The Oceana Echo - Volume 4, Issue 21, October 16, 2026

INSIDE

: Geronimo hosts informational event at MCC

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Hart Solar Farm hosts ribbon cutting By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

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NorthStar Clean Energy officially opened the Hart Solar Farm with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday, Oct. 8. Nearly 75 stakeholders, partners and community members were in attendance as representatives of NorthStar Clean Energy, Executive Energy Services, Michigan Public Power Agency and Oakland County, Michigan, celebrated this milestone. “Hart Solar happened through the collaboration and commitment of hundreds of people of Michigan: from several organizations, including customers to buy the renewable energy; landowners to allow the project to use the land; communities to host the project; agencies to permit the construction; and partners to permit, engineer, build, manage and facilitate the completion and operation of the project,” Pete Lundquist of NorthStar Energy said. “It also created jobs, brought investments into the region through partnerships with contractors, suppliers and skilled workers, many of whom were local to the area.”

Officers of the DAR of Michigan and members of the Dunes Chapter were in attendance. • Claire Marshall/Echo

Native American section of Pentwater cemetery receives formal dedication By Claire Marshall Nearly 75 stakeholders were on hand for the Hart Solar Farm ribbon cutting Oct. 8. “The 120 megawatt utility-scale facility will provide clean electricity to a diverse group of Michigan energy customers through longterm purchase agreements with Executive Energy Services and the Michigan Public Power Agency,” a press release read. “The benefits of the project extend into the local community, with Hart Township receiving roughly $600,000 through the state’s Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Renewables Ready Communities Award program. In addition, the CMS Energy Foundation of Jackson, Michigan, also granted $100,000 to the Lakeshore Food Club and the newly established Regional Food Hub in Hart.” “The project got its start nearly nine years ago,” said Hart Township Supervisor Abram Kurzer. I got on the planning commission about that time, and the township was already working on it. They were in the early stages and making decisions about zoning.” Kurzer sees several positives of the project that he wishes to draw attention to. The first plus, according to Kurzer, is the Renewables Ready Communities Award the township received. As a result of this $600,000 award, the township is in the process of updating two very important township documents their master plan, which will enable them to get more grants in the future, and a rewrite of their current zoning ordinances. The second plus

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

Kurzer said is the increase in the tax base that the solar farm brings to the township. “Farmland gets taxed at a much lower rate. It doesn’t typically have personal property on it that can be taxed. With the solar project, all of the infrastructure and equipment that is installed is now considered personal property and gets taxed at a higher rate. We were given two options when it came to the new tax rate. Either receive the actual personal property rate annually, or receive an annual payment in lieu of taxes. The township chose the latter and for the next half dozen years or so will receive $180,000 to $200,000 in additional tax revenue. In the years following, as the solar farm equipment depreciates, that amount will gradually decrease,” Kurzer explained. A third plus that Kurzer shared is how the solar project will help the landowners. “It hit me early on (that) all these landowners are aging, with no one in line to take over. The landowners are receiving a huge benefit for the next 25 years, not only financially, but they won’t have to worry about farming the land.” Personally, Kurzer sees an additional benefit. He admits he’s gotten a lot of pushback from people about what the solar panels have done to the landscape. Kurzer agrees he doesn’t necessarily like looking at them either, but adds, “When the fields were farmed, fertilizer and chemicals had their ef-

fect on the land as well. People just didn’t see it. Now the land can sit fallow for the next 25 years and recover.” Kurzer also mentioned that because construction of the new facility was hard on local roads, portions of 88th and 94th Avenues, as well as Fox and Taylor Roads, have all received much-needed surface improvements, paid for by the solar project. At the end of his remarks last Thursday, Lundquist said, “We are especially grateful to the township of Hart, Oceana County officials and local stakeholders in the Hart community and our partners for their support through the construction process. Their collaboration was critical to the success of the project.” Hart Township has always and will continue to offer the community the opportunity to become more involved in local government. Monthly township meetings are held the second Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. The Hart Township board of directors includes Kurzer, Treasurer Todd Metzler, Clerk Steve Freed, Trustees Doug Fuehring and Lois Alvesteffer-Simmons. The Township Assessor is Daniel Kirwin and Township Zoning Administrator is Sara Bizon. Planning Commission members include Bizon, Fuehring, Dick Huntington, Kurzer, Dale Routley and Kathy Walton. The township office located at 3437 W. Polk Rd. is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and managed by Administrative Assistant Carol Tariske. More information is available at harttownship.org.

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent A section of the Pentwater Township Cemetery historically used by local Native Americans for burial has been properly Daniel Bissell unveils the marker, the wording of recognized and dedicated which he helped craft. through work done by the Michigan Dunes Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). On Oct. 11 a bronze plaque marking and acknowledging the section was unveiled, and the ground and dead were honored in a ceremony conducted by Daniel Bissell, an elder member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and resident of Ludington. The project was led by Shannon Larson, a state director for the DAR of Michigan, Dunes Chapter member and chair of the Friends of Pentwater Township Cemetery. During the dedication, Larson described the project as “very close to my heart, bringing together both my work with DAR and my work preserving and caring for this cemetery.” Also invaluable in assisting the project was Brenda Hilderbrandt, another member of the Dunes Chapter and the Friends of Pentwater Township Cemetery. Purchase and installation of the marker was funded through an America250MI grant in partnership with the Friends group and Pentwater Township. In her speech, Larson recognized the names of three individuals whose burials are confirmed within the section of the cemetery: Frank Peters, Charles Skimhorn, and Dorothy Marsh, who was only 3 at the time of her passing. Larson also acknowledged the names of other possible burials - Frankie Shagonaby, Hosea Shaw and Mattie Pierce - and that the road to properly researching and recognizing every individual laid to rest is still ongoing. “Today is about much more than dedicating a bronze marker,” said Larson. “It is about recognizing that people lived here, were part of this community, died here and were laid to rest in this cemetery. Their lives deserve the same dignity of remembrance that we hope to give every person whose story is held within these grounds.”

The 2026 Shelby Homecoming King Brody Fessenden and Queen Nova Gottschalk, pictured above, were crowned at halftime of the Tiger’s varsity football game against Muskegon Catholic Central, Friday, Oct. 9. Shelby won 44-12. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

2 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

News and Notes By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Weather The first half of September this year felt more like the middle summer at times…minus the humidity! From Sept. 1-18, the daytime average temperature, 79 degrees, allowed for more “fun in the sun” and more growing days for area gardens. During the same time period, overnight temperatures averaged 58 degrees and made for wonderful sleeping weather. Taking the whole month into consideration, the average high for the month was 75.9 degrees, with an average low of 52.5 degrees. It was another relatively dry month with only 3.10 inches of precipitation. Those who were keeping an eye on their hummingbirds were still seeing activity at their feeders up until about Sept. 20, about the same time overnight temperatures dipped below the 50s.

Community

The Silver Lake Apple BBQ Fest enjoyed amazing weather for its 23rd annual event. In the apple pie contest, winners in the youth division included 1st Place: Gabriel Dodge, 2nd Place: Heidi Vandelier, and 3rd Place: Riley Gonyeau. Adult Division winners included 1st Place: Jen Edy, 2nd Place: Randi Sheffer, and 3rd Place: Hannah Rolff. The overall winner in the 5K race was Jared Lauber, who crossed the finish line in an impressive 20:19 while pushing a double stroller with his kids, Oliver and Rio! The top Female Finisher was Tessa Gregwer with a time of 25:37! In conjunction with the Apple BBQ Fest, the Hart Athletic Boosters Classic Auto and ORV Show recorded an incredible turnout. “While we typically average 80 to 90 registered vehicles, this year we had 133 registered vehicles and expanded parking between the Chicken Shack and Craig Cruisers,” coordinator Lloyd Miller reported. First place winners in the nine categories were as follows: Jeep - Joe Meinke’s 1973 Jeep Commando; Truck - Justin Kladder’s 1972 Chevrolet K10 Cheyenne; Car - Ron and Pat Wight’s 2010 Chevrolet Camaro; Buggy - Shawn and Stephanie Roth’s 2026 Performance Prototypes; ATB/UTV/Motorcycle - Aspyn Kaupa’s 2019 American Jr. Dragster; People’s Choice - Eddie Cruz’ 1986 Chevy C-10; Student’s Choice Award - Connie Meyers’ 2011 Ford Mustang Roush; Best Paint/ Wrap/Graphics - Mike Manning’s 1934 Ford 3 Window Coupe; and Best of Show - Ed and Sue Knight’s 1977 Ford F-150 4x4. “We were pleased to raise over $14,000 through sponsors, raffles, and sales. All proceeds will support Hart High School sports,” said Lloyd. Full show results can be found at applebbqfestival.com

Nonprofits Nearly 100 community members gathered Tuesday, Sept. 22, to honor the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society’s volunteers and hear a special presentation by Great Lakes Shipwreck diver and documentarian, Ric Mixter. A catered meal and connecting with other community members was enjoyed by all before OCH&GS Board President Brad Moul recognized the Society’s many faithful volunteers with special certificates and a gift. Outgoing Board President Paul Erickson was honored with a specially

FOUND CHAINSAW TEXT 231-329-4410

• Please describe what you lost •

commissioned washed drawing of Little Sable Pointe You at the Pole” event. Hart High School Senior Joel and the keeper’s quarters by watercolorist Al Moul. Knobel, of the First Baptist Church youth group in Hart, reported there were about 70 participants this year for Delayed by one week the 15-minute student-led prayer time. due to weather, the annual Hispanic Heritage Businesses Festival was held Sept. 25 A record nearly 160 in downtown Hart celebusiness leaders and brating local culture and stakeholders attended the community. “The multiOceana County Economic award-winning Tejano Alliance’s (OCEA) Annual Sound Band of Lansing Breakfast and Report held delivered a high-energy this year at the Double combination of traditionJJ Back Forty Resort Oct. al Tejano accordion beats, smooth urban style and 2. Three area nonprofits, powerful family harmonies,” Oceana Hispanic Center the Oceana Community Foundation, Lakeshore Food Director Irma Hinojosa said. “They entertained the Club and West Shore Community College, took part crowd and were totally impressed with our small-town in a panel discussion sharing how their nonprofit orcelebration, especially that we focused on the chil- ganizations have benefitted from and partnered with dren, the community, and paid tribute to our sponsors. the OCEA. Randy Thelen of The Right Place in Grand There were an estimated 250 attendees overall, with 78 Rapids, a key partner of the OCEA, provided a very entries in the door prize drawings provided by 12 dif- encouraging regional outlook. A small business panel ferent booths at the agency fair. Our finale show was with Tony DeMatteo of Dark Waters Coffee Roasters, Coronado Robot Entertainment, who did an awesome Hannah Juhl of Stella’s Coffee House and Chad Veinjob getting the kids and crowd dancing to the beat with ing of the Ten31 Stop gas station shared how the OCEA glow sticks.” has been instrumental in helping their entrepreneurHinojosa wishes to thank the many sponsors ship dreams come to life and what advice they’d have whose contributions made the event possible: West for new business owners. Executive Director Curtis Shore Community College, La Probadita, Pink Ele- Burdette wrapped up the morning by sharing the highphant, Springstead Law Offices PC, Michigan Freeze lights of the past year. He was pleased to report the Pack LLC, OPC Arbre Farms LLC, Burnette Foods Inc., formation of the Small Business Buzz Coffee Circles, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Juan Time Roofing Repair, various business-related workshops and pitch events Beacon Cremation & Funeral Services, Harris Funeral for small businesses, as well as dozens of business conHome, West Michigan Carpet Center Inc., Rennhack tacts and assists. Since 2018 the organization’s operaOrchards Market Inc., Richard and Debra McGrath, tional expenses have totaled approximately $800,000. Anchor Real Estate of Hart PC, Heather Phares DDS PC From that, Burdette estimates a $51 million return on and Oceana Auto LLC. investment, or nearly $51 dollars for every $1 spent. This includes everything from grants and connecting Schools businesses to valuable partners/resources to helping A record 543 dads businesses cut through red tape. Thelen urged those and their children took gathered to continue doing what they are doing - expart in this year’s “All Pro panding housing, supporting entrepreneurs and inDads Kick Off” event held vesting in quality-of-life assets. Tuesday, Sept. 22! Attendees took advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoyed two free events sponsored by Craig’s Cruisers in Silver Lake. Monthly gatherings at local elementary schools will begin again later this month. Check the Echo’s event calendar for DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS dates and times. DPW LABORER (PARK MAINTENANCE)

JOB POSTING VILLAGE OF SHELBY

The Village of Shelby is seeking applicants for a full-time DPW Laborer. Under the direction of the DPW Supervisor, this position plays a key role in overseeing public works operations, including infrastructure maintenance, water and sewer systems, and construction projects.

Several area high school students joined together Wednesday, Sept. 23, at their respective schools’ flagpoles to participate in the annual “See Free Samples!

Open 8-6 M-Sat. We grow it for YOU, & do gift baskets, too!

Our Peppers, Potatoes, Cabbage, Winter Squash, Beets with Greens, Cornstalks, Pumpkins, Gourds & Mini-Pumpkins! Our Honeycrisp, Evercrisp, SnowSweet, McIntosh, Ambrosia, Ida Red, Cortland, Golden Delicious, Applesauce Blend, & more Apples! Local Hardy Mums, Fleming’s Cider, Gift Baskets & Much More! We accept MI Bridge Cards (use & get matching Double Up Food Bucks tokens for fruits & veggies), Senior Project Fresh, WIC Produce Connection, WIC Fruits & Veg CVB, credit cards & cash.

Regular shift hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Respond to afterhours emergencies related to water and sewer infrastructure while in the on-call rotation is required. Qualifications: High school diploma or GED required, minimum 2 years of experience in public works or related field, valid Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required within 90 days of hire, must possess EGLE certifications: Water (S-3, D-3) and Wastewater (L-1, L-2). The salary range is $43,595 to $52,773.00 depending on qualifications. Additional benefits include health insurance, a defined contribution match for retirement, paid time off, and eleven (11) observed paid holidays. Applicants should submit application and resume to:

a

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Village Clerk Village of Shelby 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455 Or email: clerk@shelbyvillage.com

3731 W. Polk Rd., Hart

For questions, contact Village Hall at (231) 8614400. Applications must be submitted by no later than October 30, 2026, at 4:30 PM.

www.rennhackmarket.com

THE VILLAGE OF SHELBY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

near the bike trail • (231) 873-7523

THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 3

A work of art and heart: St. John's Bible visits Oceana By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent Just prior to the iconic ArtPrize 2026, held in Grand Rapids from Sept. 18 to Oct. 3, a much smaller, though not insignificant, art exhibition made an appearance in Oceana County. Volume Six of the Saint John’s Bible was on display Sept. 15 at the Trinity Health Lakeshore Hospital campus, where it was available for viewing by the community as part of its five-month tour. Spiritual Care Manager for Trinity Health Allison Fisher Mannies gave visitors a brief tour of the book and the chance to experience this unique piece of literature and art

• Sharon Hallack/Echo firsthand. Trinity Health System owns two full copies of the Saint John’s Bible, Fisher Mannies said. Volume Six (which includes the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and the Acts of the Apostles) has been on display in the Trinity Health Muskegon lobby since June. According to the Saint John’s Bible website, “In 1998, Saint John’s Abbey and University commissioned renowned calligrapher Donald Jackson to produce a hand-written, hand-illuminated Bible. This work of art unites ancient Benedictine tradition with the technology and vision of today, illuminating the Word of God for a new millennium.” “The calligraphy and art are really what sets

this Bible apart,” Fisher Mannies said. “The work, which took 15 years to complete, was a team effort led by artistic director Donald Jackson. He, along with a team of six scribes, and 23 different artists and craftspeople worked on writing and illuminating the pages.” The original Saint John’s Bible is actually bigger in size, Fisher Mannies explained. “A total of 299 copies were produced from the original Saint John’s Bible, and of those, Trinity Health owns two copies. Each copy is made up of seven volumes and includes every book of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.” The Saint John’s Bible is written completely using calligraphy script and is accompanied by stun-

ning and thought-provoking artwork throughout. The Saint John’s Bible will be on display in the lobby of Trinity Health Muskegon until Friday, Oct. 23. Trinity Health’s Spiritual Care Department will host a special viewing of the Bible on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where visitors will be able to see the Bible up close, share their own observations and ask questions. “It's been a great part of the experience seeing the Bible through other people’s eyes. Every time I show it, people see things I haven’t seen, or I personally notice something different,” Fisher Mannies said. Anyone interested in more information can visit saintjohnsbible.org.

Annual Golden Fair delights in Mears

Organizers said the Golden Fair was a great success this year and they wish to thank all who participated in the parade, the Golden Eatery for its specials, and all who came out to watch. They plan to see everyone again at next year's parade. • Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

4 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO Visit us!

This page is brought to you by:

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

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

103 years young: Olive Fordham and County Normal - Part 3 By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist Olive Fordham’s class, the class of 1943, was the final class Oceana County Normal produced, closing before the start of the next school year. When asked what she believed caused the school’s closing, Olive answered, “There weren’t that many people interested, evidently… it was doomed…nobody was going.” Apparently, County Normal had been suffering from low attendance for many years, but despite the school's struggles, the final class had no idea that their alma mater would be non-existent within a couple months of their graduation. Olive spent the summer of 1943 at home, searching for a job opening in nearby rural schools. “I knew I had to get a job…my dad had insisted that I have a job,” Olive said. Prospective teachers could search for openings. Olive’s first job outside of County Normal, at just 19 years old, was in the fall of 1943 at Marshville School - located in Benona Township and run by Henry Hendrickson - where she spent one year teaching. This particular job was notable because of one child, Frankie, who Olive described as “not the brightest…but he was cute.” Olive’s family still had only one car, so she was back to boarding, this time with the Hendrickson family. On the weekends, however, her brother Floyd would take the

family car to pick her up and take her back to the farm in Montague until the next Monday. Olive doesn’t remember every single rural school she taught at, but she remembered going back home to teach at Flower Creek, the same one-room schoolhouse she attended from kindergarten through eighth grade. Because Olive was able to stay at home, she could start setting some money aside for savings. Olive recalled her monthly teaching income to be about $100, at least at some point in her time teaching at country schools. She was at Flower Creek for about three years, which meant that Olive had to organize three box socials to help supplement the school’s funding. Of course Everett Seaver was brought in as the auctioneer. “There was no one else…you wouldn’t dare get anybody else.” Olive couldn’t remember how Everett was compensated for his work as the go-to Claybanks auctioneer. When I suggested that perhaps he just donated his time to the school or perhaps just did it for free for the love of the game, Olive responded with a chuckle, “Knowing the background of the Seavers, I’d say no…he got a fee.” At some point, the money Olive saved was spent wisely at Michigan State University, where Olive’s brothers Floyd and Clifford had received their degrees. She took a year off from teaching to live on campus in East Lansing and earn her bachelor’s degree.

Outside of the southern Oceana County and Montague area, Olive taught in the Twin Lake area, then finally moved to the Muskegon Heights school district. She was at Glendale Elementary School for a number of years, where she taught first and second grades. Olive always preferred “the little ones.” After over a decade of teaching, Olive received a call from the Muskegon Heights superintendent, Fred E. Strong, who worked in the Heights from 1957 to 1969. Strong said, “Olive, I’m sitting here working on staff, and I’m putting you in as principal at Glendale.” To this generous offer, Olive replied, quite understandably, “I’m not ready for that.”

Strong then explained why he chose Olive, saying “teachers come to you with their problems,” which is certainly one aspect of the job description. But Olive was adamant, “I’m not ready.” Strong’s response? “Well, I decided," and then he hung up. So that was that. Olive worked at Glendale Elementary and, later, Roosevelt Elementary Schools as principal for a total of over 30 years. While she had many of the same responsibilities as expected of a teacher, she had to tackle hurdles that County Normal could have never prepared her for. She recalls her time, particularly, interacting with students’ parents. Joanne Kessler described her as “a force to be reckoned with,”

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but Olive recalls it simply as a process of mutual respect “[the parents] respected me, and I respected them.” Olive couldn’t recall when she retired, long before she met Joanne, but Olive’s niece Lydia reckons that she retired in 1982 or 1983. Following the sudden, successive deaths of her older brothers, Olive decided it was time to travel the world before she too followed in death after them, not knowing that she still had 40plus years left in her. I noted how, at the beginning of our conversation, Olive had said she wanted nothing to do with teaching, yet ended up as a principal of multiple schools. She credited the push from her father to getting her moving in the right direction. “My dad was a precious soul. He was always kind. Made suggestions, but he never forced me.” Olive misses her family, now having outlived her parents and brothers by several decades. She still has their photos on her windowsill mother and father, and Clifford and Floyd. So there’s Olive’s story, but teaching was just a small portion of her 103 years. If any of our readership recalls Olive as a teacher and can perhaps fill in some of the gaps, your insight or memories would be greatly appreciated. From 1943 to 1983 is a lot of ground to cover!

Shelby High School Class of 1976 celebrates 50th reunion

The Shelby High School class of 1976 celebrated their 50th reunion last month at the Loading Dock in Shelby. They had 60 classmates in attendance. • Contributed Photo

The Oceana Echo © is a 501(c)(3) published weekly at P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436 • All rights reserved. General news/inquiry email: theoceanaecho@gmail.com • October 16, 2026 • Volume 4 • Issue 21 Office (Old Town Hall in Mears): M & W: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • 231-301-8149 • ads@oceanaecho.com

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THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 5

Ongoing The Ladder Community Center: 6th-12th Grade youth program “The Huddle”: Mon-Fri 3-5pm Adult Hours: Mon-Fri 8-3 Women’s Bible Study: Mondays 1-2pm Men’s Bible Study: Tuesdays 10:30am-12pm Visit www.theladdercommunitycenter.com for complete event schedule. Donate returnable cans and bottles to the Hart VFW. Drop off at the hall or call Steve at 231-873-1727 for pick-up.

VFW Patriot’s Pen contest open through October 30

OctOber

Oct. 16 - Mobile Food Pantry, GHSP parking lot, Hart, 5 p.m. Oct. 19 - Afterschool Movie, Hesperia Community Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Oct. 19 - Area High Schools Marching Band Glow Show, Montague High School. Oct. 20 - Flu Shot Clinic, Pentwater Public Schools Library, 2-4 p.m. Oct. 21 - Workshop, “Protecting Your Online Identity”, Shelby Area District Library, 11 a.m. -12 p.m. Registration is recommended. Oct. 24 - Cherry Point Farm & Market, Trick or Treating, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Costume parade & contest 1 p.m. Oct. 24 - TLC, Trunk or Treat, lunch included, New Era, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Hart VFW invites all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students to submit an essay in Oct. 24 - Spooktacular, Downtown Pentwater, 12 noon. this year’s Patriot’s Pen essay competition and all 9th through 12th grade students to submit an original video in this year’s Voice of Democracy audio-essay compe- Oct. 24 - Annual Halloween Party, Hesperia Community Library, 12-2 p.m. tition. The theme for this year’s competition is “What a Veteran Taught Me About Oct. 24 - Mobile Food Pantry, Shelby State Bank parking lot,Shelby, 2 p.m. America.” According to vfwmi.org each contest encourages young minds to examine Oct. 24 - Sylo Heating & Cooling, Trunk or Treat, Hart, 2-4 p.m. America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, Oct. 24 - Trunk or Treat, Mears UMC, 4 p.m. by drafting either a 300- to 400-word essay (middle schoolers) or creating a 3-5 Oct. 25 - Tractors & Treats, West Michigan Research Station, 1-4 p.m. minute audio file (for high schoolers), expressing their views based on the patriotic theme chosen annually. Oct. 26 - National Asparagus Festival Annual Meeting, Hart City Hall Entries will be judged at the county level, with first, second and third place winCouncil Chambers, 5:30 p.m. ners being chosen. Essay and audio file winners from Oceana County will advance Oct. 27 - DHHS Health Department #10 Trunk or Treat, 5-6:30 p.m. to the regional competition, where first, second and third place winners will also be named, receive cash prizes and advance to the state competition. Winners will Oct. 28 - Hesperia Area Small Business Buzz Coffee Circle, 9:30 a.m. also be named and awarded cash prizes at the state level and then move on to the Oct. 30 - Halloween Parade, Downtown Hart, 1:15 p.m. national competition. The grand prize for the national winner of the Patriot’s Pen essay competition will be $5,000, and the grand prize for the national winner of the Oct. 30 - Trick or Treat, OCMCF, 6-7 p.m. Voice of Democracy audio file competition will be $35,000. Entry forms are available at any Oceana County public or private school. Home Oct. 31 - Shelby Congregational UCC Free Community Breakfast, 8-10 a.m. school students are also welcome to enter. Essays should be submitted to a stuOct. 31 - 12th Annual Dune Clean up, 9 a.m. dent’s respective school counseling office no later than Friday, Oct. 30 at noon. Visit Oct. 31 - Trick or Treating on the Dunes, 12 p.m. vfwmi.org and select the Program tab for more information, or email youthscholarOct. 31 - Double JJ Rodeo Grounds, Trunk or Treat, 3-6 p.m. ships@vfw.org. Barb Locke, Hart VFW community service chairperson, is the local contact and can be reached at 231-301-1502.

K of C Harvest Dinner Fundraiser set for October 24

Oct. 31 - Donuts and Cider, Pentwater Fire Department, 5 p.m.

Oct. 31 - Trunk or Treat, First Baptist Church of Pentwater, 5-7 p.m.

The Hart Knights of Columbus Mary Queen of Peace Council 2199 is having a Oct. 31 - Trick or Treat, Village of Walkerville, 5-7 p.m. Harvest Dinner Fundraiser at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church Parish Hall on SaturOct. 31 - Trick or Treat, City of Hart, 6-8 p.m. day, Oct. 24 from 4-8 p.m. They cordially invite the community and their parish family to this event. The dinner will feature chicken or pulled pork with fresh sweet Oct. 31 - Trunk or Treat, Downtown Shelby, 6-7:30 p.m. corn, baked potato, and a brownie for dessert, with lemonade, water or coffee for a beverage. Meals will be available for take-out or dining in. A free will donation Free virtual Mindfulness for Better Sleep series offered is requested to benefit local K of C youth programs, such as the Spelling Bee ConQuality sleep is essential for protecting heart health, preserving memory and test, Coats for Kids, and the Keep Christ in Christmas Contest. For questions or donations, please contact 231-233-1560 or 231-845-5436 or the St. Gregory Catholic boosting daily energy. To help Michigan residents quiet busy minds and build gentler nightly routines, MSU Extension is hosting a free, six-week online workshop seChurch at 231-873-2660 ext. 3. ries called Mindfulness for Better Sleep. The virtual series takes place on Mondays from Oct. 26 through Nov. 30, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EST via Zoom. These PLA board meeting planned for October 19 are live interactive sessions with group discussion. The Pentwater Lake Association board of directors will meet Monday, Oct. 19 at Led by Health Educator Naomi Hyso, this supportive program combines prac6:30 p.m. at the Centenary Methodist Church at 82 N. Hancock St., Pentwater. tical sleep education with gentle, accessible mindfulness techniques designed to The public is invited to attend and is asked to enter at the Hancock Street Hall ease physical discomfort and reduce daily worries. All Michigan adults are welentrance. come to join. Membership in the Pentwater Lake Association is open to all individuals interContact Hyso at hysonaom@msu.edu for questions or assistance. Registration ested in the lake, its natural resources and its water quality. Members do not have is required by Oct. 25. To register, scan the QR code above with your smartphone to own lake property in order to join this nonprofit organization. camera to open the sign-up page instantly or visit the following link, https://bit. More details and past meeting minutes are available on the Pentwater Lake As- ly/4ygCeUw sociation website at www.pentwaterlakeassociation.com. This program is supported by the Rural Health and Safety Education program, project award No. 2024-46100-42884, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s NaFROM THE STAFF AT tional Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”― L. M. Montgomery, “Anne of Green Gables” We won’t claim to speak for all librarians, but we think one would be hardpressed to find a librarian who didn’t love October as much as Anne Shirley from “Anne of Green Gables,” and that includes all of us at Hesperia Community Library. Whether your October plans include fall color hikes, Halloween, football, a pumpkin patch or just a pumpkin spice latte, the Hesperia Community Library has something for everyone - so get out your favorite cardigan and join us! One of our biggest events of the year is happening next week - our seventh annual Halloween party! This year has more spooky activities, including a spider web crawl, an entire mad scientist lab with a DIY slime station and new photo backdrops - as well as games, contests, crafts, prizes and just an absurd amount of candy. The party goes from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, so make a plan now to have a scary good time! Looking ahead to next month, we are offering two special programs in addition to the regular weekly and monthly programs we offer all year. The first program will be an autumn-themed paint-and-sip (no alcohol) program with Thom LaCount taking place after the library closes on Nov. 13. We have 14 spots available, so registration will be required and will open about two weeks before the class. The second program requires no registration and takes place after storytime on Black Friday, when we will be hosting a Christmas movie marathon with cookies, cocoa and other cozy snacks from noon to 5:30 p.m. Come for one movie or come for all of them. Wear something warm and soft and spend the day after Thanksgiving in a low-key activity designed to get everyone into the Christmas spirit. But until then, Happy October! .

Tractors & Treats returns October 25 in Hart Oceana County Farm Bureau, in partnership with MSU Extension and the West Central Michigan Research & Extension Station, will be hosting their annual agriculture-themed Halloween event – Tractors & Treats on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. The event will run from 1-4 p.m at the West Central Michigan Research & Extension Station, 5185 N. Oceana Dr. in Hart. Children can collect trinkets and treats and get to see tractors and farm equipment up close. Additional activities being planned include a book walk with a complimentary book, tractor rides into the station orchard, a pumpkin decorating station and a family photo booth. New this year, the Lakeshore Museum Center will have their giant trebuchet to fling pumpkins. There will be apple cider, provided by J&H Fleming Farms, and donuts for attendees, while supplies last. Kids are encouraged to dress in costume to add to the fun of the event. Anyone interested in participating by bringing a tractor to display and hand out treats, setting up a table and handing out treats or interested in volunteering, please contact Kathy Walicki at walicki@msu.edu or Justin Adams at adams108@msu.edu. .

4:8 Fitness to host 2nd Obstacle Color Run A second Obstacle Color Run, sponsored by 4:8 Fitness, will be held Saturday, Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. at Silverback Offroad Speedway, 7186 W. Deer Rd. in Mears. The event is free and open to all ages and abilities. “4:8 Fitness, a ministry of The Training Grounds, got its name from the scripture verses of 1 Timothy 4:8; Philippians 4:8 and James 4:8,” co-owner of 4:8 Fitness, Laurie Rose, said. “There are no age divisions. Participants will be able to move through the course at whatever pace feels most comfortable - running, jogging or walking.” The course will consist of obstacles, color zones and encouraging statements to think about in 1.5 mile, 5K and 4.8 mile loops. Obstacles are designed for adults and kids alike. Please email 48fitnesscoach@gmail.com to volunteer or for more information. For a list of future events, to read the 48Fitness blog or to learn more, visit thetrainginggrounds.net.

6 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO The Journey to the Promised Land: Part 5 - Keeping Danger at Bay (Verse 2) By Janet Van Gunst Hasselbring The Oceana Echo Community Columnist Again, we are reminded by Scott Weidensaul in his "Living on the Wind: Across the Hemisphere with Migratory Birds" that "At every moment of every day, morning or midnight regardless of the season, there are birds aloft in the skies of the Western Hemisphere, migrating," It’s hunting season. Deer graze in peril, pheasants scoot in and out of sparse piles of brush, and flocks of migrating shorebirds fly exposed against a cloudless sky – all of them are fighting the odds against hunters in camouflage, who would do them harm. Hunting dogs bark, or “bay,” at game until their masters arrive. “Keeping at bay" means to keep something or someone at a distance or prevent a threat from advancing. William Cullen Bryant describes the annual exchange between hunters and their unsuspecting prey in verse two of his poem, "To a Waterfowl: " "Vainly the fowler's eye Might mark thy distant flight to do thee wrong, As, darkly painted on the crimson sky, Thy figure floats along."

Migration, for a shorebird, is a challenging undertaking, with dehydration, lack of food, veering off course, battling wind currents, and, always, the feared fowler posing threats. In this series, we’re discovering how our life’s journey resembles that of a shorebird’s migration. Our journeys, like theirs, are fraught with challenges that can derail, discourage or distract us from our heavenly destination. In his book, "Pilgrim’s Progress," John Bunyan describes the dangers that his protagonist, Christian, encounters on his way to heaven – dangers of the world, the flesh and the devil: 1. Dangers of the World - The pursuit of money and possessions can choke out spiritual growth, making a believer forget his dependence on his Maker. Pressure to compromise tempts believers to lower moral standards, to avoid being judged or criticized; conformity leads one to trust cultural standards, media messaging, and popular opinion rather than divine truth. “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2) 2. Dangers of the Flesh – Preferring

3757 W. Polk Rd. Hart, MI 49420

Sunday Services

English: 10 a.m. Spanish/Español: 12:30 p.m.

ease, immediate comfort and self-gratification over spiritual discipline, sacrifice and obedience to God, we become lazy in prayer, give in to impure desires, and embark on ego trips, needing to protect our reputations rather than seeking God’s glory and doing His will. “The concern of the flesh is death, but the concern of the spirit is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6) 3. Dangers of the Infernal Enemy – The devil is a very real adversary, actively seeking to deceive, destroy and discourage souls through lies and spiritual opposition. He chips away at a believer’s passion for God and seeks to undermine his faith with fear, doubt and spiritual exhaustion. “Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) Because birds fly in flocks when migrating, they become easy prey for hunters. In the past, huge numbers of

St. Joseph & St. Vincent Catholic Churches

St. Gregory-Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Parish

www.stjosephweare.org

Saturday: 4 p.m. (English) OLF Sunday: 9:30 a.m. (English) STG Domingo: 11:30 a.m. (Español) STG Domingo: 6 p.m. (Español) OLF

Office: 231-873-5776

Check out our Facebook page

Clothing Closet: Every Wed. 4-6 p.m. St. Joseph, Weare Family Dinner: 1st & 3rd Wed. 5-6 p.m. 2380 W. Jackson Rd., Hart

Church Directory

CENTENARY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Be the Breath of God in Community.

June 28 through September 6 Sundays at 9:30 AM Pentwater Village Green

Fall, Winter & Spring Worship 10:30 AM - Yellow Brick Church at 82 S. Hancock St. in Pentwater Rev. Dr. Vaughn W. Thurston-Cox, Pastor www.pentwaterumc.org

claybankS united MethodiSt church

Sunday WorShip 10:30 a.m.

(231) 873-0832

Full class schedule on our website:

hartwesleyanchurch.org

Saturday Mass: 7 p.m. Sunday Mass: 9 a.m.

St. Vincent, Pentwater 637 E. Sixth St. Saturday Mass: 4 p.m. Sunday Mass: 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome to join us

Hesperia Presbyterian Church

in worship Sunday mornings

- Easter through October

at 10 a.m.

Confessions: 1/2 hour before all Masses, except 10:30 Mass

82 Church St. P.O. Box 336 Hesperia, MI 49421 (231) 854-3075 hpc11@frontier.com

birds were killed for their food or, like the egret, killed for their feathers, which were used for women’s hats. State laws failed to stop the slaughter, and bird populations dropped dramatically. The snowy egret, sandhill crane and wood duck were in danger of vanishing. The passenger pigeon was wiped out entirely. To fix this, the U.S. and Great Britain, acting for Canada, signed the wildlife protection treaty in 1916. In 1918, Congress passed the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, putting that treaty into legal effect. Today, the treaty protects more than 1,000 native bird species in the U.S. Just as migratory birds are protected from danger, God promises to protect those who believe and trust in Him. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, walking and talking with Him in prayer, reading His Word, obeying His commands and doing His will, we can ward off danger as we journey toward the Promised Land. “The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will guard your soul. The LORD will guard your coming and going both now and forever.” (Psalm 121:7-8) “…Thy figure floats along.” To access the entire poem, visit https://poets.org/poem/waterfowl

Rev. Phil Sliwinski, Pastor

Misas en inglés y español Sunday Mass Times:

Daily Mass & Adoration Times:

Tuesday: 6 p.m. (English) STG Wednesday: 9 a.m.(English) STG Jueves: 6 p.m. Misa y Adoración después de Misa (Español) STG Viernes: 6 p.m. (Español) STG Friday: 8 a.m. Adoration & 9 a.m. Mass (English) OLF

Reconciliation:

9:30 a.m. Wednesday @ STG 9:30 a.m. Friday @ OLF 3:30 p.m. Saturday @ OLF 5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday @ STG St. Gregory: 214 S. Peach Ave., Hart Our Lady of Fatima: 1372 S. Oceana Dr., Shelby www.stgregoryathart.org Fr. Juan Palomar • (231) 873-2660

Hart United Methodist Church

St. Peter’S-By-the-Lake ePiScoPaL church 8435 Old Channel Trail, Montague 616-894-0172 SUNDAY EUCHARIST – 9 a.m. stpetersmontague@gmail.com stpetersbythelake.weebly.com

Blessings Abound!

St. Stephens

Lutheran Church

308 S. State St., Hart, MI 49420

(LCMS) 82 S. Wythe St. in Pentwater 7400 W. Johnson Rd., (231) 869-7351 hartunitedmethodist.org A warm welcome is extended 5631 W. Stony Lake Rd. Shelby • 231-861-2952 www.facebook.com/HUMCmichigan to all who worship here Join Us For Worship 49446 • 231-861-4059 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. New Era, MI 10:30 AM Sunday Service 9197 56th avenue Sundays at 10 a.m. office@tlcnewera.org • tlcnewera.org Pastor Cydney Idsinga Summer Outdoor Service joinus@stjamesepiscopalpentwater.org Montague, Mi Rev. Sarah J. Samuelson If you would like an appointment Rev. Kurt Overway We Believe That God Loves Sunday Worship Service: 8 & 10 a.m. 231-923-0573 with Pastor Cyd, please call www.ststephensshelby.org Barrier Free Access Nursery Provided claybankSuMc@gMail.coM You - No Exceptions 231-873-3516

231-873-3516

Ferry Memorial Reformed Church

Mears United Shelby Methodist Church Congregational

Sunday Worship: 10:00 am Walkerville Wesleyan Church

Barrier Free • Nursery Provided Youth Group: Sundays 5-7 pm 231.894.9415

8637 Old Channel Trail Montague, Michigan

www.ferrychurch.org

First Methodist oF shelby (Formerly Shelby UMC)

We are an independent, local church serving our communities and reaching beyond.

SUNDAY WORSHIP: 11 AM

Shelby Congregational UCC building

FMCShelby@gmail.com

Find us on Facebook:

First-Methodist Church Of-Shelby MAiling Address Worship Address

8463 W. Shelby Rd., Shelby

51 E. 3rd St., Shelby

Love our community toward Christ

Our independent, non-denominational church is committed to reaching and serving those in our communities.

Sunday Service: 10 am Sunday 10:30 am Streamed on Safe Haven: Every Wed. 3-5 pm Wed. Family Night: 6-8 pm Open gym and showers available Last FRI: Free Soup Supper, 5:30-7 pm 231.873.5040 144 S Hamon St, Walkerville

Office@walkervillewesleyanchurch.org

4075 S. 132nd Ave., Hesperia 231-861-5007 NEWMANC3.ONLINE

Do No Harm, Do Good, Stay In Love With God

1990 N. 56th Ave. Mears, MI 49436 10 am Service 231-873-0875 www.mearsumc.org Pastor Bev Williams

All Are Welcome

followers gathered. disciples scattered

1820 Ray Ave. 231-861-5554 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Rev. John Medendorp www.neweracrc.org

Growing in Relationship with God, with Each Other, and with Our Community.

2500 W. Winston Rd. • 231-893-4965 9:30 a.m. Morning Service 11:15 a.m. Sunday Bible Classes

Nursery provided Senior Pastor - James Enns Associate Pastor - Bryan Wolff Associate Pastor - Luke Craymer Adult small groups and family ministries every week Second Monday Food Pantry 9:15-11:30 a.m.

Becoming Committed Followers of Jesus Christ www.rothburycommunity.com

4775 First St • 231-861-2501 SUNDAY SERVICE: 9:30 a.m. Children’s SS: 9:45 a.m. Nursery Provided Pastor Benjamin Oliveira Coffee fellowship after service

newerareformedchurch.org

United Church of Christ

51 E. Third St.

231-861-4404 • shelbycucc@gmail.com on Facebook • website under development

Sunday Service - 9:15 a.m. Coffee time follows

Sunday School (Ages 4-12) • Nursery available • Chancel Choir & Bell Choir meet Wednesdays • Adult Bible Studies - Thursdays, Fall - May • 5th Saturday - Free Breakfast 8-10 a.m. • Hearing Loop • Barrier Free

EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

White Lake UMC

Worship God, Follow Jesus, Love & Serve all

Sunday Worship

9am Traditional Service 11am Praise Band Service 11am Kids Church/Youth Class/Nursery Weekly Faith Groups for All Ages Choir and Handbells Mission Opportunities Home of the White Lake Free Store and The Gathering free meals 8555 Cook Street Montague, MI 49437 (231) 894-5789 www.whitelakeumc.org

THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 7 In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Edward Joseph Juska

December 4, 1944 ~ October 10, 2026

Edward Joseph Juska, 81, passed away at home Saturday, October 10, 2026. He was born December 4, 1944, in Hart, to Anthony and Rosetta (Shafer) Juska. Ed married Linda Williams on August 15, 1964. Ed retired from Misco/Howmet after 40 years. He enjoyed his family, woodworking, gardening, camping and going to the casino. Ed was an amazing, loving husband, father and grandfather. He was liked by all who met him. Roger Jorissen, age 76, of Pentwater, Michigan, passed Ed is survived by: his children, Todd (Lori) Juska, away at home on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. He was born Brenda (Robert) Morales, and Heidi (Thomas) Serna Jr.; July 22, 1950, in Hart, Michigan, to John and Nellie (Arfive grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He will nouts) Jorissen. be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a Roger served in the United States Army in wonderful man. Berlin, Germany. After returning home from Ed was preceded in death by: his parents, Anthony and Rosetta; wife, Linda; military service, he met Jean Raymond of Walkand son, Shane. erville. They were married on October 21, 1972, A celebration of Ed’s life will be held from 1-3 pm, Wednesday, October 21, and raised three sons: Gary, Bradly, and Todd. 2026, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan, 49455. InRoger spent much of his life behind the wheel terment will be in South Hart Cemetery. as a dedicated truck driver with the handle “WoodIn lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to the family to assist with chuck.” He took pride in his work and was known for his funeral expenses. skill in backing up his trailers. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. Throughout his career, he cut wood for Ray Nash Forestry and drove for www.harrisfhome.com Towns Trucking, Van Kampen Brothers, Yellow Rose, Meekoff, Cordes Trucking, and Dan Peterson & Son Limestone. When he wasn’t on the road, Roger enjoyed planting his garden, creek fishing, deer hunting with the boys, and spending time with his family. Roger is survived by: his wife, Jean Jorissen; his three sons, Gary (Anne) Jorissen, Bradly (Kate) Jorissen, and Todd (Kristin) Jorissen; his grandchildren, Wayne Basil Wheeler (known by many locally as Papa Nichole (Chad) Deters, Bryce, Logan, Kelsey, Maggie, Ben, Colton, Nolan, and Griffin; two great-grandsons, Crew and Jayce Deters; sisters, Brenda (Phil) Deck- Wayne) was born on July 19, 1929, the youngest of 11 chiler of Lawton, Michigan, and Marilyn (Denny) Thompson of Florida; and sister- dren born to Leonard Wheeler and Ethel Zoe Stringham. Wayne grew up with little, learning early the value in-law, Janet Jorissen, with whom he shared a special bond. He was preceded in death by: his sister and brother-in-law, Marlene and of hard work, determination, and perseverance. He Charles Monton; brother, Marshall Jorissen; and great-granddaughter, Presley left high school to help support himself and his family, lessons that remained with him throughout his life. Kay Deters. He proudly served his country in the United Roger will be lovingly remembered by his family and all who knew him. States Army. He worked in the medical field at Memorial services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, October 17, 2026, Army hospitals in the United States and, during at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., the Korean Conflict, served as a combat medic, Hart, MI 49420, with visitation being held from 10 a.m. until time of service and providing care and comfort to fellow service mema luncheon at the funeral home following all services. The family will receive bers in difficult and dangerous circumstances. friends from 6-8 p.m., Friday, October 16, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral On July 24, 1950, Wayne married Elizabeth Maxine Smith. Together they were Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, MI 49420. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to an organi- blessed with five sons. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, never hesization of your choice in memory of Roger and his battle with Parkinson’s disease tating to take on extra work when it was needed. While his sons were growing up, Wayne gave generously of his time to his and Lewy body dementia. The family would like to thank the individuals from Cornerstone Caregiving community. He coached Little League, served as a Cub Scout master, and was and Elara Caring Hospice who provided loving care to Roger and supported Jean an adult committee member for the Boy Scouts of America. He also volunteered through the hardest days. Their kindness and compassion will always be remem- with Civil Defense and was deputized as a volunteer deputy sheriff, reflecting his lifelong commitment to serving and protecting others. bered. Wayne was a resourceful and hardworking provider. While working at a local Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arfactory, he collected cardboard for recycling and picked fruit in the fall. He later rangements. www.beaconfh.com hauled soiled laundry for North Ottawa Community Hospital, work that eventually developed into a moving business. He also served as an EMT and aide at North Ottawa Community Hospital. After moving to the Myrtle Beach area in 1982, Wayne continued working as a security guard and journeyman plumber. When he returned to Michigan in 2003, he lived with his son Skip, the Rev. Wayne Basil Wheeler Jr. He continued to help Rex Alan Powers, 76, of Hart, passed away peacefully on with mowing and groundskeeping until a heart-valve transplant required him to Monday, October 5, 2026, with his loving family by his use a walker. side. Wayne was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving in many roles, includRex was born on March 16, 1950, in Hart, Michiing Grand Knight of Third Degree councils in Grand Haven, Michigan, and Surfgan, the son of Floyd and Wilma (Terryn) Powers. A side Beach, South Carolina. He also served as Faithful Navigator of the Fourth lifelong part of the Hart community, Rex will be reDegree. A proud member of Disabled American Veterans, he eventually became membered most for the love he shared with his fama district director for the organization in South Carolina. ily and the memories he created throughout his life. He was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was shoveling snow for the Rex was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, parish in winter or baking cakes to thank the credit union tellers and the mechanand friend. He treasured the time he spent with the ic who cared for his vehicles. In his later years, he continued to support charitable people he loved and leaves behind a family who will causes. When donation requests came with small gifts, he often passed those gifts carry his memory with them. His life was defined not only on to someone who would appreciate them, sometimes adding money he had by the years he lived, but by the love, kindness, and memosaved to benefit the Westshore Family Support Center. ries he gave to those around him. Wayne will be remembered by many as a kind, generous man with a good sense Rex is survived by: his son, Alan (Amanda) Powers; and grandson, Elliot of humor, a steadfast work ethic, and a deep love for his family and community. Powers. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth; his sons, Delbert Rex was preceded in death by: his parents, Floyd and Wilma Powers; and his Isaac and Michael Jerome; his parents; and all of his siblings. beloved wife, Sally (McLouth) Powers. He is survived by his sons, the Rev. Wayne Basil Wheeler Jr., Jude Matthias, Those who knew Rex will remember him with love and gratitude. Though he and Anthony Quinten; as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. will be deeply missed, his memory will continue through his family, the stories The family extends heartfelt thanks to those who loved and affirmed Wayne they share, and the love he gave throughout his life. throughout his life, especially the parishioners and staff of St. Simon Catholic Memorial services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2026, at Church; Cheri Leets of Papa’s Place; the staff of Elara Caring Hospice; and Kirk Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49455, with Pastor and Courtney Barz. Bill Ryder officiating. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon on Tuesday, October 20, services at the funeral home. at St. Simon Catholic Church in Ludington. A vigil service will be held at 6 p.m. A luncheon will be provided following the service at Faith Christian Fellowon Monday, October 19, at St. Simon Catholic Church, following visitation from ship, 400 S. Hart St., Hart, MI 49420. 4-6 p.m. Harris Funeral Home in Shelby is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers or food, the family requests that donations be made in www.harrisfhome.com Wayne’s memory to the charity of your choice. The family recommends the educational foundation of the nearest Catholic school, Hearts for Haiti at St. Simon Obituary Information: Catholic Church, or local agencies serving the Ludington community. 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 Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel is in charge of obituary with us, please tell your arrangement specialist or email us at theoceanaecho@gmail.com. arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Roger Alan Jorissen July 22, 1950 ~ October 6, 2026

Wayne Basil Wheeler July 19, 1929 ~ October 6, 2026

Rex Alan Powers

March 15, 1950 ~ October 5, 2026

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Consisting “Belle” Boyd was arrested for the first By JoAnn Derson Earth. time bytreaties Union following troops andtalks heldattendat the of three OldbyCapitol Prison inSynd., Washington, ed than 5,000 prominent © more 2026 King Features Inc. D.C. Aand skilled though spy chiefs warriors nearteenage Medicine who provided the Lodge, Kansas,vital its information aim was to to bring Confederate army during the Civil peace by relocating Native Americans War, she eventually parlayed her expeto reservations in Indian Territory. riences into a book and acting career. •• On Oct. 22, 2018, actress Selma On July 30, 1956, two years after Blair she’d been“under diagurgingrevealed insertionthat of the phrase God” into Pledge of Allegiance, nosed withthemultiple sclerosis. In President DwightBaby: Eisenhower signed her book “Mean A Memoir of a law officially declaring “In God We Growing Up,” Blair recounted how the Trust” to be America’s official announcement by doctors, aftermotto. years • On July 31, 1964, the unmanned of incorrectly attributed symptoms, U.S. like lunar probebirth” Ranger tookher 4,308 “felt giving and7gave an close-up images of the moon before overwhelming sense of relief. impacting with its surface northwest 1947, Gerty Carl of• On the Oct. Sea 23, of Clouds. The and pictures were became 1,000 times as clear as anything Cori the first spouses to win viewed telescopes apreviously joint Nobel Prizethrough in Physiology or on Earth. for their discovery of how Medicine, On Aug. 1, down, 1782, Caroline the• body breaks builds up Herand schel glycogen discovered viewstores asaancomet energyafter source. ing it through a telescope — the first • Ondiscovery Oct. 24, credited 1901, herto63rd birthsuch a woman. day, widowedastronomer American William schoolteachHer brother, Herer Annie Edson Taylor became schel, had discovered Uranus the first year before.toThe first aprofessional person survive plunge overfemale Niagastronomer, would go on to disara Falls in ashe barrel, accompanied by cover seven more cometspillow. in 11 years. her lucky heart-shaped Sadly, • On Aug. a memoir 2, 1992, Jackie while she wrote and briefly Joyner-Kersee becameabout the first womearned money talking her expean ever she to win twoup consecutive Olymrience, ended dying penniless pic gold medals in the heptathlon. and in poor health at age 82. © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc. • On Oct. 25, 1920, Greece’s King Alexander died at age 27 from wounds he received after a Barbary macaque attacked and bit him several times a few weeks earlier, as he walked on the grounds outside the castle with his dog. The monkey had first gone after the dog, and the king had stepped in to separate the animals.

8 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

• “Apply petroleum jelly to the panes of your windows before painting the trim. This works better than masking tape in many ways. It is easily removed, and even large paint flecks come right • “Apply petroleum jelly to the panes off.” — P.S. in Illinois of your windows before painting the • For easy-cleanup pancakes, use a trim. This works better than masking turkey basterways. to “squirt” the removed, batter in tape in many It is easily the frying pan. No drips, andcome it usually and even large paint flecks right results a pretty good circle, too! off.” —inP.S. in Illinois you are ablepancakes, to pick upuse extraa • When For easy-cleanup meat atbaster a great youthe want to be turkey to price, “squirt” batter in the pan. No it usually surefrying that while it’s drips, frozen,and it maintains results a pretty good too! seal its best in taste. Use this tipcircle, to vacuum your meat without any special •• When you are able to pick extra When you are able to pick up upequipextra ment! meatprice, pieces a plastic, meat aa great you to meat at atAdd great price, youtowant want to be be zipper-top bag. it’s Fillfrozen, a largeititpot several sure maintains sure that that while while it’s frozen, maintains inches deep Use withthis water. the bag, its tip vacuum seal its best best taste. taste. Use this tip to toSeal vacuum seal but inch or sospecial unsealed. As your meat without any equipyourleave meatan without any special equipyou lower the bag into the water (zipper ment! Add meat pieces to a plastic, ment! Add meat pieces to a plastic, top up) thebag. air will the zipper-top Fill aa large pot zipper-top bag. Fill escape largethrough pot several several unsealed portion. air remains, inches with water. Seal the inches deep deep withWhen water.no Seal the bag, bag, but an inch or so As seal the bag then from the but leave leave anand inch or remove so unsealed. unsealed. As you lower the bag into the water (zipper water. you lower the bag into the water (zipper top the airyou will escapethis through the • up) “Have singletop up) the air will tried escape through the unsealed portion. When no air remains, serving blender hack using aremains, mason unsealed portion. When no air seal the bag and then remove from the jar? standard size blender blades seal Most the bag and then remove from the water. can be screwed on to a pint Mason jar. water. “Have you this you singleIf••you’re one of the tried lucky ones, can “Have you triedusing thisa singleserving blender hack mason make single servings of smoothies to serving blender hack using a mason jar? Most standard size in blender blades blend and go.” — T.U. South Carojar? be Most standard size blender blades can screwed on to a pint Mason jar. lina can be screwed on to a pint Mason jar. If you’re one of the lucky ones, you can “Baby have diaper rash? One of can the If•you’re one of the lucky you make single servings of ones, smoothies to best is—‘air — that is, makeremedies single servings ofinsmoothies to blend and go.” T.U.time’ South Caroletting baby go— without diaperCarofor a blend and go.” T.U. ina South lina bit. Another simple soother is a baking lina • “Baby diaper rash? One of the soda bath.have Try adding 2-4 tablespoons • “Baby have rash? Onethat of the best remedies isdiaper ‘air time’ — is, of baking soda to Junior’s bathwater.” best remedies ‘air time’ — that letting baby goiswithout a diaper foris, a — J.C. via email letting baby go without a diaper for a bit. Another simple soother is a baking • After cooked chickbit. Another simple soother is a baking soda bath.you’ve Try adding 2-4 your tablespoons en whole, remove the meat and throw of baking to Junior’s bathwater.” soda bath. soda Try adding 2-4 tablespoons the bones remaining carcass in the — J.C. viaand email of baking soda to Junior’s bathwater.” slow cooker with 3-4 cups of water. Let —• J.C. viayou’ve email After cooked your chickit •cook low forcooked several hours for a en whole, remove the meatyour and chickthrow Afteronyou’ve spectacularly flavorful the bones and remaining carcass in the en whole, remove the broth. meat and throw slow cooker with 3-4 of water. Send your tips tocups Now Here’s a the bones and remaining carcass in Let the it cook on low several Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr.,ofhours Suite 300, slow cooker withfor3-4 cups water.for Leta spectacularly flavorful broth.hours for a Orlando, 32810. it cook onFL low for several spectacularly flavorful broth. Send© your tipsFeatures to Now a 2026 King Synd., Here’s Inc. Tip, 1800 Pembrook 300,a Send your tips to Dr., NowSuite Here’s Orlando, 32810. Dr., Suite 300, Tip, 1800FL Pembrook © 2026 Features Synd., Inc. Orlando, FLKing 32810. © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

© 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Lucie Winborne By Lucie Winborne • In ancient Egyptian mummifica• According to facial recognition tion, onions were sometimes used to fill software, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona body cavities, even serving on occasion Lisa” is 83% happy, 9% disgusted, 6% as false eyes. fearful and 2% angry. • About 90% of all harvested olives • The lowinto air olive pressure are turned oil. of a twister can literally pull a person’s eardrum out• Fijian war chief Ratu Udre Udre ward. holds the rather dubious distinction 1900, includof• In being themotor mostboating active was cannibal in ed in the Olympic Games. Only few recorded history, with a reportedaconraces were held, however, they sumption of between 872 andand 999 peowere eventually discontinued due to ple during his lifetime. inconsistent weather and mechanical • Teenagers naturally experience a failures. biological shift that causes them to fall • One acre peanuts can make asleep later thanofadults. 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches. • The red poinsettia originated in • The first Europeans to Joel discover the Mexico and is named after Roberts Great Lakes named themStates the “SweetPoinsett, the first United ambaswater to Seas” andinbelieved sador Mexico the earlythat 19thChina cenbordered their shores. tury. The skin a jellyfish so thin that •• Shells andofstones on theisritual blades the animal can breathe through it. used by the Aztecs symbolized the facCellist Daniel es• of the gods forCrawford which thecomposed hearts of a musical piece for thewere cello intended, in which sacrificed individuals each note a year on between NASA’s with suchrepresents rituals claiming record of global average temperature, 10,000-15,000 people per year. from 1880-2012. • Sheep only have teeth in their lower • Between 1930upper and palate 1935,tonearly jaw and use a hard break 750,000 American farms were lost down food. through sheriff sales. • Everybankruptcy second, theorsun delivers about • A manterawatts once sued Anheuser-Busch 173,000 of energy to Earth, with theis claim company’s which more that thanthe 10,000 times ads the misrepresented potential attractiveamount of powerhis used by humans. ness to the opposite sex,isifthe he would just • Although English country’s drink their beer. most widely spoken language, the • The States Persian “Explanation of United hasepic never designated an Chatranglanguage and the atInvention of Nard” official the federal level, tells thesome storystates of chess being introduced though have at their level. to• The the royal court by an envoy from video game industry consistentIndia. ly brings in more money than Holly• During the 18th and 19th centuries, wood. many British andtheAmerican newspa• Long before Nazis adopted it, persswastika featuredwas elegies for dead pets. the an ancient religious Among them, one scholar foundfortune, six for symbol associated with good monkeys, 12 canaries, Versions 17 for cats spirituality andforprosperity. of andhave 53 for dogs. across India, China, it appeared • Egyptians used ancient vast amounts of linGreece and other civilizations en to mummify a body — in fact, the for centuries. fabric on one mummy fromshort the until 11th • Basketball shorts were dynasty measured 9,095 feet, enough to 1984, when Michael Jordan petitioned cover three the NBA fortennis longercourts. ones. *** *** Thought for for the theDay: Day:“Civilizations “You’ve got Thought to get tobethe stage in by lifethe where going should measured degree of for it is more important than winning or diversity attained and the degree of unilosing.” — Arthur Ashe ty retained.” — W.H. Auden © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc. © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

OC ANIMAL SHELTER Hi. I'm Sage. I'm 4 years old. My resume includes: professional fetch enthusiast (I never get tired - you will); certified water quality inspector (puddles, kiddie pools, lakes...I'll test them all); and I'm a German Shepherd extraordinaire with ears that can hear a treat bag open from three rooms away. I'm great with kids and I do like to remind everyone that I could be in charge if needed. Think of me as management material. I also need to be the only pet in the home. Cats? Jury's still out. I've never had one on my committee. If your idea of fun includes fetch, water adventures and having a loyal sidekick, we should definitely meet.

Meet Sage

Sage is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the shelter at 231861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35 and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and will receive a $50 certificate good for spay/neuter if needed. Every dog should have an ID tag. L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231-730-3906. Free tags are also available at the OCEANA County Animal Shelter.

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THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 9

OCF invests in locals through Leadership Learning Lab 5 Oceana County leaders join regional program focused on strengthening relationships, skills and collaboration communities need to thrive

Strong communities depend on more than programs and resources. They depend on people who know how to work together. That's why the Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) is investing in the people behind the organizations and institutions serving Oceana County. Five local leaders have been selected to participate in the 2026-27 Leadership Learning Lab, a year-long regional leadership development program focused on strengthening leadership skills, building relationships across sectors and increasing community impact. The investment comes at a time when rural communities are navigating increasingly complex economic and social challenges, often with limited staff and resources. Across Michigan, rural-development efforts increasingly emphasize that strong leadership, community engagement, planning and partnerships are essential to a community's ability to respond to change and pursue new opportunities. For OCF, that makes investing in people and relationships an important part of investing in Oceana County's future. "The challenges and opportunities facing our community rarely belong to just one organization," OCF CEO Tammy Carey said. "They require people who are willing to listen, learn from one another and work across organizations and sectors. When we invest in those leaders and give them opportunities to build relationships with one another, we're investing in the capacity of our entire community." Selected to represent Oceana County in the 202627 Leadership Learning Lab are: • Lindsay Brown, Economic & Community Development Coordinator, City of Hart • Heather Stephenson, Outreach Regional Coordinator, Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency • Qur'an Griffin, Community Health Coordinator, District Health Dept. #10 • Jack Boitel, Academic Advisor, West Shore Community College

The Leadership Learning Lab grew from a collaboration among 10 northern Michigan community foundations that recognized they could achieve greater impact by working together. The program is facilitated by Rotary Charities of Traverse City and is funded by participating local community foundations. It supports nonprofit executive directors and emerging community and nonprofit leaders as they develop the skills and confidence to strengthen the organizations and communities they serve. For participants from Oceana, Mason and Manistee counties, monthly workshops are hosted at the Lakeshore Resource Network in Ludington. This year's three-county cohort includes 16 nonprofit and community leaders and held its first in-person gathering on Sept. 15. The Leadership Learning Lab is part of OCF's broader commitment to building community capacity, recognizing that thriving communities require strong organizations, strong leaders and strong relationships between them. Since the program began, 26 leaders from Oceana County have participated in the Leadership Learning Lab, representing a wide range of professional and community roles. "The impact doesn't end when the program ends," Carey said. "Participants bring what they've learned back to their organizations, but they also bring back relationships with other leaders. Those connections can open the door to new ideas, partnerships and ways of working together that ultimately benefit the entire community and their respective organizations." OCF supports the Leadership Learning Lab through its Administrative Fund as part of its commitment to nonprofit capacity building and community leadership development. By investing in the people doing the work today, the Oceana Community Foundation hopes to strengthen the network of leaders who will help shape what's possible for Oceana County tomorrow.

• Jo Estrada-Guerra, Departmental Analyst, MDHHS, Farmworker Outreach Services Together, the five participants bring perspectives from local government, human services, public health, higher education and community outreach, creating opportunities for learning and collaboration that extend beyond any one organization. The Leadership Learning Lab provides participants with dedicated time and space to develop as adaptive leaders while learning alongside peers facing similar opportunities and challenges in their own communities. Through monthly workshops, peer learning groups, online engagement and cohort support, participants practice new leadership approaches and build meaningful relationships with leaders from nonprofit organizations, businesses, government agencies and Tribal Nations throughout northern Michigan. "One of the most valuable things we can help create is connection," Carey said. "This program isn't simply about sending someone to leadership training. It's about creating a network of people who know one another, trust one another and can draw on those relationships when opportunities or challenges arise in the future."

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10 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

Pentwater Village Council votes to discontinue Flock Cameras By AnnaMae Bush

• AnnaMae Bush/Echo

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent The Pentwater Village Council met Monday night, Oct. 12, at 6 p.m. for nearly two hours with an audience of 27 persons, many of whom came to hear the discussion and decision about Flock Cameras that was on the agenda. All Council members were present: David Bluhm, Jared Griffis, president Mary Marshall, Dan Nugent, Kathy O’Connor, Don Palmer and Karl Schrumpf. Public comments on agenda items included reasons to discontinue Flock Cameras, spoken by Mike Wallace, Tara Perez and Vaughn Thurston-Cox. Following the request to move one item to new business, the consent agenda was approved. Correspondence included a letter from Ted Cuchna with three concerns, including the new leaf pickup policy. A letter was also received from the Sport Fishing Association with a check enclosed for $2,000 for the fish cleaning station. The Pentwater Fire Department’s report included news that bylaws were completed for the West Michigan Fire Authority, and the new entity would officially begin service on Nov. 1. The police department’s report included news that the no-wake buoys had been removed from Pentwater Lake, signaling the unofficial end of the boating season. Discussion of the Flock Camera recommendation and a report from Zoning Administrator Aaron Bigelow that included three proposals for ordinance amendments were both addressed under New Business. With no committee reports, public hearing or unfinished business, Marshall moved to the list of seven items under New Business. A request from DTE to move the gate valve station from its Monroe Road location to the front of the DPW building was tabled until November to explore what implications the move might have for the DPW staff. This was followed by a presentation from the Gabridge & Co. audit services that

highlighted any notable changes in financial patterns and differences from last year’s balances. The presenter complimented Michele Bieri’s work and the assistance provided by Peter Tierney of Fleis & VandenBrink. He had no specific concerns or recommendations to offer. The next three proposals came from the zoning administrator regarding amendments to the solar ordinance, the sign ordinance and the special land use ordinance. The last of these offered a sixmonth extension to the normal year allowed to complete projects, recognizing possible delays in obtaining required permits and inspections. Another item was the Flock Cameras. Police Chief Laude Hartrum reviewed the 90-page report (posted a day later on the department’s website) and the quantity of feedback from the community. He attached copies of every message he received for council to see. He presented his recommendation to discontinue use of the Flock Camera system and his reasons for doing so. He stated emphatically that no village funds had been spent on the experiment and it accomplished the goals set for it: to try it out and see if it was a system worth continuing. He reminded the group this experiment was not the first time the village had used surveillance systems, and that forms of surveillance are in use many ways throughout society via Ring cameras in homes and businesses, through fingerprints and DNA, facial recognition and increasingly complex systems people may not even be aware of. He said that to ignore the development and evaluation of and participation in the movement is a disadvantage. The comments received noted how the advancement capabilities of surveillance raise moral questions and implica-

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tions. Currently there is concern regarding if Flock Cameras have sufficient control over data, how long it is kept, how it is analyzed and how it is shared. Two lessons of Pentwater’s experiment Hartrum shared were that the placement of cameras in residential areas held no value and that any future use of similar surveillance systems needed to have a civilian oversight committee. The need for better control of data, the negative responses of the community, and the very high cost ($24,000/year) were Hartrum’s reasons for his recommendation. Council voted unanimously to approve the recommendation. Marshall wanted to state that if Pentwater could employ a surveillance system in the future over which they could hold singular control, it would be valuable to the community in cases of missing children or elderly adults with dementia.

Marshall introduced a discussion on an offer from a developer for the 327 Hancock property, the former village office. Manager Toby Van Ess explained the offer included $250,000 to purchase 330 Hancock, the parking lot next to the Chamber of Commerce office. Legally bound to privacy regarding the developer’s plans for 327 Hancock, Van Ess could only say that the developer’s funding for these plans was dependent on having guaranteed parking for 25 vehicles. Denying the purchase of public parking would likely mean passing on the purchase of 327 Hancock. Council members were not persuaded to approve the offer for both properties. After a long discussion, Nugent proposed a meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee on Oct. 16 to explore any other parking options that might exist. The second opportunity for public comment

yielded appreciation for Hartrum’s report and recommendation, a question about what location was available for residents to dump leaves, an affirmation of a Trick or Treat event in the village from 5-7 p.m. on Oct. 31, and disappointment from a Spinnaker condo resident about the lack of information for their residents on plans for 327 Hancock since it would inevitably impact their parking. A Chester Street resident also expressed continued concern about well 4 water and his hope that it would not be an ignored topic. Council comments included thanks to Hartrum. Marshall read a long letter she wrote to share her concern for the fiscal challenges the village has due to the income under which it operates compared to the expenses it faces. She listed the tax mills of neighboring municipalities, which exceed Pentwater's

by 2-5 mills. When Pentwater residents complain to her that “nothing is happening here” compared to recent improvements in downtown Hart and downtown Shelby, she wants to explain the reasons. Those communities received Covid funds, and Pentwater did not. Their annual income is comparatively higher. She invited council members to a retreat (to which residents would be welcome) on the first Monday in December to discuss village finances. In particular, they would examine a document from Van Ess entitled "State of the Village." The manager’s comments included an explanation of the aforementioned document. He also shared news of hiring a new DPW employee, Chad Harmon, along with upcoming hydrant flushing and Oct. 15 park shutdowns. He reported working with EGLE to shut down well 1, which has not been used due to lead content. Recent tests of well 4 use show a slightly higher iron content on Chester Street, but not in the village, where it is mixed with well 2 water. The meeting was adjourned at 7:48 p.m.

WEARE TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 05-26

NOTICE OF AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A LIMITED MORATORIUM TO ALLOW WEARE TOWNSHIP TIME TO ADOPT A BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM ORDINANCE An ordinance to establish a limited moratorium so Weare Township can have adequate time to amend the Weare Township Zoning Ordinance to regulate Data Center development.

THE TOWNSHIP OF WEARE, OCEANA COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ORDAINS: Background. The Township has witnessed the development of solar and other renewable energy within the surrounding communities and in the state. Weare Township Board is now concerned about the need to regulate Data Center development without outside interference or pressure. The Township Board now directs their Planning Commission to prepare such an amendment to the Weare Township Zoning Ordinance. Section 1: Purpose. To allow the Weare Township Planning Commission to have adequate and undisturbed time to prepare and recommend a Zoning Ordinance amendment for Data Center development, which will provide protection and will better secure the public’s health, safety, and general welfare of the Township. Section 2: Moratorium Period. The Township Board imposes a limited moratorium on issuing zoning permits and authorizing building permits for Data Center development for a period of approximately twelve (12) months. Any applications made for BESS development shall be held in abeyance until such ordinance is adopted and effective, but by no later than October 31, 2027. Section 3: Enforcement. This ordinance is enforced by the Township Board. Section 4: Effective Date and Adoption. The ordinance is effective the day after publication.

ADOPTED ON October 12, 2026 and EFFECTIVE the day after this publication. COPIES OF THE MORATORIUM ORDINANCE are Available for Inspection at the Weare Township Offices, Located at: 6506 N. OCEANA DRIVE, HART, MI 49420, OR by CONTACTING: Melanie Sayles, Weare Township Clerk at 231-301-0071

THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 11

More than horses: the Oceana County 4-H Horse Program is growing, learning and reaching new heights - Part 2 By Jennifer Payne Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator Did you know that 50% of our Oceana County 4-H Horse Development Committee members are youth? These youth plan our horse events throughout the year. There is plenty of learning, but there is also plenty of fun, laughter and friendship. One of the special events within our program is the Kaitlynn Scott Memorial Show, with the Saturday horse competition named in Kaitlynn's memory. This year marks seven years since Kaitlynn and her father Eric’s passing. Time does not take away the feeling of missing them or the impact they have had on their family and those who knew them. Kaitlynn's love for animals and her devotion to her mules, Sam and Fritz, were a huge part of who she was. Her compassion for animals, determination and pursuit of excellence left a lasting impression on the people around her. Her generosity and commitment motivated her teammates to reach for higher goals, and her infectious laughter and radiant smile remain part of the memories shared by those who loved her. The memorial show is one way our horse communi-

ty continues to honor that legacy. It reminds us to live with purpose, to nurture the people who lift us up, to extend compassion to the animals that enrich our lives and to pursue the things we love with courage and determination. Kaitlynn's memory continues to be a part of this program, and the Saturday competition gives us an opportunity each year to celebrate the things she loved while bringing our horse community together.

a particular order. Our Hippology teams have also had an incredible year. Our Senior Hippology Team earned 1st Place Overall, and our Junior Hippology Team also had a tremendous showing, placing 2nd Overall. In November, our Senior Hippology Team will travel to Louisville to compete at Eastern Nationals during NAILE. For these youth, this is about much more than a competition. It is an opportunity to represent their county, meet other 4-H youth from across the country, A Year of Success in Hippology and Horse Judging test the knowledge they have worked so hard to develop Two of the biggest accomplishments for our horse and experience a national-level event. program this year have come through our Hippology and Horse Judging teams. There are Many Opportunities to Get Involved Our Senior Novice Horse Judging Team earned When one looks at our Oceana County 4-H Horse 1st Place Overall Team, and they also earned 1st Place Program, they see youth supporting one another evOverall Reasons. Our Junior Novice Horse Judging Team ery step of the way, and most importantly, they see a placed 2nd Overall. These accomplishments demon- program that is growing and creating opportunities for strate not only the youth's ability to evaluate horses, but more youth. also their ability to communicate clearly and explain If you are interested in joining one of our 4-H horse the reasoning behind their decisions. clubs, becoming part of our Horse Judging or HippolHorse judging is an excellent opportunity for youth ogy Team, or volunteering with our program, I would who love horses but may not necessarily have a horse love to hear from you. Please reach out to the Oceana of their own. Participants learn to evaluate conforma- County 4-H office and find your place in our growing tion, movement and performance while developing the horse community, by calling (231) 873-2129 or emailing ability to confidently explain why they placed horses in wassonj3@msu.edu.

Students receive hands-on lessons at FARM Science Program

Donated goat raises $714 for Oceana Fair bathroom project By Jennifer Payne Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator Lillian Wasson’s donated market goat, Boots, made a big impact at this year’s 155th Oceana County Fair. Boots weighed in at 102 pounds and was auctioned at the conclusion of the 4-H Large Market Auction for $7 per pound, raising $714 to support the

Oceana Agricultural Society’s bathroom improvement fund. Hidden Electric of Hart purchased Boots and supported Lillian’s effort to give back to the fairgrounds. The proceeds from the sale will be held by the Oceana Community Foundation until they are needed for the ongoing bathroom improvement project.

Hart Dental

This week, students from Shelby Elementary School learned more about how their food is raised when they visited the Michigan Farm Bureau Food, Agriculture & Resources in Motion (FARM) Science Program. Equipped with the latest teaching technologies and STEM-based lessons to increase agricultural awareness, the mobile classroom brought hands-on, field trip-type learning directly to Shelby students. The FARM Science Program is facilitated by regional educators who’ve been trained on the current Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), who aim to expand participants’ horizons regarding science and agriculture. Students learned more about careers in agriculture and sci-

ence through experiential lessons, helping them understand how agriculture impacts their daily lives so they grow into informed consumers. “Agriculture affects all our lives every day, but many people don’t understand how healthy, nutritious food arrives on their tables; how fiber is produced to clothe them, or how agriculture products provide shelter,” said first grade teacher Kristen Bisard. “Michigan’s food and farm sector produces more than 300 commodities and generates more than $100 billion in economic activity annually. Not only is agriculture important to students personally, but it is also vital to our state and national economy.” The FARM Science Program has visited more than 800 schools

in Michigan since fall of 2017, impacting more than 118,490 students and 5,035 educators. The program is facilitated by regional educators who aim to expand the horizons of students regarding science and agriculture. Stemming from an idea proposed by county Farm Bureau members, the FARM Science Lab was made possible by the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture. This FARM Science Lab was brought to life by the generous donations of our Farm Bureau members, 26 county Farm Bureaus, agricultural commodity organizations and other corporate sponsors. Teachers or school districts can learn more about how to book a lesson by visiting miagclassroom.org.

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12 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

DHD#10 and NMPHA recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month

OCSO appreciates new drone By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent The Oceana County Sheriff's Office was pleased to demonstrate its new drone for the public at a special press conference at the Oceana County Service Building, Thursday, Oct. 8. The Skydio X10 drone purchased earlier this year cost just over $31,000 and has been in use since July. Funds were made available through the generous giving of many individuals, families including the Tim Tate Estate, and local organizations, the Oceana Community Foundation and Women Who Care. Sheriff Craig Mast explained that drones are being used nationwide to assist with all types of calls for service. After extensive research, the department decided on the Skydio, a drone that is manufactured in the U.S., which Mast said was very important to the department. Mast wished to especially thank his administration, Deputy Dale Thompson and Mason County Sheriff Department for their help in “...getting this drone in the air, literally.” “It’s been an awesome tool (already) even for just routine calls where you wouldn't think of it. It's come in very, very handy for us,” Deputy Brendan Nienhuis said. The drone is capable of carrying lightweight equipment and supplies like a life vest, medications or other items to people who are out of reach. The drone also has a camera and comes equipped with thermal imaging capabilities, Mast explained. Prior to having the drone, the department had to rely on other law enforcement partners for this type of work, Mast said. “Now we can do some of our own work and help other agencies if they need it.” Its capabilities are yet to be fully realized, but Mast sees the potential of it being a huge safety benefit. “We can search areas (and) we don't have to put our deputies at risk. We could have the drone come in and search, find a heat signature, and know if somebody's there or if they're not there. It's a way of protecting our people, our staff, (and) our community,” Mast added. According to Mast, the drone has been called up 32 times since July to help in different investigations, crime scenes, accident scenes, missing persons and water emergencies. “There's a long list of things that the drone gets called out for. So it's really quite exciting that we've got a resource like this here in Oceana County. We had a little bit to do with it, but the community had a lot to do with it,” Mast said. “I really want to say thank you to my staff. They make me look good. They do a lot of the hard work behind the scenes. I've got a lot of really good (people) and it's a pleasure for me to have the opportunity to thank (them) all and to show the good work that they're doing in the community.”

Hart Gun Show Oct. 17, 2026 9AM to 3PM West Michigan Masonic Center 2661 N. Oceana Dr. 50/50 Drawing Lunch on Premises Adult Admission $5.00

District Health Department #10 (DHD#10), along with the Northern Michigan Public Health Alliance (NMPHA), is recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month by encouraging residents to seek preventative healthcare practices such as routine mammograms. DHD#10 and the NMPHA want to empower women to get screened for both breast and cervical cancer by promoting the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BC3NP). BC3NP is designed to help eligible residents receive breast and cervical cancer screenings (mammograms and pap tests), and follow-up care, if needed. “BC3NP is available for women ages 21-64,” said DHD#10 Community Health Program Supervisor Caitlin Cameron. “If a breast and/or cervical anomaly is identified from the screening, then she would be referred to a community healthcare provider for follow-up. The best part is that under BC3NP, over 75 different diagnostic services are provided free of cost for the patient.” BC3NP not only helps with screenings, but also helps women in the event of a breast or cervical cancer diagnosis as part of the program. If a woman is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through the BC3NP, she could also be eligible to sign up for a special Medicaid pro-

gram that will help pay for cancer treatments. Once treatment is no longer needed, she may still be eligible for continued, annual screenings through BC3NP.

To see if you meet income eligibility requirements for the BC3NP program, please visit: https://www.michigan. gov/mdhhs/keep-mihealthy/chronicdiseas-

es/cancer/bc3np. To schedule a breast or cervical screening with DHD#10, or for more information on screenings or BC3NP, please call 888-217-3904.

“Advanced Eyecare For Your Entire Family”

Michael E. Jonassen, O.D. Craig J. Rybarz, O.D. 231-873-2575 www.oceanaeyecare.com • 44 State St. • Downtown Hart Accepting New Patients

CITY OF HART, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED ZONING MAP AMENDMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Hart Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 4:00 PM, in the Hart City Hall Council Chambers, 407 S. State Street, Hart, Michigan 49420. The purpose of the public hearing is to consider a rezoning request submitted by Elevate Oceana for the following property: Property Address: 301 S. State Street, Hart, MI 49420 Parcel Number: 64-020-721-003-50 Current Zoning: A - Residential Proposed Zoning: B-2 - General Business The Planning Commission will consider the proposed zoning map amendment and receive public comments regarding the request. Public comments may be made at the hearing. Written comments will be accepted prior to the hearing at kswihart@cityofhart.org or City of Hart, 407 S. State St., Hart, MI 49420. City of Hart Clerk/Treasurer’s Office 407 S. State Street Hart, MI 49420

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting October 05, 2026 Regular meeting called to order at 6:00pm Present: Scott Meyers, Becky Griffin, Cathy Anderson, Scott Beishuizen Absent: Richard Raffaelli Items approved: • Minutes from Board Meeting 09/08/2026 • Approved Resolution 261005-1 (ShelbyBenona Fire Department 2027 Budget) • Approved Resolution 261005-2 (Cleaning Technician for Township Hall) • Bills approved for payment in the amount of $226,857.08 Meeting adjourned at 6:41 pm Copies of meeting minutes are available from the Township and approved minutes are on our website www.shelbytownshipoceana.com

THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 13

NOTICE GENERAL ELECTION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026

TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE COUNTY OF OCEANA, STATE OF MICHIGAN NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a General Election will be held in the County of Oceana, State of Michigan, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING CANDIDATES TO VARIOUS OFFICES AND TO VOTE ON VARIOUS PROPOSALS: STATE CONGRESSIONAL LEGISLATIVE STATE BOARDS OF EDUCATION COUNTY TOWNSHIP JUDICIAL VILLAGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE CITY SCHOOLS

Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General US Senator, Representative in Congress – 2nd Dist. State Senator – 32nd Dist., State Representative – 101st Dist. & 102nd Dist. State Board of Ed, Regent of Univ. of Michigan, Trustee of Michigan State Univ., Governor of Wayne State Univ. County Commissioner – Dist. 2, County Road Commissioner Clerk, Trustees Supreme Court, Court of Appeals – 3rd District, 51st Circuit Judge, 79th District Judge President, Trustees West Shore Community College Trustees Hart Mayor, Hart City Council Members School Board Candidates

THE FOLLOWING JURISDICTIONS WILL ALSO HAVE PROPOSALS TO BE VOTED ON:

STATE OF MICHIGAN

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP HART CITY

2026-01: A proposal to convene a constitutional convention for the purpose of drafting a general revision of the state constitution. 2026-02: A proposed initiated law to prohibit campaign contributions from certain regulated utilities and government contractors and apply campaign finance laws and regulations to additional types of political communications. Fire Operating Millage, Fire Equipment Millage, Road Millage Fire Protection Millage Public Safety Millage

(The full proposal language for the above proposals can be obtained from the Oceana County Clerk or at the website of the Oceana County Clerk at https://oceana.mi.us/departments/county-clerk/elections/upcoming-election-information/) TO REQUEST AN ABSENTEE BALLOT, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TOWNSHIP/CITY CLERK The Polls of said election will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. of said day of election at the following locations: BENONA

Margie Shaw, 7169 W Baker Rd, Shelby, MI 49455 • (231)861-2154

CLAYBANKS

Mark Kutches, 7577 W Cleveland Rd, New Era, MI 49446 • (231)742-3470

COLFAX

Joni Gerard, 5594 N 192nd Ave, Walkerville, MI 49459 • (231)301-5685

CRYSTAL

Debra Gustafson, 1499 E Hammett Rd, Hart, MI 49420 • (231)425-6818

ELBRIDGE

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

FERRY

Chris Ernst, 3222 Green St, Shelby, MI 49455 • (231)571-8712

GOLDEN

Rachel Iteen, 5527 Fox Rd, Mears, MI 49436, • (231)873-4413

GRANT

Carol M. Sisson, 7140 S Oceana Dr, Rothbury, MI 49452 • (231)893-6336

GREENWOOD

Linda Hunt, 5589 S 200th Ave, Hesperia, MI 49421 • (231)742-0876

HART

Steven Freed, 3437 W Polk Rd, Hart, MI 49420 • (231)873-2734

LEAVITT

Naomi Oomen, 144 S Hamon St, Walkerville, MI 49459 • (231)329-5490

NEWFIELD

Nancy Conley, 3890 198th Ave, Hesperia, MI 49421 • (231)854-4702

OTTO

Pat Budde, 5458 S 128th Ave, Rothbury, MI 49452 • (231)861-5342

PENTWATER

Maureen Murphy, 500 N Hancock St, Pentwater, MI 49449 • (231)869-6231 EXT. 227

SHELBY

Cathy Anderson, 204 N Michigan Ave, Shelby, MI 49455 • (231)861-5853

WEARE

Debra Gustafson, 6506 N Oceana Drive, Hart, MI 49420 • (231)425-6818

CITY OF HART

Karla Swihart, 407 State St, Hart, MI 49420 • (231)873-2488

NOTICE TO THE VOTERS OF OCEANA COUNTY: Notice is hereby given that Public Accuracy Testing for the November 3, 2026 General Election is scheduled as follows: BENONA TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

5:00 p.m.

Township Hall

CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

3:15 p.m.

Township Hall

COLFAX TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

9:00 a.m.

Township Hall

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

12:30 p.m.

Township Hall

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

6:00 p.m.

Township Hall

FERRY TOWNSHIP

Thursday, October 29

6:00 p.m.

Township Hall

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Wednesday, October 21

9:30 a.m.

Township Hall

GRANT TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

10:30 a.m.

Township Hall

GREENWOOD TOWNSHIP

Thursday, October 29

4:30 p.m.

Township Hall

HART TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

12:15 p.m.

Township Hall

LEAVITT TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

10:00 a.m.

Township Hall

NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

1:00 p.m.

Township Hall

OTTO TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

6:00 p.m.

Township Hall

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Tuesday, October 27

9:30 a.m.

Township Hall

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

2:30 p.m.

Township Hall

WEARE TOWNSHIP

Monday, October 26

3:30 p.m.

Township Hall

CITY OF HART

Thursday, October 22

1:00 p.m.

City Hall

EARLY VOTING SITE

Friday, October 16

4:00 p.m.

Hart Community Center

Michigan Election Law requires that a public accuracy test of the electronic tabulating equipment be conducted to demonstrate to the public that votes cast will be accurately counted for all offices and proposals. (MCL 168.798) Melanie A. Coon Oceana County Clerk

9 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 14

Echo SPORTS THE

Soccer Standings Hart: 10-4-4 (5-2-3, 3rd WMC) Shelby: 9-9-1 (5-4-1, 7th WMC) Pentwater: 4-10

Hart • Hesperia • Pentwater • Shelby • Walkerville

ECHO SPORTS

Tigers deliver happy homecoming with big win

Shelby romps over Muskegon Catholic; Henderson, Fessenden each over 100 yards rushing By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor The Oceana Echo's Amanda Dodge contributed to this story. Shelby was dominant on both sides of the ball Friday night, creating a happy homecoming for the Tigers in a 44-12 victory over Muskegon Catholic. The Tigers outgained the visiting Crusaders 431-151 and allowed only five first downs on defense all night, cruising to the win. Catholic did not make a single pass attempt in the game, and Shelby's dominance in time of possession was such that the Crusaders only ran 30 plays total. Tigers' coach Jacob Tumele said that his team did well to bounce back from holding penalties early in the game to keep the offense moving. "I'm really excited for our seniors that put a ton of time in," Tumele said. "The really big thing that I'm really excited about is, some of those holding penalties that got us behind the

chains, our kids responded. That's something where, from week one, our response would not be the greatest, but where we're at right now, we have the right mindset right now. We have the right response, and that's the most exciting thing." Shelby (3-4) quickly got its offense moving to start the game, getting in the end zone on two straight offensive possessions, both on the ground. Elijah Dashiell opened the scoring with an 11-yard touchdown run, and Jaylin Henderson went 16 yards to pay dirt on the Tigers' second drive. Henderson sparked that first drive with a 41-yard run. The Tigers got to the two-yard line after Muskegon Catholic jumped offsides on fourthand-1, then got in the end zone despite a holding penalty on first down. The second possession saw Brody Fessenden rip off a 36yard run and Henderson later found Dashell for a 30-yard pass to set up the touchdown. Henderson was efficient on his eight pass attempts,

Shelby's Brody Fessenden tries to fight past Orlando Sanchez of Muskegon Catholic during Friday's game at Shelby. Fessenden ran for a team-best 168 yards in Shelby's 44-12 win. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

completing five for 94 yards and a score. The senior quarterback also ran for 141 yards, and backfield partner Fessenden had a team-high 168, outgaining the Crusaders by himself. Fessenden got in the end zone twice, catching a short pass from Dashiell and bulling in for a two-yard score to keep the scoring going late in the game. Shelby's air attack, Tumele said, is vital to helping unlock Shelby's Jaylin Henderson winds up to throw a pass downfield during

game against Muskegon Catholic. Henderson threw for 94 Football results Friday's yards and a touchdown in Shelby's 44-12 win. continued on page 15 • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Pirates play complete match, down Whitehall By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor WHITEHALL — Hart's focus heading into Tuesday's match against West Michigan Conference Lakes foe Whitehall was clear: There are 15 matches left on the Pirates' schedule, and if they win them, they win the state championship. A lofty goal, to be sure, but if the Pirates don't meet it, Tuesday's relatively easy 25-13, 25-14, 25-19 win over the Vikings showed it won't be because they weren't locked in enough on the task at hand. "If we win 15 games, we win conference, we win districts, we win regionals, we win state," Hart coach Shawn Bectel said he told his players. "Can we do it or can't we? Obviously, they responded the way I want. I know that's a tall task, but that's what we always think towards. This week, we knew that we had to take care of tonight. We've got to take care of next week and then win three games at conference (and) we're conference champs, at least have a piece of it. We still have everything in front of us." The Pirates (22-12-3, 4-1 WMC Lakes) lost only to Fremont so far in league play, and would earn at least a share of the league title if they could

Hart's Reese Smith winds up for an attack as Delaney Kramer leaps to defend for Whitehall during Tuesday's match at Whitehall. Smith had 13 kills in the Pirates' Hart's Jenna Babbin fires an attack at Whitehall defenders Aaliyah Jamison (12) and 3-0 win. Rachel Szot during Tuesday's WMC Lakes match at Whitehall. The Pirates won, 3-0. • Andy Roberts/Echo

beat the Packers and win the Oct. 24 tournament, which Orchard View will host. Tuesday's was one of Hart's more efficient matches, as it hit for a .239 average as a team. Peyton Erickson and Reese Smith each had 13 kills to tie for the team lead, and Erickson hit for a .400 average. Erickson also had four blocks, and Grace Tucker and Calyn Eisenlohr kept Hart's offense running smoothly with a combined 35 assists. "Our middles played great tonight,"

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Bectel said. "They were hitting their corners, and they really set the tone. I thought our setters did a great job of getting them the ball. Our defense was right there, too." A big part of that defense is senior libero Alayna Schiller, who has been racking up massive dig numbers all season. She was everywhere again Tuesday, totaling 25 digs. Her back-row play helps set up the rest of the team. "For my money she's the best libero

in the state," Bectel said. "She probably leads the state in digs. There was one play, I think she had four digs in one play before a point was even scored. Teams can hit at us, but like I've said before, she's like a human cheat code. What do you do?" Schiller said her veteran teammates do a great job getting the offense going once she retrieves the ball. While she'll

Pirates keep rolling continued on page 15

10 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR 15 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

Pirates cross continues postseason push at Portage By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor In a preview of what promises to be a battle royale at the Division 3 state finals meet in November, Hart's boys team finished a close second to HanoverHorton Saturday in the Division 3 race at the massive Portage Invitational. The Pirates, ranked No. 3 in the state by MichiganCrossCountry.com, defeated No. 2 Lansing Catholic for the runner-up spot in the race behind topranked Hanover-Horton. The top three scores were 134, 146 and 174. Hart coach Calvin Ackley said 12 of the top 15 ranked teams in D-3 competed in the race, giving it a state finals feel. In all, 39 schools had team scores and 431 runners competed. The Pirates had three finishers in the

top 30 and three runners set personal best times. Silas Ackley led the team in 22nd place, finishing in a time of 16:25.2, and Timothy Wolff followed close behind in 23rd place (16:27.8). Trevor Vander Kodde finished 28th and set a new personal best time of 16:37.0. Owen VanderVlucht also set a PR of 16:41.5 and finished 36th. Hart's last three finishers came in consecutively: Alex Schiller in 39th (a personal best of 16:42.3), Carson Ackley in 40th (16:44.2) and Aiden Schaner in 41st (a personal best of 16:47.3). In a similarly competitive girls race, Hart placed eighth in a 36-team field. Natalie Rosema led the team with a 23rd-place finish and posted a time of 20:17.9. Alaina Schaner placed 31st (20:45.4) and Bryn Riley was 43rd (21:02.7). Luisa VanderZwaag was 55th (21:24.5) and Emma Miller placed 77th

(21:53.1) to close out the team scoring.

County runners compete at Baker Woods meet Runners from Hesperia, Pentwater and Walkerville competed in Friday's Baker Woods Late Season Invitational in Hesperia, taking on one of the more challenging courses in Michigan. Bailey Case was the top county finisher overall, finishing in seventh in the girls' race and cutting a minute and a half off her time from last year's meet at Hesperia. She finished in 23:51.5. Also for the Falcons, Lily Smith was 26th (27:57.1), Maggie Jorissen was 43rd (30:54.1) and Valerie Smith was 44th (30:59.7). Rokhaya Ruhstorfer led the Panthers with a 30th-place finish and a time of 28:38.1. Also finishing for Hesperia were Chloie Cryderman

(48th, 35:59.1), Taylor Leeball (50th, 42:06.4) and Sarah Funk (51st, 51:32.3). In the boys' race, Hesperia finished fifth out of the six scoring teams. Onyx Davila was the highest county finisher in the race, placing 12th for the Panthers with a time of 20:12.8. Drea Slosman took 33rd place (23:01.9) and Paul Winchel was 40th (23:54.7). Carter Fuentes set a personal best in his second varsity race and finished 56th (26:59.5), coming in just ahead of teammate Charles Shagonaby (26:59.9). Walkerville had three finishers, topped by Ethan Schamber in 23rd place (21:29.6). Easton Flanery finished 61st (27:53.2) and Easton Wolgamott was 72nd (33:17.1). Pentwater's two finishers were Tyler Zimmer in 27th (22:03.1) and Ben Roberson in 54th (25:20.1).

Football results

continued from page 14

the running game for its two senior standouts. "We were letting Jaylin be Jaylin and be able to throw the ball a little bit," Tumele said. "We have that ability to throw the ball and push the ball vertically downfield that teams do have to respect against us. When they try to load the box like Muskegon Catholic was doing and a lot of the teams we see do, we do have the ability to air the football out." Dashiell added 88 yards of offense - 62 receiving, 26 rushing - and Ashton Moore caught a 32-yard touchdown pass from Henderson. Tumele also credited tight end Peyton Brown with "unsung hero work" blocking, helping set up the rest of the team for success. On defense, Henderson led with five solo tackles, and Moore had four. Fessenden had two tackles for loss. The win set up Shelby for its annual rivalry showdown against Hart - a game that will take on even more significance this season, as it marks the final home game for the Pirates on their current field. Following the season, the school will begin work on an athletic complex renovation that will prevent Hart from playing a game at home in 2027. (Plans have not yet been announced for where the Pirates might play scheduled home games next season.)

The rivalry contest will not be a conference game for the first time since the West Michigan Conference was formed, as Hart is playing in the Lakes division and Shelby the Rivers, but that won't change the atmosphere around the matchup, Tumele said. "A lot of our kids know their kids and vice versa, so the energy will be high," Tumele said. "Our kids, they just get pumped up for that week. We have a great opportunity to go against a Hart Pirate team that other than last year, has really owned the (Blood, Sweat & Tears) Jug for about 5-6 years, I think, since Joe Tanis has been there as the head coach. We have a great opportunity to hold the Jug and keep it here in Shelby where it belongs."

Ludington too much for Pirates Hart didn't have much luck slowing down an imposing Ludington attack Friday night, dropping a 42-6 decision to the unbeaten West Michigan Conference Lakes champions. The Orioles piled up 429 offensive yards, 231 of them in the air, as they cruised to the win. Hart, meanwhile, managed 183 total yards, turning the ball over three times. Hart (2-5, 1-5 WMC Lakes) looked like it might get to the halftime locker

Pirates keep rolling often tell Eisenlohr or Tucker her idea of where to set the ball, often they're thinking the same way before she even does so. "A lot of the time they'll know exactly where to go," Schiller said. "I don't even have to tell them. I try to tell them where to place the ball, but they just know. It really helps when they just know and are really smart with their plays." As for what she does best on the floor, Schiller points to her role as an on-court leader more than any volleyball skill. "I think I'm a good encourager," Schiller said. "I feel like that's one of my strong suits, and I can never lose that because it's something I can control, so I try to do it every day." Bectel probably wouldn't argue with that, pointing to Schiller's approach to each day in practice and in matches as a huge asset of hers. "I think it's the whole package, to be honest," Bectel said. "If you're ever around her, she's a fun kid and she loves what she does. She works hard. I never have to get on her at practice. She keeps it light. You can joke

The ball comes loose as Shelby's Elijah Dashiell and Brody Fessenden try to make a play during Friday's game against Muskegon Catholic. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

room with a manageable deficit when Keaghan Monroe grabbed a 39-yard touchdown reception from Kolton Rockwell with 1:22 to go in the first half to make it 14-6. However, the Orioles' first two plays of the drive went for a total of 57 yards, and the third play ended with an unnecessary roughness penalty on the Pirates. That allowed Ludington to get another score on the board to make it 21-6. From there, the Orioles took over with three second-half touchdowns. Haegan Hansen had a good night on the ground for the Pirates, gaining 105 yards on 15 carries, and also caught two passes for 32 yards. Rockwell had 61 passing yards, including the touchdown. Hansen led the way on defense too,

with nine solo tackles, including one for a loss, and seven assists. Jordan Thies had six takedowns.

Hesperia falls at Ravenna Hesperia fell to West Michigan Conference Rivers co-leader Ravenna Friday night, 54-20, to drop to 1-6 on the season (0-4 WMC Rivers). The Panthers' Tucker Bolles threw two touchdown passes to Zach Loughridge and racked up a total of 265 yards through the air, with three touchdowns in all. Loughridge had 101 yards receiving and Tanner Tinkham had 95. On defense, Evan Conkle had another big statistical game with 14 tackles.

continued from page 14

around with her. But she has big dreams, and I think that she puts in that time. She lifts weights. She does the little things that other people are afraid to do." In addition to their offensive efficiency, the Pirates continued their excellent work at the service line, making only four errors. Several long serving runs during the match were instrumental in building leads, especially in games one and two. Game one saw the Pirates leading just 14-10 despite benefiting from several Whitehall errors before pulling away, and in game two, Schiller went on a five-point serving run to help the Pirates blow open a tie game. Calyn Eisenlohr later went on an even longer run, seven points, to lock up the game. Hart wasted no time in game three, scoring the first three points and never looking back. Whitehall made a brief push late in the game after Hart had built a huge lead, but it wasn't enough to stop the sweep. Bectel said the way his team approached Tuesday's match bodes well for its conference and postseason runs. That kind of mentality could bring a district title to Hart.

Hart's Grace Tucker lines up a set while Braelee Fogus guards against a potential attack during Tuesday's match at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Echo

"I thought we clicked in all facets of the game, so I was pretty excited for the kids," Bectel said. "Kudos to them. They came out, they knew what they wanted, and they took it."

Volume Issue 49 October October 16,2026 2026 OCTOBER 16,2026 2026 THEWHITE WHITE LAKEMIRROR MIRROR THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 16 3,3,Issue 49 16, 1 1Volume OCTOBER 16, THE LAKE Total Raised: $143,842 Lead this Legacy REFLECTIONSReflections OF OUR COMMUNITY Reflections ofour ourcommunity community of

White Lake Lake Mirror White Mirror YOUR LOCALLYOWNED OWNEDAND ANDOPERATED OPERATEDNONPROFIT NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE YOUR LOCALLY OWNED NEWS SOURCE YOUR LOCALLY AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

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Harringtonsaid saidTuesday By Andy Roberts Harrington said Tuesday that that the the Andy Roberts Harrington ByBy Andy Roberts company plans to White Lake Mirror Editor company plans submitananupdated updated White Lake Mirror Editor company plans toto submit White Lake Mirror Editor application within application within thenext nextcouple coupleofof within the M KG GO ON M ON N AG GU U EEapplication K EE G // M TT A MM UU SUKSS E O N /NM OO N TA G U E weeks, at which point weeks, at which point another hearing weeks, at which point another hearing —Geronimo GeronimoPower, Power, the the parent parent Geronimo Power, the parent —— will be scheduled. will be scheduled. will be scheduled. companyof of ofLakeside LakesideSolar, Solar,hosted hosted company Lakeside Solar, hosted company Theopen openhouse houseatat MCC The open house MCC was was an open house Tuesday at Muskegon The open house Tuesday Muskegon anan open house Tuesday at at Muskegon notably less attended notably less attended than previous notably less attended than previous CommunityCollege Collegeasas aspart partofof ofitsits its Community College part Community ones hosted at Montague ones hosted Montague HighSchool School hosted atat Montague High ongoing appeal to the Michigan Publicones ongoing appeal the Michigan Public ongoing appeal toto the Michigan Public in 2022 and NBC in 2022 and NBC Middle School in 2022 and NBC Middle School Services Commission to grantit ititthe the Services Commission grant the Services Commission toto grant in 2025, with in 2025, with some 15-20 people in 2025, with some 15-20 people abilityto to toconstruct constructa aasolar solarenergy energy ability construct solar energy ability collectinginformation. information.One collecting information. Oneofofthem them collecting facility in White River Township. facility White River Township. facility inin White River Township. MuskegonCounty Countyresidents residentstake takea alook lookatatthe theinformational informationalposters postersdisplayed displayedatat Muskegon Geronimorepresentative representativeKendra Kendra Geronimo representative Kendra Geronimo Tuesday's public open house at Muskegon Community College. The event was thethird third Tuesday's public open house at Muskegon Community College. The event was the Harrington said Muskegon County was Harrington said Muskegon County was Harrington said Muskegon County was such open house hosted by Geronimo Power since its solar energy facility project became such open house hosted by Geronimo Power since its solar energy facility project became determined to be part of the "affected determined part the "affected continued on page determined toto bebe part ofof the "affected continued page public 2022. • Andy • AndyRoberts/Mirror Roberts/Mirror continued onon page 7 7 public inin 2022.

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Sunshines shineson on30th 30thannual annualPumpkinfest Pumpkinfest Sun The 30th annual White Lake The 30th annual White Lake The 30th annual White Lake Pumpkinfest took place Pumpkinfest took took place place Pumpkinfest Saturday in Montague amid Saturday Montague amid Saturday inin Montague amid brightsun sunand andwarm warm bright sun and warm a aabright temperatures. The pumpkin temperatures. The pumpkin temperatures. The pumpkin roll was a highlight as roll was a highlight roll was a highlight asas always, and hundreds of always, and hundreds always, and hundreds ofof peopleexplored exploredactivities activities people explored activities people and local local craft craft booths booths on and and local craft booths onon Ferry and and Dowling Dowling streets. streets. Ferry Ferry and Dowling streets.

Andy Roberts/ Roberts/ Andy Roberts/ • •• Andy Mirror Photos Mirror Photos Mirror Photos

Whitehallauthorizes authorizesover over$4M $4Mfor forsignificant significantroad roadrepair repair Whitehall

installation of of storm storm drainage drainage roads roads represents represents a "long-term "long-term MuskegonAve., Ave., installation installation Muskegon Ave., represents a a"long-term of storm drainage roads Muskegon investment." and an update to the sewer andananupdate updatetotothe thesewer sewer investment." investment." LivingstonSt. St.toto to and Livingston St. Livingston Some of of the the project project system. Some system. system. Some of the project - be improved; Gee 1,300 feet of Livingston - may may The low bid, $3.844 million, be improved; Gee be improved; Gee 1,300feet feetofofLivingston Livingston- -may The low bid, $3.844 million, 1,300 The low bid, $3.844 million, Park to get new came from Jackson-Merkey be deferred to the 2027-28 Parktotoget getnew new came came from from Jackson-Merkey Jackson-Merkey bebedeferred deferredtotothe the2027-28 2027-28 Park fiscal year year ifif the the city city does does not not Contractors, aa MuskegonMuskegon- fiscal playground Contractors, playground Contractors, a Muskegon- fiscal year if the city does not playground based company that Whitehall get enough grant funding

get enough enough grant grant funding funding based company that Whitehall get based company that Whitehall to complete complete the the project project all all Department of of Public Public Works Works to Department Department of Public Works to complete the project all Director Don Bond said the at once, but Tavernier is White Lake Mirror Editor White Lake Mirror Editor DirectorDon DonBond Bondsaid saidthe the atat once, once, but but Tavernier Tavernier isis Director city has worked with before optimistic it will all be paid for The Whitehall City Council optimisticit itwill will all be paid for cityhas hasworked workedwith withbefore before optimistic The Whitehall City Council city The Whitehall City Council and produced produced good results. results. An An this this fiscal fiscal year. year. all be paid for unanimously approved and good unanimously approved and produced10% good unanimously approved The year. council council also additional of results. that low lowAn bid this fiscal another sizable sizable road road repair additional 10% of that bid The also another repair The council also additional 10% of that low bid another sizable road repair was added to the approval as unanimously approved project at its regular meeting A rendering of the Gee Park playground equipment to be installed by unanimously approved approved a aa A wasadded addedtotothe theapproval approvalasas unanimously projectat atitsitsregular regularmeeting meeting was project renderingofofthe theGee GeePark Parkplayground playgroundequipment equipmenttotobebeinstalled installedbyby quote of $120,295 from MidMid- A Mid-States a contingency in case of cost rendering Tuesday, continuing a recent Construction, as provided by the company. The Whitehall a contingency in case of cost quote of $120,295 from Tuesday, continuing a recent a contingency in case of cost quote of $120,295 from MidTuesday, continuing a recent Mid-States Construction, as provided by the company. The Whitehall Construction, as provided overruns. States Construction, Construction, based based in in Mid-States focus on on improving improving the the city's city's overruns. City Council approved the purchaseby of the the company. equipmentThe at Whitehall its Tuesday States focus overruns. States Construction, based in City Council approved the purchase of the equipment at its Tuesday focus on improving the city's Council •approved theof purchase the equipment at its Tuesday "This project project represents represents Pataskala, Pataskala,Ohio, Ohio,for forthe thedelivery delivery City roads. meeting. Courtesy City of ofofWhitehall Whitehall "This roads. meeting. • •Courtesy Courtesy ofCity City Pataskala, Ohio, for the delivery "This project represents roads. meeting. of of Whitehall exactly what we've been and installation of a large set Tuesday's approval exactly installation ofa alarge largeset set approved what we've we've been been andinstallation Tuesday was car the Equinox is replacing, so Tuesday's approval exactly Tuesday's approval approved Tuesday Tuesday was was car carthe theEquinox Equinoxisisreplacing, replacing,soso of playground ofequipment at approved workingwhat toward - addressing and authorized up to $4.228 working toward addressing of playground equipment at $31,969 to purchase a 2027 the city will not have to spend authorized up to $4.228 playground equipment atto $31,969 to purchase a 2027 the - addressing authorized $4.228 working citywill willnot nothave havetotospend spend aging toward infrastructure in a ofGee Park. The city has a goal million to up do ato large-scale the city $31,969 to purchase a 2027 Gee Park. The city hasa agoal goal to Chevrolet Equinox from Wyatt any additional money to make aging infrastructure infrastructure in a a Gee millionto tododoa alarge-scale large-scale aging Park. The has million ChevroletEquinox Equinoxfrom fromWyatt Wyatt any anyadditional additionalmoney moneytotomake make onecity public park to per Chevrolet coordinated matter in instead improve improvement to Muskegon coordinated matter instead improve improveone onepublic publicpark parkper per Chevrolet in Whitehall as a the car road-ready. improvement toto Muskegon Muskegon coordinated matter improvement ChevroletininWhitehall Whitehallasasa a the thecar carroad-ready. road-ready. of repeatedly tearinginstead up the year, and after surveying city Chevrolet Avenue and Livingston Street of repeatedlytearing tearingupupthe the year,and and aftersurveying surveyingcity city new police admin car. The city The council fielded an Avenue and LivingstonStreet Street repeatedly Avenue newpolice policeadmin admincar. car.The Thecity city The council council fielded an an residentsafter for ideas to improve same streets," City Manager year, that, and in Livingston addition to roadofsame new The residents for ideas to improve streets," City Manager found a need to replace the update from Jim fielded "The Shark" that, in addition to road Manager for ideas to improve that, in will addition to roadthesame updatefrom fromJim Jim"The "TheShark" Shark" founda aneed needtotoreplace replacethe the update Dan streets," TavernierCity said prior to residents the park, the decision was found repair, also include DanTavernier Tavernier saidprior prior to the thepark, park,the thedecision decisionwas was car, and the bid came in just Dreyer on the combat veterans repair,will willalso alsoinclude includethe the Dan repair, car,and andthe the bidcame cameininjust just Dreyer Dreyeron onthe thecombat combatveterans veterans to go forward with the car, the approval,said adding to that made replacement of a water main, the approval, adding that made to go forward with the over $3,000 bid under budget. The replacement of a water main, to go forward with the approval, replacement a water main, thewhile over$3,000 $3,000under underbudget. budget.The The the cost adding is high, that doing made new playground. the removalofand replacement over new playground. whilethe the costis ishigh, high, doing new police department will reuse removal and replacement while playground. thethe and replacement policedepartment departmentwill willreuse reuse The third expenditure police so muchcost work at oncedoing on the ofremoval lead water service lines, the so continued on page 2 much work at once on the The third expenditure the materials that outfitted the of lead water service lines, the The third expenditure of lead water service lines, the so much work at once on the continuedon onpage page22 thematerials materialsthat thatoutfitted outfittedthe the continued the

By Andy Andy Roberts Roberts By By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Roadproject project Road project Road

17 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO

THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR OCTOBER 16, 2026 2

Montague school board praises Walk-About return By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor MONTAGUE — The Montague School Board and other school personnel praised Friday evening's return of the Wildcat WalkAbout at its regular meeting Monday night. According to superintendent Jeffrey Johnson, three dozen groups or businesses were part of the event, which took place prior to the football game outside of the athletic complex. The Walk-About was previously an annual event, and a push to bring it back resulted in what several, including Johnson, said was a more successful event than they'd anticipated. Dozens of students and residents were part of the activities. Johnson praised the many people who worked to bring the WalkAbout back. The board meeting featured a brief rundown of the district's annual audit by Vredeveld Haefner. Mike Vredeveld reported that the audit was quick and easy due to the work put in by district finance director Stacey Brown. Vredeveld did note that the district used about 18.7 of its fund balance due to a budget deficit in 2025-26. Johnson said the district will work to be more creative in finding ways to not operate at a deficit, or

certainly as large of one, in the future, though because of rising prices and the small size of the Montague district, it is a challenging process. One thing that will slightly aid the district in the budgeting process is the move to a threeyear average enrollment figure to determine state funding. As Montague has seen a decrease in enrollment in the district over the past few years, the prorated figures will help fill in some budgeting gaps. The district has anticipated the slight decrease in enrollment year over year as last year's graduating class was larger than the incoming kindergarten class. However, on count day, the district did total 1,222 students, which while a decrease of 22 was also seven more than the district had budgeted for. Montague FFA student leaders Willa Van Loon (the chapter's president and District 2 vice president this year) and Sam Scheffler gave a presentation of the organization's activities over the past year, including Montague's third-place finish in the state competition last school year and the group's annual Harvest Day and Animal Day events at Oehrli Elementary School. A total of 45 Montague FFA students competed at the state level last

A photo op welcomed Montague Area Childhood Center students to the Wildcat Walk-About Friday.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

year. The board approved by a 6-0 vote (Karen Neubauer was absent) a measure to continue its contract with the City of Montague and White River Township to collect the district's property tax revenue from those municipalities in the summer rather than the winter, which is when the revenues are normally collected. The deal costs the district $5,000 per year but generates, Johnson said, $3.2 million in cash flow for the district from July-October, which allows the district not to need to borrow as much money to keep things running in that span. The board also approved a measure to cast its votes at the Michigan Association of School Boards' annual Delegate Assembly, slated for Thursday, Oct. 15 in Lansing. Neubauer previously

The Montague Wildcat mascot was one of many to enjoy Wildcat WalkAbout activities Friday evening prior to the home football game. The previously annual event made a return this year, and the Montague School Board was pleased with the results.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

confirmed her attendance at the meeting to represent Montague. The Montague board discussed four new and substituted resolutions on this year's agenda and confirmed that it agreed with MASB recommendations on each one. The four recommendations MASB made and will vote on are: Opposing any potential legislation that would require school board candidates to run on a partisan platform; opposing the use of testing results as the primary criterion to determine student promotion, school funding or teacher/administrator evaluations; opposing any

Oct. 24 public reception, Road project artist talk will cap Visual Language exhibit Artists who participated in this fall's Visual Language exhibition at the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center, as well as juror Annamarie Buller, will be part of a free public reception and artist talk Saturday, Oct. 24 highlighting the exhibition. The exhibition began Tuesday, Sept. 8 and will continue through the Oct. 24 reception, which will take place from 1-3 p.m. All the art for this exhibit employs text, language, words or poetry with the artists creatively incorporating it boldly, quietly or somewhere inbetween. Buller had the challenging job of reviewing the online applications of 51 regional artists submitting 81 works of art. Her review also involved reading all the artists’ statements which were part of their applications. After careful deliberation of the submissions a vision emerged for the overall look of the exhibit, Buller selected 25 works of art by 21 artists. Viewing the artwork in person also helped her to determine which artists would receive awards. The $200 prize for Outstanding Media & Message went to Wendy Withrow of Grand Rapids for her skillfully handcrafted accordion fold book entitled, 100 Days: The Persistent Undoing of Us. An Honorable Mention award went to Sarah Lynn B. (Boersen) from Grand Rapids for her video and linocut print entitled, Antiperfect. And H.J.

A free public reception and artist talk will take place Saturday, Oct. 24 to cap the ACWL-Nuveen's Visual Language exhibit. Works like this one, Mass Produced Feeling by Tia Wierenga, are part of the exhibit.

• Courtesy of ACWL-Nuveen

Slider, from Caledonia, also received an Honorable Mention for their assembled sculpture entitled, Yes: In My Backyard. The event will include a lively conversation about the meaningful use of language in visual art starting at 1:30 p.m. And as always, the ACWLNuveen will be serving snacks and beverages. Everyone is welcome. Any questions about the event? Call the ACWL-Nuveen at 231-893-2524, or email nuveen@artswhitelake.org.

memorial he raised awareness for by completing a memorable 22-mile swim into White Lake in August. Dreyer selected Whitehall over other coastal municipalities in Michigan for the memorial and said the greeting he received when he swam into the Whitehall marina during the Maritime Festival reinforced that decision. "For both myself and the team, the greeting I received when I swam into Whitehall pulling those cannonballs is something we will never forget," Dreyer said. The 250 cannonballs Dreyer towed on that marathon swim are being stored in Whitehall while funds are raised for the memorial. He said the White Lake VFW is acting as fiduciary for the project and is working this week to open a bank account to store the money. Once open, Dreyer said a website is ready to launch and begin collecting donations. The final design and scope of the memorial has not yet been finalized, though he did receive a quote from a sculptor named Ken Thompson, a Michigan-based sculptor who was recommended to him by people at Grand Valley State University when its art department was involved in this project in its early stages. Dreyer's original concept was for a pyramidshaped sculpture, but he said he has since gravitated to another idea - the construction of a berm with a spiral clockwise walkway going to the top of a structure, perhaps 10 feet high, with the cannonballs placed along the walkway. A plaque with a QR code so visitors could learn more about

potential legislation that mandates use of school safety/ security funds for specific purposes; and opposing any potential legislation that mandates seat belts on school buses while requesting that the state fund employee training and safety inspections for buses. The board also approved two overnight athletic trips and the eighth-grade trip to Chicago that will take place later this school year. It was noted that students will have to make a small deposit to go on the trip and that they will have to meet certain disciplinary standards to be eligible as well as be in good academic standing.

continued from page 1

the combat veteran for which each cannonball was donated could be part of the design. While Dreyer said a design will obviously have to be finalized soon enough, he said his focus for now is on fundraising and he, along with the city council, will determine the final design once funds are on hand. "I'd rather do it right than do it fast," Dreyer said. Dreyer added that ideally he would love the memorial to be ready for a groundbreaking early next spring, though obviously a lot of boxes have to be checked first. Mayor Tom Ziemer and council member Bryan Mahan praised Dreyer's work on the project and the event that was his arrival at the end of his 22-mile swim. Also during the meeting, the council approved a transition to the West Michigan Health Insurance Pool, a public employer pooled plan that provides self-funded health insurance coverage. Treasurer Crystal Budde brought the idea over from the Village of Shelby, where she previously worked, and found that making the switch, which will take effect Jan. 1, would maintain competitive health insurance coverage for city employees while saving the city over $52,000 annually. The council also approved minor adjustments to the city's compensation plan, putting sick and paid time off (PTO) days into a single PTO bank, which is permissible under state law if the resulting PTO bank is no less generous than it was before.

3 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 18

Community Calendar Saturday, Oct. 17 Montague Farmer's Market is open, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Acoustic Library Jam @ Montague Bandshell, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join fellow local musicians for an informal, acoustic jam session. White Lake Knitting Club meets @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 1 p.m. Medicine Men perform @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m. The AcoustiCats perform @ Wayside Bar and Grill, 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18 Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. White Lake Ukulele Club meets @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19 Community Health Worker Dropin Assistance @ White Lake Community Library, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Looking for help with everyday challenges? Get connected with medical providers, food assistance programs, and more. Confidential help offered at no cost. White Lake Community Library welcomes knitters and crocheters for a weekly gathering, 3 p.m. Cookbook Club meets @ White

Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Fetch Brewing Running Group meets at 6 p.m. All are welcome to participate at their own pace and distance. Strollers also welcome. Tuesday, Oct. 20 Baby Time @ White Lake Commnuity Library, 9:30 a.m. Bring your kids 2 and under for early literacy skills, listening and joyful interaction through play. Older siblings also welcome. Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. GriefShare group meets @ White Lake UMC in Montague, 1-2:30 p.m. Those grieving a loss are welcome to attend. Child care is available if needed. Wednesday, Oct. 21 Family Storytime @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Children of all ages and their caregivers invited to join for stories, songs, music, and movement that support early literacy and language development. Eric Michaels & Chris Kennedy perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 11:30 a.m. Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nu-

veen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in projects you’re working on or start something new with help from staff. Maker's Market @ Healthy Roots, 3-7 p.m. Farm produce, home baked goods and more. Camera Obscura @ MADL Montgaue, 4 p.m. Learn the basics of how cameras work in this fun educational workshop. Registration required @ madl.org. Autumn Book Talk @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 5:30 p.m. Sally Whitbeck discusses her book Pass the Kava: Reflections of a Sailing Circumnavigator. The Oat Bran Boys perform @ North Grove Brewers, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 Toddler Storytime @ MADL Montague, 11 a.m. Toddlers ages 2-3 invited for books, fingerplays, music, movement, and other activities. Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or explore available supplies in the classroom. Grow Into a Good Citizen @ MADL Montague, 4 p.m. Discuss

what it means to be a good citizen and plant herb seeds to take home. Registration required @ madl.org. 1-2-3 Play with Me @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Designed for caregivers and children 5 years and under. Early childhood specialist available to answer questions. Registration encouraged @ wlclib.org. Fetch Cycling Group meets at 6 p.m. All skill levels welcome. Friday, Oct. 23 Play and Learn @ White Lake Commuity Library, 9:30 a.m. Children ages 5 and under and their caregivers invited to join for stories, songs, rhymes, movement, and play that build early literacy skills. Mahjong at the Library @ White Lake Community Library, 10 a.m. Beginners and experienced players welcome - bring your own sets if you like. Afternoon Hang @ White Lake Community Library, 2 p.m. Tweens 10 and up are invited to play video games, do crafts, eat snacks or just hang out.

Echoes of History: History Flower Creek Mills (Part 4) By Tom Eitniear

Volunteer Contributor Parts 1-3 of this article ran in the Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 9 issues of the Mirror. On April 19, 1886, William Banks transferred the $3,000 mortgage to his youngest sibling, Henry Clay Banks, for past and future care of their aged mother who had become widowed in 1877. This transfer still containing the legal description error, was not made known to the Haehnels. Jane Ann Banks passed away sometime around 1886 or 1887. In 1888, William Banks was visiting family in Illinois when he met their domestic servant, Rosina Smith. Rosina had just immigrated to Illinois from England and William took a fancy to her. He proposed marriage to Rosina, and she accepted. The 52-year-old William took his 24-year-old bride back to Michigan. As far as Charles Haehnel was concerned, he owned the grist mill, sawmill, dam, farmhouse, and 60-acre farmstead. He operated the mills and was thriving as best he could, investing time, effort, and resources into improvements of the grist mill. In 1889 he built a lime

kiln and burned limestone to create nearly 60 barrels of quicklime, a key ingredient of mortar, and employed a crew to build a stone basement under the grist mill. This action showed that the grist mill was originally built without a stone foundation. By October 1890, Charles Haehnel had the grist mill functioning at peak performance. Many people came from all directions to utilize the mill due to the favorable reputation it had developed as well as the quality product it produced. People traveled from surrounding areas such as Montague, New Era, Whitehall, Shelby, Ravenna, and Grand Haven to have their grain ground into flour. Boys relished the task of taking grain to the mill for their fathers, as it allowed them an opportunity to fish the mill pond while they waited upon completion of the milling job. During the winter when the ice was thick on the mill pond, many people would cut the ice into blocks and store it for summer, using the copious amounts of sawdust from the sawmill for insulation. The mill business was operating quite successfully but in 1893 Charles Haehnel had challenging financial issues to deal with, particularly two other mortgages,

one in the amount of $1,000 held by the Cook estate, the other in the amount of $1,500 held in the name of Porter Plaisted, of which $250 remained. He still had the $3,000 mortgage that he erroneously believed William Banks held, so he developed a proposal to alleviate some of the mortgage burden. He proposed to William Banks that he would pay off the mortgage held by the Porter Plaisted estate; he would deed ½ interest of his property to William Banks; that William Banks would discharge the $3,000 mortgage with $500 interest; that he and William Banks would enter into a co-partnership to improve the grist mill; and that he and William Banks would share equally in expenses and profits. The proposal was verbally agreed to by William Banks in June 1893 with full knowledge that he did not have any legal interest in the property. Charles Haehnel procured a discharge of the mortgage held by the Porter Plaisted estate, and efforts were undertaken to improve the grist mill by employing a man to tear out the machinery in the mill. Additionally, Banks and Haehnel traveled to Chicago to order roller process machinery for installation in the grist mill.

Thank you to all the Friends of the Library! By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor It’s National Friends of the Library Week, and we want to take advantage of this opportunity to recognize the amazing people who show up for our library every day - not just by visiting, but by volunteering, advocating, fundraising, spreading awareness, and connecting with the community. Our wonDeMumbrum derful Friends of White Lake Community Library help us with our book sales, host fundraisers, and support library staff with occasional treats, among many other things. Without them, we wouldn’t have the library you know and love today. So thank you, Friends! There isn’t room to list everyone by name, but

I want to recognize the current officers of the group - President Ashley Spencer, Vice President Jenna Brown, Secretary Sue Prosch, and Treasurer Doug Prosch. They - and all the Friends - are doing great work on behalf of the library, and we are so grateful to all of them. One more quick shout-out to Wayne and Marla Thuma, who, along with the Prosches, held officer positions for several years and were crucial to keeping the group going through the pandemic. If you would like more information or would like to join the Friends group yourself, please visit our website at wlclib.org/friends-of-the-library. And the Winners Are…! Congratulations to the winners of the 29th Annual Manhattan Short Film Festival, selected by audiences around the world! The Gold Medal went to Life Goes On, a U.K. film that also earned David Bradley a Best Actor award. The silver medal went to When the Sea Was Calm, a Georgian

film, and the bronze to Never Give Up!, a film from Hungary and Mexico. There were nearly 30 people who came to the library to watch the films in late September. Thank you to everyone who joined us and cast a vote! It was a great lineup of short films, and the local audience favorite was Never Give Up! We look forward to hosting this event again next year, maybe even at the Playhouse! FUN FACT: The Manhattan Short Film Festival began in 1998 when founder Nicholas Mason projected 16 short films onto the side of a truck on Mulberry Street in NYC. It has since grown to more than 500 venues on six continents! It has no corporate sponsors, relying instead on independent cinemas and community libraries. Life After the Holocaust Learn about the effects the Holocaust caused long after the end of WWII at White Lake Community Library Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 5:30 p.m. In this program presented by The Zekelman Holocaust Center, we’ll hear about survivors who had to find

The

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ways to cope with their experiences and rebuild their lives and families. Using artifacts and testimony from survivors in our Michigan community, we’ll get a glimpse of the ongoing process of returning to life after the Holocaust and learn more about survivor experiences after liberation, including life in Displaced Persons (DP) camps and life-long efforts to persevere and to remember. Registration appreciated at wlclib. org/calendar.

19 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE OCEANA ECHO THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR OCTOBER 16, 2026 4

MIRROR SPORTS • montague • Reeths-PUffer • Whitehall •

Soccer Standings Whitehall: 8-7 (6-4, T-5th WMC) Montague: 10-6 (6-4, 5th WMC) R-P: 8-7-4 (4-5-1, T-4th O-K Green)

'Cats can't sustain great start, fall to N. Muskegon Cole Moss scores 3 TDs in 35-20 defeat By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor MONTAGUE — Montague got off to a dream start Friday night against North Muskegon. A big kickoff return, a couple of big runs and a touchdown by Cole Moss put the Wildcats ahead, and visions of a huge win and a boost to the team's playoff chances were no doubt dancing in the heads of many watching. However, that vision never came to fruition, as the Norsemen converted on a couple of massive plays late in the first half to take the lead, and they never gave it back, dealing the Wildcats a 35-20 defeat. The pivotal drive came late in the second quarter. With the game tied at 7, Montague's defense - and some penalty issues - put North Muskegon into second-and-15, fourth-and-13 and second-and-18. The Norsemen wriggled out of trouble every time, the last coming on a 23-yard lob to the end zone by quarterback Teddy Lamiman that was somehow pulled in for a touchdown by Carlton Williams despite his being blanketed by Levi Auger and Moss in coverage. The air seemed to come out of the Wildcats (2-5) after that, and a team that coach Phil Koops has consistently praised for their refusal to roll over did not seem to play with the same level of

Montague's Cole Moss gets loose from North Muskegon's Tobin Jones during Friday's game at Montague. Moss had three touchdowns in the Wildcats' 35-20 loss. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

urgency from then on. Koops pointed to a drive in the final minute of the first half, in which Montague was unable to get any points out of an Evan Francis interception, as an example. "There was just no sense of urgency out of some of our guys," Koops said. "Before halftime, it's a minute and something left in the half...and we're wandering and waddling up to the ball. I'm frustrated. The kids are frustrated. Everybody's frustrated. This is not how you draw it up. This is not what we wanted." It didn't help that North Muskegon's Cullen Bartos was an unstoppable force. The Norsemen's star senior offensive weapon sliced

Montague's Levi Auger (1) knocks the ball loose from a North Muskegon receiver during Friday's game at Montague. The Wildcats lost, 35-20. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Gavyn Maddox tries to fight for more yardage as North Muskegon's Jace Wildcat defeat Montague's Thompson arrives for a hit during Friday's game at Montague. The Wildcats lost, 35-20. continued on page 5

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Vikes swept by Hart, continue trusting process By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor WHITEHALL — Whitehall continues to work on getting better and maintaining a positive atmosphere amid a trying season on the scoreboard, and the Vikings saw gains in both respects in a West Michigan Conference Lakes loss to Hart Tuesday, 25-13, 25-14, 25-19. "Right now, it's just that systematically, we've got a couple too many things going on," Whitehall coach Claire McGrew said. "We've got to execute the actual kill to get a point. Now we have to work on our first contact. The girls... have been understanding that. We're going to see it on film tomorrow and get some good feedback about that, and then keep moving on up." Things got off to an uneven start for Whitehall, which committed some early errors to help boost Hart to an early game one lead. The Vikings hung around for most of the game and trailed 14-10 at one point before the Pirates, who

Hart's Jenna Babbin (9) and Reese Smith leap to block an attack by Whitehall's Clare Westerlund (7) and Allie Fagan try to defend an attack Whitehall's Delaney Kramer during Tuesday's match at Whitehall. The by Hart's Braelynn Talmadge during Tuesday's match at Whitehall. The Vikings lost to Hart, 3-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Pirates won, 3-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

currently sit second in the WMC Lakes, took over and pulled away. Game two played out similarly, with the game tied at 9 until a serving run by the Pirates gave them a comfortable lead. The Vikings still managed to get back within four points at 18-14 before Hart ripped off the final seven points of the game.

The Vikings (3-19-1, 2-4 WMC Lakes) again fought back in game three after Hart raced to a 10-3 lead. Whitehall got as close as three points down the stretch, at 16-13, but again could not get over the hump. It was the errors that drew McGrew's attention as well, but she praised her team's focus on the

process, smiling that she felt vindicated in her attention to that area after watching a recent documentary about legendary Alabama football coach Nick Saban; Saban was famous in coaching circles for his constant focus on the process. "It's just trying to focus on that and getting the girls to buy into that," McGrew said.

"That's the goal. 'Whatever my task at hand is, I'm going to do that to the best of my ability.'" One thing Whitehall did fairly well was avoid service errors, making only three in the match. They had five aces as a team, coming from five different players.

Vikes drop match continued on page 5

20 OCTOBER16, 16,2026 2026 THE THEWHITE OCEANA ECHO 5 OCTOBER LAKE MIRROR

Vikes suffer heartbreaking loss to Oakridge By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor Whitehall's chances at a late run at the postseason took a heartbreaking hit Friday night, as the Vikings gave up a touchdown in the final minute against West Michigan Conference Lakes foe Oakridge and lost the game, 22-16. Eagles' tailback Taiden Patton ran in a short scoring run with 32 seconds to play, one play after Oakridge hit a 55yard pass from Alijah LaNore to Patton that got the Eagles to the two-yard line. The difference in the game, said coach Tony Sigmon, was clearly the Vikings' three turnovers to the Eagles' one. Oakridge's one giveaway, a fumble, was immediately followed by Whitehall (2-5, 2-3 WMC Lakes) fumbling the ball

back. "Turnovers killed us offensively," Sigmon said. "Defensively we thought we played really well at times, but we had some miscues that cost us the game. "It really boils down to that. It's not something we have to think hard on in terms of why the game went the way it did. It's just circling back to turnovers and miscues at the wrong time. Any time is the wrong time, but it felt like it was the absolute worst times here tonight." The most damaging giveaway was probably the last one, which took place inside the Oakridge 15-yard line at the end of a 14-play drive - all runs by either Liam Leeke or Wyatt McFarren - to start

the third quarter. The Vikings, who led 8-7 at the time, fumbled the ball away on the 14th play. Oakridge later scored, but Whitehall did take the lead again in the fourth quarter on a three-yard touchdown run by Leeke. A 21-yard completion from Brayden Brown to KeAndre Maybanks was a key play on that drive. Whitehall had a chance to run out the clock when it forced a three-andout on the Eagles' ensuing possession, but couldn't get a first down and had to kick it back to Oakridge. Sigmon said the Viking defense played well much of the game, but Oakridge did a good job keeping them off balance in the passing game down the stretch.

"They hit some plays in the secondary when we were playing aggressively against the run," Sigmon said. "They hit a couple really crucial passes on drag routes and on the seams. It was a lot about timing tonight." The hope is that the Vikings can turn things around in two home games, against Ludington and Reeths-Puffer. "We've been pretty good at home this year," Sigmon said. "We finish the season with two home games, and hopefully our kids can finish the season strong." Leeke had 159 yards rushing for Whitehall, and Brown threw for 76 yards. Maybanks led the defense with six solo tackles, and Leeke recovered a fumble on defense.

Rockets come up just short against FHN By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor A key miscue at the worst time doomed Reeths-Puffer Friday night against Forest Hills Northern, costing the Rockets a chance at overtime in a 21-19 O-K Green Conference decision. R-P converted the tying two-point conversion with 4:52 to go in the game, but was called for ineligible player downfield on the play. A second opportunity came up short. The Rockets (3-4, 1-3 O-K Green) were never able to get the ball back as the Huskies ran out the clock from there. The pivotal penalty was just one of

several miscues that reared their head for R-P, said coach Cody Kater. "Someone told me, and I may be exaggerating, that it was 17 penalties (on us) to four," Kater said. "We also gave them some good field position on some other penalties that happened after the whistle. It felt like an uphill battle the entire night. "We knew we had to win this game. We felt like we had a strong game plan and we knew that it would be a tight game. We knew we had to play well in all phases of the game." For the most part, that happened; R-P didn't turn the ball over and had some success moving the ball while limiting the Huskies on defense. But

Vikes drop match Aaliyah Jamison led the Whitehall defense with 19 digs and Maggy Michaelson added 11. Peyton Schultz passed out 15 assists, and Delaney Kramer had a team-high six kills. McGrew said the team continues to be positive in practice, putting in the work necessary to improve. While no

one is waving the white flag on the Vikings' 2026 season yet, there's also optimism that the younger players who will be back next fall are building the foundation for future success. "They're buying into the process," McGrew said. "They're buying into the program. They're willing to be a part of it. They're

Wildcat defeat and diced the Montague defense all night, doing a credible imitation of Moss, who usually plays that role against other teams. He scored three touchdowns, including a 25-yard run and a 56-yard reception, and had huge plays on both of the drives that ended with other players in the end zone. His total yardage for the game was 252 - 146 rushing and 106 receiving. (Moss was hardly a slouch himself, scoring all three Montague touchdowns and gaining 120 yards, including some big gains at key moments.) "No. 6, holy smokes," Koops said. "There were some things where there's nothing there, and he puts his foot in the ground and goes the other way. That's as laterally good, outside of number zero, Cole Moss, that I've seen...I don't get to vote for him, but I would jump up and down until all of the (WMC) Rivers coaches decide to vote for that kid for all-conference. He's really something." The Wildcats struggled with penalties all night. Three of them were what prevented Montague from scoring off the Francis pick. North Muskegon then took the first drive of the third quarter straight down the field - Bartos had two big runs - and scored on an easy touchdown throw to Beckett Hoppa.

untimely errors - like a punt attempt that went nowhere and resulted in FHN getting the ball on the Rockets' two-yard line - kept popping up. "We're frustrated on our end trying to figure out how to beat this case, what feels like a disease, of these (mistakes)," Kater said. "We just have to find a way to coach through it, and our kids have to take ownership of improving their game." Dre Sanders led the Rockets with 94 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Jamichael Williams had 67 yards receiving. Braylon Swain threw for 159 yards and a touchdown. "Jamichael Williams played well as a receiver," Kater said. "He had

some big plays throughout the night, especially in the first half, that lit a fire under the team." The Rockets now must win both their remaining games to make the playoffs, a preseason goal of the team's. They would likely need some help from other results to gain playoff points as well. "We have to pick up the pieces now and in a way to execute starting at Monday's practice," Kater said. "We want to finish out on a strong note and overcome the adversity and stay in the fight. That's what we're thinking about going forward."

continued from page 4

willing to do whatever it takes. Even if I put them up here in a new spot, I might have to explain it to them, but as soon as they get the explanation, they're like, 'Alright. Let's go.' That's all I can really ask of them. Whatever they're doing Whitehall's Rachel Szot (9) and Aaliyah Jamison try to stop a Hart attack during Tuesday's match in Whitehall. in that moment, they're going to • Andy Roberts/Mirror try their best."

Sports in Brief Boys Soccer Caledonia 4 Reeths-Puffer 1

continued from page 4

Montague did twice battle back to get back within one possession - Moss had a 30-yard scoring run on a fourth-and-2 and then scored again in the fourth quarter on a short run - but Bartos answered each of those with quick touchdowns. Whatever led to the struggles in Friday's game, Koops said the Wildcats will aim to fix it. They Moss have no other choice; they face Fremont and Ravenna, both high-achieving teams, to finish the season, and almost certainly have to win both to entertain playoff dreams. "We've got six seniors that we really like, and I want to coach those guys as long as I can," Koops said. "Who wouldn't want to coach Cole Moss and (Chase Kurtzhal)? They're good kids. Kian Peters, man, does he play hard. He was not a problem with the effort. He plays his heart out. "It's never as good as you think and never as bad as you think. We'll go watch the film, we'll coach them up and try to play better at home next week against Fremont. That's all we can do."

Antonio Nelson-Lee scored the Rockets' only goal. R-P closed conference play on a 4-game losing skid against high-quality opponents.

Reeths-Puffer 2 Spring Lake 2 R-P closed regular season play with a deadlock against local rival Spring Lake. Statistics were not reported.

Montague 3 Grant 2 Isaiah King had 2 goals for the Wildcats and Mason Anderson scored once as Montague ended its regular season with a win.

Reeths-Puffer 6 Greenville 1 Matthew Hansen led an impressive Rocket attack with 2 goals, and 4 other players scored once each. R-P advanced to face Ludington in the district semifinals Monday in Sparta.

Volleyball Montague 0-2 at Kent City Tri The Wildcats lost a close match to Kent City, 17-25, 25-15, 25-21, and were swept by Manton, 25-10, 25-15. Statistics were not reported.

Whitehall 0-2 at Spring Lake Double Dual Whitehall lost to the Lakers 25-16, 25-16, 25-18 as part of a tri meet and also fell to Coopersville. Statistics were not reported.

Caledonia 3 Reeths-Puffer 0 R-P serving specialist Elsie Howard ripped off 6 aces, but the Rockets couldn't quite match the Scots' firepower, losing 25-17, 25-19, 25-17. Kate Tindall recorded 15 assists, and Leah Zuniga had 12 digs.

Reeths-Puffer 3 Muskegon 0 It was another serving party for R-P, as the Rockets romped 25-12, 25-5, 25-4. Lexie Danz had 8 aces on the night, and Wren Tryska and Leah Zuniga had 6 each. Danz and Peyton Radel each had 5 kills.

Ludington 3 Montague 0 Montague fell to one of the WMC Lakes contenders, 25-18, 25-21, 25-17. Ava Dean and Annelyse Schneider each had 10 digs. Kaitlyn Leatherman scored 11 service points, including 3 aces, and Ellee Smith posted 4 kills.

THE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR OCTOBER16, 16,2026 2026 21 6

Jazwinski's latest record comes at Portage By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor It was yet another record-setting day for Whitehall senior Bobby Jazwinski Saturday at the Portage Invitational, as he broke the meet record with a time of 14:23.3, winning the Division 2 race of nearly 300 runners by over a minute. Jazwinski's performance not only set the meet record, it did so by a healthy margin. The previous mark of 14:37 was set by Benzie Central's fourtime state champion runner Hunter Jones in 2022. The Viking boys placed 13th out of 44 scoring schools in the meet. Rex

Pumford was the next Whitehall runner after Jazwinski to finish, coming in with a 28th-place time of 16:24.2. Ian Dennis finished in 17:40.7, placing 105th, and Scout Freiheit took Jazwinski 130th place in a time of 18:04.1. Alex Winczewski closed the scoring with a 184th-place finish (18:53.3). Whitehall's girls team could not score in the race. Gabrielle Chevez led

the Vikings, placing 76th with a time of 20:57.7. Reese Hesse was 152nd (22:35.1) and Kassie Sapp placed 184th (23:04.6). Ryanne Ellsworth finished 227th and ran a season best time (24:03.8). Montague competed in the Division 3 race, placing 15th out of 39 scoring teams in the boys' event as four of its five scorers set new personal best times. The Wildcats' top two runners, Nolan Kessler and Wesley Mair, were two of those PR runners. Kessler finished in 13th place (16:13.2) and Mair was 18th (16:19.9) in a field of 431 runners. Jonathan Mueller also set a personal best time and finished

in 111th place (18:12.1). Brock Hunter finished 162nd (18:54.6) and Carson Jasick set a personal best time of 19:06.4 to finish 179th. The Wildcat girls finished 36th as a team, and all five of their finishers set season best times, with the top four earning PRs. Brightyn Minchak led the way, coming in 177th place with a time of 23:58.9. Amelia Liskey was 246th (25:33.7) and Gemma Lorson was 274th (26:15.3). Closing it out for the 'Cats were Peyton Sweet (305th, 27:36.0) and Willa Van Loon (348th, 30:17.8).

Local tennis squads end seasons at regional meet By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor Whitehall ended its season by hosting the Division 4 regional meet Friday, scoring six points and finishing in sixth place. Four Viking flights won a match apiece to score those points, including each of the top flights at singles and doubles, and two others scored a point by advancing by default. Wyatt Burger scored a first-round win in straight sets to advance to take on No. 2 seed Levi Adema of Calvin Christian in round two. Burger played well against Adema and extended the match to a tiebreaker

in the second set, but fell short 6-2, 7-6(3). The Vikes' top doubles pair, Remington Whelpley/Lukas McKee, romped to a 6-0, 6-0 win in round one before falling to No. 3 seed Gavin Cohoon/Ethan Blough of Ludington in the second round. No. 3 singles player Jones McDowell came the closest of any Viking flight to reaching the regional semifinal. After an easy win in the first round, McDowell snagged the first set against No. 3 seed Andy McGivney of Grand Rapids Catholic Central, but McGivney rallied to win 3-6, 6-2, 6-4. Scout Freiheit advanced to the second round by default at No. 4 singles

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries Steven Lewis Hoffman Aug. 27, 1943 ~ Oct. 1, 2026

It is with deep sadness that the family of Steven Lewis Hoffman, age 83, announces his passing on October 1, 2026. Steve was born on August 27, 1943, in Shelby, Michigan, to Ellen Stevens and Lewis Hoffman. He lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, friendship, and love for his family. Steve proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where he worked as an electrician. Following his military service, he continued his trade as a Union Electrician, building a respected career that spanned many years until his retirement. His strong work ethic, reliability, and craftsmanship left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him. Outside of work, Steve found great joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved to fish and enjoyed hunting, gardening, and canning the harvest from his garden. He took pride in crafting his own beer and wine and loved sharing both with friends while enjoying good conversation and laughter. One of his favorite pastimes was playing cribbage with his good friend, George, creating many fond memories over the years. Steve was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Hoffman, and by his parents, Ellen Stevens and Lewis Hoffman. Steve leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory forever, including his daughter, JoAnn Armstrong; his grandchildren, Clint (Jeanette) Clark, Tara (Steve) Rosander, Brianna (Ryan) Friend, Kaylee Hoffman, Cameron Hoffman, and Sierra (Max) Mickelson; and his great-grandchildren, Adam, Kayla, Haley, Monica, Tristan, Faith, Kieran, Onyx, Olivia, Ellouise, and Huk. Steve will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his generous spirit, his sense of humor, and his ability to find happiness in the company of friends and loved ones. His legacy lives on through the family he loved and the countless lives he touched throughout his 83 years. Though Steve has left this world, the memories he created and the lessons he shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. "Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and forever dear." A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at the American Legion, 803 E. Colby St., Whitehall, Michigan.

before being eliminated by GRCC's Paul Huynh, the No. 2 seed. In doubles play, Jonathan Roberge/ Jack Koegel won a first-round match at the No. 2 flight and were competitive against Ludington's Hudson Borema/ Sam Reisterer in round two before falling short, 6-3, 6-3. No. 3 doubles pair Tanner Osmun/Liam Nicholas advanced by default before bowing out to Ludington's Patrick Hart/Owen Henke 6-1, 6-3. No. 4 doubles pair Barrett Chapman/Alden Johnsen received a first-round bye and lost to Grand Rapids West Catholic's No. 4 seeded pair Grant Truszkowski/Caleb Ophoff in the second round.

Rockets' Ketner scores team's lone regional point Reeths-Puffer picked up one point in Friday's Division 2 regional meet hosted by Forest Hills Northern to cap its 2026 season. The Rockets' top singles player, Henrik Ketner, scored a point, winning by straight sets in a first-round matchup. He was eliminated by top seed Reid Hackney of Mona Shores in the second round. Each Rocket flight was eliminated in straight sets, except for No. 4 doubles pair Gavin Willi/Brayden Witham, which exited by medical default.

Book Nook fall author series will cap season with Sally Whitbeck

On Wednesday, Oct. 21 at Montague’s Book Nook and Java Shop, Montague resident Sally Whitbeck will talk about her unforgettable experiences aboard a 37foot sailboat she and her husband sailed around the globe for four years. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with an informal meet and greet with Whitbeck prior to the presentation at 6. W h i t b e c k ’ s compelling story-telling style will bring to life how the couple overcame language barriers,

received warm welcomes from complete strangers, learned ancient customs and made forever-friends while harbored in small ports and remote villages largely untouched by the outside world. Whitbeck chronicled the first year of their expedition in her newlyreleased memoir Pass the Kava, Reflections of a Sailing Circumnavigator. The evening is free and open to everyone. Reservations are not needed. The authors’ books are available to purchase

at the Book Nook. This event is the last in the fall series of author visits sponsored by the Friends of the Montague Library and hosted at the Book Nook and Java Shop on Ferry Street in Montague.

White Lake University Women's scholarship applications open The Community Foundation for Muskegon County announces that the White Lake University Women’s (WLUW) Scholarship is taking applications for the 2027-28 school year. This scholarship is for female students enrolled in a program pursuing any degree at any college, university, or vocational/technical school. Students must be out of high school a minimum of two years and/ or have a gap in post-secondary education, with a 2.5 GPA. Students

must be residents of the greater White Lake area (Montague, Whitehall, Holton and Reeths-Puffer school districts) and demonstrate financial need. Applications are submitted online through the Community Foundation’s website, www.muskegonfoundation. org/scholarships. White Lake University Women is a service organization that promotes lifelong learning and encourages continued education.

7 OCTOBER 16, 2026 THE WHITE LAKE MIRRORTHE OCEANA ECHO OCTOBER 16, 2026 22

Recent local police activity Behind the

Badge Whitehall Police Report Oct. 9 At 4:40 p.m., officers responded to the 900 block of Benston Rd. on a malicious destruction of property complaint. The reporting party indicated that her mailbox had been smashed the previous night. It appeared the mailbox had been hit by a car, and the complainant found pieces of a car mirror nearby. No suspects have been identified in the case. Oct. 10 At 7:45 p.m., officers were on patrol on Lake Street north of White Lake Drive. As they approached the Mill Pond Road intersection, they took notice of a motorcycle that was traveling at high speeds in their direction. A reading of 51 miles per hour was recorded, and attempts to make a traffic stop were initiated. The motorcycle continued on Shore Drive and increased its speed. The motorcycle later passed a

car in a no passing zone and fled when police turned their sirens on. Police believed the motorcycle was traveling at over 90 miles per hour, and due to the speed and curving roads, the pursuit was terminated. No suspects have been identified in the case. Oct. 11 At approximately 7:46 p.m., officers were called to the 400 block of Peach St. by a neighbor who said they heard screaming and a possible argument. Upon arrival, officers located the homeowner in the garage and noted that there was a half-consumed liquor bottle on site. The homeowner was cordial and invited the officers in. Officers did not see signs of an argument and it appeared the subject was simply listening to music in his garage space. At 8 p.m., officers were called to the 1100 block of E Colby St. on a suspicious occurrence with possible mental health issues. Officers made contact with the complainant, who stated that the day before she thought she'd heard a male groaning outside her apartment. She also reporting hearing a female voice making comments of which she was unsure of the intent. Officers did not locate any additional information and did not see any subjects in the area. No previous complaints from the area were on file. Oct. 13 At approximately 8:39 a.m., officers were called to the 1200 block of E Colby St. on a possible fraud complaint.

White River Twp. continued from page 1

was Montague resident Bill Tarr, whose primary residence is in the City of Montague but who also owns property in White River Township, in the area where the facility would be constructed. Tarr said the two-acre piece of property he owns in the township is not developed at the moment and that he and members of his family primarily use it for "peace and quiet." He asked a Geronimo representative about the effects of fencing and sight lines on surrounding property owners during the meeting. Tarr expressed concerns about aesthetics and the long-term impact of the facility, similar to concerns levied by others since the project first became public in 2022. He said his belief is that the company is working to get approval for the project prior to the November elections, as depending on the outcome it's possible the composition of the MPSC, which is appointed by the governor, may change in a way the company would not prefer. During Wednesday's township board meeting, which was delayed by a day due to the Lakeside Solar event, the board approved an ordinance governing agritourism, farm markets and event barns in the township. The planning commission has worked on the ordinance since earlier this year, having previously installed a brief moratorium on the topic

The reporting party , a manager for a set of area apartments, indicated that one of their tenants had attempted to pay their rent via Western Union and it had been denied for possible fraud. The transaction occurred at the Whitehall Twp. Walmart. Upon follow-up, officers found that the issue revolved around the bank not accepting the payment due to potential fraud. Officers made contact with the original reporting party and advised them to contact their bank so the bank can accept the transaction. At approximately 11:20 p.m., officers were called to the 1600 block of S Mears Ave. regarding an unwanted guest. The reporting party, a female subject, stated she'd picked up a male friend to come over and hang out. While they were together, a disagreement occurred and both parties left separately. The male later returned, and the female called to report that he'd broken in to the house despite being previously invited. Arrangements were made for the male half to receive a courtesy ride back to where he was staying in Muskegon Twp.

11:14 p.m., medical assist, 8600 block of Cook St. Oct. 9 9:09 a.m., other investigation, Montague PD 12:05 p.m., disturbance, Water and Dowling streets 3:07 p.m., minor in possession, Montague High School Oct. 10 3:43 p.m., traffic obstruction, Industrial Park Road and Cook Street 9:22 p.m., harassment report, 4900 block of Onsikamme St. Oct. 11 7:48 p.m., assist to Whitehall PD, unknown problem, 400 block of Peach St. Oct. 12 7:35 p.m., Assist to Whitehall PD, suicidal subject, 200 block of N Elizabeth St. 9:27 p.m., vehicle accident, no injuries, Water and Dowling streets Oct. 13 11:54 a.m., vehicle accident, no injuries, Dowling and Park Streets 4:46 p.m., suspicious vehicle, 7900 block of Cook St. 5:53 p.m., medical assist, 8300 block of Cook St. 6:22 p.m., barking dog complaint, Montague Police Report 9000 block of Dicey St. 11:26 p.m., assist to Whitehall PD, Oct. 7 1:14 p.m., other investigation, Mon- 1600 block of Mears Ave. tague PD 5:13 p.m., medical assist, 8300 block of Cook St.

until one could be approved. The vote for the ordinance was 4-1, with Laura Anderson dissenting. Anderson said her dissent was largely based on the 40-acre minimum the ordinance installs on potential agritourism or event sites, saying properties slightly smaller than that would likely be able to bring agritourism to the township. A public commenter, Denise Eilers, also expressed reservations about that provision. Trustee Deb Harris said she viewed the 40-acre minimum as a positive and said that amount of space was necessary to accommodate crowds such as come to events hosted by large barns. Clerk Julie Goericke was less committal on the matter but said properties slightly under the 40-acre minimum could apply to the Zoning Board of Appeals for an exception. Deputy Water Resources Drain Commissioner Dallas Goldberg presented to the board regarding two maintenance projects that took place at Pierson Drain this year. One was unscheduled and forced onto the drain commission due to this spring's heavy rain event that took place. The commission installed a regional detention to redirect water from the northeast region of Pierson Drain in hopes of limiting the impact of future events. A regularly scheduled project cleared debris south of the Hancock Street bridge, near Old Channel Trail Golf Course. Pierson is inspected annually, Goldberg said, to ensure the water there is flowing properly. The total cost of the two projects was over $30,000. Goldberg was asked about the use of controlled

Muskegon County Deputy Water Resources Drain Commissioner Dallas Goldberg presented information on two projects the commission completed at the Pierson Drain during Tuesday's White River Twp. board meeting.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

burns to clear brush and keep the growth of debris from becoming an issue in grass waterways. He described the burns as the most cost-effective solutions to the issue, but in the past couple of years the Department of Natural Resources has not granted burn permits. The board discussed a potential road paving project on Lau Road. No action was taken as Supervisor Ron Bailey has not yet received a quote on the cost. Bailey said he learned that adding a few feet to the road to create a bike lane and accommodate pedestrian traffic would potentially triple the cost due to the need to move trees and do ditch work to allow for the addition. The board will revisit the topic when it has a more solid idea of the costs involved.

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