Sewer System. Connection shall be subject to inspection by the Township. The Ordinance specifies the responsibility for the repair, operation, maintenance and replacement of the Building Sewer.

ARTICLE VI

USE OF PUBLIC SEWERS. The Ordinance prohibits the discharge of storm water, ground water, and other unpolluted waters into the Sewer System. The Ordinance also prohibits and regulates the discharge of sewage with characteristics which would damage the Sewer System or which cannot be properly treated at the treatment plant. In addition, all discharges from the Township North System shall also comply with the Village of Pentwater’s ordinances, rules and regulations. The Township, or the Village acting on behalf of the Township if the discharge is to the Township North System, is empowered to take actions to protect the Sewer System, including rejecting the wastes and controlling the rate and quantity of discharge.

ARTICLE VII

SEWER RATES AND CHARGES. Responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the Sewer System lies with the Township (subject to the terms of the Contract with the Village of Pentwater with respect to discharges to the Township North System) on a public utility basis under the supervision and control of the Township. The Sewer System operates on the same fiscal year as the Township on a public utility basis. The Township will review and revise rates, charges and expenditures for the operation and maintenance of the Sewer System. The Sewer Rates and Charges for the Township North System and the Township South System shall be the same, to the greatest extent possible, but the Township reserves the right to establish different Sewer Rates and Charges for the two systems.

The Ordinance establishes various rates and charges including a Connection Fee, User Charge, User Surcharge, Miscellaneous User Fee, and an Inspection and Administration Fee. The rates, charges, and fees are established by resolution of the Township Board from time to time. Sewer Rates and Charges shall be billed by the Township on a monthly basis according to a schedule established by the Township. If Sewer Rates and Charges are not paid on or before the due date, then a penalty in the amount of 10% shall be added to the balance due. Sewer service may be discontinued by the Township as a result of nonpayment of rates or charges or violation of the Ordinance. Before discontinuing service, the Township shall provide thirty (30) days written notice to the User.

All Sewer Rates and Charges are a lien against the property served. The Township shall enter delinquent sewer rates and charges on the tax roll, and such charges may be collected in the same manner as general property taxes.

ARTICLE VIII

REVENUES. User Charges established to provide for the cost of operation and maintenance of the System shall be fixed and revised by resolution of the Township Board from time to time. Revenues of the System shall be set aside, as collected, and deposited into a separate depository account to be designated the Sewer Operating and Maintenance Fund, and said revenues so deposited shall be transferred periodically into separate funds established by the Township with designated subaccounts.

ARTICLE IX

NOTICE AND CLAIM PROCEDURES FOR SEWER OVERFLOW OR BACKUP. In accordance with state law, the Ordinance provides a procedure for providing notice of sewer overflows or backups and resolving claims for damage caused by such overflows and backups. Written notice of the backup and any claim for damages must be provided to the Township within 45 days after the damage or physical injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered by the Claimant. After submission of the written claim to the Township Supervisor, and additional documentation and investigations required as set forth in the Ordinance, the Township may make a determination as to liability with respect to the claim.

ARTICLE X

ENFORCEMENT. Authorized representatives of the Township, including the Village of Pentwater (with respect to the Township North System only), the Oceana County Health Department, and EGLE are permitted to enter at any time during usual business hours all properties in the Service District for the purposes of inspection, observation, measurement, sampling, testing and emergency repairs in accordance with provisions of the Ordinance

Violation of the Ordinance shall be a municipal civil infraction punishable by fines of $150 to $500 for the first offense and $300 to $2,500 for subsequent offenses, in addition to other costs, damages and expenses provided by law. In addition, violations of the Ordinance constitute nuisances, and the Township may take action to correct the nuisance and charge the cost thereof against the User. Persons who violate the Ordinance shall be liable for expenses incurred by the Township as a result of such violation.

ARTICLE XI

MISCELLANEOUS. The Ordinance provides guidance in case part of the Ordinance is held invalid and repeals conflicting Township ordinances. The Ordinance contains a Savings Clause that states that the Ordinance does not affect any current ordinance enforcement actions, or ordinance enforcement actions brought within one year of the effective date of the Ordinance. The Township reserves the right to amend the Ordinance in whole or in part at any time.

ARTICLE XII

PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE. The Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after publication.

APPENDICES. The Ordinance includes four Appendices. Appendix I is a map of the Service District. Appendix II is a drawing of a Gravity System. Appendix III is a drawing of a Grinder Pump System. Appendix IV is a Table of Unit Factors.

A copy of the amending Ordinance may be reviewed or purchased at the Township office during Township office hours.

Dated: April 8, 2026

TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

MHS students receive taekwondo crash course

Montague alum Jerome Kari has practiced the discipline for decades

A journey of self-discovery

home football jerseys last year.

A journey of self-discovery

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Florida filmmaker Derek Sanchez is crowdfunding an upcoming documentary about Whitehall's Jim "Red" Heeres

While it's impossible to corral hard data on the matter, chances are not many high school physical education classes spend time learning taekwondo over the course of a typical academic year. It is, to say the least, well off the usual ground of tennis, weightlifting, flag football, basketball and other sports that often populate the curriculum.

Jerome said he's visited the school before to teach taekwondo on his visits to the White Lake area, but never cramming it all into one day as he did April 1. It provided an interesting challenge. Luckily, Kari has decades of experience to fall back on.

about Whitehall's Jim "Red" Heeres

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Florida filmmaker Derek Sanchez had never met Jim "Red" Heeres, but hearing his wife Tiffany (DeCheney) Sanchez, who took Red's Self-Discovery class at Whitehall High School, talk about him and what that class meant to her convinced him that not only should Red's story be told, he was the person to help tell it.

Kari said he participated in the discipline on and off as a kid, but it wasn't until his 30s that he began pursuing it regularly, joining a gym near his Dallas/Fort Worth-area home. The owner of the gym eventually left the area, which led to a six-year break from participation, but eventually Kari got back into it and has stayed with it ever since.

"It's something I enjoy," Kari said. "It's a lot of exercise. It trains your brain and your body. It's a self-defense thing as well."

Derek is the founder of Inspired Films, which creates content for corporate videos, social media, events, commercials and more.

However, most PE classes don't have the luxury of experienced martial artists in their alumni ranks who are ready and willing to pass along their knowledge. Montague High School does, in Jerome Kari, Class of 1977, who spent Wednesday, April 1 giving a crash course in the discipline to five of Phil Koops' groups of students.

Like many others who took Heeres' class, which given increased awareness of mental health matters was decades ahead of its time in many ways, Tiffany still has the notebook she used for it. Heeres once told her she had "a gentle spirit about her," and whether he knew it or not, Tiffany badly needed to hear that message; it's stuck with her to this day.

"When you want to teach your 2030 years of knowledge in a 45-minute class, I try to teach them the basics," Kari said. "The stances, the form, your basic blocking, punching, that kind of thing."

from

Former Whitehall teacher Jim

award winner from both the

Koops met Kari last fall during his first football season coaching the Wildcats and didn't know what to expect when he brought Kari in for the taekwondo lesson. He's had speakers before during his teaching career with mixed results, but it didn't take long to learn that Kari was more than capable of holding students' attention.

"His famous line was, 'You are precious and worth 100 points,'" Derek Sanchez said. "I started researching the fan page (on Facebook) and all the people talking about this guy. I thought, there's a story here that should be shared. It's a lifetime of impact here. That's where it all sparked."

Kari lives in Texas now, as do his brothers and his uncle, Will Kari, who last year was honored with the naming of the Will Kari Golf Room in the new gym, recognizing his philanthropy towards the program. Jerome, too, has provided financial support to the Montague athletics programs; Koops said Kari bought the Montague seniors'

Sanchez has already conducted an interview with, and collected footage of, Heeres from a visit over the winter and is launching a crowdfunding effort to help deliver the rest of the project, which he's fittingly titled "Red: A Journey of Self-Discovery." The planned final product will include not just Heeres' thoughts, but many more interviews with those inspired by him. (Those interested in contributing can visit www. redthefilm.com.)

nearly 50 years and is the subject of an

and

during his teaching

• Courtesy/Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame and Fans of Jim "Red" Heeres Facebook Group

• Courtesy Photos

documentary film about his life. • Courtesy/Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame and Fans of Jim "Red" Heeres Facebook Group

School and "could barely read or write" when he did. Despite that, he already had the makings of a coach; he was the JV boys basketball coach for WMC the year after he graduated.

"I sat the kids down (before class) and told them, 'I don't care if you're into this, but you're going to give that man your attention because the most valuable thing someone can give you is their time,'" Koops said. "He came in and exposed them to something he's passionate about just because he went

After serving in the Korean War, Heeres went to college largely because it would be paid for through the GI Bill and he wanted to play basketball, his first love.

"He played at Muskegon (Community College), and after one semester, you had to have a 1.75 GPA to stay eligible for the next semester, and he came in at a 1.75," Love chuckled. "There's never been anyone so excited to have a 1.75 GPA, because he could play ball."

Taekwondo lesson

continued on page 2

which he had positive impacts on so many. The Face

Heeres becoming a teacher would've seemed like a long shot earlier in his life. Troy Love, who became close with Heeres while both were Whitehall teach ers and remains so today, said Heeres only narrow ly graduated from Western Michigan Christian High

There's no need to stop learning over spring break, and several local children had a chance to be exposed to the Ukrainian culture Tuesday during a special event at White Lake Community Library.

Whitehall

Council learns more about process required to accept control of Thriftwood St. area

Local author Kelley Peel (top right photo) co-wrote the book Seeds of the Sun, in which a Michigan fox visits family in Ukraine and learns about the culture, with a Ukrainian teacher, Tetiana, as a way to support Ukraine in its ongoing military conflict with Russia. Proceeds support materials for Tetiana's student community.

Council learns more about process required to accept control of Thriftwood St. area

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The Whitehall city council reexam ined a March request to construct a fence on Thriftwood Street and again opted to take no action after learning more about the complicated process the city would likely have to follow to take action on the property.

Those struggles in the classroom didn't stick, though, and Heeres went from MCC to Central Mich igan University, got his degree in 1962, and became a teacher and coach at Whitehall for the next 48 years. He coached several sports - football, basketball, baseball and softball among them. He was the first coach for the school's softball team; the field was named for him in 2005 and rededicated when the new fields

other boy, and he wanted to move past it.

An opportunity to learn about a new culture

In the classroom, he helmed U.S. History and his Self-Discovery class he launched in 1979, through

In order to take action over the street, Meier said, the city council would have to adopt a resolution to accept the ded

The request was originally made by property owners Megan and Zach Aney, who own property on both sides of the mapped road.

City attorney Will Meier referred to Thriftwood and streets like it as "paper

Young visitors learned about the book, were served Ukrainian treats, and were able to participate in crafts and even learn to write in Ukrainian.

City attorney Will Meier referred to Thriftwood and streets like it as "paper

Heeres said. "There weren't many dry eyes among those students. The essence of life is relationships, and those happen with reconciliation. To see those young people (following) those words was wonderful."

Among many awards he won during his career,

"They embraced in front of the whole class," Heeres said. "There weren't many dry eyes among those students. The essence of life is relationships, and those happen with reconciliation. To see those young people (following) those words was wonderful."

declines action on "paper roads"

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Though Mayor Tom Ziemer shared his desire to potentially build a path in the area that could connect with Gibbs

Meier said, the city council would have to adopt a resolution to accept the dedication of the street, which could be the area that could connect with Gibbs

Street as well as to the Evangelical Cov enant Church, Squiers wasn't enthu siastic about the idea for cost reasons and didn't feel there was sufficient in terest to the city. Bryan Mahan agreed with Squiers, saying to act on the road after all these years would be "a waste of time and money."

The council did unanimously ap prove a Match on Main grant for The Gnarly Heifer restaurant, the first to be approved since City Manager Dan Tav ernier launched the project last month. The restaurant requested the grant, which is awarded with a 1-to-1 match with participating businesses, as part of an ongoing outdoor improvement project it has been pursuing since a vehicle accident last year. The work, which the restaurant estimates will be completed by May 1, includes al ready-in-progress patio fencing, as well as exterior lighting, patio lighting,

prove a Match on Main grant for The Gnarly Heifer restaurant, the first to be approved since City Manager Dan Tav ernier launched the project last month. The restaurant requested the grant, which is awarded with a 1-to-1 match with participating businesses, as part of an ongoing outdoor improvement project it has been pursuing since a vehicle accident last year. The work, which the restaurant estimates will be completed by May 1, includes al ready-in-progress patio fencing, as well as exterior lighting, patio lighting,

already been completed, though Tav-

ernier noted that the grant does not provide for backdating funds, so only

Florida filmmaker Derek Sanchez is crowdfunding an upcoming documentary

Former Whitehall teacher Jim "Red" Heeres is shown in photos during his teaching career. Heeres, a lifetime service award winner

both the Muskegon Area Sports and Whitehall Sports halls of fame, was a Whitehall teacher for nearly 50 years and is the subject of an in-production documentary film about his life.

"Red" Heeres is shown

photos

career. Heeres, a lifetime service

Muskegon Area Sports

Whitehall Sports halls of fame, was a Whitehall teacher for

in-production

Montague High School alum Jerome Kari (left of top photo) works with a Montague student on his kicking technique during a taekwondo lesson in the MHS P.E. class April 1. Below, Kari addresses a class. Kari, who's practiced the martial art for decades, gave a primer on the discipline to five classes of students prior to spring break.

Montague Twp. green-lights Fruitland/WLAA reunion

All municipalities must agree to allow Fruitland to join WLAA before August millage vote

By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — The Montague Township board granted approval to the prospect of Fruitland Township's potentially joining the White Lake Ambulance Authority at its Tuesday meeting, a prerequisite for Fruitland's being allowed to put the issue to its voters in August.

All five municipalities currently part of the WLAA, including Montague Township, must approve Fruitland's potential rejoining for the township to be permitted to place a measure on the ballot. The vote passed 4-0, with Township Clerk Drew Roesler abstaining as

he is a WLAA employee.

Supervisor Jeff King, who represents the township on the WLAA board, said WLAA leadership is confident the organization would be able to accommodate Fruitland Township, which spans a large area of land and includes the Michigan’s Adventure theme park. WLAA previously voiced doubt that it could include Fruitland, but following ProMed Ambulance Service’s recent restructuring, less stress is placed on WLAA assistance.

As it stands, while the WLAA can expand the jurisdiction to accommodate Fruitland, it is still not able to staff another ambulance, due to nationwide EMT shortages, and would make do with the current roster of employees and vehicles. Because of this, despite their interest, the City of Whitehall is not able to join WLAA’s jurisdiction. Should Fruitland voters turn down a millage proposal in August, Whitehall

Documentary

Heeres won a statewide teacher of the year award from the American Legion in the late 1980s. Heeres in fact made such marks as a coach and educator that he has received the Lifetime Service Award from both the Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame and the Whitehall Sports Hall of Fame; the latter was the Whitehall HOF's first such award.

Heeres so loved his career that he once told the Muskegon Chronicle the only reason he retired when he did, in 2010, is that otherwise another teacher on staff, who had a young family, would have lost their job; Heeres never married or had children. His absence, though, didn't last long. He returned to the school in the second semester of the very next school year to teach more Self-Discovery classes.

Teaching didn't stop when the school year was over, either. Heeres also spent decades teaching swim classes at the White Lake Yacht Club, and also taught Bible studies at White Lake Assisted Living. Love said Heeres' students ranged from ages 2, at those swim lessons, to 103 at the Bible studies.

"He was able to capture the hearts of every one of his students," Love said. "There's no way I can describe in words what sitting under his teaching is like. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. I

continued from page 1

was a 30-year public school teacher, and I've never seen anything like it."

Like Heeres, Love is deeply invested in his faith; he's active at The Ladder Community Center in Shelby and at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Whitehall. The two men's friendship deepened when Love began attending a weekly Bible study Heeres had in his classroom for any interested Whitehall teachers prior to school on Fridays.

Eventually, Love learned from a men's retreat he attended that a great way to grow in faith was to ask someone to pray with them, and for them, each day for a year. Love asked Heeres, and the two men connected every day for not just one year, but decades. (Love even got Heeres a cell phone to facilitate the prayers when they couldn't connect in person.) Even now, with Heeres in his 90s and less active physically than he once was, it's a standing appointment for them.

"He's prayed with me and for me every day for 20 years," Love said. "When you pray with someone every day for 20 years, you get to know their heart. I've been blessed with the gift of Red, who's been willing to invest in me for 20 years."

Heeres' Bible studies, Love said, have led to innumerable acts of service from people who participated - mission trips, careers as a pastor, the establish-

could potentially be considered to join.

One thing making Fruitland Township's potential WLAA membership attractive to other municipalities is the likely decrease they would see in their own WLAA millage funding. It's estimated that the six municipalities could have rate as low as 1 mill for all six municipalities; current rates are set at 1.75 mills.

King admitted reservations based on the circumstances surrounding Fruitland Township's departure from WLAA 10 years ago, but explained administrative changes from both sides bode well for future cooperation.

“It’s a totally different ballgame (now)," King said. "I’m so proud of (WLAA) now, what we’ve done. And I’m telling you, the passion on the board is palpable. These guys are so community-oriented… We’re doing extremely well.”

The board also approved the brin-

ment of faith-based ministries all over the globe.

"Here's this guy who lives on a corner in little old Whitehall, no family in the neighborhood, never been married, and he's impacted the entire globe, every continent, for the kingdom of God," Love said.

It's that faith that informed Love's reaction when Sanchez approached him with the idea for the documentary.

"I do believe it is an act of God," Love said. "I believe God has put this on Derek Sanchez to do this documentary at just the right time, just in time to capture Red's story, which is one of a kind and inspiring. I know God has a hand on this."

Sanchez, too, feels prodded by divine forces to tell Heeres' story.

"It's a journey we all find ourselves in at one point or another," Sanchez said, referring to self-discovery. "Red believes, and my wife and I believe, it's ultimately a pursuit of who Christ made us to be. We find Jesus at the end of it. This life is not about ourselves. While we reflect on ourselves, it's to live for Him, serve Him and serve the people around us."

Even at the center of a film project, though, Heeres remains humble, even bemused by all the attention. Love said when he showed Heeres the trailer Sanchez created for his film (viewable at redthefilm.com), Heeres' reaction was a simple, "I wondered what he was going to do with that stuff."

As Love sees it, Heeres didn't agree to the film to cement some sort of per-

ing of two roads, which will be done by the Muskegon County Road Commission. These roads include Harris Road and a 2,000-foot stretch of Oaks Road, at the cost of $398.44 and $344.49 respectively.

Montague Township agreed to contract with the consulting firm Williams & Works to look over and make any necessary additions to the township's currently drafted ordinance regarding construction of data centers. Williams & Works recently wrote a similar ordinance for White River Township. The contract is at an hourly rate of $100, for an estimated 5-6 hours of work.

The board also discussed possible parks and recreation maintenance and improvements, the upcoming retirement of Montague Fire District Authority's chief and assistant chief, and approved using the Senior Fund to purchase an automated external defibrillator for the township hall.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

sonal legacy. He did it for the same reason he's done so many other things in his life - with a goal of reaching people on a human level. He can reach them best through his voice, as he did during his teaching career. Even adults like Love - he said that while teaching, he took Heeres' class five times by attending it during his hour off - stand to benefit.

"I've never been in a class (like his,) where students lean in," Love said. "It's like they hang on every single word. That's a dynamic that I'm not sure you could get from reading words on paper. In this documentary, people will be able to hear Red's voice. When you see this documentary, it will cause you to lean in and soak in everything that is shared...Every single person will be a better human being when they're done watching it.

"The fact that his story is going to be captured in a documentary is powerful, and so needed."

The softball field at Whitehall is named for Jim "Red" Heeres, the program's first coach, in honor of the positive impact he had at the school.

Saturday, April 18

Earth Day Hike @ Clear Springs Nature Preserve, 2 p.m. Join MADL Montague on a guided tour of the preserve and learn about the importance of environmental stewardship. Meet in the parking lot off Fruitvale Road.

Legal Rehab performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m.

Monday, April 20

Family Storytime @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join for stories, music, and movement. No registration required.

White Lake Community Library welcomes knitters and crocheters for a weekly gathering, 3 p.m. Knitters and

Community Calendar

crocheters are invited to bring whatever they're working on to this casual meetup, a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and enjoy good company.

Earth Day Art Party @ MADL Montague, 3 p.m. Kids welcome to come use fun materials to show how much they care about the earth. Registration required @ madl.org.

Tuesday, April 21

Baby Time @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Bring your littlest ones – ages 0-2 – to Baby Time for songs, music, and movement.

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

Wednesday, April 22

"Not Everyone is a Friend" event @ White Lake Community Library,

11 a.m. A representative from Safe Seniors, part of AgeWell Services of West Michigan, will explain how to recognize the warning signs of neglect, abuse, and financial exploitation and outline what steps to take if you or someone you know may be at risk.

Eric Michaels & Chris Kennedy perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 11:30 a.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.

Earth Day Animal Spot-a-Thon @ White Lake Community Library, 6 p.m. In this event livestreamed by citizen science organization SciStarter, you can look at images to spot and classify animals in the wild. All ages

welcome; please bring a smart device or laptop if you'd like to participate.

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

Thursday, April 23

Toddler Story Time @ MADL Montague, 11 a.m. Stories, songs and play time. Intended for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

Friday, April 24

Play and Learn @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Children 5 and under, along with their caregivers, will enjoy an hour of stories, songs, and playtime.

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!

Echoes of History: Sedgwick rocks Whitehall (Pt. 3)

By Tom Eitniear Volunteer Contributor

Parts 1 and 2 of this story ran in the April 10 edition of the Mirror.

Letters to Otis Sedgwick's wife Luverne from his brother Hubert were found that pleaded for her to leave the marriage. These letters from Hubert were sent because he had observed Otis suffered from periodic spells of insanity since he was a small child. This observation was verified by Anna M. Burns, who was the aunt of Luverne.

During the trial for his wife's and daughter's murders, Otis remained at the side of his counsel with his head down most of the time, seemingly taking little interest in the proceedings. No testimony was made as to the crime itself, and no arguments were made to the jury. Based upon evidence presented, the jury, after one hour of deliberation, returned a verdict of insane. Otis showed no emotion at the announcement of the verdict.

Judge Vanderwerp immediately made an order committing Otis to the Ionia State Hospital for the criminally insane. Upon bidding good-bye to the officers in the courtroom, Otis completely broke down, showing emotion for the first time since the tragedy. Otis White Sedgwick spent the rest of his life in prison in Ionia where he died Aug. 23, 1945, at the age of 72. His remains were interred in the family plot at the Four Corners Cemetery in Thorndike, Massachusetts.

Gordyne, Otis' other daughter, was initially cared for by a neighbor, Mrs. Mark Covell, until Blain Kilbourn, brother of Luverne, arrived to bring the bodies to New York for burial in the family plot. She was then taken to Forestport, New York, where she was raised by her grandparents and had a fulfilling life. “Dyne” married Carl N. Jensen July 30, 1948, in New York, and they had three children. She died from dementia at her home in Greenwich, Connecticut, March 4, 2011.

City council

The council also unanimously approved a revised fee schedule, which raised some fees, including returned

continued from page 1

check fees, half-day park rental fees, marina fees and police service fees. However, the latter fees are often

waived for community members, Squiers and police chief Brandon Mahoney both said, and are in place mostly for when records are requested by insurance companies and attorneys, who do so for business reasons. The city also added a $400 snow removal fee

for those requesting burials in city cemeteries due to an increase in such requests, City Clerk Brenda Bourdon said. She did note that if the ground is frozen, the city does not have equipment to accommodate a winter burial regardless of snow.

Find your joy here during National Library Week

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

What brings you joy? Whether it’s cozying up with a new story, learning a new skill, gathering with community members, or something else, you can find your joy at White Lake Community Library.

National Library Week is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. From books and digital resources to meeting spaces and creative programming, libraries are essential to thriving communities.

Everyone is invited to be part of the celebration! Whether you're a longtime patron, a new neighbor, or haven’t visited in a while, now is the perfect time to explore all the library has to offer. The library provides great

programs for kids and adults, free WiFi and printing, and a Library of Things that now includes everything from puzzles and games to power tools and musical instruments, ensuring that everyone has access to resources that help people connect, explore, and learn.

The Friends of the Library group will be setting up an interactive display to help celebrate, too. Stop by anytime the week of April 19 to share a note of appreciation for your library or a favorite staffer, or even nominate a Star Librarian.

We are also offering free replacement cards throughout the month of April, so now is the time to replace a lost or worn-out tan card with one of our new, more colorful library cards. Stop in anytime during open hours to get yours.

First celebrated in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April.

FUN FACT: The library is home to more clubs than ever before, bringing people together around shared hobbies, games, and other interests.

The two most recent additions are the mahjong club and the knitting & crocheting club. All are welcome at these weekly gatherings, as well as the monthly gatherings of the Pick-YourOwn Book Club, the cookbook club, and the Grandmothers Group. Get all the details at wlclib.org/adults.

Animal Spot-a-Thon

This Wednesday

Just a quick reminder about two programs scheduled for April 22. Join us at 11 a.m. for a Safe Seniors presentation, and come back at 6 p.m. to celebrate Earth Day by participating in a NASA-supported wildlife conservation project. You’ll be watching trail cam videos to spot and classify animals. Your efforts will help researchers track and manage populations. More info on both programs can be found at wlclib.org/calendar.

“May” Your Kindness Save a Life at the Blood Drive May 21

The library is hosting another blood drive! If you’re an eligible donor and would like to help save lives in our community, please consider donating blood at the library Thursday, May 21, from 2-6:30 p.m. As a special thank-you, all attempting do-

nors with a valid email will receive a $25 e-gift card. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome as the schedule allows. To schedule a donation, just call 866-642-5663 or visit bit.ly/bloodmay2026.

Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is a non-profit organization headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI, specializing in blood products and services and providing expert medical and technical support. Founded in 1955, it is the primary provider of blood products and services throughout Michigan and is an established leader in quality and service. For more information, visit versiti.org/Michigan.

DeMumbrum

Otis White Sedgwick in 1898. • Courtesy Photo

community

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

SPORTS

Vikings drop defensive-minded battle with Shelby

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Just as they did last year, Whitehall and Shelby played a low-scoring defensive battle Monday to open West Michigan Conference play, but the Vikings came out on the short end this time, falling 1-0.

Last season, the teams tied 1-1, and with each team missing one of their key scoring threats, the contest was even more defensively minded. The Vikings were without Kate Beda, who was out of the country on a service trip, and Shelby was missing Kylie Brown, also out of town.

"We definitely felt her loss, but I think the girls really stepped up," Whitehall coach Laicey Chamberlain said. "They're going to have to get used to it. This is (Beda's) senior year. I think it was a good test for them to see if we can pull together."

The results were solid, Chamberlain felt, especially on the defensive end. Ally Gardner, Gwen DeRose, Lily Heidelberg and Morgan Garcia largely limited the Tigers, and keeper Kaylyn Blaske was not forced into many highstress situations. Defensive midfielder Avery Heacock was also a notable asset on that side of the field.

Even more encouraging for Chamberlain was the youth of some of the girls playing well on defense. DeRose and Heacock are freshmen and Heidelberg is a sophomore. In addition, though Gardner is a senior, Chamberlain said it's her first season playing on the back line.

"The strength that this team will continue to have, and their abilities, and the cohesiveness is something I'm really looking forward to watching build,"

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Chamberlain said.

The one Shelby goal came in the game's 16th minute, when the Tigers' Annabelle Stark was able to chase down a nice pass and go one-on-one with Blaske for a score. It was the one blemish on an otherwise solid defensive game.

While Shelby's defense also held down Whitehall (1-1) - the Vikings' best scoring chance, a free kick from just outside the box in the second half, caromed off the crossbar - Chamberlain was impressed with the effort of her major offensive players.

"Izzy Causie and Reese Hesse and Clare Westerlund and Liz Fox played their guts out today," Chamberlain said. "Those four were really hammering our offense. As our offensive line, they were making plays and making things happen. All four of them I was moving

Viking soccer

continued on page

Vikings sizzle in wins over Manistee

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall picked up a sweep in its West Michigan Conference Lakes opening doubleheader Tuesday, defeating Manistee 15-0 and 12-2 for its first wins of the season.

The Vikings (2-6, 2-0 WMC Lakes) pitched well throughout the doubleheader. Beth LeaTrea allowed just one hit and struck out nine in her mercy-rule shortened four-inning outing in game one, and Emily Ames struck out eight and allowed one earned run on six hits in five innings in game two.

Whitehall's bats did the job throughout the two games as well. Kayden Johnson opened the scoring with a RBI single in the first inning of game one, part of a three-hit game that saw her drive in four runs. She had a double in the game as well. Janie Fagan and Maggy Michaelson got two hits each, and one of Michaelson's was a double. Six different Whitehall batters scored two runs each.

Game two got off to a slower start for the Vikings, and the game was tied 1-1 going into the third inning. Howev-

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

er, Whitehall caught fire at that point, adding 11 runs in the next three trips to the plate to pick up a second mercy-rule win.

Ryleigh Smith got things going for the Vikes with a two-run single, and Beth LeaTrea followed with a RBI sin-

gle. Toree Carlson's two-run single kept the party going in the fourth inning, and LeaTrea had a RBI double to follow. Smith ripped a RBI double to cap the scoring in the fifth after Johnson and Fagan had consecutive RBI

Whitehall's Reese Hesse (10) and Shelby's Nicole Ortiz battle to get to a loose ball during Monday's WMC game at Whitehall. The Vikings lost, 1-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

singles. Smith got three hits in all with three RBI to lead the Viking bats, and Johnson, Carlson and LeaTrea got two hits each. Johnson and Fagan both scored three runs.

Whitehall's Kayden Johnson follows the flight of her ball during Tuesday's doubleheader against Manistee. Johnson had a big day at the plate in the Vikings' sweep.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Emily Ames winds up for a pitch during Tuesday's doubleheader against Manistee. Ames and teammate Beth LeaTrea both starred in the circle to propel the Vikings to a sweep.

Whitehall's Izzy Causie tries to beat Shelby's Adelyn Kelley (2) and Annabelle Stark to the ball during Monday's WMC game at Whitehall. The Tigers won, 1-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Liz Fox (7) defends Shelby's Maria Hayes during Monday's game at Whitehall.

League opener gets away from Whitehall

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall dropped its West Michigan Conference Lakes opening doubleheader to Manistee Tuesday, 14-1 and 5-2.

Game one got away from the Vikings (2-4, 0-2 WMC Lakes) in the fifth inning, when Manistee scored 11 runs thanks to walks, balks and some timely hitting by the Mariners. Up until that point, it had been a closely contested game with the Vikings trailing 3-1.

Noah Morse had Whitehall's big hit in the opener, a RBI double. Hunter Peterson got two hits in the game. Evan Thomas allowed two earned runs in four innings of work, striking out eight and walking five.

The Vikes went ahead 2-1 in the third inning of game two, but were unable to hold the lead late. Noah Peterson ripped a RBI double in the second and Justin Jensen gave Whitehall the lead with a sacrifice fly in the third. Manistee got two hits to lead off the

make a

bottom of the fourth, and both those hits came around to score later in the inning. In the fifth, the first two Mariner batters were hit by pitches, and both those batters came around to score as well.

Five Whitehall batters got a hit apiece in the second game. Brayden Kelley struck out five in a complete game on the mound.

Veterans, young talent create exciting mix for Montague golf

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague coach Brad Tate believes the Wildcats have good things coming in the future thanks to some incoming young players who view golf as their "primary sport."

"If our young team is willing to put in the needed time, our season and program's future looks bright," Tate said. "But time and countless hours at the practice range and putting green will give us a definitive answer."

The Wildcats have a few returning veterans on the team, in Jonah Henderson, Tanner DeVries and Ethan Balon. Their leadership will be helpful in developing the younger players, who have great promise. Three freshmen - Michael Flanagan, Owen Erickson and Robert Orwat - have two years of middle school play under their belts, and Alexander Hansen and Steven Aebig have shown impressive growth in the offseason.

In addition, David Gowin, a sophomore transfer from Muskegon Catholic, is "an exceptional player," Tate said, though it wasn't clear at the season's outset if he

would be able to play due to MHSAA transfer rules.

"Coach Tom Engelsman has been instrumental in helping to develop our younger players," Tate said. "Coach Engelsman not only develops the proper swing fundamentals with these young men but helps them to understand the mental aspect of playing a smart round of golf. Our entire JV team will grow by leaps and bounds this spring."

Due to the combination of experience and young talent on the team, Tate said it's likely the lineup will be fluid, with many players getting the opportunity to compete in varsity matches. The competition for spots should make all the players better.

"Our team is going to get better every week, and every team member knows that they will need to earn their playing spots by working hard at practice," Tate said.

The highlight of the Wildcat schedule will be in the last week of April, during which time Montague will host three matches. The team's home West Michigan Conference Lakes jamboree will take place in late April, followed swiftly by the Montague Invitational and

Viking soccer

around and putting in different spots, and they did it. They didn't complain."

Any time a team jumps right back into game action on the first school day after spring break, rust could be a factor, though Chamberlain wasn't too concerned with that. Shelby, after all, didn't play a game last week either, though it was not on spring break.

"They're usually a pretty competitive team," Chamberlain said. "We knew it was going to be a competitive game going into this. They just capitalized better than we did.

They prevented us from putting some stuff together and they got their goal and held us to not getting any."

One challenge Chamberlain is facing - which she noted is a positive one - is figuring out how best to deploy her team now that she has more depth, thanks mostly to a large contingent of seven freshmen who joined the Vikings this year. Last season, by necessity, everyone's roles were pretty much set quickly due to a lack of bodies, but with more players and more overall talent, the lineup is still somewhat

Montague's Tanner DeVries hits an approach shot during last season's GMAA tournament. DeVries is one of three returning veteran players for the up-and-coming Wildcats.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File

the GMAA tournament, which the 'Cats will also host, albeit at nearby Chase Hammond Golf Club.

"This will be an extremely busy but very enjoyable week for our young team," Tate said. "They want to see where they stack up against the other area teams. They know that there will be some ups and downs and there will be a lot of learning taking place, but this team cares a lot about each other and they want to push each other to be their best."

Sports in Brief

Baseball

Montague 7-9 Oakridge 1-8

The Wildcats scored 2 big wins over one of their top contenders in the WMC Lakes. Montague held off a late 6-run rally to eke out the win in game two. Cole Herremans got the win with 9 strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings. In game one, Eli Petersen allowed 2 hits in 6 innings, fanning 8, and got 2 hits himself. Cooper Bradley and Chase Kurtzhal also had 2 hits each.

Reeths-Puffer 16-15 Muskegon 1-0

In game one, Brendan Guikema got 3 hits, and Hank Mitchelson doubled twice. Jack Yonkman and Jaxon Lee also got 2 hits each, and Lee had 3 RBI. Paul Smith struck out 8 in 3 innings. In game two, Ethan Frang got 3 hits and Tyler Sykes had 2 RBI. Sykes and Brayden Meuwenberg combined for 7 strikeouts and allowed only 1 total hit.

Softball

Oakridge 18-17 Montague 3-1

Gentry Knop led Montague with 2 hits and Kaelyn Lohman had an RBI in game one, but the powerhouse Eagles dominated both games. Game two stats were not reported.

Reeths-Puffer 16-17 Muskegon 1-0

Makayla Jewett pitched a 3-inning perfect game in game two, striking out 6. Kenzie Jacobs got 3 hits, 2 of them triples, and Lainey McDaniel hit an inside-the-park home run and a double, with 4 total RBI. In game one, McDaniel had 3 hits and Taylor Long and Madi Reichert each added 2. Jacobs hit an inside-the-park home run. McDaniel struck out 6.

Girls Soccer

Ludington 7 Montague 0

The Orioles, defending WMC champs, held Montague without a shot on goal in the game. Three Orioles had 2 goals each.

Reeths-Puffer 8 Muskegon 0

Jaslynn Kops and Sara Carlson each had 2 goals for the Rockets. Kops had 2 assists, as did Ashley Bradley.

Ludington 6 Whitehall 0

The Vikings managed 4 shots on goal in the game but had trouble containing the Orioles' Hestyn Stowe, who rang up 3 goals.

Track

Reeths-Puffer falls to Mona Shores

The Rockets fell 89-47 in the boys' meet and 96-40 in the girls' meet. Evan McHugh set a PR in pole vault (12-2) to win that event. Mason Darke, Gabriel Luna, Jersi Bilek, Taryn Gill, Sophia Wathen and Zaire Wright also won individual events.

Boys Golf

fluid early in the season.

"I'm still trying to figure out where all these girls need to be and what their positions should be, because I'm trying them all over the field," Chamberlain said. "It's just me trying to figure out where my team needs to be to play their best game. That's on me. That's not on them. Especially in that second half, they came out and they played really strong. Now, it's time for me to do my job and figure out how to get them to play the best soccer possible."

Reeths-Puffer 21st at FHN Invite

Kristian Brown led the Rockets with an 83 - a 10-stroke improvement from the same event last year - and freshman Ian Vokal had a strong debut, shooting an 85 and birdieing his first high school hole. Reeths-Puffer T-4th at Jenison Jamboree

Kristian Brown again led R-P and earned medalist honors with an evenpar 36. He scored an eagle on the 4th hole and made birdie on the 9th. Beckitt Johnson added a 45 for the Rockets, whose team score was 181.

Girls Tennis

Whitehall 7 Muskegon Catholic 1

The Vikings won 3 matches by default and all 3 doubles pairs to play won their matches. Bea Lewis/Addie Broton, Emily VanDam/Nora Grey and Avarie Bentz/Braelee Fogus all won. Akeelah Martin won in singles play.

Lacrosse

Holland Christian 10 Reeths-Puffer 4

Cohen Beck scored 3 goals in the game. Lightning in the area cut the contest short in the 3rd quarter.

Whitehall's Brayden Kelley is unable to scoop a low throw as Manistee's Owen Polcyn slides into third base during Tuesday's doubleheader at Whitehall. The Vikings went 0-2 in the games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall shortstop Justin Jensen winds up to

throw to first base during Tuesday's doubleheader against Manistee. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Viking boys crush competition at Manistee Tri

Montague girls edge Whitehall in tri

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

In a very close Manistee Tri Tuesday, Montague edged rival Whitehall 68-63. The Wildcats fell 68-64 to Manistee and the Viking girls and Manistee tied, 65-65.

The Whitehall boys team dominated the tri, routing both Manistee and Montague by respective scores of 111-26 and 116-21. Montague defeated Manistee 77-56.

The Viking boys won 15 of the 17 events contested, with Bobby Jazwins-

ki and Tim Vieira each recording a pair of individual wins. Jazwinski posted times of 4:29.98 in the 1,600 and 9:30.9 in the 3,200, easily outpacing the competition. Vieira picked up wins in both sprint events, setting personal bests in both. His times were 11.99 seconds in the 100 and 23.69 in the 200.

Single individual wins for Whitehall came from Rex Pumford in the 400 (a personal best 54.49); Evan Jud in the 800 (a personal best 2:06.5); Corde Anderson in the 110 hurdles (15.88); Judd Musk in the 300 hurdles (46.84); Caden Bowyer in discus (a personal best 1566); Ayden Mendoza in high jump (6-6); Graysen Olstrom in pole vault (13-0); and Cole Essebaggers in long jump

(20-1).

The Viking boys also won three relays. The 400 team consisted of Anderson, Essebaggers, Mendoza and Vieira (45.73), and the 1,600 team was Javi LeBlanc, Jevon Hilliard, Pumford and Vieira (3:43.8). The 3,200 team was Hilliard, LeBlanc, Pumford and Jazwinski (8:40.4).

Isaac French earned Montague's only win of the tri, taking first in the shot put (46-4.5).

In the girls' tri, Montague racked up some key points in the sprint relays, winning both of them. The Wildcat team of Celina Pruitt, Lillith Decker, Cadence Fox and Nora Wacholz won the 400 relay (59.27), and the team of

Jenna Erickson, Gentry Knop, Annelyse Schneider and Addi Smith won the 800 (1:58.7). Gabby Dietz added a win for Montague in the 300 hurdles with a time of 58.63 seconds.

Gabrielle Chevez won three individual events and helped the Vikes win a fourth on the girls' side. Chevez took the win in all three distance events, including in the 3,200 (14:55.9). She also won the 800 (2:49.9) and the 1,600 (6:33.9). Chevez also joined Kassidy Parmley, Giselle Burbridge and Lily Britton for the win in the 3,200 relay (12:50.0). Burbridge added a win for the Vikes in long jump and set a personal best (14-8).

DNR fishing report for the week amid rains

Here is this week's fishing report provided by the Michigan DNR.

Many areas of Michigan are currently experiencing severe flooding as melting snow and rain have caused rivers to breach their banks. Anglers are advised to use caution near water bodies or areas with flooding risk.

Grand Haven - Pier anglers caught a few brown trout and coho salmon on spawn. When the weather allowed, brown trout and coho salmon were caught by boat anglers trolling the shoreline. Orange and gold body baits were the most productive. Boats targeting yellow perch found the action to

Heavy rain closes Old Channel Trail in Montague

be very slow.

Muskegon - Boat anglers trolling the shoreline out to 25 feet of water found some brown trout, coho salmon and the occasional Chinook salmon. Bright colors worked well in both body baits and spoons.

Ludington - Boat anglers trolling for brown trout reported slow fishing. However, a few were caught over the weekend. Spoons and body baits worked where water temps were warmest. These areas included the harbor and near the Lincoln River mouth. Water temps were in the low to mid-40s. The piers were slow once again.

Montague's Hayes holds book signing at Papa's Pizza

White River Twp. also approves Fruitland/WLAA reunion

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — At its regular meeting Tuesday, the White River Township board unanimously approved a resolution that will allow Fruitland Township residents to vote on a millage to join the White Lake Ambulance Authority later this year.

White River is one of five participating municipalities that must approve resolutions allowing Fruitland to join before the township is permitted to vote on the matter, which it plans to do in August. Montague Township approved its own resolution Tuesday. Whitehall Township, Blue Lake Township and the City of Montague also will need to approve resolutions prior to an August vote.

Trustee Laura Anderson said despite the past acrimony between Fruitland and the WLAA - Fruitland left the authority in 2016 - it would be a good move to approve the reunion. The board believes the issues that led to Fruitland's departure have since been addressed. Anderson, the township's WLAA

representative, also noted that the WLAA has the opportunity to bid on a nearly brand new ambulance that the Norton Shores Fire Department purchased and has not found that it needed. She said she's hopeful that the WLAA's bid, which was not disclosed, can be accepted.

The board also granted unanimous approval to the new ordinance governing data center construction in the township after the planning commission sent it to the board at a March 31 special meeting. Supervisor Ron Bailey said the presented ordinance (details were in the April 3 Mirror) fits well with Michigan Township Association recommendations, and Anderson complimented the commission on its work.

The board again opted out of road brining from the Muskegon County Road Commission, as it has the past few years, by a 4-1 vote (Bailey dissented).

Trustee Deb Harris said her objection to the brining is mostly for environmental reasons as she does not want the salt used in the brining getting into the groundwater. The brining would have come at a cost of about $7,800 to the

township and included 13 roads.

Bailey shared that he had a recent meeting with Montague Township Supervisor Jeff King and Montague City Manager Jeff Auch regarding a Medbery Park trail project all three would like completed. The trio shared ideas on how to work together in pursuit of state grants. The hope is to connect such a trail with a new pedestrian bridge planned for a 2027 construction at the end of Lau Road.

Bailey also noted that oral arguments were being made in Detroit this week in an appeal filed by dozens of townships, including White River and Montague, regarding perceived overreach by the Michigan Public Services Commission. The Michigan Appeals Court's official YouTube page was slated to have video of the arguments posted by Thursday.

Two different community service projects were discussed. The local Boy Scout troop is planning to again participate in a cleanup at Mouth Cemetery May 9, for which the township has made contributions of $800 the past couple of years. Because the contribution is already budgeted, no action was neces-

sary. Also, public commenter John Richard shared that the Catholic Heart Work Camp is again coming to Montague in the second week of June and the group is looking for projects to complete. Township Clerk Julie Goericke suggested a power washing of the exterior of the township hall building, a task she had already been investigating. Another public comment came from Claire Schlaff of the Chemours Environmental Impact Committee. She shared that a tentative date of June 11 has been set for a public meeting with the state Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy to gather public feedback regarding Chemours' October corrective action consent agreement that it has publicly shared. Schlaff, as well as trustee Anderson, believe the measures Chemours are suggesting are "unacceptable" and hope public turnout can push the company into taking actions CEIC would prefer, such as the removal of landfills in the area. Schlaff noted that community acceptance is one of the stated factors to be considered in EGLE's dealings with the company.

Montague athlete Ben Hayes (right), author of the recent book Living Through Autism, held a book signing Saturday at Papa's Pizza in Montague alongside fiancee Jazmyne Tyszko. Hayes ran out of books to sell at the signing and offered pre-orders to those who wanted to buy books after they were sold out. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The City of Montague announced on social media Thursday morning that Old Channel Trail is closed between the Wilcox and Bowen Street intersections "until further notice" as heavy rain has made the road impassable. High water levels are affecting traffic throughout Muskegon County. • Photo courtesy of City of Montague

Recent local police activity

Behind the Badge

Whitehall Police Report

April 5

At 7:06 p.m. officers were called to the 300 block of Lewis St. on a domestic assault report. Officers were advised that a 62-year-old male from Whitehall had assaulted his 88-year-old mother by pushing her down. Officers made contact with the subject and spoke with the victim in the case as well. She indicated he became upset over a conversation and had shoved her to the floor. The male, who had prior legal history of assault, denied the assault, but was taken into custody. While at the jail, the subject repeatedly refused to remove his shoes when asked to do so, ultimately shoving a jail guard in response to one such request, earning him an arrest for resisting.

April 8

At 5:56 p.m., officers were contacted by Muskegon Central Dispatch regarding a road rage complaint that had occurred on northbound US-31. Officers responded to a reporting party who was directed to the police department to get away from the road rage

suspect. The reporting party indicated the other party had used hand gestures that did not please him and then followed him to confront him. Both parties, who were from Muskegon, were advised not to confront one another over driving situations.

Officers received a tip at 7:17 p.m. that the 62-year-old male from Whitehall, who had been released on bond regarding the April 5 alleged assault earlier that day, was back at his mother's residence despite a conditional bond forbidding him to go to the residence. The subject claimed not to know about the bond provision, but produced paperwork showing the instructions. The police department later learned he'd also been directly told not to return to his mother's residence. The subject was lodged at the county jail for violating his bond.

At approximately 8:09 p.m. officers were called to the rail trail near the 100 block of E Lincoln St. in an attempt to aid a 35-year-old male from Montague Township who had been riding an electric-powered scooter on the trail northbound when, based on officers' investigations, he was struck by a deer. The individual, who was not wearing a helmet, sustained a head injury in the collision, and two bystanders performed CPR on him after finding him unresponsive. His pulse returned, but later in the evening, he succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. The case remains open pending an autopsy report.

April 9

At 1:43 p.m., officers were called to the 200 block of E Colby St. for a

neighbor dispute. The reporting party indicated there was a dispute regarding the use of a garbage receptacle at two neighboring apartment complexes. Upon contact with the reporting parties, they stated they were upset because another subject had used the wrong apartment's dumpster for waste disposal. The reporting parties were told that in the future, it was best to not confront others and let apartment management handle those situations.

April 13

At 3:21 p.m., officers were called to the 1200 block of E Colby St. on a trespassing complaint. The reporting party, a manager at the apartment complex, indicated that a known subject, a 48-year-old male from Dalton Twp. who has a legal history of assault and drug use and had previously been banned from the building, was hiding in his mother's apartment without his mother being there. Officers encouraged him to leave and cited him, noting the possibility of arrest if he returned.

April 14

At 9:09 p.m., officers responded to a report of an individual at Svensson Park who was loudly preaching and creating a disturbance. When officers arrived at the park, they located a 40-year-old female praying loudly and telling residents in the nearby development that they were going to go to hell. Officers advised the woman she was permitted to preach, but could face legal action if she created a disturbance. The subject declined to identify herself and ultimately left the park without incident to go to another park.

Montague Police Report

April 9

11:43 a.m., medical assist, 8000 block of School St.

April 10

3 p.m., vandalism, 8700 block of Water St.

April 11

2:05 p.m., report of operator under the influence of liquor, 8700 block of Water St.

3:04 p.m., domestic, 8900 block of Ferry St.

April 12

1:05 a.m., traffic stop with arrest, intersection of Water Street and Eilers Road

12:24 p.m., peace officer, 8000 block of Cook St.

2:43 p.m., home larceny, 8000 block of Cook St.

5:15 p.m., vehicle accident, no injuries, intersection of Cook and Dowling streets

7:30 p.m., assist to Whitehall Police, missing person, 100 block of E Colby St.

April 13

3:23 p.m., assist to Whitehall Police, trespassing, 1200 block of Colby St.

6:51 p.m., assist other agency, 7000 block of Old Channel Trail

7:48 p.m., domestic, 5000 block of Osmun St.

April 14

12:13 a.m., suspicious occurrence, 4000 block of Strong St. 11:29 p.m., road and weather report, DPW notified for flooding, 8700 block of Ferry St.

Locals encouraged to participate in Trash Bash

The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau is calling on community members to join the annual Trash Bash, scheduled for April 26 from 1-4 p.m. All ages are welcome to participate.

As part of this year’s cleanup, the Chamber is encouraging participants to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by focusing on keeping the White Lake

Area clean for the next 250 years. Show your American spirit by sporting your best red, white, and blue while giving back to the community.

Meet at the Chamber building at 1, when volunteers will be deployed to tackle trash along the north and south sides of the bike trail, area parks, shoreline spots, and nearby waterways.

Participants are advised to wear clothes than can get dirty, as well as gloves and sunscreen. Trash bags will be provided.

WaterDog Outfitters is offering free kayak rentals for volunteers helping clean the waterways (volunteers must be cold-water ready and wear proper dry gear). They are also offering free bike

rentals for those helping to clean along the bike trails.

For more information, visit www. whitelake.org or call the White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau at 231893-4585.

Psychic Comedian coming to Playhouse

The "Psychic" Comedian, Peter Antoniou, is coming to the Playhouse at White Lake Friday, April 24 for a 7:30 p.m. show. As of March 17, The Playhouse said only 10 seats remained for the show.

Combining British wit with an ability to know exactly what you are thinking, Antoniou puts on a show. Join him as he reads minds and tickles

funny bones, telling jokes and fortunes live on stage.

Tickets are available for $25 in advance (theplayhouseatwhitelake.ludus.com, at the box office or the Whitehall City Hall) and $30 the day of the show.

From astonishing the judges on America’s Got Talent, to headlining in Las Vegas, to selling out shows in

London’s West End, Peter Antoniou’s mind reading skills have entertained audiences around the globe.

Peter Antoniou, the "Psychic" Comedian, is scheduled to perform at The Playhouse at White Lake Friday, April 24.

• Courtesy Image

FILER CREDIT UNION

Y E A R S

Member Focused. Community Based. Financial Wellness.

1951 — 2026

Our Story, Your Community

In 1951, a group of employees at the American Box Board Company (now Packaging Corporation of America) in Filer City, Michigan came together with a simple idea: a community based financial institution based on people helping people - a credit union. What started as a small cooperative has grown into a trusted financial partner for over 14,000 members across the state of Michigan.

1951

Founded by employees of the American Box Board Company 2020s

Opened membership across the entire state of Michigan with an inspired focus of modern technologies

Why Grow with Filer?

Member Focused Not-for-profit. Every decision is made with you in mind.

Local Decisions

2026

Celebrating 75 years with four branches and 14,000+ members