February 23, 2023

Beach access usage fees discussed by Grand Beach Village Council

PAGE 4

New Buffalo City Council approves requests to vacate rights of way

PAGE 5

Lady Bison put on scoring clinic in victory

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Bison comeback but lose in double overtime

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Empty Bowls dinner benefits local cause PAGE 8

PHOTO OF (FRONT, L-R) BRIANNA WINGARD, BIANCA ILESCAS-VILLA, (BACK, L-R) COLLEEN CHLYSTUN AND ANGELINA BRYK CHEERING DURING WEDNESDAY’S GAME BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

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New Buffalo man facing drug dealing charges

BY STAN MADDUX

ANew Buffalo man is looking at potential time in prison for allegedly selling methamphetamine.

Mark Wingard, 45, is charged with dealing methamphetamine, maintaining a drug house and engaging in illegal drug related activity close to a school.

He was arrested Feb. 16 at his home at 1305 Bell Ave., which is just a short walk from New Buffalo Middle School-High School.

Berrien County Police Deputy Shawn Yech said enough methamphetamine to distribute for sale was confiscated during a search of the residence.

Other items seized were used syringes and used smoking pipes along with other things like a digital scale, packaging material and some processed marijuana, he said.

Yech said Wingard was

dealing methamphetamine to support his habit and profit financially.

“It appeared like most people that Mark Wingard was using and selling drugs,” he said.

He said the investigation began late last year in response to anonymous concerns about heavy vehicular traffic at his residence and information about his alleged dealings surfacing in other unrelated drug cases in Berrien County.

Yech said his activities were not on a large scale but he did have customers from a fairly wide area in places like Galien and Michigan City.

“There was quite a few people buying and selling for Mark Wingard,” he said.

Yech said the investigation will now focus on determining his supplier.

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New Buffalo Times

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

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TEACH THE WHOLE TRUTH...

Many Republican politicians, along with a number of extreme right-wing organizations, are waging persistent attacks on public school teachers, administrators, and school board members for daring to teach the truth about racial injustice in America.

Teachers need to teach all aspects of our nation’s history – the just and the unjust, the admirable and the deplorable. Students need to learn the whole truth, not an incomplete version of the truth. If they are taught a one-sided picture, in which only admirable behavior is examined, they are not receiving the education they deserve. Learning about past injustices is essential in order to undo current injustices and prevent future ones. By learning the whole truth, students will be prepared to create a more just and positive future.

The politicians and organizations that are attacking public schools are doing so under the false and misleading banner of “parents’ rights”. Parents certainly have the right to express their views about what they believe should and should not be taught to their child or children. However, parents’ views are not all the same. What one parent urgently wants excluded in their child’s education, another parent may just as urgently want included. Teachers and administrators need to listen carefully and respectfully to the views of all parents and take them into account as they organize their curriculum and make their teaching plans. At the same time, parents need to listen carefully and respectfully to the views of teachers and administrators, who are professional educators whose training and experience provide them with specific knowledge and skills about what to teach and how to teach. They are the experts on education – their knowledge and skills should be recognized and respected.

Ideally, parents and teachers will form a collaborative partnership that focuses on the educational well-being of all students.

— LARRY FELDMAN, LAKESIDE

There are no friendships among the wicked.

— 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

Beach access usage fee discussed by Grand Beach Village Council

Members of the Grand Beach Village Council picked up on a discussion with regards to a fee for use of the village’s beach access points but tabled deciding on it until next month at their Wednesday, Feb. 15, meeting.

Last month, Grand Beach Village Council President Harry Walder had proposed a fee of $10,000. At the Feb. 15 meeting, he said it looks like someone else wants to use one of the lake access points to do some revetment repair work in the next month or so.

He had discussed a sliding scale at the last meeting, which would be $3,000 a day to use the access for the first three days and then nothing for the remainder of the week and $3,000 a day for the first three days and nothing for the remainder of that week for the second week and then after that, $4,000 a day. This would be $18,000, although Walder said the amount is negotiable.

He said the reason for the sliding scale is that if work is done faster, it would “cost them less in terms of what they have to pay us and it allowed us to keep their feet to the fire to get it done and get out of there.”

Councilmember and parks and beaches commissioner Peter Doerr said that they should have at least this much of an amount for revetment work that requires heavy equipment and not with regards to people using the access points for deck construction on the side of their house.

Councilmember Ed Brandes said that they needed to look at each project’s “variabilities,” such as location, time of year and complexity.

He suggested possibly getting a small work group together to come up with a recommendation for a “formula.”

Councilmember Blake O’Halloran said that all work that’s now being done is maintenance and that “pretty much almost all homes have the revetment” and it’s not an “emergency situation.”

He added that the “main reason we’re doing it is for homeowners, our residents, so

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

they can enjoy the beach.”

“We don’t have a lot of time to enjoy the beach when you look at the weather, and so we’re trying to maximize that for all that love Grand Beach,” he said.

Doerr said that he could put the topic on Parks and Beaches Committee’s upcoming meeting agenda.

Councilmembers approved awarding the bid for roof replacement on the village hall and maintenance building to Martarano’s Roofing for an amount of $42,990 and a twoyear labor warranty as well as an allowance of $5,000 for unknowns that will only be spent if necessary and needed, with the money coming out of Capital Projects Fund.

Walder said they received three bids for the two roof replacements. He added that the bid doesn’t include costs for replacing any rotted materials that won’t be viewable until the roof starts to be torn off, so there may potentially be some additional costs.

The work, which should take about four days for both buildings, will not be done until after the tuckpointing is done on the chimney and that can’t be done until the spring, which will probably be in May.

Councilmembers approved awarding the bid for chimney tuckpointing work to Moore Construction for $10,800, which will come out of Capital Projects.

Councilmembers approved 2023 golf cart parking sticker fees and golf fees.

Pro shop commissioner O’Halloran said that, due to inflation and the rising cost of materials, as well as ensuring that the village can “get wages in line with other businesses” in terms of labor, he’s raising the sticker fees by $10.

The following fees for residents for 2023 were approved: paid before May 1, $260; paid before June 1, $285 and paid June 1 or after, $310. The following fees for nonresidents were approved: paid before May 1, $300 and paid May 1 or after, $330.

The fine for a golf cart without a sticker or an expired sticker is $300.

Fees for an adult card for residents and a senior (over 62 years old) pass are also being increased by $10, with the adult card increasing from $150 to $160 and senior passes from $100 to $110. Calling them “really good deals,” O’Halloran said the price for an adult card allows 11 punches plus one free round and the price for senior passes allows 10 punches plus one free round.

Councilmembers approved purchasing five chairs for the council table at a cost of $359.99 per chair based on Office Depot honoring the sale price at a price not to exceed $1,800, with money coming out of the Capital Projects, as well as three chairs for the staff table at approximately $90 per chair at a cost not to exceed $400, which will come out of the Capital Fund chairs budget.

Councilmembers approved paying $25,291 to renew the Property, Liability and Auto Insurance policy.

An additional $200 for the cellular service iPad to be paid for from the Building Inspection Fund was approved.

Increasing the minimum building permit fee from $50 to $200 was approved.

The creation of a police advisory board with the Village of Michiana was approved as well as the appointment of councilmember and police commissioner Brandes and former councilmember and police commissioner Deborah Lindley as the village’s representatives.

Brandes said having the advisory board is part of the five-year “Agreement for Extraterritorial Police Shared Services Between the Villages of Grand Beach and Michiana” from 2019. The four-member board, he said, will “provide leadership and guidance” to the chief of police and will also include two representatives from Michiana.

The appointment of Ross Kerr and Nancy Wendling to the Master Plan Task Force was approved.

is human nature to hate the man whom you have hurt.

New Buffalo City Council approves requests to vacate rights of way

After two brief public hearings, the New Buffalo City Council approved requests to vacate two rights of way, one on South Clinton Street and one on South Kenzie Street, Tuesday, Feb. 21.

The South Clinton Street vacation is for a platted portion between West Detroit Street and the city limits. Kimberly Landess and Mary Robertson had requested the vacation on behalf of the James O. Motycka Living Trust, the owner of a landlocked lot at 315 S. Clinton Street. By vacating a 15-foot-wide stretch, the property can connect to utilities.

Councilmember Mark Robertson abstained from the council vote and explained that, while his name is not on property documents, he had been advised not to vote on the issue to avoid a potential conflict of interest due to being married to the applicant Mary Robertson.

The South Kenzie Street vacation is also for an undeveloped street. City manager Darwin Watson explained the area abuts the New Buffalo High School track and football field and there have been safety concerns regarding trees growing in the platted area. He said the school is also planning to develop a trail to connect Oselka Park, to the north of the school field, and planned recreational facilities along Clay Street.

Bob Gino, who owns lots to the west of the area in question, told the council one of his lots has a Kenzie address and is currently only accessible through the adjacent apartment complex parking lot. He asked what would need to be done if he ever sold the landlocked lot. Mayor John Humphrey said Gino would need to cede an easement, which Watson said would not be expensive.

The council untabled a discussion from their January meeting regarding a proposal for strategic planning from consultant Lewis Bender, Ph.D. The proposed planning is intended to set short-term goals and create a proactive approach to projects. Watson said the sessions Bender offers are $3,000 each, but the council could arrange a Zoom meeting with Bender at no charge to learn more about what he does.

Robertson said he was willing to join the meeting with Bender, but he did feel the

BY THERESE DONNELLY

city should focus on spending money to improve roads.

The council also discussed a proposal from public relations firm Civic Savvy to provide PR services, including social media strategy, a city newsletter and other services for $775 a month or $9,300 a year. Robertson again opined the city should focus its money on improving roads. He questioned if the work could be done by the city. Humphrey said the city staff is already “stretched to the wall” handling duties.

The council tabled a decision.

Downtown events are being planned. The council approved special event applications for the seasonal farmers market and New Buffalo Business Association’s new “Spring into Summer” weekend.

This year’s farmers market will be Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. at the vacant lot on Merchant Street between Whittaker and Thompson. The market will kick off June 8 and “Spring into Summer” will be June 9 through 11, with a variety of events throughout the weekend.

Tour de Shore, the 100-mile bike ride from Chicago to New Buffalo, is planned for June 17. The council spoke with organizers, but the special event application won’t be ready until the March meeting.

To comply with the State of Michigan Uniform Budgeting and Accounting Act, the council approved the 2023 budget amendments Watson presented. Watson explained the amendment ensures there is proper funding for expenditures not planned for in the original budget.

The council also approved the annual Poverty Exemption Resolution, providing property tax abatement to homeowners who met income guidelines established by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Qualifying income depends on the number of people in the family.

The Board of Review will meet in June to review the annual assessment roll and hear appeals. State law requires additional meetings in July and December to “correct clerical errors and mutual mistakes of fact.” The law requires these meetings be the Tuesday after the third Monday in July, and the Tuesday after the second Monday in December. Cities are allowed to establish alternate meeting dates. Watson explained

some tax assessors work for multiple jurisdictions and need flexibility to attend all meetings. The council approved setting alternative meeting dates for the July and December meetings.

In 2022, sediment made it difficult to navigate the city harbor. The council approved a proposal from Seaworks for $8600 to perform a multibeam sounding of the harbor. Watson said this system will provide a better detailed mapping of the harbor. Councilmember Brian Flanagan commented the work must be done to allow boat traffic in the harbor.

The council also approved the purchase of new picnic tables for Lions Park pavilion and the municipal marina. Parks director Kristen D’Amico told the council the current tables are no longer usable. The new tables from Penchura LLC will cost a total of $24,970, including freight charges. D’Amico said the new tables are steel and maintenance free.

Later in the meeting, the council discussed plans for the public restrooms at the city beach. Last year the city placed porta potties at the beach when the restroom was unusable. D’Amico said the permanent restrooms had issues caused by tree roots affecting the sewer and old fixtures, and the Parks Department did not have staff to clean and maintain the facilities. She said the plumbing issues have been resolved. The council asked about renting or buying a portable restroom trailer but D’Amico explained it would be difficult to find a place accessible to a service truck that could connect to water and electricity. She added it would be additional work for staff to clean them and the trailer would need to be locked at night to deter vandalism.

A pump and motor at the city water filtration plant needs to be pulled, overhauled and reinstalled. Watson reported the pump was installed when the plant was built and has been in service for over 50 years. The repairs requested by water superintendent Ken Anderson normally last 12 to 15 years and the pump was last serviced in 2007. The council approved the work by Peerless Midwest for $36,525.

The council voted to approve the

adoption of the Berrien County Hazard Mitigation Plan, which assesses and classifies local hazards, and develops plans to prevent or respond to hazards.

Humphrey said he had recently spoken with residents concerned with the possibility of a local event similar to East Palestine, Ohio, where a freight train derailment led to a hazardous chemical spill and the controlled release of vinyl chloride. Humphrey noted a similar derailment in New Buffalo would be even more harmful, as spilled chemicals would flow towards Lake Michigan. Robertson noted the council’s approval could be considered a form of strategic planning.

The council approved the submission of an application to the USDA Community Facilities Loan Program for $1,821,079.32 for the municipal marina project. The program provides low-interest loans for 30- to 40-year terms.

The council had a second reading of an amendment to Chapter 12 of the Code of Ordinances regarding dangerous and uninhabitable structures. Watson said the amendment will make enforcement of the ordinance more efficient.

The council briefly discussed the possibility of an electronic sign outside city hall to share information, but Watson said the Michigan Department of Transportation has restrictions to avoid distracting drivers. The council did not take any action.

The Pokagon Fund Executive Director Dan Petersen told the council applications for adult and graduating senior scholarships are being accepted until March 15. He also said the Pokagon Fund is partnering with New Buffalo Township and New Buffalo Township Fire Department for a shred day May 6 at the township public safety building to safely shred personal documents.

Before the council went into closed session to discuss legal strategy, Humphrey took a moment to mark the passing of deputy clerk Nancy Griffin. Humphrey said she was a “valued city employee” and expressed condolences to Griffin’s family and friends. He said the city staff will provide information regarding arrangements and flowers.

The New Buffalo High School girls’ basketball team looked razor sharp in a blowout victory at home Tuesday, Feb. 21.

The Lady Bison defeated Grace Christian 69-38.

It was easily the most points the Lady Bison have scored in a game all season.

Head coach Dave Kelly said it was also the best his players have executed, particularly in passing the ball to open shooters.

Execution and fundamentals are things the team has worked on extensively since the season began in December.

“It’s a concept that I think they picked up on tonight quite a bit,” he said.

New Buffalo went into halftime leading 35-22 but quickly put the game on ice during a flurry of scoring early in the third quarter.

Five of the six buckets after halftime were scored by seniors Sami

Lady Bison put on scoring clinic in victory

BY STAN MADDUX

Smith and Jordan Bryk.

Senior Aaliyah

Bradshaw factored into the scoring twice with brilliant passes resulting

in lay-ups during the run.

Junior Lily Ruskowski later contributed with a pass to Bryk for another

easy score close to the rim.

The lead grew to 28 points when freshman Ava Mancini scored

twice from lay-ups set up by a pass and her moving through holes in the defense while dribbling the ball the full

length of the court.

The third period ended after Smith dribbled in close to the paint and nailed a bank shot.

Three of the five buckets scored by New Buffalo in the fourth quarter were from passes, including one from senior Lexie Parmley, who found Bryk wide open near the rim.

Smith and Bryk had 23 and 22 points respectively while Parmley and Mancini combined for 14 points.

Kelly said the team (4-13) has improved noticeably and could pull off a victory during their first game of the district tournament.

The Lady Bison open the post season tourney Monday, Feb. 27, against Countryside Academy. New Buffalo defeated the Cougars in early December at home 46-8. The district tournament will be played at Michigan Lutheran.

The word “Borz” means The Wolf in Chechen. — Khamzat Chimaev

From the Bleachers

COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

While talking with an old college friend that I haven’t seen in years, I was reminded why we were such good friends.

Freshman year, I was sitting in my dorm room, playing Motown music with the volume up to eleven, when a guy from down the hall came dancing into my room saying how much he loved the Temptations, a soulful group from the 60’s that was also my favorite group.

We got to talking a little longer and discovered that we had grown up relatively close to each other, loved Chicago sports teams, and R&B music. Now, some 50 years later, it seemed like yesterday when we last talked. If that doesn’t show you the power of music and sports, I’m not sure what does.

My friend Nick, who was about six inches shorter than me, snuck up behind me once and blocked my shot during a pick-up game. All these years later, that block still brings him so much joy that it brings a huge, sincere smile to my face.

We played a lot of basketball, once even playing a game with Walt Frazier (we didn’t know who he was at the time, but most of all we sat around listening to records and talking about sports. We attended Southern Illinois University when Walt Frazier was playing), Frazier went on to have a hall of fame career for the New York Knicks).

We spent many hours at the Arena cheering on the team that would eventually defeat the Marquette Warriors to win the NIT championship

at Madison Square Garden. We also used to playfully fight with Carl, the middle linebacker on the football team.

Once the playing around went a little too far and, thankfully, he did us a favor by leaving and going upstairs to his room. About an hour later, he called to me through his open window. I opened my window and stuck my head out only to get drenched by a wastebasket full of water. He yelled laughingly that I needed too cool down. Carl went on to play for over a decade in the NFL and coached another decade.

The Cubs were beginning to emerge from years of mediocrity, the Bears were the Bears, still years away from their championship team with the great defense and coach Ditka, and Michael Jordan had yet to arrive in Chicago, but Aretha Franklin was coming to town so all was right with the world.

Well, not exactly. Viet Nam was raging and young men everywhere were being asked to go to war. The Democratic convention was being held in Chicago, students were demonstrating, and Mayor Daley issued a “shoot to kill” order to the police force.

Sometimes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. A very astute unknown person said, “Choose a major you love and you’ll never work a day in your life because that field probably isn’t hiring.”

Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

Bison comeback but lose in double overtime

BY STAN MADDUX

Winning could be in the future for the young New Buffalo High School boys’ basketball team judging by its late season performance against a conference opponent at home Tuesday, Feb. 21.

The Bison lost 4542 in double overtime to Our Lady of the Lake.

Last month, New Buffalo (2-16) lost to the Lakers by 16 points.

“The scores haven’t shown it but our guys are improving. They’re getting a lot better,” said head coach Nate Tripp.

Junior Elliot Bourne forced the first overtime when he dribbled swiftly down the court and nailed a 12 foot jump shot to even the score at the buzzer.

The Bison, who were trailing by 10 points in the third quarter, opened the first overtime period by taking the lead when junior Andres Becerra sank a threepoint shot.

New Buffalo again led by three points when freshman Nick Haskins hit one of two free throw attempts with 20 seconds left on the clock.

Victory was in sight for the Bison when Junior Owen McLoughlin, who’s considered one of the best players in the conference, missed a three point shot.

However, the Lakers rebounded the ball and McLoughlin put up another threepoint shot but this time, he didn’t miss as time ran out.

The Bison took the lead in the second overtime period on a lay-up from Bourne that was set up by a nifty pass from Haskins.

A three point shot from freshman Sam Tripp later gave the Bison a two point

lead.

The Lakers (6-12) took the lead for good with less than two minutes left on the clock, though, when junior Matt Lage stole the ball and raced down the court for a lay-up.

A desperation three point shot by New Buffalo with just a few ticks left on the clock fell way off the mark.

“Our guys worked their butts off. They played fantastic tonight. Nothing to be upset about,” Tripp said.

The difference maker in the Bison coming back to force overtime was junior Cameron Forker, who entered the game at the beginning of the fourth quarter.

The 6’2”, 280-pound Forker, who provided a badly needed physical presence close to the rim, finished with six points and more than a half dozen rebounds.

Becerra and Tripp led the Bison with nine points apiece while Bourne contributed seven points and played outstanding defense.

Tripp said the team, which started four freshmen, has talent and a burning desire to win.

However, the players have trouble at times with mistakes caused by youth and teams with larger, more experienced players.

Tripp said the team is becoming more competitive, though, and should be a force to reckon with next season as they physically mature and sharpen up on fundamentals.

He wouldn’t rule out the possibility of pulling off an upset in the upcoming district tournament.

“We’ll be ready,” he said.

Empty Bowls dinner benefits local cause A REAL COMMUNITY EFFORT

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

This year, the Empty Bowls fundraiser, which was held at New Buffalo Middle/High School Tuesday, Feb. 21, was a true community effort.

Sponsored by the New Buffalo High School Student Senate and the New Buffalo Fine Arts Council, the event featured a display of glistening ceramic bowls that were made by members of the New Buffalo High School Pottery Club and attendees of the community pottery workshops, which have been taking place at the high school since October. For a suggested donation of $10, guests were invited to choose an empty bowl before enjoying a meal of chili or soup, a drink and a dessert.

Ashley Jager, secondary art teacher at New Buffalo Middle/ High School, said she’s thankful for “all the hands” that were involved in making the night a success – from students in the foods and nutrition class and teachers who made the soups to members of the student senate who dished out the food to members of the pottery club who volunteered their time at the event and the workshops.

Last year, there were 30 bowls. This year, there were 60 – and only a few were left by the night’s end.

“My goal this year was to double the output and just donate to the cause, which you see we’ve done - just tremendous support for the art department and specifically Blessings in a Backpack, which we’re all working towards,” Jager said.

Student potters began at the beginning of the year with creating the colors of the test tiles and pre-wedging all the clay for the workshops. Students were involved

in every community workshop, teaching adult participants how to throw on the pottery wheel and how to handmake a bowl.

“Then they’re trimming the bowl so it’s ready for the firing, sanding the bowls and then the glazing sessions we held for community members to paint on the glaze,” Jager said, adding that students also glazed some of the bowls.

Lots of times, parents and students were working “hand in hand.”

“It was amazing to see the generational gap of this project,” Jager said.

Aaron Joseph said his mom and stepfather, Brett Riley, each made a couple of bowls in the workshop.

A freshman at New Buffalo High School, this is his first time in the pottery club.

“It’s fun just shaping the clay to whatever you want,” he said.

Riley said that pottery was something he always wanted to get involved in and that it was “an enjoyable experience to get firsthand, hands-on – literally –knowledge of it.”

Joseph especially reveled in showing him the ropes.

“He enjoys being able to have the spot where he’s showing me something rather than the opposite way – normally the dynamic is reversed,” Riley said.

Proceeds benefitted the New Buffalo chapter of Blessings in a Backpack, which is supported by Water’s Edge United Methodist Church in New Buffalo.

Mary Robertson, chair of the New Buffalo chapter, said that this year, the program has about 16 volunteers (some of whom have been there

since the beginning), who pick up groceries and gather Thursdays at New Buffalo Elementary School to pack the bags of food.

Food is distributed to children every Friday, so they can have them for the weekend.

Each week, Robertson said that they put between eight and 10 food items in each bag – a couple breakfast items, lunch items and snacks. Students will receive twice as much food for the upcoming spring break, since they’ll be home all week.

For Thanksgiving, students received gift cards toward purchasing food.

To receive a bag of food, students who are free and reduced lunch at the elementary school can fill out a form from Patty Iazzetto, food services director. Robertson can also be contacted at mrobertson58@ comcast.net or 269-469-1925.

Robertson said that Empty Bowls not only raises money for a local cause, it also raises awareness of the hidden poverty in the local community.

“People come here and they think it’s a wealthy community, they don’t understand we have a need for it… When I used to do food drives at Barney’s, and a lot of tourists were so surprised we needed help here,” she said.

At one of the food drives, she met Erin Kerr, the chief executive officer of Blessings in a Backpack, who has a home in nearby Grand Beach.

Created by The Imagine Render Group, Empty Bowls is an international grassroots movement to fight hunger.

Ren Nash, Ava Brown and Keagen Papke serve up soup

Aaron Joseph and Izzy Moser display some ceramic bowls

Mom and daughter Amy and Camille Czech enjoy soup

Ashley Jager (left) hangs out by the bowl display with Giada Pawlowski and Samantha Schimanski

Bison celebrate a Disney-themed Winterfest 2023

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

The wonderful world of Disney – and Bison-hood – was celebrated during this year’s New Buffalo High School’s Winterfest, which took place Feb. 13-21.

Students decorated massive Disneythemed banners, which hung on the walls of the blue and gold gym for all to see during the Winterfest game Tuesday, Feb. 21 (see page 7). Winners of the banner contest were as follows: first place, juniors; second place, seniors; third place, sophomores and fourth place, freshmen.

Throughout the week, students decked themselves out in themed ensembles for “spirit days” and earned points for their respective classes. Overall winners of this year’s Winterfest were first place, juniors (50.5 points); second place, seniors (43.5 points); third place, sophomores (35 points) and fourth place, freshmen (21 points).

The weeklong events culminated in the Winterfest game against Our Lady of the Lake Catholic High School, where fans cheered on Aaylihah Bradshaw and Angelo Ciccarelli as they were crowned queen and king.

Other members of the Winterfest Royal Court were Ellie Cybulski, Carys Gallas, Haruki Eberly, Amelia Selir, Neil Johnson, Addison Stover and Joey Pokuta.

Class representatives were Colleen Chlystun and Nicholas Wolfe, freshmen; Emily Walters and Ekolu Brown, sophomores and Audrey Proctor and Cameron Forker, juniors.

(front, l-r) Brianna Wingard, Bianca Ilescas-Villa, (back, l-r) Colleen Chlystun and Angelina Bryk cheer during Wednesday’s game

The junior class, who won Wnterfest, recieve the traditional Spirit Jug

The Winterfest Court awaits the crowning

A Toy Story themed student banner hangs in the gym

Winterfest King and Queen Angelo Ciccarelli and Aaliyah Bradshaw

The boys face off in a volleyball game

Wednesday night

Students sing the National Anthem before the volleyball game

Students toss balls into a bucket as part of a game at the pep rally

Student decorated banners hang in the gym

The student cheering section at Tuesday’s pep rally

The student cheering section at the pep rally

Cheering on fellow students during the basketball game at the pep rally

Students sing the National Anthem before their volleyball game

The boys dive for the volleyball during a Winterfest game

Seniors shout out their graduation year at the pep rally

Students decorated for the gym

The student cheering section during Wednesday’s game

The New Buffalo High School Band marches through the halls

Students play their version of Hungry Hungry Hippo at the pep rally

Students play a tic tac toe game as part of a pep rally game

Juniors shout out their graduation year during the pep rally

The juniors celebrate their win at Wednesday’s volleyball game

Neglect charges in daughter’s drowning

BY STAN MADDUX

Charges have been filed against the parents of a three year old autistic girl who drowned in a nearby lake after wandering away from her home near Long Beach last year.

Andrew Allen, 35, and Breanne Smith, 33, are charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with neglect of dependent resulting in death.

The level 1 felony offense carries a potential 20 to 40 year sentence.

According to court documents, both parents were home but not properly supervising the girl, Ivy Allen, when she went out the back door of the residence May 12 at 401 Long Beach Cove just north of U.S. 12 near Karwick Road.

The girl was found unconscious in Lake Clare near Hacienda restaurant about 45 minutes after her father reported her missing, police said.

She was taken to a hospital and later died.

According to court documents, there was a history of the girl opening doors to leave the home unattended and prior involvement by the Indiana Department of Child Services because of her straying from the residence.

The couple has two other young daughters, one with autism and the other with spina bifida, police said.

Smith told investigators she went to a bedroom when, following breakfast, Ivy returned to watching TV in the living room. It was 15 minutes later when she discovered the patio door was open, police said.

A short time later, a police officer spotted a woman resembling Smith near the small lake.

“It appeared that the woman was looking for someone,” said Michigan City Police Detective Anna Painter in her report submitted to the court.

According to police, Allen said

he was asleep at the time of her disappearance.

Emergency responders were contacted about three hours later after her parents were unable to find the child.

Allen said the girl opened doors often to venture outside but, usually, they found her quickly, according to court documents.

He said in this case, though, it was the longest she had disappeared, court records disclosed.

A few months prior to the girl’s death, police said child welfare authorities gave the parents a home alarm system designed to go off whenever a door opened.

The parents hooked up the alarm system but it was not properly installed, police said.

In 2016, child welfare authorities first became involved with the family after Smith delivered a baby testing positive for THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, according to court documents.

Five years later, they were contacted again when Smith gave birth to a child testing positive for THC and Subutex.

The baby was showing signs of withdrawal from the Subutex often used to treat heroin and other forms of opiate dependence, authorities said.

After a month after the drowning, police said Allen tested positive for amphetamines and methamphetamines while the same drugs along with THC were found in Smith’s bloodstream.

After being taken into custody Wednesday, Allen and Smith were ordered held in the La Porte County Jail on a $100,000 bond pending their initial court hearings.

Zoom meeting rule enforced on commissioner in Florida

BY STAN MADDUX

ALa Porte County Commissioner present on Zoom was stripped of his voting authority during a meeting of the governing body for not being there physically.

Commissioner Rich Mrozinski has been living at a second home in Florida for about the past six weeks.

Before he left for the winter, a new policy allowing each commissioner to attend one meeting a year by Zoom without recuperations was supported by his colleagues on the threemember governing body, Joe Haney and Connie Gramarossa.

Under the new policy, a commissioner attending more than one meeting on Zoom can have their ability to vote taken away at any future meetings they show up to participate virtually.

Mrozinski was attending his third consecutive regularly scheduled meeting of the commissioners on Zoom Feb. 16 when Haney motioned his right to vote be taken away during the session.

His request was supported by Gramarossa.

Mrozinski argued he should be exempt from the policy and given a waiver for medical purposes.

Referring to right to privacy laws, Mrozinski did not provide details of the medical condition he blamed for his extended period of time in Florida.

Mrozinski, who saw combat duty in the Vietnam War, did say he received treatment for his condition at a Veterans Administration medical facility in the area.

Haney didn’t believe the claims from Mrozinski, who has spent recent winters at a second home near Orlando.

“I will not recognize snow birding as a valid medical excuse for you not to be here this evening,” Haney said.

Haney then ordered the public record show Mrozinski not present for the meeting.

Mrozinski also questioned whether the action was legal considering he was elected to represent the public.

“You’re not my boss,” he said.

In addition, he said Haney was not qualified

to make a ruling on his medical issue since he’s not a physician.

La Porte County Attorney Andrew B. Jones said Haney acted within his authority under a new state law.

“He has the power to make that determination as the chair of this meeting,” he said.

Indiana Public Access Counselor Luke Britt said a state law adopted in 2021 gives local governing bodies permission to adopt rules governing attendance.

Coming out of the pandemic, Britt said state lawmakers did not want elected officials continuing to rely on ZOOM to attend meetings as they did previously to reduce exposure to Covid-19.

Britt said the intent of the legislature was to “avoid situations where you’re legislating from afar, but they also wanted to give flexibility. One of the concerns was the snowbird part of it. They frowned upon that, and they wanted to set the parameters,” he said.

Under state law, Britt said waivers can also be granted to deal with death of a relative, military service, injury or threatened injury to a person or property.

He said the chairman of the local governing body has authority to grant or deny a request for a waiver.

Britt said right to privacy laws regarding health apply only to a select number of people, such as doctors.

He said patients can provide their own medical information or instruct their doctors to do it to substantiate their reason for attending meetings remotely.

After the policy was passed, Mrozinski alleged it was retaliation by his political opponents to try and cost him his winters in the Sunshine State.

Haney said the policy was designed to better serve citizens he felt prefer hearing from or engaging physically with their elected representatives.

“We don’t want people raising taxes from a beach in St. Petersburg,” Britt said.

League of Women Voters to offer webinar on ‘National Popular Vote’

The League of Women Voters of Berrien and Cass Counties has announced plans to broadcast a webinar discussing the National Popular Vote (NPV) at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27.

The League of Women Voters of Berrien and Cass Counties invites members of the public to visit the League’s website, lwvbcc.org, so that they can register for the NPV webinar.

Presenter Eileen Reavey has been working on National Popular Vote since 2016. As the National Grassroots Director, she builds momentum and support for this issue nationwide and trains volunteers to be organizers and informed advocates.

National Popular Vote has been leading the campaign to fix the electoral college and elect the president by national popular vote since its founding in 2006 with the creation of the National Popular Vote bill.

For the past 17 years, National Popular Vote has done extensive lobbying education, and coalition building advocating for this bill in all 50 states. Michigan first passed the National Popular Vote bill in 2008, and after 15 years of work, the League believes that 2023 will be the year that Michigan joins the National Popular Vote compact.

National Popular Vote is supported by a broad state coalition including ACLU Michigan, Common Cause Michigan, League of Women Voters of Michigan, Mothering Justice, Michigan Democratic Party, People for the American Way and Stand Up America.

In presidential elections, every vote should be equal, and the candidate with the most votes in all 50 states and DC should be elected president. That isn’t how the current electoral college system works, and five of our 46 presidents have won the election while losing the popular vote. This causes unnecessary division and mistrust and leads to needless recounts and endless litigation. Michigan state legislators have the power and duty to be a part of fixing the electoral college by passing the National Popular Vote bill in 2023. The National Popular Vote bill has been passed by 15 states and DC, representing 195 of the 270 electoral votes needed to make the National Popular Vote bill take effect.

Members of the public now have the opportunity to join staff from NPV in order to learn how this bill works, how close it is to reality, and how they can be a part of making every vote equal in presidential elections.

The League of Women Voters (LWV) is a nonpartisan, grassroots nonprofit dedicated to empowering everyone to fully participate in our democracy. With active Leagues in all 50 states and more than 750 Leagues across the country, League members engage in advocacy, education, litigation, and organizing to protect every American’s freedom to vote.

Native conifers, evergreens topic of March 4 hike

The Harbor Country Hikers’ next hike will focus on Michigan’s conifers and broad-leaf evergreens when Hikers President Pat Fisher discusses evergreens native to Southwest Michigan, others that have found their way to the area mysteriously and still others that appear to be headed this direction at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, at Jens Jensen Preserve and the adjacent Pepperidge Dunes Nature Sanctuary in Sawyer.

The hike kicks off with a 15-minute talk by Fisher, followed by a 1.5-mile hike. Those who attend are advised to dress for the weather, wear a warm cap and sturdy boots or shoes and bring plenty of water. Physical difficulty of the hike is rated “easy”.

Jens Jensen Preserve, a Chikaming Open Lands property, and Pepperidge Dunes, owned by the Michigan Nature Association, protect 45 acres of beech-maple forest with seasonal wetlands, and are a critical corridor along the lakefront for migratory birds.

Although membership in the Hikers is preferred, this hike is open to all.

For directions and other information about the Harbor Country Hikers, visit the group’s website at harborcountryhikers.com or its Facebook page, Harbor Country Hikers. — STAFF REPORTS

Annual tree and shrub seedling fundraiser taking place

The Berrien County Conservation District would like to announce that orders are being accepted for its annual tree and shrub spring fundraiser sale.

A variety of bare root seedlings of evergreens, deciduous trees, shrubs and fruit trees are being offered along with strawberry and asparagus plants. Dune grass is being offered this year. Rain barrels, composters and other items are also available.

Orders may be placed online at www.berriencd.org. Order forms may be printed from the website, or you may request one to be mailed by calling 269-471-9111 ext. 3. Orders are due by April 14. Quantities are limited. — STAFF REPORTS

DEATH NOTICES:

THREE OAKS – James Edward Fox, 91, of Hastings, Michigan, died peacefully Sunday, February 19, 2023. Arrangements are pending at Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks.

A Day in the Life

KEEPING UP APPEARANCES

BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER

At this stage in my old age, sometimes, it's an effort to keep up appearances.

My friends were so nice, devoted, kind and surprised at my frailty. They arrived from their three-hour trip to my house almost an hour earlier than planned. I had just laid down for a sneaky half hour and snuggled into the unmade bed (that I always make first thing in the morning, but not on this crazy day) and I was falling asleep when my dog, Roscoe, started barking. Clearly, someone was at the door.

I stumbled to the door in my sweats with holes in them and crumpled shirt. To my surprise and horror, it was Marta and Bill: My guests had arrived early for our Valentine's dinner. One could be pleasantly surprised, but not me. I was in such disarray that I didn't even have the candles lit or the music playing for their “entrance experience.”

The hors d' oeuvres were still in the refrigerator so no shrimp cocktails, no pan-fired asparagus and no cheese trays were out waiting. As for me? I was a total wreck!

It was challenging to act excited to see them. Very challenging.

Marta, the ever-present, disgruntled diplomat, said, “Let's just sit down and talk since our reservations are not for another hour and a half.” So, I got out the hors d'oeuvres and asked Bill to get a television tray. He did that - except the tray would not open up! We got another tray and Bill set the hors d' oeuvres on it (without removing the Saran wrap). Marta poured the wine (they brought in the wrong stems), and we conversed.

After noshing and reading our Valentine's cards to each other, and some strained chatting for a half hour, Marta and I departed to change our clothes. Bill wasn't changing to anything different from his short jacket, and the lucky devil cleaned up things and put away hors d' oeuvres in the refrigeratorjust as a guest should be doing. (He drove to get here for three hours and then I put him to work!)

So, after 45 minutes of changing clothes (I skipped the shower that I had planned), Marta came out in a resplendent cocktail dress (sleek black, sultry and bejeweled) and off we went in Bill's new Lincoln for the chic Blackburn Hotel in St. Joe and their

“Bistro Room” restaurant.

On the way, though, I started having stomach signals of distress and, coupled with my being struck with leg problems, didn't feel great, Poor Bill had to help me to and from the car and the restroom. We stumbled up the elegant steps to the dining room, and I told the hostess that I needed the restroom ASAP. “We will seat you in a few minutes,” she said. Having had difficulty making the reservation with her misunderstanding me with the simple spelling of my name three times, I snapped, “I said I wanted the restroom, not my table!” So, I went to the very nice restroom and took a half hour. (This was not a star struck evening so far!) Bill stood patiently waiting and checking on me the whole time.

We joined the table with Marta, and they just sat there without ordering drinks or appetizers!

So, we ended up ordering simple appetizers. Marta had her usual difficulty in ordering and embarrassingly started horse-trading with Bill for half of his appetizer and she would give him part of hers (in this firstclass restaurant). I was a little embarrassed. So, I ordered a vodka martini and thought they might order wine or a drink. Wrong! My friends did not order a drink either, with Marta instead raving about how much she loved water. I thought: “Why are we here?” They both ordered appetizers instead of dinners that they exchanged with each other. I ordered an appetizer, too, as I had lost any hint of an appetite.

My legs had become progressively worse and poor Bill had to help me down the steps from the dining room and then into the car and my house when we got back home. Poor Bill got strapped with all kinds of duties throughout the evening, didn't he? Fortunately, he is a man of great patience. Otherwise, he would not be in association with Marta and the likes of me.

I had to wonder what was said on their way to their hotel. A smooth evening it was not.

Sometimes, it’s hard for us old geezers to entertain.

HOROSCOPE

FEBRUARY 23-MARCH 1, 2023

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

When dealing with people you can’t avoid, keep your ego in check. Put the focus on the bigger picture, not just yourself or your image. The important thing is the information, not the style of presentation. So, stick to the facts and keep your delivery simple. Embrace minimalism and you will shine.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

The energy this week can be tricky and you may have to face your shadow. Shadow work is all about accepting those parts of yourself that create problems or that sabotage your progress. If you find yourself saying you don’t know why you did it. The Shadow knows.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

Plans to unite with new people or travel to new places might not pan out this week but don’t get discouraged. Even though your attempts may fail to make that good first impression or see that new horizon, it doesn’t mean total failure. Maybe the win is in the getting there, not the encounter itself.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

Go over business plans and your public image thoroughly this week. Strategize and then take action. Be aware that the energy this week may make it hard for you to hit your mark but it doesn’t mean you won’t eventually. This week it’s all about planning and organizing. Be patient.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

Don’t get discouraged, if it seems like things are not moving forward. This is the time to keep trying and avoid thinking that obstacles mean your plans won’t succeed. Go over itineraries, if things aren’t going your way. Put more time in strategizing and brainstorming. Phone a friend.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

It’s always the darkest before the dawn and in that dawn you must trust, my friend. Know that after the dark the light always follows. At this time, it is important to recognize when darker forces are at work. Call those people out. Force their hand. Be more responsible by calling a spade a spade.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22

Newly formed relationships may face some hard times and even if they fall apart, it doesn’t mean they will be doomed forever. Move on and then look around to see who is next to you because that is the person that’s right for you. Be on your own journey and the right companion will appear.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

Double check everything with coworkers and health providers. Don’t trust that texts or emails will provide all the information you need. Direct, in person communication is where it’s at. Nonverbal ques are so important. They generally make more of an impact than actual words.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

Life has a tendency to come with some messes and the irony is we only make progress when we face it and start cleaning it up. Don’t get discouraged if you have a lot to clear-out or handle. Not all failed attempts mean nothing is learned or gained. It’s just more fuel for the journey.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

It’s not always easy but destructive forces need to be held accountable, even if they are your own making. Don’t shy away from problems or danger. Recalibrate your thinking and face self-sabotaging behaviors by accepting all parts of yourself; even the ones that aren’t people pleasers.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

Get ready for some communication breakdowns this week. Plans to work or get together with people will not succeed unless you leave room for the unexpected. Last minute changes are likely. Being spontaneous and quick thinking is what will win the day; laughter never hurt either.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

This week plans may not materialize in the way you had planned or hoped. Sometimes things aren’t always what they were cracked up to be and disappointment may be unavoidable but there is always something to be gained and celebrated. Look for that silver lining, it’s always there.

I have surrounded myself with very smart people. — Dolly Parton

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

BY: /S/ KELLY VAN DYKE DEPUTY CLERK

upon three (3) days’ notice to the City Clerk. If you require such aids or services and plan to appeal in person, please call the City.

S HALICE NORTHROP, NEW BUFFALO CITY ASSESSOR

DAR, Three Oaks Township Library announce rescheduled program on cemetery preservation

In a reschedule, Rebecca Dewey Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution has partnered with the Three Oaks Township Public Library to bring Prof. of History Thomas Henthorn from the University of Michigan at noon Saturday, March 18, at the library.

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO BOARD

OF REVIEW

The Organizational meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 10:45 am at New Buffalo City Hall, 224 West Buffalo, New Buffalo. No appeals of 2023 assessments will be heard at this time.

The Board of Review will meet to hear appeals of 2023 assessments on Tuesday, March 21, 9:00 am-3:00 pm and Wednesday, March 22, 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Resident and nonresident property owners may protest by letter if received by noon on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Estimated multipliers for each class of property for 2023 are as follows:

Agricultural…...... N/C

Commercial…..... 1.0746

Industrial…......... 1.2970

Residential…........1.2335

The tentative ratio for each class is 50%. The inflation rate multiplier for use in calculating 2023 capped value is 1.05

The City will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to those with disabilities planning to attend

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP, BERRIEN COUNTY, STATE OF MICHIGAN

STATE OF MICHIGAN NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND (MNRTF) GRANT APPLICATION

On March 20, 2023 at 4:00pm, the New Buffalo Township Board will hold a public hearing at the New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Highway, New Buffalo, MI 49117 for the purpose of discussing and commenting on the submission of a MNRTF grant application. The proposed project is to develop the 2nd phase of the Marquette Greenway from the Indiana State line to the US12/ Grand Beach Road intersection. This multi-use trail will ultimately connect New Buffalo to Chicago. The grant request is for $300,000 and the remaining of the project will be funded with RAISE, a federal grant from the US Department of Transportation.

The New Buffalo Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon five-day notice to the New Buffalo Township Board by writing or calling the following: New Buffalo Township Clerk, 17425 Red Arrow Highway, New Buffalo, MI 49117 or 269-4691011.

Cemeteries are more than meets the eye. These historic sites contain art, stories and landscapes that tell everyone a great deal about the past and present. Henthorn will share ways he and his students at the University of Michigan-Flint are working to make cemeteries active public spaces through preservation and how to interpret these historic gems in communities.

Henthorn will give the current technology and procedures to preserve cemetery headstones and structures in relation to cleaning, repairing and restoring monuments to someone’s local and family history.

Henthorn is the Wyatt Endowed Professor of Public History at the University of Michigan-Flint. His research and teaching interests examine the intersection of public history and urban history. He created the cemetery preservation program in 2015. Members of the Rebecca Dewey chapter will present methods to research and locate cemetery history and burials.

A hands-on workshop for any that are interested is scheduled for May 18 at a local cemetery - just in time to plan the cleaning of family’s grave markers for Memorial Day.

For questions, contact Rebecca Dewey Chapter at rebecca.deweyto@gmail.com or the Three Oaks Township Library. — STAFF REPORTS

CLASSIFIED ADS

Please submit your classified ad via email at classifieds@newbuffalotimes.com. New Buffalo Times can now accept online payments with a credit card or paypal. Go to our website, www.newbuffalotimes.com, and submit $14 per week for a classified ad of up to 160 characters. Deadline is Friday 5PM before the following week’s publication.

FOR RENT NEW BUFFALO RETAIL

US 12 high-visibility rental & pop-up spaces next to popular yoga studio. Great parking. 700-2,000 SF. Call to view/rates @ 312-259-4011.

NEW BUFFALO

Rent Year Round in New Buffalo. 1 or 2 bedroom apartments starting at $800 per month.

Quiet living—no pets. For more information call 269-469-1364.

HELP WANTED LOVE WORKING OUTDOORS AND IN THE TREES?

Awesome, outdoor, low covid exposure, summer work. C&A Arborists, your local tree care professionals, are looking for help!! Drivers license required, CDL preferred. Please call 269-756-2571, mail jamietreephilosophy@gmail.com.

FULL TIME COOK POSITION IN LA PORTE

1 Year Experience. Call Oak Woods Manor for more details. 219-362-6600.

SEEKING AN

FOR SMALL OFFICE

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Must be proficient in Microsoft Office. Quickbooks knowledge a plus. Full-Time position. Office is located in New Buffalo, MI. For an interview, call 708-917-0055.

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS EXPERIENCE PREFERRED

Carpentry drywall flooring tile setting windows doors and decking. Must be 18 years or older with valid drivers license. Heavy lifting involved. 219-808-1329. johnrtaylor1953@gmail.com.

SERVICES

FISH FOR STOCKING

Most Varieties Pond and Lakes.

Laggis Fish Farm

269-628-2056 Days 269-624-6215 Evenings.

ELDERLY CARE NEEDED?

Compassionate help available to care for your loved ones. Experienced and Dependable. Call Diane 219-344-2265.

8 kids a day are accidentally killed or injured by FAMILY FIRE.

FAMILY FIRE is a shooting involving an improperly stored gun, often found in the home.

ENDFAMILYFIRE.org

NOTICE TO POETS

The Poetry Board of the Village of Three Oaks is seeking submissions of original poetry for selection to appoint the official position of Poet Laureate for the Village of Three Oaks.

The Poet Laureate of Three Oaks, upon selection and appointment, will be awarded A $500 HONORARIUM AND WILL HOLD THE POSITION FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2023-2024.

In addition, there will be a Junior Poet Laureate for individuals 12 years of age or younger. They will receive a $250 honorarium.

Submissions of (3-5) original poems should be made to: Poetry Board PO Box 153 Three Oaks, MI 49128 OR email to info@harborarts.com

Submission deadline is March 31, 2023 and must include: name, address, e-mail address, & telephone number. The poetry board will reserve the right to publish the submitted works.

The Poet Laureate is a program of Harbor Arts.