The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 36, January 30, 2026

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Frank Hollister

Vintage Snowmobile Show returns with new club as organizers

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The 9th Annual Hart Winterfest Vintage Snowmobile Show and Swap Meet will be held Saturday, Feb. 7 at the Oceana County Fairgrounds in Hart and is being sponsored this year by The Longwalkers Snowmobile Club. Gates open at 8 a.m. and the show will run until 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted. Besides accessing the fairgrounds from State Street, riders will also be able to access the show from the Rail Trail and through a gate on the west side of the fairgrounds.

According to event coordinator Kevin Hallack, this year’s featured machine will be Wankel engine sleds, but all vintage makes and models are welcome to attend! Show sleds will be eligible for trophies in seven judged categories as well as the People’s Choice award. Raffle tickets will be available for $5 each for a chance to win a 1974 Alouette Sno-Brute 440 vintage snowmobile. A food truck will be on site, and Winterfest swag will be available for purchase as well.

The vintage snowmo-

bile show first got its start in 2017 when Hallack suggested it as a possible Winterfest event, and since then he’s been the show’s main sponsor. Last year he and buddy, Albert Schram of Custer, decided to take their hobby a step further and formed the Longwalkers Snowmobile Club, an idea they had been tossing around for some time. “Albert has had the club name in the wings for a while, because every ‘long walk’ begins as an epic day of riding,” Hallack quipped.

Club membership is open to any snowmobiler, and interested riders and supporters can join at the show or by contacting Hallack personally. Special rider patches and stickers have been created and will be available with each paid membership. Currently there is no set membership fee.

The club’s mission statement reads, “We are a vintage snowmobile club located in Oceana County, Michigan. We strive to be good ambassadors of the sport of snowmobiling in our area, by volunteering to do trail maintenance, promoting vintage rides and events, and working with other local clubs.”

And as “good ambassadors,” the group’s main activity thus far has been the renovation of the his-

American Classic was established in 2001 by Leon, Nathan and Jacob Thompson. The father and his sons have many countless in-roads in the construction industry, partnering with developers throughout Michigan and abroad. The Thompson family prides itself on thinking and operating as a team. American Classic grew from these three guys on a roof, into a successful business through lots of hard work and dedication.

As this dynamic threesome continued tackling each roofing project, they noticed what set them above the rest; work ethic, trustworthiness,

toric Devil Riders Snowmobile Club clubhouse, an A-frame structure that sits on a small plot of land on York Road east of Hart. Constructed decades ago by area snowmobile enthusiasts, and utilized as a warming shelter and for club meetings in the past, the small building has only been used for trail sign storage the past 25 years. This fall the club installed a driveway, and as soon as the weather cooperates, the club is ready to have a new metal roof installed.

This year, one probably won’t find any of the Longwalkers complaining about all of the snow and cold. For years, snow conditions have been minimal at best. While it does require more trail grooming on their part, the snow has been welcome, as it allows them to get out on their sleds and enjoy a hobby they love.

For historical context, the Devil Riders club has seen a couple of name changes over the years. In the 1990s, wanting to sound more family-friendly, the group renamed

dependability and quality products with quality installation. The satisfaction verbalized by their customers spread throughout communities ultimately propelling American Classic as the top exterior specialist in Michigan today.

Not soon after launching into the roofing world, there was the need to haul tear off shingles. Therefore they started hauling their own tear off roofing shingles with a RollOff truck. Fast forward 25 years American Classic Dumpster Services was birthed out of the company growth and currently the company provides waste & recycling

themselves the Oceana White Knights. Some may remember how that group was instrumental in organizing snowmobile riding competitions that led riders on courses that ended at the Whiskey Creek Resort in northeastern Oceana County. Following the White Knights' tenure, new club membership changed the club’s name to the Oceana Trailblazers. Even though the Trailblazers officially stopped meeting in 2000, the last club president, Pat Tate, remained part of trail operations and caring for the clubhouse property. Now with the formation of the Longwalkers club, the new interest and involvement has re-energized local riders and sets the course for the next group of snowmobile enthusiasts.

Like the snowmobile clubs before them, the Longwalkers Snowmobile Club is part of the West Michigan Snowmobile Council, based in Muskegon. Among other group activities, the council receives funding from Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources for

services. ACD provides residential curbside waste, commercial waste and recycling, roll-off dumpsters, scrap metal, demolition projects and land clearing. As well as, collaborates with cities, villages and municipalities

grooming operations in West Michigan. Trail captains and snowmobile clubs from the council, in turn, volunteer their time to groom and maintain various portions of the trail. The Longwalkers are continuing to maintain an approximately 30-mile stretch of trail, known as “191,” which runs from M-20 to the Baldwin trail connector, south of Crystal Valley on 120th Avenue.

“Parts of the state’s snowmobile trail system goes through state land or parks, but for parts that don’t, local clubs meet with private landowners each year to gain permission to have the trail run across their property,” Hallack said.

The Longwalkers wish to thank each private landowner for their continued support and cooperation, without it they wouldn’t be able to offer the extensive trail system they do to snowmobilers. From an economic development perspective, connected trail systems can be a real asset to local municipalities. Local riders benefit from easy access to amenities, and local businesses benefit from the money snowmobile riders spend when they are out on a ride.

For more information or to join the Longwalkers Snowmobile Club, contact

on waste & recycling services. December 2025

ACD was granted the privilege of taking over full operations of the Oceana Transfer Station.

American Classic is committed to our customers' satisfaction and stands behind the

Hallack at 231-923-9279 or visit the club’s Facebook page, The-Long-Walkers-Vintage-SnowmobileClub.

For information about the West Shore Snowmobile Council and the Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association (MISORVA), visit their Facebook page at WestShore-Snowmobile-Council.

For maps, trail conditions and more information about snowmobile trails in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/snomobiling.

Please note this important information from the MISORVA website, a volunteer organization dedicated to the success of motorized recreation in Michigan: “Our trail system is narrow in many areas, PLEASE stay on your side of the trail and watch for oncoming traffic. Our trail system is unique in that most trails are on private property. PLEASE respect signs and gates so that we don’t lose our riding privileges. If a gate is closed, so is our access. PLEASE stay on the trails and off of newly planted fruit and evergreen saplings that our landowners rely on for their crops. Several landowners have now closed some of the unofficial trails in Shelby/Hart due to loud pipes and sleds running over fruit trees.”

work we do and services we offer.  Call American Classic Dumpsters today so we can get started providing you our services. Curbside, commercial and roll-off services. 231-834-7330 americanclassic.us

OCEANA ECHO

Village of Shelby approves MOU and Phase 3 & 4 authorization

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

SHELBY - Monday, Jan. 26 the Shelby Village Council approved two resolutions moving them closer to the possibility of a renovated and revitalized downtown.

Because the village is looking at brownfield agreements for future development within the village, Kirk Perschbacher, of the Fishbeck consulting firm working with the county brownfield authority, presented an informative update on Brownfield Tax Increment Financing (BTIF) and how it works.

“Education is a big part of my job,” Perschbacher began. “There are several misconceptions about brownfields - that they result in lost tax revenue, that they defund schools and that they are always contaminated sites.”

“The Brownfield TIF statute has historically focused on traditional brownfields - contaminated, blighted, functionally obsolete and historic property. Then (in) 2023, a major amendment began to address the statewide housing shortage,” Perschbacher’s report stated. “Property is no longer required to be traditional brownfield if it’s going to be used for housing.”

How tax increment financing works is, once a base property value is established and redevelopment takes place, Perschbacher's presentation continued, “The new (incremental) taxes are used to reimburse the party that financed the ‘eligible activities’ described in the brownfield plan. These eligible activities can be anything from environmental assessment and remediation to infrastructure and safety improvements. The ‘tax increment’ equals the property’s ‘new’ taxable value, less the ‘initial’ taxable value. Plans limit the cost of eligible activities to be reimbursed and the amount of time for reimbursement. Once a plan reaches one of these limits, it is ended, and all future tax increments

accrue to the individual taxing jurisdictions.”

It is important to note that eligible activities are different for “core communities” and “non-core communities.” Shelby is considered a non-core community, however, when it comes to housing development, certain eligible activities, only open to core communities, become available to non-core communities.

Not only would a Brownfield TIF help assist developers, but tax abatements and EGLE (Environment, Great Lakes & Energy) grants, among other incentives, could be utilized to fill the gap, Perschbacher explained.

“BTIF is a tool,” Perschbacher concluded.

“The key is knowing what tools you have in your toolkit and making it work for both sides.”

His presentation also noted that the whole process takes time and coordination; therefore, a developer needs to begin the process early.

For the council, the first step was to consider whether or not to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shelby Holdings, a developer interested in investing in redevelopment projects within the village limits. Before committing any significant investment in preparing a brownfield plan for consideration, Shelby Holdings needs to know whether the village was in support of future redevelopment. The MOU basically states the village understands the upfront investment required and is willing to work with said developer and consider multiple BTIF plans for future redevelopment.

While development of the empty lot at the corner of Fourth and Michigan has been mentioned in previous meetings, Village Administrator Phil Morse said the developer wasn’t ready to talk about any other redevelopment projects just yet.

He reassured council that the biggest selling point of the proposed MOU was that it does not obligate the village in any way

PUBLIC NOTICE

School Section Lake Storage 7393 E. Jefferson Rd Walkerville, MI 49459 will auction personal property belonging to the following tenants. The disposition will occur on February 16, 2026.

1. Tim Peterson #51 – Grill, kids toys, household goods, furniture

2. Shannon Tobin #52 – TV, garage supplies, household goods

Disposition is subject to prior cancellation if tenant pays outstanding amount owed. Storage unit auction will be held online through JNJ Auction. Contact Phone (616) 610-4954

to approving future redevelopment plans. It simply means the village is willing to have a conversation and cooperate in good faith going forward.

Perschbacher added that any BTIF project would need to be approved not only by the village but also by the county’s brownfield committee and the county commissioners. Numerous community stakeholders would consider if a future brownfield redevelopment project met legal requirements, was for the public good, was supported by the municipality, if the ask was reasonable, if the municipality would incur costs from the development and can the municipality leverage other benefits by approving incentives.

However, as a word of caution, Morse added, “If the village decides it doesn’t want to play, word will get around… developers won’t even look at Shelby.”

Council member Dan Zaverl challenged that statement, saying, “You’re just trying to scare us.”

To which Morse replied, “With all due respect, it’s not to scare anyone. The reality is it doesn't pencil out (for potential developers).”

Village President John Sutton weighed in, saying that if and when a redevelopment project starts, lots of skilled labor will be in town, utilizing local services and patronizing local businesses. “In past council workshops, where we’ve made lists of village priorities, affordable housing and our downtown have always been the top two,” he said.

“It seems like the only way to get these properties fixed up and bring in new business,” added council member Steve Crothers.

“And once you start, developers will see you are

willing to work with them (and) momentum builds,” Perschbacher concluded.

At the vote, all council members voted in favor of adopting the proposed MOU between the Village of Shelby and Shelby Holdings.

The second approval was no less important than the first, when the village gave authorization to fund Phases 3 and 4 of the proposed Downtown Renovation Plan. According to Morse's memo to council, Phase 3 and 4 would involve detailed construction drawings, assistance with contractor bidding, provide recommendations to the Review Committee and support construction administration. The combined cost of the two phases would be between $108,000 and $180,000, or nine percent of the overall project cost, depending on the fi-

nal project size. A private donor has committed to a 50 percent match, reducing the village’s share to between $54,000 and $90,000. This amount would come from the $500,000 the village committed toward the downtown renovation project at their last council meeting.

Morse’s memo also stated the village has $1.1 million committed in writing toward the project thus far and the committee is nearly certain they can reach $1.2 million, allowing for a very meaningful project. “However, there is strong potential to reach the full $2 million through sources such as the housing TIF and other appropriations now in progress.”

While Morse did say the council could wait until the first meeting in February to approve the expense, that would be the latest date he

recommended. He stated that later than that would put off construction until 2027, most likely resulting in higher costs and risking the momentum of current funding and community support.

All council members, with the exception of Crystal Heykoop, who had to leave the meeting early, authorized the approval and funding of Phases 3 and 4 for the Downtown Renovation Project.

In addition to the aforementioned approvals, Morse and the council gave kudos to the village DPW staff for the extra work they’d been putting in throughout this wintry stretch of weather. When asked if the village had sustained any frozen pipes, DPW Superintendent Jeremiah Helenhouse said, “Knock on wood, we haven’t had any yet.”

Be the Voice of Help: Part-Time 911 Telecommunicator

Mason-Oceana 911 is currently accepting resumes for a part-time telecommunicator position. We are looking for calm, compassionate, and quick-thinking individuals to serve as the first line of response for our community.

• Competitive Pay: Starting wage is $22.88 per hour.

• Try Before You Apply: Call 231-869-7911 to schedule an observation!

Requirements:

• Strong computer skills and minimum typing speed of 35 words per minute.

• Availability to work weekends, nights, and holidays.

• Must be 18 years or older, a US Citizen, and a High School Graduate (or GED).

• Ability to pass background investigation, hearing, vision, and drug tests.

How to Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to cblaauw@mason-oceana911.org.

Deadline to Apply: February 13, 2026

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

on proposed 2026/2027 Fiscal Year budget.

Village of Shelby 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455

February 23, 2026

The Village of Shelby will be holding a public hearing on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 6:15 P.M.

The purpose of this meeting is to review and adopt the upcoming 2026/2027 Fiscal Year Budget.

Copies of the proposed budget will be available for review after Monday, February 9, 2026 at the Village Hall, during normal business hours.

*THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING

PUBLIC

HEARING NOTICE

Claybanks Township Zoning Board of Appeals

The Claybanks Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7:00 pm to review a dimensional variance request from Donald & Jean Richards for land division of a 35 acre parcel in the Agricultural Preservation zoning district.

The property is located at 6722 S. 56th Avenue, Montague, MI 49437 (Parcel #64016-013-100-03).

The meeting will be held at the Claybanks Township Hall at 7577 W. Cleveland Rd, New Era, MI 49446.

Questions or statements regarding this review may be directed to the Zoning Board of Appeals via Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator at the mailing address above or via e-mail at zoning@claybankstownship.org.

Claybanks Township Zoning Board of Appeals

Commissioners approve airport repair funding, receive updates

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Oceana County Airport receiving funds from MDOT’s Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act Agreement to correct the easement of Runway 9 at its Jan. 22 meeting. Between federal and state funds, the project will total $365,338.

The board also approved expanded court recording duties for Circuit, District and Family Court employees alongside the requisite raise for those expanded responsibilities. The increase in pay is made available through funds retained through the reduction of the current court reporter’s contract, with an extra $18,000 in savings.

The county will also form a new Advisory Tax Limitation Committee for 2026, as required every 10 years, as Oceana residents vote in August to either increase or extend the tax limits. Committee members

will include the county treasurer, the commissioner’s finance committee chair and township supervisors. The committee must have their recommendation submitted and adopted by the board by May 12.

Also at the meeting, County Administrator Tracy Byard was named an authorized electronic signatory for MDOT-related paperwork alongside Chairman Robert Walker in order to streamline and quicken the administrative process, particularly in the most recent MDOT grant for the Oceana County Council on Aging’s bus

barn project. Said Walker, “it makes a lot of sense to have [a signatory] who's in the courthouse all the time… then I don’t have to drive back and forth to come up here and sign a paper.”

Finally, the board was informed that the District Court promoted a current employee to the role of Deputy Magistrate, which the commissioners requested they provide before they could hire another part-time clerk. When asked for his opinion of the promotion, Sheriff Craig Mast said, “This will be extremely helpful for several positions in

my staff to help the process move along,” citing past delays that have affected arraignments and the signature of warrants while police wait for a judge.

Commissioner Tim Beggs thanked the District Court for fulfilling their request, “I hope now, with this position in place, that those concerns from our law enforcement will be relieved, and that there will be more flexibility and availability from the courts…we have a person in place now. I hope it's utilized well and alleviates [these] issues.”

The commissioners

also received an update on the process of exploring and selecting a new GIS mapping provider for the county. The new system the county is exploring - Esri - was viewed by department heads to positive reception, with several highlighted features being the county’s ownership of the surveyed maps, adoption by other Michigan counties, and the user-friendly interface. Should the County’s BS&A cloud be

compatible with the new system, the county could go forward with the provider.

At the end of the regular meeting, the board went into closed session to discuss the written opinion provided by the county attorney. Following the closed season, the board agreed to adopt the wages discussed in the meeting, specifically those of the police chief, deputy and county administrator.

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

The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open

Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment. oceanahistory.org

Postcards from the Past: The Old County Courthouse

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

If you haven’t had any major episodes of deja vu lately, might I direct you to our first postcard of 2026?

This postcard of Hart from 1912 shows a single-gabled, two-story building. Despite its uncomplicated and austere appearance, great pains are still taken to add a bit of grandeur - with tall windows and a balcony over the double-door entrance. The picture was taken when much of the foliage was gone from the trees, which shade a walkway from the building to the street. A man in a dark suit jacket is marching down the steps.

In the background, buildings line an adjacent street, and already the vague shapes of the windows and verandas trigger a feeling of familiarity, especially for those who are familiar with old photographs of downtown Hart. In the foreground, the most obvious and unchanging aspect of the location - a tall granite statue stood on a plinth, a stone Civil War soldier in a Union uniform.

Most everyone in Oceana County would recognize the Veteran’s Monument outside the county courthouse immediately, so it feels rather strange to see a foreign building set quite a ways behind it. Or, at least, it does for me and likely anyone who was born or moved to the area after the 1960s.

But at the time this

photograph was taken, this building had served as Oceana County’s courthouse since 1874, as helpfully noted in the caption of the photograph in the lower right-hand corner - “Court House and Jail Hart Mich.”

To be specific, the bright, white building serving as the photo’s focal point is the courthouse, while the darker brick building with white trim is the jail, built in 1903. One year after the jail was built, the Civil War monument was erected, honoring and naming the 51 Oceana County men who died in the conflict.

The maple trees on the lawn are actually “centennial” trees, named for the year of their planting, 1876. Originally, 47 trees were planted that year, with the number growing to 55 years after. As the trees grew in the passing decades, it was quickly realized that visiting speakers presenting on the “politician’s pulpit”the balcony overlooking the entrance - were enveloped by the greenery, and some centennial maples unfortunately were removed. Despite many more being removed in the construction of the current courthouse, about

a dozen remain today, and I can attest to the relieving shade they provide on a hot June day at the National Asparagus Festival.

The courthouse pictured was not the first county seat, nor was it even the first building to serve as a courthouse (it’s not even the second or third), but it certainly stood the longest. It was only after 84 years that a new courthouse was finally built, right in front of the old one. Ten years later, the old courthouse was demolished, and the space was used to construct the new jail. So 94 years in total, which isn’t too shabby for a building that cost $6,031 to make.

As for the backside of the postcard, it’s one of those lucky draws where the message has no discernible relation to the front photograph. The card was postmarked on November 26, 1912 at 9 a.m. and was sent to a Mrs. Ethleen Gregoire in the care of Mercy Hospital of Muskegon.

The message reads:

“Rec’d your letter tonight and glad that you are by yourself and like it. Kept thinking about you all day long that probably you would be lonesome.

Fannie and Emily were up in the afternoon. We cleaned the bedroom today all but washing the windows + putting up the lace curtains again. All the summer clothes are in the organ now and I fixed it up so that the cat can’t get in. All as well as usual.

L.B.G.”

A postscript is written upside down above the address field:

“Are invited to Ferry for Thanksgiving.

Aunt Clark”

In case you were curious, Thanksgiving that year was two days after the postcard was sent, so based on the quick turnaround and the fact Ethleen was likely staying at the hospital for an unde-

termined period of time, Aunt Clark was merely declaring her Thanksgiving plans rather than inviting anyone else.

“Rec’d” is a common abbreviation for "received," and while I’d love to point out that you can’t have received a letter “tonight” at 9 a.m., I did say “I’ll write that yesterday”

rather than “tomorrow” earlier this week, so I am in no position to judge. More likely, L.B.G. wrote the postcard before bed, following her receipt of the letter earlier that evening.

Hopefully Ethleen Gregoire (can we just take a moment here to appreciate that name?) was discharged from Mercy before Thanksgiving, or at least, she was able to get some healthful peace and quiet in her new solitary room.

Finally, I am also always glad to read that cat shenanigans are a historical consistency, and hopefully the summer clothes were spared from any kitty claws.

Now if only I had a postcard of the new courthouse, so we could see the evolution of that plot of land on State Street. I suppose you’ll have to wait and see what I’ve got in store next week! Visit us!

CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP

Claybanks Township is accepting bids for lawn services of the Flower Creek and Pinegrove cemeteries for the Summer. Submit bids or questions to Clerk at 7577 W. Cleveland Rd., New Era, MI 49446. 231-742-3470

Ongoing

3rd MON: OCDVA Coffee & Donuts for Veterans, Spouses and Veteran Widows, 9-11 a.m., Heritage Wedding Barn, Shelby.

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

TUES: Free Soup Supper, Hart Christian Fellowship, 5-7 p.m.

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

1st & 3rd TUES: Tech help, Pentwater Twp. Library, 1-2 p.m.

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

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

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

1st & 3rd WED: Free community dinner, 5-6 p.m., Hart Wesleyan.

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

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

2nd & 4th WED: Pentwater Community Food Pantry, First Baptist Church, Pentwater, 9-10:15 a.m.

WED: Line Dancing, Park Place, Pentwater, 6:30-8 p.m.

THURS - "Harts 'n Homes" Women's Fellowship, Faith Christian Fellowship, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

1st FRI: Free Soup Supper, Ferry Comm. Center, 5-7 p.m.

FRI: Story Time, HCL, 10 a.m.

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

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

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

The Ladder Community Center:

Feb. 14 - Party Club for Kids Age 5-12, 1-2:30 p.m.

Feb. 27 - Live Music by the Jammers, 10 a.m. to noon

March 21 - Jigsaw Puzzle Competition (Age 12 & up), 12:30-4:30 (Sign up by 3/14)

The Huddle: 6th-12th grade after-school program, M-F 3-5 p.m.

Adult Hours: M-F 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Feb. 10 & 24: Knitting Group, 10 a.m. to noon

Feb. 6, 13 & 20 : Strum It Club,11 a.m. to noon

MON: Adult Bible Study, “Truth Rising”, 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

Please send us your community events for inclusion on our weekly calendar. Call our office at 231-301-8149 or email theoceanaecho@gmail.com or ads@oceanaecho.com

PUBLIC NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION

BENONA TOWNSHIP, OCEANA COUNTY, MICHIGAN

Ordinance No. 24-2 to repeal and replace an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance to Adopt Short-Term Rental Regulations in Benona Township, Michigan” which was adopted on September 26, 2022.

At a Regular Township Board meeting held on January 26, 2026, for Benona Township, the Township Board adopted Ordinance No. 24-2, the Ordinance to Adopt Short-Term Rental Regulations in Benona Township, Michigan, shall be amended to repeal and replace No. 24 The Ordinance to Adopt Short-Term Rental Regulations in Benona Township, Michigan of September 2022. The changes are as follows:

A motion was made by Shaw and supported by Neuman to amend the Short-Term Rental Ordinance by changing Sec. 0104 Registration Required, 2(a)(1) from 45 miles to 1 hour, and deleting the last three lines of 2(b). Under Sec. 01-05 ShortTerm Rental Regulations, 1(3)(i) remove the words “right of way”. Under Sec. 01-06 Violations; revocation of registration, 2(a) remove “or a court’s determination”, remove all of number (3) and adjust the numbering. The motion was carried. These changes will take effect 30 days following publication in a local paper.

A copy of this Ordinance in its entirety is available at the Benona Township Hall or on the township website at benonatownship.org.

- Margie Shaw, Clerk

J anuary - F ebruary

Jan. 31 - Frozen Tin Man Golf Outing, City of Hart Irrigation Property, 1:30-5:30 p.m.

Jan. 31 - Casino Night Fundraiser, sponsored by Hart Rotary, OCCOA, Hart, 6-10 p.m.

Feb. 4 - Walkerville Fire Dept. Board, Walkerville Fire Station, 7 p.m.

Feb. 5 -Versiti Blood Drive, West Mich Research Station, 4-6:30 p.m.

Feb. 6 - Tween Night, Hesperia Community Library, 3:15-5 p.m.

Feb. 7 - Hart Winterfest, Downtown Hart, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Feb. 7 - Take Your Child to the Library Day, HAPL, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Feb. 7 - Friends of the Hart Area Public Library Book and Bake Sale, Hart Community Center, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pentwater Women’s Club expands grant program

By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Pentwater Women’s Club (PWC) has a rich history of supporting the community for more than a century. Since 1898, the group has funded programs as diverse as books for the library, a sidewalk to the cemetery, a hot lunch program at the school, planting trees downtown, classroom and playground equipment for the school, construction of the former community center (village hall) and honoring war veterans.

The largest beneficiary by far in recent history has been the club’s scholarship program, which has been the primary recipient of the funds raised through their annual spring event. Starting with a single scholarship of $50, it grew to as many as 11 scholarships in one year and up to a value of $4,000. As of 2025, the PWC has awarded 20 scholarships to returning students at West Shore Community College and 231 scholarships to graduating seniors from Pentwater High School. The annual fundraiser, long called the “Wine & Art Event,” has been renamed “Bids & Sips for Scholarships and More.” The new name reflects the club’s intention to expand its pool of grant recipients to honor its mission. In addition to financially assisting Pentwater students pursuing higher education, the mission is to “promote the civic welfare, and to advance cultural and educational opportunities in our community.”

This year the PWC is offering its second “4-E” scholarship award to an individual or an organization in the Pentwater community. The purpose is to enhance educational experience for the community beyond the funded public school curriculum. Examples include, but are not limited to, field trips, conferences or seminars, expert speakers, etc. The total amount of $1,500 can be given to a single entity or divided among two or more applicants. The Extracurricular Educational Enhancement or Experience grant award must ultimately benefit the Pentwater community. The full amount was awarded in 2025 to Abe Van Duinen for the work he performed at the Pentwater Historical Museum last summer to help digitalize their materials for the benefit of the Pentwater Historical Society and museum visitors.

The PWC encourages creativity in applying for the grant. Individuals and organizations that have an opportunity to enhance their education in such a way that it ultimately benefits the Pentwater community are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is May 1, 2026. Applications will be reviewed by the PWC Board, and the award will be granted on June 15, 2026. Preference will be given to applications based on three criteria: benefit to the Pentwater community, uniqueness of funding availability and uniqueness of educational experience. The grant application form is available on the club’s website, www.pentwaterwomensclub.org/grant. Any questions regarding the grant or the application can be sent to pentwaterwomensclub@gmail.org.

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting

January 14, 2026

Supervisor Cavazos called the January 14th Regular Township Board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with all five Board members present. The meeting was conducted in person and via Zoom. Two staff members and two community members were present in person. One person was present via Zoom. The Consent and Meeting Agendas were approved as presented. Action/acceptance was taken on the following items:

• Review of proposed Grant Application for beachfront access & recreational improvements

• Bid review for trash/recycling services

• Access agreement for usage of township’s Transfer Station & Recycling Center

• Business travel mileage rate adjustment

• Michigan Township Association annual conference

The meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m.

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

- Maureen Murphy, Clerk

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Kathleen ‘Kathy’ M. Winston

September 14, 1947 ~ January 19, 2026

Kathleen “Kathy” M. (Knowles) Winston, 78, passed away January 19, 2026. She was born September 14, 1947, in Ludington, the daughter of Willard L. T. and Violet “Mary” (Butterfield) Knowles.

Kathleen dedicated her life to the restaurant and service industry. Her career began at Dairy Queen, where she worked tenaciously towards her dream of owning her own restaurant. Kathleen owned and operated her restaurant, Trailside, for more than two decades.

Kathleen found joy in the simple pleasures of life — tending her flower gardens and watching the birds and squirrels come and go outside her window. In the summertime, she could often be seen cruising in her pride and joy, her beloved black Trans Am, a familiar and fond sight to those who knew her.

Kathleen is survived by her husband of 25 years, George; children, G. Allan Dollaway and Lauri (Jay); brother, Roger Knowles; her sister-in-law; two brothers-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family members.

Church Directory

William Paul Askins

May 5, 1933 ~ January 25, 2026

William Paul Askins, affectionately known by his friends and family as Bill, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026, at his home with the love of his life, Darlene, by his side.

He was born May 5, 1933, in Lima, Ohio, the son of James and Helen (Betts) Askins. Among Bill’s greatest accomplishments in life were his wife and four children, Denise Stewart, Pamela Fulton, Cheryl Fuller and Jeff Askins.

Following graduation from Hesperia High School, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952, proudly serving his country until 1956. He then worked at DuPont Chemical Company for several years until he decided to further his education, first at Muskegon Community College and then at Grand Valley State University, graduating with his BA. With a passion for helping children, Bill went on to work at FiveCAP before starting employment with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, where he was a Protective Service Worker, retiring after 20 years of dedicated service to his community.

In his younger years, Bill found solace in the great outdoors, often found hunting and fishing. He also took great pride in the family garden and loved his corn, tomatoes and onions.

Bill was involved in many local groups where he gained friendship and purpose in service. These include the Hart Lions Club, Hart Long Rifles and Hart American Legion. Bill and Darlene were also faithful members of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby.

Bill married Darlene in 1955, and she survives him along with their children, Pam (Mark) Fulton, Cheryl (Wendell) Fuller; son-in-law, Tom (Terri) Stewart; daughter-in-law, Beth Askins; grandchildren, Andy (Kristina), Carla (Mercedes), Sheila (Don), Nathan, Sarah (Chris), Jake, Melissa (Elizabeth), Wayne, Theresa (Tyler) and Samantha (John); great-grandchildren, Cameron, Anna, Julia, Thomas, Luke, Landon, Morgen, Emery, Jayse, Kingston, Emma, River and Penn; sister, Gloria of Grand Rapids; and brother, Tom, of Texas.

Bill was preceded in death by: his parents, James and Helen Askins; and his children, Denise and Jeff.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, MI 49455, with military honors and a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to: First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby.

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

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Mark A. Mussell

May 22, 1968 ~ January 22, 2026

Mark A. Mussell, 57, was called to Heaven on January 22, 2026, at his home in Shelby, Mich. surrounded by his loving family. Mark was born May 22, 1968, in Grand Rapids, an only child of James and Coetta (Fleming) Mussell.

Mark built an incredible life defined not just by the work he did, but by the people he lifted up along the way. A master plumber by trade, he spent many years in the union local 174 before boldly stepping out to start his own business. His skill took him across the country, contributing to the construction of hospitals, casinos, stadiums and processing plants. Places that con tinue to help and serve countless people.

No matter how impressive his career became, Mark’s proudest accomplishments were always at home and on the field. He poured his heart into coaching his kids, guiding Devin through years of football from grade school to high school, and later coaching Olivia and Victoria in softball. Even after his own children graduated, he continued to coach, mentoring young athletes, teaching life lessons, and building lifelong bonds. Mark’s influence reached far beyond the scoreboard; shaping character, confidence and community in everyone lucky enough to cross paths with him, especially those he was able to coach. He will be an eternal example that with common sense, hard work and determination you can do anything. He is proof that no matter the odds, giving up is never a viable option.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Susan; son, Devin (Samantha) Mussell; daughters, Olivia (Justin) Mussell and Victoria (Parker) Dekkinga; and many other family members and dear friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents and other cherished family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be collected the day of services or can be given to the Venmo account @MussellStrong. The funds are intended to be used in Mark’s honor at Benona Shores Golf Course. Donations will help support those who may need assistance in enjoying the game of golf at the events Mark loved most, including the Fireman’s Golf Scramble, where the best memories are made with family and friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church of Montague. Interment will be in the spring, in Oceana Center Cemetery in Shelby, Mich.

Victor Eugene Myrick

August 23, 1937 ~ January 22, 2026

Victor Eugene Myrick of Rothbury, Michigan, passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on Au gust 23, 1937, in Troy, Maine, Victor lived a life that was full, busy and well beyond what many thought possible.

Throughout his life, Victor was known for leaving behind handwritten “I was here” notes, small but unmistakable reminders of his presence. This obituary marks his final and most enduring:

“I was here.”

Victor proudly served his country, retiring as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. His military career reflected his discipline, fierce independence and strong constitution. After his service, he carried that same work ethic into civilian life, owning both a restaurant and a roofing and siding business. A man of many interests, Victor was never one to sit still. Throughout his life, he found joy in farming, gardening, rock collecting, gambling, puzzles, playing pool, reading, yard-saling, hunting and fishing. He certainly never turned down a Busch beer and taught us all to love peanut butter and pancakes. Christmas morning would be the one and only time you would find him in the kitchen making his traditional omelets.

Victor was obstinate when he chose to be, and not always easy, but always authentic. He could spin a story - that was mostly true. He had a sharp wit and a way of making himself unforgettable.

Victor is survived by: his wife of 47 years, Jill Myrick; adopted daughters, Shelley (Ken) Sears and Stacey (Kyle) Lohman; adopted son, Ron (Martha) Myrick; grandchildren, Riley (Addison), and Weston Lohman, Alisha (Mike), Zek (Brittany), Kylene (Jacob), and Gabrielle; great-grandchildren, Aurora, Luna and Junior; and sister, Bonnie Furrow.

Victor was preceded in death by: his parents, Earl and Grace (Howe) Myrick; sister, Pat (Alton) Reynolds; and brother, Dennis Myrick.

Victor Eugene Myrick lived life on his own terms. He worked hard, spoke freely, loved deeply in his own way, and left his mark, clearly and unapologetically.

Special gratitude and thanks to the Harbor Hospice Team and family friend Barb Peterson. A family graveside burial will be held in the spring. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. www.harrisfhome.com

Donna Jean Herremans

September 22, 1935 ~ January 23, 2026

Donna Jean Herremans, age 90, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, January 23, 2026, with much love and support from her family.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, Gordon and Esther (Ford) Kingsford; husband of 68 years, John Herremans; beloved son, Patrick ‘Pat’ Neil Herremans; and sisters, Nancy Dickinson and Francis Afton.

She will be deeply missed by: children, Craig (Lynda) Herremans, Kathleen Herremans, Louis (Gwen) Herremans and Michael (Audrey) Herremans; grandchildren, Jonathan (Jamie) Herremans, Brittany (Joe) Carl, Michele (Leo) Uber, Krysta (Jacob) Deshaler, Brianna (R.J.) Virkstis, Kayla Erickson, Ashley (Jerry) Gran, Christian (Nicole) Herremans, Morgan, Blake and Cole Herremans, and Landen and Braden Herremans; brother, Gordon Kingsford; sisters, Carol Maxim and Coral Vrieling; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Donna was born September 22, 1935, in Fremont, Michigan. She grew up on her parents’ sheep farm near Fremont, where she learned to work hard, a trait she carried with her all her life. Growing up, Donna loved being outdoors helping her dad or riding her horse. She also loved to sing and dance. Going to local dances was her favorite activity as a teenager. It was at a dance where she met John, her future husband. When John returned from his overseas enlistment, they married and moved to the Cherry Point Marine Air Base in Havelock, N.C., where they lived for two years and welcomed their first child.

In 1959, Donna and John moved back to his family farm in Walkerville to join John’s dad with the farm and auctioneering businesses. Donna stayed busy being a full-time farm wife, homemaker and mother to Craig, Kathy and Louie for the next 13 years. Then, to John and Donna’s surprise and delight, they were blessed with twin boys, Mike and Pat, which made life even more busy and joyous.

Donna was a great cook and loved to bake pies and goodies for her family and extended family, who came to the farm often. She was an expert canner of fresh farm produce and has thankfully shared her knowledge with family. Donna did many jobs on the farm, including making wreaths and grading apples and asparagus. At 61 years old, she began working in the food industry prepping food and did so for more than 15 years. She loved the social interaction during this time with customers and co-workers.

During her later years, Grandma Donna showered her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with love, hugs, kisses and cookies. She was famous for bringing her potato salad or fruit salad along with mac & cheese “for the kids” to all family gatherings. During these events, Donna could most often be found with one of her great-grandbabies in her arms. Her love of dancing never wavered, and at weddings, she and John energetically showed everyone how to polka. She loved attending grandkids' or great-grandkids' weddings, graduations, baptisms, sporting events, band concerts or dance recitals. She did so right up to within months of her passing.

Funeral services to celebrate Donna’s life will be conducted at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Shelby Road Baptist Church, 4066 W. Shelby Rd., Shelby, MI, 49455, with a light luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held from 5–7 p.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart.

In memory of Donna and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Newaygo County Compassion Home, 20 S. Stewart Ave., Fremont, MI 49412. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.  www.beaconfh.com

Darwin Keith Parsons

November 28, 1931 ~ January 21, 2026

Darwin Keith Parsons, of Montague, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, January 21, 2026, surrounded by fami ly. Darwin was born November 28, 1931 to Jay and Hattie (Morehouse) Parsons.

Darwin grew up in Mason County and graduated from Scottville High School. Darwin married his high school sweetheart, Mitzi Moore, in 1950. They resided in Scottville with their two children and later moved to Montague, where he worked for E.I. DuPont for 15 years, at which time he decided to go into business for himself and started D.K. Parsons Construction, Ltd.

Darwin and Mitzi shared in many business ventures to gether, including rental houses, apartments, a campground, a pastry shoppe and a laundromat. Darwin also enjoyed the times he could spend at the family cabin in Wawa, Canada, and going to antique steam engine & tractor shows. Restoring old cars and trucks was always a big passion of his as well.

Darwin was a member of the Claybanks United Methodist Church. Darwin is survived by: his wife, Mitzi; children, Konda Grant of Montague and Daniel (Lori) Parsons of Montague; grandchildren, Carrie (Christopher) Jensen, Brandon (Maria) Parsons, Patricia (Charles) Jegla, Susan (Warren) Yaw and Jennifer (Andrew) Short; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A joint celebration of life with his wife of 75 years will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to: Claybanks United Methodist Church, 9197 S. 56th Ave., Montague, Michigan 49437, or Harbor Hospice, 1050 W. Western Ave. #400, Muskegon, MI 49444.

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

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

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

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

• On Feb. 2, 1925, musher Gunnar Kaasen and his 13 dogs successfully delivered an antitoxin serum to Nome, Alaska, which was dealing with a widespread diptheria outbreak, in a relay spanning 674 miles in five and a half days and in temperatures as low as 85 degrees below zero.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

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

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20260119

FOR RELEASE JAN. 19, 2026

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20260119 FOR RELEASE JAN. 19, 2026

By JoAnn Derson

• On Feb. 3, 1780, Barnett Davenport murdered Caleb Mallory, in whose house he was a boarder, along with Mallory’s wife, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren, in their home. One of post-Revolution America’s most famous crimes, it contributed to a change in the way the country viewed lawbreakers.

By Lucie Winborne

• On Feb. 4, 1703, 47 samurai were forced to display the ultimate act of loyalty to the regional Japanese lord they had followed by committing seppuku — ritually disemboweling themselves — for the crime of killing the official who had ordered the forced suicide of said lord.

• On Feb. 5, 2003, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell gave a speech to the United Nations outlining America’s case that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction and making an argument for the invasion that would take place the following month. Unfortunately, some of his talking points were either incorrect or misleading, and Powell later described the speech as a blot on his record.

• On Feb. 6, 1998, a judge reinstated schoolteacher Mary Kay Letourneau’s suspended sentence and returned her to prison for seven years after she was caught violating a no-contact order with her former student, Vili Fualaau, when she was found in a parked car with the boy.

• On Feb. 7, 1984, Navy captain Bruce McCandless II became the first human to perform an untethered spacewalk while in orbit 170 miles above the earth, maneuvering freely with a jet pack of his own design after exiting the Challenger space shuttle.

• On Feb. 8, 1994, actor Jack Nicholson approached Robert Blank’s car while they were stopped at a red light in North Hollywood, accused Blank of cutting him off in traffic, and then bashed Blank’s roof and windshield with a golf club. Charges were dropped after Nicholson apologized and the two reached an undisclosed settlement that included a reported $500,000 check from Nicholson. © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

• “For pastry cooking, try grating frozen butter into the flour. It cuts in better and will stay cool longer. This helps when I am making shortbread, as the flour and butter need to be combined. I don’t end up having to put it in the fridge to cool it back down.” — C.S. in South Carolina

• Freshen stuffed animals by securing a few in a pillowcase and adding a fabric softener sheet. Put in the dryer on low heat for 20 minutes, then remove and brush out the fur if necessary while still warm.

• “Schedule important doctor’s checkups, like your annual physical and dental cleanings, in the same month each year, so you will know when they are coming up. I use my birth month. My mom always has hers done in February.” — E.D. in Massachusetts

• Here is an ingenious way to store markers: Collect enough toilet paper rolls to fill a shoebox standing upright. Paint or decorate the outside of the shoebox with brightly colored paper or paints. Fill with the rolls. The markers stand upright in the toilet paper rolls and they are kept standing uniformly across the box. Much better than a messy bin, where you can’t see the colors that are on the bottom.

• When you are finished pan frying something, add a bit of water to the pan and put it back on the still-warm burner while you eat. When you come back to clean up after dinner, the pan drippings will slide right off!

• If you’ve been decluttering as a part of your New Year’s resolutions and you came across old pairs of eyeglasses, know that you can donate them to any Lions Club in your area. They redistribute the glasses to those who cannot afford them. You don’t have to know the prescription, and they take reading glasses too!

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

© 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Lucie Winborne

• The Statue of Liberty was originally brown.

• Parrotfish are among the sleepiest of sea creatures, averaging around a good 13 hours of rest per night. When not dozing, they spend as much as 90% of their time eating algae that grows on coral reefs.

• Reindeer eyes change color according to the seasons — they’re golden in the summer and blue during winter.

• The at symbol was invented more than four centuries before email was.

• The U.S. Postal Service employs a sharp-eyed group of folks whose job is to determine where to send letters and packages with illegible addresses. They work their magic at the USPS Remote Encoding Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, the first facility of its kind and now the only one still standing.

• Just 43 people have been known to have “golden blood,” the rarest of blood types.

• Pomatoes are potato plants that also grow tomatoes. The hybrid occurs when a tomato plant is grafted onto a potato plant, a relatively easy thing since they’re both members of the solanum genus of the nightshade family.

• Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting “The Last Supper” originally included Jesus’ feet.

• Portland, Oregon, was named in a coin toss in 1845 between Asa Lovejoy and Francis Pettygrove when the two couldn’t agree on a suitable moniker for their new land claim.

• Cacti aren’t native to most deserts.

• The human stomach can expand to hold as much as a 2-liter soda bottle, since its inner surface, the mucosa, is lined with folds called rugae that unfold and stretch out to accommodate food as it arrives.

***

Thought for the Day: “If you break your neck, if you have nothing to eat, if your house is on fire, then you got a problem. Everything else is inconvenience.” — Robert Fulghum © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

Oceana County

ANIMAL SHELTER

Meet Titan, a striking 5-year-old neutered male German Shepherd who’s ready to find his next forever home. True to his name, Titan has a big presence—but it comes with an even bigger heart. He’s incredibly friendly and loves being around people, making him a wonderful companion for an active household. Titan does great with children and gets along well with other dogs, so he’d fit nicely into a family environment or a home with canine friends. He does need a cat-free home, but in return you’ll get a loyal, affectionate dog who thrives on connection and attention. He’s full of energy and enthusiasm, which makes him a perfect match for someone who enjoys walks, playtime and staying active. Eager to please and quick to learn, Titan will benefit from some basic manners training—and he’s more than ready for it. He’s already bathroom trained, respects house rules and stays off the furniture. With a little guidance and consistency, Titan has all the potential to be an outstanding lifelong companion. If you’re looking for a smart, loving, and energetic dog to share your life with, Titan may be the one you’ve been waiting for. Titan is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the

Kathryn Ruth ‘ Kay ’ Novotny

June 27, 1940 ~ January 19, 2026

Kathryn Ruth “Kay” Novotny, 85, of Hart, passed away Monday, January 19, 2026, surrounded by family and friends at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility. She was born June 27, 1940, in Alma, the daughter of Frank and Bethel (Lampka) Stimson.

Kay was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She enjoyed many activities throughout her life, such as gardening, bird watching, feeding hummingbirds, going fishing, camping trips with her friends and family, concerts and antique shopping. Kay also found joy in handmade items and loved painting and crafting.

Kay had a caring and nurturing way about her. She gradu ated from Alma High School and went on to graduate from Lansing Community College as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Kay then lovingly cared for the community of Gratiot Medical Center for 42 years.

Kay became a Christian early in her life, and she remained devout in her faith until her death. She loved her church family and was involved in many church activities.

Kay is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Selden Novotny; children, Rebecca (Michael) Jones, Melodie Raber and Steven (Jennifer) Freed; grandchildren, Benjamin (Rachel) Raber and Zachary Freed; great-grandchildren, Bronx Jones and Jersey Jones, and their mother, Jennifer Jones, as well as Elizabeth Raber and Lydia Raber; and son-in-law, Don Raber.

Kay was preceded in death by: her parents, Frank and Bethel Stimson; grandsons, Brian Jones and Brent Jones; and brothers, Frank Stimson and Kenneth Stimson.

Memorial services will be conducted at 1 p.m., Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Mears United Methodist Church, 1990 N. 56th Ave., Mears, MI 49436, with a luncheon to follow. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, www. cancer.org, or to the family to assist with expenses.

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

Robert ‘ Bob ’ Bruce Kirk August 16, 1935 ~ January 22, 2026

Robert “Bob” Bruce Kirk, 90, of New Era, passed away at Optalis Nursing Home in Whitehall on January 22, 2026, following years of a courageous battle with multiple sclerosis and other health issues. He was born August 16, 1935, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Paul and Esther Kirk. Bob was known for his infectious laugh and warm smile, which he freely shared with those around him, always creating joy wherever he went.

Bob grew up in Muskegon, Michigan. At the age of five, the family moved to New Era and purchased the family farm in 1940. Bob worked alongside his father farming and milking dairy cows until his parents retired and built a home just up the road. After graduating from Montague High School in 1953, Bob took over the farm. He continued his education at Michigan State University, where he took agriculture courses and received a certificate in 1954.

In 1957, Bob married the love of his life, Lillian Brown of Whitehall. The two met at a Farm Bureau meeting through mutual friends. Bob loved his Harley motorcycle and would take Lillian on rides during their courtship and early marriage. Bob was a very hard-working man and was proud to work beside his wife while raising their family of four children. He shared his strong faith with his family and taught them a deep love for the land and a strong work ethic.

In his early forties, Bob was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. He and Lillian continued working on the farm with their son until Bob's health declined. Later, they sold the farm and built a retirement home on their property up the road, next to Bob’s parents, near the cherry and pear trees. In the midst of so much change, Bob sought out a hobby and took up woodworking, and his talent came naturally. He built all of the wood trim and many pieces of furniture for their new home. As the grandchildren arrived, he made rocking horses, rocking chairs, and other furniture for his children and grandchildren. Robert’s love for his family lives on through his beautiful woodworking and treasured family heirlooms.

During their retirement years, Bob and Lillian enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, Arizona, Florida and Germany. During one trip to Florida, Bob suffered a severe stroke. After returning home, Lillian cared for him for many years until his illness progressed and he moved to a nursing home in Whitehall. Bob lived there for 10 years and was always caring and thankful for the love and care he received. He never showed discontent and maintained a strong and loving faith throughout his time there. Bob loved to visit with caregivers and visitors alike, often sharing conversations about his deep faith in God. He was a constant encouragement and inspiration to all who met him or spent time with him.

Bob is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 68 years, Lillian; his children, Kathy Kirk, Linda (Joe) Jonseck, Sharon Greenawalt and Dale Kirk; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his brother, Roger (Karen) Kirk; three sistersin-law; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Bob will be remembered for his deep devotion and faith in God, his love for his family, his infectious joy, and his lifelong dedication to hard work and the land.

Bob’s family would like to thank his care providers over the last few years. Your kindness, commitment and unwavering support will always be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, D.C. 20090-1891, or The Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420, in Bob’s memory.

A memorial service followed by a graveside committal will take place in the spring at Trinity Lutheran Church, 5631 W. Stony Lake Rd., New Era, MI 49446.

John Charles Lloyd

July 20, 1940 ~ January 15, 2026

Lloyd's Landing - Montague, MI

John C. Lloyd, a devoted, loving, and caring husband, father and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly on January 15, 2026. He was born on July 20, 1940, in Muskegon, Michigan, the son of John M. and Mary (Maynard) Lloyd.

John grew up in Montague, attended Mouth School and graduated from Montague High School in 1958. He continued his education at Muskegon Community College. He met and married Barbara Burghout in Grand Rapids. The two were married in 1962, beginning a lifelong partnership.

John built a successful career as a Product Manager for Norge Borg-Warner and Montgomery Ward Corporate in Chicago, Illinois. He later worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago and for the Medieval Times in Schaumburg as Maintenance Manager, supervising both food service and facilities operations. Deeply committed to serving his community, John also served as an on-call firefighter and paramedic for the Streamwood Fire Department in Illinois. He was an active and devoted Scout leader for over 30 years, a role he cherished. John and Barbara made their home in Illinois for 36 years before retiring to Lloyd’s Landing in Montague, Michigan.

John is survived by his loving wife of more than six decades, Barbara; daughters, Marie Lloyd of Wyoming, Michigan, and Anne (Scott) Simmons of Raleigh, North Carolina; grandchildren, Griffin Simmons of Japan and Madeline Simmons of New York City, New York; brothers, Robert (Jamie) Lloyd of Montague, Michigan, Tom (Paula) Lloyd of Columbus, Ohio and James (Judy) Lloyd of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; sister, Susan Lloyd of Montague; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John M. and Mary (Maynard) Lloyd.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to White Lake United Methodist Church, 8555 Cook St., Montague, Michigan 49437.

In accordance with John’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service at the White Lake United Methodist Church will be held at a later date. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Patricia ‘ Trish ’ Rose Clark August 5, 1971 ~ January 21, 2026

Patricia "Trish" Rose (Dykman) Clark, 54, passed away unexpectedly, January 21, 2026. She was born August 5, 1971, in Muskegon, the daughter of David and Debra (Kanouff) Dykman.

Trish was a beautiful, caring and deeply loving woman whose life was defined by passion, strength and devotion to those she loved. She possessed a special twinkle in her eye—one that revealed her quick, unique sense of humor and the unmistakable spark of someone who truly understood people.

Fiercely strong, enduring and endlessly giving, Trish always put others before herself. She had a natural instinct to care for those around her and brought joy wherever she went. For many years, she worked at the Pink Elephant, where she became a beloved guest favorite and made countless friends. Known for her warmth and genuine kindness, she had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and at ease. While she loved deeply and wholeheartedly, she was also known to hold a grudge just as fiercely—often behind the best poker face—adding to the complexity and authenticity that made her so memorable.

Trish was a peacekeeper at heart, someone who valued harmony and worked quietly to keep the people she loved connected. She was forgiving and, above all, one of the most constant and loyal friends anyone could hope for. Her best friend especially cherished their early morning coffee talks over the phone, conversations sometimes filled with the good stuff, the hard stuff, and even the bad stuff, but always filled with honesty, laughter and the comfort of a bond that never wavered.

Family meant everything to Trish. She believed wholeheartedly in putting family above all else and lived that belief every day. Her husband, Rich, believes she was his true soulmate, the great love of his life, and his steadfast partner through all seasons.

Creative and talented, Trish was a gifted ornament maker and crafter who poured love into everything she created. She loved decorating her home and took great pride in making it warm, welcoming and uniquely hers. One of her favorite expressions of love was baking, especially making cakes for Brant, a simple joy that spoke volumes about her caring nature.

Trish also found peace in nature and held a deep love for animals and pets, whose companionship brought her comfort and happiness. These passions reflected who she was at her core: nurturing, attentive and deeply connected to the world around her.

Trish will be remembered for her strength, her humor, her creativity, and the unwavering love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and all who were fortunate enough to be loved by her.

Trish is survived by: her loving husband, Rich Clark; son, Jason Clark; parents, David and Debra (Kanouff) Dykman; siblings, Michelle Dykman and David Dykman; grandparents, Don Kanouff and Joyce Dykman; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

Trish was preceded in death by: grandmother, Patricia Kanouff; grandfather, Frank Dykman; infant nephew, Christopher Snook; aunt, Dawn Kessler, and cousin, Lacey Kessler.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420.

Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the White Lake Wesleyan Church, 503 S. Division St., Whitehall, MI 49461.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

Pirates flex their advantage in rivalry win

Ackley scores 12 in 1st quarter as Hart moves to 6-1 in league

By Andy Roberts

The

Oceana Echo Community Contributor

HART — Hart forward Caleb Ackley relishes games where he feels like he has a physical advantage over opponents, and at 6-5 with a healthy build, he gets a lot of those.

Ackley took over the early part of the Pirates’ rivalry game with Shelby last Thursday night, scoring 12 first-quarter points on his way to a game-high 19 as his team rolled to a 73-30 victory.

Hart assistant coach Bishop Lee, a former Shelby star, said the coaches have been intentional about pushing Ackley to seek out his points, and Thursday marked a success in that area.

“He needs to be more aggressive,” Lee said. “He’s really good at that, which is why the last couple of games he’s taken it to the hole and gotten a couple of and-ones and good finishes.”

“I had a rough stretch coming out of break, so I had to slow down, take easy shots,” Ackley added. “My teammates were finding me in the right spots and we were having fun moving the ball.”

The Pirates (11-2, 6-1 West Michigan Conference Rivers) certainly did

•

a lot of that, putting five scorers into double digits and assisting on 18 of their 29 baskets. The scorer Hart was likely happiest to see was leading scorer Jagger Lenon, who returned from an ankle injury and drilled a pair of three-pointers en route to 11 points.

“He was cleared to practice Tuesday, but it was a snow day, and so his first practice was (Wednesday),” Lee said. “Coming off the bench today was probably hard for him, but we’re just trying to ease him right back into it, so next week he’ll be ready to go. I think he played pretty well for (his) first game back.”

The Pirate defense was equally as impressive as its offense, and the driving force on that side of the ball was Miguel Escamilla, who made his

presence felt all over the court. Escamilla came very close to a triple-double, an exceptionally rare feat at the high school level, scoring 13 points on 5-of-5 shooting, passing out 10 assists, grabbing eight rebounds and swiping five steals. He showed remarkable dexterity by poking the ball free from Tiger ballhandlers without fouling on multiple occasions.

“Defensively, he’s the guy,” Lee said. “If they’ve got one star player, we’re putting him on them, and he’s shutting them down. Tonight, it was nice to see him excel offensively, taking it to the hole over and over again. They weren’t stopping the ball, so he took it at the hole, and he was getting good takes.”

Shelby (4-7, 2-4 WMC Rivers), perhaps a bit gassed after a very hardfought victory over Montague the night before, simply could not match Hart’s energy level, said coach Rick Zoulek.

“I don’t have a lot of big bodies in our team, and we fought really hard (Wednesday) night against Montague, and Montague’s got some big kids,” Zoulek said. “I could just tell tonight that we didn’t have the fight in us that we had (Wednesday).”

Eli Kelley tried to keep Shelby in it, knocking down a couple of tough jump shots in the first quarter, but

Hart wins rivalry continued on page 11

Tigers take first loss of season vs. Ludington

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — Not many teams can match Shelby’s strength, length and athleticism, but Ludington showed in Monday’s West Michigan Conference cross-divisional game that it certainly can.

The visiting Orioles harassed Shelby into a poor shooting performance and 29 turnovers Monday night, handing the Tigers their first loss of the season, 44-30.

Despite those giveaways and an 18% shooting percentage, Shelby (91) was able to stay within shouting distance of the Orioles most of the game and trailed by only eight points until an and-one basket by Madelyn Kenyon early in the fourth quarter made it 39-29. Neither team scored for some time after that, and Shelby didn’t make any more field goals in the game.

“Their pressure definitely bothered our guards,” Shelby coach Sarah Wolting said. “It just felt like nothing was going our way. A loose ball would go on their end. In the first half they were making everything. We knew coming in, after scrimmaging them in the summer, that they like to make that chaos, and they did a good job of

• Andy Roberts/Echo

it. Our subs on the bench, our guards, everyone’s just got to be stronger.”

It didn’t help that Michelle Peterson has been battling illness lately, nor that leading scorer Jayna Burmeister, who’s been playing through a facial injury, had a new mask she had to play with Monday. Wolting said she could tell by the way Burmeister occasionally looked down at the ball while dribbling that she wasn’t entirely comfortable with the mask. Though the sophomore star still had a team-best 12 points, they came on 5-of-24 shooting.

Some of that, too, had to be cred-

ited to the Orioles’ swarming, attacking, physical defense. Shelby simply could not get into offensive sets at times as Ludington relentlessly got in the face of the Tigers.

“Their height and their physicality pushed us a little bit,” Wolting said. “It was actually kind of nice that the refs let some things go, so we had to play tougher.”

Shelby had early answers for Ludington, rallying from an early 9-2 defi-

cit to tie it up at 11 late in the quarter, but a floater by Kenyon in the final seconds of the first quarter gave the O’s a boost heading into the second, which they turned into nine points in the first two minutes of the quarter. At that point it was 22-13, and while the Tigers continued to scrap and fightthey had a 52-32 edge in rebounding,

MHSAA permits players to pursue NIL deals

The MHSAA representative council announced Tuesday afternoon in a press release that effective immediately, MHSAA student-athletes are allowed to pursue and benefit from personal branding activities - commonly known as name, image and likeness (NIL) activities.

The MHSAA had previously allowed some such opportunities, including student-athletes’ conducting camps, clinics and private lessons. The expanded policy allows student-athletes to capitalize on more of these opportunities, with some limitations.

The MHSAA release said that the topic of NIL opportunities has consistently been addressed over the last three years as it has become more and more common at

the collegiate level. Though it did not ultimately come up for a vote, the Michigan legislature proposed amending state law to allow for student-athletes’ use of NIL in 2023, which the MHSAA supported.

According to Opendorse, a marketplace that helps athletes arrange NIL deals, nearly every state in the U.S. allowed some form of NIL benefits for high school athletes as of last November, with only Indiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Hawaii not allowing it after the MHSAA’s announcement.

“We have said from the start of this conversation that the MHSAA could be comfortable with a policy that provides individual branding opportunities for individual student-athletes, and this rule change provides

those while excluding the possibility of collectives, and boosters and school people getting involved in those activities,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said in the release. “This is the essence of what NIL was supposed to allow in the first place, and we’re confident we’ve crafted language that allows true NIL opportunities without affecting competitive equity among our member schools.”

Additional activities allowed by the new policy include social media endorsements and promotions, personal appearances, photo sessions or autograph signings; modeling, advertising, merchandise, sports cards or apparel sales; and the use of a student’s name, image or likeness in marketing materials.

Tigers’ first loss

24 of those 52 on the offensive glass - they were never able to get much closer than that.

“We’ve got to be better at putbacks,” Wolting said. “We’ve got to be better on the outside. We’ve got to be stronger with the ball. Hats off to Ludington. They did pressure us. They were ready to play tonight.”

Those strong rebounding numbers at least created a silver lining for Shelby to take from the defeat. Another, Wolting said, is the pressure of holding an undefeated record won’t be there in future games - very few of which will feature a team capable of coming at Shelby for 32 minutes the

continued from page 10

way Ludington did.

Of course, such matchups are possible in the postseason, and with the Tigers holding high hopes of a deep run, games like Monday’s help in exposing them to what it will take to win at that level.

“I think this will help us in the long run,” Wolting said. “We’re going to learn from it. We’re going to get better from it.”

Burmeister had 19 rebounds for the Tigers in the defeat, with Annabelle Stark grabbing 13 and Kylie Brown 10. Eloise Kwietnewski led all scorers with 14 points for Ludington.

There remain some limitations in place. Schools and coaches are not permitted to be directly involved in any way in a student-athlete’s NIL activities, and school logos, mascots or trademarks may not be used. Student-athletes also cannot promote gambling, alcohol or banned substances.

“The MHSAA will guard the competitive equity we have promoted for more than 100 years, and take with the utmost seriousness any attempts to break or blur this rule,” Uyl said in the release. “We have provided clear language and sufficient

guidance on what is allowed to assist our schools as they navigate this ever-changing landscape.”

All such activities must be disclosed to the MHSAA within seven days of an opportunity or contract for disclosure and approval. Schools may choose to have stricter rules regarding these NIL activities if desired.

For more details on what is and what is not allowed, and frequently asked questions about MHSAA regulations, visit the MHSAA Name, Image, Likeness page at mhsaa.com/name-image-likeness.

Hart wins rivalry

continued from page 10

the Tigers didn’t have the firepower to keep pace. Chace Oakes did his best to slow down Ackley defensively as Zoulek chose to give his junior forward the test of stopping the Pirates’ senior star. Evan Waller led Shelby with nine points for the game.

Both coaches noted Hart’s palpable oncourt chemistry, the product of the Pirates playing together at several levels for many years. And not to be lost in the shuffle, sophomore Kolton Rockwell had another terrific performance, with 15 points and 10 boards.

“Even the guys that come in off the bench are pretty smooth with each other,” Zoulek said. “That’s a huge part of it. They spend a lot of time in the offseason, and they’ve come up together.

“Kolton Rockwell is a really good all-around player, probably their most underrated player because he can run the point, he can play the post, he does a lot of everything.”

Chace Oakes

and Leighton Belasco knock the ball free from Hart’s Miguel Escamilla during Thursday’s game at Hart. Escamilla came close to a triple-double in Hart’s 73-30 win. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Zoulek added that his team was prepared for Hart’s athletic defense, having recently faced WMC Rivers unbeaten North Muskegon, but was less sharp this time around.

“North Muskegon does some similar stuff,” Zoulek said. “They get really physical with you and they’re very athletic as well. We handled it better (when we played them), but you’ve got to be sharp on your game. When teams play you like that, if you’re a little bit off, you’re going to make a lot of mistakes, and that’s what hap-

pened tonight. Instead of making a bounce pass, we were trying to throw a soft pass. We were a step behind everything.”

Ackley said he was thrilled to see not only himself, but so many of his teammates have such a big impact on the Hart victory. “It feels awesome, because everyone puts in a ton of work in practice and when coaches are done with practice, everyone’s staying after shooting,” Ackley said. “It’s fun to see everyone else’s work pay off. It’s a ton of fun.”

Reflections of our community

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE Reflections

White Lake Dr. bridge closure extended into May

White Lake Dr. bridge closure extended into May

White Lake Dr. bridge closure extended into May

Additional repairs found to be necessary; cold temps slowing the process

Additional repairs found to be necessary; cold temps slowing the process

Additional repairs found to be necessary; cold temps slowing the process

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

there working now, but temperatures need to warm up in order to pour the concrete."

there working now, but temperatures need to warm up in order to pour the concrete."

there working now, but temperatures need to warm up in order to pour the concrete."

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The White Lake Drive overpass over US-31 will remain closed through most of the spring due to additional necessary repairs discovered while repairing the original hole that appeared in the bridge deck, the Michigan Department of Transportation confirmed in a press release Tuesday.

The White Lake Drive overpass over US-31 will remain closed through most of the spring due to additional necessary repairs discovered while repairing the original hole that appeared in the bridge deck, the Michigan Department of Transportation confirmed in a press release Tuesday.

The White Lake Drive overpass over US-31 will remain closed through most of the spring due to additional necessary repairs discovered while repairing the original hole that appeared in the bridge deck, the Michigan Department of Transportation confirmed in a press release Tuesday.

"Once crews got into it, they discovered a lot more (that needed to be repaired), so we're going to keep it closed and do a proper fix," MDOT regional communications director John Richard said. "The bridge will likely be closed through the end of May. Crews are out

The original hole was opened when a car hit a pothole on the bridge Tuesday, Jan. 6, which led to the White Lake Fire Authority and Whitehall police department teaming to close the bridge to traffic. The original schedule called for the bridge to reopen at the end of this month.

The original hole was opened when a car hit a pothole on the bridge Tuesday, Jan. 6, which led to the White Lake Fire Authority and Whitehall police department teaming to close the bridge to traffic. The original schedule called for the bridge to reopen at the end of this month.

The original hole was opened when a car hit a pothole on the bridge Tuesday, Jan. 6, which led to the White Lake Fire Authority and Whitehall police department teaming to close the bridge to traffic. The original schedule called for the bridge to reopen at the end of this month.

"Once crews got into it, they discovered a lot more (that needed to be repaired), so we're going to keep it closed and do a proper fix," MDOT regional communications director John Richard said. "The bridge will likely be closed through the end of May. Crews are out

"Once crews got into it, they discovered a lot more (that needed to be repaired), so we're going to keep it closed and do a proper fix," MDOT regional communications director John Richard said. "The bridge will likely be closed through the end of May. Crews are out

MDOT regional transportation services director Marc Frederickson spoke at Tuesday's Whitehall city council meeting, updating local residents about the progress of the repairs. He used Memorial Day, May 25, as a likely reopen date, though good weather could help the process move faster than that.

MDOT regional transportation services director Marc Frederickson spoke at Tuesday's Whitehall city council meeting, updating local residents about the progress of the repairs. He used Memorial Day, May 25, as a likely reopen date, though good weather could help the process move faster than that.

MDOT regional transportation services director Marc Frederickson spoke at Tuesday's Whitehall city council meeting, updating local residents about the progress of the repairs. He used Memorial Day, May 25, as a likely reopen date, though good weather could help the process move faster than that.

Frederickson said he anticipates crews being able to pour concrete into the right lane of the bridge next week. Once the concrete is in place on that side, Frederickson said, the northbound

Frederickson said he anticipates crews being able to pour concrete into the right lane of the bridge next week. Once the concrete is in place on that side, Frederickson said, the northbound

Frederickson said he anticipates crews being able to pour concrete into the right lane of the bridge next week. Once the concrete is in place on that side, Frederickson said, the northbound

The White Lake Drive bridge over Exit 126 on US-31 continues to be closed after further necessary repairs were found in the bridge deck. A hole appeared in the deck Jan. 6, which forced the original closure. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The White Lake Drive bridge over Exit 126 on US-31 continues to be closed after further necessary repairs were found in the bridge deck. A hole appeared in the deck Jan. 6, which forced the original closure. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The White Lake Drive bridge over Exit 126 on US-31 continues to be closed after further necessary repairs were found in the bridge deck. A hole appeared in the deck Jan. 6, which forced the original closure. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Exit 126 ramp on US-31 can be opened again so eastbound traffic will be able to exit. The ramp was closed because there would not be sufficient room for cars to slow down on it in its current state. The

process will need to be repeated with the southbound exit ramp once work on

Exit 126 ramp on US-31 can be opened again so eastbound traffic will be able to exit. The ramp was closed because there would not be sufficient room for cars to slow down on it in its current state. The process will need to be repeated with the southbound exit ramp once work on

Exit 126 ramp on US-31 can be opened again so eastbound traffic will be able to exit. The ramp was closed because there would not be sufficient room for cars to slow down on it in its current state. The process will need to be repeated with the southbound exit ramp once work on

Bridge update continued on page 2

Whitehall approves rehab exemption for hotel

Whitehall approves rehab exemption for hotel

Whitehall approves rehab exemption for hotel

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council unanimously approved a commercial rehabilitation exemption certificate for the new owners of Lakeland Inn in Whitehall at its regular meeting Tuesday.

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council unanimously approved a commercial rehabilitation exemption certificate for the new owners of Lakeland Inn in Whitehall at its regular meeting Tuesday.

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council unanimously approved a commercial rehabilitation exemption certificate for the new owners of Lakeland Inn in Whitehall at its regular meeting Tuesday.

The certificate was available as part of the Commercial Rehabilitation District the council created in 2024, said city manager Dan Tavernier. The district essentially comprises most of Colby Street. It will tax the property, soon to be rebranded as Lake Land Getaway, at the $495,000 price Jeremy and Melanie Garcia paid for it for the next 10 years even if the value of the property increases. According to the council's resolution, the Garcias plan to put an estimated $510,000 of rehabilitation into the property, including the renovation of 13 rooms and the addition of outdoor amenities.

The certificate was available as part of the Commercial Rehabilitation District the council created in 2024, said city manager Dan Tavernier. The district essentially comprises most of Colby Street. It will tax the property, soon to be rebranded as Lake Land Getaway, at the $495,000 price Jeremy and Melanie Garcia paid for it for the next 10 years even if the value of the property increases. According to the council's resolution, the Garcias plan to put an estimated $510,000 of rehabilitation into the property, including the renovation of 13 rooms and the addition of outdoor amenities.

The certificate was available as part of the Commercial Rehabilitation District the council created in 2024, said city manager Dan Tavernier. The district essentially comprises most of Colby Street. It will tax the property, soon to be rebranded as Lake Land Getaway, at the $495,000 price Jeremy and Melanie Garcia paid for it for the next 10 years even if the value of the property increases. According to the council's resolution, the Garcias plan to put an estimated $510,000 of rehabilitation into the property, including the renovation of 13 rooms and the addition of outdoor amenities.

Garcia, who attended the meeting, said a hot tub garden and a game room are among the changes and additions slated for the property, which he is aiming to turn into a high-end couples getaway. He cited that there's lots of evidence that similar properties have succeeded on the east and west coasts. There will be no changes to the physical buildings, Garcia said, apart from making one of the units Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible.

Garcia, who attended the meeting, said a hot tub garden and a game room are among the changes and additions slated for the property, which he is aiming to turn into a high-end couples getaway. He cited that there's lots of evidence that similar properties have succeeded on the east and west coasts. There will be no changes to the physical buildings, Garcia said, apart from making one of the units Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible.

Garcia, who attended the meeting, said a hot tub garden and a game room are among the changes and additions slated for the property, which he is aiming to turn into a high-end couples getaway. He cited that there's lots of evidence that similar properties have succeeded on the east and west coasts. There will be no changes to the physical buildings, Garcia said, apart from making one of the units Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible.

Frank Hollister, a local wheelchair user and ADA advocate, made a public comment during the meeting saying it was "super" that the Garcias plan to make their property ADA-compliant and called on the council to work with other hotels in the city limits to do the same. He said no hotels in the city limits are currently compliant, forcing those with disabilities to seek accommodations elsewhere when in the White Lake area.

Council member Tanya Cabala asked if the council could add a provision to its approval requiring the ADA addition to get the certificate, but it was not added, presumably because Garcia said it was already part of the plan for the property.

Council member Tanya Cabala asked if the council could add a provision to its approval requiring the ADA addition to get the certificate, but it was not added, presumably because Garcia said it was already part of the plan for the property.

Council member Tanya Cabala asked if the council could add a provision to its approval requiring the ADA addition to get the certificate, but it was not added, presumably because Garcia said it was already part of the plan for the property.

Frank Hollister, a local wheelchair user and ADA advocate, made a public comment during the meeting saying it was "super" that the Garcias plan to make their property ADA-compliant and called on the council to work with other hotels in the city limits to do the same. He said no hotels in the city limits are currently compliant, forcing those with disabilities to seek accommodations elsewhere when in the White Lake area.

Frank Hollister, a local wheelchair user and ADA advocate, made a public comment during the meeting saying it was "super" that the Garcias plan to make their property ADA-compliant and called on the council to work with other hotels in the city limits to do the same. He said no hotels in the city limits are currently compliant, forcing those with disabilities to seek accommodations elsewhere when in the White Lake area.

The council also heard an update from Michigan Department of Transportation regional services director Marc Frederickson regarding road work in the area. His presentation mostly focused on the White Lake Drive bridge closure (see the cover story in the Mirror), but he also discussed the Business-31 bridge connecting Whitehall and Montague, which is approaching the end of its anticipated useful life.

The council also heard an update from Michigan Department of Transportation regional services director Marc Frederickson regarding road work in the area. His presentation mostly focused on the White Lake Drive bridge closure (see the cover story in the Mirror), but he also discussed the Business-31 bridge connecting Whitehall and Montague, which is approaching the end of its anticipated useful life.

The council also heard an update from Michigan Department of Transportation regional services director Marc Frederickson regarding road work in the area. His presentation mostly focused on the White Lake Drive bridge closure (see the cover story in the Mirror), but he also discussed the Business-31 bridge connecting Whitehall and Montague, which is approaching the end of its anticipated useful life.

Frederickson said the bridge is "a box beam style bridge," which are

Frederickson said the bridge is "a box beam style bridge," which are

Frederickson said the bridge is "a box beam style bridge," which are

City council continued on page 2

City council continued on page 2

City council continued on page 2

White Lake Wanderland activities set for Feb. 6-8

White Lake Wanderland activities set for Feb. 6-8

White Lake Wanderland activities set for Feb. 6-8

The annual White Lake Wanderland is set to return to a frosty White Lake area starting Friday, Feb. 6 and including winter-related activities all weekend. The event is hosted as always by the White Lake Snow Farmers.

The annual White Lake Wanderland is set to return to a frosty White Lake area starting Friday, Feb. 6 and including winter-related activities all weekend. The event is hosted as always by the White Lake Snow Farmers.

The annual White Lake Wanderland is set to return to a frosty White Lake area starting Friday, Feb. 6 and including winter-related activities all weekend. The event is hosted as always by the White Lake Snow Farmers.

Hot Toddy Friday will kick things off Friday, Feb. 6 with tours of nine local establishments available. Ranging from the Chamber Bar and Grill in Whitehall to Wayside Bar and Grill in Montague with several stops in between, Hot Toddy Friday will offer a chance to hop between your favorite local bars and enjoy a beverage along the way. From 5-7 p.m. Friday, there will also be a cardboard sled workshop at the Viking Athletic Center in Whitehall for those seeking tips and tricks to outfit their sleds for the Saturday cardboard sled race at the Hanson Street hill.

Hot Toddy Friday will kick things off Friday, Feb. 6 with tours of nine local establishments available. Ranging from the Chamber Bar and Grill in Whitehall to Wayside Bar and Grill in Montague with several stops in between, Hot Toddy Friday will offer a chance to hop between your favorite local bars and enjoy a beverage along the way. From 5-7 p.m. Friday, there will also be a cardboard sled workshop at the Viking Athletic Center in Whitehall for those seeking tips and tricks to outfit their sleds for the Saturday cardboard sled race at the Hanson Street hill.

Hot Toddy Friday will kick things off Friday, Feb. 6 with tours of nine local establishments available. Ranging from the Chamber Bar and Grill in Whitehall to Wayside Bar and Grill in Montague with several stops in between, Hot Toddy Friday will offer a chance to hop between your favorite local bars and enjoy a beverage along the way. From 5-7 p.m. Friday, there will also be a cardboard sled workshop at the Viking Athletic Center in Whitehall for those seeking tips and tricks to outfit their sleds for the Saturday cardboard sled race at the Hanson Street hill.

It's that race that gets things going Saturday, with registration at 11 a.m. and the race at noon. In addition to speed awards, which will be presented in three age divisions (12 and under, one adult rider with any

other riders 12 and under, and all riders 13 and up), awards will be presented in three other categories. There will be a moxie award based entirely on team spirit, an award for the most attractive or unique sled design, and a Solo Cup award open to participants 21 and over, which will be given to the team that proves best at keeping their beverages in their cup as they sled down the Hanson St. hill. (Full sled race rules, as with info on all other parts of the Wanderland, are available on whitelakesnowfarmers.org.)

other riders 12 and under, and all riders 13 and up), awards will be presented in three other categories. There will be a moxie award based entirely on team spirit, an award for the most attractive or unique sled design, and a Solo Cup award open to participants 21 and over, which will be given to the team that proves best at keeping their beverages in their cup as they sled down the Hanson St. hill. (Full sled race rules, as with info on all other parts of the Wanderland, are available on whitelakesnowfarmers.org.)

other riders 12 and under, and all riders 13 and up), awards will be presented in three other categories. There will be a moxie award based entirely on team spirit, an award for the most attractive or unique sled design, and a Solo Cup award open to participants 21 and over, which will be given to the team that proves best at keeping their beverages in their cup as they sled down the Hanson St. hill. (Full sled race rules, as with info on all other parts of the Wanderland, are available on whitelakesnowfarmers.org.)

here during the

Lake Snow Farmers' Irish New Year celebration Dec. 31, will again be home base for next weekend's

Friday activity beginning at 9 a.m.

It's that race that gets things going Saturday, with registration at 11 a.m. and the race at noon. In addition to speed awards, which will be presented in three age divisions (12 and under, one adult rider with any

It's that race that gets things going Saturday, with registration at 11 a.m. and the race at noon. In addition to speed awards, which will be presented in three age divisions (12 and under, one adult rider with any

If you're looking to warm up after the sled race or just aren't adventurous enough for it, the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center will host a drop-in craft event at 1 p.m. where participants will create a pair of decorative mittens. At 3 p.m. a collection of Reindeer Games will take place, offering participants a chance to join in events like the Toilet Seat Toss and the Snowman Target Challenge to win prizes.

If you're looking to warm up after the sled race or just aren't adventurous enough for it, the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center will host a drop-in craft event at 1 p.m. where participants will create a pair of decorative mittens. At 3 p.m. a collection of Reindeer Games will take place, offering participants a chance to join in events like the Toilet Seat Toss and the Snowman Target Challenge to win prizes.

If you're looking to warm up after the sled race or just aren't adventurous enough for it, the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center will host a drop-in craft event at 1 p.m. where participants will create a pair of decorative mittens. At 3 p.m. a collection of Reindeer Games will take place, offering participants a chance to join in events like the Toilet Seat Toss and the Snowman Target Challenge to win prizes.

at 1 p.m. offers the chance to compete in a

Friday activity beginning at 9 a.m.

at 1 p.m. offers the chance to compete in a

The fun continues Sunday, Feb. 8 with the Bloody Mary Brunch, which offers a morning spin on the Hot

The fun continues Sunday, Feb. 8 with the Bloody Mary Brunch, which offers a morning spin on the Hot

The fun continues Sunday, Feb. 8 with the Bloody Mary Brunch, which offers a morning spin on the Hot

Toddy Friday activity beginning at 9 a.m. The Tug of Four at 1 p.m. offers the chance to compete in a fourperson-per-team tug-of-war competition. Capping off the Wanderland activities is the Winter Snow Broomball competition. The broomball games will feature teams of 4-6 people with four on the field at once, and will resemble hockey except for the obvious differences of a ball instead of a puck, brooms instead of hockey sticks, and a snow-covered grass field instead of an ice rink.

person-per-team tug-of-war competition. Capping off the Wanderland activities is the Winter Snow Broomball competition. The broomball games will feature teams of 4-6 people with four on the field at once, and will resemble hockey except for the obvious differences of a ball instead of a puck, brooms instead of hockey sticks, and a snow-covered grass field instead of an ice rink.

person-per-team tug-of-war competition. Capping off the Wanderland activities is the Winter Snow Broomball competition. The broomball games will feature teams of 4-6 people with four on the field at once, and will resemble hockey except for the obvious differences of a ball instead of a puck, brooms instead of hockey sticks, and a snow-covered grass field instead of an ice rink.

Whitehall Twp. to renovate hall entryway

Doors to be made ADA-compliant, entrance will be more secure

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Township board unanimously approved a line item in the 2026-27 budget that will enable the township to pay for a minor renovation of its hall that will include new entrance doors and a higher-security entrance during its Monday meeting.

The "entire package," said supervisor Dennis Kroll, will cost about $60,000, but since a bid for the full project has not yet been determined the exact number isn't known yet. A main reason for the project is that, Kroll said, the current entrance door is not compliant with the Americans with Disabil-

ities Act, and a complaint could cost the township far more than that $60,000 figure in fines. At the moment the door requires 12 pounds of pull force to open, which exceeds the five permitted by the ADA.

"It's a situation that has existed for far too long," Kroll said.

The renovation, which will be completed in the spring when weather permits the hall to comfortably have open doors for an entire day, will include an automated door that can open upon the push of a button. Due to the 90-day lead time necessary to procure the doors, the project wouldn't be able to be completed until April anyway, which works out well for the township as April 1 is when its new fiscal year begins.

The original project bid the township received also included an automated door to replace the one leading from outside directly into the conference room, but that is not necessary to be compliant with the ADA.

Another key point of the renovation will be a more highly secured entrance, which Kroll said is necessary due to the amount of money that passes through the clerk and treasurer's offices. The new entryway will remove the door directly into those offices; Kroll said it will be modeled after similar changes made at the Montague city hall last fall. There will also be a door with a crash bar installed at the back exits to make a departure easier in case of emergency.

The board gave unanimous approval to a planning commission recommendation to approve a large accessory building that a Silver Creek Road resident requested. The new building, which trustee David Holly said was well away from the road, will be used to store classic cars. Approval was necessary because the building doesn't fully comply with the township's zoning ordinance, but the commission said "there really was no pushback on it," according to Kroll.

Art of Comics coming to Muskegon Museum of Art

The Muskegon Museum of Art is excited to debut POW! The Art of Comics, an exhibition celebrating the art of the comic book and exploring artists who have brought superheroes and villains to life for generations of readers. Opening to the public on Thursday, February 5, visitors will be able to transport themselves into the surreal world of comics to discover how their favorite superheroes transformed from an idea to a sketch, a sketch to an illustrated comic, and a comic to a Hollywood production. POW! The Art of Comics will be on view through May 17.

POW! The Art of Comics explores the fun world of action and drama with over one hundred original comic book drawings spanning from the 1960s all the way to the 2000s. In addition, this exhibition features over one hundred pieces of concept art for major Hollywood and science fiction movies. See firsthand how beloved comic

characters were transformed into an immersive movie experience with storyboards, character designs, and vehicle designs. You will also find yourself transported into the comic itself with unique interactive experiences throughout the exhibition. View iconic props such as an Adam West Batman costume and Magneto helmet, as well as recreations of the 1989 Batmobile and Batsuit. POW! The Art of Comics is a show that is not to be missed. Whether you are visiting

the right lane of the bridge is complete.

Frederickson said when the original hole opened, MDOT's most immediate concern was to ensure concrete would not fall from the bridge onto highway traffic. That was satisfied, but crews found subsequent areas of concern that needed to be addressed. It's likely that the increased number of heavy loads the overpass sees - the bridge serves deliveries made to the Whitehall Industrial Park - contributed to this issue.

It would be a "much more rosy outlook," Fredrickson said, if the issue had come up six months from now, but the cold temperatures have created issues. It needs to be at least 20 degrees outside in order to properly pour concrete.

A full replacement of the structure's deck was already on MDOT's schedule for 2028 as the department makes its way through needed updates to bridges in northern Michigan. Frederickson acknowledged some public feedback to move up that timeline and said while it is not possible to do so in 2026, it may be possible to install the new deck in 2027 if the design phase of the project, which is slated to begin in the spring, goes well and the department is able to maneuver other projects.

Asked by mayor Tom Ziemer if it is possible to make the bridge wider as part of these in-progress re-

old favorites or discovering artwork for the first time, this exhibition has something for all ages.

The Muskegon Museum of Art will also be hosting a Community of Heroes Celebration as part of our opening reception for the exhibition Thursday, Feb. 5 from 5-7 p.m. We are proud to be part of this weeklong celebration. Join us to recognize police officers, firefighters, and their families through art, music, sports, and community.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

pairs - speaking on behalf of bicycle riders - Frederickson said the repairs will likely add an additional foot or two of driving room on each side of the bridge, but the department is limited in what it can do right now due to funding and its philosophy of salvaging and reusing available material whenever possible.

Approval was also given to the administrative compensation schedule for the year, which did not feature much change, Kroll said, and to the poverty guidelines that must be approved each year in order to collect property taxes. The board will determine its contribution to the White Lake area's July 4 fireworks show in March, Kroll said, and there will also be a public hearing March 16 at 4:30 p.m. regarding the township's budget. A February work session will feature discussions about a quote the township received from the Muskegon County Road Commission regarding potential upgrades to most township roads as well as potential other uses for the township's senior millage money. Currently the township uses that money to aid the White Lake United Methodist Church's food bank program, the White Lake Congregational United Church of Christ's Feeding America mobile food bank program and to the White Lake Senior Center for various events.

"cheap and easy to construct," but have since been found not to perform well in cold weather, as the joints between the beams are susceptible to water degradation. The department anticipates 1020 more years of use from the bridge without any work and is in the investigative stage of determining whether a stopgap project or a full replacement of the bridge is the most logical next move. He hopes to have a solid answer later in the year and start the project, whichever the department decides, in the next 5-10 years, and noted that conversations would be had with both municipalities well in advance of work beginning.

The council unanimously approved a senior millage allocation of $9,000 to the Viking Athletic. Center to allow seniors to use the facility at no extra charge, $3,445 to AgeWell Services and $4,800 to the White Lake Senior Center. Council member Scott Brown confirmed that the allocation was identical to 2025 with the exception of $1,000 allocated to the city now going to AgeWell.

The council also unanimously approved a $4,500 budget allocation to support Whitehall students' participation in White Lake Area Community Education's Sports n' Shorts program, with Tavernier confirming that other municipalities support their own students' participation. The council added a unanimous approval of an $11,080 allocation of funding to be used as a 25% match for a grant being pursued by The Playhouse at White Lake. The grant, which would be for $44,320, would support the Playhouse's summer theatre festival.

Tavernier reported that the city has received a $50,000 grant through a pilot program from the State of Michigan. The money, which Tavernier wryly said "is a grant to help us get grants," will enable Tavernier to hire someone to provide assistance completing an application for a $2.5 million Downtown Development Authority grant the city is pursuing.

tickets are $5 or 5 for $20 You must be present to win gun raffle prizes Raffling 10 guns and other items

Try our Friday & Saturday Dinners Two serving times: 5:30 & 7 PM 1204 S Lake St, Whitehall, MI 49461 (231) 894-6263

Saturday, Jan. 31

Izzy Joy performs @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 2

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

Tuesday, Feb. 3

Toddler Story Time @ MADL Montague, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs and play time. Intended for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

Community Calendar

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

Wednesday, Feb. 4

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

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

Thursday, Feb. 5

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or ex-

plore available supplies in the classroom.

1-2-3 Play With Me @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. This play and learn is designed for caregivers and children 0-5 and features an early childhood specialist available at every session to answer any parenting questions you may have. Registration encouraged @ wlclib. org.

Friday, Feb. 6

Play and Learn @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Children 5 and under, along with their

caregivers, will enjoy an hour of stories, songs, and playtime.

Afternoon Hang @ White Lake Community Library, 2 p.m. Tweens 10 and up are invited to play video games, do crafts, eat snacks or just hang out!

The Formers perform @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m. White Lake Wanderland activities begin. Visit whitelakesnowfarmers. org for more information.

Echoes of History: Citizens - Schroeder Sisters (Pt. 1)

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Louise Schroeder was born in Germany Sept. 14, 1852. She arrived in New York May 13, 1873 with her older brother Wilhelm. She made her way to White Lake, and in April 1875 she married Frank Mangold. They had seven children: John G. (1876-1958); Louis W. (1877-1898); Frank E. (1879-1960); Albert W. (1881-1966); Emil H. (18841925); Henry R. (1887-1975); Hedwig “Hettie” (1890-1987).

Franz Peter “Frank” Mangold was born April 2, 1849 in Germany. He left school at the age of 13 and went to Mosburg to learn the trade of watch making, serving as an apprentice for three years. He worked at his trade from place to place until Oct. 6, 1870, when he entered the army enlisting in the King of Bavaria’s own corps. He was honorably discharged July 13, 1873.

He came to the United States in October 1873 and settled in New York for a short time before coming to the White Lake area where his brother John had settled five years prior. Frank worked in lumber mills and camps and the flour mill for a while before opening a jewelry store in 1882.

In 1883 Frank Mangold and G. C. Funk, a tailor, were sharing a storefront in the building identified as the Covell Block. In August 1883, Mangold installed a new safe to accommodate his increasing business.

It was reported in the local paper March 14, 1889 that they had a new awning installed for the front window of their shop. Strangely, a week later it was announced that Mangold planned to move his stock of jewelry to the corner of Colby and Mears occupying a room used as a reading room during the winter. His ads, however, continued to indicate the Covell block as the location of his store, so he must have changed his mind.

On Sept. 18, 1890 they were burned out in the fire that destroyed much of the business district of Whitehall.

A map from 1902 showed a jewelry store located on the corner of Thompson and Colby streets. The map from 1902 also showed that the jewelry store was next to a produce shop, a millinery and a photo studio on the corner where Big John’s Pizza was once located. A city directory listing in 1904 indicated Mangold’s shop was located at Thompson and Colby.

The ads in 1905 did not indicate a specific location, only that Mangold’s was “The Reliable Jeweler”.

Frank Mangold died Nov. 11, 1911 in Montague. His wife Louise died March 20, 1915. They are both buried in Oak Grove Cemetery.

After Frank died, his son John G. took over the business for a while. In 1929 he closed the store but did some watch and jewelry repairs from his home. In 1932 John went to work for

the White Lake Leather Company. He died in 1958.

Johanna Wilhelmine Schroeder was born in Germany Oct. 1, 1855. According to the 1900 Census, she indicated that she immigrated through New York in 1874 – the exact date is unknown. She came to the White Lake area where she married G. C. Funk Oct. 15, 1876. They had four children: Anna (1877-1927); Lewis (1879-1882); Martha (1883-1931); and Arthur (18841955). Their oldest son Lewis died around two years of age from scarlet fever.

Gottlieb Charles “G.C” Funk was

born Jan. 28, 1853 in Germany. He came to Whitehall in 1872 where he worked for a couple of years as a lumberman before going into the tailoring business. He came to be known as The Merchant Tailor.

A map from December 1883 showed a tailor and jeweler occupying the same storefront on Colby. Funk’s tailor ads indicated he was located “2 door East of the Post Office” while Mangold Jewelry ads indicated he was “in the Covell Block”. A review of the map showed the location of the post office – two doors from the tailor shop.

Little Mermaid sing-along coming to library

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Used Book Sale Feb 14

Volunteers, Donations Welcome

Children are invited to dive into a magical morning at the library Saturday, Feb. 7, at 10 a.m. The cast of Whitehall High School’s upcoming production of The Little Mermaid will make a special appearance, bringing the ocean’s sparkle with them! Children and their families will meet the performers, hear behind - the - scenes stories, and join in a lively sing-along featuring some of the show’s most beloved moments - perfect for budding performers and fans of all things under the sea. This event is free, and everyone is welcome. Registration is not required, just join us if you can.

Get a sweetheart of a deal on gently used books at the library Saturday, Feb. 14! You’ll find a huge variety of books, along with jigsaw puzzles, audiobooks, movies, and more. Sale hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but come early for the best selection. With most items priced at $2 or less - and just $5 for a whole bagful - the books disappear quickly!

If you’d like to help the library have a good sale, please consider volunteering for an hour or two. You are welcome to be part of the set-up crew the day before or to work a shift on Saturday. Sign-up sheets are available at the library, or call 231-894-9531 to volunteer. Donations for the sale are always welcome, too. We accept clean, gently-used books, DVDs, music, and puzzles. Check out our donation guidelines on the website at wlclib.org/ book-donations, and please call ahead if you have more than two boxes you’d like to drop off.

FUN FACT: The library’s most suc-

cessful book sale was a three-day extravaganza of used books that brought in $3,215.05 in August 2023. We now offer four quarterly one-day-only book sales and a Holiday Store sale which together bring in approximately $3,000 per year.

Blood Drive Feb. 4

There are still appointments available for the upcoming blood drive at the library Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 1:30-6 p.m. If you are an eligible donor and you’d like to help save lives in our community, please consider scheduling an appointment at bit.ly/bloodfeb2026 or call 866-642-5663. Although appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome as the schedule allows.

1-2-3 Play With Me Workshop Starts This Week

It’s not too late to take advantage of the next 1-2-3 Play With Me workshop series at the library! The next 5-week session starts Thursday, Feb. 5 and continues each Thursday from 5:30- 6:30 p.m. through March 5. This popular program not only provides

some great playtime opportunities for families with children ages 0-5, it also offers a unique opportunity to speak informally with a different community resource professional each week. There are no classes or presentations, just a chance to get your questions answered one on one with a nutritionist, a speech therapist, a child development specialist, and more. Registration is encouraged and space is limited. For more information or to register, please visit bit.ly/123pwmwinter26.

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community Whitehall edges Fruitport, continues GMAA run

Vikings win 19th title in 20 years; girls compete in 1st GMAA event

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

RAVENNA — Whitehall isn't accustomed to being tested at the GMAA tournament, so when the Vikings entered the final two championship bouts Saturday needing to win one to secure the team title, it was a pressure-packed spot. Luckily, sophomore Isaac O'Boyle was up to the challenge.

O'Boyle defeated Muskegon's Rodney Addison in the 126-pound championship match in a tough 8-5 battle, securing his Vikings their 19th GMAA crown in 20 years, by a 206-202 margin over runner-up Fruitport.

It was O'Boyle's first GMAA title, and having it clinch a team championship made it all the sweeter.

"That feeling's one of the best in the world," O'Boyle said. "I got taken down first, and I just (felt like), I've got to keep going because it could come down to me. I didn't know how Cody's match would go, but I knew it was definitely important (for me to win)."

O'Boyle managed to score an escape point at the end of the first period to limit the damage of Addison's takedown, then scored a two-point reversal on Addison in the second. In the third period, he scored a takedown that proved to be the final margin of victory. Because the win ensured the Vikings' championship, Whitehall's coaches, including head

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

coach Justin Zeerip, who's normally unflappable on the mat, were more visibly fired up about O'Boyle's win than usual because of what it meant.

"He puts a lot of time in and he's a sophomore, so I think he's got a bright future ahead of him, and it's really cool that he could win the tournament today," Zeerip said.

O'Boyle's first-place finish was one of only two for Whitehall in the boys' division, an abnormally low total for the Vikings; Liam Leeke scored three straight pins at 165 to easily win his weight class. To win the tournament, it took every wrestler delivering victories, including in the consolation bracket.

GMAA wrestling

continued on page 5

Vikes play season's best game in win over MCC

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall played what coach Brian Milliron called his team's most complete game of the season Tuesday night to earn a West Michigan Conference cross-division win over Mason County Central, 52-46.

"We haven't played a 32-minute game yet, but I thought we were close tonight," Milliron said.

The Vikings (4-8) grabbed the lead early in the second quarter with a 9-0 scoring run and held it almost the whole way after that. MCC briefly retook the lead late in the fourth quarter, but two free throws by Emma Decker put the Vikes back on top for good.

Decker's putting Whitehall on top was fitting, as the senior forward played "the best game of her high school career," Milliron said. She totaled 16 points, tied for the team lead with Peyton Schultz and tied for her career high, as well as grabbing five rebounds.

Usually an ace rebounder more so than a fast-break factor, Decker showed her offensive skill in the third quarter, scoring 10 points in that frame alone, many of them on the run. The Vikings, who have had struggles scoring in the half-court offense this year,

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

have worked on getting on the break of late to get some easy points. Tuesday's effort produced the biggest results yet in that department, as the 52 points marked the Vikings' season high.

"We've definitely been working (to) get the ball down the court as fast as possible and getting those free layups," Decker said. "We've been working really hard to get more transition buckets, because that definitely can help improve our scoring."

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

It was Schultz who provided the early boost for Whitehall, drilling three three-pointers in the first half, scoring six of the team's first 10 points. The Vikings haven't benefited from many fast starts, and getting Schultz, the team's best shooter, going quickly was a great way to reverse that trend.

MCC answered Schultz's early surge to take a 16-12 lead to end the first quarter - Jessica Petersen hit a

Montague's Gavyn Maddox (right) wrestles against Muskegon's Ke'yaun Bradford in the 144-pound finals of Saturday's GMAA tournament in Ravenna. Maddox finished 2nd in his weight class. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

GMAA wrestling

"I thought every single one of our guys in the lineup today wrestled really hard," Zeerip said. "We won by a small margin, so every single point mattered, and we knew it was going to be tough.

"There's some really good teams this year in this tournament, so we knew it was going to be tight going in. We were really stressing to look for pins and look for tech(nical falls) and majors. I was proud of how tough and gritty our kids were today, and how they wrestled hard every single match."

Whitehall had several other finalists who finished in second place. Max Krukowski took second at 138, scoring a technical fall and a decision to reach the finals before falling to Fruitport's Murphy Lengkeek in overtime. Kolten Weiler also lost a close finals match, 8-5 to Montague's Fletcher Thommen, after earning a pair of pins at 150, and Robert Belinger picked up two pins on his way to a second-place finish at 106 as well.

Cody Manzo also finished second, at 132, and along the way he scored his 150th career victory. He scored a pin and a technical fall to finish second. Dom Zygmuntowski (120) and Billy Darke (215) placed third.

"We only had two champs today, so it was important for a lot of our guys that came back on the back side, and came back and got third and fourth (place)," Zeerip said. "That was huge for points. I just thought that our kids competed really hard, and we just want to keep getting better every time we go out there."

Reeths-Puffer finished third behind one boys' champion: Freshman Landon Learn, who has enjoyed an overpowering first run in high school wrestling and is now 29-0. Learn only had to wrestle twice to win the title at 113, pinning both of his opponents.

Learn, who was a star at the youth ranks as well, said he never expected to have this much success so early in high school, but doing so has opened his eyes to what he can accomplish. He now wants to win a regional championship, with full knowledge he'll have to go through stars like Brighton's Jameson Wood to do it.

"I thought high school was going to be this huge (jump up)," Learn said. "It's a mental block you need to get past. I've wrestled some good kids, but you just need to get past that mental block and just keep wrestling...I'm going for

Reeths-Puffer's Travis Henderson (right) duels with Whitehall's Dom Zygmuntowski in the 120-pound semifinals of Saturday's GMAA tournament in Ravenna. Henderson went on to take 2nd and Zygmuntowski was 3rd. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

continued from page 4

Whitehall's Kassie Sapp (left) keeps an eye on the clock while battling Montague's Alex Dugan during a match at Saturday's GMAA tournament in Ravenna. Sapp was one of four area girls to earn weight-class titles in the firstever girls GMAA competition. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Jameson. I'm going to try to get him."

Rockets' coach Brad Cowles said Learn boasts great technical skills and wrestles very aggressively, a tough combination for opponents.

"He doesn't take days off," Cowles said. "Monday through Sunday, and in the summertime, four or five days a week. He wrestles all year in national tournaments. He puts in the work."

Besides Learn, Travis Henderson was the only Rocket to make the finals, going 2-1 with a pin and a major decision to take second place. R-P did have seven thirdplace finishers. Hunter Eek (144), Tanner Cowles (150), Aiden Neal (165), Andrew Corradin (175), Braxton VanHohenstein (106), Max Knowlton (126) and Cory Judd (132) all took third.

"We're still without our starter, Jake Rozycki, that could have made a huge impact for us today, too," Cowles said. "We could have been up there. We were out our heavyweight. Those were two starters. Once they're healthy and we have a full lineup of healthy wrestlers, we'll be (better off)."

Montague placed fifth, a solid showing given the Wildcats were unable to fill four weight classes. Thommen and Isaac French each won their weight classes, and French's championship win was one of the day's highlights. The senior, forced to the sideline several times due to a nosebleed in the 190-pound finals, wrapped a makeshift mask around his nose to stop the bleeding and scored a dramatic third-period pin against Fruitport's Colton Smith, despite trailing 8-6 at the time. Thommen, meanwhile, boasts a perfect 29-0 mark on the season.

Gavyn Maddox added a second-place finish at 144, rallying to

defeat Eek in the semifinals and earning a technical fall as well.

"The GMAA is a great tournament which pushes our kids with good, tough competition getting us ready for the tail end of our season," coach Kris Maddox said. "It’s a day that is filled with quality competition across the board."

Girls get first crack at GMAA

Saturday also saw a milestone at the GMAA, as a separate girls division was contested. Since there were not enough wrestlers for full brackets, each weight class wrestled a round-robin, with final standings determining a winner. Girls' points were not included in the final team standings.

Each local school produced at least one girls champion in the historic meet. Kassie Sapp won the 130-pound title for Whitehall, pinning all five of her opponents in the first period, and Miley Manzo added the 110/115 title, scoring two pins and a technical fall. Reeths-Puffer's Sidney Shackelford pinned one foe and scored a technical fall against the other to win at 145/155,  and Montague's Zaniya Meza pinned all four of her opponents at 105 to win that weight class.

Brooklyn Colson finished second for R-P at 120/125, going 3-1 with two wins by pin, and Makenna Deshong was second for Whitehall at 170/190 with a pair of pin victories.

"It's the first year they've done girls' charts, so it's really cool for (them) to be the first girls champ for us," Zeerip said. "Kassie's had a great season so far. She lost maybe the first weekend out, and she's been on a roll since then. She's excited for the postseason. She should be successful."

Montague's Zaniya Meza stays on top of North Muskegon's Audra Allen during a 105-pound match in Saturday's GMAA tournament. Meza pinned all her opponents to win the top spot. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Robert Belinger (right) tries to maintain control against Fruitport's Austin Jacobs during Saturday's GMAA tournament in Ravenna.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Sports in Brief

Boys Basketball

Orchard View 62 Montague 56

It was the 7th time in 12 Wildcat losses, coach Nick Thaler said, that his team was close to a win. Cole Herremans scored 16 points.

Covenant Christian 71 Whitehall 48

Pierce Westerlund scored 13 points for Whitehall, and Alex Winczewski and Corde Anderson each added 12. Anderson had 8 rebounds.

Reeths-Puffer 65 East Grand Rapids 63 Marvin Moore hit the game-winning shot for the Rockets. Moore scored 24 points, and Rodney Walker and Artis Williams each added 13. Fruitport 75 Montague 25

The Wildcats were outscored 24-6 in the first quarter of the loss. Dexter Lillmars had 21 points and DayDay Williams 20 for Fruitport. Fremont 54 Whitehall 48

Corde Anderson had a big game in the defeat, going for 16 points and 19 rebounds. Pierce Westerlund added 13 points and Elijah Smith had 10. Caledonia 61 Reeths-Puffer 53

Marvin Moore led the Rockets with 19 points. The team hit 6 threepointers in the game and led 28-27 at the half.

Girls Basketball

Caledonia 41 Reeths-Puffer 30

Raquel Walker scored 11 points for the Rockets. Olivia Foster scored 16 points for the Scots.

Montague 39 Orchard View 35

Annelyse Schneider scored 9 points to lead the Wildcats in a close win. Marguerite O'Connell added 8 points.

Shelby 64 Montague 17

Montague was unable to get much going against Shelby, which is tied for 15th in the most recent Division 3 AP poll. Gentry Knop and Marguerite O'Connell each scored 6 points.

Wrestling

Whitehall 2-0 at home quad

The Vikings defeated Hesperia 65-12 and Ravenna 77-6. Robert Belinger, Dom Zygmuntowski, Isaac O'Boyle, Cody Manzo, Max Krukowski, Kolten Weiler, Liam Leeke, Colten Kyser and Tanner Woodworth went 2-0.

Reeths-Puffer 2-0 at East Kentwood quad

The Rockets defeated Jenison 46-31 and Grandville 36-34. Rockets to post 2-0 records were Landon Learn, Travis Henderson, Hunter Eek, Tanner Cowles and Devin Welch.

Bowling Reeths-Puffer teams fall to Jenison

The Rocket boys lost 21-9, and the girls fell 21-3. Ryleigh Beebe had the boys' high game, a 236, and went 2-0 in his matchups. Sam Cryderman paced the Rocket girls with a 144.

Hockey

Reeths-Puffer 3 Jenison 1

The Rockets scored the game's final 3 goals. Jordan Benkert scored twice, and Sheldon Fredrick had a goal. Eli Cuti recorded 2 assists.

Montague seniors end home season strong

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Senior night at Montague saw most of the eight Wildcat seniors get on the mat, and several go out with a bang in their final high school home matches.

The Wildcats fell to Mason County Central 45-30, but defeated the Whitehall B team 59-23. Whitehall's B teamers also faced Fremont, falling 59-24.

Wildcat seniors Fletcher Thommen, Kaiden Jeffery, Isaac French, Michael Jones and Maverick Osborne each notched 2-0 records. Fellow seniors Ben Hayes and Emma Trevino also joined their parents for senior night recognition.

"They've been huge," Montague assistant coach Aaron Nold said of the Wildcat seniors honored. They've really given us their all these past four years, and have been real glue guys...It's been a lot of fun to have them."

The Wildcats fell behind big to MCC early on, 35-6, before coming back to pull within 39-30. With Osborne set to receive a forfeit win at 285 pounds, the 'Cats needed one more win at 215 to pull off the comeback, but were unable to get it.

Montague was able to take advantage of several forfeit wins against the shorthanded Viking B teamers to pick up a win in its second match of the night. Jones earned two pins on his 2-0 night, and each of the other four 2-0 wrestlers scored an on-mat win and a forfeit win.

The Wildcats have enjoyed a strong dual meet season, though with the postseason on the way, focus will soon be turning to the pursuit of a run at individual state. Nold said both Maddox boys, Gavyn and Chayse, are poised to make a run at state, as well as Jeffery. Several other seniors already have significant postseason experience, such as Thommen and Jones, and a repeat performance is expected.

"I expect them to make it there again this year, so hopefully they can get their names on the  (all-state) board again," Nold said of the veterans.

On the girls' side, Nold is optimistic of a Ford Field run by Zaniya Meza, who he said has been wrestling well.

"She's really firing on all cylinders," Nold said. "She didn't get an opportunity (to wrestle) tonight, but she's doing really well."

Whitehall's B team had only seven athletes Wednesday, but assistant coach Jarrean Sargent loves the opportunities his younger wrestlers have to compete, noting that the Viking reserves always go up against varsity teams and not to JV tournaments.

"It's not like they get to take a day off and go wrestle somebody bad," Sargent said. "They wrestle everybody, from Kent City to Montague and Fremont, everybody. That's what I like to see."

Miley Manzo, who pinned two boys wrestlers, was the Vikings' lone two-time winner on the night. Kassie Sapp, the returning state runner-up, draws

Vikes win

trey, then hit two free throws after being fouled with 6.1 seconds to go - but Whitehall locked down on defense in the second quarter, holding MCC scoreless the first five minutes.

The Viking defense was strong for almost the entire three quarters, but for a brief lapse, Milliron said, in the fourth during which MCC turned a 4333 Whitehall lead into a 46-45 Spartan advantage. Fortunately, after Decker's free throws put the Vikes back on top, MCC missed a pair of free throws and Schultz hit her final three-pointer of the night to make it 50-46.

Whitehall did solidly against the MCC press, apart from that early fourth-quarter stretch in which MCC briefly got the lead. Opponents have been running a lot of press defense against the Vikings to challenge their ballhandlers, and Tuesday was one of the team's best performances yet against it.

"They played a press, which we

•

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

most of the attention among Viking girls, but Manzo, who won a GMAA title Saturday, is swiftly making a name for herself, along with up-and-comer Makenna Deshong.

"(I'm looking) for them to really start to take that stride to the next level," Sargent said of the Whitehall girls trio. "Obviously, Kassie's been there. Miley is working her way there and Makenna's working her way there. I just want to see them take that next step."

Sargent said he likes the attitude his wrestlers bring to the mat, despite never really knowing how many wrestlers the B team will have on hand for any given match.

"They show up ready to go every day," Sargent said. "That's what I like. They don't care if we send seven guys, five guys, or a full team, they're ready to go every time."

Above right, Montague's Kaiden French tries to battle out of a hold by Whitehall's Joe Thommen during Wednesday's Montague Quad. At right, Montague's Chayse Maddox takes on Whitehall's Jacob Hershey. The Wildcat boys defeated the Whitehall B team, 59-23.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

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were expecting, but I think we handled the pressure well and did a good job of beating them back a few times to get some open layups," Decker said.

It wasn't just the Decker and Schultz show, either. Clare Westerlund, the team's leading scorer, passed out most of her seven assists to them during the game, as well as scoring seven points and grabbing eight rebounds. Janie Fagan had six points and Ellie Conklin had five.

"We don't have any D-I girls on this team, and so a slugfest is how we have to win games," Milliron said. "I can't make them taller because we don't have a lot of tall girls here, but we can make them a little bit tougher. Thankfully we have some great seniors, along with Clare and Peyton and Reese Hesse, who played a good game tonight. They're a really good group, too. I don't have issues. They're just a fun group to coach."

Recent Whitehall police activity

Behind the Badge Whitehall Police Report

Jan. 22

Officers were called to the 400 block of S Division St. at 7:48 p.m. on

a suspicious occurrence. The reporting parties advised they had left home for about an hour and a half, and during that time, the crates their dogs were in moved from the kitchen to the living room. Nothing appeared to be stolen and there was no appearance of forced entry, but the parties thought it was odd that the crates had moved. They were unable to verify if they'd locked the home when they left.

Jan. 23

Officers were called to the 500 block of E Muskegon Ave. at 5:26 p.m. regarding a larceny complaint. The reporting party indicated that an item her son had ordered for her on Ama-

zon was supposed to have arrived two days prior and were not on porch when she checked. The missing items were TV trays valued at less than $100. The matter remains under investigation.

At 11:01 p.m., officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle that was traveling at 20 miles per hour but not maintaining its lane. Contact was made with the driver and passenger. The driver, a 25-year-old male from Muskegon, had a suspended driver's license and also had a warrant for failing to appear in court in Grand Haven. The subject was arrested on the misdemeanor warrant and was cited for driving with a suspended license. The vehicle was

released to the passenger, who had a valid driver's license.

Jan. 28

At 2:57 p.m., officers were called in reference to a custody dispute in the 900 block of E Colby St. While there, the male half of the dispute arrived with a suspended driver's license. The male half of the dispute was also found to have no insurance on his vehicle. The subject was cited for driving with a suspended license and was given a court date. He was allowed to keep the car parked there but was told he could not take the car until he had a valid license and insurance.

MHSAA permits players to pursue NIL deals

The MHSAA representative council announced Tuesday afternoon in a press release that effective immediately, MHSAA student-athletes are allowed to pursue and benefit from personal branding activities - commonly known as name, image and likeness (NIL) activities.

The MHSAA had previously allowed some such opportunities, including student-athletes' conducting camps, clinics and private lessons. The expanded policy allows student-athletes to capitalize on more of these opportunities, with some limitations.

The MHSAA release said that the topic of NIL opportunities has consistently been addressed over the last three years as it has become more and more common at the collegiate level. Though it did not

ultimately come up for a vote, the Michigan legislature proposed amending state law to allow for student-athletes’ use of NIL in 2023, which the MHSAA supported.

According to Opendorse, a marketplace that helps athletes arrange NIL deals, nearly every state in the U.S. allowed some form of NIL benefits for high school athletes as of last November, with only Indiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Hawaii not allowing it after the MHSAA's announcement.

“We have said from the start of this conversation that the MHSAA could be comfortable with a policy that provides individual branding opportunities for individual student-athletes, and this rule change provides those while excluding the possibility of collectives, and boosters and

school people getting involved in those activities,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said in the release. “This is the essence of what NIL was supposed to allow in the first place, and we’re confident we’ve crafted language that allows true NIL opportunities without affecting competitive equity among our member schools.”

Additional activities allowed by the new policy include social media endorsements and promotions, personal appearances, photo sessions or autograph signings; modeling, advertising, merchandise, sports cards or apparel sales; and the use of a student’s name, image or likeness in marketing materials. There remain some limitations in place. Schools are not permitted to be directly

involved in any way in a student-athlete's NIL activities, and school logos, mascots or trademarks may not be used. Student-athletes also cannot promote gambling, alcohol or banned substances.

“The MHSAA will guard the competitive equity we have promoted for more than 100 years, and take with the utmost seriousness any attempts to break or blur this rule,” Uyl said in the release. “We have provided clear language and sufficient guidance on what is allowed to assist our schools as they navigate this ever-chang-

ing landscape.”

All such activities must be disclosed to the MHSAA within seven days of an opportunity or contract for disclosure and approval. Schools may choose to have stricter rules regarding these NIL activities if they choose to do so.

For more details on what is and what is not allowed, and frequently asked questions about MHSAA regulations, visit the MHSAA Name, Image, Likeness page at mhsaa.com/ name-image-likeness.

Plug In programs offer creatives a chance to be part of 2026 Electric Forest, win tickets

The Electric Forest announced Monday its 2026 Plug In programs, which invite Forest enthusiasts to contribute creative involvement to festival producers. Winners receive admission wristbands to the Electric Forest, which is slated for June 25-28.

Among the opportunities available are:

Art Installation Sponsorship - Artists and builders can bring their most ambitious and original works to life to display at the Forest. Festival organizers fund and support select interactive sculptures and immersive spaces to bring new experiences each year.

Art Spark - Submit your vision for an art installation and Forest Art Time can help it bloom into reality. No experience necessary.

Brainery Workshops - Passionate minds are invited to lead interactive sessions and spark curiosity. Workshops can cover everything from crafting and EDM line dancing to meditation and breathwork.

Chapel Parties for the PeopleSubmit a theme party concept and, if selected, collaborate with the production crew to bring it to life in the Psychedelic Chapel.

Radio on Air Extraordinaire - As-

piring radio personalities and show hosts can take the opportunity to collaborate with the Forest team and create on-air content.

Her Forest - Female Forest Family members can offer a space for connection, inspiration and care to lift the community higher.

Luminaria - Luminarias are dedicated to spirits that are welcome in the Forest.

Sticker Design Contest - Submit a design inspired by the Electric Forest theme, and the winning piece will become the official sticker of the 2026 festival.

Prize Cart Remix - Motivated and eco-minded fans can earn prizes each night upon the stage closure. The Prize Cart bears gifts to those who pick up trash and return it to the cart.

Wish Machine - Share an inspirational or charitable deed you've done or plan to do and cast a wish for what you'd like to experience at the Forest.

Discovery Project - Up-and-coming DJs can showcase their talents at the Forest.

For more information and to enter, visit electricforest.com/plug-in-programs.

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