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Oceana mourns the tragic loss of Cindy Lewis

Oceana County is mourning the July 6 loss of Cindy Lewis, the beloved visionary behind Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo in New Era.

The Lewis Farms Team posted the following statement on their Facebook page, July 7: "We are heartbroken to confirm the tragic passing of our beloved co-owner, Cindy Lewis, in an incident that occurred onsite while the farm was closed to the public. Cindy was not only a cherished leader of Lewis Farms, but also a devoted wife, mother and friend to so many in our community. Her sudden loss is devastating beyond words.

"To those who have reached out with kind words, stories and cherished memories of Cindy, thank you. Your messages have brought comfort in this dark time and have helped keep Cindy’s memory alive in the most beautiful way. She touched countless lives, and the love being shown in her honor is a reflection of the incredible person she was. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our community. Please join us in continuing to honor Cindy’s life by treating one another with the same kindness, grace and dignity that she so effortlessly shared with the world.

"The Lewis family, our

staff and everyone who knew and loved Cindy are experiencing profound grief. This is an incredibly painful time for multiple families, and we ask for space, compassion and respect as they navigate this unimaginable loss together. Out of respect for the family and the integrity of the official investigation, we will not be commenting further at this time."

A July 7 media release from the Oceana County Sheriff's Office provided further details: On Friday, July 4, 2025 at 7:46 a.m., deputies received a call for a personal injury accident (at) Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo for a report of a person who had been struck by a vehicle.

The accident involved business owner Cindy Lewis, a 56-year-old female, (who) suffered multiple injuries and later died at Trinity Health in Ann Arbor July 6, 2025. (The) driver of the vehicle was a 61-year-old New Era woman, who was also an employee at Lewis Adventure Farm. The original caller to Mason-Oceana 911 told dispatchers that a person had been struck by a vehicle and was still trapped under it.

When deputies arrived on scene, they found the victim had been extricated from under the vehicle, and rescue personnel were attending to her injuries. Mrs. Lewis was transported by Life EMS to Trinity Health-Muskegon (and) later airlifted to Henry Ford Hospital-Detroit.

"We do not believe al-

cohol or drugs to be any factor in this accident. Deputies conducted a thorough investigation of the accident and driver involved," Undersheriff Ryan Schiller stated. "It appeared as if the driver of the vehicle didn’t see Mrs. Lewis as she was entering the parking lot. The incident and investigation will be turned over to the Oceana County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for their review.

"Mrs. Lewis was a positive, energetic pillar of our community, integral in the continued growth and development of the family business. We extend our deepest sympathy to the entire Lewis family. This is a tragic loss for our community, and we know that this tragedy will affect not only our community but many others. Please keep the Lewis family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate these difficult days."

The release also listed that those responding to the scene were the Shelby-Benona Fire Department, Life EMS and the sheriff's office was assisted by Mason-Oceana 911.

Later on Monday, the Lewis Farms Team posted an additional statement on their Facebook page: "It's impossible to fully express what Cindy Lewis meant to Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo - she was the very heart of the adventure. Cindy poured her soul into every aspect of the farm, from caring deeply for the animals to generously sharing her infectious spirit

with employees and guests alike.

"Second only to the love she had for her family was the joy she found in working alongside them to build Lewis Farms. Through her vision and unwavering dedication, a humble roadside fruit stand blossomed into a beloved zoo and agritourism destination.

"Cindy's joy could be felt in every corner of the farm. On busy days, she cheerfully bounced from task to task, lending a hand wherever it was needed. On quieter ones, she could be found visiting her cherished animals and checking in with staff. Her generosity was boundless - perhaps her most remarkable trait. Few have given so freely, so often, and so thoughtfully to those they loved. From unexpected gifts and treats to joyful celebrations, Cindy made everyone feel seen, valued, and cared for.

"While most people build routines around themselves, Cindy's days were centered on her animals, her family, and her friends. She was selfless, kind, and radiant in all she did.

"To say she will be missed is a profound understatement. Lewis Farms will never be the same without her. Yet we know she would want us to carry on, to work hard, and to continue bringing joy to the families who visit. Her legacy will live on in every smile, every laugh, and every shared moment at the farm she so dearly loved."

EveningswiththeEchobeginJuly17

By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

It's a summer full of milestones and celebration for The Oceana Echo. Last month, your trusty, local paper marked its second year serving our community, and next month will have delivered 1,500,000 issues!

Echo Publishing Inc. Vice President Amanda Dodge enthuses, “We are really excited about these accomplishments! We love what we do and are so thankful to serve our community.”

In honor of these achievements, the Echo staff is hosting a number of “Evening with the Echo” events in multiple locations where the papers are delivered every Friday. Each “Evening with the Echo” will include a presentation about the Echo, a Q&A with Echo staff and an opportunity to give feedback, refreshments from a local establishment, a photo contest with live voting and an opportunity to support the Echo with a donation. “We would love to hear from our readers as we continue to raise funds to keep the Echo and Mirror coming free to almost 15,000 area homes each week,” Dodge said. "We are looking forward to the photo contest as well."

Rules for the photo contest are as follows: it is open to anyone, with one photo per person, and the photo must be of the community in which the “Evening with the Echo” event is held. Photos can be submitted via email to Brendan Samuels at brendan@oceanaecho.com or turned in the night of the event. The photos must not have appeared in any other publication, and the photographer must be present in-person at the event to sign a release for potential use in the Echo should their photo win the contest. Two photos from each community will be chosen and featured in the Echo (one for the live community vote that evening and one by Echo staff members). Winners will receive their photo featured in the Echo or Mirror. These special community events will take place from now through October. This month's are:

July 17 - Thursday, 6-7 p.m. at Park Place in Pentwater July 24 - Thursday, 6-7 p.m. at the Hart Community Center July 29 - Tuesday, 6-7 p.m. at the Mears UMC July 31 - Thursday, 6-7 p.m. at The Ladder in Shelby Dates and locations for events in Walkerville, Hesperia, Ferry, New Era, Rothbury, Montague and Whitehall will be announced as they are confirmed.

If you enjoy reading the local news featured in the Echo and Mirror, be sure to attend an “Evening with the Echo” when it comes to your neighborhood, and support our nonprofit newspaper with your contribution towards this gift to our community.

Boy rescued after being buried in the sand dunes on July 4

According to a press release from the Oceana County Sheriff's Office, on Friday, July 4, at 9:29 p.m., deputies received a call for a child who was buried in the sand near the turnaround area of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The caller reported that the child had been buried for approximately three to five minutes and that there were about 30 people digging in the last location that the child was seen.

Multiple deputies who were staging in Silver Lake in preparation for the fireworks detail that was scheduled that evening responded to the scene.

The accident involved a 9-year-old male from Fenton, Michigan. Like many others, the child and his family were up in the sand dunes to watch the fireworks. The family had parked in the ORV parking lot and walked up the steps into the dunes to the pedestrian area.

Conservation Officer Logan Turner and Park Ranger Cody Anscombe overheard the radio call from the ORV area parking lot. They

responded to the scene in their side-by-side UTV and located the caller. When Officer Turner arrived, the child had been removed from the sand and was blue in color with no pulse. Officer Turner and Ranger Anscombe began CPR when a physician also arrived on the scene. They did approximately 80 CPR compressions when the boy began to cough.

"When deputies arrived on the scene, DNR officers were attending to the needs of the child and making arrangements to meet Life EMS in the staging area," Undersheriff Ryan Schiller stated. "The great working relationships that we have with all of the agencies in our area (are) absolutely key!"

The patient was transported by Life EMS to Trinity Health – Muskegon for treatment.

A very similar incident occurred last year on June 9, 2024 with a 12-year-old Petoskey boy. That incident also had a positive outcome, but not without some serious complications and hurdles along the way.

"We are extremely thankful that this situation had a positive outcome. We encourage

anyone who may take children to the sand dunes to talk with them about the dangers of digging in the dunes," Schiller added. "Digging in the dunes is inherently different than digging anywhere else. The sand is much more unstable and can quickly cave in around a person. This not only happens to children, but can easily happen to adults as well.

"The holiday weekend was extremely busy anywhere near the lakeshore, specifically the sand dunes. While we had large crowds all weekend enjoying the water and outdoor activities we only had two injury related accidents, and none were determined to be serious in nature. We are grateful for the work that Think Dunes, Silver Lake Recreation Association and MiDNR are doing to promote a safe experience for dune enthusiasts."

Responding to the scene were Michigan DNR – Law Enforcement Division, Parks & Recreation Division, Oceana County Sheriff’s Office, Hart Area Fire Department, Life EMS and Schiller said they were assisted by Mason-Oceana 911.

Park Place in Pentwater

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

THANK YOU!

News and Notes

A huge thank you to all Great Lakes Energy customers who took the time to nominate us for the Great Lakes Energy Community Grant award being offered in June. We were not chosen as a semi-finalist, however, your votes of confidence and support mean so much to us. Please join us at our first “Evening with the Echo” Thursday, July 17, from 6-7 p.m. at Park Place in Pentwater to learn more about our nonprofit newspaper and how you can help keep us coming to your mailbox every week!

Congratulations!

Happy 70th Anniversary to Mr. & Mrs. Bill and Darlene Askins on June 18, 2025! The couple celebrated at an open house in their honor on Saturday, June 22, 2025, at the Shelby Congregational Church.

The Oceana Echo extends their congratulations to New Era Police Chief Roy Strait, who retired July 3. As part of his 61-year career, many in Oceana County have benefited from Strait’s undying dedication to this county. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at one of Oceana County’s “living legacies” in an upcoming publication.

Strange But True

temperature of 101.9 degrees. Surprisingly, the average temperature for all of 2025 is only 43.1 degrees. (Just saying that ought to cool one off!) The maximum wind gust recorded so far in 2025 was 51.5 miles per hour on March 15. The Oceana Echo would love to connect with other county home weather station operators. Please contact us at the information at the end of this article.

One die-hard spectator was not going to lose his prime viewing spot for the Hart Sparks fireworks last Wednesday, July 2, in downtown Hart. He stayed seated under lightning and heavy rains that blew through the area shortly after 8 p.m. Thankfully the quick storm was over in 20 minutes, a double rainbow could be seen to the east, and festivities resumed, followed by fireworks at dusk.

Municipal

It was another great Fourth of July weekend here in Oceana County. Executive Director of the Hart/Silver Lake Visitors Center Scott Beal recapped, “With the 4th on Friday and great weather, it was the busiest holiday in years. No hard stats yet, however, year over year, visitor statistics are up for Silver Lake/Hart. Pure Michigan had us host German travel writers/bloggers who were visiting Silver Lake on their tour of Michigan. Many followers watched the fireworks on our webcam. As posted on social media, our fireworks are so unique that it takes many people and logistics to put them on. And thankfully there were no serious accidents on the dunes.”

With the high winds that blew through the Midwest at the end of June, two racing pigeons, one from Ohio and another from Illinois, ended up in Oceana County. Thanks to the identifying information on each bird’s anklet, their owners were located. Keep an eagle eye on a future publication of The Oceana Echo to hear more about these amazing avians and their wild adventures!

Churches

First Baptist Church’s youngest missionary ever, Boone Boundy, the four-month-old son of Connor and Madison Boundy, traveled to the Dominican Republic with his mother and a team of 14 others (among whom there were three other young children) to bring a Vacation Bible School to a partner church there. Despite language and cultural differences and without ever speaking a word, this babe in arms broke every barrier with just his smile. His unconditional love and trust spoke volumes to the team and to those they were ministering to. “Boone Baby,” as he became affectionately known by his fellow team members, won’t ever remember having taken the trip, however, the witness and impression he left with the people in the DR will not soon be forgotten.

Rothbury Community Church is pleased to announce they will begin holding worship services in their new auditorium starting this Sunday, July 13. Services begin at 10 a.m. All welcome!

Weather

Calvin Roskam’s Oceana Center Wx KMIHart17 weather station records as of July 8 show the following 2025 statistics: 12.83 inches of rain and a high temperature of 87.4 degrees on June 22, making it a “feels like”

For those who may be wondering about the little orange flags on streets west of State Street in the Village of Shelby, Village Manager Phil Morse reported Frontier is currently laying fiber optic internet lines for the village. Some residents may also notice contractors working alongside their curbs in the coming days. Plummers of Caledonia is conducting a water distribution systems material inventory for the village in preparation for possible future water line replacement.

Local History

The historic Pioneer House Museum located in downtown Walkerville is undergoing a much-needed and requested facelift this month! Painting crews power-washed the historic structure last week and will be repainting it in the days to come. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for early August. The project is being made possible by grants from the Community Foundation of Oceana County and the Great Lakes People Fund.

Community Updates

The newly formed Southern Oceana Chamber of Commerce is pleased to report they have several new members and are currently working on bylaws for the organization. Those looking for more information or interested in joining this important group, visit the Shelby Area Chamber 49455 Facebook page.

Pete Roskam was one of 244 participants, and the sixth largest fundraiser, in this year’s Bike MS: West Michigan 2025, an annual fundraiser event held in Holland with the goal of raising money for Multiple Sclerosis research and support. Roskam’s personal fundraising goal was $5,000. He was able to personally raise a total of $7,452 of the total amount raised: $287,104.33! Thank you to everyone who had a part in this worthwhile cause.

The Stony Lake Sparkler 5K was another huge success, according to Sally Malnor, one of the event’s organizers. There were 963 participants: 305 participating in the one-mile fun run and 658 participating in the 5K! The oldest participant in the 5K was 93 years “young,” Elaine Matthews!! Top awards went to: Male Overall, Jeffrey Weber of Traverse City (16:57.4); Female Overall, Eliza Schwass of Scottville (18:40.4); Male Master, Lee Schwass of Scottville (17:52.0); Female Master, Zuzana Tomas of Ann Arbor (20:14.1); Male Grand Master, Kevin Schaaf of Grand Rapids (21:36.7); and Female Grand Master, Kay Schneider of Westphalia (27:31.0). “Even in the rain we had a record donation to the Crystal Valley Care Fund of $30,174!” said Malnor.

Organizers wish to sincerely thank all of the sponsors and participants.

Like live music? Enjoy great tunes from a variety of artists and groups nearly every night of the week at numerous locations throughout the county during the summer. Be sure to check out area chamber of commerce websites for more details!

Your Turn!

Have a tidbit of news to share? The Oceana Echo is interested in hearing more and may include your submission in a future edition! Please contact Sharon Hallack at sharon@oceanaecho.com.

MANY BLESSINGS Mkt

This page is brought to you by:

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

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

This week’s postcard is another example dated to over a century ago, 1906 to be exact. What struck me most about this one was the format. The photograph takes up about two-thirds of the front of the postcard, with a space left at the bottom for a brief message - as you will soon learn, the message scrawled at the bottom of our example was anything but brief.

The photograph is credited as being of “Oceana Beach, Pentwater, Mich.,” and featured seven houses perched on dune bluffs overlooking the beach, which features a remarkably low water line. Between the houses, all sweeping verandas and multiple stories, are pines towering twice the size of the already significantly tall structures, the lakeshore wind captured in the way the trunks bow inland. The scene looks almost innocuous, something we today might witness walking along the beaches of Pentwater.

What’s even more striking, and tricks the brain into perceiving the photo as more recent than it actually is, is that the postcard is in color. Many folks may not know this, but color photography is quite a bit older than we might realize. For almost as long as we’ve had photography, inventors have been looking for ways to accurately capture the world as it is in all its hues. The process seen on the postcard is an example of the most commercially widespread at the beginning of the 20th century: autochrome. The autochrome

color technique was invented by the Lumière brothers of cinema history fame and was available for commercial use as early as 1903. By the 1920s, thousands of postcards were being reproduced from autochrome photographs and saw widespread commercial use, though, granted, at a much higher expense than black and white photographs.

As I mentioned earlier, the entire message - sent to a Miss Clara Lind of 3251 Fifth Ave, Chicago, IL - squeezed onto the small blank space on the front of the postcard is as follows:

“October 26 - ‘06

Dear Clara - Haven’t time to write you a letter today so will drop you just a postal. Clara you don’t know how dissapointed [sic] I was when I heard I couldn’t get that place. Guess I will have to go back to Hart until Xmas at least. I don’t like to but Mrs Hansen wants me and I can get $3.50 there and I know it is a good place but don’t know how long I can stand it there on account of Edith. Was to Hart yesterday and went up to see Rob McMillan. He is very low. Looks as though he couldn’t last much longer. Clara will write you a letter soon. Love to all.

H.C.E.”

From what I can gather, H.C.E. is a friend of Miss Clara, who is mourning the rejection of either a housing or job opportunity and will have to return to their hometown for the time being. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? Thankfully, he or she seems to have secured employment and board from a Mrs. Hansen. $3.50 was about $125 in 1906 money, but I cannot figure if that rate is per day or a total for the projected work until Christmas. The only issue seems to be Edith, and let me say that “on account of Edith” is the second reason this postcard caught my eye. Who is Edith? What did she do? I am pleading with a postcard to reveal this century-past drama.

Insofar as the players in this story: Clara Lind is mentioned about 10 years later in the Mears Newz on the occasions she visits home to see her family. The Linds seem to have been prominent business owners in Oceana. The identity of H.C.E. is, of course, a bit difficult to parse. Clara’s sister Grace seems to be friends with Mary Edlund, so my only guess is that H.C.E. is another Edlund. Trolling the archives reveals only Hadden, Hannah, and Herman Edlund. However, I am not confident any of these are our H.C.E.

Now, I do have one Edith connected to Clara Lind, Edith Holcomb, but again, that is not necessarily our perpetrator - Edith was a popular name back then, after all. This is just what I’ve discovered through connecting red strings in between various names like a film noir detective on the verge of a mental break. At least for our one full-named individual, Rob McMillan did not recover from whatever ailment he suffered, as his headstone in Hart Cemetery reads 18841906, rather tragic as he was only 22.

As for any connection between the postcard photo and the sender/sendee, perhaps this was just a beloved sight, or maybe H.C.E. worked for one of the owners of the houses pictured, or maybe H.C.E. felt really awful about their tardiness sending Clara a letter and thought she might be assuaged by the flashy autochrome photograph.

As always, if any readers have any information that may help me get to the bottom of interpersonal drama from 119 years ago, it is much appreciated.

Submissions open for Michigan State Fair 4-H and Youth Virtual Showcase

Michigan State University Extension has partnered with the Michigan State Fair to offer again this year the Michigan State Fair 4-H and Youth Virtual Showcase!

This statewide showcase provides a virtual platform for youth across Michigan to exhibit their work in all project areas and apply for up to $1,000 scholarships. Any Michigan youth ages 5-19 is encouraged to participate; 4-H membership is not required. (So feel free to share with Michigan-based friends and family!)

The diverse array of classes celebrates all the projects and programs in which youth have developed skill and mastery. This includes livestock and animal showmanship classes, as well as still exhibits, educational projects and more. There is no cost to participate, and youth may engage in as many classes as they wish by submitting project photos and videos.

Entry registration is now open and will close on

August 8. 4-H members may register by clicking as an exhibitor and then clicking on the green button and using their 4-H Online login. Non-4-H members may register by clicking the blue sign-in button and creating an account. For help with registering, contact Janelle Stewart at stewa191@msu.edu or Laura VanEtten at harr1325@msu.edu.

Project evaluation occurs before the start of the Michigan State Fair so that winners can be announced at the event, which occurs August 29 -September 1. In addition to the opportunity to showcase their skills, recognize their accomplishments and receive constructive feedback for growth and development, participants in the Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase also have the opportunity to apply for scholarships in a value of up to $1,000 apiece. Find the applications and criteria on the Michigan State

Fair website or go to Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase. The link for information is: https:// www.canr.msu.edu/virtual-showcase/index .

Organizers hope many youth will consider submitting a project and then applying for the scholarship. Consider this like a county or state fair one may attend in person but entirely online! If there is something one might submit at a county fair, they can submit it here in some way! So, as preparation continues for the local fair, exhibitors should take a video or photos of favorite completed projects and submit them for the State Virtual Showcase!

For assistance with registering for the Showcase please reach out to Janelle Stewart at stewa191@msu. edu. For assistance or questions about the scholarships, please contact Laurie Rivetto at rivettol@msu. edu.

Ongoing

M&TH: Pentwater Farmers Market, Village Green, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

MON: Movies in the Park, John Gurney Park, Hart, starts at dusk.

TUES: Crafts for Kids, Shelby Area Dist. Library 9 a.m. to noon.

TUES: Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

TUES: TOPS, Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 p.m.

1st & 3rd

TUES: Tech help,Pentwater Twp. Library, 1-2 p.m.

2nd & 4th

TUES: New Era Farmer’s Market, NECRC, 4-7 p.m.

3rd TUES: Pentwater Jr. Women’s Club - Feeding America

W. Mich. mobile food pantry, Pentwater Fire Dept., 11 a.m.

WED: Love INC and TrueNorth Housing Assistance satelliteplease call 231-861-4880 to make an appointment.

WED: Music in the Garden, Main Street Spa, Hart, 7-9 p.m.

1st & 3rd WED: Free community dinner, 5-6 p.m., Hart Wesleyan. 1st & 3rd WED: Hart VFW Post 1329 Burger/Chicken/Brat/ Ribs Night, 5-7 p.m., dine-in or carry out.

THURS: Maker’s Market, Hart Commons, 6-9 p.m.

FRI: Free Book Fridays for Youth, SADL (June 27-July 25)

FRI: Story Time, HCL, 10-11 a.m., and Tween Night, 3-5 p.m.

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

2nd & 4th FRI: Knights of Columbus Bingo, 6 p.m., St. Gregory Parish Center, 214 S. Peach Ave., Hart, doors open at 4 p.m.

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

SAT: Pioneer House open, Walkerville, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Ladder Community Center:

Adult Hours: M-TH 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and FRI 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

M-TH: “Summer Breakout” for 6th-12th grade youth (June-Aug.)

MON: Bring Clothes in for Mending, 10:30 a.m. to noon (July)

MON: Women’s Bible Study, 1-2 p.m. (new time)

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

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

July 11: Retirement Open House, 4-6 p.m.

July 15: SOS: History of Sayles School, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

July 25: Live Music by the Jammers, 10 a.m. to noon

Aug. 8: Top Rung Golf Scramble, 9 a.m., Oceana Golf Club

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Hart Historic District Summer Concert Series begins

The Hart Historic District Summer Concert Series begins tonight, Friday, July 11 and runs through Friday, Aug. 8, featuring country band Silverado both nights. All concerts start at 7 p.m., and attendees should bring a lawn chair. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved inside. The full lineup includes:

• Friday, July 11: Silverado - playing classic country hits

• Friday, July 18: Mike Snell, Renee Jacobs and Bryan Mahan - an acoustic blend of old favorites and original songs.

• Friday, July 25: The Formers - Oh Brother's house band from Montague, playing hard-driving Americana.

• Friday, August 1: Gina and Jordan - Newaygo's first couple of cuteness! Gina's sultry vocals and Jordan's unique guitar style create an entertaining duo.

• Friday, August 8: Silverado - these favorites are back to close the series.

Pentwater Civic Band delights for 77th season

The Pentwater Civic Band has been filling warm summer evenings with music since 1947. Their concerts are free, and take place on the Pentwater Village Green from 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays through Labor Day. Bring a chair or blanket.

Community band concerts were a near-universal feature of American small towns up until the advent of radio and recorded music. This tradition still continues in tiny Pentwater, Michigan – population 857 full time residents in 2010.

All musicians are welcome, whether they are 80 years old or still in high school (please plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before the downbeat). Some members have played in the group every week for decades, and some may only play once a summer. It is true that they have no conductor and minimal organization. However, it is not true that they never practice – they do once a year whether they need it or not.

They play a lot of marches, polkas, show tunes and old favorites. Members funnel their suggestions to the first cornet, who chooses the tune (they do take requests from the audience, as well). He then calls it out to the rest of the band, the drums provide the beat and they are off and playing.

Concerts are a great way to enjoy both the sunset and wonderful music! The band guarantees that attendees are going to have a good time regardless of age, but youngsters will have a really great time. The band usually plays The Chicken Dance about halfway through the hour, to the kids’ (and their) special delight. The evening ends with a medley of "Merrily We Roll Along" and "Auld Lang Syne."

Whether one wants to play or just listen, join in on Thursday nights during the band's 77th year for an unforgettable summer experience.

July 11 - Bicycle Clinic and Rodeo, Hart VFW, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 11 - Silverado, Hart Historic District Concert, 7 p.m.

July 11-12 - Shelby Chainsaw Carving Festival, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

July 12 - Pentwater Fine Arts & Crafts Fair, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

July 13 - St. Joseph & St. Vincent's Ox Roast and Homecoming, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m, 2349 W. Jackson Road, Hart.

July 13 - Ice Cream Social, St. Paul Church, Ludington, 3-5 p.m.

July 13 - Music at the Marina, Steve Chapel, Pentwater 3-5 p.m.

July 14 - Painting with Bradley (adults only) HAPL, 6 p.m.

July 14 - Red Cross Blood Drive, Shelby Congregational UCC, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, noon to 6 p.m.

July 15 - Board Meeting, Hesperia Comm. Lib., 4:30-6 p.m.

July 16 - Summer Reading Teen Night, HCL, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

July 16 - A Hike Across Spain with Olivia, PTL, 6:30 p.m.

July 17 - Matinee Movie, Hesperia Comm. Lib., 1-3:30 p.m., Summer Reading Family Night, 6-7 p.m.

July 17 - Southern Oceana Area C of C meeting, SADL, 4 p.m.

July 17 - Evening with the Echo, Park Place, Pentwater, 6-7 p.m.

July 17 - Friendship Ring Quilt Guild, NERC, 7 p.m.

July 17 - Family Story Hour Painting Activity, HAPL, 7 p.m.

July 18 - Music & Learn with Miss Barbara, HAPL, 11 a.m.

July 18 - Mike Snell, Hart Historic District Concert, 7 p.m.

July 20 - Outdoor Worship/Baptismal Service, Picnic and Ice Cream Social, FBC of Hart, John Gurney Park, 9:30 a.m.

July 20 - Music at the Marina, Third Coast Swing, Pentwater 3-5 p.m.

Hart VFW to host 2nd annual Bike Rodeo today

The VFW Post 1329 of Hart invites all area youth to its second annual Bicycle Clinic and Rodeo Friday, July 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The post is located at 802 S. State St. in Hart. Two local bike shops, Oceana Bike and Boat of Hart and The Wood Shed of Mears, will be on hand performing free service and minor repairs for participants. A bicycle obstacle course and bicycle safety instruction will also be an important part of the event. Bike helmets will be provided by the Hart City Police Department. A light lunch will be served. Please contact Barb Locke at 231-301-1502 for more information.

Pentwater Lake Association board meeting July 21

The Pentwater Lake Association board of directors will meet on Monday, July 21, 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 through 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.

Adventure awaits at Pentwater Township Library

In April 2025, Olivia backpacked 500 miles on the ancient pilgrimage trail, the Camino de Santiago, in Spain. The path goes through small towns and big cities, over mountains and through vineyards, with impressive historical sites and buildings throughout. Come to the Pentwater Township Library, Tuesday, July 15 at 6:30 p.m. to hear about her adventures, see amazing pictures and ask any questions about the trip.

Ox Roast this Sunday at St. Joseph in Weare

The popular St. Joseph and St. Vincent's annual Ox Roast and Homecoming is set for this Sunday, July 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event will take place in the St. Joseph's Faith Formation Center in Weare, 2349 W. Jackson Rd., Hart.

Prices have stayed the same as last year, with adult dinners at $15, children 6-10 at $6 and children 5 and under free. Takeout is also available for $15 per meal. Tickets may be purchased at the door or online at www.StJosephWeare.org.

Organizers will be serving up traditional ox roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, asparagus, baked beans, coleslaw and dessert. Attendees can dine in the air-conditioned hall or outside under the big top.

This being 74 years of a community event, it will also include a silent auction, a white elephant booth, baked goods, raffles and tours of beautiful St. Joseph Catholic Church to go along with a fantastic beef dinner with all of the trimmings! For more information, please call the Parish Office at 231-873-5776, visit their website or check them out on Facebook.

Free Ice Cream Social at St. Paul Church July 13

The community is invited to a free Ice Cream Social at the Ludington Area St. Paul Church (on the corner of Kinney and Morton Road in Riverton Township). The event will take place this Sunday, July 13, from 3-5 p.m. Yard games and a bouncy house will be available. Please call (231) 843-3275 with any questions.

Hoeing ‘In the Garden’ Part 3: ‘Faith - Striking Gold ’

By Janet Van Gunst Hasselbring

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

“…that your faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise at the final appearing of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:7)

It is seven miles from Country Dairy to Lake Michigan. My father would have had to see around many curves, over hills and past farms, yet he claimed that, on a clear day, he could see the lake from the front porch of our home (present-day Country Dairy).

There’s a wonderful analogy in my father’s claim, for, just as he could “see” the lake despite the curves and hills, my parents’ faith enabled them to see past the cornfields, the cherry orchards, the clothesline and the pasture to a life beyond the material. Just as my father knew the lake would be at the end of the road, my parents knew that, at the end of their earthly pilgrimage, laden with parched fields, blighted cherry crops, diseased cows, rotted potatoes and sick children, heaven awaited them.

“…a continual looking forward to eternity is not a form of escapism or wishful thinking –a leaving of the present world, but one of the things a Chris-

tian is meant to do. History teaches us that those who did the most for the present world were those who thought most of the next. Aim at heaven and you get the world thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither.” (C.S. Lewis)

Although my parents set their sights on eternity, they were deeply connected to the earth, digging in the fields and gardens to eke out a living. In their daily chores, reading scripture and prayer, they met their Lord and formed an intimacy with their Creator, seeking to do His will and follow His commands. All the while, God was with them, testing and strengthening their faith.

“Faith is what God asks of us. His invisibility is the test of faith. To know who sees Him, God makes Himself invisible.”

(Laura Hillenbrand, "Unbroken")

“Those whose prayers are not answered in the way they would have chosen, those who trust God through hurt and disappointment, reap a heavenly reward. They endure

St. John the Baptist Catholic Chapel St. John the Baptist Chapel

S. 50th Avenue Claybanks Sunday Mass: 8:30 am Easter Sunday through the end of September Call 231-893-3085 for more information

by faith and faith alone. (Billy Graham)

The process of refining gold is an apt analogy for understanding how God allowed trials in my parents’ lives to produce the invaluable quality of faith. Gold refining involves melting the gold-bearing material with lead oxide and a flux. The lead separates the gold from the “slag.” The gold is then melted and cast into desired shapes. The goal is to achieve the highest degree of purity.

The comparisons are striking and obvious:

1. Like gold nuggets found in dirt, Henry and Ellen’s lives were connected to the

earth and the soil; nuggets are scarce and special, just as God’s children are to Him.

2. Removing impurities from gold dust requires firing. “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you…” (I Peter 4:12)

Perhaps God is more interested in what is happening in us than what’s happening to us.

3. Once melted, gold becomes malleable, allowing it to be formed into desired products. Accepting God’s will and being obedient to His Word shaped and formed my parents into

humble, obedient, trusting pilgrims of faith.

4. Once fired, gold achieves ductility – the ability to withstand stress. Suffering only deepened and cemented my parents’ faith.

5. Gold is valuable; however, as scripture reminds us, it is perishable. My parents never knew material wealth; however, they were rich in eternal values.

“Truth, like gold, is obtained not by its growth, but by the washing away and burning from it all that is not gold.”

(Tolstoy)

*For information regarding the memoir, "In the Garden," contact Janet at janethasselbring23@gmail.com.

Note: previous articles in the bi-monthly series can be found in the May 30, June 15 and June 27 issues of The Oceana Echo.

Newman Community Carnival set for August 9

Newman Christian Community Church will have its 2nd annual Community Carnival Saturday, Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The church is located at 4075 S. 132nd Ave. in Hesperia. The Conquerors Strength Team will perform from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and food will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event will also feature the following activities: outdoor games, a bouncy house, a dunk tank, balloons, face painting, free food, a Strongman show, a puppet show, children's crafts, music and an exhibition office chair basketball game.

Community services such as the fire department, the Oceana County Sheriff Canine Unit and much more will also be on hand for the festivities. Organizers look forward to seeing all those who are able to attend.

#1 Rated Campground on Google and TripAdvisor in Silver Lake Christian Campground Family Activities Rental Cabins & RVs Full Hook-Up Sites Pool and Ice Cream Shop dunesharbor.org 231-873-3662

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

David Robert Erickson

September 20, 1958 ~ March 3, 2025

David Robert Erickson died March 3, 2025, in the loving arms of family and staff at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility. David was born September 20, 1958, to Marjorie Jean Field and Douglas Lee Erickson in Hart, Michigan. He being the third child born to this marriage. Jane Elizabeth and Paul Douglas being his older siblings. Marge and Doug had purchased her grandparents’ home on Church Street in Hart, Doug able to walk to Powers to work, and Marge a stay-at-home mother. The family lived an idyllic life in Oceana County with dozens of cousins, grandparents, and a strong sense of family. Summers camping in Pentwater in the big tent, perch fishing and hiking Old Baldy. David's love for Pentwater was forged early, and he stayed faithful for life.

The family was struck with Doug falling ill, and Marge was left to raise the three children alone. In 1967, fate gifted Mother with a strong man, LeRoy Don Peterson. He being in need of a life partner, they married that June. He brought with him three children also. Earl LeRoy, Kittie Evelyn and Judy Ann. The families blended perfectly, with David still being the youngest. That meant a move from town to the farm out on the Walkerville Road. Sweet and sour cherries, acres of woods and the beautiful Pentwater River to spend hours hiking, biking and hunting. Horses in the barn, tractors and learning the life of a fruit grower. Don was a successful fruit grower, and brother Earl soon began his Custom Cherry Shaking business. Working the cherry harvest on the shaker crew, David forged many friendships that are strong to this day. He was an athlete at Hart High School, earning his letters in wrestling, often pitted against a good friend from a rival school in the West Michigan Conference.

As a young man, David bought Art Henry’s spray truck and worked long hours spraying crops. Along with that, he signed on with the Western Geophysical survey crew. Oceana County was being explored heavily for natural gas, and this was the beginning of his career as a Landman. David took the classes necessary to become a licensed Real Estate agent, and began a fruitful career representing many utility and exploration companies in the procurement of minerals and rights-of-way. David knew Michigan like no other. His work took him to nearly every courthouse in Michigan, searching the records to perfect titles and execute leases. His vast knowledge of counties and geology served him well. He traveled to other states for work, sometimes towing his Rinker speedboat to explore places like Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana and the Mississippi River.

Uncle Dave settled in his beloved Pentwater, living in a custom home by Charlie’s Marina. He moored his beautiful Formula there and would often take a crew out for a moonlit ride on Lake Michigan. He was an avid water skier as well as a snow skier. He made many a trip to the slopes in northern Michigan and out west to Heavenly Resort at Lake Tahoe. He took up snowboarding and loved the powder. Uncle Dave was well known around the village, having many fondly call him “Uncle Dave.” He could shoot pool with the best of them and had his custom cues.

David was preceded in death by his fathers, Douglas and LeRoy Don. He is survived by: his mother, Marjorie; his sisters, Jane (Ray) Sequin, Kittie (Tom) Osborn, and Judy (Doug) Kurzer; his brothers, Earl (Linda) Peterson and Paul (Stacia) Erickson. Having no children of his own, he was a special Uncle to: Amy Sequin, Kittie (Kade Swenor) Tuinstra, Abe (Tonya) Kurzer, Peter (Annette) Kurzer, Stacy (Matt) Fornier, Theresa Osborn, Sarah (Eric) Schlukebir, Aaron (Jennifer) Peterson, Mark (Gaby) Peterson, Jake Erickson, Michael (Krista) Erickson, Nate AndresMooi, Ethan (Kelly) Poppaw-Andres and Justin (Alexandra) AndresMooi.

A Celebration of Life will be held July 27 in Pentwater at the Channel Lane Pavilion, from 1-5 p.m.

Monica May Baranski

May 4, 1938 ~ July 2, 2025

Monica May Baranski, 87, of Shelby, passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025. She was born May 4, 1938, in Detroit, the daughter of Stanley and Elizabeth (Ziobron) Wierzbicki.

Following high school, Monica worked as a comptroller for the railroad. She had various hobbies, including sewing and jigsaw puzzles, but most of all she loved spending time with her family.

Monica and her husband, William, owned and operated The Whitehouse Restaurant, in Clare, for 27 years, until retirement in 2003. They were also faithful members of St. Gregory Catholic Church in Hart.

Monica is survived by: her children, Cheryl (Mark) Wilde, Judy Williams and William J. (Sharon) Baranski; grandchildren, Evan Wilde, Rene (Cory) Lynch, Blair (Tom) Woodgate, Taylor (Nagdav Amruthnath) Baranski and Will Baranski; and great-grandchildren Naomi Lynch and Isla Pagadal.

Monica married the love of her life, William R. Baranski on May 9, 1959, in Detroit, and he preceded her in death on June 16, 2014. She was also preceded in death by: her parents; and brother, Reginald Wierzbicki. Private interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Midland, Michigan. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

John Christian Herremans

March 18, 1935 ~ July 3, 2025

John Christian Herremans, age 90, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a coura geous battle with cancer, with much love and support from his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Rosa (VanAgtmael) Herremans; and beloved son Patrick (Pat) Neil Herremans.

John will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 68 years, Donna (Kingsford) Herremans; children, Craig (Lynda) Herremans, Kathleen Herremans, Louis (Gwen) Herremans and Michael (Audrey) Herremans; grandchildren, Jonathan (Jamie) Herremans, Brittany (Joe) Carl, Michele (Leo) Uber, Krysta (Jacob) Deshaler, Brianna (R.J.) Viskstis, Kayla Erickson, Ashley (Jerry) Gran, Christian (Nicole) Herremans, Morgan Herremans, Blake Herremans, Cole Herremans, Landen Herremans and Braden Herremans; and 14 great-grandchildren.

John was born March 18, 1935, in Ravenna, Mich. He moved as a young boy with his family to a farm near Walkerville, where he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and love for the land alongside his siblings Josephine, Barbara, Edward and Louis. John graduated from Walkerville High School, then attended a farm implements and sales program at Michigan State College and also went to auctioneering school. Following school, he served his country with honor in the U.S. Marine Corps for a four-year enlistment and was stationed in Okinawa immediately following the Korean War. Upon returning to the States, John married Donna Kingsford, whom he had met at a dance prior to his enlistment. They moved to the Cherry Point Marine Air Base in Havelock, N.C. where they lived for two years and welcomed their first child.

In 1959, John moved his young family back to Walkerville, where he joined his father both on the farm and in the auctioneering business. John, Donna and their five children worked side by side together raising beef and growing corn, hay, and eventually some fruit and asparagus. In addition to his busy farming and auctioneering career, John served as Leavitt Township supervisor, was a member of the Oceana County Sheriff’s Posse for many years, served on the Oceana Hospital Board and drove bus for Walkerville Schools. In the late 60s, John established the Four Star 4-H Beef Club, which still exists today. Once his children outgrew 4-H, he volunteered his services as the auctioneer for the Small & Junior Market Auction and went every year to watch the cattle judging and several of his grandchildren show their animals at the Oceana County Fair.

Even in his later years, he continued auctioneering, using his humor and quick wit to bring in the bids. Auctions were a labor of love for him, and he was always thrilled to have his kids, their spouses and grandchildren involved. His grandchildren especially cherished time with Grandpa - he made every chore fun (especially feeding the barn cats and the cattle he loved), and every visit was an adventure. He has been enjoying meeting and teasing his great-grandchildren whenever he could. John's life was full of good memories, hard work, laughter, service to his community and much love.

Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at St. Joseph Weare Catholic Church, 2380 E. Jackson Rd., Hart, MI 49420. Visitation will be from 5–7 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart. A luncheon will be served following the burial at Elbridge Township Hall, 2266 E. Polk Road, Hart.

In memory of John and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420, or Newaygo County Compassion Home, 20 S. Stewart Ave., Fremont, MI 49412.

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

www.beaconfh.com

Janice Nancy Ann Beard March 31, 1937 ~ June 25, 2025

Janice Nancy Ann Beard, 88, from Hart, passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2025. She was born March 31, 1937, in Fenmore, Michigan, the daughter of Rev. Earl Edwin and Loisa Alice (Christensen) Gladding. She was the youngest of eight siblings.

Janice graduated from Vestaburg High School in 1955. She married the love of her life, Dr. Jared Lee Beard on March 2, 1956. They were married in the Sumner Center Church of the Nazarene, the church that Jared’s dad, Rev. Arthur Beard, had started.

Janice was her husband’s medical assistant and midwife during his home delivery years. She was an ac tive homemaker, and as a hobby farmer, she raised sheep for the 4-H kids. Janice enjoyed quilt making with the Helping Hand group, created hooked rugs, was an avid reader and loved southern gospel music, especially the Gaithers.

Janice is survived by: her children, Jared Michael (Erna) Beard, Marcia (Michael) Bear, Sheryl (David) Hodge, and Justis (Jenny) Beard; 15 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.

Janice was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Dr. Jared L. Beard; granddaughter, Natalie Elizabeth Hodge; great-granddaughter, Nova Rae Beard; four brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49455. Visitation will be held from noon until 2 p.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home. Interment will be in Elm Hall Cemetery at a later date.

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

CUSTOMER

By JoAnn Derson

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

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

YORK, NY 10019

• On July 14, 1953, the George Washington Carver National Monument, founded by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and created by Audrey Corwin in 1952, was dedicated in Missouri. It was the first such site to honor a Black American as well as a nonpresident.

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STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250630 FOR RELEASE JUNE 30, 2025

By Lucie Winborne

• On July 15, 1997, while on a killing spree, Andrew Cunanan murdered world-renowned Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace with two gunshots to the head on the steps outside Versace’s Miami mansion before fleeing the scene. Eight days later, he was discovered dead by suicide on a houseboat 40 blocks from the designer’s home.

• On July 16, 1769, Father Junipero Serra, a Spanish Franciscan missionary, founded the first Catholic mission in California in what is present-day San Diego. After blessing his new outpost in a high mass, the Royal Standard of Spain was unfurled over the mission, which Serra christened San Diego de Alcala.

• On July 17, 1945, President Harry S. Truman recorded his initial impression of Joseph Stalin in his diary, describing their first meeting, a discussion of post-World War II policy in Europe, as “cordial” and closing the entry with the words, “I can deal with Stalin. He is honest, but smart as hell.”

• On July 18, 1986, new close-up videotapes of the sunken ocean liner Titanic, taken from the first manned expedition to the wreck and showing one of the ship’s grand staircases and a coral-covered chandelier, were released to the public.

• On July 19, 1952, air traffic controllers in Washington, D.C., detected UFOs over the White House and U.S. Capitol building. More appeared a week later, but the government dismissed the sightings as just a harmless weather phenomenon.

• On July 20, 1923, Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa died in a storm of 40 bullets while driving through Parral, Mexico. He was buried the next day, but three years later the grave was dug up and his skull was stolen. Officially, the identity of the robber remains a mystery, as does that of the person who ordered the assassination.

• “Check your mower to see if you are cutting your lawn to the optimum height. Generally, cutting grass to two and a half inches will allow it to retain more moisture, requiring less watering.” — O.F. in Alabama

• Want to make that summer at-home pedicure last? Don’t skip the base coat or a UV topcoat. The base coat will allow the color to adhere evenly and better. Then the topcoat will protect the color from the sun while giving it a little extra shine.

• Did you know you can curl your hair with straws? Wind sections of damp hair around a plastic straw and secure the ends with a bobby pin. Allow to dry in the sun or use a hair dryer on low heat. Remove and spritz with hair spray.

• Remove all of the air from a plastic storage bag with a drinking straw. Slip the straw into the bag and close as much as possible. Then suck any air out through the straw, and quickly pull out and close in a single motion. Your leftovers will stay fresh longer, and foods may stack better in the freezer.

• “Necklaces can be stored together without tangling if you thread each one through a straw. You can cut the straw to a shorter length for bracelets or choker-length necklaces. No knots!”

— I.A. in Arizona

• “If you need a long, straight line, never fear. Grab a ball of yarn or string, and cut what you need. Then rub the whole length over a piece of chalkboard chalk. With a partner, you can hold the string taut and snap it down, like a rubber band. It will leave a line of chalk behind!” — L.S. in Minnesota

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

By Lucie Winborne

• Squirrels play a role in reforestation by forgetting some of the buried nuts and seeds they store, which then sprout into new trees.

• In late 1800’s Australia, some desperate sufferers of rheumatism climbed into a whale carcass in their search for relief, and were told to remain there for 20-30 hours, with occasional breaks. The heat and gases emitted by the decomposing animal were believed to create a sweat box of healing compounds.

• Acrylic nails were invented in 1957 by a dentist experimenting with how to create an artificial fingernail to protect his thumb after he’d accidentally cut it.

• The Inuit people used goggles made from bone, wood or other hard material to protect their eyes from UV rays more than 2,000 years ago, designed to cover the eye while leaving a small slit to see through. The slit narrowed and sharpened the wearer’s field of vision while protecting their eyes from snow glare.

• In 1980, Detroit gave Saddam Hussein a key to the city out of recognition of donations he had made to local churches.

• School desks have 300 times more bacteria than a toilet seat.

• Marion Donovan created the first practical disposable diaper in 1950 by using shower curtains for plastic covering and layers of tissue as the inner absorbent material.

• Uranus rotates on its side, appearing to roll around the sun like a ball, according to NASA. The most likely explanation for this unusual orientation is that it experienced some type of massive collision in ancient times.

• American Christians are more likely to take “morally neutral” risks when they think about God as a benevolent protector.

***

TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 14, 2025 and reaffirmed on June 11, 2025, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted Ordinance No. 2025-02, an ordinance amending the Township of Pentwater Zoning Ordinance with respect to the undefined land use known as Lodges. The principal provisions of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

1. Removal of the permitted Special Land Use known as Lodges: The amendments remove the undefined land use referred to as Lodges from Sections 4.03(J); 5.03(H); 6.03(G); 7.03(F); and, 11.03(J) of the Pentwater Township Zoning Ordinance.

2. Effective Date. The ordinance shall become effective seven (7) days after publication in a local newspaper of general circulation within Pentwater Township.

A copy of the zoning ordinance amendment may be inspected or acquired from the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N. Hancock Street, within the Township, during regular office hours.

TOWNSHIP BOARD

Dated: July 11, 2025. TOWNSHIP

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Cindy Anne Lewis

May 24, 1969 ~ July 6, 2025

Cindy Anne Lewis passed away on July 6, 2025, at the age of 56. She was born on May 24, 1969, to Tim and Lil lian Zerkle.

Cindy was the visionary behind Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, a cherished destination in the community. What began as a simple farm market blossomed under her leadership into a vibrant agritourism haven, filled with joy, family memories, and an extraordinary love for animals. From alpacas to zebras, Cindy poured her heart into every corner of the farm, sharing her passion and warmth with all who visited. Her ever-present smile and boundless energy made her a light to everyone who crossed her path.

Above all, Cindy was devoted to her family. She was a proud, loving wife and an incredibly dedicated mother. Her children were her greatest pride and joy, and she treasured the opportunity to work alongside them each day. She celebrated their accomplishments and character with deep gratitude and unwavering love.

Cindy is survived by her husband, Scott Lewis; her sons, Tyler (Becca) Lewis and Brandon (Makenna) Lewis; brothers, Tim (Patty) Zerkle and Jon (Jenny) Zerkle; and her father-in-law, Gary Lewis; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews, extended family, and countless friends who became family through the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tim and Lillian Zerkle, and her mother-in-law, Brenda Lewis.

Cindy’s legacy will live on in the joy she created, the lives she touched, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.

There will be no services held at this time.

Patricia Alice Tate

May 13, 1930 ~ June 8, 2025

Patricia Alice Tate, 95, of Shelby, went to be with her Lord, Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Patricia was born on May 13, 1930, at U of M LyingIn Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Later in 1930, she was adopted by a loving couple, Ivan and Hazel (Brown) Lewis, of Hart, Michigan. In 1935, the Lewis family moved to Shelby, where she lived most of her life.

Patricia worked in her father’s grocery business, Cherry Hill Supermarket. She graduated with the class of 1948 from Shelby High School, then attended Mercy Central School of Nursing in Grand Rapids, finishing in Muskegon. Patricia was a member of the U.S. Naval Reserves during the Korean War, receiving an honorable discharge.

On June 13, 1953, Patricia married Max N. Tate of Crystal Valley. They lived in Flint for a few years before moving to Shelby. She worked at the original Shelby Hospital, then at Oceana Hospital and later for the District 5 Health Department as a family planning nurse until her retirement in April of 1991.

Patricia was a member of the Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ, a charter member of the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society, a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, a former Girl Scout leader in Shelby for the Michigan Pine and Dunes Council, and a member of: the Lakeshore Ladies Red Hat Society, Oceana County Council on Aging Center, VFW Post 1329 Ladies Auxiliary in Hart, Lakeshore Hospital Guild and a volunteer at Love INC in Shelby.

Patricia enjoyed family activities: her church, crafts, crocheting and reading, as well as traveling to many places, including Alaska with their motorhome and 15 years wintering in Florida.

Patricia is survived by: her daughters, Peggy A. Vallier and Ruth E. Burmeister; grandson, Curtis R. (Patricia) Vallier; granddaughter Brittney C. (Casey) Singer; great-granddaughters, Anneliesa and Miley; and great-grandsons Alexander and Oliver.

Patricia was preceded in death by: her husband, Max N. Tate; son, Paul Tate; daughter, Janet K. Barber and two babies; great-granddaughter, Jaycee Rose Sunshine Vallier; parents, Ivan and Hazel; and half-sister Anna Mary Daugherty Jefferson.

Memorial services will be conducted at noon, Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, Michigan, 49455. Military honors will be presented. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the start of services at the church. Interment will be at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Shelby.

Please consider memorial donations to: Love INC of Oceana County, 191 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, MI 49455; or The Ladder Community Center, 67 N. State St., Shelby, Michigan 49455; or the Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ, Shelby, Michigan.

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

John Fredrick Kroon

December

30, 1942 ~ July 5, 2025

John Fredrick Kroon, 82, of New Era, Mich. passed away Saturday, July 5, 2025. He was born December 30, 1942, in Detroit, the son of Jacob Arthur and Margaret Mary (Hugye) Kroon. He died suddenly of a heart attack while visiting his daughters in Allen Park.

John was a man of God, high school teacher, Army veteran, mechanical engineer and a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus who served as Past Grand Knight of the Mary Queen of Peace Hart Council 2199. John was a brightly shining beacon of faith, hope and charity to all who knew him, especially his children. He was their cheerleader, encourager and a true model of Cath olic fatherhood. John loved the Lord with his whole heart and loved his neighbor as himself for the love of God. Always concerned about the well-being of others, a defender of life, an adventurer and a joyful player of games, his legacy will live on in his children and in the campground he provided for his family. We pray that his example of perseverance in the final seven years of his life on kidney dialysis will inspire in everyone who knew him a greater respect for life.

John is survived by: his wife, Amy; children, Alysia (Greg) Bouchard, Nathan, Theresa and Jenny Kroon; grandchildren, Ben and Ellie Bouchard; sister, Mary Ellen (Edward) Simpson; brothers, Arthur (Mary) Kroon, Martin and Michael Kroon; and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by: his parents, Jacob Arthur and Margaret Mary Kroon; brother, Jack (Margaret) Kroon; and sister, Margaret (Sam) Zainea.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 17, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 6825 S. 50th Ave., Montague, Michigan 49437, with Rev. Ronald Hutchinson presiding. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49455, and one hour before the service at the church. Interment will follow at St. John's Cemetery with military honors. Luncheon to follow.

Flowers are welcome. Please consider memorial contributions to: The Samuel Omogo Foundation, 1751 28th St. SW, Wyoming, MI 49519 (www.SamuelOmogoFoundation.org).

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

Lynn Shannon Bromley

May 8, 1942 ~ July 4, 2025

Lynn Shannon Bromley, 83, of Walkerville, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, July 4, 2025, at her home, surrounded by family. She was born May 8, 1942, in Twining, Michigan, the daughter of Rev. Justus Dowd and Aleta (Curtis) Dowd.

Lynn attended grade school at Twining Arenac Eastern. She later attended Walkerville High School, where she met the love of her life and husband of 63 years, Marlin Bromley. Following high school, she attended Palomar College, becoming a Registered Nurse. Lynn faithfully cared for others for 40 years, culminating in her becoming an educator, teaching the next generation of nurses. She then would go on to be the Administrator of Nursing for Mecosta General Hospital.

Lynn was also a very talented singer and used her beautiful music to minister the gospel to others. She was a member of singing groups Unanimous Voice and, later, Northern Edge. Lynn had recorded with Eddie Crook and Gaither and performed at and organized many gospel events and concerts in the West Michigan area.

Lynn and her family also ran a gospel radio show on WEEH and others for over 20 years. A familiar face at music nights in the Hart Historic District and then Hart’s Fridays in the Park, Lynn loved to minister through gospel music to her local community.

Lynn also enjoyed gospel cruises and was a faithful member of Walkerville Wesleyan Church, participating in many years of outreach. Above all, Lynn loved God, her church and her family. She will be dearly missed by all of those that she has touched over the years.

Lynn married Marlin A. Bromley, on July 2, 1962, and he survives her, along with: their children, Brett (Brenda) Bromley, Melody Kalfsbeek and Kelly Bromley; grandchildren, Petra, Evita, Therese, Gianna, and Josef Bromley, Shane (Sheree) Montie, Shannon Montie (Dalton), Cheyenne Kalfsbeek (Anthony), Nancy and Jennie Bromley, Crystal (Alan) Davison, and Justus and Dean Bromley; 20 great-grandchildren; and sister, Lois Lavery.

Lynn was preceded in death by: her parents, Rev. Justus and Aleta Dowd; sister, Pearl Moody; brother, Curtis Dowd; and granddaughter, Casey K. Bromley. Memorial services will be conducted at 1 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025, at Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 144 176th Ave., Walkerville, MI 49459, with Pastor Bob Abbott officiating.

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

NAF shares recap and successes

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Another asparagus season is behind us, and it’s already been a month since the 2025 festival (June 12-15)! The Oceana Echo is pleased to provide this quick recap for the community.

“It was a great success,” reported NAF Chairperson Michele Amstutz. “We were pleased to see the excitement around the new Friday Night Kickoff Concert. Both the Spear It 5K and Taste of Asparagus were successful and saw an increase in participation. I was also happy to hear positive feedback regarding the change in the parade route. Logistically it was easier for our staff, and as a participant, there were fewer large gaps between entries, which we haven't seen in many years. We can't thank our volunteers, sponsors and those who attended enough for making this year fantastic!"

The world premiere film screening of the documentary “Did You Guys Eat?/¿Yo comierion?” saw nearly 100 people in attendance, Thursday, June 12. The expertly-done documentary produced and directed by Alma Professor Stephany Slaughter presented a wide spectrum of firsthand accounts, from small family farms to migrant workers, sharing the activities and lives behind what it takes to bring food to our tables. A panel discussion, which included nearly a dozen different stakeholders, answered questions and shared personal perspectives and stories.

Friday night’s kickoff party at the Oceana County Fairgrounds was very well attended for the first year. Organizers estimated about 300 people were in attendance. “We had people of all ages there to listen to the band and several up dancing to their favorites. The crowd loved the band, and we had several Facebook comments to please bring them back next year,” Lindsay Brown, event organizer, said. “Food was sold/served by the Oceana County Firefighters Training Group and all proceeds from that went to them, so that was a nice way to give back to the community.”

This year’s Spear-It 5K saw 22 more runners than last year! Winners included the following: Top male finisher - Overall, Bobby Jazwinski of Shelby (15:30.1); Top

female finisher - Overall, Hannah Slattery of Hart (20:22.7); Top male finisher - Master, Matthew Gutteridge of Fenton (20:46.4); Top female finisher - Master, Tressa Wenk of Montague (24:12.3); Male 75-59, Dean Denman of Shelby (28:28.2); Male 9 and under, S. Gage of Hart (26:54.7); Female 75-59, Kathy Calabretta of Ludington (28:10.5); and Female 9 and under, C. Curtis, Rochester, Minn. (27:15.1). All race results are available at nationalasparagusfestival.org/5k.

The Taste of Asparagus Food Show welcomed between 300-400 people to taste asparagus made in a variety of ways. The increased attendance was likely due to the fact that the car show was going on at the same time at the same venue. Winners included First Place - Emmi’s Mediterranean Asparagus Salad, First Runner-Up - Claudia’s Spicy Refrigerator Pickled Asparagus, Second Runner-Up - Asparagus Queen Shelby Purdy’s Asparagus Jelly, Queen’s Choice - Aiden’s Creamy Asparagus Soup and People’s Choice - Suri Sierra’s Chicken Asparagus “Gumbo.”

This year’s Farm Tours also included a visit to the Asparagus Research Farm located on Oceana Drive adjacent to the West Michigan Research Station. “We had about 40 people turn out to both stops on the tour, the research farm and Riley Farms. It was a really engaging group with a lot of questions about asparagus. It was a lot of fun to be able to talk with them and answer their questions. Something I found interesting (was) the majority of the group were not from the area, with some folks driving as far away as five hours. So the festival certainly has a wide reach,” shared Justin Adams, West Michigan Research Station farm manager and NAF farm tour guide.

The weekend ended with the Oceana County Airport Association selling 760 tickets for their annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast! Skies were clear, and many were able to enjoy various aircraft on display, catching up with friends, neighbors and welcoming visitors.

Asparagus Queen Shelby Purdy and Runner-up Haley Walsworth made appearances at every festival event they could. From their coronation on Friday to Sunday’s pancake breakfast, they kicked off their busy year ahead meeting and greeting the thousands of visitors in town that weekend!

PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 11, 2025, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted Ordinance No. 2025-05, an ordinance amending the Township of Pentwater Zoning Ordinance with respect to the regulation of retaining walls. The principal provisions of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

1. Definition of Retaining Wall: Provides a definition of Retaining Wall in Section 2.18 of Chapter 2 of the Pentwater Township Zoning Ordinance.

2. Section 3.38 – Retaining Walls: The Amendment includes a new Section to Chapter 3, known as Section 3.38 – Retain Walls providing required setbacks from property lines. Regulations for retaining walls to create a change in elevation of 30 inches (30”) or more, and to require a Zoning Permit prior to construction of retaining walls.

3. Effective Date. The ordinance shall become effective seven (7) days after publication in a local newspaper of general circulation within Pentwater Township.

A copy of the zoning ordinance amendment may be inspected or acquired from the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N. Hancock Street, within the Township, during regular office hours.

TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE Dated: July 11, 2025. TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER

Conservation Stewards Program

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program offers eight weeks of instruction delivered between September and November 2025, including weekly online course content, in-person lectures, field instruction, and more.

Michigan State University Extension’s Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) is now enrolling participants for its Fall 2025 programs, which will span eight weeks in September through November. In 2025, CSP will be offered across six cohort locations, including one in Oceana County.

During each week of instruction, the hybrid program will combine virtual, selfpaced lessons with in-person evening sessions at various locations within Newaygo County. This cohort will host their weekly evening sessions on Monday evenings, 6-8:30 p.m., from Sept. 8 to Nov. 3, 2025.

Additionally, two Saturday in-person field trips within the region will be held on September 27 at Lake Michigan Family Camp and Oct. 11 at Claybanks and Benona Township Farms. Participants will also complete applied capstone projects related to restoring and conserving Michigan’s ecosystems with guidance provided by a local mentor.

Partner organizations for the Oceana County Cohort include:

• Oceana Conservation District

• Fremont Area Community Foundation

• White Water Watershed Partnership

• Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

• Michigan Natural Features Inventory

• MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams

The last date to register will be Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, with scholarship opportunities available for all. For addi-

tional details of the Conservation Stewards Program and to register, please visit events.anr.msu.edu/micsp2025.

About the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program is an educational program for adult learners offered by Michigan State University Extension and collaboratively planned with many diverse partner organizations. CSP is geared toward those who are enthusiastic about learning science-based ecosystem management principles, getting involved in on-theground stewardship efforts, sharing their knowledge and experiences with the public, and empowering others to get engaged in improving their local area.

Through the Conservation Stewards Program, participants learn essential strategies to understand and help restore and conserve ecosystems in Michigan communities. To learn more about CSP and the 2025 cohort locations, please visit the website at canr.msu.edu/csp.

For cohort and content-related questions, please reach out to Laura Ackerman at laura.ackerman@macd.org or Erick Elgin at elgineri@msu.edu.

For general questions and registration assistance, please contact Shelby Warner at warner80@msu.edu or (517) 884-7076.

PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 14, 2025, and reaffirmed on June 11, 2025, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted Ordinance No. 2025-01 amending the Township of Pentwater Zoning Ordinance with respect to Section 3.08 – Accessory Buildings and Uses of the Pentwater Township Zoning Ordinance. The principal provisions of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

1. SECTION 3.08 ACCESSORY BUILDING AND USES

(A. through E.) No change.

F. The maximum gross floor area for all accessory buildings located on the same lot, whether attached or detached:

(1) For single and two-family dwellings:

(a) 720 square feet for parcels less than 10,000 square feet.

(b) 1,000 square feet for parcels at least 10,000 square feet in area, but less than two acres.

(d) 2,500 square feet for parcels five acres or more

(2) Other uses:

(a) Buildings accessory to agricultural operations: No size or height limitation.

(b) Multiple family developments: Nine hundred sixty (960) square feet, excluding garages for the use of residents.

(d) Uses in non-residential districts and non-residential uses in residential districts: Not to exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the floor area of the main building(s).

(G. through K.) No change.

2. Effective Date. The ordinance shall become effective seven (7) days after publication in a local newspaper of general circulation within the Township.

A copy of the zoning ordinance amendment may be inspected or acquired at the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N. Hancock Street, within the Township, during regular office hours.

Dated: July 11, 2025.

TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE

TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER

Bienvenidos event a success

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Members of the West MI Migrant Resource Council (WMMRC) played a critical role in organizing the Bienvenidos event, held in partnership with Feeding America, United Way of the Lakeshore, the Community Foundation of Oceana County, the Oceana County Fair Board and many other dedicated local volunteers June 18 at the Oceana County Fairgrounds.

“The event marked a major step forward in welcoming and recognizing farmworkers as vital members of the Oceana County community,” said Jo Estrada-Guerra, WMMRC member.

Despite rainy weather, the atmosphere remained upbeat and welcoming. The grounds were filled with music, conversation, raffles and genuine community spirit.

Over 7,100 pounds of food were packaged and distributed to over 110 families. In addition, a local agency resource fair with over eight organizations participating offered essential information about programs and services available to farmworkers and their families. Non-farmworker residents joined the event and learned more about local resources as well.

According to Estrada-Guerra, two highlights of the event came from MSU Researcher Dr. Deyanira Nevarez-Martinez, who had attended with the intention of gathering input from five farmworkers as part of the statewide enumeration study set to be available in two years. She left with 11 responses and expressed great appreciation for the opportunity to connect directly with the community. And thanks to the personal outreach by planning members, nearly 20 H-2A visa workers attended, many receiving food bags, clothing and other goodies. It was truly heartwarming to see them leave with their hands full and smiles on their faces, Estrada-Guerra shared.

Many interesting statistics about Michigan agriculture can be found on the Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development website, www.michigan.gov/mdard. Here are just a few: Michigan produces more than 300 commodities on a commercial basis, with the food and agriculture industry contributing $104.7 billion annually to the state's economy. Livestock (including dairy) has the greatest economic impact at $5.13 billion, followed by field crops with an economic impact of $5.12 billion. The total impact of nursery and landscape production, including backward-linked industries, is $1.26 billion. The direct value of the vegetable sector is $278.32 million, with a total economic impact of approximately $428.2 million. The direct economic impact of fruit production in the state is $485.44 million. The total economic activity, including backward-linked industries related to fruit production, is $753.01 million. Michigan's food and agriculture system is a large portion of the state's workforce. Total employment resulting from this sector is approximately 805,000 workers, which accounts for about 17 percent of the state's employment.

The West Michigan Migrant Resource Council hopes to make their Bienvenidos event an annual tradition with the goal of building stronger bonds between the community and the hands that feed them.

60th Annual Pentwater Fine Arts and Craft Fair set for this Saturday

The Pentwater Jr. Women’s Club would like to announce the upcoming 60th annual Pentwater Fine Arts and Craft Fair. The fair will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on the Village Green in downtown Pentwater.

The Fine Arts and Craft Fair is a juried fair. All work must be original and of the artist’s own creation. Painting, pottery, jewelry, photography, weaving, clothing, sculpture and other media will be available. Admission is free and there are refreshment stands on the Village Green. Questions may be directed to: pentwaterjrwomensclub@gmail.com

Bienvenidos evento un éxito

Por Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Corresponsal Comunitario

Los miembros del Consejo de Recursos para Migrantes de MI Oeste (WMMRC) desempeñaron un papel crucial en la organización del evento Bienvenidos, celebrado en colaboración con Feeding America, United Way of the Lakeshore, la Fundación Comunitaria del Condado de Oceana, la Junta de la Feria del Condado de Oceana y muchos otros voluntarios locales dedicados el 18 de junio en el recinto ferial del Condado de Oceana.

“El evento marcó un gran avance en la bienvenida y el reconocimiento de los trabajadores agrícolas como miembros vitales de la comunidad del Condado de Oceana,” dijo Jo Estrada-Guerra, miembro de WMMRC.

A pesar del clima lluvioso, la atmósfera se mantuvo animada y acogedora. Los terrenos estaban llenos de música, conversación, rifas y un auténtico espíritu comunitario.

Se empaquetaron y distribuyeron más de 7,100 libras de comida a más de 110 familias. Además, una feria de recursos de agencias locales con la participación de más de ocho organizaciones ofreció información esencial sobre programas y servicios disponibles para los trabajadores agrícolas y sus familias. Los residentes no trabajadores agrícolas también se unieron al evento y aprendieron más sobre los recursos locales.

Según Estrada-Guerra, dos aspectos destacados del evento vinieron de la investigadora de MSU, la Dra. Deyanira Nevarez-Martinez, quien asistió con la intención de recopilar información de cinco trabajadores agrícolas como parte del estudio de enumeración estatal que estará disponible en dos años. Se fue con 11 respuestas y expresó su gran agradecimiento por la oportunidad de conectarse directamente con la comu-

nidad. Y gracias al contacto personal de los miembros de planificación, casi 20 trabajadores con visa H-2A asistieron, muchos recibiendo bolsas de comida, ropa y otros obsequios. Fue verdaderamente conmovedor verlos irse con las manos llenas y sonrisas en sus rostros, compartió Estrada-Guerra.

Muchas estadísticas interesantes sobre la agricultura de Michigan se pueden encontrar en el sitio web del Departamento de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural de Michigan, www.michigan.gov/mdard. Aquí hay solo algunos: Michigan produce más de 300 productos básicos de manera comercial, con la industria alimentaria y agrícola contribuyendo con $104.7 mil millones anuales a la economía del estado. La ganadería (incluida la láctea) tiene el mayor impacto económico con $5.13 mil millones, seguida de los cultivos de campo con un impacto económico de $5.12 mil millones. El impacto total de la producción de viveros y paisajismo, incluyendo las industrias vinculadas hacia atrás, es de $1.26 mil millones. El valor directo del sector de vegetales es de $278.32 millones, con un impacto económico total de aproximadamente $428.2 millones. El impacto económico directo de la producción de frutas en el estado es de $485.44 millones. La actividad económica total, incluyendo las industrias vinculadas hacia atrás relacionadas con la producción de frutas, es de $753.01 millones. El sistema de alimentos y agricultura de Michigan representa una gran parte de la fuerza laboral del estado. El empleo total resultante de este sector es de aproximadamente 805,000 trabajadores, lo que representa alrededor del 17 por ciento del empleo del estado.

El Consejo de Recursos para Migrantes del Oeste de Michigan espera convertir su evento Bienvenidos en una tradición anual con el objetivo de fortalecer los lazos entre la comunidad y las manos que los alimentan.

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 14, 2025 and reaffirmed on June 11, 2025, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted Ordinance No. 2025-03, an ordinance amending the Township of Pentwater Zoning Ordinance with respect to fences in the front and rear yards of waterfront properties. The principal provisions of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

1. Height of fences within front and rear yards of waterfront properties: The amendment raises the height of fences in front and rear yards of waterfront properties from 3 feet to 4 feet.

2. Effective Date. The ordinance shall become effective seven (7) days after publication in a local newspaper of general circulation within Pentwater Township.

A copy of the zoning ordinance amendment may be inspected or acquired from the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N. Hancock Street, within the Township, during regular office hours.

TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE

Dated: July 11, 2025. TOWNSHIP

• Contributed Photos by Jo Estrada-Guerra

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Robert Walter Forester

Robert Walter Forester, 80, of Pentwater, Michigan, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hart. He was born June 7, 1945, in New York City to John and Hildegard (Reichelt) Baumsteiger.

After moving to Michigan and completing his bachelor’s degree, Robert started a long career in utilities management at Consumers Power Company and the Lansing Board of Water and Light. He married Kristin Lee (Johnston) Forester on August 16, 1969.

Robert was an avid lover of golf, fishing, boating and spending time with his wife and their long line of cherished rescue animals. Kristin survives him, along with their daughter, Nancy Lee Beyers (Anthony); daughter-in-law, Christine Smiggen Forester; grandson, Thomas Robert Forester; and many devoted family members and friends.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; and beloved son, Jeffrey Robert Forester.

Special thanks to the staff of the Oceana County Medical Care Facility and Elara Caring Hospice for their compassionate care of Robert and his family and friends.

Memorial services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Centenary United Methodist Church, 82 N. Hancock St., Pentwater, MI 49449, with a luncheon to follow.

Please make any memorial contributions to the Oceana County Animal Shelter at 2185 W. Baseline Rd., Shelby, MI 49455.

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

Obituary Information:

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

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting July 8, 2025

Regular Meeting called to order at 6:30 PM. Present: Robert Draper, Connie Cargill, Rachel Iteen, Bill Kolenda, Doug Dykstra and 17 guests.

Items approved:

• Minutes of Last month’s Township Board Meeting

• Bills Approved for Payment

• Emergency Services Building Sign

• PTAF Resolution

Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Copies of meeting minutes are available from the township and approved minutes on our website, www.goldentownship.org.

- Rachel Iteen, Clerk

Big Sable Point Lighthouse reopens

After months of anticipation and a temporary closure due to construction at Ludington State Park, Big Sable Point Lighthouse reopened to the public on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. .

• Open 7 Days a Week: June 25 – September 7. Mondays: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Tuesday – Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Fall Season: September 11 – October 26, Thursday – Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visitors can once again climb the lighthouse. Admission to climb the tower is $8 for adults, $5 for students 17 and under, and free for active service members and veterans. (Note: Children must be at least 40 inches tall and may not be carried up for safety.)

• Make the Journey Easier: Bus Days at Big Sable Point - skip the 2-mile hike and enjoy a scenic ride out to the lighthouse on bus days. This is one of the ways that Lakeshore Keepers makes an effort to ensure the lighthouses can be accessible to as many people as possible. Dates include: July 12 and 24, and August 2, 14 and 30.

Buses run from noon to 4:30 p.m. and tickets are $6 round-trip for adults, $3 one-way, and $4 round-trip for students (17 and under), $2 one-

way. (The tower climb ticket is not included.)

For updates and more information, visit: LakeshoreKeepers.org.

JOB POSTING

PART TIME UNIFORMED SECURITY OFFICER

H Security and Investigation is seeking a part time Uniformed Security Officer. The selected applicant will need to pass a background check in order to be considered for employment.

This position requires 1-2 days with hours set from 7:45 AM to 5:15 PM.

Starting compensation will be set at $14.50.

Interested applicants should contact Louis Herremans at (231) 873-8224. Please leave a message if there is no answer.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Benona Township Zoning Board of Appeals

The Benona Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to review a request from Robert & Greg Schierbeek for approval of a rear yard variance request to place a 12’ x 22’ timber framed storage shed / carport 18 ft. from the front property line instead of the required 25 ft. setback and 6 ft. from the right property line instead of the required 10 ft. setback (Zoning Ordinance Article VIII – Residential District 8.3 (e)). The property address is 7941 Beverly Street, Shelby, MI 49455 (Parcel #64011-580-033-00). The meeting will be held at the Benona Township Hall (7169 West Baker Road, Shelby, MI 49455). The application is available for review at the Township Hall during business hours. Questions or statements regarding this review may be directed to the Zoning Board of Appeals via Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator at the above address or e-mail benonazoning@ gmail.com. Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator Email: benonazoning@gmail.com

Hart Area Fire Department receives donation of new off-road rescue vehicle

The Hart Area Fire Department is excited to announce the donation of a new Polaris Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar edition Side-By-Side (SXS) offroad rescue vehicle. This rescue unit is in-service on the sand dunes in the summer and on the snowmobile trails in the winter.

The Hart Area Fire Department Administrative Board recognized the need to improve rescue times in specialized areas like the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and on local snowmobile trails. This SXS can also be used to access remote areas that are found on local farms. This rescue unit is identified as “Rescue 181”

Rescue 181 was put in-service for the 4th of July at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes, where it successfully responded to several medical emergencies.

This build was made possible by the generous donations of money and people’s time. The department and board wish to extend a special thanks to all of those who contributed:

• Todd & Adam Plummer for their complete purchase of the 2025 Polaris XD 1500 NorthStar Edition SXS, the decaling, and their time to pick it up and move it around during the building.

• Candance Monzo with PreRunner Invasion for the money they raised at their Silver Lake Sand Dunes event auction held at the Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar. The funds they raised were used to purchase a transport-capable EMS skid unit that allows patients to be transported more quickly to an ambulance.

• Leaders RPM assisted with securing a factory-direct Polaris order and expedited delivery.

• Whelen Engineering Company, INC., represented by C.S. Trojan & Associates, Inc., for the emergency lighting system, siren and scene lighting.

• Silverback Offroad for their purchase of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).

• FireHouse Films for donating their time and materials to tint the window to help keep the inside cab cool.

• Delia Tactical International L.L.C. for donating a Raptor tool to enhance Rescue 181’s technical capabilities.

• Golden Sands Golf Course & Bucket Bar for hosting the special events that contributed to the funds raised.

Friends of Silver Lake announces the results of the 2nd

Annual Silver Lake Kids Carp Cull Contest

Friends of Silver Lake proudly announces the results of their 2nd Annual Silver Lake Kids Carp Cull Contest, where over 200 nuisance carp were removed from the lake. Nineteen different kids participated this year and removed 202 carp from Silver Lake. The top Carp Cullers were Canton Williams, who submitted the greatest number of carp on a single Sunday with 35 carp culled on June 29, 2025, while Jace Baumann was the overall champion of the event, having submitted carp every Sunday in June and totaling 92 carp culled in 2025! The organization paid $2 per carp submitted along with a bonus of $50 to the kid with the largest weekly catch at each Sunday collection event in June. In addition to the cash prizes, participants received a Kids Carp Cull T-shirt, a certificate of appreciation, a carp bait recipe and bait cage to add to their fishing tackle and a coupon for food. The contest rules were simple: it is open only to kids 16 and under (fishing license not required), only nuisance carp qualify for reward payment, and the carp must be taken from Silver Lake in Mears. So participating kids could cull the

carp throughout the week and bring their catch to the Golden Township Park at Silver Lake Sand Dunes each Sunday in June.

Friends of Silver Lake also wish to thank Oceana County Commissioner Tim Beggs for managing disposal of the culled carp, Terri Puffenberger from SLDAPO for help in

promotion and The Bucket Bar for providing added incentives for participants.

Removing nuisance carp from Silver Lake helps promote the efforts to improve lake water quality, helps establish native aquatic plants and improves the overall lake fishery.

More Oceana

youth going to summer camp thanks to community partner support

This summer, 28 Oceana students will attend summer camp with the support of the Shelby Rotary Club, the Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) and its donor-advised partners! These students received a total of $6,865 in camp scholarships (or ‘camperships’) with individual awards ranging from $100 to $500 each. All applicants received a campership to help offset the cost.

Since 2015, the Shelby Rotary Club and the OCF have partnered each spring to provide camperships designed to help area youth experience a summer highlight. This initiative aims to make camp experiences accessible to children of all financial backgrounds, encouraging them to explore their interests and develop new skills outside the classroom. Students can apply for support for any camp of their choice, including arts, sports, faith, nature, leadership or academic-focused programs. The camp program supports both day and overnight camps, including those located across Michigan. Shelby Rotarian and Shelby Library Director Tiffany Haight oversees the scholarship application and selection process and is the main contact for any questions regarding the scholarship program.

home with new stories, friendships and cherished memories. Every child should be able to attend camp if they want, regardless of their family’s financial situation, and enjoy the opportunity to relax, have fun and be carefree.”

Camp is often a respite for young people, a break away from their daily lives to try something new and meet new people. Applicants shared in their essays how they want to improve their musical or sports skills, push themselves to try new things or learn how to hone their leadership and advocacy skills. Many acknowledged that lack of funds or other family struggles were a barrier to attending camp.

Awards were given to students of all ages, ranging from 3rd to 12th graders, across all school districts. Some will be attending local West Michigan camps like Camp Ao-Wa-Kiya, Grace Adventures and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Other popular

choices include Timber Wolf Lake - A Young Life Camp, sports camps at colleges, MyLead Leadership, Boy Scouts, Citizen Washington 4-H Camp, Camp Miniwanca Leadership Conference and Lake Ann Camp.

This year’s camperships were supported by eight of the OCF's donor-advised funds, including the Shelby Rotary Club Fund, Hart Rotary Club Fund, Kimmel Family Fund, Thomas Clair Fund for Young Musicians, Carnes Family Fund for Music Arts Camp, Pentwater Service Club Fund, David P. Markiewicz Memorial Fund and the Boy Scout Camp Fund.

Questions regarding the campership program can be directed to Haight at the Shelby Area District Library. To support future campership awards or establish your own named fund, please contact Foundation CEO Tammy Carey at tammy@oceanafoundation.org or 231-869-3377.

PUBLIC NOTICE

BENONA TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING

There will be a public hearing to discuss the Five-year Plan for Road Improvements and the Five-Year Plan for Parks & Recreation on Monday, July 28, 2025 at 6:00-6:45 PM at the Benona Township Hall. Public participation is encouraged.

Oceana County

ANIMAL SHELTER

Meet Leo – The Tiny King of Zoomies! Leo is a 4-month-old terrier mix who weighs a mere 13 lbs.

Don't let the name fool you—this Leo may be pint-sized, but he’s got the heart (and energy) of a lion… if lions were known for stealing socks and giving nose kisses.

At just 13 lbs., Leo is small enough to carry around like a fuzzy football, but big enough in personality to keep you laughing from sunup to sundown. He’s a puppy through and through— friendly, playful, curious and occasionally confused about what is and is not a chew toy.

Leo is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the shelter at 231-861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35 and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and will receive a $50 certificate good for spay/neuter if needed. Every dog should have an ID tag. L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231-7303906. Free tags are also available at the OCEANA County Animal Shelter.

“As a parent and librarian, I see firsthand what a difference a camp experience can have on a child’s life,” Haight shared. “It can be simple pleasures like swimming in a lake, staying up late in their cabin having 'parties' or trying a new activity that can make a big difference to a child’s outlook on life. They come

- Margie Shaw Benona Township Clerk

PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER COUNTY OF OCEANA, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 11, 2025, the Township Board of the Township of Pentwater adopted an ordinance amending the Township of Pentwater Zoning Ordinance with respect to the Township Zoning Board of Appeals and Variances. The principal provisions of the Ordinance can be summarized as follows:

1. Review Standards for Variances. The amendments establish new standards to be used by the Zoning Board of Appeals for use variances and for dimensional (non-use) variances.

2. Effective Date. The ordinance shall become effective on seven (7) days after publication in a local newspaper of general circulation within Pentwater Township.

A copy of the zoning ordinance amendment may be inspected or acquired at the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N. Hancock Street, within the Township, during regular office hours.

TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE

Dated: July 11, 2025. TOWNSHIP OF PENTWATER

FIREWORKS ON THE FOURTH FIREWORKS ON THE FOURTH

Crowds filled the streets for several community firework shows over the Fourth of July weekend. Pictured here are scenes from Hart Sparks, from Wednesday, July 2. Mother Nature reared its ugly head prior to the firework show, with thunderstorms rolling in before the clouds broke to reveal a double rainbow. Kids enjoyed several activities on the downtown streets before the light show began. The sky above Hart glowed with explosions of grandeur and an unforgettable finale. • Connie VanDerZanden and Amanda Dodge/Echo

Oceana County spring All-Conference athletes - Part 4

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

In part four of Oceana County’s spring All-Conference athletes, we will finish featuring baseball and softball standouts and move our attention to golf.

Last week, we honored six athletes from Hart and Shelby each. The Pirates were featured with the final two honorees from the girls track and field team, Ava Johnson and Emery Velat. Hart also got some love on the diamond, with senior Kelsey Copenhaver and junior Mackenna Carrier earning first team selections and

tion for softball. Senior Ty Schlukebir rounded out Hart’s baseball and softball collections with an honorable mention.

This week, Hart has four boys from the golf team that earned All-Conference honors. Senior Kaden Bond was the lone first team selection, followed by Braydan Baron, Luke VanderWilk and Logan Dean with honorable mentions.

All six of Shelby’s honorees last week were from the baseball and softball fields. Freshman duo Jayna Burmeister and Jordan Wolting were both first team selections while sophomore Emma Stovall was an honorable mention. For baseball, we started off with Cam Smith, DayDay Garcia and Trevor Weiss, all of whom were

first team honorees.

Finishing off the Tigers’ selections from the baseball team, we feature junior Eli Kelley this week. Kelley was named honorable mention for his work on the mound and the infield. Joining Kelley this week are three Shelby golfers. Sophomore Titan Carter won the WMC Rivers individual title, while taking a first team selection while teammates Nathan Miller and Rafael Davis Jr. both earned first team selections as well.

Hesperia had two selections last week with Destanie Smith and Jeri Ward being featured for softball. This week, the Panthers match that number as we feature Blake Sayer, a first team selection for

baseball and Nacho Lozano, a first team selection for golf.

Pentwater wrapped up its honorees for track and field last week, featuring Lauren Davis and Chase McGuire-VanGills. This week, the Falcons soar in with the most honorees as six athletes earned All-Conference nods on the fairways.

Mikey Carlson, Nathan Macher, Bode Powell, Edgar Vazquez and Gavin Macher were all named West Michigan D League first team selections, while Aiden Henry was given a second team honor.

Next week will be the final round up for the spring All-Conference selections, as we turn our attention to the soccer field to feature Hart and Shelby’s honorees.

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE Reflections

Montague teacher takes the plunge into writing

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

HESPERIA — Montague sixth-grade English teacher Heidi Meoak always tells her students to be brave and go outside their comfort zones. In completing her first novel - The Spirits at the Storyteller - this year, Meoak followed her own advice. The book, which came out in May, is available on Amazon, and Meoak had her first book signing event at her hometown library in Hesperia Tuesday afternoon, with somewhere between two and three dozen friends and readers turning out.

Meoak has always wanted to write, going back to reading the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder as a kid, but leery of trying to be a full-time author, sought a more stable career and became a teacher. The time demands of that career, as well as having a family - she and husband Thomas have two kids - put writing on the back burner for some time. She never forgot about writing, though - she said she has about a dozen story ideas that haven't been fully fleshed out - and after turning 40 in 2023, she was inspired to return to her first passion.

"Authors always talk about devoting at least an hour a day to writing," Meoak said. "When you work full-time and have kids, you can't always find an hour, so I just find time whenever I can. I wrote the whole story in four months, but with doing the editing process and rewrites, it took eight months for me (to finish in all). I self-published, and I don't know if I had a literary agent or

publisher if it would go faster."

Mother Nature provided an assist to Meoak in the final stages of getting her book finished in mid-January, when the Montague district had three consecutive snow days.

"That helped me get the editing process done," Meoak said. "My husband was working from home, so he watched the kids while I got that done."

The book, which is the first of an intended series called The Women of Sullivan's Pointe, draws on several things Meoak loves - close sister relationships, lakeside cottages, bookstores and supernatural storytelling. The book follows two recently widowed sisters who open a bookshop in the fiction-

al lakeside town of Sullivan's Pointe, Michigan, only to discover it is haunted by the ghost of both a woman and her murderer, launching both sisters into a mystery.

Meoak and her older sister Amber are "best friends," Meoak said, to the point where they would exasperate their husbands in earlier years by talking about how they would end up living together later on. The bookstore setting was inspired by a conversation with Amber a couple of months after Amber's husband unexpectedly passed away.

"(Our late-life plans to live together) got brought up again, and we talked about it and she said, 'We should

Author shares love of writing, quilting

By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — Dr. Susan Kruszynski was the featured speaker July 2 as the Friends of the Montague Library continued their Summer Book Talk series at the Book Nook & Java Shop.

open up a bookstore!'" Meoak said. "It opened up a story that I had had writer's block about."

Amber describes herself as "the caretaker" of Heidi's writing and read the book as it was being written as the two bounced ideas off each other. She also helped name one of the characters, Liesel, inspired by the same-named character in the well-known musical The Sound of Music.

"We just had fun thinking it up, and every once in a while I'd throw in a name or something and she'd take it," Amber said.

Montague

Montague author continued on page 2

Author shares love of writing, quilting at Book Nook

at Book Nook

Author shares love of writing, quilting at Book Nook

MONTAGUE — Dr. Susan Kruszynski was the featured speaker July 2 as the Friends of the Montague Library continued their Summer Book Talk series at the Book Nook & Java Shop.

Kruszynski spoke about her two published books on the art of quilting. A substantial crowd of crafters and art appreciators alike visited to hear Susan describe her craft, the places it's taken her, and her journey to becoming a published author.

Susan has been creating art quilts for over a decade now, after being inspired by the award-winning work of Ann Loveless in 2013’s ArtPrize competition. By that time, Susan had been sewing for most of her life, beginning in 4-H as a teenager. She was proficient in traditional quilt making by then, but had never realized the wide scope of fiber arts until seeing the large-scale fabric murals of Sleeping Bear Dunes in person. Not long after, Susan retired from her academic work as a literacy specialist teaching throughout West Michigan and took up the craft in earnest.

Only a few short years later, Susan’s art quilts saw their own ArtPrize debut in 2017 to much success, as she ranked in the top 25 of the competition. Her work was, like Loveless’, nature-inspired, and drew from her passion for books and children’s literacy by taking on the form of a storybook. The quilts illustrate a story - the rights to which were granted to Susan by the University of Michigan - of personified trees, with the message of showing goodwill and “paying it forward” to others.

Susan introduced the presentation as a merging

of her passions “loving on fabrics and loving books." She featured the storybook and accompanying quilts during the book talk, inviting an audience member to show off the quilts as she read through the story, affecting a gentle rhythm and different voices for each tree. The audience was given the opportunity to see Susan’s ArtPrize quilts up close and in breathtaking detail while the story progressed, which was no trouble for Susan, who says, “As an educator, it’s always fun for me to share my craft.”

While there are many different styles and forms of art quilting, the craft sets itself apart from long-standing traditional quilting of geometric patterns, taking on a more organic and representational aspect - just as much displayed artwork as functional blankets. As Susan describes it, “art quilting is painting with fabric.” She went on to describe how art quilting is an aspect of the greater field of fiber arts, a “big umbrella” which encompasses knitting, crocheting, sewing,

• Claire Marshall/Mirror

and embroidery.

Despite art quilting being her retirement project, Susan continues to teach, though now as an instructor in the art. She travels all over the country to spread her love of quilting and mentor others of all skill levels. Her talent of enrapturing a class was on display for her presentation. The audience was invited to peruse other examples of Susan’s work at their tables, write their questions on note cards, and participate in a prize drawing at the end of the talk. At one point, Susan likened the different types of quilting to various varieties of chocolates, with art quilting being like “dark chocolate… maybe sea-salt caramel dark chocolate,” because they are her favorites. To illustrate her point, Susan was kind enough to disperse chocolate amongst the audience. While there are many different styles and forms of art quilting, the craft sets itself apart from long-standing traditional quilting of geometric patterns, taking on a more organic and representational aspect - just as much displayed artwork as functional blankets. As Susan describes it, “art quilting is painting with fabric.” She went on to describe how art quilting is an aspect of the greater field of fiber arts, a “big umbrella” which encompasses knitting, crocheting, sewing, and embroidery.

and embroidery.

“Art quilting is just one of those fiber arts under that umbrella,” she said.

Susan went on to point out features which are unique to her “form” of art quilting, such as being collaged, raw-edged, and using adhesive backing on

Author and Montague teacher Heidi Meoak (right) signs a copy of her book, Spirits at the Storyteller, for a visitor to her book signing event at the Hesperia public library Tuesday. The book is Meoak's first, though she's long had a passion for writing.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Dr. Susan Kruszynski shows off one of her quilts during her Summer Book Talk event at the Book Nook & Java Shop July 2. Kruszynski has published two books about quilting and shared her passion for the art form.

• Claire Marshall/Mirror

The front cover of Heidi Meoak's first novel, The Spirits at the Storyteller.

• Heidi Meoak via Instagram

Author and Montague teacher Heidi Meoak (right) signs a copy of her book, Spirits at the Storyteller, for a visitor to her book signing event at the Hesperia public library Tuesday.

The book is Meoak's first, though she's long had a passion for writing.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

The front cover of Heidi Meoak's first novel, The Spirits at the Storyteller. • Heidi Meoak via Instagram

Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

Author and Montague teacher Heidi Meoak (right) signs a copy of her book, Spirits at the Storyteller, for a visitor to her book signing event at the Hesperia public library Tuesday.

The book is Meoak's first, though she's long had a passion for writing.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

The front cover of Heidi Meoak's first novel, The Spirits at the Storyteller. • Heidi Meoak via Instagram

Muskegon man drowns in White Lake July 5

According to multiple reports, a Muskegon-area man in his 40s drowned in White Lake in Montague over the July 4 weekend.

The Muskegon Professional Firefighters Union posted on Facebook at 9:32 p.m. Saturday, July 5, that the Muskegon Fire Department dive rescue team was assisting on a rescue mission.

The emergency originally was reported on emergency scanners at 8:28 p.m. as a male in his 40s underwater. At 9:10, the scanners further reported that given the amount of time that had passed, it was now a recovery effort.

Summer book talk

the fabric to keep the various pieces stiff and manageable while sewing. She also made sure to point out her artwork can function as "actual quilts,” as they are complete with a backing fabric, batting in the middle, and the design on top.

While the audience was more than interested to learn about the art itself, Susan recognized the presentation was a book talk and spent some time sharing her journey to becoming published, which began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I don’t do ‘nothing’ well,” Susan explained, and her restlessness led her to search through craft books for the names of their publishing companies, which she then searched to inquire about their submission process. Two of the companies had open proposal submissions for authors, and it was Fox Chapel Publishing who responded to her messages. Susan humorously recounts, “Maybe they were hungry for authors because it was COVID. They emailed me, and I emailed them back, and they emailed me, and I emailed them back and they must’ve said, ‘Woo, we’ve got a live one here.’”

Susan’s proposal was simple. By 2020 she had already been creating art quilts for six years, largely self-taught as there was little instruction on the craft accessible for readers. She wanted to create an instructional book which would allow interested be-

A WOOD-TV report said the man, who has not been publicly identified, was one of several who were boating on the lake and jumped into the lake to swim. The unmanned boat then began to float away; some of the party made it back to the boat and were able to pick up others who were in the water, but the man in question did not make it back.

Sunday evening, July 6, at 7:52 p.m., it was reported recovery of the body was underway, and it was completed Monday morning.

continued from page 1

ginners a place to start. Over the next couple months, Fox Chapel helped Susan tailor a proposal to fit the company’s mission, with both parties finally agreeing to a two-book contract on art quilt instruction. The journey from proposal to publication was 18 months of writing and photography, with guidance from the publishers. Susan described the latter task as the most challenging.

“The picture-taking was the hardest part for me because I’m not particularly a photographer,” she said.

She eventually made it work with an Android camera, a lightbox and a lot of “learning along the way.”

The two books are a Starter Guide to Creating Art Quilts, which is described as “an accessible starter guide to creating landscape-style art quilts,” and Art Quilts Made Easy: 12 Nature Inspired Projects with Applique Techniques and Tutorials, which intended “for beginners and experienced art quilters alike.”

While the photography took some trial and error, Susan had no trouble breaking down the craft into easily digestible step-by-step instructions, which she drew from her past experience.

“My biggest claim to fame is that I taught kindergarten once,” Susan laughed.

Montague author

"I've not asked for any money or compensation at this time. I just say that when she gets like Danielle Steel (to not forget me)," she added with a chuckle.

Meoak's real-life inspirations go beyond the main story, too. She drew upon a trip she and her husband made to the Ramsdell theater in Manistee for her book, and she also hopes to drive autism acceptance through a character in her series

Road work in Montague begins July 21

The City of Montague will begin a road construction project the week of July 21 that affects Park and Hunt streets.

Work will be done on Park ranging from the intersections with Dowling and Hunt streets, and on Hunt from the intersections with Park and Stebbins streets.

Prior to the full construction, there will be sidewalk removal and replacement work done on Park.

While the project is in progress, those streets will be closed to thru traffic but open to local traffic.

that has autism. Her own son has also been diagnosed.

"Even as progressive as we are nowadays, some people don't fully understand it," Meoak said. "I'm hoping that this series might bring a little more understanding to that."

Meoak has a fourbook outline for the series and is simultaneously working on the second and third books now, jumping from one to the other whenever she hits a slow point in one of them. She plans to have the se-

continued from page 1

quels each focus on a different woman who works in the Sullivan's Pointe bookshop, with the final one potentially led by the second sister character.

In the future, Meoak said she'd love to continue "the paranormal mystery vibe." She has a story idea similar to her Sullivan's Pointe series that could be set at a bed and breakfast, inspired by a family-owned spot in Bellaire that she follows on social media, and also has a book idea set on Mackinac Island. Histori-

cal fiction is a genre she'd love to explore.

Meaok would also love to have more book signing events and has been in touch with various libraries and bookshops around West Michigan. She's in talks to host one at the Grand Haven library in August or September.

In the long term, if her books do well enough, the possibility of being a full-time writer lingers, though Meoak also loves her teaching job. As with any good story, you never know what may come next.

"I belong to this online writer's group, and they say you have to fig-

SEALED BID NOTICE

CITY OF MONTAGUE

Date: 7/3/25

For Sale: 2016 Utility Police Interceptor AWD approximately 135,500 miles.

Vehicle can be viewed at the City of Montague DPW Garage 4976 Bowen St. Montague, MI 49437

Minimum bid is $4,000. Bid will be awarded to the highest bidder.

Submission Deadline: Sealed Bids must be dropped off by 11:00 AM on July 18, 2025 to Montague City Hall 8778 Ferry St. Montague, MI 49437 (temporarily located downstairs in council room). Envelope must be sealed and marked as “Bid for 2016 Interceptor” Contact: Melissa Beegle by telephone at 231332-6756 or email finance@cityofmontague. org with questions or for more information. Bid opening will be at 11:30 AM on July 18, 2025

Kindergarten aside, Susan had years of instructing adults of all skill levels art quilting, some of whom were in the audience, many with their own work to pass around. Despite Susan's beginning the presentation focusing on her journey through art quilting and publishing, she was more than happy to sate the audience’s curiosity on the technical aspects of her craft, sharing what materials she uses, her brainstorming process, and how she persevered and thrived in a craft she had primarily taught herself.

Quite simply, Susan answered: “I never know what I’m doing, because I always had to figure it out myself. And that’s probably my strongest point, is that I never know what I’m doing, but I’m not afraid to give it a try.”

Mobile food pantry returns to White Lake UCC July 19

White Lake Congregational UCC, located on Mears Avenue in Whitehall, will again host the Feeding America-West Michigan Mobile Food Pantry Saturday, July 19. The pantry provides supplemental groceries at no cost to anyone in need of emergency food.

No ID is required to receive food.

A simple registration begins at 8:30 a.m. in the church parking lot. Drive-thru style distribution is scheduled for 1011 a.m., rain or shine. For additional information and updates, visit the church's Facebook page.

ure out what your goal is," Meoak said. "I'd love to be a writer for whom that's their main source of income, but I don't know if that will happen. I'd love

to be noticed by a publishing house." For more information about Meoak's writing, visit her website, novelistheidijoy.com.

Close to 30 friends, family and supporters turned out Tuesday to the Hesperia library to get copies of Spirits at the Storyteller signed by author Heidi Meoak. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Saturday, July 12

MADL Montague hosts a nature hike @ Clear Springs Nature Preserve, 2 p.m.

Dave Burel performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

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

Sunday, July 13

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

Monday, July 14

MADL Montague hosts Music For All with Josh & Joe @ Montague Bandshell, 10:30 a.m.

Free ASL classes continue for week 5 @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6 p.m. Deaf mentor Leah Broomfield teaches 8 weeks of courses Mondays and Thursdays.

Live trivia @ Red Rooster Tavern,

Community Calendar

7 p.m.

FAN Club Mondays @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m. Live music on the North Mears Promenade.

Tuesday, July 15

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

Eugene Morningstar performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 2-4 p.m.

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

ACWL-Nuveen Free Summer Concert Series continues its 2025 season with On the Lash, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, July 16

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

Find out how your favorite shade of blue got its name and much more @ White Lake Community Library at

a live virtual event at 5:30 p.m. with Laura Keyes of Historic Voices. This free Zoom presentation will be shown in the library’s meeting room, or you can view it from home by registering at wlclib.org/calendar.

Summer Book Talk Series @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:30 p.m. Author Richard Smith speaks about his book The Yooperlite Conspiracy. Meetand-greet at 6:30, author presentation at 7.

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

Thursday, July 17

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

MADL Montague hosts a free teen

art event, 3 p.m. Create a unique set of tiles that can be used as coasters or art with sharpies and rubbing alcohol. Register at madl.org.

Christmas in July family event @ White Lake Communiy Library, 5:30 p.m. Summer Christmas crafts and carols will be part of the event.

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

Big Daddy Fox performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Friday, July 18

White River Light Station hosts a free summer concert, 7 p.m. Artist Cosmic Knot will perform.

Bent Carrot performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Echoes of History: Early history of White Lake (Part 2)

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

See last week's Mirror for Part 1 of this story.

City of Whitehall – In 1858 Whitehall was surveyed by A. M. Hiersch, who was employed by Charles Mears and Giles B. Slocum. At the time, the area was called Mears. To make sure the members of the Slocum and Mears families and friends who helped shape the town were not forgotten, they named the streets after them.

All the streets running east and west were named by the Slocum family, and all the streets running North and South represented the Mears family.

As early as 1862 there was widespread agitation concerning the name of “Mears.” A majority of the townspeople signed a petition, which was sent to the state legislature, to have the name changed. The name of Whitehall was chosen by combining the names of Charles Whitaker and Moses Hall, mill

owners who had erected an early sawmill near what is now Goodrich Park.

In 1865, Eagle Tannery Works opened in Whitehall. They closed in 2000. In August 2007 the 110-foot tower which had been used as a water tower for the tannery, was the final structure to be demolished at the 33-acre tannery property. The area is now the site of Tannery Bay, a new home construction community filled with 132 condominiums, townhomes, courtyard homes, and as well as single-family homes.

Whitehall was incorporated as a village in 1867 and became a city in 1943.

By 1873, Charles Mears and Samuel Odell had purchased land and plotted a new town of Mears in Oceana County.

In 1883, there were 13 lumber mills operating on White Lake. By the time the lumber industry peaked in the late 1880s, there were 16 sawmills that dotted the lake.

•

After the end of the lumbering era, many large steamships came to the area with passengers from Chicago looking to enjoy the cooling lake breezes at one of the many resorts that encircled White Lake and replaced the mills. Even after over 150 years, both towns

continue to survive and thrive. For additional information on local history, check out Remembering White Lake History on Facebook, as well as the White Lake Area Historical Society home page at www.whitelakeareahistoricalsociety.com.

Introducing library's new room reservation tool

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Reserving a room at the library just got a lot more convenient! Our new software lets you make your reservation anytime, anywhere, with just a few simple clicks. Need a private space for a telehealth visit or job interview? Looking for a place for your book club to meet? Want to host a community meeting or event? The library has you covered! To use this service, simply visit the library website at wlclib. org and look for the Reserve a Room option. From there you can see the available rooms, review the policy and terms of use, and submit an online application to reserve your time. After a quick review by library staff, you will receive an email confirming your reservation. It’s as easy as that.

up to three people, the Julie and Pat Donahue Legacy Room that will seat up to 15 people, and the large meeting room that holds 84. There is no charge for the study rooms or Legacy Room, and not-for-profit groups can use the meeting room without a charge. For-profit businesses and organizations will be charged a nominal fee. Please note, though - library policy does not allow for private events such as birthday parties and showers to be held at the library.

We are delighted to be able to offer this easy and convenient way for people to reserve our rooms. We know not everyone likes to do things online, so of course you can still give us a call at 231-894-9531 or stop in during open hours and we will gladly make your reservation for you. Either way, we look forward to seeing you soon!

FUN FACT: The Julie and Pat Donahue Legacy Room was recently renamed in memory of Julie Donahue. It was a generous donation from her and her husband Pat that allowed the library to transform the old screened porch into a 4-season room with glass windows, carpeting, and heat.

will feature 20 musical acts at 10 different locations in Montague and Whitehall. Everyone is invited to “walk the beat” from venue to venue and enjoy live music at every stop. There is no charge to attend, and everyone can enter free door prize drawings at each venue. The festival runs from 1-5 p.m. with an after-party in the North Mears Promenade from 5:30-9.

This annual music festival is a great community event, and the library is pleased to be a part of it. Come visit us at WaterDog Outfitters, where we will be sharing information about the library and selling raffle tickets. The raffle features a total of $5,000 in prize money divided among 3 lucky winners. Tickets cost $10 each, with half the proceeds staying with the nonprofit that sold it and the other half being used to support local music education and provide instruments to children in our community.

For more information, visit walkthebeat.org/whitelake.

Don’t Miss This Week’s Special Events!

Available rooms at the library include two study rooms that will hold

Walk the Beat Returns July 19

Now in its 4th year, Walk the Beat

There are still seats left for the Every Color Has a Story live zoom program for adults at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. Watch live at the library,

or register to receive the Zoom link and watch from the comfort of home. Laura Keyes of Historic Voices will reveal the incredible stories behind the colors that fill our world — from ancient dyes to modern pigments. Every shade, tint, and hue has a surprising history, and you’ll be amazed at how color has shaped the world around us. Don’t miss this colorful journey through time!

Bring the kids Thursday at 5:30 for the Christmas in July family night, featuring carols and crafts and various other forms of mid-summer merriment. All ages are welcome, and registration is not required. Just join us if you can!

Undated map of White Lake in Muskegon County. Montague is on the Northeast end of White Lake and Whitehall on the Southeast end. In the early days, the two towns were connected by a “Swing” bridge constructed across the White River in 1864.

Courtesy Photo

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

SPORTS SPORTS

It's time for the 2024-25 sports quotes of the year

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Longtime readers of mine may recall that I used to liven up the summer with an annual sports quotes of the year collection, in which I shared some of the more remarkable, interesting or just plain funny things said to me on the record in the course of sports coverage in a given academic year.

We're bringing that feature back at the Mirror, but with a slight twist. In the past, I compiled quotes that previously ran in stories as well as ones that didn't. This collection is exclusively made up of quotes you haven't read before. As per usual with collections like these, I have zero objective criteria for determining what's in this article, and I just picked the ones that stood out to me the most for one reason or another.

"It's interesting. On staff right now, we have coach (Jack) MacArthur, coach (Brandon) Rake, coach (Terrell) Harris, and coach (Casey) Huizenga. We also have a middle school coach, (Jarrean) Sargent, and all of them played for me. I don't know if that means we're creating a good experience and people want to be a part of it, or I'm just getting old. Maybe both." The 2024 season was a special one for the Whitehall football program, and not just because the Vikings won a district championship. Five former players coach Tony Sigmon coached when they were Viking players were on staff as assistant coaches within the program this year - a reflection, he wry-

ly noted, of his lengthy tenure as well as the program's positive atmosphere.

"I appreciated the refs tonight calling those fouls down low and my guards looking to me and giving me the assists." When game officials get shouted out in interviews, it's rarely complimentary, but Montague forward Amanda Cederquist was pleased and grateful that she was sent to the free throw line several times during a Wildcats win over Whitehall this winter.

"I knew it was a fluke. it happened at the start of the year too, when I got caught in a headlock. I felt like I had a statement to make." Whitehall's Wyatt Jenkins' confidence was not shaken after being stunningly pinned in the team quarterfinals in February, instead using it as fuel as he entered

the individual finals the next week. He made the statement he was looking for with authority, rolling to an individual state championship at Ford Field.

"I think $7 for a kid to come to a postseason game is terrible, and it makes the student section sparse, and I hate that. I really wish the MHSAA would do something to get kids to come because I love it when kids are here." It was a fairly quiet Montague gym when Whitehall defeated Orchard View in a pre-district girls basketball game in March, and coach Brian Milliron shared that he'd like to

see a change made that would remove a barrier for students to attend postseason games.

"It's a unit out there. We talk a lot about 11 players scoring a goal, and it takes 11 players to have a goal scored on us." As he did in a preseason interview, Montague girls soccer coach Chris Aebig likes to keep the focus on the team and not on the individual, and especially when negative things happen, it's a mindset that's all

Quotes

Pelton 3rd team all-state to lead soccer awards

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Capping off a soccer season that saw Montague bring home its first district championship, eight local players secured all-conference first team awards, on top of a ninth receiving honorable mention on the Division 1 all-state team.

The Wildcats, naturally, led local teams in honorees after a successful season that included 14 victories, none more notable than the district championship win over Fremont. Four Wildcats were all-conference first teamers, and two of those were awarded spots on the Division 3 all-state team.

Seniors Ava Pelton and Braylyn Bultema were recognized at the state level, with Pelton being named to the third team and Bultema collecting honorable mention. Pelton, who also received honorable men-

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

tion all-state in 2024, was the Wildcats' top scorer all year, delivering memorable goals on a consistent basis; it was her game-winning shot that made the difference in the district finals. Bultema's offensive numbers were not as glamorous as her senior teammate's, but she was a huge part of a Wildcat attack that proved to be very diffi-

cult for opponents to slow down.

Fellow Wildcat seniors Abby Dyer and Adilynn Peterson were also all-West Michigan Conference first team performers. Peterson was an effective midfielder and played well on both the offensive and defensive ends.

Dyer played a similar role and did it very well,

delivering skill and leadership to her position group. Both were on display in a win at Hart, in which she scored twice and later offered to switch positions with teammate Elle Moran so Moran could score a goal late in the game. It was a meaningful score because Moran was playing her first

game at Hart since the passing of her father Troy, the former Hart principal, in 2024.

Although Montague was the headliner, all three local squads saw players achieve all-state mention. Whitehall's Izzy Causie and Reeths-Puffer's Mallorie Messer were both all-state honorable

mention performers.

Causie, an exciting freshman player who coach Laicey Chamberlain expressed confidence in even prior to her first varsity game, served notice that her Viking career will have a lot

Bultema Beda Causie Dyer

Pelton Kops Peterson Tryska

Montague's Ava Pelton (center) celebrates with teammates Abby Dyer (far left) and Adilynn Peterson after a goal against Newaygo in May. Pelton's third team all-state nod in Division 3 highlighted local postseason soccer honors.

From left, Jack MacArthur, Terrell Harris and Brandon Rake, were on staff as Whitehall football assistant coaches in 2024. Five former players of coach Tony Sigmon's were assistants, and he noted it wasn't just a sign of a positive experience they'd had as players.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

Whitehall's Wyatt Jenkins (left), undeterred by a surprise defeat in the team quarterfinals, roared back to win an individual state title in March.

• Kelly Barnes/Mirror File Photo

Quotes of the year

the more important to have. It paid off for the 'Cats this spring, as they won their first-ever district championship.

"Failure is a component of a life lived boldly." Former Whitehall star Hannah Loucks was on hand to share her thoughts on her multi-sport journey at Whitehall during a May event, and her quote about not fearing failure was part of the pitch made to potential future Viking stars. Whatever the reason, Whitehall girls basketball coach Brian Milliron said in May that 20% fewer girls than boys at the school play multiple sports, a stat the event was designed to combat.

"I'm a big proponent of playing as many sports as you can and having as many diverse experiences as you can. Individual sports, team sports, I think there's a lot of value in all of it. I think you learn how to handle situations. You learn resilience. You learn toughness. You learn hard work." Believe it or not, this wasn't at the same

event as Loucks' previous quote, but remarks delivered by Hope College assistant women's basketball coach Courtney Kust at a Whitehall district-wide event celebrating women's sports in March wouldn't have been out of place there, either.

"He's obviously very skilled on the ball, but his decision-making and pace of play and also patience at the same time has gotten way better. I know his three brothers, the twins Ashton and Preston, and Jaxon who we had going back four years now, I know they're proud too of the way he's playing." Reeths-Puffer boys soccer coach Kody Harrell only has one more Carpenter - rising junior London - left to coach, but his lineage, and results to date, suggest another terrific R-P career is unfolding.

"Our team captain looks at us and says, 'Don't you dare throw the ball. Run the ball.' Everyone was all in on it. We were going to ride with it, and

Soccer honors

of highlights by showcasing her talent even on a team that sometimes struggled against a grueling schedule. She scored two goals each in wins against Orchard View and Oakridge. Teammate Kate Beda, a multitalented athlete who was all-state honorable mention in 2024, was also named to the all-WMC

continued from page 4

first team. A goal against conference power North Muskegon was one of her season highlights.

Messer, meanwhile, starred for R-P as one of the top scorers on a Rocket attack that faced a brutal schedule of its own and also entered the season without a ton of experience. Her work,

Chamber Music Festival family concert July 20

This year’s White Lake Chamber Music Festival offers a musical event for children and families at the Playhouse at White Lake in Whitehall.

The Family Concert Sunday, July 20, at 3 p.m., entitled “Enchanting Musical Stories,” features an afternoon of storytelling, as performer Anne Marie Hoover joins forces with international pianists Andrea Swan and Kuang Hao Huang. The musicians will share the classic tales of Peter and the Wolf, set to Prokofiev's music, and the magical adventure of The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Dirt Dauber

(music by Dukas), enhanced by evocative background illustrations. Children and adults alike will be whisked away to another time, where magic reigns supreme. There will be a surprise event at intermission. Tickets for this event at the Playhouse may be purchased at the Playhouse box office one hour prior to any given performance by calling 231-894-0119 or visiting in person. Tickets are also available at Whitehall City Hall, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Club to meet July 15 at White Lake UMC

The Dirt Dauber Garden Club will host its next meeting Tuesday, July 15 at 6 p.m. at the White Lake United Methodist Church.

“It is our pleasure to welcome Doug Paprocki to share with us his vast knowledge of the dunal forest that his late wife Gretchen and he researched over the years," club vice-president Linda Cudney said. "Their hard work and foresight have created an opportunity for all to learn about and enjoy the wonders of these forests well into the future."

Join DDGC and learn about “Beside the Inland Sea.” To learn more in-

formation, visit the Dirt Dauber Garden Club’s Facebook page.

it was going to work or we were going to have some egg on our face."

To hear Sigmon tell it, the decision on what type of play to call on a pivotal fourth down late in the Vikings' district semifinal win over Forest Hills Eastern

which included a four-goal explosion against local foe Whitehall, drew attention at the state level despite not being named to the O-K Green all-conference team.

Teammates Reese Tryska and Jaslynn Kops, though, were picked to the O-K Green team. Kops was one of the Rockets' top scorers - a two-goal game against Jenison was a highlightand Tryska was a key piece of the Rockets' midfield and defensive units all season.

was taken out of his hands by a group of players sure in their belief that a run play would work. Fortunately for Viking fans, it did, and Gavin Craner later powered in the winning touchdown in the final seconds.

Reeths-Puffer's London Carpenter (10), shown here competing against Fruitport in a district finals game last fall, is the last of the Carpenter boys Rockets' coach Kody Harrell will have in his stable, but he's showing signs of living up to the name.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

Reeths-Puffer's Mallorie Messer fields the ball during her 4-goal game against Whitehall in May. Messer was named honorable mention all-state this season.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

Dune Grass Gallery celebrates open house

The Dune Grass Gallery in Montague hosted an open house Saturday, June 26 to celebrate its recent opening. Attendees were treated to various works of art on display, light refreshments and the dulcimer music of Linda Foley.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall council approves DPW truck purchases

By Andy Roberts

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council approved the purchase of two 2026 Ford F-350 trucks - one for the Department of Public Works and the other for the parks department - at Tuesday's regular meeting.

The original motion called for DPW to receive the 4x4 truck and the parks department to use the 4x2 because the parks department truck would mostly be used for relatively light work such as garbage pickup. However, during council discussion, the council agreed that it would be worth the extra $3,690 - the difference between the two trucks' cost - to have another 4x4 available. Council member Jeff Holmstrom pointed out that in case of a weather emergency like the June 2024 storms that damaged many houses and brought down trees in the White Lake area, it would be a positive for the city

to have another well-equipped truck available to help with cleanup efforts.

The council also unanimously approved the purchase of a new International HV507 plow truck to be used during the winter. The truck will cost a total of $236,072 after accounting for costs to outfit the vehicle for snowplowing, and it will replace a 2006 model year truck from which the city got nearly 20 years of use. The city had budgeted $240,000 for the purchase.

Unanimous approval was also given to a road closure request on Hanson Street for the Cruz In parade, set to return this year for its July 25 event after last year's Cruz In was changed to a stationary show in Montague for safety reasons. The closure will allow for the creation of a "burnout box," said Cruz In committee member Doug Boardwell during public comment. There cars will be permitted to do burnouts for a fee - a Facebook post made by the committee Tuesday night said the

fee would be $20 - that will help cover some costs. During discussion, Boardwell said that businesses in the Whitehall social district were aware of the request and were planning to host those who would like to watch the burnouts from the North Mears Promenade.

The "burnout box" will be the only area in which burnouts will be permitted, and the cars whose drivers do the burnouts will then reunite with the rest of the parade route where Hanson intersects with Colby Street.

The council discussed other community happenings during the meeting. Holmstrom complimented the White Lake Community Gardens, which are now running on the former tennis court adjacent to city hall. He called the current garden a great start and looked forward to it hopefully covering the entire former court as it continues to grow.

Council member Tanya Cabala brought up the upcoming senior cen-

ter dinners, which the council greenlit earlier this year as part of the city's senior millage allocation. The dinners are intended to provide food and, more importantly, community conversation among local seniors and will be free for seniors to attend. The dinners' dates have not yet been finalized, but could occur this September and in March 2026. City manager Scott Huebler said the budget did not set constraints on when during the fiscal year the dinners take place.

Mayor Steven Salter thanked Hope Bible Chapel volunteers for walking the parade path and picking up loose garbage after the July 4 parade last Friday and shared positive feedback he'd received about the fireworks show that evening. He said the fireworks show was slated to return in 2026 for the 250th anniversary of the country's founding and the committee would be working to secure donations to pay for the show over the next year.

Libraries now offering blood pressure monitors

MADL branches offering monitors for check-out through American Heart Association partnership

Community members in Muskegon County now have an accessible and convenient way to monitor their blood pressure at home. Thanks to support provided by the American Heart Association, Muskegon Area District Library is now offering free blood pressure kits as part of its “Libraries with Heart” program. This initiative allows

patrons to borrow a blood pressure monitor much like they would a book, making it easier than ever to prioritize their health.

Each blood pressure kit includes a monitor, step-by-step guidance from the American Heart Association on how to measure blood pressure accurately, an explanation of blood pressure readings and a contact list of local resources for care. These resources aim to encourage individuals to take an active role in managing their health.

High blood pressure, or hyperten-

sion, is a leading risk factor for stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, vision loss and other serious health issues. Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, yet many are unaware of their condition. Access to blood pressure monitors can often be a barrier due to cost or availability. The “Libraries with Heart” program addresses this challenge by providing free and accessible tools to help individuals monitor and manage their blood pressure, ultimately reducing the risk of preventable health complications.

Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure typically presents with few noticeable symptoms, making regular monitoring essential. An estimated 36% of individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure are unaware of their condition, which can escalate to hypertension without proactive intervention. A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mm Hg, and maintaining heart-healthy habits—such as a balanced diet and regular exercise—is key to staying within this range.

Chamber Music Festival hosts daily Salon Concerts

From July 19–26, the White Lake Chamber Music Festival invites you to begin each day with live music at the Book Nook & Java Shop in Montague. These casual and classical 11 a.m. Salon Concerts offer a relaxed yet enriching setting to experience world-class artists and the timeless beauty of classical music. Whether you're a longtime enthusiast or simply curious, these morning concerts provide a blend of culture and community to start your day. These are made possible through community support — no charge to

attend, but contributions help sustain these performances.

Scheduled 11 a.m. concerts include:

Saturday, July 19 – Marina Hoover, cello and Kuang-Hao Huang, piano

Monday, July 21 – Duo PianistsAndrea Swan and Kuang-Hao Huang

Tuesday, July 22 – Arturo Ziraldo, viola and Kuang-Hao Huang, piano

Wednesday, July 23 – David Hall, marimba

Thursday, July 24 – Brian Morris, classical guitar

Friday, July 25 – Violin Duo; Sang Mee Lee and Eleanor Bartsch

Saturday, July 26 – Red Cedar String Quartet

In cooperation with Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, the Chamber Music Festival will also host the Red Cedar String Quartet on the final day of the festival, July 26. This ensemble, made up of doctoral students from Michigan State University, brings together musicians from Italy, Taiwan, China, and the U.S. Each member has studied at prestigious institutions such as the

Manhattan School of Music, National Taiwan Normal University, The Hartt School, and the “Niccolò Paganini” Conservatory in Genoa. They are active performers with orchestras across Michigan and are equally dedicated to music education. Their teaching experience includes Suzuki programs, university-level instruction, and leadership roles in the American String Teachers Association. This summer, the Red Cedar Quartet will serve as ensemble-in-residence at the renowned Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp.

White Lake Mirror Editor

Fourth of July parade celebrates the holiday

Historical Society to examine Svensson Park history

The White Lake Area Historical Society invites the public to attend its upcoming meeting Thursday, July 17, at 7 p.m. at Svensson Park, 1050 S Lake Street, Whitehall.

Nestled across from the Howmet Aerospace parking lot and beside Windy Cove Condominiums, this setting offers a perfect backdrop for an engaging evening of local history.

The program, titled “Svensson Park – A Hidden Gem on White Lake,” will be presented by Jan (Svensson) Grady, whose family initiated the park with a donation of lakefront land to the City of Whitehall. The talk will explore the history of the land and park, the planning and development process, and the evolution from the initial vision of a public swimming beach to the present-day

public green space.

Turning that vision into the vibrant park we know today was a long-term effort, requiring years of advocacy, planning, and development. From modest beginnings, the park has evolved into a unique natural haven featuring native Michigan wildflowers, a wildlife habitat, playground, picnic areas, a carry-in boat launch, and a bike path connection.

As there is no seating in the park, attendees will need to bring their own chairs. Limited parking inside the park is available for individuals with mobility challenges; carpooling is recommended, and street parking is available nearby.

In case of rain, the meeting will take place at Lebanon Lutheran Church on Mears Avenue in Whitehall.

Bon Appetit, A Delicious Cabaret at Playhouse

The 2025 Summer Theatre Festival weekends at The Playhouse at White Lake begin this weekend, July 11-13, with a combination event - Bon Appetit, a comic opera celebrating Julia Child, and A Delicious Cabaret, which brings together a mix of food-themed Broadway hits. The event is taking place in partnership with the Muskegon Museum of Art's touring Julia Child exhibit, which is available at the museum through Sept. 1.

Bon Appetit is a 20-minute comic opera by Lee Hoiby that serves up a tribute to legendary chef Julia Child. It recreates two episodes of Child's TV show, The French Chef, featuring her famous chocolate cake recipe, complete with Child’s signature humor and flair,. Local actress Regina Schlaff stars as Child. Blending drama, humor, and culinary artistry, the opera showcases Julia's words and gestures as

she prepares the cake. The libretto, adapted by Mark Shulgasser, captures the essence of the chef’s charm.

The cabaret follows the Julia Child celebration, teaming a youth choir and professional lakeshore voices in various food-themed Broadway hits. Some of the songs included are Be Our Guest, Food, Glorious Food!, Vanilla Ice Cream, I Can Cook Too, Happy To Keep His Dinner Warm, Worst Pies in London, Whatever Lola Wants, Les Poissons, Empty Tables Empty Chairs, Drink with Me, Feed Me (Git It), It Couldn't Please Me More, Feed the Birds, The Ladies Who Lunch, What Baking Can Do, and Taylor The Latte Boy.

Tickets for the Summer Theatre Festival are available at theplayhouseatwhitelake.org, where you can also learn about the White Lake Youth Theatre, arts education for shoreline area students.

Regina Schlaff will portray Julia Child in the show Bon Appetit this weekend at The Playhouse at White Lake, being put on in partnership with the Muskegon Museum of Art's current exhibition celebrating the famed chef.

• Courtesy Photo

The White Lake Area Fourth of July parade was again a hit last Friday, with decorative floats, classic vehicles and even participants dousing attendees with water; many of the younger members of the audience eagerly sought out their chance to be on the receiving end of a blast. Dee Briegel, recipient of the White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau 2024 Lady Laker Award, was grand marshal of the parade. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos