February 9, 2023

Page 15

Short-term rental lawsuit remains undecided PAGE 3

Attainable housing in New Buffalo addressed at joint meeting PAGES 4-5

Road maintenance millage renewal resolution adopted by Chikaming Township Board PAGE 5

New executive director Keri Haskins moving Neighbor by Neighbor forward into the future PAGE 6

Lakers show potential again in second loss to top ranked squad PAGE 7

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Bison boys defeat Covert
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Short-term rental lawsuit remains undecided

There was discussion but no decision by the New Buffalo City Council on a lawsuit over short-term rentals.

During a special city council meeting Monday, Feb. 6, council members voted to go into closed session to discuss legal strategy with their attorney in the federal case brought against the city.

City Manager Darwin Watson said no details from the closed talks could be shared but nothing was decided on the matter.

Watson said both sides are engaged in standard talks to try and settle the matter out of court to avoid having to go to trial.

“We got one more round to go on some mediation and negotiation,” he said.

Watson said there are 27 plaintiffs and 17 properties represented in the lawsuit.

The legal action was taken after the plaintiffs were unable to obtain a permit to operate their homes as short-term rentals.

A moratorium on short-term rentals in New Buffalo was imposed in 2020 to give city officials time to draft new rules governing STRs.

The moratorium was lifted in November 2021 after a considerable number of teeth added to the regulations was adopted by the city council.

Existing short-term rentals were allowed to continue but a ban was imposed on additional ones in all three of the areas designated as residential districts.

The council met behind closed doors

for about 30 minutes before resuming what turned out to be a brief public session.

The council scheduled public hearings on requests to vacate municipal right of way at two separate locations.

A portion of one right of way would be vacated to allow water and sewer service to be extended to an undeveloped residential lot at 315 S. Clinton Street.

Watson said the property owners want the ground to have access to utilities because they plan on putting the property up for sale.

“It makes it more marketable,” he said.

Municipal right of way vacation is also being sought on S. Kenzie Street between E. Detroit Street and E. Clay Street near the high school.

Currently, Watson said the right of way extends into the west end of the track circling the football field.

If approved, the school district would be able to access the ground to cut the trees and trim the branches that could potentially fall and damage the rubber surface of the track.

Watson said vacating that right of way would also open the door to somehow connecting aesthetically the athletic facilities to the new pickle ball courts and other recreational amenities going in across the street.

The public hearings will be held during the regularly scheduled city council meeting Feb. 21.

HIKERS TO WANDER OFF THE TRAILS ON FEB. EXCURSION

The Harbor Country Hikers will learn about bushwhackingor off-trail hiking - from the group’s president, Pat Fisher, on its Saturday, Feb. 18 hike at 2 p.m. at the New Buffalo Area Schools Nature Trails.

Fisher will show how, while mapping unmarked trails or planning new ones, he must explore without the aid of blazes, worn paths or a trail map. He will walk the group through the planning stages and reveal his methodology to make hiking off the beaten path a pleasant experience.

The Feb. 18 hike will be two hikes - an easy one-mile hike or a longer and more rugged three-mile trek. Those who attend are advised to dress in layers, wear a warm cap and sturdy shoes or boots and bring plenty of water. Depending on the weather, there may be some muddy or icy areas along the trail. Although membership is preferred, all are welcome to join this hike.

The Hikers offers an all-terrain rollator, which is a wheeled walker with oversized tires for unpaved surfaces, on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing harborcountryhikers@gmail.com.

For directions to the Nature Trails and other details about this hike and the Harbor Country Hikers in general, visit harborcountryhikers. com or go to the group’s Facebook page, Harbor Country Hikers.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 3
In
Fashion, it’s always been what’s inside. — Dino N. Fatouros

Local Government Meetings

New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO

JOHN HUMPHREY, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL

MARK ROBERTSON, ROGER LIJESKI, JOHN HUMPHREY, BRIAN FLANAGAN, VANCE PRICE

City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS

Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD

PETE RAHM, MICHELLE HEIT, JUDY H. ZABICKI, PATTY IAZZETTO, JACK ROGERS

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

NEW BUFFALO AREA RECREATIONAL AUTHORITY

Meets at 10AM on the 2nd Wednesday of every other month at New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Highway New Buffalo

NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD

PAUL KELLER, LISA WERNER, JOHN HASKINS, DENISE CHURCHILL, BRADLEY BURNER, TRICIA NEWTON, VANESSA THUN

CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP

CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD

DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, BILL MARSKE

Chikaming 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

Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7PM

MARY ROBERTSON, CLERK

HARRY WALDER BLAKE O’HALLORAN, JAMES BRACEWELL, PETER DOERR, EDWARD BRANDES

MICHIANA

VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL

Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Attainable housing in New Buffalo addressed at joint meeting

Apotential development that could provide attainable housing in the area was presented to members of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education, New Buffalo City Council and New Buffalo Township Board in the New Buffalo Performing Arts Center Thursday, Feb. 2.

New Buffalo Area Schools Interim Superintendent Dr. Michael Lindley presented on some recent bills that were passed by the Michigan State Legislature in December that “allows for some better community participation in working together to resolve the attainable housing issues:” Senate Bills 362, 364, 422 and 432.

He drew attention to Senate Bill 362, “Attainable Housing Facilities Act,” which allows for creating an attainable housing district and for property owners there to apply for partial tax exemption on their real property taxes up to 50%.

A key component of it is that you have to set aside 30% of the units for people to make 120% or less of the countywide median income threshold, which Lindley said is now $32,000 to 33,000.

Senate Bill 422, “Residential Facilities Exemption Act,” has a tax abatement on qualified new housing developments in districts with local governments, also with the 120% threshold. Lindley said that “this is used for units with more than four units” and would apply if there’s an apartment complex in a development.

The density the property would support would need to be determined, as well as who would be the project’s partners and if the township board would be interested in giving tax abatements to attract people.

“As we make some progress, we would hopefully be able to identify if any of this is applicable to us and help us to create some attainable housing,” Lindley said.

Eric Neagu, managing principal for Antero Group, said that the project was driven by the 30-acre parcel, which students would use to continue to build houses for potential residents on for the Building and Trades program once a year, located across from the elementary school that’s owned by the school district.

The school system had run out of property to build houses on and was hoping the property would work; however, the area is predominantly wetland.

The district was able to buy the former Conway property and a couple other parcels, which provided it with enough property to “have a legitimate development,” Neagu said.

The goal is to have around 15 to 16 units reserved for students for their Building Trades program. Neagu said that the “balance of that would be developed targeting attainable housing for the workforce” in the area.

The property contains a creek as well as a trail system through it, which Neagu said they feel they can preserve a lot of and make into an amenity for those who’d live there “because the wetland area can never be developed.”

It was also noted that the utilities are already there, as the property is located across from the school.

Vita Khosti, senior planner at Antero Group, presented conceptual plans of potential housing developments. Concept One concerns R-1 low density residential,

with single family units, large lots and ensuring access to the trails not only to residents but the public.

Concept Two includes 15 single family lots, which would be used for the Building Trades program, with 30 townhomes “dotted around” and two multi-family buildings.

The concept differs from the first one in that it includes a different mix of units as well as respects the creek and wetlands, with a 25-foot riparian setback from the creek.

A public parking lot with 18 spaces is tucked in behind some of those singlefamily homes, with the access to the trails in addition to a potential environmental learning center to the north.

Neagu said that he hopes that any potential development will address the “missing middle.”

“There’s a whole style of housing –duplexes to fourplexes and beyond and these smaller apartment complexes that we call them middle housing…It’s not low-income housing, it’s not high-income housing, it’s something in the middle,” he said.

City councilmember Mark Robertson said he was concerned about the traffic volume that’s going to go down Detroit Street and residential neighborhoods “going down to that development.”

Neagu said that a formal traffic study hasn’t been done yet; however, one is required when going through the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process and that it’s also required the development has two entry points.

www.newbuffalotimes.com 4 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023
Never trust to general impressions, my boy, but concentrate yourself upon details.
— Arthur Conan Doyle

For the purpose of budgeting, Ed Gausselin, principal of Progressus Development Group, said that, without plans or any bidding, they’re estimating $200 per square foot of a construction cost all in.

A rough number of a 1,500 square foot home would be built for approximately $300,000, he said.

Having someone buying one of the homes and turning into an Airbnb or a second home is “not the target here,” Neagu said, adding that there are “ways of constraining that so that there are controls built into that limit the interest in the ability of people to do that.”

“There could be some kind of homeowners association has restrictions on it, there could be deed restrictions limiting the sale price so someone can’t buy it for $280,000 or $300,000 and flip it for $500,000,” he said.

Going forward, Gausselin said that some decisions need to be made to give he and Neagu direction, such as if there’s a preference of having

homes for sale or rental units and whether the road located there should be private or public and if it’s private, what municipal or township services that are out there with regards to maintenance.

New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that the project would probably be done as a PUD, as it would allow for smaller

lot sizes or maybe even homes that are smaller and other things that the township’s zoning ordinance wouldn’t normally allow to “make things more inexpensive.”

New Buffalo Mayor John Humphrey said affordability was an important discussion.

“You need to get the price point down to where it can attract people to be the homes that we have this shortfall in in the New Buffalo area, which is generally teachers, public safety workers, new families, people that want to come to our school system that the $400,000-500,000 home entry price is too high for them to get them into the market,” he said, and added that they could get duplexes and single-family homes “for cheaper.”

Neagu said they may need a future extended workshop to “really hammer out” the details of the project.

Road maintenance millage renewal resolution adopted by Chikaming Township Board

Members of the Chikaming Township Board adopted a resolution for a road maintenance millage renewal proposal that will go on the May 2 election ballot at a special meeting Thursday, Feb. 2.

The special meeting needed to be held because the ballot language was due to the county Feb. 7, which was two days before the board’s monthly Feb. 9 meeting.

Per the resolution, the township is asking that the millage be renewed at up to 0.9785 mills ($0.9785 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for six years, “2023 through 2028 inclusive (and will appear on the December 2023 tax bill), for purposes of continuing to provide funds for the maintenance, upkeep and construction of roads within Chikaming Township.”

The millage is estimated to raise $699,381 in the first year it’s levied.

Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said that the public has seen the results of the millage throughout its six years of existence.

“That’s why I think the public is fully aware the money has gone exactly where we said it was going to go – huge improvements in our roads,” he said, adding that he “wants to continue that.”

The millage was originally 1 mill but has been reduced due to Headlee Rollbacks.

Bunte said that the millage is still raising just under $700,000 and that the reason it’s increased is because the township’s valuation has gone up $715 million, adding that they won’t have the new valuation until after the Board of Review in March. Per the assessor, the anticipation is that “we will probably bump up a little bit more” because of the construction going on in the township.

“That, in addition to the Act 51 funds we get from the county, which average around $50,00, gives us an annual budget for that fund at about $750,000,” Bunte said.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 5
Eric Neagu speaks while Ed Gausselin looks on Members of the governing bodies discuss the potential development

New executive director Keri Haskins moving Neighbor by Neighbor forward into the future

Keri Haskins loves helping others.

Which is why when she caught wind that Neighbor by Neighbor needed a fulltime executive director after the former one, Linnea Berg, retired to keep the 501 c 3 organization moving forward into 2023 and beyond, she decided to jump onboard.

“I love their mission of helping people go from dependence to independence and that looks a little different for all people, so I just felt like my background and what I love to do really aligned well with Neighbor by Neighbor,” Haskins, who became the new executive director last month, said.

Haskins, who has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Miami University and a master’s degree in counseling from Andrews University, was a counselor at Bridgman Public Schools for almost 12 years. She’s an adjunct professor of counseling and psychology at Andrews University.

She became familiar with Neighbor by Neighbor when it started servicing up through the Bridgman area (the main service area is The Pokagon Fund area).

“One of my favorite parts of my job was helping others and helping them basically get hooked up with resources and that’s something Neighbor by Neighbor can provide as well as many different organizations too we can partner with and other people can partner with,” Haskins said.

Neighbor by Neighbor began when Linnea Berg, a retired nonprofit executive, met with Janet Cocciarelli, the former executive director of The Pokagon Fund, who shared local data that indicated that there was significant poverty in the area and a lack of resources to help them.

Berg was working as a part-time administrative assistant at the Episcopal Church of the Mediator in Harbert, whose priest, Rev. Paula Durren, was a trained

master’s level therapist and worked in the field for over 20 years. Soon, the church became the first fiduciary manager of a new program targeting southwest Berrien County low-income residents.

On July 1, 2017, Neighbor by Neighbor was born (although it didn’t have that name yet).

Megan Bolinder, the first employee, was meeting people requesting help and giving them information on how to get it when she realized that what people needed was much more extensive than contact information.

In 2020, Kohring, who was providing direct client services, became the organization’s part-time executive director.

After Durren, who now serves as co-chair of the organization’s board of directors, retired as priest from Church of the Mediator, Harbert Community Church became the fiduciary for Pokagon grants.

Haskins credits The Pokagon Fund for giving so much funding to Neighbor by Neighbor through the years. Grants have also been received from United Way and they’re applying for one through the

Berrien Community Foundation.

“We’ve had people donate, people volunteer, year-round residents, second home owners…Everyone’s been so supportive in realizing there’s a need in this area,” she said.

Berg said that watching the organization grow “from humble beginnings to a thriving nonprofit in five years is one of the most satisfying things in my long career.”

“Neighbor by Neighbor continues to be an essential contributor to the quality of life in Harbor Country, keeping people housed with the lights on and food on the table...It doesn’t get much better than that, and I am proud to retire and hand over the reins to a competent and enthusiastic leader in Keri Haskins,” she said, adding that she’ll continue to help Neighbor by Neighbor “as a volunteer in whatever capacity I can.”

Throughout the pandemic, people got back on their feet due to extra economic support from the government; then, the “bottom dropped out.”

“Inflation is almost starting and grocery prices have gone up, gas has gone up, utilities have gone up and it put people into poverty who’ve never been in poverty before,” she said.

Figuring out how she can support the organization’s staff and board of directors will help Haskins meet this challenge –and other ones – going forward.

“How do we stay healthy and keep growing - that’s kind of our goal: To make sure we that have a handle on what we’re currently doing but then where do we move into the future,” she said.

The organization was able to secure a permanent office space at 16170 Red Arrow Highway Union Pier in 2021. Throughout the pandemic (during which the organization grew from serving 150 people to 752 in 12 months), Kohring was working out of her car.

Haskins said they’re already outgrowing the space. Recently, they’ve added a social worker case manager: Jessica Kidwell-Saboski, who’s looking to grow her office more.

The office contains a food pantry cabinet, as well as has diapers. There’re also senior commodities, as Neighbor by Neighbor helps with boxes of food delivery to seniors once a month, as well as helps with holiday giving.

“We have a lot of things coming in but don’t always have the space to store it - so we’re still kind of exploring how to do that,” Haskins said.

Haskins said she’s rising to the challenge, though.

“I’m excited about our future - I’m still figuring out and learning and collaborating with others in this organization as to where that’s going to go but I feel like we definitely have room for growth…There’s just always going to be a need to help people in this area and so we want to make sure we can help meet that and provide for them,” she said.

More information on Neighbor by Neighbor can be found at www. neighborbyneighbor.org.

6 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com
Michael Howe, AmeriCorps member, Keri Haskins, Meg Smith, service coordinator and Jessica Howell-Saboski, social worker case manager

From the Bleachers

Crickets……….

The weeks before footballs championship game are famous for the lack of anything happening in any sport. The day that pitchers and catchers report to spring training is close, but still two weeks away. Obviously, no football is being played as Sunday is the big game. Hockey had its all star game and basketball is preparing for theirs. At least we had the Grammys which were extremely entertaining.

Kyrie Irving saw the gap in news and decided to demand a trade.

I think the New Jersey Nets were somewhat relieved, and traded him to the Dallas Mavericks. Kyrie is undoubtedly a great basketball player, but he has unique views about the universe that sometimes interfere with his teams chances of winning.

So anyway, with so little going on, I decided to look forward to the baseball season. Actually, as many of you know, that means I want to look forward to what the Cubs may have in store for us this season. The off season started slowly, with many stars going to other teams, but then the Cubs finally started to participate. Let’s start with the outfield.

The Cubs needed a center fielder so they went out and signed Cody Bellinger. Cody was great a few years ago, but injuries have affected his productivity the last couple of years. He’s a great fielder and base runner and if he can regain his hitting form, he could be a superstar in Chicago.

Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki are the left and right fielders, giving the Cubs an excellent outfield.

The infield has a new look too.

The biggest acquisition for the Cubs this winter was shortstop Dansby Swanson. Signing him allows the team to move Nico Hoerner to second base making the defense up the middle outstanding. Third base is probably still being manned by Patrick Wisdom unless young Christopher Morel beats him out. First base will be split between newcomer veterans Eric Hosmer and Trey Mancini with young, powerful Matt Mervis waiting in the wings.

The Cubs will miss the offensive production of Wilson Contreras, but the defense should improve. The capable tandem of Yan Gomes and Tucker Barnhart will handle the pitching staff. The starting pitchers will be Marcus Stroman, Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, Kyle Hendricks, and Drew Smyly, a nice blend of old and new and young and old. The Cubs farm system is really starting to contribute, so if anyone stumbles, a youngster will be ready to take their place.

My hope, and I believe it’s realistic, is that the Cubs will battle the Cardinals and Brewers for the Central division championship, with beating them a definite possibility. After a few down years, they’re back with the elite, at least in their division. Once you get into the playoffs, anything can happen.

In honor of Black History Month, my quote this week is from Martin Luther King Jr.: “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

Lakers show potential again in second loss to top ranked squad

The La Lumiere girls’ basketball team gave another No. 1 ranked team a run for their money in a losing effort at home.

The Lakers were defeated 55-44 by Fremd High School outside Chicago Feb. 3.

The Vikings are ranked No. 1 in Class 4A in Illinois.

La Lumiere led by McDonalds All American senior Ashlynn Shade exchanged leads with the Vikings often during the first half.

Other players for La Lumiere factored into the scoring more often than Shade who was double teamed and pressured in other ways on defense throughout the game.

Her first bucket came from a driving lay-up with about three minutes left in the first quarter.

Shade later nailed a three point shot in the second quarter to pull the Lakers to within two points.

The Vikings started the third quarter with two quick buckets to pull ahead by seven points but the Lakers quickly came back when Shade dished the ball to junior Shena Fleming for a lay-up.

Shade then sank a 10 foot jump shot after grabbing an offensive rebound to cut the lead to three points.

However, Fremd later went up by

12 points but the three point shooting of Fleming helped keep the Lakers in striking distance.

The Lakers trailed by eight points with less than two minutes to play but couldn’t get any closer.

La Lumiere (9-10) bounced back the following night defeating Joliet West on the road 59-52.

The previous week, the Lakers had a second quarter lead against South Bend Washington ranked No. 1 in Indiana and No. 7 in the nation.

The Lakers wound up losing that game by 16 points.

Head coach Matt Marvin praised the effort of his players in both games against teams with several players heading to major college basketball programs next season.

“I’m really proud of this team. They work so hard every single day. They leave nothing out there,” he said.

Shade, who transferred from Noblesville, Indiana, is committed to playing for the University of Connecticut next season.

Marvin said one of his other players, Gabi Hoover, a 6’2” senior forward, is beginning to draw some interest from collegiate programs.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 7 SPORTS

Bison boys defeat Covert

It was the boys’ basketball team from New Buffalo High School this time delivering a blowout victory.

The Bison (2-12) defeated Covert 67-35 at home Tuesday, Feb. 7.

The still winless Bulldogs trailed by just six points at halftime.

Head Coach Nate Tripp said his still learning young players seemed to respond positively to simplifying the game plan to reduce confusion on where they should be on both sides of the court.

“They don’t have to think as much. They don’t have to process as much and it helped,” he said.

Junior Andres Becerra was a major contributor early for the Bison when he picked up a loose ball for a bucket then scored three mores time from various spots on the floor in the first quarter.

Junior Elliot Bourne and freshman Sam Tripp shined in the second quarter with two buckets apiece before senior Landon Haskins

switched hands while off the floor to lay the ball in from underneath the rim.

The Bison started putting the game away shortly after halftime.

The attack on offense became even more balanced while the defense turning up the pressure forced more

turnovers leading to buckets.

Bourne drove in for lay-ups after twice stealing the ball and scored again on a pass following a steal by freshman James Shaw.

The third period ended with the Bison holding a 22 point lead after Tripp nailed

another three point shot.

Freshman Nick Haskins was behind much of the dominant play in the fourth quarter.

In sparkling fashion, Haskins drove around defenders along the baseline twice for buckets.

He later nailed a short jump shot and scored down low from a nifty pass by Shaw.

Bourne led all Bison scorers with 14 points followed by 13 points from Nick Haskins and 11 points by Tripp.

Becerra and Landon

Haskins contributed 9 and 7 points respectively.

The only other win for the Bison also came against Covert in what was a much closer game.

In their previous match on February 3, the Bison lost at Michigan Lutheran 5328.

Despite their record, Tripp said his team in a complete rebuilding year after making it to the regional championship game last season has competed better than it seems against squads mostly with bigger and more experienced players.

Tripp said the problem has been five to seven minute stretches in games when his players seem to lose focus, which has led to flurries of turnovers and buckets by the opposition.

“How do we fix those mistakes is what we’re still battling with. There’s still a lot of season left. I still believe in my guys,” he said.

8 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com
In music, Everything is important. — Dr. Dre

Making Beautiful Music: Très Belle to perform songs for sopranos in an ‘acoustic’ gem

Time might be running out on Schreiber Field

The door has cracked to what many high school baseball fans in LaPorte once thought was unthinkable. Tearing down fabled Schreiber Field has been raised as a possibility. The field is named after the late Ken Schreiber, the legendary head coach who guided the Slicers to seven state high school baseball championships from 1967 to 1992.

Schreiber was 83 when he passed away in 2017.

Not only did he coach there but he established and helped maintain the field still highly regarded throughout the region for its immaculate playing surface and other big leaguetype qualities.

There’s also a lively atmosphere there from a loyal fan base for a still very competitive program.

However, the future of Schreiber Field is uncertain because of a desire to construct a new, much larger fieldhouse for the athletic program. Currently, LaPorte School Board President Jim Arnold said there is no room for such a facility at the landlocked high school.

Also factoring into the equation is Kiwanis Field where the football team has played a short distance from the high school for well over a half century.

Arnold said Kiwanis Field is badly in need of repairs, though, and building a new football stadium elsewhere might be more cost effective than sinking a considerable amount of money into an old facility.

He said the field house could be placed where Kiwanis Field is at if the stadium was demolished.

If renovated, Arnold said he feels the only other option is tearing down Schreiber Field to make way for a new field house.

Arnold said he knows what the baseball field

and football stadium mean to the community but decisions, sometimes, have to be made on what’s best for the future.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people are still tied to the past, but it’s progress. I would consider anything for progress,” he said.

Arnold said a good location for a new Schreiber Field, Kiwanis Field or both might be at the Kesling Intermediate and Middle School campus.

Mayor Tom Dermody, a former star pitcher under Schreiber, said he would hate to see either facility vanish from the local landscape.

However, Dermody said he would support a tear down of any sort if deemed necessary for the athletic program to keep up with what’s provided to student athletes in other schools.

He said what a community offers is part of quality of life many people desire the most when choosing where to live and schools are included in those decisions.

“If our residents are telling us we need to compete with the best that includes upgrades of our infrastructure that really hasn’t been upgraded very much. Speaking athletically, not academically, it’s probably ready,”

Chip Jones, who played for Schreiber in the ’70s and broadcasts every Slicers baseball and football games on local radio station WCOE, predicted a lot of push back from the community if talk about demolishing either facility becomes more serious.

Jones said change isn’t always easy but sometimes it’s what’s best even if it means a special place like Schreiber Field, in particular, and its nostalgia disappearing.

“If they decide to do it, I probably wouldn’t like it but I would understand. It’s like everything else. Everything changes,” he said.

TTrès Belle, a trio of elite operatic sopranos, will warm up winter’s waning days in a concert of songs spanning opera, musical theater and pop at a Free Family Concert presented by the School of American Music 3 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at the Episcopal Church of the Mediator, located at 14280 Red Arrow Highway in Harbert.

Donations of pull-tab cans of soups, stews, tuna, ravioli, spaghetti or anything that is easy to heat is being requested for Neighbor by Neighbor, a not-for-profit that connects Harbor Country residents to social services.

Kimberly Jones, Marisa Buchheit, and Kirsten Leslie are the three sopranos behind Très Belle, a distinctive ensemble of complementary voices and styles showcased through unpredictable arrangements and fresh interpretations of their repertoire. Established in 2014, the group has performed in settings ranging from a Chicago Bulls basketball game to the Chicago Cultural Center to the Ravinia Music Festival.

“The grace and beauty of these performers will be amplified by the concert’s setting,” said Donna M. Mitchell, executive director of

the School of American Music. “The Church of the Mediator is an acoustic gem, perfect for the caliber of these classically trained, independently successful, but wholly collaborative singers. The Très Belle production promises to be a very special show.”

The program for the afternoon will include “Summertime,” “My Funny Valentine,” “I Could Have Danced all Night,” “Can’t Help Loving That Man,” “O Mio Babbino” and a “West Side Story” medley. The ensemble will be accompanied by pianist Paul Dykstra, and Leila Bowie will substitute for Marisa Buchheit. The concert is free, but registration is requested. Please visit SchoolofAmericanMusic.com to sign up.

The SAM Family Concert Series is made possible by a grant from the Pokagon Fund, and donations to the School of American Music. Visit SchoolofAmericanMusic.com for more information or to donate to the Future Fund, an endowment campaign to guarantee SAM’s financial future. Every dollar donated to the Fund is matched by the Michiana Arts Foundation. SAM is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 9

‘Freezing for a reason’ at Southwest Michigan Polar Plunge 2023

Each year, the Southwest Michigan Polar Plunge – where brave plungers from across the region revel in “freezing for a reason” – grows by leaps and bounds.

This year, Brock Havens from The Plan B Morning Show on Rock 107 WRX, said, proved to be the most successful one.

“This is the biggest polar plunge southwest Michigan has seen yet,” Havens, who was emceeing the festivities at Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville Saturday, Feb. 4, with Jonny Reinhardt from The Morning Show on News/ Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM, said.

The goal for the Southwest Michigan Polar Plunge was to raise $100,00 (up from last year’s goal of $86,000).

It was announced on Watermark’s Facebook Monday, Feb. 6, that more than $125,000 had been raised.

The fact that there were more than 300 plungers this year also helped.

According to Special Olympics Michigan’s website, the Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan, with all funds being raised by plungers to help Special Olympics

Michigan provide yearround sports training and athletic competition for nearly 23,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in Michigan.

The Polar Plunge is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a movement of volunteers dedicated to increasing awareness and funds for Special Olympics Michigan athletes across the state.

Because of their “support and bravery to plunge” into the freezing cold water, Havens said that plungers were “directly helping athletes step out of the sidelines and into a lifechanging experience.”

Berrien County

Undersheriff Chuck Heit, who counted himself as part of the seven-member Berrien County Sheriff’s Office plunge team, said that the Southwest Michigan plunge is in District 17, which is comprised of Berrien and Cass counties and some of Van Buren County.

“It’s one of the biggest polar plunges in the state,” he said.

Plunges go on throughout all the districts in the state and last through March.

Plungers are members of the local law enforcement as well as

10 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com
The crowd awaits the plunge Brock Havens and Johnny Reinhardt emcee the event Plungers step down from the Plungester The Prosecutors Office cheer before the plunge Meg Killips, Courtney Severn and Nathan Voytovick of the New Buffalo City Police Department pose after the plunge Costumed plungers prepare to take the plunge Cheering on the Plungesters

the Michigan State Police, different organizations and corporate teams. Fundraising is required to participate in the event.

Heit said that, as of that morning, the sheriff’s office’s team had raised almost $19,000.

“It’s by far our biggest as well in the fundraising, so we’re very thankful for all those who donated,” he said.

The sheriff’s office also participated in No Shave November, with proceeds going toward the plunge.

New Buffalo Township Fire Chief Jamie Flick, who counted himself as a member of the fire department’s eightmember team, said that, as of that morning, the team had raised a little over $6,100 – also the most they’ve ever raised.

“It’s going for a great cause,” he said.

As opposed to having a pool, this year, the Plungester, a trailer that’s made especially for the plunge rolled into the street in front of the brewery, with members of the Lincoln Township Fire Department filling the tank on it with “very cold water” before the event, Heit said.

Despite the frigid water temperature, Audrey Proctor, a cadet with the New Buffalo Township Fire Department, said she enjoyed her first-time

experience of taking the plunge.

“It was for a good cause, I’m glad I did it - I loved it and I’d do it again,” she said.

Heather Fox, director of Law Enforcement Torch Run at Special Olympics Michigan, said that it was expected that over $500,000 would be raised from the five plunges that were going on that weekend.

It was also expected that the state would hit $1.6 million from the plunges.

“It’s a fun event – the energy’s always high at these events, people love it, young and old, it’s familyfriendly,” she said.

Fox said that the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is comprised of a group of officers from around the state, is a worldwide organization.

“Around the state from Michigan, officers raise money for Special Olympics and this falls under that umbrella, so we have a lot of law enforcement officers in the area that have raised a ton of money, they sit on our committee - some representatives from Berrien County and the Michigan State Police - so we really appreciate the law enforcement support of this event,” she said.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 11
The Lighthouse Education Center Berrien RESA team Josh Leonard and Ryan Morales prepare for the plunge The New Buffalo Township Fire Department steps down after the plunge Stepping down from the Plungester after the plunge The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Warming up before the big plunge Members of the New Buffalo Township Fire Department after the plunge
12 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 18 THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 www.newbuffalotimes.com Professionals in all of your tree care needs Maple City Tree Speciali Dennis Jeffers, 219-393-3155 maplecitytree@comcast.net free e Commercial • Residential 37 Years Experience • Insured REMOVAL TRIMMING PRESERVATION SNOW PLOWING ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE PLEASE CONTACT JANINE L. ADAMSKI JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM (630) 370-0820 LOCAL INTELLIGENCE New Buffalo Times — SINCE 1942 — Residential Builder MI License No. 2102222731 219-808-1329 johnrtaylor1953@gmail.com Modular Home Construction the cost-effective alternative to new housing Customize Your Own floor Plan Remodeling/ Home Improvement/ New Construction State Farm, Bloomington, IL 1211999 Tom Rossman, Agent 815 E Buffalo New Buffalo, MI 49117 Bus: 269-469-4442 Toll Free: 866-848-5266 www.tomrossman.net SERVICE DIRECTORY State Farm, Bloomington, IL 1211999 Tom Rossman, Agent 815 E Buffalo New Buffalo, MI 49117 Bus: 269-469-4442 Toll Free: 866-848-5266 www.tomrossman.net SERVICE DIRECTORY ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE PLEASE CONTACT JANINE L. ADAMSKI JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM (630) 370-0820 Largest Amish Dealer in SW Michigan AmishBuiltBarns.com • 269-876-1323 • 2305 M-139, Benton Harbor, MI (Old Blossom Lanes Bowling Alley) Custom Built! No Credit Check!! Sizes from 8’x8’ to 32’x40’ 100 + MODELS ON LOT! Rent to Own (Everyone Approved)

Betty Jean Lambert 1951-2023

Betty Jean Lambert, 71, of Galien, died peacefully Tuesday, January 31, 2023, in the comfort of her family’s presence, surrounded by angels.

Her life began September 12, 1951, in Buchanan, Michigan, the second of five children born to Leland and Mary Williams. She married Lewis A. Lambert on June 24, 1967, in Hannibal, Missouri.

Betty loved taking care of the future generations by having her own inhome day care. She loved each child/

OBITUARIES

grandchild as her own and created special bonds with them and their families. Her walls were decorated with special decorations and baked goodies that were shared with family and friends. Betty had an open heart and never said no to a charity that she believed in. She co-founded Christmas for the Less fortunate (CLF) where she was a member for forty years. She was also a member of the Galien Lions, Outreach International, all Church activities, and everything else that her heart believed in.

In what spare time she had, she enjoyed camping at Potato Creek, traveling especially to Noah’s Ark, and ensuring that not only her immediate family but also her extended family enjoyed those experiences. Spending time around the campfire, sharing stories and making memories with those she loved. She loved collecting Noah’s Ark figurines, Lighthouses, tending her gardens and watching the birds outside her windows, especially the red cardinals. She will be remembered for her baking not only for family events but for all the church

DEATH NOTICES:

bake sales. Her specialties were the apple pies, almond coffee ring, and pecan squares to name a few.

Betty was a great giver, a poor receiver and called everyone around her an angel. She will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her husband of fifty-five years Lewis A. Lambert of Galien; daughter, Ann (Jerry) Reneau of Fort Wayne, Indiana; son, Lewis J. (Mary-Margaret) Lambert of Galien; grandchildren, Dakota Lambert, Nancy Lambert, Jayme Reneau, Katie Lambert, Jenna Reneau; sister, Judy (Jim) Foster of Three Oaks; brothers, Allen (Wendy) Williams of Galien, Steve Williams of South Bend; brothers-in-law, Ken Quint of Three Oaks, Jim McClaran of Jacksonville, Florida, Matt Bradley of Buchanan; sisters-in-law, Diane Beadles of Galien, Evelyn (Tim) Freehling of Sturgis; special daughter, Carolyn (Tom) Selby of Fenton, Michigan; special brother, Paul Kennedy of North Carolina; several adopted children and grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Randy Lambert; and sister, Diana Quint.

Family and friends gathered Friday, February 3, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks. The funeral service was held Saturday, February 4, 2023, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. in the Community of Christ Church, 110 South Main Street, Galien.

Betty was laid to rest in Galien Township Cemetery.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Betty be made to Community of Christ – Galien, 2761 Kaiser Road, Galien, Michigan 49113 or Christmas for the Less Fortunate (CLF) 2761 Kaiser Road, Galien, Michigan 49113.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online at www.wagnercares.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 13
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Housing study confirms major need already being addressed

LaPorte needs to add close to two thousand or more new housing units to its current supply of homes built mostly before 1940.

That’s according to a recently completed study conducted by Chicago based SB Friedman Development Advisors.

The study, which began last summer, also came up with a framework to guide stakeholders in crafting a plan for addressing the housing needs in the city of about 22,000 residents.

Mayor Tom Dermody, who made new and updating current housing for all income levels a top priority, said a dent has been made in the problem since he took over in 2020 but there’s a lot more work to be done.

He said new housing is key to increasing the city’s population and making residents out of people coming here for employment and other things like tourism.

New members of the local workforce have long commuted from places like Michigan, Porter County and St. Joseph County because of the fewer housing options here.

“We have a team that’s ready to work. We have a community that wants to see it. It’ll happen,” he said.

The study proposes adding more than 900 homes for ownership and over 750 rental housing units over the next few years.

Lance Dorn, a partner with the consulting firm, said only 20% of the housing stock in LaPorte was constructed since 1980 and that’s created other issues in areas like condition and safety.

“Those are impacting neighborhoods really throughout the community but there’s a concentration of that in the downtown area,” Dorn said.

The study also points to a need to renovate existing residential structures.

Recent new housing successes include the opening of 200 resort type apartments near Clear Lake, ongoing expansion of Whispering Meadows subdivision and complete revamping of a once condemned 40 unit apartment house at 701 Maple Ave.

Plans are also in the works for building more affordable homes in the near future at the former Tibma Bakery site on Woodward Street and an undeveloped site on 18th Street near Kesling Park.

Bert Cook, executive director of the LaPorte Economic Advancement Partnership, said construction of more upscale housing should also begin this year next to Beechwood Golf Course.

Cook said he believes the numbers reflect not just current need but also what has to be done to achieve the mayor’s goal of raising the population to 30,000 by 2030.

Cook also believes the amount of new housing recommended in a relatively short period time is a challenge but attainable especially under the right economic conditions.

“It is a significant goal to try and reach but it’s one we’re positioned for and I think it’s something that’s desperately needed here,” Cook said.

14 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com

HOROSCOPE

FEBRUARY 9-15,

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

The energy coming your way this week is all about releasing and letting go of pain and disappointment. It’s time to move past any painful or difficult issues you have with friends. There will be an opportunity to have a very healing conversation, but you will have to make the first move.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Now is the time to clean up your public image. Take opportunity this week to get more out of your public life and your social connections by revamping your profiles and updating contact information. Be sure your online image is more in tune with the real you. Be more authentic.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

Expect to feel some shifts in your career and reputation this week. Now is the time to push through blockages and free yourself from tyrannical or demanding authority figures. This is the time to be more assertive and to surround yourself with people who are truly supportive.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

Sometimes the way we see things is just off and we need to really retool our thought processes. This is the time to take an honest look at how you are interpreting situations because whether you realize it or not those misconstrued ideas are creating problems that otherwise wouldn’t be.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

It’s important to start taking relationship issues more seriously and not tolerate disloyalty or disrespectful behaviors. That doesn’t mean you have to be a tyrant or super vigilant. It just means putting up boundaries and following through with consequences. Stay true to your word.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

Now is the time to face relationship issues head on. Focus on expressing your emotions more and listening without judgment. Let go of your pride and tell people how you feel. By embracing vulnerability, you open the space for genuine conversation and that is when the healing can begin.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22

The energy radiating from the stars this week is all about dealing with clutter, bad habits and messy work environments. It’s time to get things cleared out and uncluttered. Purge any toxic behaviors and attitudes this week by confronting situations with confidence and sincerity.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

The energy coming your way now that is rich with creative ideas. Let that energy inspire you to express your inner feelings and release pain through artistic expression. Don’t hold things in. Let those around you see the inner you, no matter how different or unusual you think you are.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

This is the time to start clearing out the past, not just old and worn-out items from your home, but old habits and ways of thinking. Be completely honest with yourself and let go of the people and situations that are no longer contributing to your betterment. Honor the truth, no matter how difficult.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

There is a lot happening in the neighborhood and with siblings this week. People will be ready to get things cleaned up and any type of trash talking or dishonesty will not be tolerated. Let go of negative vibes as well, by focusing on working together and being a team.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

Take some time this week to think about your value system. It may be time to let go of certain situations or people because they are devaluing your worth or talents. What you view as important may not be all that you think it is. Remember the grass is always greener over the septic tank.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

Take the initiative this week to change up your style and appearance. Get rid of those old and shabby cloths. Even though you may not feel fantastic, you can look fantastic. Your attitude and confidence will be elevated when you take the time with your appearance. Book that salon appointment.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 15
2023
You never know how much time you have left.
Martin Scorsese

PUBLIC NOTICES

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN IN ADMIRALTY

IN RE COMPLAINT OF VALERIA MURGAS for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability

Case No. 1:23-cv-110

Judge: PAUL L. MALONEY

NOTICE OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Notice is hereby given that Valeria Murgas, legal owner of the M/V Summer Session, a 30-foot 1995 Carver 310 Santego, bearing Michigan registration number MR 9223 RF and hull identification number CDRJ6027C595 (“the Vessel”), has filed a Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability pursuant to 45 U.S.C. § 30501 et seq. and Rule F of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure—Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty or Maritime Claims (“Rule F”). In the Complaint, Ms. Murgas claims the right to exoneration from or limitation of liability for any and all claims for injuries or damages allegedly resulting from the a marine casualty having occurred on July 2, 2022, on the navigable waters of Lake Michigan near New Buffalo, Michigan.

All persons having such claims must file them under oath, as provided in Rule F, with the Clerk of the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan, 107 Federal Building, 410 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007, and serve on or mail to attorneys for Ms. Murgas, Joseph S. Center of the law firm Gallagher Sharp LLP, located at 420 Madison Avenue, Suite 1250, Toledo, Ohio 43604, a copy of any such claim on or before April 3, 2023, at 5:00 p.m., or be defaulted.

Personal attendance is not required.

Any claimant desiring to contest the Complaint must file and serve a claim and answer to the same as required by Rule F(4) and F(5).

Dated: February 2, 2023

Clerk, United States District Court

Western District of Michigan

Brush with death from crash into business

ATrail Creek business owner was still a bit unnerved a few days after a vehicle traveling off a highway crashed into his office very close to where he was seated.

“I feel lucky to be alive,” said Donnie Pawlik, owner of Amish Structures at 8555 W. U.S. 20 near Evergreen Plaza.

Pawlik, who lives in the Trail Creek area, said he was in his office Saturday, Feb. 4, doing things like paperwork when he heard a crash and got up from his desk to investigate.

His badly damaged extended cab pick-up truck was halfway inside his showroom with furniture and other belongings strewn on the floor.

The vehicle came to rest about 10 feet from where he was seated on the other side of an inside wall.

His truck parked outside was sent crashing through the brick exterior wall sideways from being struck by another vehicle.

“I realized I almost died,” said Pawlik when describing how he felt when he first saw the damage.

“He was very shaken up,” said

Coolspring Township Assistant Fire Chief Warren Smith, who was among the emergency responders at the scene.

Smith said a NIPSCO pole and gas meter were also taken out in the crash.

Trail Creek Police had still not released any details about the accident.

However, Pawlik said the westbound driver traveled over 200 feet off the four lane highway before the collision.

Smith also said more damage and even serious injury to Pawlik could have resulted had there not been a vehicle in the path of the driver to absorb the blow.

“It’s a good thing his truck was in the way because it probably could have killed him,” he said.

The company sells prefabricated garages, sheds and outdoor furniture made by the Amish in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Pawlik said the business he’s owned since 2014 also does concrete and excavating work.

In recognition of Black History Month, the Harbor Country Film Group will screen “Once Upon a Time...When We Were Colored” at its meeting Saturday, Feb. 18, at the New Buffalo Township Library.

The meeting will begin at noon and is expected to last about two-and-a-half hours.

The 1995 release was directed by Tim Reid, and portrays life in the segregated south in the 1950s.

“This was an extremely challenging and hurtful time,” said Eve Moran, film group leader. “And yet, against it all, a tightly connected rural community exercised a special power. This film celebrates the close bonds of family, friends and church that sustained and nurtured a young boy growing up in Mississippi.”

In his 1995 review, Roger Ebert gave the film four stars.

The film group has temporarily moved its meetings to Saturday afternoons, in view of early darkness and possibly nasty winter weather. All are welcome at the meetings and there will be free popcorn for everyone.

www.newbuffalotimes.com 16 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023
New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —
‘ONCE UPON A TIME...WHEN WE WERE COLORED’ IS FILM GROUP CHOICE FOR FEBRUARY MEETING
— STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 www.newbuffalotimes.com 17
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