The Oceana Echo - Volume 4, Issue 6, July 3, 2026 by theoceanaecho

America 250: OCH&GS receives Never Forget Garden

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

A very special veterans memorial garden was recently installed at the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society’s (OCH&GS) headquarters located at the corner of Lincoln and Dryden Streets in downtown Hart. The new “Never Forget” Garden was a gift to the community from the Michigan Dunes Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) as one way for their organization to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary.

“The idea was originally presented by the DAR’s America 250 Committee, and chapter members were eager to participate. After exploring possible locations, chapter members felt the OCH&GS's Chadwick-Munger House would provide a meaningful and beautiful backdrop to hon-

or and memorialize those who served our county,” Michigan Dunes NSDAR Regent Laurel Sawyer said.

The garden, one of hundreds across the United States, is part of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Never Forget Garden initiative that was first started in 2018 by the Society for the Honor Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to commemorate the Tomb's Centennial in 2021.

Since that time, the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Never Forget Garden” initiative has encouraged communities to plant gardens as a visual representation of America’s commitment to the sacred duty of recognizing, remembering and honoring our veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country, especially those who are “missing” or “unknown."

“These gardens also serve as a reminder to all who have served that we will ‘never forget — I am in it with you,’” said Sawyer. “A special marker placed in

the garden represents a mutual pledge to support our veterans with ‘our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor,’ words drawn from the Declaration of Independence and tied to America’s enduring responsibility to never forget.”

Not only is each flowering plant and shrub planted in the garden beautiful in its own right, but each carries a special meaning evoking remembrance, honor, and sacredness, Sawyer said. The backdrop to

the garden plaque is the white rose, representing reverence, purity of remembrance, honor and enduring love. In the garden, it offers a peaceful and sacred reminder that the sacrifices of our veterans, known and unknown, will always be remembered.

Other flowers and shrubs chosen for the garden include boxwood symbolizing enduring memory; hydrangeas representing heartfelt emotion and gratitude; pink carnations remembering a mother’s love; peonies picturing honor and bravery; and lavender portraying devotion and trust, among many others.

The garden is designed to be a solemn place of remembrance, a site of renewal, and an inspiration for future generations to honor service. The Michigan Dunes NSDAR hopes that as this special garden grows, it will remind the community to honor the past and keep the memory of our vet-

erans alive for generations to come.

The OCH&GS Board of Directors wishes to extend their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Michigan Dunes NSDAR for selecting their headquarters as the location for this very special installation. “We invite the community to stop by any time to enjoy the new Never Forget garden located on the south side of the building. OCH&GS is fortunate to have three longstanding members, Sharon Hedinger, Nancy Rakosky and Joan Wegner, who are also longtime members of the Michigan Dunes DAR. Their involvement in both organizations adds a lot of value to our Society and to the entire community,” said OCH&GS Board President Paul Erickson.

To learn more about the activities and initiatives the Michigan Dunes NSDAR is involved in, or to inquire about membership, please visit www.dunes. michdar.net.

America 250 : Celebrating July 4 – A Neighborhood Tradition for 20 Years

By AnnaMae Bush

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

A story in Good Housekeeping magazine twenty years ago about a small neighborhood holiday parade inspired Debbie Heidel to initiate a similar tradition for July 4 in her Pentwater neighborhood. “I thought it sounded like fun,” she said.

What she and her husband Mark started with just two families marching a couple of blocks on Rutledge Street has thrived. Today this neighborhood parade begins at the corner of 5th Street and South Rutledge, continues south to Park Street, turns to Hancock Street, goes north to the marina and then returns to 5th and Rutledge.

“We begin to gather at 10:15 a.m. and start walking our route at 10:30 a.m. We recite the Pledge of Allegiance and appoint a flag bearer to lead the group. Our number of participants grows, collecting neighbors as we go,” Heidel reported. “We have perhaps 90 people by the time we finish. Then we have a hot dog roast hosted at our house and across the street at Bill and Louise Huntoon’s house. The merchants on Hancock Street are always kind and supportive as we crowd the sidewalks in front of

their stores. We are usually done with lunch at 12:30 p.m.”

The Heidels came from Flint, and the Huntoons are from Grand Ledge, and they have friends from both areas who join the parade. The friends usually come from their campsites at Charles Mears State Park or Hill & Hollow Campground to participate. Asked what the group does as they march, Heidel chuckled and replied, “We wave flags and cheer. We call out ‘Happy birthday, America.’ We play some recorded music. We shout ‘Happy 4th of July’ to neighbors, and the kids throw candy to children we pass on our way. We smile and laugh and make happy noise. Downtown sometimes people respond by honking their horns or waving back at us.”

By simply using the sidewalk, the group needs no permits for blocking roads. Even though families with

young children participate, decorating and riding bikes has not been part of the tradition. Heidel shared, “With many of us in our 60s and older, walking is the safest mode for us.”

Recent newcomers were delighted to discover the neighborhood tradition last July 4. Fred and Donna DeGraaf enthused, “We saw all these folks walking by who invited us to join them. How many places can you live where a friendly neighborhood tradition like this exists?”

A Special Reason to Celebrate

By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Heidel family has another special reason to celebrate America's 250th birthday because of the opportunities America gave both sets of their parents (Harold and Emma Sack, and Conrad and Katherine Heidel) and their grandparents (Alex and Amalia Miller, and Conrad and Elizabeth Heidel). Debbie Heidel shares, “Both my husband and I had German parents and grandparents. My husband and I are 100% German, and so are our two children. My mother’s parents were sent to Russia and escaped out of communist Russia around 1921 via a horse-drawn wagon. They entered the United States through Ellis Island. My father’s family came in through Baltimore.”

She continued, “They left their families in Russia to pursue a better life for their children and for the freedom to worship as they wanted. They were considered Volga Germans from Russia because their community in Russia was along the Volga River.”

Living in America was her grandparents’ dream. They made their first home in Wisconsin, where a family sponsored them. After a start in agriculture, they moved to the Flint area, where a large contingent of Volga Germans had settled and

worked for General Motors.

Deb said, “Our grandparents had known each other in Russia and met again in Flint where they started a church. Flint was where Mark and I eventually met.”

Deb asserted, “No one was prouder to be an American than my maternal grandfather! He even wrote a book about it, describing their escape from Russia and their travels…My mother was their first child born in the USA…He was my hero.”

The Heidels’ son is in the military and could not be with them for July 4 last year, but he is coming this year and joining them for the neighborhood parade. His 6-month-old son Alex will be the youngest parade participant. All this adds joy to the family’s celebration of America's 250th.

The Mark and Debbie Heidel family

Program partners boost Pentwater Hart Trail to next phase

By AnnaMae Bush

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

On Saturday, June 27, at the 8th Annual Tacos & Trek for Trail, Claudia Ressel-Hodan, board chair for Friends of the Pentwater Hart Trail, had big news to share. “I am happy to announce that recent funding has made it possible for us to begin construction of Phase 2 next spring.”

She reported that a recent grant of $888,861 was given to the City of Hart from the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration's Safe Routes to School Grant program. Matching funds of $307,397 from the Friends of the Pentwater Hart Trail, taken from the Hansen state appropriation grant, covered the full cost of Phase 2 of the Pentwater Hart Trail.

This is a milestone to celebrate on the long journey of seeing this project through. Efforts to connect Pentwater to the Hart Montague Bike Trail began in 2015. Paved shoulders leaving Pentwater (Phase 1) were completed in 2019, using funds from the state appropriation grant of $1.4 million that former Senator Goeff Hansen secured for infrastructure costs. In addition to paying for Phase 1, it has also been used for surveying, engineering and the recent matching funds needed for Phase 2. The remaining funds are available for use with Phase 3.

The third phase of the project takes the Trail a distance of 5.2 miles from the corner of Tyler Road and 72nd Avenue (where Safe Routes to School ends), north to Longbridge Road, and over Pentwater River to Monroe Road. This phase will cost approximately $6 million. Ressel-Hodan said, “I am deeply grateful to John Wilson, who has been handling all the grant-seeking proposals to fund the Pentwater Hart Trail, including helping the City of Hart with their grant proposal. He has done a great job and will now begin looking for Phase 3 funding.”

This year’s Tacos and Trek for Trail event had 74 registered participants who biked, ran or walked 3

miles on a marked route through the village. Event proceeds augment the maintenance fund, required by funders to sustain the project once it is completed. Each registrant received an event tee shirt and two tickets for tacos to use after crossing the finish line. With a donation, non-participants could purchase

tacos as well, served by volunteers in the pavilion on the Village Green. Event publicity and the registration table were also handled by volunteers. ResselHodan affirmed, “This is a very giving community, and the Pentwater Hart Trail could not happen without all the support the community provides.”

This page is brought to you by:

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

Postcards from the Past: Hart! I think I’ll buy it!

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Great news! I was successful in compelling my best friend Clara to visit Michigan for a refreshing reprieve from the Atlanta, Georgia heat. Theoretically. And because Miss Clara is just as much of a nerd as I am, you best believe we are spending her vacation traipsing through cemeteries, looking for rocks on the beach, and visiting the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society. This past Wednesday, while at the Chadwick-Munger House, we flipped through the oft-visited collection of postcards to find an example to transcribe for you all this week.

She chose an example from Hart, since 1) we were in Hart and 2) it’s where I grew up and she might as well pick the town she’s heard the most about. She was immediately drawn to the example that day because of the message, front and center and in your face. The photo side of the postcard is one-third an actual photoa little snapshot of a wooded

trail leading to a pond - with the remaining two-thirds dedicated to a caption reading “I Like the Town of - HART - Think I’ll Buy it For You.” The word “Hart” is even squished neatly in the center of a pennant flag.

What I personally love about this postcard is the customizability. I imagine that, for the company producing this postcard - Auburn Post Manufacturing Company of Auburn, Indiana - this was a well-used template. “I Like the Town of ____ Think I’ll Buy it For You,” and you could stick whatever town you wanted in that pennant space. “Hart,” a four-letter word, fits quite

neatly. I don’t think we could say the same about Clara’s hometown “Hammondsport.” And then, for the remaining blank space on the rightmost side of the card - a little vignette of the town in question! Or really, just any generic deciduous forest would do for much of the upper Midwest.

And now for the main event, our transcribed message. Postmarked in Hart, Michigan, on December 30, 1912 at 7:30 p.m., it reads:

“Dear Edna - If nothing serious happens I go to Pentwater Wed. on the forenoon train.

- Lucile”

Sent to Edna Westbrook of Pentwater, Michigan

Short and sweet and to the point. If I’m being honest, Clara is on vacation brain.

But, as always here at The 1306, we will do our best to track down the sender and/ or recipient of the message. Edna Westbrook was born on February 2, 1897 to Calvin and Edith Westbrook. Calvin served several decades as a road commissioner for Mason County, and he and Edith both worked on the farm of Judge Fred Russel before settling on their own farm in Weare Township north of Buck’s Corners.

Edna married J. Harold

Birdsall on Sept. 1 of either 1916 or 1918 (his obituary reads 1916, but the Oceana County History Volume 1 says 1918). Upon his return from fighting in WWI, the couple settled on their own farm in Weare Township and had two children: Phyllis Marie and James Harold. Edna was a school teacher in Weare for many years and was noted as being an active community member. She died in 1956 at the age of 59. But in 1912, Edna was 15 on her family’s farm in Pentwater, and if nothing serious happened, her pal Lucile came in on the train for a visit.

250 years of the Declaration of Independence inspires activities for all ages across Oceana County

By Elizabeth Russell Pentwater Historical Society

Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the writing of the Declaration of Independence, and truly the very beginning of our nation, the Pentwater Museum is partnering with local libraries to provide activities for children and families, as well as an interesting look at the history of the Declaration in the museum itself.

A passbook is available at the museum, the Pentwater Library and the Hart Library. Each page of the passbook has questions to be answered about the Declaration and the men that wrote it and signed it. Of the 56 signers of the Declaration, the names Hancock, Jefferson, Clymer, Carroll, Hart and many others appear throughout Oceana County. A prize is awarded for each completed page of the passbook.

In Pentwater, yard signs throughout the residential area allow parents and guardians to scan QR codes to get information about the man that street is named after. The passbook has the map, and the questions to be answered!

The Declaration exhibit was installed in the Pentwater museum on June 29 and will remain there for the remainder of the season. It tells the stories of some of the men who wrote and signed the Declaration and the contributions they made to America’s independence.

Did you know that Thomas Jefferson (a Hart street) studied law under George Wythe (a Pentwater street) and was the primary author of the Declaration? Congress made over 80 changes to his draft before approving it and signing it, and that’s how our nation began.

Did you know that Charles Carroll (a Pentwater street) was the only Catholic delegate to the 2nd

Continental Congress and signer of the Declaration? He was prohibited from practicing law in England because of his religion.

Activities are available at the museum for non-readers as well, with prizes for completed pages of the passbook. Come and visit us this summer!

See the website https://pentwaterhistory.org to see some of the facts and answers for the passbook. Please email questions to info@pentwaterhistoricalsociety.org.

Funding provided by GLE People Fund, Pentwater Service Club, and Pentwater Women’s Club. They do good things in Oceana County.

Are you a GLE customer? You can help contribute to the GLE People Fund by rounding up your monthly bill to the next dollar. It’s a small amount that makes a big difference to non-profit organizations that need funding assistance for worthwhile projects in our service area.

Ongoing

The Ladder Community Center:

July 9 - 10th Anniversary Community Celebration, 6-8 p.m.

July 10,17,24 & 31 - Strum It Club, 11 a.m. to noon

July 13-17 - 5 Day Club for kids age 5-12, 1-2:30 p.m.

July 14 & 28 - Knitting Group, 10 a.m., July 25 - Live Hymns, 6:30-8 p.m.

August 14 - 2nd Annual Golf Scramble, 9 a.m. (sign up by 8/7)

6th-12th grade youth program, “Summer Break Out” M-F, 3-5 p.m.

Adult Hours: Mon-Thu 8 a.m. to 3 p.m./Fri. 8-2 Closed 7/3

MON: Women’s Bible Study, Galatians, 1-2 p.m., TUES: Men’s Bible Study, 10:30 a.m. to noon SAT: “Celebrate” Worship Service, 6:30 p.m.

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

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

Oceana Singers to present ‘America Celebrates 250’ concert

The Oceana Singers invite the entire community to their “America Celebrates 250” concert to be held Sunday, July 12, at the Shelby Congregational UCC, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, beginning at 4 p.m. The concert is free, but a freewill offering will be taken to help offset some of the choir’s expenses.

Celebrate America’s 250th with music! Enjoy a patriotic collection of old and new songs as well as selections from the Royal Ringers bell choir, who will play during intermission.

The Oceana Singers, a community group of vocalists, was organized in 2000 and performs two concerts a year. The choir consists of 30-40 community members, and one who has been with the choir since its beginnings! Community singers of any age and ability are always welcome. Since 2011, the group has been under the direction of Marcia Thatcher. (Valerie Nelson was the choir’s first director, followed by Nancy Miller.)

“The choir is dedicating this performance to our very talented pianist and formidable assistant director of many years, Ginny Huntington,” Thatcher said. “Ginny was a member of the choir, both as a vocalist and an accompanist, for many years and always had a smile on her face. She has stepped back this year, and we miss her dearly.”

For more information on past and future concerts and how to join the choir, please contact Thatcher at 231-742-3090.

The Ladder to host 5-Day Club for children

Get ready for five days of fun for children ages 5 to 12! Area children are invited to join The Ladder Community Center for fun activities, Bible lessons, memory verses, great games and prizes. There is no charge for this event. The 5-Day Club meets for 90 minutes July 13-17 from 1-2:30 p.m. at The Ladder, 67 N. State St., Shelby.

The 5-Day Club is sponsored by Child Evangelism Fellowship, a Bible-centered ministry serving in every region of the world. All teachers and helpers have been trained and screened to ensure each child’s protection. Parents are welcome to attend. Drop-ins are welcome, or sign up in advance by calling The Ladder at (231) 259-0211. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to event start time to complete the registration process.

IDEAS NOVEL IDEAS NOVEL

FROM THE STAFF AT

There is still time to sign up for our summer reading program if you haven’t been able to yet! Our program is open to all ages, so the whole family can join in and earn amazing locally donated prizes. Kids and teens (under 18) can pick out a free book at registration thanks to a generous donation from the Shelby Optimist Club! Seneca Foods Foundation and the Friends of the Hart Area Public Library are also top sponsors of our program this year. Our annual picnic with yard games will be held on Thursday, July 30 at 5:30 p.m. for participants and their families.

On Monday, July 6, the ODC Network will host “Dinosaurs of Today,” an animal program about dinosaur relatives and their neighbors at three of the Oceana County libraries. The Hart Library program will be held at 2 p.m. in the Hart Community Center. Pentwater District Library is at 11 a.m. and Shelby Area District Library is at 4:30 p.m.

Miss Barbara and friends will be back for two more special Music and Learn story times on July 10 and July 24 at 11 a.m. Preschool story time with Ms. Susie will be held on all other Fridays at 11 a.m. as well. Additionally, join us for a special evening story time on July 16 at 6:30 p.m. about volcano eruptions!

The free basic personal finance class offered by Bob Gray is back, this time in Spanish. It will be held on July 9, 16, and 23 from 6:30-8 p.m. Please register.

Saturday Shenanigans is a new joint 4-H and library program recommended for children ages 5–9 and their families. Try out the fun on Saturday, July 11 at 10 a.m. and find out what is so special about flowers (and take them apart!). On Saturday, July 25 learn about mammals and see their skins and skulls! This program is held outside the library, weather permitting, and no registration is required.

We are also offering two scavenger hunts! MiLibrary Quest for teens and tweens is an online quest, get started at mi.gov/MiLibraryQuest. In collaboration with the Pentwater District Library and Pentwater Historical Society, we have a special scavenger hunt for children and teens to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!

On Thursday, July 23, the monthly adult craft (string art) will be held at 2 p.m. (registration required). Additionally, simple weekly drop-in crafts and activities run through the end of July, with a different activity offered each week.

On July 13, at 11 a.m., our matinee for children will be the new animated release “Hoppers” (rated PG). Adults will enjoy the monthly Movie for Grown-Ups, featuring “Michael” (rated PG-13, 2026) at 4 p.m. on July 20 in the Hart Community Center. The Friends of the Library will provide free popcorn and bottled water for the movies. All library programs are free and open to the public.

July 3 - Pentwater Fireworks, Charles Mears State Park, 10 p.m.

July 4 - Annual Youth Bike Parade, Charles Mears State Park, 10 a.m.

July 4 & 5 - The Lake Effects Summer Art Show, Stony Lake, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

July 4 - Thunder Over the Dune Fireworks show, Silver Lake

July 5 - Stony Lake Sparkler 5K, downtown Stony Lake, 8 a.m.

July 9 - Friends of Shelby Area District Library meeting, 5 p.m.

July 9 - The Ladder Community Center 10th Anniversary Celebration, 6-8 p.m.

July 9 - Music on the Commons, “Martini Lounge”, Hart Commons, 6:30 p.m.

July 9 - Movie Night at Getty Park, “The Goofy Movie,” Shelby, 6:30 p.m.

July 10 - Friday Night Concert, The Accousticats, Hart Historic District, 7 p.m.

July 10-11 - Shelby CarvePrize & Festival, Downtown Shelby.

July 11 - Science with OC 4-H, HAPL, “Power of the Flower,” 10-11 a.m.

July 11 - Fine Arts Fair, Pentwater Village Green.

July 12 -St. Joseph’s & St. Vincent’s 75th Annual Ox Roast & Homecoming, St. Joe’s Hall, 2349 W. Jackson Rd., Hart, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

July 12 - Oceana Singers concert, Shelby Congregational UCC, 4 p.m.

Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run/Fun Walk set for July 5

The Annual Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, 2026. Everyone is welcome to turn out and cheer on the runners as they help raise funds for the Crystal Valley Care Fund.

The Stony Lake Association has sponsored a run to raise funds for a local charity since 2015. Their goal was to create a fun, family activity as part of the Fourth of July celebration for the Stony Lake area and other local communities and to promote community involvement, drawing possibly a couple hundred runners, and soliciting sponsorships to fund a decent-sized contribution. From an initial 500 participants at the first event in 2015, the race has reached its maximum capacity of 1,000 runners for the last three years. In addition, approximately 100 volunteers make the whole thing work, and spectators line the route to cheer on the athletes. Last year’s race raised over $30,000 for the Crystal Valley Care Fund, a local charity that helps people with crisis needs.

Race day on Sunday, July 5, begins with packet pickup from 7-8 a.m. in the parking lot of the Stony Lake Inn (early packet pickup and registration, if available, will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the Inn on Saturday, July 4). The one-mile fun run/walk begins at 8 a.m. and the professionally timed 5K run/walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Limited free parking is available on the Benona ballfield, but participants and spectators are urged to carpool, walk or bicycle to the race if possible.

All Fun Run participants receive awards, with special 5K awards to male and female overall winners, masters and grandmaster winners, and first, second and third place winners in multiple age groups. There also are special awards for Largest Family and Best Spirit Costume. The race course is out and back along scenic rural roads.

A fun post-race party is again planned in the parking lot of the Stony Lake Inn and includes great food and music. To register, go to stonylakesparkler.com.

OCCOA offers many July events for area seniors

The following are OCCOA events for July. All activities are held at the Oceana County Council on Aging, located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart, unless stated otherwise. Please call 873-4461 to sign up or make meal reservations. Breakfast is available on Thursday mornings from 8:30-9 a.m. The cost is $3, and reservations are required.

Center Closed: Friday, July 3, in observance of the Fourth of July

SAIL Exercise Class: Mondays and Wednesdays, to be announced

Chair Volleyball: Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21 and 28; 9 a.m.

Drum Fitness: Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21 and 28; 10 a.m.

Medical Yoga with Rob: Wednesdays, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; 4 p.m.

Zumba: Fridays, July 10, 17, 24 and 31; 9 a.m.

Art with Brad: Monday, July 13 and 27; 10 a.m.

Quilting Club: Wednesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; 9 a.m.

Massage Therapy: Monday, July 16; 9 a.m. to noon, appointment needed.

Beltone: Wednesday,

July 22; call Beltone to make an appointment.

Dinner Club: Once a month, we will gather as friends at a different restaurant for a meal. Date and location TBD.

Board Meeting: Tuesday, July 28; 1:30 p.m. Location: Oceana County Council on Aging.

Special Events

Adopt-a-Highway

Cleanup: Monday, July 13; 9 p.m. Rain date: Thursday, July 16; 9 a.m.

Annual Pie Auction: Wednesday, July 15; 12:30 p.m.

Quilt Shopp Hop: Friday, July 17; 9 a.m.

Shop Downtown Holland/Farmers Market: Wednesday, July 22; 9 a.m. Parmenter Office

Hours: Please call 8734461 for an appointment.

Lauren Eisenbarth, an Elder Law Paralegal for Attorney Anna Urick Duggins of Parmenter Law, will offer a half-hour, nocharge introductory meeting from 2-4 p.m. at Oceana County Council on Aging. Topics to discuss include Elder Law services such as Estate Planning, Long Term Care Planning, Medicaid Planning and

VA Aid & Attendance

Other Activities: Farkle: Mondays at 10 a.m.

Mexican Train: Mondays from 9-11 a.m. Loteria (Mexican Bingo): Mondays from 1:15 p.m.

Cribbage: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. Walk With Friends: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

Mahjong: Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Fitness at Hesperia American Legion: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9-10 a.m.

Euchre: Wednesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.

Bingo: Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure Checks: Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon.

Bridge: Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Cards & Games: Daily before and following lunch.

Games with Mary and Kay: Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

Please contact Bradley Youngstrom, program director, at 231-873-4461 or youngstrom@oceanacoa. com for info.

OBITUARIES

Barbara Ann Vanderberg

September 13, 1942 ~ June 29, 2026

Barbara Ann (Dailey) Vanderberg, age 83, passed away at the American House in Spring Lake, Michigan, on Monday, June 29, 2026. Having accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at a young age, Barb was wonderfully escorted to her heavenly home to be with her Lord forever. Barb lived her Christian faith throughout her life. Her favorite Bible verses were Proverbs 3:5-7.

Barb was born on September 13, 1942, in Hart, Michigan, to John Henry and Clara Mae (Hall) Dailey. Barb graduated from Hart High School in 1960 and then attended Muskegon Business School. Upon graduation, she began her working career at Cannon-Muskegon Corporation as personal secretary to Mr. Cannon. This is where she met her husband to be, Kenneth I. Vanderberg.

Ken and Barb were married on June 21, 1963, in Muskegon, Michigan. They enjoyed a wonderful Christian marriage for over 63 years. Ken’s employment took them first to Midland, Michigan, and then to Kentucky, Connecticut, Texas, and finally back to the West Michigan area.

Barb was blessed in her growing-up years to have a mother who was a 4-H teacher. Barb learned many basic homemaking skills that served her well in raising three active boys. Her gift of hospitality always made strangers and friends feel welcome. Her sons were noted for bringing home high school and college friends unannounced. Of course, there was always room at the dining room table. After moving back to Muskegon, Barb continued her career as an administrative assistant at Michigan Springs/Motion Dynamics Corporation.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

Barb and Ken enjoyed traveling. They visited all 50 states, mostly in their motor home. They especially enjoyed traveling to Europe, spending one month backpacking in the Dolomite Mountains and then traveling throughout Europe by train. Back home, their love for adventure took them on a week-long backpacking trip into the Grand Canyon. Barb enjoyed running competitively and participated in over 600 road races, including three marathons at Disney World, Anchorage, Alaska, and the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. Using her sewing/quilting talents, Barb started her own hobby business designing and making quilts from race t-shirts.

Barb is survived by her husband, Kenneth Vanderberg; three sons, Daniel (Mondy) Vanderberg, Scott (Jill) Vanderberg, and Steven (Karen) Vanderberg; eight grandchildren, Kenny (Jamie) Vanderberg, Julie (Russell) Day, Hannah (Barrett) Guess, Emily (Gabriel) Anweiler, Sarah (Noah) Surface, Alyssa (Joshua) Hall, Jared (Eden) Vanderberg, and Cassie Vanderberg; eight great-grandchildren; and brother John Dailey and sisters Joan Gustafson and Betty Dailey Nugent. Barb was preceded in death by her parents, John and Clara Dailey, and brother, Edward Arthur Dailey.

A celebration of Barb’s life will be held later this summer.

Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www. sytsemafh.com

Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.

Obituary Information:

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

Walkerville Wesleyan Church

St. Gregory-Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Parish

a.m. (English) STG

Domingo: 11:30 a.m. (Español) STG

Domingo: 6 p.m. (Español) OLF

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

50th Avenue Claybanks Sunday Mass: 8:30

Everyone is welcome to join us in worship Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. 82 Church St. P.O. Box 336 Hesperia, MI 49421 (231) 854-3075 hpc11@frontier.com

Love our community toward Christ Sunday 10:30 am Streamed on Safe Haven: Every Wed. 3-5 pm Open gym and showers available 231.873.5040 144 S Hamon St, Walkerville Office@walkervillewesleyanchurch.org

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

Church Directory June 28 through September 6 Sundays at 9:30 AM Pentwater Village Green Fall,

Misas en inglés y español

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

obituaries

Mitzi Mae Parsons

January 21, 1933 ~ June 29, 2026

Mitzi Mae Parsons, of Montague, Michigan, passed away Monday, June 29, 2026, surrounded by family. She was born in Scottville, Michigan, January 21, 1933, to Burton and Zelpha (Wever) Moore. She grew up and graduated from Scottville High School. Mitzi married her high school sweetheart Darwin Parsons in 1950. They resided in Scottville with their two children until moving to Montague, Michigan where they spent the remainder of their years together.

Mitzi loved reading cookbooks, cooking and being in numerous business ventures with her husband throughout their marriage of 75 years. Traveling was an other enjoyment they shared together, and of course there was the family cabin at Wawa, Canada. The joys of family get-togethers with 10 great-grandchildren were always at the top of their priorities.

Mitzi was a member of the Claybanks United Methodist Church, where she was an active member in the ladies’ UMW.

She is survived by: their children, Daniel (Lori) Parsons of Montague and Konda Grant of Montague; grandchildren, Brandon (Maria) Parsons, Carrie (Christopher) Jensen, Patricia (Charles) Jegla, Susan (Warren) Yaw, and Jennifer (Andrew) Short; 10 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Mitzi was preceded in death by her husband, Darwin Parsons; and her parents, Burton and Zelpha Moore.

A combined Celebration of Life for Mitzi and Darwin will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the Claybanks United Methodist Church, with a luncheon following.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Claybanks United Methodist Church or Harbor Hospice of Muskegon.

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

William Michael ‘Bill’ Efeney

May 13, 1940 ~ June 28, 2026

William Michael “Bill” Efeney, age 86, passed away un expectedly at his home in Pentwater, Michigan, and was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Bill was born to Bill and Marie Efeney and lived a life defined by faith, hard work, service and devotion to his family. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964. Bill began working at just 9 years old and, through decades of determination and perseverance, retired as a successful businessman. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to serving his church and his community, always willing to lend a helping hand and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Above all, Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, JoAnn Efeney; his sister, Marylin Rector; his children, Susan Cooper (William Cooper), Kelly De Nunzio (Dino De Nunzio) and Michael Efeney (Amy Efeney); his cherished grandchildren, Carlee Efeney-Nelson (Tommy Nelson), John Anclien, Jenni Keim (John Keim), Trey Efeney (Danni Efeney) and Nicole Anclien; and his great-grandson, William Michael Efeney IV.

Bill will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generous spirit, his dedication to serving others and the deep love he had for his family. His kindness, wisdom and example will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Parish in Hart, Michigan, on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Bill’s life and to honor the legacy of a man who faithfully served his country, his church, his community and those he loved most.

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

www.beaconfh.com

Mercile Louise ‘Weasie’ Olson

May 23, 1946 ~ June 18, 2026

Mercile Louise “Weasie” Olson, 80, of Mears, passed away Wednesday, June 18, 2026. She was born on May 23, 1946, to Doris Louise Brandel and George Carl Brandel in Hart, Michigan.

There are not enough words to describe the vibrancy of her personality with any accuracy. Exuberant, outgoing, loyal - to know her was to love her and to hear her coming from a mile away. She would often wake her children in their house in Mears with the cry, “Rise and shine in the Olson camp!" Her friends and family knew if they ever lost her, they could just be quiet for a moment and her laughter and chatter would lead them back. She was an extrovert that never met a stranger and made friends instantly and often.

She was a devoted wife to her husband, Bud, for 57 years until his passing in 2023 and was always there to support her four children and their families.

She loved nature and was especially fond of West Michigan, the area she was born, raised and lived her entire life in. The surrounding wildlife, sand dunes, beaches and lighthouses were frequent targets of her camera lens. Sunsets were one of her favorite photo opportunities, and she and Bud often made the trip to the lakeshore and the lighthouse to add to her ever-growing collection of amazing photos.

She was a long-time avid supporter of the Hart Public School system, cheering on her own children and everyone else’s at any and all sporting events, driving school bus for over 25 years and painting the pirate logo wherever it was needed.

She drove dune scooters for Mac Wood's Dune Rides for 19 years and continued her streak of friend-making while in that role. The number of people who met and loved Weasie from their experience with her as their driver was high. She loved that job, and it was tailor-made for her big personality.

She will be greatly missed by her family and the friends she made near and far.

She is survived by: her children, Christopher and Shelby (Wood) Olson, Tim and Keli (Engel) Olson, Barbara and Luke Albright, and Kathy and Scott Nason; her sisters Janice Brandel and Shirley Steinmetz; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life open house will be held at a later date.

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

www.beaconfh.com

Lola Mae Priese

July 6, 1934 ~ June 27, 2026

Lola Mae Priese, 91, passed away June 27, 2026. She was born July 6, 1934, in Muskegon, the daughter of John Frank and Phyllis (Gilliland) Hogston.

A longtime resident of Oceana County, Lola graduated from Shelby High School in 1952 and, shortly after, married the love of her life, Donald, in 1954.

Lola is survived by: her daughters, Dianne (Leonard) Bratsburg and Donna Hansen; cousin, Esther Moul; grandchildren, Matthew (Mindy) Bratsburg, Shannon Henery, Duane Jr. (Anita) Priese, Tony Priese, Kim (Steve) Clark, Andy Priese, and Thomas Hansen; 19 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Lola was preceded in death by her parents, John Frank and Phyllis (Gilliland) Hogston; son, Duane Priese; granddaughter, Leann Bratsburg; son-in-law, David "Tom" Hansen; brothers, Harold (Florence) Hogston, Norman Hogston, Douglas (Delores) Hogston; and sister, Dorcas (John) Fekken.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Era Bible Church, 5308 S. Oceana Dr., New Era, Michigan 49446.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at New Era Bible Church, 5308 S. Oceana Dr., New Era, Michigan 49446. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, with interment to follow immediately at New Era Cemetery. Family and friends are especially invited to gather as they celebrate her life on what would have been her birthday. A luncheon will be provided at the church following the interment for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

Celebration of Life – Sheryl Ann Luedke

A Celebration of Life for Sheryl Ann Luedke will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at The Pizza Factory, 254 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49455. A visitation will take place from noon to 12:30 p.m., followed by a time of speaking and remembrance from 12:30-1:30 p.m., and then a luncheon from 1:30-3 p.m. Please join her three sons and their families as they remember and celebrate their Mother's wonderful life.

Obituary Information:

By Lucie Winborne

• Chuck Norris had his own line of jeans called “Action Jeans.”

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By Lucie Winborne

• On July 6, 1900, Warren Earp, youngest of the famous gunfighting Earp brothers, was murdered at the Headquarters Saloon in Willcox, Arizona, by John Boyett. Reportedly, Warren had imbibed too much alcohol and begun abusing some of the customers. While Boyett was tried for murder, he was declared innocent on the grounds of acting in self-defense.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

• On July 7, 1456, Joan of Arc’s conviction for heresy was overturned at an appeal proceeding held at the archbishop’s palace in Rouen, France. Sadly, she had been burned at the stake 25 years earlier.

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260622 FOR RELEASE JUNE 22, 2026

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20260622

By Lucie Winborne

FOR RELEASE JUNE 22, 2026

By JoAnn Derson

• On July 8, 1853, Commodore Japan’s Tokyo Bay with a squadron of four American vessels. At first officials refused to speak with him, but under threat of attack they accepted letters from President Millard Fillmore, making the U.S. the first Western nation to establish relations with Japan since the country declared itself closed to foreigners two centuries previously.

• On July 8, 1853, Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry sailed into Japan’s Tokyo Bay with a squadron of four American vessels. At first officials refused to speak with him, but under threat of attack they accepted letters from President Millard Fillmore, making the U.S. the first Western nation to establish relations with Japan since the country declared itself closed to foreigners two centuries previously.

• Having a yard sale? Here’s a great way to put out extra signs when you don’t have a way to stake them into the ground: “Write your sign advertising your yard sale on the sides of a big box. Place it where you want it, and add a large rock to the inside, then tape shut. We did this when we had no poles to tape signs to or any other way to get them to stand up. It worked really well!” — D.R. in Georgia

• Avoid calling the pediatrician’s office on Monday mornings for routine business. Wait until the afternoon. All the parents with mildly sick children over the weekend will be calling to consult with the doctor and nurses first thing when the office opens.

• At the time of its release, Grand Theft Auto 5 is the most expensive video game ever made — $265 million in production costs.

By Lucie Winborne

• Chuck Norris had his own line of jeans called “Action Jeans.”

• Diet Coke isn’t a modified form of Coke, but a totally different recipe.

• At the time of its release, Grand Theft Auto 5 is the most expensive video game ever made — $265 million in production costs.

• Diet Coke isn’t a modified form of Coke, but a totally different recipe.

• A brand of anti-chafing foot powder won a 1967 mayoral election in Picoaza, Ecuador. Its platform? The product was touted as potentially bringing hygiene and well-being to the town of 4,000.

• The youngest soldier in the American Civil War was a 9-year-old boy from Mississippi, while the oldest was an 80-year-old man from Iowa.

• A brand of anti-chafing foot powder won a 1967 mayoral election in Picoaza, Ecuador. Its platform? The product was touted as potentially bringing hygiene and well-being to the town of 4,000.

• The youngest soldier in the American Civil War was a 9-year-old boy from Mississippi, while the oldest was an 80-year-old man from Iowa.

• After the 9/11 tragedy in 2001, cyclist David Hale Sylvester began bicycling-and-hugging tours all over the world and staged multiple “hug parties” on three continents. As of 2021, he had hugged more than half a million people.

• On July 9, 1948, baseball star Satchel Paige made his Major League debut with the Cleveland Indians, becoming, at age 42, the oldest rookie in the sport’s history. As he notably remarked, “Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it don’t matter.”

• On July 10, 1962, the United States Patent Office issued Swedish engineer Nils Bohlin a patent for his three-point automobile safety belt. Consisting of two straps joined at the hip level and fastened into a single anchor point, it reduced injuries by holding both the upper and lower body and decreasing the impact of the swift deceleration that occurred in a crash.

• On July 11, 1978, a truck carrying liquid gas crashed into a wall at a campsite of vacationers in San Carlos de la Rapita, Spain, resulting in an explosion that killed more than 200 people, with others suffering severe burns. The crash’s cause was unknown, though some witnesses reported seeing a fire on the vehicle prior to the accident.

• On July 11, 1978, a truck carrying liquid gas crashed into a wall at a site of vacationers in San Carlos de la Rapita, Spain, resulting in an explosion that killed more than 200 people, with others suffering severe burns. The crash’s cause was unknown, though some witnesses reported seeing a fire on the vehicle prior to the accident.

• On July 12, 1990, two days after Mikhail Gorbachev was re-elected head of the Soviet Communist Party, Boris Yeltsin, president of the Republic of Russia, announced his resignation from the party.

• If you drop an egg, sprinkle with salt before you attempt to clean it up. The salt binds the whites, which will not spread, making pickup easier!

• “My kids had kind of an obsession with colorful duct tape in the past year, and we made some “beach bags” to keep our electronics safe at the pool, lake and beach. We carefully covered a variety of sizes of zip-top selfsealing bags with the tape, creating tough, colorful pouches in which we can store cellphones, etc., to keep them safe from water damage.” — W.L. in North Carolina

• You can sharpen scissors by cutting folded aluminum foil into small strips.

• The best time of day to water your lawn is the evening. The cooler temperatures allow the water to sink into the soil instead of evaporating with the heat of the day. Always follow your city or county guidelines on watering times for your area.

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

• Australian tennis player Samuel Groth once served a ball that was clocked at an astonishing 163.6 mph.

• Danish, Anglo-Saxon and Norman men were known for elaborate hairstyles and grooming, sometimes even before battle.

• Australian tennis player Samuel Groth once served a ball that was clocked at an astonishing 163.6 mph.

• According to practitioners, shiatsu massages should always be given with the recipient lying on the floor rather than on a table or chair.

• Danish, Anglo-Saxon and Norman men were known for elaborate hairstyles and grooming, sometimes even before battle.

• A Florida judge once called Elvis Presley “savage” for “undermining the youth.”

• According to practitioners, shiatsu massages should always be given with the recipient lying on the floor rather than on a table or chair.

• A Florida judge once called Elvis Presley “savage” for “undermining the youth.”

• Tilapia are painted on ancient Egyptian tomb walls and included in a spell in the Egyptian Book of the Dead to help the deceased take their place in the sun boat.

Up to 75% of people with Down syndrome have some hearing loss.

• Ancient Roman priestesses known as Vestal Virgins were required to remain virgins for 30 years; those convicted of breaking their vows could be buried alive.

• Up to 75% of people with Down syndrome have some hearing loss.

***

• Ancient Roman priestesses known as Vestal Virgins were required to remain virgins for 30 years; those convicted of breaking their vows could be buried alive.

***

Thought for the Day: “Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.” — John Lennon

OC ANIMAL SHELTER

At 10 years young and 53 pounds of pure sweetness, Sophie is searching for the retirement home of her dreams.

This gentle Boxer lady recently had a full veterinary exam, and the veterinarian had zero concerns. Sophie may be a senior, but she still has plenty of love left to give and is ready to spend her golden years as someone's cherished companion. Sophie absolutely adores people. She is wonderful with kids, loves attention and will happily soak up all the pets and cuddles you can offer. One of her favorite activities is going for car rides, making her the perfect co-pilot for errands, road trips or ice cream runs. Sophie has one simple request for her future family: she wants to be your one and only pet. She has made it very clear that she no longer enjoys sharing her space with other animals, so she is looking for a home without dogs or cats. Sophie is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the shelter at 231-861-5395. The

Shelby recognizes Officer Wietrzykowski for action

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

SHELBY - Monday, June 22, Village of Shelby Police Officer Stephen Wietrzykowski received a special commendation from the Shelby Village Council for level-headed action taken on May 12.

Shelby Police Chief Dean Roesler offered the following comments prior to the presentation, “Looking at the totality of the circumstances, under department policy and state law, Officer Wietrzykowski would have been totally justified in using lethal force. But due to his training and experience and level-headedness, he made the decision to deploy his taser, which fortunately de-escalated the situation, and everybody walked away. I want to commend Steve for his quick thinking, quick action and respect for human life.”

The formal resolution read in part, “When in the course of his duties on May 12, Officer Wietrzykowski responded to a call for service within the Village of Shelby and encountered a situation that presented a serious and immediate threat. Officer Wietrzykowski demonstrated extraordinary composure, judgment and a disciplined commitment to de-escalation under significant personal risk. Officer Wietrzykowski’s actions resulted in the safe resolution of a dangerous situation, protecting both the safety of the public and well-being of all individuals involved. Officer Wietrzykowski’s conduct reflects the core values of the Shelby Police Department and serves as a model of professional excellence for his fellow officers and broader law enforcement community.”

After the meeting Monday, Roseler told The Oceana Echo he didn’t wish to cast judgment on any police department that has had to handle volatile situations with lethal force. “We hear about the negative consequences too often.”

He only wished to highlight how in this case Wietrzykowski, who simply came upon the situation by accident and took on a peacekeeping role, remained calm, and in the moment made the right decision for all involved.

Following the commendation and photos, council member and chair of the Personnel Committee, Mike Termer, offered a prayer of blessing and protection over the entire police department.

Officer Steve Wietrzykowski, Personnel Chair Mike Termer and Personnel Vice-Chair Samantha Gottschalk

According to Chief Roesler, Officer Wietrzykowski, who was hired February 10, 2025, has over 30 years of experience in police work. Wietrzykowski retired as police captain of the City of Ludington and worked for a short time for the Village of Scottville before it disbanded their police department.

In other village business, council approved an amendment to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Shelby Acres to allow for the construction of six more homes on the east side of the development. The current PUD allows for 82 homes; with the amendment, 88 homes will be allowed. With all council members present, Crystal Heykoop, Steve Crothers, Termer, Samantha Gottschalk, Curt Trott and Village President John Sutton voted in favor of the amendment; council member Dan Zaverl cast the lone dissenting vote.

Village Administrator Phil Morse told the council the amendment had gone before the village planning commission, and they had recommended approval.

Some on the council questioned whether the additional homes would affect the current water supply and pump station capabilities and if more homes were really needed within the village.

Morse said he could 100 percent guarantee the additional homes would not affect village water supplies or capabilities, adding the current pump station has enough capacity for 150 homes/units.

“What’s the driver behind the amendment? If we overload the market, will other homes (that are now

for sale) sell? Will we be putting these homeowners in a bind,” Termer asked.

Morse told the council that homes do continue to sell within the development. Heykoop commented that from what she has been hearing regarding housing development in the Rothbury area, home buyers may have more financing options available when buying a new home versus an existing home.

It was also noted a road already exists on this side of the development, and the six new homes would be built across the street from homes already within the PUD.

During public comment, Kim Cole, Ludington resident and former Mason County Sheriff announced his bid for Michigan’s 32nd Senate District (Benzie, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana and portions of Manistee counties) currently held by Senator Jon Bumstead.

Collin Clark, resident of Shelby Acres, also spoke during public comment and requested more street signage and “Children Playing” signs for the protection of residents.

Sharon Hallack/Echo

Registration Notice For Primary Election

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

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

Please Take Notice that any qualified elector who is not already registered, may register to vote at the office of their City/Township Clerk; the office of the County Clerk; a Secretary of State branch office; or other designated state agency Registration forms c an also be obtained at mi gov/vote and mailed to the correct City/Township Clerk Voters who are already registered may update their registration at www expressSoS com

The last day to register for the Primary Election, in any manner other than in person with the local clerk, will be Monday, July 20, 2026

After this date, anyone who qualifies as an elector may register to vote in person, with proof of residency (MCL 168 497) at their local City/Township Clerk’s Office

FOR THE PURPOSE OF NOMINATING CANDIDATES OF THE REPUBLICAN & DEMOCRAT PARTIES FOR PARTISAN OFFICES AND TO VOTE ON VARIOUS PROPOSITIONS:

AND FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING: Delegates to the County Convention of the Republican and Democratic parties. THE FOLLOWING JURISDICTIONS WILL ALSO HAVE PROPOSALS TO BE VOTED ON:

COUNTY Mason-Oceana 911 Operating Millage, Oceana County Emergency Ambulance Operating Millage, and Proposition for Renewal of Separate Tax Limitations

BENONA TOWNSHIP Road Millage and Library Millage Proposal

GRANT TOWNSHIP Millage for Road Construction and Maintenance

HART TOWNSHIP Cemetery Millage

SHELBY TOWNSHIP 2 0 Mills for Shelby Township Road Maintenance and Improvement and 0 5 Mill for Township Cemeteries and Public Parks Improvement and Maintenance Purposes

WALKERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS Operating Millage Proposal

HESPERIA PUBLIC LIBRARY Library Millage Proposal

PENTWATER DISTRICT LIBRARY Library Millage Proposal

The full proposal language for the above proposals can be obtained from the Oceana County Clerk, each respective Township/City Clerk, or at the website of the Oceana County Clerk at https://oceana mi us/departments/co unty-clerk/elections/upcoming-election-information/

To request an absentee ballot, please contact your local City/Township Clerk or request online at mi gov/vote

BENONA TOWNSHIP

FERRY TOWNSHIP

Chris Ernst

NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP

Local DAR members attend 135th Continental Congress in nation’s capital as America marks its 250th Anniversary

Nearly 5,000 members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) convened towards the end of last month in the nation’s capital for the 135th Continental Congress, the longstanding service organization’s annual meeting.

The week-long convention includes business sessions, committee meetings, and social functions and is topped off with formal evening ceremonies at which national DAR award recipients are honored.

Among them were State Director DAR of Michigan and Chapter Librarian Shannon Larson and Chapter Treasurer Brenda Hilderbrandt, both delegates of the Michigan Dunes Chapter in Pentwater, Michigan. During Congress, Larson served on the Corridor Hostess Committee, and Hilderbrandt served on the Congress Doors Committee. Larson and Hilderbrandt also attended the Michigan Welcome Brunch, Opening Night Ceremony, Education Awards Night and National Defense Night.

Margie Shaw

Township/City Clerk Registration Hours Weekend Before Election

Saturday, August 1, 2026

BENONA TOWNSHIP

Margie Shaw

Chris Ernst

Sunday, August 2, 2026

FERRY TOWNSHIP

Nancy L Conley

Saturday, August 1, 2026

NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP

Saturday, August 1, 2026

9 a m – 5 p m 7169 W Baker Rd Shelby, MI 49455 231-861-2154

Chris Ernst

Sunday, August 2, 2026

10 a m – 6 p m 4158 E M20 Hesperia, MI 49421

Nancy L Conley

BENONA TOWNSHIP CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP

231-571-8712

10 a m – 6 p m 4158 E M20 Hesperia, MI 49421 231-571-8712

Saturday, August 1, 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 3890 S 198th Ave Hesperia, MI 49421 231-854-4702

“Continental Congress is a time-honored tradition and opportunity for our members to come together to celebrate our country’s rich history, share ideas and mark their past year in service. With our nation commemorating its 250th anniversary this year, DAR chapters have been sharing the history of those inspiring individuals who contributed to American independence,” President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage said. “Service to our country is at the heart of everything DAR does, and it is always inspiring to welcome thousands of Daughters to our historic headquarters in Washington, DC. Working together, we are dedicated to advancing historic preservation, education, and patriotism for generations to come."

Margie Shaw Mark Kutches

Saturday, August 1, 2026 Saturday, August 1, 2026

9 a m

CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP

Mark Kutches

Saturday August 1 2026

10 a m – 6 p m 4158 E M20 Hesperia, MI 49421

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

231-571-8712

Rachel Iteen

7169 W Baker Rd Sunday, August 2, 2026 Shelby, MI 49455 12:00

Saturday August 1 2026

CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP

1 p m – 5 p m

Mark Kutches

1 p m – 5 p m Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Rachel Iteen

4:00

Saturday August 1 2026

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Saturday August 1 2026

Rachel Iteen

8 a m – 4 p m 3890 S 198 h Ave Hesperia, MI 49421

8 a m – 4 p m 3890 S 198th Ave Hesperia, MI 49421 231-854-4702

OTTO TOWNSHIP

231-854-4702

Patricia Budde

Patricia Budde Saturday August 1 2026

Saturday August 1 2026

OTTO TOWNSHIP

231-861-2154 7577 W Cleveland Rd New Era, MI 49446 231-742-3470

6 a m – 2 p m 5527 W Fox Rd Mears, MI 49436

Patricia Budde

Saturday, August 1, 2026

1 p m – 5 p m Sunday, August 2, 2026

12:00 p m – 4:00 p m

12:00 p m – 4:00 p m 7577 W Cleveland Rd New Era MI 49446 231-742-3470

6 a m – 2 p m 5527 W Fox Rd Mears, MI 49436 231-873-4413

231-873-4413

Saturday, August 1, 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 4262 E Arthur Rd Hesperia, MI 49421 231-861-5342

At the Opening Night Ceremony on Wednesday, June 24, America’s 250th birthday was a prominent part of the festivities. The acclaimed PBS documentary “The American Revolution” by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt received the DAR Media and Entertainment Award. Ken Burns was also recognized for his 50 years of historical filmmaking with the DAR Medal of Honor.

12:00 p m – 4:00 p m 7577 W Cleveland Rd New Era, MI 49446 231-742-3470

8 a m – 4 p m 4262 E Arthur Rd Hesperia, MI 49421 231-861-5342

COLFAX TOWNSHIP CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

6 a m – 2 p m 5527 W Fox Rd Mears, MI 49436

GRANT TOWNSHIP

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Joni Gerard Debra Gustafson Stephanie Van Sickle

8 a

231-873-4413

Carol M Sisson

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Saturday, August 1, 2026 Saturday, August 1, 2026

COLFAX TOWNSHIP

Carol M Sisson

Saturday, August 1, 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 4262 E Arthur Rd Hesperia, MI 49421 231-861-5342

7577 W Cleveland Rd New Era, MI 49446 231-742-3470

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Maureen Murphy

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Joni Gerard

Saturday, August 1, 2026

COLFAX TOWNSHIP

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Joni Gerard

GRANT TOWNSHIP

Carol M Sisson

Maureen Murphy Saturday, August 1, 2026

5594 N 192nd Ave Sunday, August 2, 2026 Sunday, August 2, 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 5594 N 192nd Ave Walkerville, MI 49459 231-301-5685

Saturday, August 1, 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 5594 N 192nd Ave Walkerville MI 49459 231-301-5685

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

Debra Gustafson

Saturday, August 1, 2026

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

6 a m – 10 a m

Debra Gustafson

6 a m – 10 a m Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Saturday, August 1, 2026

6 a m – 10 a m

Sunday, August 2, 2026

6 a m – 10 a m 4042 W Hogan Rd Pentwater, MI 49449 231-425-6818

6 a m – 10 a m 4042 W Hogan Rd Pentwater MI 49449 231-425-6818

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Stephanie Van Sickle

Saturday August 1 2026

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

5 p m – 9 p m

Stephanie Van Sickle

Sunday, August 2, 2026

5 p m – 9 p m

8 a m – 4 p m 7140 S Oceana Drive Rothbury, MI 49452 231-893-6336

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

8 a m – 4 p m 7140 S Oceana Drive Rothbury, MI 49452 231-893-6336

Saturday August 1 2026

8 a m – 4 p m 7140 S Oceana Drive Rothbury, MI 49452 231-893-6336

GREENWOOD TOWNSHIP

Linda Hunt

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Linda Hunt

9 a m – 5 p m 500 N Hancock St Pentwater, MI 49449 231-869-6231 EXT 227

Maureen Murphy Saturday August 1 2026

9 a m – 5 p m 500 N Hancock St Pentwater, MI 49449 231-869-6231 EXT 227

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Cathy Anderson

9 a m – 5 p m 500 N Hancock St Pentwater, MI 49449 231-869-6231 EXT 227

Cathy Anderson

Saturday, August 1, 2026

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

GREENWOOD TOWNSHIP

Sunday, August 2, 2026

9 a m – 5 p m 5589 S 200th Ave Hesperia MI 49421 231-742-0876

9 a m – 5 p m 5589 S 200th Ave Hesperia, MI 49421 231-742-0876

HART TOWNSHIP

Steve Freed

9 a m – 5 p m 5589 S 200th Ave Hesperia, MI 49421 231-742-0876

Steve Freed

Sunday, August 2, 2026

HART TOWNSHIP

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Steve Freed

Sunday, August 2, 2026

10 a m – 6 p m 3437 W Polk Rd Hart, MI 49420 231-873-2734

LEAVITT TOWNSHIP

Naomi Oomen

Saturday, August 1, 2026

5 p m – 9 p m 2266 E Polk Rd Hart, MI 49420 231-873-4740

5 p m – 9 p m 2266 E Polk Rd Hart MI 49420 231-873-4740

10 a m – 6 p m 3437 W Polk Rd Hart MI 49420 231-873-2734

Naomi Oomen Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday, August 1, 2026

LEAVITT TOWNSHIP

Sunday, August 2, 2026

5 p m – 9 p m 2266 E Polk Rd Hart, MI 49420 231-873-4740

Naomi Oomen

Saturday, August 1, 2026

7 a m – 3 p m 3715 N 200 h Ave Walkerville, MI 49459 231-329-5490

7 a m – 3 p m 3715 N 200th Ave Walkerville, MI 49459 231-329-5490

9 a m – 5 p m 204 N Michigan Ave Shelby, MI 49455 231-861-5853

Cathy Anderson Saturday, August 1, 2026

9 a m – 5 p m 204 N Michigan Ave Shelby MI 49455 231-861-5853

9 a m – 5 p m 204 N Michigan Ave Shelby, MI 49455 231-861-5853

WEARE TOWNSHIP

Debra Gustafson

Debra Gustafson Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday, August 1, 2026

WEARE TOWNSHIP

6 a m – 10 a m Sunday, August 2, 2026

The National Defense Night Ceremony, celebrating our nation’s military personnel and veterans, featured a 25th anniversary commemoration of September 11, 2001. This event honored the organizations and individuals that work to preserve the memories of those lost, support families affected, and shape the future narrative of 9/11 around remembrance through service. As part of the commemoration, the President General’s Medallion was presented to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the New York Medical Examiner’s Office/World Trade Center DNA Identification Office, VOICES - Center for Resilience and 9/11 Day.

6 a m – 10 a m Sunday, August 2, 2026

Debra Gustafson Saturday, August 1, 2026

6 a m – 10 a m 4042 W Hogan Rd Pentwater, MI 49449 231-425-6818

6 a m – 10 a m Sunday, August 2, 2026

6 a m – 10 a m 4042 W Hogan Rd Pentwater, MI 49449 231-425-6818

HART CITY

Karla Swihart

Karla Swihart Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday, August 1, 2026

HART CITY

The DAR Continental Congress is an annual gathering that has been held in Washington, D.C. since the organization’s founding in 1890. National, state and chapter leaders as well as other members from across the country and around the world meet at the DAR National Headquarters to report on the year’s work, honor outstanding award recipients, plan future initiatives and reconnect with friends.

With more than 190,000 members worldwide, DAR is one of the world's largest and most active service organizations. To learn more, visit www.DAR.org.

7 a m – 3 p m City Hall 407 State St Hart, MI 49420 231-923-0012

Karla Swihart Saturday, August 1, 2026

7 a m – 3 p m City Hall 407 State St Hart, MI 49420 231-923-0012

Shannon Larson and Brenda Hilderbrandt

City of Hart continues Starting Block discussion

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Over a dozen business owners and community members were in attendance at the June 23 Hart City Council regular meeting to show their support for the Starting Block. The Starting Block is a nonprofit organization and kitchen incubator with which the city partnered in 2008 to help manage the facility building as well as procure grants for the Starting Block’s operations.

The organization’s mission is “to incubate and support the entrepreneurial spirit, in the food systems and natural resource sector, by providing licensed commercial kitchen facilities, entrepreneurial education and peer-to-peer networking to new and expanding businesses in the multi-county, West Central Michigan region.” Currently, 16 local West Michigan businesses work with the facility, with dozens more established businesses owing their success and growth to the organization. Despite this, some Oceana County residents today may be unaware of the organization and the services it provides.

As the Hart City Council has been seriously examining the city budget, the Starting Block has been a topic of discussion in regard to the ownership of the facility building and the organization’s utility payments. As explained by Mayor Amanda Klotz, the 2008 lease agreement stipulated that “the city would retain ownership of the property for 15 years to satisfy grant requirements. At the end of that period, the property would be transferred to the Starting Block for $1,000, provided the organization remained in good standing with the goals, objectives and grant obligations of the project.” While the Starting Block has since taken over the responsibility of utility payments - which the city had been footing between $23,000 and $25,000 annually - the building is still city property.

The crux of the discourse between the Starting Block and the City of Hart is the 2008 lease agreement. The Starting Block requests that the building be transferred to the organization, as expressed in the agreement. According to Trey Choice, the new director of the Starting Block, “the mission that justified the original grants and public investment continues to be fulfilled… The issue is not whether additional studies can be requested; the issue is whether the original agreement will be honored or not.”

However, the City of Hart maintains a converse stance. Explained City Manager Nichole Kleiner,

Dr. Val partners with you to get you back to what you love! Call 231-301-8383 or visit our website www.oceanafamilychiropractic.com

“The Starting Block [failed] to uphold its agreement in the sense of repairs and maintenance” - specifically in not dedicating $70,000 to repairs to the roof and the city’s past expenses offsetting utility payments. Kleiner continued, advising the council that "The question, at the end of the day, is are the taxpayers okay with offsetting the shortcomings of this organization?”

Both parties are seeking legal review of the lease agreement in order to clarify and determine next steps moving forward, but those working with and for the Starting Block have expressed concerns over the organization’s future and if the City of Hart will sell the building to another entity.

During public comment, Choice introduced the business owners in the audience, several of whom commented to the council on the significance of the Starting Block to their businesses’ operations and expressed their hope that the facility will continue to be operated by the organization. Said one business owner, via translator, “It's very important that I’m able to make my product to provide services not only to the local people, but also to the tourists, and the tourists always come looking for products made locally here in Hart… It's very gratifying to me that I am able to provide a product grown and made locally here in Hart.”

Also in attendance was an employee of the Starting Block, who expressed their admiration for the organization’s mission and the fulfillment of what they’ve learned about food preparation through their employment. “I would love it if, in some way, there can be a way forward that allows that [mission] to continue.”

Sky Harsch, stewardship coordinator at the Oceana Conservation District, spoke of the importance of the Starting Block from a sustainability standpoint, particularly in regard to population growth and its reliance on economic and business opportunities. “When we think about sustainability and we think about growth in our county, we really want to think about how to support small businesses and startups,” Harsch said.

Kleiner and city council members responded positively to the show of solidarity for the Starting Block, with Kleiner expressing how the community turnout to the meeting was "absolutely amazing. This is hon-

estly what we wanted to see from the Starting Block, is this show of support.”

Regarding the status of the Starting Block’s facility, Kleiner did not deny that there are other entities interested in purchasing the building, but that the city is currently not seeking to sell. However, as city manager, it is Kleiner’s responsibility to share these offers with council and posed the question: “Are we willing to entertain other offers?”

Should bids open for the building, the Starting Block was encouraged to make a proposal.

Klotz, discussing the 2008 lease agreement, agreed that counsel was needed to evaluate the document, and that it was “most fair” to obtain proposals for the building from other interested parties. However, she reiterated that the point of Tuesday’s meeting was to “figure out what to do and what’s financially solvent for the city and the entity that’s hosting in [the building.]”

The council requested and was presented a sustainability plan from Choice, which recounted the history of the Starting Block, the current scope of the organization and visions for the future. Some of those plans include building a grant-writing team, focusing on publicity for the organization and starting programs building youth education and workforce development.

The matter of publicity was brought up by council member Betty Root, who recalled her time on city council in 2008 when the lease agreement was created, speaking of the initial excitement for the Starting Block and how it had waned over the years as managers changed.

While council member Andrew Mullen agreed that he was willing to entertain other offers, he’d only consider proposals if the facility remained as an “economic incubator,” as the Starting Block is now. “The Starting Block is, has been, and I’m hoping will continue to be a major asset,” said Mullen. "That’s not something I want to see go away.”

• Elections Management (includes training)

• Maintain official township records and documents

• Maintain/manage the township cemetery records

• Attend and record all township board meetings minutes

• Prepares and files monthly, quarterly, and annual tax reports, including W-2s, 1099s, etc.

• Ensures records are audit-ready and assists during audits

• Runs QuickBooks reports for township board members

Flexible

Working together for greater impact: OCF's Spring Oceana Free Dive focuses on Systems Change

The Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) recently hosted its Spring Oceana Free Dive focused on Systems Change & Collective Impact, bringing together 47 individuals representing more than 30 organizations from across Oceana County. Community members, nonprofit leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, business representatives and local government all gathered for a morning centered on one important idea: "We all care deeply about this community — so how do we work together to create even greater impact?"

The event explored the idea of systems change, which is shifting how people think and work together to address the root causes of complex community challenges instead of reacting to the symptoms or working in silos/ isolation. The OCF's CEO Tammy Carey kicked off the meeting by illustrating how community foundations are uniquely positioned to address specific community challenges and opportunities. By nature, community foundations are always looking through a systems-change lens to see the whole ecosystem, function as connective tissue and bring people together. Carey shared several examples of initiatives and projects led by the OCF that continue to focus on creating systems change, such as the Oceana College Access Network (Oceana CAN!) higher education program, Read early. Read often. early literary program, the Complete Your Degree adult learners program and partnerships with many local organizations to foster community development projects.

After listening to presentations from O’Nealya Gronstal of the Lakeshore Food Club and Alyssa Merten of the Oceana CAN!, attendees began networking and group discussions while exploring what systems change can look like in a rural community and how stronger collaboration can lead to greater impact. Lakeshore Food Club recently opened a food hub in the Hart Industrial Park to source, store and distribute free and donated food for all their regional food partners. They are poised to open a local food club in the new West Shore Community College building in Hart. Oceana CAN! has led a network of education partners for a decade to build

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Ronald D. Robbins & Lorena R. Robbins Trust

TO ALL CREDITORS:

The Settlor, Ronald D. Robbins, born on November 7, 1943, who lived at 3429 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, MI 49420, died on May 28, 2026. There is no personal representative of the settlor’s estate to whom Letter of Administration have been issued.

Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against Ronald D. Robbins personally and/or the Ronald D. Robbins & Lorena R. Robbins Trust dated June 14, 2001 as amended, will forever be banned unless presented to Tammy S. Cavanagh Successor Trustee, within four (4) months after the date of publication.

Notices is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distribute to the persons entitled to it.

Dated: July 3, 2026

By: Tammy S. Cavanagh Trustee

a culture within Oceana County focused on post-secondary education awareness, access and attainment to build and sustain a vibrant local economy by meeting workforce talent gaps and helping alleviate poverty.

Throughout the morning, attendees reflected on a powerful realization: "The real question isn’t whether we’re working hard. It’s whether we’re working together."

The conversations focused not on starting from scratch, but on how to better connect efforts, strengthen relationships and move each participant toward collective impact. Participants spent time discussing what is already working well in the community, what gaps still exist and what could become possible when people intentionally build trust across sectors. Unlike large-scale initiatives launched with major resources, meaningful change in rural communities often starts organically: identifying a problem honestly, listening closely and building relationships over time.

Attendees talked about the power of showing up consistently, authentically and in spaces where relationships can grow. Conversations highlighted that building trust and connecting people is often some of the most important work in creating lasting change, and that simply bringing the right people together can spark meaningful collaboration and momentum for the future.

“These conversations matter because real change doesn’t happen in isolation,” said Hannah Naples, program officer at the Oceana Community Foundation, who designs and facilitates the free dive events. “We already have passionate people doing incred-

NOTICE

VILLAGE OF SHELBY 2026 TAXES

Collection of property taxes begins July 1st. Tax payments must be made no later than September 14th to avoid penalty fees. Taxes may be made Monday - Thursday from 8:30a.m – 4:30p.m. at the Village Hall. 218 N Michigan Ave Village of Shelby, MI 49455 (231) 861-4400

Payments are accepted only for the exact tax amount due. Payments may be made after hours via the drop box and a return receipt will be mailed if a self-addressed envelope is included with a payment.

Failure to receive a tax notice by mail does not relieve the taxpayer of an obligation to pay the tax.

ible work throughout Oceana County. The opportunity is figuring out how we continue building relationships, connecting efforts and creating systems that help people thrive longterm. You could feel the energy in the room from people who truly believe change is possible.”

One attendee shared, “I have been to a lot of the Free Dives, and they have all been fantastic, but today might have been the very best. I wasn't sure how you were going to get everyone to wrap their minds around the idea of systems change, but you did it. At my breakout table, there was a very rich exchange of ideas about differ-

ent ways to approach problem-solving and ways to work together. When the challenges facing our community seem to just get greater, I left feeling inspired. That says a lot!”

The Oceana Free Dive series was created to bring people together around important community topics, encourage learning and connection, and create space for collaboration. While the event itself lasted only a morning, organizers hope the conversations and relationships built there continue long afterward. As attendees left the event, there was a shared sense that systems change does not begin with one organization, one meeting or one perfect solution. It begins with people willing to come together, build trust, stay committed and believe a stronger future for Oceana County is possible. The OCF is committed to connecting efforts and building the systems that help our community thrive. The next Free Dive is scheduled for Oct. 7, and more information is coming soon. For details about making a gift, now or through an estate plan, creating a named fund, or learning more about OCF programs and activities, call Carey at 231-869-3377 or visit the Foundation’s new website at www. oceanafoundation.org.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

VILLAGE OF SHELBY

218 N MICHIGAN AVE SHELBY, MI 49455

THE SHELBY PLANNING COMMISSION HEREBY GIVES NOTICE THAT A PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING A LOT SPLIT AT 172 S STATE STREET, SHELBY, MI, WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. FOR THE FOLLOWING PURPOSE:

The property owner, Robert Cain, is requesting approval to split 68 feet of the easternmost portion of the lot.

The property is located on plat #046-507-001-30 and is zoned R-2.

The public may submit comments concerning this item in writing to the Village of Shelby, 218 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, MI 49455, by emailing administrator@shelbyvillage.com, or by attending the meeting located at 218 N. Michigan Avenue Shelby, MI 49455. Written comments shall be read at the meeting and will become part of the minutes of the meeting. Additional information may be obtained by calling 231-861-4401.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

VILLAGE OF SHELBY

218 N MICHIGAN AVE SHELBY, MI 49455

THE SHELBY VILLAGE COUNCIL, ACTING AS THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS, HEREBY GIVES NOTICE THAT A PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING PROPERTY LOCATED AT 257 WILLOWSIDE DRIVE, SHELBY, MI, WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY, JULY 27, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. FOR THE FOLLOWING PURPOSE:

The property owners, Edward and Susan Parcell, are requesting approval to construct a 14 ft. by 25 ft. attached four-season room on the north side of their residence. The proposed addition would encroach 13.5 feet into the required rear yard setback, rendering it noncompliant with current zoning regulations and necessitating the requested variance.

The property is located on plat #046-495-010-00 and is zoned R-2.

Village Treasurer Miraya Gissell Diaz

Oceana County 4-H helps youth growing more than a garden

By Jennifer Payne Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator

From March through the end of June, Oceana County 4-H youth grew more than just a garden. Through the Growing Across Generations 4-H Gardening Club, members developed gardening skills, built relationships with senior volunteers, and gave back to their community while helping cultivate one of the largest gardens the Oceana County Council on Aging (OCCOA) has had in recent years.

Made possible through the Michigan 4-H Foundation Educational Gardening Grant, the club met several Mondays throughout the spring and early summer, bringing together youth and senior volunteers in the OCCOA Community Garden. The project gave youth the opportunity to experience every stage of gardening, from starting seeds indoors to transplanting seedlings and maintaining a

thriving community garden.

Members began the season by starting seeds before transplanting them into the garden. Weesies Brothers Garden Center in Hart was utilized to purchase additional vegetable and flower plants. Weesies Brothers Garden Center generously donated three flats of plants to the project, helping the club expand the garden even fur-

Hart School Board appoints Walsworth to vacancy

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Following interviews held June 15, the Hart Public School Board of Education appointed Jordan Walsworth of Hart to fill the vacancy left by former board member Chad Coker, who, after 13 years of service, had decided to resign in May. Walsworth will serve as interim board member until December 2026, when Coker’s term would have ended.

Four other candidates were also interviewed and considered for the open seat: Heather Hallack, Kaleb Klotz, Ashley Shafer and Joy Stuckey.

“We had multiple qualified candidates apply, and I’m grateful to each one for expressing an interest in serving Hart Public Schools,” said HPS Board President Jeff Schaner. “Mr.

Walsworth will bring his experience of serving on multiple boards, representing and considering various perspectives.”

Three other school board seats, currently held by Andy Carter, Kayla Dennert and Irma Hinojosa will be up for election Nov. 3, 2026 as well. Those interested in running for one of the four 4-year board member terms, to begin Jan. 1, 2027, will need to contact the Oceana County Clerk’s office by

Tuesday, July 21, 2026, if they wish to be listed on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.

Board members Mike Barefoot, Jeff Schaner and Steve Riley terms will run through December 31, 2028.

“We are excited to have Mr. Walsworth on our board and look forward to the contributions he will bring to our district,” said Hart Public Schools Executive Assistant of Administrative Affairs Kelli Campagna.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR

The Township of Crystal in Oceana County is searching for a person to fill the upcoming vacancy in the Township Supervisor position. Longtime Supervisor Lee Hyslop will be retiring from this post soon. The applicant must live in the township and be a registered voter.

STATUTORY DUTIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Moderates board and annual meetings

• Secretary to Board of Review

• Township’s legal agent

• Must maintain records of supervisor’s office

• Develops township budget

• Appoints some commission members

• May call special meetings

• May appoint a deputy

Those interested in serving their community should send their letter of interest/resume to:

Lee Hyslop, Supervisor Crystal Township 1499 E. Hammett Hart, MI 49420

ther. Together, the youth and senior volunteers planted more than 20 flats of vegetables along with a variety of flowers, creating a vibrant and productive garden. The group also established several perennial crops that will provide harvests for years to come, including blueberries, raspberries, and asparagus.

Throughout the 15-week program, youth learned about pollinators and the important role they play in food production, identified common garden pests, practiced routine garden maintenance, learned proper harvesting techniques, created garden art and discovered how planning, teamwork, and healthy soil all contribute to a successful garden. Beyond gardening skills, members gained valuable experience in community service while working alongside volunteers from another generation.

On June 29, the club celebrated an exciting milestone by harvesting its first peppers of the season, officially kicking off this year's garden harvest.

Throughout the summer, fresh produce from the garden will help stock the OCCOA while also being available for seniors who participate in programs and activities at the center to take home and enjoy.

Although the official SPIN Club has concluded, several youth members plan to continue volunteering in the community garden throughout the growing season. They are also encouraged to showcase what they have learned by exhibiting produce at the Oceana County Fair or through the Michigan State Fair 4-H Virtual Showcase.

Oceana County 4-H extends its sincere appreciation to the Michigan 4-H Foundation for providing the Educational Gardening Grant, Weesies Brothers Garden Center for their generous donation of plants, and the OCCOA staff and dedicated garden volunteers for sharing their time, knowledge, and passion throughout the project.

The success of the Growing Across Generations 4-H Gardening Club has laid the foundation for future community service opportunities. Next year, Oceana County 4-H hopes to expand volunteer efforts by inviting additional youth groups to participate in the OCCOA Community Garden. Members of this year's gardening club will help lead those efforts by serving as mentors and assisting with volunteer coordination. Youth organizations interested in participating are encouraged to contact the OCCOA or the Oceana County MSU Extension office to learn more.

Notice of Public Hearing on Increasing Property Taxes

The Township Board of the Crystal Township will hold a public hearing on a proposed increase of 0.1453 mills in the operating tax millage rate to be levied on property in 2026.

The hearing will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 5:50 p.m. at Crystal Township Hall, 1499 E. Hammett Road, Hart, MI.

The date and location of the meeting to take action on the proposed additional millage will be announced at this public meeting.

If adopted, the proposed additional millage will increase operating revenues from ad valorem property taxes 2.70% over such revenues generated by levies permitted without holding a hearing. If the proposed additional millage rate is not approved the operating revenue will increase by 1.02% over the preceding year’s operating revenue.

The taxing unit publishing this notice, and identified below, has complete authority to establish the number of mills to be levied from within its authorized millage rate.

This notice is published by:

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

1499 E. Hammett Rd. Hart, MI 49420 (231) 873-8336

Jordan Walsworth and Andy Carter

• Contributed Photo

• Claire Marshall/Echo

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

Greater Muskegon Jr. Tour swings through county

First 3 weeks of tour take place at Oceana courses Benona Shores, Oceana, Grand View

By Andy Roberts

The Greater Muskegon Junior Tour has made three stops in Oceana County already during its 2026 season. Its first three events of the summer took place at Benona Shores Golf Course, Oceana Golf Club and Grand View Golf Course respectively.

The tour travels throughout the Muskegon area each summer, inviting young golfers to hone their skills over the course of several weeks. The tour will take next week off before returning to action for four more Mondays, starting July 13 at Old Channel Trail Golf Course in Montague. The season concludes Aug. 3 at White Lake Golf Club in Whitehall.

Fifty golfers participated in the June 22 Oceana Golf Club meet, 29 of them in the boys 9th-12th grade division. Boys and girls have separate divisions for high school and middle school play, with players up to fifth grade competing in a coed division.

Ethan Balon, a Montague player, led the boys 9th-12th grade division, shooting a 78. Two county players were on the boys leaderboard; Gavin Macher, a Pentwater Falcon juniorto-be, placed third with an 82. Shelby’s Landyn Yanna posted a 107, tying for 24th place.

In the girls 9th-12th grade divi-

at Oceana courses in June.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

sion, Maddy Erndteman of Ludington posted an 89 to lead five players.

Landen DeRuiter of Hart was the other county golfer to compete June 22. He shot a nine-hole score of 65 while competing in the middle school division.

The action continued Monday at Grand View. Rhodes Verplank of Spring Lake led the boys high school division with a score of 74, just three over par. Macher and Yanna again competed from Oceana County; Macher tied for fifth place out of 19 players with an 81, and Yanna shot a 105 to place 19th.

In the girls high school division, Whitehall’s Riley Shafer led the way among 13 players with an 84. DeRuit-

Fishing Report

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

Looking to enter into one of the many fishing tournaments we have in Michigan? Visit the Fishing Tournament Information System page at michigan.gov/dnr/thingsto-do/fishing/fishing-tournament-information-system to find out more information on tournaments that are happening in your area.

Muskegon - Boat anglers found salmon action to be slow. A few salmon were caught 60 to 100 feet down in 100 to 200 feet of water. Green and blue spoons produced good results, along with white flasher-fly combinations. Lake trout were caught near the bottom in 150 to 200 feet of water. Pier anglers casting spoons caught freshwater drum. The outer two-thirds of the south breakwall remained closed due to lighthouse work.

Grand Haven - Salmon action was slow for boat anglers. A few steelhead and Chinook salmon were caught 60 to 120 feet down in 100 to 220 feet of water. A variety of presentations, including spoons, meat rigs and flasher-fly combinations, produced salmon. Pier anglers caught a few steelhead using shrimp or by casting orange spoons. Freshwater drum were caught while casting spoons or crankbaits in the channel. The north pier remained closed due to construction.

Ludington - Anglers targeting Chinook salmon caught a few fish straight out in 130 feet of water, 50 to 60 feet down, and near Big Sable Point in 140 to 200-plus feet of water, 35 to 60 feet down; however, fishing was very slow overall. A few steelhead, lake trout and coho salmon were also caught. Spoons and flasher-fly combinations produced results. Early morning bites were the most productive. The piers saw little to no action.

Parade of aces in county continues at The Colonial GC

er again played in the boys middle school division, shooting a nine-hole 61 to place 12th out of 14.

For more information about the tour, visit greatermuskegonjuniortour.com.

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

A young golfer and his adult caddie, above, line up a putt during the June 22 Greater Muskegon Junior Tour event at Oceana Golf Club in Shelby. Below, a player follows the flight of his tee shot as the other two members of his playing group look on.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Players from below 5th grade all the way up to the high school level compete at the Greater Muskegon Junior Tour, which hosted its first 3 rounds of the summer

Ramon Rosas made a hole-in-one last Thursday at The Colonial Golf Course, connecting on the course’s 5th hole. • Courtesy Photo

Austin Tyndall made a hole-in-one Wednesday at The Colonial Golf Course on the course’s 5th hole.

• Courtesy Photo

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Kallie Sapp takes 2nd place at NHD nationals

Izzy Causie earns honorable mention; four Whitehall students compete in all

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

First-time National History Day National Contest competitor Kallie Sapp, a Whitehall seventh-grader, delivered impressive results at the June 14-18 contest in College Park, Md., placing second in the nation in Junior Individual Performance.

Sapp's performance was entitled Prologue or Epilogue? How the Chernobyl Nuclear Explosion Revolutionized Modern Radiation Science. Her second-place performance earned Sapp a silver medal and $500 in prize money.

Sapp was one of four Whitehall NHD team members to compete nationally. Izzy Causie, a seventh-year team member and fourth-time national competitor, placed in the top 20 in Senior Individual Website, earning honorable mention and the Senior Division Outstanding Affiliate Award for her website, entitled Buckle Up: The Seat Belt that Revolutionized Automotive Safety Standards. Alexandra Risthouse and Annabelle George also competed from the Whitehall team, teaming up in the Senior Group Exhibit category.

Sapp said she advanced to the runoffs, which determine the final placement in your division, by ranking first among the 10 competitors in her pool. There were 86 total competitors in her Junior Individual Performance category.

cake."

While this year marked Sapp's first trip to the NHD national competition, she completed her third year on the Whitehall NHD team. In her first year, she said, she took first place in the youth division at state, but the youth division does not compete in the national event. Last year, Sapp was an alternate for the national competition.

The experience was terrific for Sapp, whose mom Kellie joined her for the week. She was able to stay in the dormitories at the University of Maryland with other competitors from Michigan, and the group practiced their presentations with one another while spending downtime playing card games and board games. The week also included a visit to Washington, D.C. and a tour of the National Mall.

"From the beginning of the year, it was, 'I'm going to go to nationals this year,'" Sapp said. "It was a big year for me. It meant a lot to be at nationals. When I found out I was in the runoffs, that was icing on the

"The entire trip was moving," Sapp said. "There were a lot of great experiences, traveling through D.C., seeing the Flight 93 Memorial, staying in the dorms, meeting people from all over the world, it was really cool. It was an amazing experience."

As for her presentation, which she performed at April's White Lake Area Historical Society meeting along with several of her teammates, Sapp said she made only minor tweaks since April. The presentation saw Sapp play several different characters, including then-KGB Chairman Yuri Andropov, who attempted to alert Soviet authorities about flaws in the facility's

construction years ahead of time. With only 10

construction years ahead of time. With only 10 minutes to perform the entire skit, time management was

to perform

Firefighter Dan Roesler honored at retirement

Asst. fire chief retires after 46 years; nephews move up as family tradition of service continues

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The Montague Fire Department hosted a retirement gathering Monday afternoon for Dan Roesler, who stepped down after 46 years in the department, most recently as assistant fire chief.

Roesler is just one of many members of his family who has served in the department. Dan's father Don was also an assistant chief, and served for even longer than Dan did - 52 years, a mark Dan often told Don he was not going to try to top.

sistant fire chief and captain positions respectively.

However, the Roesler connection to Montague Fire will be continuing going forward, with Dan's nephews Drew and Dennis II moving into the as-

sistant fire chief and captain positions respectively. (The captain position was recently vacated by longtime firefighter Jonathon Degen - also the White Lake Ambulance Authority director - who was appointed fire chief after Ron Anderson stepped down from that position.)

(The captain position was recently vacated by longtime firefighter Jonathon Degen - also the White Lake Ambulance Authority director - who was appointed fire chief after Ron Anderson stepped down from that position.)

Cake, cupcakes and punch flowed freely at the gathering as well-wishers, coworkers and family members came by to honor Dan Roesler's years of

service.

Dan said he began his fire department career as a volunteer while in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Florida. He worked for the department in Milton, and after his service ended and he moved back to Montague, decided, "What the heck," and joined the department here while also working for the

Michigan State Police, from which he retired in 2016.

He felt the time was right to retire from the fire department, saying, "It's a young man's job. It just takes a lot out of you, getting up in the middle of the night and going on calls, carrying people up and down stairs. Enough is enough."

Drew Roesler said it is a tribute to Dan and his devotion to service that he was able to continue in that "young man's job" for so many years, saying

minutes

the entire skit, time management was

Whitehall NHD competitor Kallie Sapp (left) accepts her national second-place award from NHD executive director Dr. Cathy Gorn at the conclusion of the national competition in June. • Courtesy Photo

Whitehall NHD coach Jan Klco (center) celebrates with the two NHD national competitors to win awards at the meet - Izzy Causie (left) and Kallie Sapp. Causie placed in the top 20 in her division while Sapp placed 2nd nationally.

Courtesy Photo

Whitehall NHD coach Jan Klco (left) and Whitehall's NHD national competitors celebrate after the event's completion in June. From left are Alexandra Risthouse, Kallie Sapp, Izzy Causie and Annabelle George. • Courtesy Photo

Roesler

Members of the community turned out to the Montague Fire District building Monday for a retirement reception for deputy chief Dan Roesler. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Dan Roesler is shown while working on a call during his Montague Fire District career. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

White

Roesler Members of the community turned out to the Montague Fire District building Monday for a retirement reception for deputy chief Dan Roesler. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Dan Roesler is shown while working on a call during his Montague Fire District career. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Roesler

Members of the community turned out to the Montague Fire District building Monday for a retirement reception for deputy chief Dan Roesler. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Dan Roesler is shown while working on a call during his Montague Fire District career. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Two deaths reported during, after Electric Forest

Newborn baby's body discovered in portable bathroom; suicide reported Tuesday

Two deaths were reported during and after the Electric Forest festival, one taking place during the festival and one after it.

A newborn baby was found dead in a portable bathroom facility Sunday morning during the Electric Forest music festival in Rothbury, the Michigan State Police announced on its X/ Twitter account Sunday afternoon.

According to the release, "the body was discovered by an employee of the

Retirement

repetition and training helped keep him sharp.

"We train twice a month," Drew said. "We go through drills. We go through equipment. We keep ourselves familiar. We run, on average, 500 calls a year, so having the opportunity to go through and touch the equipment and go out and practice drills and stuff help us to keep our skill sets up. That's how I think, over those 46 years, he's been a part of so many trainings and helped to keep himself as sharp as he could."

restroom vending company during routine maintenance."

The police referred to the deceased infant as a "neonate" in its report; the word is used to refer to a baby under a month old. According to a WOOD-TV report Wednesday morning, an autopsy showed the baby was born alive, and not stillborn.

An investigation is ongoing. The police encourages anyone with information about the incident to submit a tip at michigan.gov/michtip. The police are concerned for the health of the mother of the child and seek more information about the circumstances of the birth.

"We appreciate the public's cooper-

chief himself for 16 years.

Dan said it was a point of pride that the next generation of Roeslers have also moved into the fire department life - in addition to Drew and Dennis II, another nephew, Drake, is now a lieutenant with the department, as is his own son Daniel IInoting that it's a job you have to be devoted to in order to be good at it.

Service is in the Roesler blood, said Drew, who is also the Montague Township clerk. Drew's father Dennis was fire

NHD nationals

a big factor in her success.

"I added a little bit about the fall of the Soviet Union and how Chernobyl impacted it," Sapp said. "The judging at the national level, they really like all the varied perspectives of stuff. Because they only give us 10 minutes, it's pretty difficult to throw in all the different perspectives. I think next year, what I'll have to do is cut down on the amount of characters I have and put in the different perspectives via narration points."

NHD coach Jan Klco said that during Sapp's research, she found two key Soviet documents that she used in her performance and interviewed Maria Chmrlarova, a former Czechoslovakian resident, and Bill Kurtis, the first American reporter allowed to visit Chernobyl in 1989, for their personal perspectives.

Sapp has explored topics related to the environment and ecosystems each of her three years in NHD. Her first two topics were plastic pollution and the invention of the plastic bag and, last year, the affect the sturgeon had on Native American cultures. Clearly, the environment is a passion project of Sapp's.

"It started in fifth grade," Sapp said of her interest in the environment. "I don't even remember what it was, but when I did my performance and got to write it, it opened my eyes to what was happening in the world. Because of that, that sprouted the thought that, 'You know what? This is a big problem and a lot more people need to know about it.'"

According to Klco, the close to 3,000 students that made it to the national competition represented just half of one percent of the 600,000-plus students who began the process last fall. The competitors at nationals came from all over the U.S. its territories and several other countries.

Klco encourages any area student in grades 4-12 that's interested in joining the team next year to reach out via email at janklco@whitehallschools.net.

“Many school district and community members supported the students in their endeavors, serving as practice judges, offering interviews, and contributing to the team financially," Klco said in a press release. "We wouldn’t be so successful without your enthusiastic support."

ation and ask that people avoid speculation on social media out of respect for the investigation and those affected," the police stated.

The festival addressed the incident in a post on its Facebook page Sunday.

"Forest Family, it causes us so much pain to have to share this difficult news with you," the post read in part. "HQ is heartbroken and knows that our Forest Family is as well."

Tuesday morning, a 28-year-old man, Jerard Jackson, from Illinois, was reported to have died by suicide after his body was found near the Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail in Rothbury. Jackson was reported missing Monday after having been last seen

at 10 a.m. According to the Michigan State Police, Jackson had reported an alleged criminal incident involving a friend of his, but after interviews of all parties involved, police determined there was no evidence a crime had been committed.

The police said there is no evidence of foul play in Jackson's death, though an investigation is ongoing pending final report from the medical examiner.

Jackson's cell phone and other belongings were left behind after he departed the festival, and his rental vehicle was located with his wallet and keys inside.

"I grew up with it in the household," Drew said. "I just took the opportunity to join alongside my family and friends, and to provide the service to the community is the biggest part that I enjoy. I live in town here. To be able to serve with friends, it's a proud moment to help someone out."

Drew said he feels like he grew up at Montague Fire, so while not everyone there is a blood relation - even though it can sometimes seem like it - it feels very much like a branch of his family.

"We are all family," Drew said. "We have peo-

ple that have raised me in this fire station, and I've known them my entire life. There's a lot of people with 40 years in the department who are still here today, and I'm 40 years old. So they've raised me from a very young age, and I feel very comfortable being at a scene with them, and I have a lot of trust in their ability."

In addition to the veterans on staff, the recent graduations of Maddison Balon, Kaylan Easton, and Kendal Degen from the fire academy bring some fresh perspective to the department, providing a good mix to the department.

"We have a really good working relationship, and it's a good level of experience with some younger generation bringing fresh ideas," Drew said. "They're bringing some of these new things to us, which is important. As things evolve, you have to keep up on stuff and they're very knowledgeable because they've been through the training more recently."

Montague Fire deputy chief Dan Roesler was presented this ceremonial firefighter axe upon his retirement from Montague Fire District this year.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Saturday, July 4

Montague Farmer's Market is open, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

White Lake Area Fourth of July Parade, 10 a.m. Parade goes from Whitehall City Hall to Montague City Hall. Dozens of festive entries are anticipated.

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

Dave Burel performs @ White Lake Eagles, 6 p.m.

Glitter & Sawdust performs @ Wayside Bar and Grill, 8 p.m.

July 4 Fireworks @ Twin Lake County Park, 9:45 p.m.

Sunday, July 5

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

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

White Lake Community Garden Work Day, 5-8 p.m. Bring gloves, a water bottle, a shovel, and a wheelbarrow if you have one. Stop by whenever you’re able and stay for as long or as little as you’d like.

Monday, July 6

Camp MADL @ MADL Montague, 10:30 a.m. Camp MADL brings the summer camp experience indoors with songs, crafts, games, and classic

Community Calendar

camp fun. No mosquitoes allowed.

White Lake Community Library welcomes knitters and crocheters for a weekly gathering, 3 p.m. Knitters and crocheters are invited to bring whatever they're working on to this casual meetup, a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and enjoy good company.

American Folk Music: Old Time in the Current Time @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Michigan musician Ben Traverse brings the story of 'old time' music to life through song. Registration appreciated @ wlclib.org.

Fetch Brewing Running Group meets at 6 p.m. All are welcome to participate at their own pace and distance. Strollers also welcome.

FAN Club @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m. Free music performances in the parking lot.

Tuesday, July 7

Baby Time @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Ages 0-2 welcome for songs, music, and movement.

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

White Lake Community Library hosts Pop-Up Storytime @ Hilt's

Registration open for

Colors

for Hope 5K

The Ava VanderStelt Scholarship Colors for Hope 5K will take place Saturday, July 25, beginning at the Montague Bandshell. All proceeds from the Colors for Hope 5K provide scholarships for local high schools and support Hope Squads, peer-led suicide prevention programs that focus on educating, training, and teaching peer intervention to help combat suicide and mental health issues in our schools.

The event begins at 8:30 a.m. with a welcome and prayer, followed shortly by the color toss and, at 9 a.m., the race itself.

The cost to participate in the race is $30 for timed runners and $20 to walk. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in several age groups in both female and male divisions. More information at runsignup.com/Race/MI/Montague/ ColorsForHope5K.

Landing, 11 a.m. Join Library Beth for stories, songs, rhymes, and activities.

The ACWL-Nuveen Free Summer Concert Series continues @ Montague Bandshell, 7 p.m. Asamu Johnson and the Associates of the Blues perform.

Wednesday, July 8

Artists on the Sidewalk @ Dune Grass Gallery in Montague, 11 a.m. Bring your own art project, supplies, chair, and umbrella and get tips and tricks from other artists.

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

White Lake Kid Crafters welcome to bring their best creativity and imagination to "unearth" some awesome creations @ White Lake Community Library, 1 p.m.

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

Thursday, July 9

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.

Unearthing Robotics @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m.

The Whitehall Middle School Robo

Vikes will have a bunch of games and activities prepared to teach all about archaeology and how robotics fits in.

Fetch Cycling Group meets at 6 p.m. All skill levels welcome.

Friday, July 10

Outdoor Explorers @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Play outdoors no matter the weather. Bring water, sunscreen and appropriate clothing.

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!

Llama Weaving with Knit & Spin @ MADL Montague, 3 p.m. Kids can learn how to make a weaving project on a cute cardboard llama. Registration required @ madl.org.

Money Soup Live performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

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

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File

Tuesday Storytime comes to Hilt's Landing

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Storytime has been hitting the road this summer, with pop-up storytime events at local parks once a week. This week, everyone is invited to join the fun at Hilt’s Landing at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 7. Hilt’s Landing is located at 8637 Durham Road, off Holton-Whitehall Road just east of the expressway. (Now owned by the school, this was the site of the former Michigan Heritage Park museum center.) Library Beth will be there with stories, songs, rhymes, and other activities for kids of all ages. Next week, July 14, the fun moves to the White River Light Station!

kids in the local school-age childcare program. While the $830,000 in grant funds are being used primarily to expand access to quality schoolage care by creating more openings and keeping costs to families low, a small portion is being used to provide busing for these storytime field trips. The events have been a great success so far, reaching students who might not be familiar with the library and strengthening the partnership between the schools and the library. We can’t wait for the grand finale, when the students have their final storytime field trip - this time right to the library!

“Unearthing Robotics”

Family Night July 9

This year, as part of the Out-ofSchool-Time grant awarded to the library and White Lake Area Community Education, a second session of these pop-up storytimes is being held in the afternoon each week for all the

Love robotics? Love archaeology? Love both? Come to the library at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9 for a special Family Night program with the Whitehall Middle School RoboVikes! The team will bring a variety of games and activities to showcase the role of robotics in archaeology. This will be a hands-on event for kids of all ages, and a chance for parents to learn more about the local robotics programs. Everyone is welcome and registration is not required - just join us if you can.

FUN FACT: White Lake Robotics has seen tremendous growth since it began in 2014. In the last year alone, participation increased by 80% and included the addition of eight new Lego Robotics teams for kids in K-8 plus a second high school team to accommodate more students. The 2025-26 team qualified for the statewide competition, coming home with a very respectable 33rd place and the Team Sustainability Award!

Lake Michigan Coastal Dunes: History, Science, and Protection Towering above the shoreline, the Lake Michigan dunes tell a story millions of years in the making. The coastal sand dunes along Lake Michigan form the largest freshwater dune system in the world and are among Michigan’s most remarkable natural treasures. Join us Wednesday, July 15 at 5:30 p.m. to explore how these dunes were formed, why they matter ecologically, and how they have shaped the history and identity of our state.

Participants will learn about the history of state dune protection laws, local landmarks like the once-massive Pigeon Hill on the south side of the Muskegon channel, and the many stories that connect people to

these unique landscapes. The talk will also include how the dunes have been used, and sometimes overused, over time, and the importance of protecting and caring for the dunes for future generations.

Registration for this event is appreciated; visit wlclib.org/calendar to save your seat.

Speaker Tanya Cabala is a community and Great Lakes environmental advocate with more than 30 years of experience, including work to protect Michigan’s coastal sand dunes through research, education, and public engagement. She was a longtime newspaper columnist and is serving her 15th year on the Whitehall City Council.

DeMumbrum

Runner Cooper Stout receives a dose of color during last year's Colors for Hope 5K. This year's event is slated for Saturday, July 25.

Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

R-P legend Ross to lead Montague girls

Rockets' all-time leading scorer returns to West Michigan after impressive collegiate playing career

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Lauren Ross traveled all over the Midwest - all over the country, reallywhile playing Division I college basketball, but she always had her mind on coming home to West Michigan, and now she has after being named Montague girls basketball coach in June.

Ross takes over from Jess DeBruin, the Wildcats' head athletic trainer, who stepped down from coaching after three seasons and will continue in her position as trainer.

Ross starred at Reeths-Puffer, where she graduated in 2020 as the program's all-time leading scorer, and played at Western Michigan, Michigan State and Purdue-Fort Wayne. At her last stop, she became the first Division I player to ever lead the country in three-point percentage and free throw percentage in a season. She earned a bachelor's degree at WMU and a master's at PFW and will work in the MHS counseling office.

While earning her master's, Ross was an assistant coach at PFW last season, but because of her desire to return home, she knew her future in coaching was at the high school level.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

•

When Montague's job opened, Ross' connection with Wildcats' boys coach Nick Thaler - who's also a WMU Bronco and, while coaching the Montague girls, brought one of his teams to visit Ross when she was rehabbing a knee injury during her time in Kalamazoo - made her a natural fit. In addition to that connection, Ross said her mother Kim is a Montague alum.

"I reached out to him right away when I saw that there was an opening and I just went through the process and decided whether or not this is what I wanted to do," Ross said. "I was able to have a little open gym with the girls prior to taking the job. I saw the potential. The four-win season last year doesn't

paint a picture of what this program can do. It's not going to happen overnight, but I think we can get somewhere."

Like many coaches, Ross has a catchy way to sum up her coaching philosophy - character, commitment and championship habits. She's jumped into the program with both feet, coaching the Wildcat JVs at last week's JV girls basketball league tournament in Whitehall and helping run the Montague basketball youth camp the rest of the week.

"Character's who we are, commitment is how we go about everything in our daily actions, and the championship habits are just all the little things that are going to lead us to success when things get hard," Ross said.

Thaler knew Ross was a great bas-

ketball player when she put her name in for the girls coaching job, but over the course of her interview what stood out to him was her desire to give her time and her talent in the service of helping the next generation of players.

"She is the type of individual that's going to pour into our kids, and that's what we want in the building," Thaler said. "That's what we want for our programs, is somebody that's going to be invested and cares about the kids, and she does. She's already put in a ton of time with the girls and it's been great, just seeing her grow into that leadership role.

Ross hired continued on page 5

Conklin ready to take helm for the Vikings

JV coach past 5 seasons, Conklin was hired to lead varsity in May

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall has had a lot of success promoting its JV boys basketball coaches to the big chair in the recent past, so it made sense that it decided to do so again in May, announcing that Marcelo Conklin will succeed Christian Subdon as the Vikings' head man after five years coaching the JV.

Both Subdon and his predecessor Nate Aardema moved up from JV to varsity head coach, and Subdon, who is still the athletic director for the Vikings, thinks Conklin has the tools to replicate their success.

"He's a relentless worker," Subdon said. "He hit the ground running and he's already got the guys in the gym. They've already played 20-plus games, and (they played more last) weekend at Grand Valley (State). It really is incredible to see somebody that wasn't from here and jumped into all things Whitehall."

Unlike Subdon and Aardema, Conklin did not graduate from Whitehall; he played for the Fruitport Trojans. He was only 19 years old when Subdon tabbed him as JV coach, but the Whitehall culture quickly impressed him.

"It was just the community, honestly," Conklin said. "The kids all got along with each other. The parents had great support in the program, and in other (Whitehall) programs as well. From going to (other sports') games, it was being part of a community that cares about each other and wants the best of everything for Whitehall. The kids care about wanting to get better, playing hard and competing."

Subdon said Conklin was given more than he was probably ready for when he took the reins of the Viking JVs, but "he excelled past all expectations." As Aardema did for him, Subdon gave Conklin tasks that got him ready to take over a varsity program.

"He did everything we needed him to do," Subdon said. "In the interview process, he showed he's ready to put his spin on the program."

In addition to coaching the JVs the last few years, Conklin

has spent plenty of time on the varsity bench during games and said he made time to be part of the varsity's practices whenever he was able to.

Conklin's philosophy doesn't sound much different than Subdon's; he emphasizes competing hard and making sure if opponents are going to beat the Vikings, they're going to earn itand feel the aftereffects.

"I just want the guys to compete, to play hard no matter what they do," Conklin said. "I want them to practice hard. I want teams that play us to know that they're going to have to work for everything. We're going to build on toughness and competing hard."

Subdon said relationshipbuilding is a strength of Conklin's, citing his work in the middle school as a paraprofessional working with special education students - a job Subdon said he's even better at doing than he is at coaching basketball.

"I wish people could see him in that role because of how great he is," Subdon said. "He's phenomenal."

One nice thing for Conklin is, as the former JV coach,

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

his first couple of varsity teams will consist mostly of players he's already built those relationships with as they came up through the program - guys like seniorsto-be Alex Winczewski and Pierce Westerlund and junior-to-be Rex Pumford. "I've coached all these guys," Conklin said. "I work in the middle school too, so I know those basketball players. I'm pretty confident in being able to teach them to play hard, play the game of basketball and compete, building on the program Christian and Nate left."

Conklin is fired up to get on the court for the coming season, and he'll have help whenever he needs it from Subdon - but the AD suspects it won't be long before that help won't be all that necessary.

"He's done a lot of the things I believe in, because it's what we've preached the last five years," Subdon said. "He's put his own spin on some things and asked me my thoughts, and my thoughts are, 'Go for it.' He has a lot of great ideas on a lot of things. I think he's going to do better than me, and I'm excited to watch him grow."

Montague coach Lauren Ross directs a Wildcat JV player after making a substitution during a Monday, June 22 game in the Whitehall girls basketball JV league tournament. Ross, the all-time leading scorer at Reeths-Puffer, was announced as the Wildcats' new varsity coach in June. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague coach Lauren Ross oversees a game of Knockout during the Montague youth basketball camp Tuesday, June 23. Ross was named Wildcats' girls coach in mid-June and immediately began participating in program activities.

New Whitehall coach Marcelo Conklin is shown smiling during a 2025 varsity game against Fremont. Conklin, the Vikings' JV coach the past 5 seasons, was hired as the new varsity coach in May.

Montague brings dozens to free hoops camp

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The Montague youth basketball camp last week, which took place Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, was that rarest of kids sports opportunities - one without any cost attached.

There was, of course, a pragmatic reason Wildcats' boys coach Nick Thaler, who oversaw the camp alongside new girls coach Lauren Ross, pushed to make the camp free; it's easier to grow participation in your sport the more kids can access it. (And from that perspective, it was a roaring success, as about 80 kids turned out for the camp.)

But, Thaler also simply felt he should do it for the kids who wanted to come out.

"I made it free because I think that's the right thing to do for kids, for the school," Thaler said during Tuesday's session. "I think that if you're trying to grow the numbers in your sports, there's already a financial burden for a lot of kids because they're paying for everything. What better way to get more involvement for kids than just biting the cost of it and and making it free?

"That's the thing, it's about the kids... If you invest in the kids, your school is going to be that much better. You can see it. We've got 80 kids here. They're

•

having fun. They're sweating. They're having a good time. That's a big thing. If you're trying to grow your numbers, I think that's the way to to do it."

There was skill work at the Montague camp, of course, but to keep the kids engaged, fun mini-games were part of the package. Last Tuesday's session ended with the group dividing into six groups and playing games of Knockout, the popular game where players try to hit a shot before the player ahead of them in line does so.

The huge turnout for the camp did create some challenges. No one who's around kids regularly needs to be told how difficult it is to corral that amount

of them. Being around teenagers is both Thaler's and Ross' jobs, though, so they were able to handle it.

"It's just structure," Thaler said. "Kids nowadays, you've got to keep them moving because their attention spans are shorter. You've just got to keep them moving from task to task. Even with this many kids and the things that we're doing, it's challenging trying to talk over them and getting them to listen and engage in what you're doing. Those are things that we'll talk about to improve the flow as we develop this into bigger-picture ideas that we have for the entire basketball program."

There are plenty of summer opportunities to get better - at least, out-

side of MHSAA-mandated dead week, which happened to fall this week. Montague will certainly be availing itself of some of those opportunities. Thaler said, though, that as much as anything, teams can improve just by getting in the gym and being together.

"I think if you're worrying about what your record is in the summer, you're missing the boat," Thaler said. "It's more about just getting in the gym getting better, building a relationship with your kids, and going out and competing. You do those things, you're going to reap rewards come November and December, and into the later months. That's a big part of your team bonding and your team chemistry."

WLGC hosts Drive, Chip & Putt qualifier

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — A total of 85 young players turned out to compete on an immaculate weather morning Saturday at the White Lake Golf Club's local qualifier in the PGA Drive, Chip & Putt event.

Golf's answer to football's Punt, Pass & Kick and baseball's Pitch, Hit & Run, Drive, Chip & Putt was launched in 2013 to promote golf among young players.

The WLGC qualifier was the first step in a set of qualifiers that eventually lead the top performers to the 2027 national finals, which will take place at Augusta National Golf Club during the Masters tournament.

Players attempted three shots in each of the three skills (driving, chipping and putting), accruing up to 25 points per attempt. The top two finishers in each age group (7-9, 10-11, 12-13 and 14-15) advanced to a sub-regional qualifier.

Boys age 14-15 qualifiers were Charles Alt of Spring Lake, who scored 116 total points, and Brennan Andres of Spring Lake, who scored 113. Age 12-13 qualifiers were Greyson Diesing

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

of Chelsea (110 points) and Rhyenn Woods of Muskegon (95). Age 10-11 qualifiers were Hudson Swan of Grand Rapids (95 points) and Eddie Janson of North Muskegon (93), and age 7-9 qualifiers were Justin Xu of Novi (83 points) and Charles Sikkenga of Muskegon (66).

In the girls division, Abigail Offer of Ada was the only competitor among ages 14-15 players, so she advanced by default with 87 points. The 12-13 girls qualifiers were Addyson Bentley of Greenville (112 points) and Au-

dree Horstman of Grandville (85). The 10-11 qualifiers were Madeline Lee of Grand Rapids (72 points) and Augusta Schwander of Ada (57), and for ages 7-9, Charlotte McGuire of Ferndale (49 points) and Emma Eller of Norton Shores (39) qualified.

Those players will compete in Kalamazoo Friday, Aug. 21, and the top players at that sub-regional will advance to a regional qualifier at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel, Ind. on Sunday, Sept. 20.

as often as possible is really going to be important for me."

•

"When she first came in for her interview and ran a practice right on the spot, one day went by, and kids were already asking me, 'Where's Coach Lo at?' They were already asking where she was, which is obviously a sign that they liked the things that she was doing."

Ross didn't have to wait long to prove her desire to provide her time to young Montague athletes, as she coached the Wildcat JVs during the final two days of Whitehall's JV girls basketball league,

continued from page 4

in which Montague participated, then turned around and aided Thaler in running the Montague youth basketball camp the rest of that week, herding dozens of young players around the Wildcat gym.

"I think (it was important to) have them see my face right away and show them that I'm willing to just do whatever they need right away," Ross said. "I think getting to know them and getting to build relationships as early and

Ross' arrival is significant for several reasons, but two stick out to Thaler. First is that, for the first time in a long time at Montague, both basketball coaches will be working in the district full-time, making it easy to, as coaches say, recruit the hallways and build enthusiasm for their team on a day-to-day basis.

Second, the hope is that Ross will provide continuity to the girls basketball program, which has had very little of it in recent years. The Wildcats have evidence of what the team can do when a coach sticks around; Cody Kater led the team to conference and district cham-

pionships during a five-year term in the position. No one has gone more than three seasons since, but Ross creates optimism for a bright future.

"Even though I've really never stepped foot in those doors, it just felt like home," Ross said. "It just felt like a place where I wanted to give back and honestly, I'm so thankful that it's in West Michigan, because I think there's such a need. This area has done so much for me in my career and supported me throughout every step of the journey, so I think being able to give back to these girls and to the next generation is big for me."

Young Montague basketball campers take part in a game of Knockout during the Tuesday, June 23 session of the camp. About 80 kids came to the four-day camp.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague boys coach Nick Thaler highfives a young camper at the Montague basketball camp Tuesday, June 23. The free camp drew dozens of kids for skill development and games.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

A young player lines up his putt attempt during Saturday's Drive, Chip & Putt competition at White Lake Golf Club.

Players were able to practice driving on the driving range at White Lake Golf Club prior to taking their shots at Saturday's PGA Drive, Chip & Putt qualifier.

Top-3 finishers in the boys 12-13 age group, from left, Rhyenn Woods, Simon Alt and Greyson Diesing celebrate with their ribbons at Saturday's Drive, Chip & Putt.

Photo courtesy of WLGC

Echoes of History: Maritime historical highlights (Pt.

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Parts 1 and 2 of this article ran in the June 19 and 26 issues of the Mirror.

Maritime ’90, set for Aug. 22-26, promised plenty of fun activities, some old and some new. The softball tournament continued, canoe races were held at the Galleon near the channel and a Biathlon had a course in Montague.

The festival kicked off Wednesday, Aug. 22, with a “Wild Video Dance Party”. Combine a 5,000-watt concert surround sound system, a 200-square-foot video screen, dazzling lights and special effects along with the favorite music videos and what occurred was like a live MTV. A live VJ and Sunny 104.5 FM DJ were on hand.

The West Michigan Water Ski Association once again performed. An Arts and Crafts show was held on Friday and Saturday.

Popular Lansing area rock and roll band the “Sea Cruisers” played music from the 1950s-1980s Friday and Saturday night.

Saturday was the second annual children’s dog contest. The traveling zoo from John Ball Park allowed children to see and touch a mammal and reptile and zoo personnel talked about the animals.

A sub eating contest was sponsored by Subway between four-person teams

from Montague and Whitehall.

During Maritime '90, a 16-team men’s double elimination softball tournament was held at Montague Township Park.

A teen dance party for 19-year-olds and under was held Wednesday, Aug, 21, from 7-11 p.m. to get the 1991 Maritime Festival started.

Lumberjacks from the Great Lakes Timber Show provided three 45-minute shows on Thursday and Friday. The show featured log rolling, axe throwing, tree climbing and sawing. An old-fashioned crosscut saw raced against a modern chainsaw. Chainsaw carving was also part of the show.

“Dr. Zap” Energy Show from Impressions 5 Science Museum was featured Saturday, Aug. 24 as well as the Water Ski Show. The 3rd Annual Biathlon was held at Montague Township Park Sunday, Aug. 25.

August 19-22 were the dates for the 1992 Maritime Festival. Festival goers enjoyed the familiar activities, including the water ski show, music in the beverage tent, a teen dance, trout pond, fish boil, trolley rides, arts and crafts, Children’s dog contest, sailing charters, shrimp boil and softball tournament.

New that year was karaoke, Thursday from 7-11 p.m. The first Maritime Doubles Shuffle-board tournament was held on Thursday and Friday. Young and old alike had a fun time at the mu-

sical shows by singer/ventriloquist Marc Thomas and Max the Moose. There was also a sailing regatta as well.

Keeping the favorite events, adding new ones and bringing back some of the old ones were on the minds of the 1993 Maritime Festival sponsors. The event opened Wednesday, Aug. 18, with a teen talent show and dance.

After an absence of several years, the Venetian Parade returned.

The second annual White Lake Maritime Shuffleboard Tournament Thursday and Friday, Aug. 19-20, was held at Montague Township Park. There was the shrimp boil, karaoke, and an arts and crafts show. The “Sea Cruisers”, a popular rock and roll band, performed. Children’s activities began with the trout pond. The children’s dog contest was held and Marc Thomas and Max the Moose returned.

The Randy Lorenz Memorial Softball Tournament began Friday. The 16-team tournament continued Saturday.

Friday was a “Cruise Night” for owners of collectible vehicles, many of which were in Saturday’s car show. Saturday also included a sailing regatta and fishing tournament.

There was also clogging, the fish boil and the traditional water ski show.

As no information about either of the Maritime Festivals in 1994 or 1995 could be found, we’ll jump ahead to the 1996 festival that was held Aug. 15-17.

On Thursday morning around 8 a.m. the two-day shuffleboard tournament began at the Montague Township Park. The festival officially opened at 5 p.m. Thursday with food, beverages and evening entertainment by the country western band “Tuscon”.

Arts and crafts vendors were on hand Friday and Saturday. A softball tournament began Friday and continued through Saturday.

The fourth annual Friday night car cruise lined up at 6 p.m. and left the city at 7 p.m. heading to Stoney Lake. On Saturday the car show returned to Covell Park and the public was able to view the cars from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The shrimp boil was held Friday evening and the fish boil on Saturday. Marc Thomas and Max the Moose hosted a children’s sing-along.

A sailing regatta took place Saturday afternoon, as well as a water ski show. A Venetian parade floated across the lake in the evening. Rock and roll music from the 1950s and 1960s was provided by the “Sea Cruisers” Friday and Saturday nights.

The 1998 Maritime Festival sailed in Aug. 20-22. The shuffleboard tournament began Thursday at 9 a.m. at Montague Township Park and concluded there on Saturday. Live music featuring vocals, guitars and hammer dulcimer began at 7:30 p.m.

Rocket college signings wrap-up

A total of 15 Reeths-Puffer athletes signed to college sports in May. Six of their photos ran in last week's Mirror - here are the rest of the 15 Rocket signees. All photos courtesy of Joe Lane

Marvin Moore, Kalamazoo College basketball

Emcee McLaurin, Hood College track

Jack Yonkman, Muskegon Comm. College track

Trent Plummer, Illinois Tech Lacrosse

Owen Ritsema, Muskegon Comm. Colege soccer

Zac Sampson, Univ. of Sunderland (Great Britain) Soccer

Lainey McDaniel, Ferris State University softball

Abby Machinski, Muskegon Comm. College volleyball

London Rankin, Davenport Univ. track

Recent local police activity

hit her. He said that when she went to the ground, he was on top of her, holding her down. Officers advised that due to the conflicting statements, a report would be sent to the prosecutor's office for possible charges.

June 27

Whitehall Police Report

June 25

At approximately 4:26 p.m., officers were called to the 300 block of S Lake St. on a report initially called in as a vandalism in progress, but upon investigation, officers learned it was a vehicle crash. Initial reports indicated a vehicle was traveling southbound on Lake St. near Crosswinds Marina when it struck a mailbox. Officers located the involved vehicle, a gray Jeep, and made contact with the driver, a 42-year-old man from Detroit. Upon speaking with him, officers learned he had just worked an 18hour security shift at Electric Forest and had fallen asleep while driving. There were no signs of intoxication and no injuries were reported.

June 26

At approximately 9:10 p.m., officers were called to the 1200 block of E Colby St. on an assault and battery report. Officers made contact with a female subject on the scene, who advised that a male subject she had been visiting, a 33-year-old man from Whitehall, assaulted her. She admitted to have taken a bottle of fragrance from his home prior to him striking her in the back of the head. Officers made contact with the offender, who admitted to the offense but didn't know how many times he had

At approximately 9:48 a.m., officers were called to the 1200 block of E Colby St. on a well-being check. Officers had been there 20 minutes prior on a suspicious occurrence from the same reporting party. The party, a 63-year-old man from Whitehall, appeared to be under the influence, as he was telling dispatch that multiple subjects were nearby trying to break in the home and get him. Officers noted the lack of other people present and contacted Trinity Health, which transported him for a mental health evaluation.

June 28

At approximately 10:53 p.m., officers assisted the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office and White Lake Ambulance Authority staff in the 900 block of Old US31. Initial calls noted a subject on scene who had apparently overdosed on PCP and other drugs. Ambulance staff requested assistance with the combative and erratic patient. Officers arrived to assist WLAA staff prior to the arrival of MCSO deputies on the scene.

June 29

At 1126 p.m., officers were contacted by a party who was walking near Shoreline Elementary when they observed damage to the shed located at the nearby soccer field. The party indicated that a brick appeared to have been thrown into the small press box. Officers noted the door handle into the building had been broken off, but it did not appear entry had been gained or that anything had been taken. Officers notified the school's maintenance staff to address the damage and secure the building.

Between $200-500 worth of damage was estimated to have been done.

June 30

At 11:58 a.m., officers made contact with a subject who resides in the 1500 block of Moody St. and indicated her belief that she had been a victim of a fraud earlier in the month beginning June 16. She received what she believed to be a valid work email, generated using the employer's email address, with an invitation to participate in a data analysis. She followed the directions given in the email, which told her to purchase three new iPhones with AT&T service, and that's when she began to question the email's legitimacy. Soon after, she received an additional email requesting a new laptop, and eventually she learned from other co-workers that they had received similar emails. The total loss was estimated at $8,000.

June 17

9:19 a.m., disturbance, 5000 block of Stanton Blvd.

5:27 p.m., medical assist, 8000 block of Cook St.

June 18

5:04, personal protection order violation, 8000 block of Meade St.

June 19

6:36 p.m., found property, returned to owner, 8000 block of Ferry St.

June 20

1:39 p.m., vehicle accident with minor injuries, Water and Spring streets

June 21

5:57 p.m., disturbance, 4000 block of King St.

June 22

8:35 a.m., trespassing, Medbery Park 6:59 p.m., police assist citizen, Montague PD

6/22: 9:20 p.m., police assist citizen, 4900 block of Williams St.

June 23

12:24 p.m., medical assist, 4900 block of Williams St.

June 24

11:38 a.m., police assist citizen, Montague PD

3:36 p.m., traffic stop with citation, 9000 block of Water St.

June 25

1:36 p.m., vehicle accident with building, no injuries, 8900 block of Water St.

3:16 p.m., police assist citizen, 4500 block of Dowling St.

June 26

10:07 a.m., other investigation, Montague PD

11:48 a.m., activated medical alarm, 8600 block of Ferry St.

June 27

9:24 a.m., harassment, assist to Whitehall PD, 1200 block of E Colby St. 3:35 p.m., suicidal subject, assist to Whitehall PD, 500 block of S Division St. 8:38 p.m., found dog, returned to owner the next day, Ferry and Spring streets

June 28

4:29 p.m., peace officer, assist to Whitehall PD, 800 block of Alice St. 10:53 p.m., medical assist, assist to Muskegon County Sheriff's Office, 9000 block of Old 31

June 29

9:15 a.m., dog complaint, 4000 block of Hunt St.

11:08 a.m., suspicious occurrence, 7000 block of Goodrich St.

1:18 p.m., assist to Montague Fire, activated fire alarm, Ellenwood Drive

3:56 p.m., driving complaint and ordinance violation, 9000 block of Besser Ct.

6:44 p.m., domestic, 5000 block of Hunt St.

Montague Police Report

• Claire Marshall/Mirror Photos

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