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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 3, volume 80
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Thursday, January 21, 2021
Berrien County Health Department, Spectrum Health Lakeland working together to ‘ramp up’ vaccination effort PAGE 3
Village of Three Oaks police chief resigns PAGE 5
Door opens for high school basketball season PAGE 9
New Buffalo Girl Scout troops kick off cookie season PAGE 12 New Buffalo Township Board adopts resolutions for proposed Public Safety Special Assessment District PAGE 17
HERE’S HOPING...
NEW MDHHS EPIDEMIC ORDER MAY ALLOW RESTAURANTS TO OFFER INDOOR DINING FEB. 1 — PAGE 6 — PHOTO BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
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Berrien County Health Department, Spectrum Health Lakeland working together to ‘ramp up’ vaccination effort
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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
he Berrien County Health Department and Spectrum Health Lakeland are moving in “lockstep” to vaccinate residents of Berrien County, Nicki Britten, health officer for the health department, Loren Hamel, president of Spectrum Health Lakeland, said in a joint Facebook Live chat Thursday, Jan. 14. Michigan moved to a new phase of vaccination Jan. 11. Those in the new phase of vaccinations include residents age 65 and older, frontline essential workers including police officers, first responders, jail and juvenile center staff; and preK-12 teachers and childcare providers. On Jan. 11, the health department and Spectrum Health Lakeland began offering limited vaccine appointments to those in the next phase of eligibility. “We’re working for one strategy for our community and as partners taking the pieces that make the most sense for how we’re able to
most sufficiently serve the community as a whole,” Britten said. Both agencies have been working through those who are eligible in the Phase 1A priority group, which includes health care workers and those who work in long-term care facilities. Britten reiterated that the demand for the vaccine “far outstrips the supply” in Berrien County, and that there are approximately 40,000 people who are currently eligible for the vaccine in the county “and nowhere even close to that amount available to do the vaccines.” On Jan. 14, Britten said that there were an estimated 14,000 people waiting for the vaccine on the 65 years and older list. At the same time the health department is starting to work through older adults, so, too, is Spectrum Health Lakeland. Both are working from similar lists, Britten said. At one community clinic on the previous day, Hamel said that nearly 600 shots were given.
“We are planning for a capacity of 1,000 to 2,000 in a clinic so we are going to always be ready for additional supply if we get it – we will never have the constraint where we have way more vaccine doses than we can give away,” Hamel said. The unpredictability of the vaccine’s supply makes planning ahead slightly complicated, Britten said. “Sometime, we just don’t know how much until we receive notification once a week – ‘Here’s how much vaccine you get the next week’ - we really don’t know, so we are planning far out,” she said. “I think both Berrien County Health Department and Spectrum Health Lakeland have a good idea of what we want to be planning for the next six weeks’ worth of clinics and how we’re ramping up our capacity,” she added. Because the health department and Spectrum Health Lakeland want to ensure that a vaccine is available by the time they get to an appointment and by the time someone has an appointment scheduled, Britten
said that the two agencies aren’t scheduling appointment times that are “four weeks out.” “So, we’re planning for and building the capacity and the appointment slots are becoming available with a few days’ notice,” she said. For this reason, Britten said, those who are on the waitlists should be checking their emails daily, since they might not have a lot of time to plan ahead on when they’re receiving the vaccine. Those in the county who are 65 or older can be placed on a waitlist by completing a form at www.bchdmi.org/. Residents can also complete the survey available via Lakeland MyChart located under “questionnaires” in the My Record section. Those without internet access can call the health department’s COVID hotline, 1-800-815-5485. On Wednesday, Jan. 20, Berrien County reported 9,636 confirmed cases and 761 probable cases and 187 confirmed deaths, according to the health department, and has reported 8,085 30-day recoveries.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times
Democracy Requires Transparency
CITY OF NEW BUFFALO MAYOR JOHN HUMPHREY CITY COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DDA) MEETING Meets on the 2nd Thursday May, September, and November at 8AM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS Meets on the first 1st Tuesday Quarterly at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM
Chikaming Township to archive its social media
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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
embers of the Chikaming Township Board of Trustees approved a proposal from a company that will now archive material from the township’s social media channels. At their Thursday, Jan. 14, meeting, board members approved a quote from Archive Social for social media archiving in the amount of $2,388 annually, with plans to review the proposal again in November. Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said that, with the assistance of officer Paige Holtz and the police department, the company did a recent test run for free a month and a half ago on Chikaming Township’s social media. Board members were being asked if they wanted the company to continue to archive all of the township’s social media. Bunte said that anything that the township puts out on its Facebook pages, whether it be through the police department, the parks department or the township, is subject to a Freedom of Information request and is therefore part of a record that needs to be “retained.” Board trustee Rich Sullivan said that he was unsure of how the township may be responsible for comments made on social media posts. “It would seem like if we posted something there may be comments about the ice rink or whatever, but unless we engage as the person who posted it what happens between the public – any debate the public may have over what we posted, we’re not
really responsible for that, are we?” he Board members approved a request said. from Chikaming Township Police The township should have the ability Chief Todd Taylor to move $7,000 to go back and retain any information from the police department’s partif someone from the public were to time budget to the computer budget. request it “based on comments that Bunte said that a lot of funds have were made and any kind of reaction on been spent to keep the current mobile any social media account,” Bunte said. computers, which have spent four “If something were to be posted years in the patrol vehicles, in a “state on there and someone were to have of usability.” Funds needed to be a comment that would need to be moved around in the current year’s retrieved for something budget in order to make that were to happen in the purchase as well as to the future pertaining to Chikaming this topic and we don’t install and program the Township have access to it we’d be computers. Supervisor David liable for that,” he said. Bunte said that, Bunte added that the with the assistance pon a township doesn’t have of officer Paige request from any control over people’s Holtz and the the Berrien comments on Facebook. police department, County Bunte said that the company did Emergency no draft lakefront a recent test run Management and shoreline revetment for free a month Berrien County Board ordinance, which is and a half ago of Commissioners, currently being worked on Chikaming a resolution on on by the township’s Township’s social emergency management environmental attorney, media. Board coordinators for the was available for the members were county was adopted. board to discuss that being asked if The resolution lists night. Once a draft they wanted Bunte as the primary would be available, the the company public would have the emergency management to continue to chance to review it on liaison for Chikaming archive all of the the township’s website Township as well as fire township’s social as well as would be media. chief Mike Davidson presented during a as the first backup special township meeting. and Taylor as the second one. At their December meeting, board Bunte said he’d be acting in a more members approved engaging Scott management role to assist the public Howard of Olson, Bzdok & Howard, while Davidson and Taylor would be PC, for the creation of the proposed associated with the actual emergency. police power ordinance.
To say nothing, especially when speaking, is half the art of diplomacy. — Will Durant
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
Village of Three Oaks police chief resigns
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he Village of Three Oaks is looking for a new police chief, following the resignation of chief Dennis Buller. In a brief letter to the village that was read at the Wednesday, Jan. 13, Three Oaks Village Council meeting, Buller stated he would be resigning effective immediately. The council accepted Buller’s resignation, with councilmember Steve mGraziano expressing appreciation for Buller’s dedication to the community. Village Manager Dan Faulkner said the village will post the position. He, village president Richard Smith and Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey will interview candidates before making a recommendation to the council. In December, the village lost another employee when Quentin Clark, water and sewer superintendent, tendered his resignation to accept a position with the City of Dowagiac. On Faulkner’s recommendation, during the January meeting, the council approved a $1/ hour pay increase for Department of Public Works employee Nathan Smith, who will help with water and sewer
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operations. Faulkner said Smith has previous experience in the water department and has a lagoon license. Smith will also serve as a back-up operator. During the Jan. 13 meeting, the council discussed ways for the village to take part in the Redevelopment Ready Communities program, which is a way for municipalities to utilize communication to attract businesses and investments. Councilmember Colleen Newquist suggested forming a committee to better address the matter. Newquist said she was willing to head the committee, with councilmembers Tyler Ream and Joe Hinman expressing interest. Hinman also proposed the council explore including a newsletter with village water bills. Councilmembers agreed the village website needs to be made more user friendly. Faulkner told the council that the marihuana ordinance bidding update was not ready for review and he hoped it would be presented at the February meeting. Councilmember Becky Thomas voiced concerns that Joslyn Monahan, the attorney hired to guide
the village through the process of developing a marihuana ordinance, has not provided answers for many committee questions. Thomas said she did not want the village to hire a new attorney, but said she would like Monahan to be better prepared when attending meetings. The council approved a body-worn camera policy for the Three Oaks Police Department. Hinman suggested adding language to set consequences for violating the policy. The council also approved the council rules of procedure, setting guidelines to run meetings.
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n his Manager’s Report to the council, Faulkner said three manhole covers near U.S. 12 had infiltration into the village sewage system. In order to correct this, the manholes will need to be raised, which requires a permit from MDOT. Faulkner said he has applied for state permission for the permit. He also reported a water analysis showed all three filters are “working great” and there have been no complaints of unpleasant smelling water since the hydrants were flushed last fall.
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
Referring to plans for a possible grow operation under the new marihuana ordinance, Thomas expressed concern that waste from such a business would overwhelm the sewer system with nutrients, which could lead to plant growth in the lagoons. Faulkner said the concern will be addressed by the planning commission. Faulkner said the village should learn in the next few months if it will receive a competitive grant to identify and map service lines in the village with GPS. Ream reported to the council that the Harbor Country Rotary Club is hoping to coordinate with the village as part of a nationwide Rotary Club project to plant pollinator-friendly flowers. He said a resident has offered to donate an iceskating rink to the village, but there still needs to be discussion on location and storage. Smith reported downtown merchants have expressed concerns about the number of feral cats in the area. He said a trap, neuter, release program has already treated many of the cats, and he suggested people not feed the cats. Thomas said she has not seen any kittens over the last year.
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BLESSED...
t’s good to have neighbors who pitch in over the holidays! River Valley Blessings in a Backpack would like to acknowledge our community “neighbors” who provided extra support at Christmas. Fifty-dollar grocery gift certificates for Harding’s Friendly Market in Three Oaks were included in each child’s pack; Dennis and Staci have helped our project each year. Greg Rowles and Steven Witcher of Harbor Country Toys for Tots provided special gifts for the packs. The Pokagon Fund awarded funds for the bulk of our food costs. Thank you, all! River Valley Blessings in a Backpack provides food on the weekends for school children who might otherwise go hungry. Our program is made possible through volunteers’ time and efforts, food and cash donations, and grant awards. One hundred percent of all donations go toward the cost of the food. For more information about the program, please visit blessingsinabackpack.org or our Facebook page, or call (269) 756-9812. — VICKIE WAGNER, PROGRAM COORDINATOR
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
New MDHHS epidemic order allows indoor group exercise, non-contact sports
FASTER RAIL TRAVEL TO CHICAGO BECOMING REALITY
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ll funding is now in place for making travel to and from Chicago much quicker by rail. The $175 million share of the half billion-dollar double track project by the South Shore Railroad commuter line is now in place from the federal government. “We are off and running,” said Jim Arnold, a board member with the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District. Arnold said the hope is to begin construction of a second rail from Michigan City to Gary as soon as early June. Construction is expected to be finished in 2023. “It’s now going to become a reality,” said Arnold, a former Indiana state senator of LaPorte. The state is providing $200 million while the remainder of the funds are coming from local sources like Michigan City and LaPorte County governments. A second rail is expected to reduce travel to and from Michigan City and Chicago each way by more than 30 minutes. Acquiring property for laying the second set of tracks and other related improvements has been ongoing for more than a year and pretty much be wrapped up before construction. A study predicts faster travel will generate major economic development in Michigan City from people living in Chicago moving here because of quicker commutes to work. Residents here will also choose to stay and work in Chicago. Other economic gains forecast by the study include more visitors from the Chicago especially during the summer because of one-way trips being reduced to just above one hour. New housing construction is expected to increase to accommodate increased demand fueled by reduced travel times. “Everything indicates that is going to be a reality. I don’t think I’ll be around in 30 years to see it to come to fruition but I certainly hope so,” Arnold said. The new rail lines close to where trains currently run on the north end of Michigan City will be elevated for safety as opposed to the current single-track level with the surface of the street. Other improvements include a new train station and parking garage in the Franklin Street area. Arnold said he had his doubts about securing dollars for such a costly project when the plans first surfaced several years ago. He said strong support at the local, state and federal levels of government made it happen. — STAN MADDUX
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RESTAURANTS CAN LIKELY OFFER INDOOR DINING FEB. 1
n Wednesday, Jan. together to protect our families, numbers. We need to remain 13, the Michigan frontline workers and small focused and continue to see Department of business owners are working. declines in hospitalizations and Health and Human While there has been a slight to bring case rates and percent Services (MDHHS) positivity down by doing what we uptick in our percent positivity updated its epidemic order to know works.” rate, our cases per million have allow re-opening of additional Indoor residential gatherings plateaued and more hospital activities where Michiganders remain limited to 10 people beds are becoming available. can remain masked and socially and two households. MDHHS Today, we are confident that distanced, as this has been continues to urge families to MDHHS can lift some of the scientifically shown to slow the avoid indoor gatherings or to protocols that were previously virus. This includes pick a single other indoor group exercise household to interact and non-contact with consistent with sports. guidance already The new order went released by the into effect Saturday, department. Jan. 16, and will last until Sunday, Jan. 31. s before, The epidemic employees s w order continues to who temporarily pause work in f indoor dining in bars jobs that n and restaurants, but cannot be performed F they can continue from home can Stray Dog Bar and Grill continues its carry-out r service on a recent Monday night to offer outdoor continue to go to dining, carry-out and work, while employeesN delivery. The working who can work from a plan is to open indoor dining home should continue to do so. u in place,” said Gov. Gretchen with mitigation measures, Individualized activities with $ Whitmer. capacity limits and a curfew distancing and face masks are “We are reopening cautiously Feb. 1, but the ultimate decision still allowed: retail shopping; because caution is working to depends on data continuing to public transit; restaurant save lives. The new order allows stabilize. Additional details on takeout; and personal-care group exercise and non-contact the reopening pathway were services such as haircuts, by sports, always with masks and expected this week. appointment. social distancing, because in the Information around this Indoor group fitness classes winter it’s not as easy to get out are also now allowed, as are nonand exercise and physical activity outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is contact sports. is important for physical and available at www.Michigan. Colleges and universities mental health,” said MDHHS were allowed to have students Director Robert Gordon. “We are gov/Coronavirus and www. CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To learn return to campus for the winter glad that we made it through the more about the COVID-19 semester and restart in-person holidays without a big increase vaccine, visit www.Michigan. courses Jan. 18. in numbers, but there are also gov/COVIDVaccine. “The efforts we have made worrying signs in the new
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
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Plan for lakefront condos moving forward
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BY STAN MADDUX
lans for lakefront condominiums are moving forward in Michigan City. A six-story structure containing 55 units would go up on the site of a former Amtrak train station north of U.S 12 just west of Franklin Street. Ernest Rosato, Jr., representing the developer, 100 North Washington, LLC, said all of the mostly two bedroom units costing $400,000 to $450,000 apiece would
have views of Lake Michigan through “floor to ceiling windows.” Rosato estimated the asking price for each of the three bedroom units at $500,000 to $550,000. The units would be above the main level used for retail, a restaurant and parking. Rosato asked the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission to help fund the $20 million project with tax increment financing dollars. The money would come from
property tax revenue generated by an increase in the assessed value of the slightly more than one acre parcel. TIF funds and revenue from the developer would go toward a 25-year financing of the project but the only the developer would be responsible for making the payments, said RDC Attorney Alan Sirinek. “There’s absolutely no risk to the city,” he said. Sirinek said as much as 100% of the TIF dollars could be applied toward the financing.
A lesser percentage would mean the balance of the TIF money being set aside and used for other projects within the north end TIF district. There was some disagreement over how much to help financially but the redevelopment commission expressed a liking for the project. MCRC member Chris Chatfield said the project fits the type of redevelopment that has been occurring on the north end for the past
several years and TIF revenue is an investment to further the momentum. “The outlook and trajectory of Michigan City is changing. The ability for us to have some medium to high levels of housing opportunities is important. This offers a great amenity to what’s happening downtown,” he said. Rosato said it would take 18 months to build the facility once financing and other requirements for construction are obtained.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
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he search for a city manager has begun in New Buffalo as the City Council voted to begin an inhouse screening process at their Tuesday, Jan. 19, meeting. Interim city manager Rich Killips presented the council with three options for how to conduct the search for candidates. The first two involved contracting with a professional organization to advertise and screen candidates. Killips said he reached out to the Michigan Municipal League, which advised him they do not provide such services. He found an Illinois-based company called GovHR USA that provides a range of searches to find candidates, including a limited search service for $8500. Killips said the city employees could conduct an in-house search at an estimated cost of $3000, mainly from advertising, but he felt it would be time-consuming. “It could be done, but it would be a challenge,” Killips told the council. Councilmember Brian Flanagan voiced concern that an outside company would not effectively represent the city’s needs. Mark Robertson said the city had contracted with a similar company during a previous city manager search and he felt they had not gotten much from the search, which resulted in only three final candidates. Killips said there had been difficulty finding quality candidates in previous searches but he felt there would be better results this time around. After discussion, the council voted to handle the search in-house, with Flanagan
New Buffalo City Council to conduct in-house search for new city manager BY THERESE DONNELLY
and Robertson serving as a upgrading parks rather than committee. The city will begin acquiring land. advertising through the MML Later in the meeting, the and other sources. council approved a proposal for Mike Huber of engineering professional services to repair firm Abonmarche gave the fire damage - including the council an update destruction of the on the waterfront men’s restroom Interim city master plan, and smoke damage manager Rich stating that throughout the Killips presented despite the project building- to the the council with being sidetracked transient marina. three options for due to Covid-19 Killips explained how to conduct restrictions and the majority of the the search for localized flooding, costs will be paid by candidates. The he expects to the city’s insurance; first two involved have a full plan however, waiting contracting with to present at for a settlement a professional the February will push work into organization council meeting. the boating season, to advertise Mayor John when the marina and screen Humphrey said is most heavily candidates. the plans are “a used. Flanagan Killips said he conglomeration of said during his reached out to features” residents time on the Harbor the Michigan requested during Commission, there Municipal earlier public had been discussion League, which meetings. Huber of extending the advised him they noted that key building, and do not provide areas of the plan asked if it would be such services. include addressing feasible to include He found an the floodwall area that in the current Illinois-based and mitigating work. Humphrey company called flood damage. said that would GovHR USA that Killips noted the extend the scope of provides a range waterfront master the work and likely of searches to plan will allow leave the building find candidates, the city to qualify unusable during including a for certain grants. the busy season. limited search Abonmarche VP McGhee added that service for Tony McGhee said engineers can create $8500. Killips existing grants plans for future said the city are not expected extensions. employees could to be affected by Gabridge and conduct an inadministration Company PC will house search at changes and more remain the city’s an estimated cost funds are expected auditors under a of $3000, mainly as new distribution renewed threefrom advertising, guidelines will year contract for but he felt it allocate more $14,600 per year. would be timemoney towards City treasurer consuming.
Kate Vyskocil said Gabridge and Company has been very responsive and good to work with. She said previous firms the city had contracted charged more and were less helpful. The Water Department received approval for two improvement projects. Water Superintendent Ken Anderson explained to the council that a 300,000-gallon water tank is due for a paint job under industry standards. He said they had received eight “very competitive bids,” with the lowest coming from L&T Painting for $151,800, which is under the amount budgeted for the work. The council approved the bid. Anderson said painting will likely begin in April and be completed by Memorial Day weekend.
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dditionally, Anderson reported a control panel for the rapid sand filters and the water plant has failed. While work can be done through a remote panel elsewhere in the building, the main panel needs to be repaired for $6954. The council approved the repair. The city will continue to split health insurance costs 80-20 with city employees after the council passed Resolution 21.01. Flanagan requested the council draft a letter to Victor Ciardellia, owner of a large piece of undeveloped land in the downtown, to ask what his plans are. Flanagan said he did not want the city to get into a legal fight over the property, but said he felt there were safety issues. He also pointed out the city has undergone an extensive
beautification project in the downtown but the Ciardelli lot stands out. The council agreed to write a letter. Killips reported the city has reached a settlement with the Edwards residence at 905 W. Michigan to address flooding of the private drain system. Killips said an improperly placed city storm drain emptied into the residence’s drain and a recent failure had caused flood damage to the property. An insurance settlement will hold the city harmless and allow it to keep the drain in place while repairs are made. Humphrey said it seemed likely this problem may occur in other locations and asked Abonmarche to identify and repair any problems during upcoming road improvements. The council reappointed all three members of the Board of Review: Jack Kennedy, Vanessa Thun and Juli Westergren. The board meets every March and December. The council thanked the 5:01 Club, Neighbor by Neighbor, Harbor Country Emergency Food Pantry and several anonymous donors that helped pay water bills for city residents in need. Prior to adjourning the meeting, Humphrey said the moratorium on short-term rentals was extended while the city continues to research ordinances and a permit system. He said unpermitted rentals make it difficult to determine the impact rentals have on city resources. He added the city has “no obligation” to protect property owners’ investments and people who buy property must follow laws and ordinances.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
SPORTS From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO
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ot much is happening on the baseball front, except the White Sox continue to gather great players, and the Cubs continue to try to unload their great players. Last week the Sox added one of the best relief pitchers in baseball, Liam Hendriks, and the Cubs continue to attempt to trade Wilson Contreras and Kris Bryant. The hockey season looks to be a long one for the Blackhawks, losers of their first three. Missing this year are retired goalkeeper Corey Crawford, and injured or ill Johnathan Toews, Kirby Dach, and Alexander Nylander. The Bulls seem to be improving under new coach Billy Donovan, and could possibly make a run for the playoffs even though they started the season with five wins against eight losses. Donovan appears to be a big upgrade over last year’s coach Jim Boylen. Because no sports story tickled my fancy this week, I decided to turn to my second love, music. When I was a young boy, I used to smuggle my portable radio into my bed late at night. There I discovered radio station WVON, and my love of music began. I remember listening to Herb Kent, the “cool gent” play songs by Ray Charles, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, and the Temptations. By the time I went to college, my tastes had changed a little. Bob Dylan and other folk singers and folk groups shared my affection with the soul music I enjoyed so much. The Beatles and The Rolling Stones were everywhere while I was in college, and I enjoyed their music quite a bit, so my
musical pallet grew. Aretha Franklin was scheduled to make an appearance at my school, and I had to get tickets. Back in those days, you couldn’t go online to get tickets because there was no online. The only way to get tickets was at the box office, so my friend and I went to the arena the morning before the tickets were to go on sale, and stayed in line for about 24 hours to get great seats. Unfortunately, Aretha got sick and didn’t show up, so we went back home and listened to her albums. Unfortunately ,I didn’t hear about Woodstock until it was happening, so I missed that. Ever since, I’ve had a lot better luck in seeing live music. From small clubs to large arenas, few things make me happier than seeing a good concert. I love Spotify, both listening to almost any song you can think of and listening to the story behind the music on their podcasts. Music can make you happy or sad. Music can make you remember old friends, special occasions, and different times of your life. While we all were confined to our homes for much of last year, music helped us weather the storm, and our imaginations allowed us to escape. Give a listen to a favorite song and let it take you to a different time and place and let your imagination run wild. None other than Dick Clark said, “Music is the soundtrack of your life.” Be silly, be honest, be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.
I always teach myself calm and visualization. — Conor McGregor
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Door opens for high school basketball season
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BY STAN MADDUX
igh school basketball practice has begun in Michigan, with hopes for a season beginning Feb. 1. The long wait caused by an upsurge in coronavirus cases has been especially frustrating, perhaps, for players in New Buffalo and other places close to the Indiana border. Indiana chose to go ahead with its season from the very beginning. “When you look across the hallway and somebody is doing something that you can’t do on your side of the hallway and you don’t see the conditions being any different it gets frustrating. I think that’s kind of where we’re at,” said Matt Johnson, athletic director at New Buffalo High School. The Michigan High School Athletic Association allowed winter sports to begin practicing Jan. 16. Non-contact sports can engage in competition Jan. 21. Contact sports like boys and girls’ basketball cannot participate in games until Feb. 1. Johnson said he hopes the season begins Feb. 1 but several previous deadlines for winter sports in Michigan were pushed back due to the lingering COVID-19 upsurge. In loosening some of her
stay-at-home restrictions, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said there was a drop in the number of cases, hospitalizations and positivity rates. That has created optimism the season will go on now as scheduled. Practices for girls’ and boys’ basketball are limited to noncontact activities, with the focus being on things like fundamentals and conditioning. “You can’t work on your man to man defense. You can’t work on your box out rebounding, pick and rolls. Things like that,” Johnson said. MHSAA also revealed post regular season tournaments in winter sports like basketball will conclude later than normal to make up for some of the lost regular season games. The post season tournament schedule is expected to be released by MHSAA in the coming days. Johnson also questioned why there was such a delay to the winter sports season and wished those decisions were made at more of a local level. “I think we’ve proven that we can participate in athletics and doing it in a safe manner by what we did in the fall. I just don’t know the rationale by not allowing our kids to participate,” he said.
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‘STUFFED ANIMAL SLEEPOVER’ WITH MR. WARREN AT THE THREE OAKS PUBLIC LIBRARY
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ave you ever wondered what happens at the library when it’s closed? The Three Oaks Public Library mascot, Mr. Warren, the Build-a-Bear mustang, will share the library’s secret world with stuffed animal friends at the Stuffed Animal Sleepover. Children up to age 11 are invited to drop off a stuffed friend anytime between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12. When children drop off their friend, they will make a name tag for them and take home an activity for themselves. Children’s stuffed friends will spend the night in the library – reading books, playing games,
sharing snacks, and making new friends with the other stuffed animals. The next day, Saturday, Feb. 13, children will come back to the library to pick up their stuffed friend between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be all set to go home with children and share their adventures. Masks are required for everyone entering the library, so children should be sure their stuffed friend is “masked up!” Only one friend per child can attend. Space is limited, so call 7565621 to register. — STAFF REPORTS
Faith Kittleson is crowned Miss Blossomtime 2020 at the pageant held last fall
Jeremiah Sterling is corwned Mr. Blossomtime 2020 at the pageant held last fall
Blossomtime Festival extends pageant season for 2021
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he Blossomtime Festival Board of Directors is excited to announce the kick off of its 2021 community pageants. Safety for the youth of their communities and of their volunteers is the biggest concern of members of the board of directors going into 2021. The Festival has decided to extend its 2021 pageant season, giving each community more time to plan their pageant in order to comply with CDC guidelines. The standard pageant season runs from Oct. 1 through Jan. 30, but with most facilities closed and following CDC guidelines, Blossomtime is hoping that extending the pageant season will allow communities more opportunities. This year, the board has decided to run community pageants from January 2021 to May 2021. Although 2021 will still look different from years past, board members are confident that the Blossomtime experience will be memorable. Board members are getting excited as they hear from the communities about their creative plans for the upcoming pageant season. Those who are interested in going out for their local community pageant
should contact the community chairperson. Those who need more information on who the community chairperson is/contact information should email the Blossomtime office at office@blossomtimefestival.org. The Blossomtime Festival is the oldest, largest, multi-community Festival in Michigan, celebrating 115 years this year. The goal of the Festival is to provide young adults in Southwest Michigan with mentoring opportunities, to learn about the area’s rich agricultural history and to assist in making their educational dreams come true by providing scholarships. Each year the Blossomtime Festival crowns a queen and king to celebrate the coming of spring for the area’s rich agricultural region. The first Miss Blossomtime, Catherine Burrell from the community of Benton Harbor, was crowned in 1924 and the first Mr. Blossomtime, Jake Belter from the community of Stevensville, was crowned in 1997. The 88th and current Miss Blossomtime is Faith Kittleson from the community of Berrien Springs and the 24th and current Mr. Blossomtime is Jeremiah Sterling from the community of Benton Harbor. — STAFF REPORTS
The soul and its language (reasoning) are immortal, infinity. — Dino
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New Buffalo Girl Scout troops kick off cookie season
brand-new year wouldn’t be complete without the temptation to buy Girl Scout cookies looming in the not-sofar-off distance. Members of Troop 00344 in New Buffalo had parked themselves in the parking lot of Barney’s Market in New Buffalo last Friday afternoon, already embarking on another cookieselling season. Jen Stocks, who serves as troop leader with Monica Tannehill, said that Barney’s was allowing one girl at a time to sell cookies indoors; however, outdoors seemed to be the way to go. “It’s safer for everybody that way,” she said. This year, a new cookie is making its debut in the cookie lineup: Toast—Yay! cookies. “It’s supposed to taste like French toast – and I think it actually does,” said troop member Keegan StocksMcElligot. Shoppers can get their cookie fix again this weekend. Stocks said the troop will be selling cookies again this Friday afternoon and on Saturday and Sunday and probably on
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Haberichter. Stocks said that the troop Superbowl weekend. The cookie sales will help makes 65 cents off each box Due to the pandemic, Stocksthe troop reach their goal of of cookies. While the troop McElligot said that the troop has put away two-thirds of the has held meetings outside when being able to travel to Hawaii this summer – “finger crossed”, funds of the last couple years it’s been nicer as well as on toward the Zoom, where upcoming they’ve been Hawaii trip, engaged in the rest has projects with gone to the other troops. Girl Scouts “This year Council. is more Some of the different funds also – we don’t go toward a have much to scholarship do this year,” for girls she said. who may Since it’s not be able her last year to afford (she’s an to attend ambassador, summer the highest camp at grade level in Troop 00344 co-leader Jen Stocks and Keegan Stocks-McElligott and Hannah Tannehill sell cookies outside Barney’s Soni Springs Girl Scouts), Girl Scout StocksCamp in McElligot Three Oaks, which is attended said she hasn’t been affected Stocks-McElligot said. The trip by members of Community too much by the Girl Scouts will mark their last big trip Service Unit 203, which going virtual. together as a troop. includes New Buffalo and “I’m more focused on bigger In Hawaii, troop members Michigan City troops. Funds project that don’t involve the plan on doing some type of also go toward badges troop so much,” she said. service work for a couple of and supplies as well as to Other troop members days, such as working with purchase items for the troop’s are Hannah Tannehill, a a turtle sanctuary, as well Thanksgiving food drive and senior (one level away from as participating in outdoor adopt-a-family project at ambassador) and Andie activities, like hiking.
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he troop is also preparing for a virtual World Thinking Day, which is Feb 22, this year. Throughout that whole week, troop members in Community Service Area 203 will be uploading a presentation, including directions for a craft and recipe, on a chosen country from a World Association of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides (WAGGS) region. WAGGS has five world regions: Western Hemisphere, Africa, Arab, Europe, and Asia Pacific. If there’s something Girl Scouts know how to do, though, it’s adapting to the changing times. “Got to be prepared, got to adapt,” Stocks said of the Girl Scout’s motto.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 17
New Buffalo Township Board adopts resolutions for proposed Public Safety Special Assessment District
embers of the New Buffalo Township Board adopted two resolutions with regards to the creation of a proposed Public Safety Special Assessment District 1 after a public hearing that was held during its Tuesday, Jan. 19, meeting (which was rescheduled due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day). New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that the proposed assessment would replace the township’s two public safety millages beginning next winter. Heit said that one of the reasons that the township is switching to a special assessment is that they’re not subject to the Headlee Rollback. The township used to collect 1 mill for its operating millage; however, over the 30-some year, due to the Rollback, it’s down to .38 mills. A special assessment will ensure that the township has funds to pay off the 20-year bond that was taken out for the new public safety building that’s currently being constructed on U.S. Highway 12 while still continuing its “current level of emergency service.” According to Public Safety Special Assessment Resolution One (which was adopted last month), the township “estimates that the cost will equate to an assessment of 2.1 mills per year, which is estimated to generate $1,297,954 in the first year of the District.” Resolution One also states that the township “tentatively” designates the district as “all real property parcels in the Township, except those that are exempt from the collection of taxes under the General Property Tax Act” and that it will “remain in effect for a period of 20 years.” Public Safety Special Assessment Resolution Two was with regards to the preparation of Special Assessment Roll. The third resolution
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
The New Buffalo Township Public Safety Building takes shape on U.S. Highway 12
was in regards to the “filing of the Special Assessment Roll for Special Assessment District” as well as the scheduling of another public hearing at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16. The slight increase in mills collected would be due to the fact that the township wouldn’t be receiving PILT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) money from Four Winds Casino for public safety should the assessment go into effect. Currently, Heit said that the township collects $149,000 in PILT money in addition to the funds from the millage. “We need to make up for the loss of that $149,000,” she said. The casino wouldn’t be paying less in PILT money; rather, the money it pays in lieu of taxes will be distributed over other millages for the school and township. The special assessment will pay for Medic 1 Ambulance service, the township fire department, the township’s contracted service for police coverage that’s provided by the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office and the bond. The new public safety building will house the township’s Fire Station Two and the township’s sheriff’s patrol. Rose Dudiak said that she
objected to the fact that township residents won’t have a say in the special assessment (a final decision will be made by the township board). “Usually, a special assessment is done by a group of people who want a project done and they request a special assessment…The project (the public safety building) was started before this even came up, so now you’ve got to do something,” she said.
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eit said that future board members wouldn’t have to worry about passing a millage every five years, ensuring that there’s enough funds to pay for the bond as well as to provide for the township’s current public safety services in its current manner. “Should one of them (the millages) not pass, what gets cut to make sure you pay that 20-year bond?” she said. Brian Dodge said that “greater taxes” would be in store for those with greater home values. “This is something that was sprung upon those individuals…I understand your need to cover for 20 years, but this is a significant tax increase for many of us on this call,” he said.
Ed Trainor said that 118 voters, which represents 6% of registered voters in the township, approved the second public safety millage in May 2017 (during what he referred to as an “off-period”). He said the township appeared to be attempting to “lock in” a vote of 118 voters for 20 years “so that you don’t have to go back to the electorate” to renew the public safety millages, which would be hard to renew. “It not only obligates to the tax payers of all of the township but specifically obligates Michiana and Grand Beach residents, who happen to have their own police departments… It obligates them to pay into a police force that is probably about 95% redundant to them,” Trainor said. Heit said that Grand Beach and Michiana benefit from the township’s ambulance and police and fire protection. The sheriff’s car will be going out of the substation at the new public safety building, which will be located by Grand Beach and Michiana. Board members approved the Poverty Exemption Income Guidelines and Asset Level Test. A resolution to set alternate dates for the Board of Review for July and December 2021 was adopted. A resolution authorizing local residents to protest in writing to the Board of Review (due to COVID-19) was adopted. Board members accepted Payment Applications #1 and #2 for Roggow Construction Company for the Union Pier trailhead project of $10,975.50 and $45,949.50, which is New Buffalo Township’s half. Heit said that the project is being paid for with a grant from The Pokagon Fund and that Chikaming Township is paying the other half. A second payment for the new public safety building in the amount of $723,928.62 was approved.
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18 THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
OBITUARIES
Farrell Ray Kirk
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1942-2021
arrell Ray Kirk, 78, of Three Oaks, died peacefully Monday, January 18, 2021, after a long illness. He passed away in his home, surrounded by his family. He was born December 19, 1942 in Sesser, Illinois, the fifth child born to Alvis and Grace Kirk. He married Beverly Jo Chesnut September 14, 1963 in Buchanan, Michigan. Farrell’s passions were family, gardening, tractor pulls, antique tractors and snowmobiling. He supported his kids and grandkids while exhibiting at the Berrien County Youth Fair for over fifty years. He has had a number of special pets over the years, most recently Walter, the goose. Farrell was a hard worker. He started with farming. After several years with Clark Equipment, he started his fifty-year trucking career, which included owning his own fleet and retiring after twenty-nine years
with Linde. He was very proud of his three million plus miles logged as a safe driver. He was a member of Galien United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the Loyal Order of Moose. Farrell will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived byhis beloved wife Beverly Kirk of Three Oaks; his children; Tammy (Ron Greulich) Koziel, Jamie (Woody White) Jenkins, both of Niles, Tom (Loneta) Kirk of Galien; seven grandchildren, Shane (Gretchen), Kelsey, Madison, Randy (Ashley), Ryan, Sebastian, Taylor; eight great grandchildren, Carson, Leland, Kora, Ambree, Autumn, Cameron, Bristol, Ryder; sisters, Violet Zebell of Goshen, Janice (Everett) Stolte of Irving, Illinois, Maxine Skala of Three Oaks, Linda (Brian) Habel of Sawyer, Judi Smith of Berrien Springs; sisterin-law, Nancy Kirk of Bridgman, Debbie Kirk of Zeigler, Illinois, Dianne Kirk of Three Oaks; brotherin- law, Ron Bond of New Buffalo; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Randy Ray Kirk; his parents; one sister, Betty Bond; four brothers, Carrol Kirk, Jake Kirk, Max Kirk, Billy Kirk. Family and friends gathered Wednesday, January 20, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and Thursday, January 21, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 12 noon in Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks.
New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —
Farrell will be laid to rest in Galien Township Cemetery. The family prefers contributions in Farrell’s memory to Galien United Methodist Church, 208 North Cleveland Avenue, Galien, Michigan 49113, Berrien County Youth Fair Exhibitor Premiums, 9122 US Highway 31, Berrien Springs, Michigan 49103, or Caring Circle Hospice, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan, 49085. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online at www.wagnercares.com.
Marjorie Louise Royce
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1922-2021
arjorie Louise Royce died of natural causes in Michiana, Michigan on January 14, 2021 with her son Bob and niece Laura Cole at her side. Born in Chicago, Illinois on February 19, 1922, Marjorie died just short of her 99th birthday. She followed her mother Rita as clerk and treasurer for the Village of Michiana. Then she worked for stretches of many years in deputy positions at New Buffalo Township, Michiana, and Grand Beach until the age of 95 in 2017. She married Robert Fredrick Royce
having followed him to Ann Arbor where her sister was living. After Robert graduated from the University of Michigan in 1945, they were married and celebrated more than 50 anniversaries before his death in 1999. She and Robert had two children daughter Robin Louise Royce Pszczola and son Robert Paul Royce. Robin died in 2016. Marjorie is survived by her son, who lives in Michiana, and her son-in-law John Pszczola who lives in Chicago. She was the middle of five siblings born to LeRoy and Rita Cole, all who preceded her in death. Marjorie was kind, generous, and forever keeping herself busy with knitting, cross stitching, cooking, baking cookies, and a long list of other activities. She celebrated the births of babies to family and friends with cross stitched samplers. Marjorie also honored family with cross-stitched Scrabble patterns of their names. All her creations were made with a perfectionist’s attention to detail. Her family and friends will continue to be warmed by hand knit sweaters, afghans, baby blankets and her memory. In lieu of flowers, you may choose to make a donation to Shriner’s Hospital, Doctors Without Borders, or UNICEF. If you wish to leave the family a message of condolence you may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Sommerfeld Chapel – 15 N. Barton St., New Buffalo, MI.
DEATH NOTICES
THREE OAKS – Rebecca Schmidt, 61, of Buchanan, died Monday, January 18, 2021. Arrangements are pending at Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 19
HOR0SCOPE JANUARY 21-27, 2021
AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19
You will be blessed with an unusual business perspective and will get ahead by bucking the current business trends. This is the time to experiment with a different operating system or upgrade a current program. Deviations from the norm, have the ability to be very lucrative in the future.
LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22
You will likely encounter some unusual push back from the men in your life. Be aware that with the current planetary line up you are prone to respond more rebelliously, which may not be in your best interest. Be patient. Prepare your refutations and wait for the right time to engage.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21
TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20
Before you get involved in any crazy deals or unusual projects, experiment with things mentally. Embrace the mad scientist approach but keep things under wraps in the lab, this is not the time to go public. When working with others, approach topics as if you were in a study group.
There is a very determined willful side to the vibe coming your way, this week. Use this energy to it’s fullest by dealing with personal and business matters head on. Take more control over where you want your career and public life to go. Actively create your reputation by doing the right thing.
VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22
There is an unorthodox teaching or a counter intuitive approach that you will be hearing about this week, which could really shift your perspective. Rather than making drastic changes or jumping to conclusions. Take some time to investigate and study it before implementing changes.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19
GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21
You will be sailing into unchartered waters this week and you would be wise to make that move into the unknown, even if it’s way outside of your comfort zone. Let go of the way you had envisioned outcomes. Make decisions that are based in altruism and self-sacrificing, rather than self-sabotaging.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The stars are beaming down an energy that is very transformative and will shine a light on areas of your life that you may have cut off or abandoned. Use this energy to boldly create your life, even if it pushes against the status quo. You can either be a drama queen or an eccentric artist.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18
CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22
SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21
There is a tendency for you to get caught in your head this week and feel like a loner but the truth is this is a time for sharing. Let yourself become part of the collective. That doesn’t mean surrendering your individuality but letting your uniqueness be an integral part of larger tapestry.
Be aware that the cosmic energy you are receiving will awaken your inner escape artist and may drive you to seek that which is unavailable or unattainable. Familial or long-term relationships can make you feel tied down now and you might act aloof to counter intimacy issues.
The vibe coming your way this week will aid you in embracing your free spirit and celebrating your ability to create something wonderful out of seemingly mixed-up parts. Direct your energy into artful selfexpression, rather than self-destructive experimentation.
The stellar vibe is radiating directly to your sign and you will be required to operate front and center. The spotlight can be a lonely place, that can make you feel separate and apart from the group. Luckily, you understand going out alone in order to benefit the group.
PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20
There is a lot stirring behind the scenes and conversations or presentations will not go as planned. The people you normally engage with will either be unavailable, requiring you to make some lightening flash changes or discussions will go way off topic. Eccentricities explode.
In the upper peninsula, you can mistake a tree for a bear but you can’t mistake a bear for a tree. — Dino
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20 THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021
by invitation only
MAYBE IT’S TIME TO ‘GROW UP’ BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER
B
eing the news-anxious person that I am, I watched every scrap of the news events surrounding the scene at our Capitol a couple weeks ago. I, of course, was stunned. The trashing of the doors and windows, the disregard for the sanctity of our governing body, the terrified legislators huddling on the floor with gas masks...all taking place in the epicenter of our country’s Capitol! That scene illustrated the fragility for the sanctity of our citizenship as never before, or in a way I hadn’t even thought about. It is not of my nature to cross over to political issues in this column. It’s not that I have become hysterical over a certain disagreement between political parties. I do not second guess the strength of some politicians, who have supported this battle over the validity of the election that is not an issue with me. But, attacking the Capitol is another matter. I do not care to second guess the matter with the gang’s denouncement of some of the country’s election validity. It’s just not my manner or nature to jump into the fray. In fact, I have a rule in my house when entertaining that: There will be no political or religious issues discussed. I take pride in the fact that I maintain these social rules that I feel necessary - especially now, in these troubled times. Nonetheless, it is not in my mind to condone the behavior or the shattering of the architecture or sanctity of this union. That, too, privately, is not me. Even though I knowingly have close friends who clearly are of a contrary mindset on political issues, I am appalled that they may still be in that offending position. I admit, I have heretofore taken the avenue of dodging unsavory issues by saying “what will be, will be.” Now, I feel, is not the time for dithering over philosophies or beliefs. Now is the time for all of us in this great country to assess the true values that we may hold and decide if we are individuals with clear beliefs in our constitutional values and electoral system. Are we truly committed to defending and supporting our values and trust? Or would it be better to do as I have done with my previous
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE
mindset and fall into my generic “Caspar Milquetoast” way for brushing off the offensive remarks from people? Now, when people and friends are knocking the principles that I find dear, it’s not just a matter of casualness in the conversation. I cannot toss off what the constitutional American citizen is saying about principles I hold so dear. The election is over. The divisiveness must stop when it employs the abandonment of civilities toward one another. It is not a matter of decisions that divides us: It’s a matter of decency toward one another and of being humans with respect for one another. It is a matter of having respect for the country we live in and a country that aspires ideally. Some would charge that this is a matter of Christian principles and beliefs, or a lack thereof. I believe that that charge may hold some truth. We all have a higher principle that is compatible with the preaching; however, never should the twain meet. We should all hold an imperial value for every individual, with personal principles that make us responsible for our feelings and for the decision-making that supports the better side of us all.
I
t’s a time for all of us to abandon racism, abandon support for the unknown and to disapprove the complete lack of decency. It is the time we should “grow up -” to use the euphemism that my mother would employ to make her point for shaming me or someone else who was talking and acting like a nincompoop. If the need to “grow up” could only solve the problems we face today. “Grow up” is an over-simplified expression that can still find traction in assisting our solving of our political distractions in today’s scene. If we could only apply that simple expression with today’s political actors. How can you argue that, given the state of affairs today in Washington? Maybe it’s time we take stock of our situation – of all the issues across the political spectrum that are disturbing. Maybe, just maybe, it’s time for all of us including the politicos - to just “grow up!”
New Buffalo Times
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BAR SHOOTING SUSPECT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY
A
suspect in the shooting of a man in the face at a downtown LaPorte bar was arrested by police in Michigan City. Keith A. Davis, Jr., 24, of Michigan City was arraigned Friday, Jan. 15, in LaPorte Circuit Court on level 1 felony attempted murder and level 3 felony aggravated battery. He was being held in the LaPorte County Jail on $50,000 bond. Davis was grabbed by the Fugitive Apprehension Street Team consisting of members from Michigan City Police, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Marshal’s Office. LaPorte Police Detective Sgt. Jim Ferguson credited “tireless work” for the capture happening in a “timely and safe manner.” According to police, the evidence indicates Davis and Jeremy Simmons were arguing early Saturday outside Lucky Bar at 1004 Lincolnway. Simmons appeared to be getting ready to leave when Davis, who was just 6 feet away, shot him in the face, police said. Police said Simmons was at an Indianapolis hospital with a bullet lodged in his neck. Davis was identified as the shooter by several witnesses, including one describing him as a source of disruption in other bars in the city, police said. LaPorte mayor Tom Dermody said the city is looking into the possibility of shutting down the bar, which has a history of violence. Dermody said the Indiana Alcohol & Tobacco Commission will be contacted for help in controlling behavior at both establishments, where violent acts have occurred in the past. “With the standard we’re setting, there’s no reason to have establishments that you can’t go in and have a nice time with family, friends and leave without being concerned about this type of violence,” Dermody said. Former LaPorte High School football star Marcus Phelps, for example, was fatally stabbed outside the establishment in 2014. Justin Lower, who fled on a moped, is serving a 60-year prison sentence for the death and another 12 years for being a habitual offender. — STAN MADDUX
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 21
Bill aims to prevent sudden death in Hoosier student athlete
S
BY STAN MADDUX
everal years after the sudden cardiac death of her son, a LaPorte woman is playing a role in trying to keep other student athletes statewide from being dealt the same fate. Legislation aimed at reaching students unaware something major is wrong with their hearts was submitted last Wednesday in the Indiana House. Julie West, whose son, Jake, died at football practice, helped District 20 State Representative Jim Pressel of Rolling Prairie draft the bill. .The measure orders a student athlete removed from practice or competition if exhibiting a symptom of sudden cardiac arrest as determined by a coach, game official or others like a licensed physician. The student would not be able to rejoin the team unless evaluated and given medical clearance. The legislation also mandates a coach and other extracurricular activity leaders complete a sudden cardiac arrest training course and not be held liable for life saving efforts unless gross negligence or misconduct were involved. Schools would be required to give information to parents about the nature and warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest, electrocardiogram testing and how to request a heart screening Pressel said the idea for the legislation
resulted from his conversations with West about her mission of using Jake’s death to save lives. “In partnership with her, we thought it would be a good idea to address the problem and bring more awareness to it.” he said. Jake West collapsed during practice in September of 2013. The LaPorte High School senior died from arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, an often undetected genetic condition that causes the walls of the heart to thicken. Eventually, the heart is unable to pump blood. After a doctor recommended the whole family be tested her then 20-year-old daughter, Courtney, was found on a similar path as her younger brother. West helped present the bill at the statehouse. She told lawmakers her daughter was also a student athlete unaware she was living with sort of a ticking time bomb. “Now, she’s living with a defibrillator implanted after we found out that she, too, had an undiagnosed heart condition,” she said. Ever since, West has led fundraising efforts to provide free heart screenings for middle school and high school students in LaPorte and the surrounding area.
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Sunday 10:15 am Find Us On or search: Calvary Chapel New Buffalo Visit calvarychapelnb.org for current updates, weekly bulletin & bible study information.
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