February 25, 2021 by New Buffalo Times

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 8, volume 80

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Thursday, February 25, 2021

Grand Beach Village Council approves taking legal action regarding Public Safety Special Assessment District PAGE 5 Red Arrow Highway Harbert Road Improvements Project to commence this summer PAGE 6 Lady Bison topple Titans at the buzzer PAGE 9 Members of New Buffalo school board discuss board vacancy PAGE 10

Taking the plunge for a good cause at Polar Plunge 2021PAGE 12

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La Porte eyes bridge for pedestrians and bicyclists PAGE 19

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

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New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

ETHICS SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISM MICHIGAN PRESS ASSOCIATION MEMBER PROPRIETOR NEW BUFFALO TIMES, INC. EDITOR NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE EDITORIAL BOARD CREATIVE DIRECTOR JOE DURK REPORTERS AND CONTRIBUTING WRITERS THERESE DONNELLY FRANCESCA SAGALA LAWRENCE VON EBELER KURT MARGGRAF ALEXANDER FATOUROS SOPHIA ROSE FATOUROS STAN MADDUX GAIL ISAACSON KRISTIN E. FATOUROS NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE NEW BUFFALO TIMES POLITICS GUESTS PROOFING FRANCESCA SAGALA BROADCAST/ADVERTISING JANINE ADAMSKI (630) 370-0820 OR JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM SUGGESTIONS, CRITICISM, IDEAS MEDIA@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM ADVERTISING MEDIA@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM CLASSIFIED ADS

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NEW BUFFALO TIMES distribution: Milda’s Corner Market • Customs Imports Sawyer Garden Center • The Whistle Stop David’s Delicatessen • Grand Variety Barney’s • Knoll Bros. • Stray Dog Infusco Coffee Roasters Black Currant Bakehouse The Marina Grand • Redamak’s Outpost Sports • Big C Lumber Between Casey’s and Nancy’s Sawyer Hardware • The Harbor Grand Froehlics . Three Oaks Journeyman Distillery . Three Oaks The Acorn Theater . Three Oaks The Lakeside Inn For the most convenient location, you can subscribe to get the NEW BUFFALO TIMES in your mailbox or inbox. Please email us for E-TIMES, info@newbuffalotimes.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

Outdoor seating approved for new restaurant

BY STAN MADDUX

new cocktail lounge and shrubbery and other plants toward restaurant with outdoor the front to provide a unique setting dining is expected to open for the outdoor dining customers, in New Buffalo before according to the site plan. summer. Smock said there will also be The New Buffalo Planning lighting contained to the deck and Commission Feb. 17 approved a lights closer to the ground to highlight request for an outdoor patio with the vegetation. customer seating at Hummingbird The outdoor seating area will also Lounge at 9 S. Barton Street. contain screening designed to keep The NBPC also endorsed the site noise from bothering neighboring plan for the business residents. going in at the former Sage Bistro. The New Buffalo Applications for a Planning Commission special use permit Feb. 17 approved a request for an and approval of the outdoor patio with site plan were filed customer seating at illiam Lenga, owner by Ben Smock and Hummingbird Lounge of a home at 28 S. his partners in the at 9 S. Barton Street. Barton Street, said acquisition of the he didn’t expect property and liquor any problems with noise from license from the previous owners. the restaurant judging by lack of Smock said the structure being disruption from outdoor seating at renovated for use as a cocktail lounge Beer Church also close to his property. and restaurant should be open in the “It’s amazing how quiet it is,” he spring. said. Under the plans, outdoor seating Smock said plans for outdoor will be provided on a 19 x 19 patio area seating were driven by the restrictions surrounded by a garden with music on indoor dining in Michigan and playing softly in the background. throughout much of the nation since Smock said the base of the flooring the beginning of the COVID-19 for the patio consist of crushed pandemic. concrete. Planning Commission Chairman There will also be a 6-foot-high Paul Billingslea after pointing out the wood privacy fence at the rear of the number of vacant properties in the city property and a 3-foot-tall see-through said he welcomed making good use of fence along the front of the lot. The garden will include passion fruit the facility again “It would be nice to see something and/or Black Eyed Susan vines along happen there,” he said. the back of the property along with

LASATA LITERACY CHALLENGE BEGINS MARCH 1; WINNER TO SERVE AS JUNIOR SENATOR FOR A DAY

tate Sen. Kim LaSata has announced a new literacy challenge for Southwest Michigan students in conjunction with March is Reading Month. “The literacy challenge is a great way to engage with students and keep them focused on reading,” said LaSata, R-Bainbridge Township. “I look forward to all of the submissions and to hosting one lucky winner at the Capitol as a junior senator for a day.” All K-8 students residing in Berrien, Cass and St. Joseph counties are encouraged to participate by submitting titles of books they read between March 1 and 31. The student who reads the most books will be invited to be a junior senator for a day at the state Capitol with LaSata. The top three students who read the most books will be presented with a framed award. Students may enter the challenge at https://www. statesenatorkimlasata.com/literacychallenge/ or by sending an email to senklasata@senate.michigan.gov with the student’s name, grade, school, parent or guardian name and phone number, and the titles of books read during the month. LaSata also announced she is scheduled to read to students during March is Reading Month. “As a former teacher, I always look forward to March is Reading Month and to reading with students,” LaSata said. — STAFF REPORTS

There is some self-interest behind every friendship. There is no friendship without self-interests. This is a bitter truth. — Chanakya

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO MAYOR JOHN HUMPHREY CITY COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DDA) MEETING To Be Determined CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS To Be Determined NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Two arrests made after stolen vehicle pursuit from Illinois to Berrien County

ultiple agencies were to deploy stop sticks on the interstate involved in the arrest near the 30-mile marker; however, the of two people who suspect was able to swerve and avoid fled in a stolen vehicle the stops sticks. from Illinois and into The pursuit continued northbound Berrien County Michigan Friday, Feb. on Interstate 96 from Interstate 94 19. and into Van Buren County at speed in According to a Chikaming Township excess of 100 mph. Police Department press release, The Covert Police Department at approximately 3:15 p.m. Friday, attempted to deploy stop sticks north the Berrien County Dispatch issued bound on Interstate 96 near the 14-mile an area be on the lookout (BOL) for marker. The suspect vehicle swerved to a stolen 2020 avoid the stop sticks. According to a Chikaming Chevy Equinox After losing control Township Police driving eastbound of the vehicle, the Department press release, on Interstate 94 driver drove into the at approximately 3:15 from the Indiana/ median. The vehicle p.m. Friday, the Berrien Michigan state line. became stuck in County Dispatch issued The vehicle was the large amount of an area be on the lookout reported stolen snow and became (BOL) for a stolen 2020 out of Springfield, inoperable. Chevy Equinox driving Illinois, and fled eastbound on Interstate from officers in he driver, 94 from the Indiana/ Indiana. who Michigan state line. The “A short time was a vehicle was reported later, Sgt. Brandon 26-yearstolen out of Springfield, old male, Jones with the Illinois, and fled from and a passenger, Chikaming officers in Indiana. who was a 25-yearTownship Police old female, both Department located from Springfield, Illinois, were taken the suspect vehicle driving eastbound into custody without incident. The on Interstate 94 near the 11.4-mile male driver was arrested and lodged marker. Sgt. Jones attempted to in the Berrien County Jail. The female conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle,” passenger was released from custody. the press release states. Assisting with this incident were The vehicle fled from officers, the following agencies: Baroda which began a vehicle pursuit. The Lake Township Police Department, vehicle continued to flee from officers Bridgman Police Department, eastbound on the interstate, with Michigan State Police, Covert Police speeds excess of 100 mph, the press Department, Cover Fire Department, release states. and South Have Police Department. The Michigan State Police attempted

Percent of positive COVID-19 tests continued to be on decline last week; vaccinations efforts ramp up

Like you, I know people at war to maintain power and influence. — Dino

The percent positivity was around 5% over the course of last week. The previous week, it was reported to be around 5.6%. In total, as of Monday morning, the Berrien County Health Department reported 10,520 confirmed cases and 211 confirmed deaths. There have also been 9,592 30-day recoveries. On Saturday, Feb. 20, the health department had distributed a total of 12,517 vaccines to date, with 2,487 being distributed over the course of last week. As of Feb. 20, a total of 26,450 vaccine doses (which includes second doses) had been administered in Berrien County. According to the newsletter, Berrien County has the sixth highest rate of vaccination for those over the age of 75 in the state. Nearly 50% of those over 75 in Berrien County have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The health department is currently vaccinating those in Phase 1A, specific groups in Phase 1B, and adults over the age of 65. Those who are eligible can complete the survey available via Lakeland MyChart located under “questionnaires” in the My Record section. If you do not have a Lakeland MyChart account call 800.LAKELAND 800-525-3526. The Berrien County Health Department also invites those who are eligible to visit www. surveymonkey.com/r/vaccinewaitlist. Meijer Pharmacy: The pre-registration process can also be completed online through Meijer Pharmacy at www.clinic. meijer.com. The Rite Aid COVID-19 vaccine scheduler is available at www. riteaid.com. — FRANCESCA SAGALA

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

Grand Beach Village Council approves taking legal action regarding Public Safety Special Assessment District

embers of the Grand Beach Village Council approved a motion to proceed with legal action against New Buffalo Township with regards to the township moving forward with a 20year Public Safety Special Assessment District at their Wednesday, Feb. 17, meeting. Members of the New Buffalo Township Board unanimously approved the Public Safety Special Assessment District after a lengthy public hearing (which consisted of around 180 participants) at their monthly meeting Tuesday, Feb. 16. The Special Assessment levy of 2.1 mills is estimated to generate $1,297,954 in the first year of the District. Township supervisor Michelle Heit said that the district will replace the township’s two public safety millages beginning next winter. A special assessment will ensure that the township has funds to pay off the 20-year bond that was taken out for the new public safety building that’s currently being constructed on U.S. Highway 12 while still continuing its “current level of emergency service.” The special assessment will pay for Medic 1 Ambulance service, the township fire department, its contracted service for 24/7 police coverage that’s provided by the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office and the bond. Village council president Deborah Lindley said the resolution was voted on unanimously and without comment. “I don’t question the township’s ability to tax by millages that were voted on by a fair public vote…I don’t feel they have the ability to make resolutions for a Home Rule Village to do what we consider an unfair assessment,” she said. Councilmember Steve Slater said he’s 100% in favor of the policemen and firemen and EMTs who handle the

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ambulances; however, he thinks it’s unfair that the village is “double dipped for our police.” The Grand Beach/Michiana Police Department (the two villages combined services in November 2019) is responsible for patrolling both villages and is supported by taxpayers in both villages. Councilmember Blake O’Halloran said that he wondered if the township has the right to raise taxes for residents of a village through a special assessment. “We’re talking five people clearly making a decision because they have a need in their fiscal budget but - do they have right to do that?” he said. He added if there’re “millages that only have 200 votes then something’s wrong.” It was noted by resident Ed Trainor at the public hearings that the township’s second public safety millage that was passed in May 2017 received only 118 yes votes out of around 200 people. Councilmember Paul Leonard said that the issue was “fundamental.” “To me, the overreach attempt by the township to assess lands that are lying outside or within the jurisdictional boundaries of Grand Beach is an unlawful usurpation of the powers of Grand Beach as a chartered village endowed with the powers of Home Rule under the Michigan Constitution and state laws,” he said. Councilmember Jim Bracewell said the numerous participants “made their statements and were then ignored” by the township board. “I think it’s very good to get the issue at least on the table and have it evaluated…we have to put our chips on the table and see what happens.” Councilmembers approved that the village join in a lawsuit against the Army Corps of Engineers that’s being spearheaded by the New Buffalo Shoreline Alliance (NBSA) as a plaintiff and that the village provides the necessary information for moving it

forward. Slater, who’s the commissioner for Parks and Beaches, distributed a handout to councilmembers that explained that NBSA, a non-forprofit, is planning to file a Federal lawsuit against the United States of America. The lawsuit alleges the U.S. Government, through the Army Corps of Engineers, “designed and built a recreational harbor in New Buffalo that caused substantial harm to lakefront property owners south of the harbor for approximately 2 to 3 miles, from the harbor through Grand Beach.” Slater said that the NBSA has had many meeting with the Army Corps but it “has become evident that the Corps is not going to take any real responsibility for damages that have been done south of the harbor.” “It is completely evident the harbor is stopping the flow of sand down to the south side of New Buffalo and Grand Beach…It has cost millions and millions of dollars for residents and the village to armor up based on both lack of sand and high water but primarily lack of sand,” Slater said, adding that there’s also been a loss of property value.

he NBSA has partnered with a law firm out of Chicago, which has arrived at a fixed fee arrangement capping all legal costs at $400,000. The lawsuit is a “takings” claim based on the Fifth Amendment (a person may not be deprived of property by the government without due process of law and fair compensation). According to the handout, “only shoreline property owners have the right and standing to sue for the ‘takings’ claim.” Slater said the village has a “dog in the fight,” as hundreds of dollars have been spent the pumphouse and other village access points. If the lawsuit is won, then the proceeds from it will go into a Trust

Fund (not for profit) administered by representatives of the associations/ communities that have been impacted and will only be used for the purpose of sand nourishment and breakwaters. Councilmembers also approved contributing $5,000, which could come from Capital Projects Parks and Beaches fund, to legal fees. Brian Hake of Kruggel Lawton gave an audit report regarding the village’s budget for the fiscal year that ended Oct. 31, 2020. The General Fund had a positive year and was up $55,000. Total governmental funds increased $272,000, which was less than last year although Kruggel said that last year was an exception because there was a large volume of contributions that came in. Currently, Kruggel said the village is sitting at a net liability with the pension plan. He added that he knows the village is working to keep that plan “sufficiently funded.” Both the water and golfs funds saw increases, as the Water Fund was up about $98,000 and the Golf Fund increased about $61,000. Councilmembers approved changes the time of monthly council meetings from 7:30 to 7 p.m. Councilmembers approved replacing the furnace in the pumphouse for an amount not to exceed $4,000. This year’s golf cart parking fees and golf fees were approved. O’Halloran, pro shop commissioner, said that while golf fees aren’t going up, golf cart parking stickers will have a $5 increase for residents. Parking fees for nonresidents always start as being higher than for residents, so O’Halloran won’t be raising their fees at this time. Councilmembers approved accepting a special exception from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) for 51005 Lake Park Drive and 51007 Lake Park Drive, where revetment work is being done.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

Red Arrow Highway Harbert Road Improvements Project to commence this summer BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

major construction project that will be managed by the Berrien County Road Department will commence in Harbert this

summer. Wightman & Associates will serve as the project’s consultant. The reconstruction of different sections of the 38-year-old Red Arrow Highway began a few years ago. The Road Department just finished the reconstruction of the highway in the Union Pier/Red Arrow Highway corridor last fall. “For the last three to four years, we’ve been addressing different sections of Red Arrow until it’s completed,” Kevin Stack, county engineer at the Road Department, said during a virtual presentation of the project Tuesday, Feb. 16. An influx of year-long residents and tourists, combined with safety issues, also propelled the project forward. “Trying to get foot movement across a four-lane highway - trying to get these pedestrians from point A to B safely but yet allowing everyday traffic of the public to move efficiently, that’s one of the main questions we go through,” Stack said. Project highlights include the highway switching from four lanes to three, having a 10-foot-wide nonmotorized path on the lakeside of Red Arrow Highway (the side where the Harbert Swedish Bakery is located) and realigning skewed intersections. The project will solely deal with the reconstruction of the road as well as the placement of curb and gutter, drainage and the nonmotorized path. Chikaming Township is working on a separate contract with Wightman to do streetscape elements in 2022 and 2023. The four lanes on Red Arrow Highway will begin to taper to three on a stretch of highway for cars that

are approaching the Harbert Antique Mall from Union Pier. Stack said the highway will become a three-lane section in the vicinity of the mall, by Main Drive. From there, there will be a northbound lane on one side and a southbound lane on the other,

occur between Harbert and Prairie roads, where there will be a nonmotorized path. Everything, from the asphalt to the concrete, in this area will be removed and then replaced. The vertical curve of the road will be adjusted to “ensure the drainage flows

be paved for a path in the future. A pedestrian activated crosswalk, where pedestrians can press a button that will activate strobe lights in all directions of the highway, may be located in the vicinity of Harbert Road (Stack said he’s waiting for MDOT review). Further down, a crosswalk may also be located near the entrance to Harbert Community Park.

S A current view of the railroad side of Harbert Road and Red Arrow Highway intersection (seen from the lake side)

with a center turning lane. The currently large intersection at Harbert Road/Red Arrow will become 90 degrees with the road, which will prevent cars from coming off the highway at 55 miles per hour and continuing onto Harbert Road, he said. The intersection of Prairie Road and Red Arrow will also “tighten up,” as there will be the placement of curb and gutter there with drainage. This will prevent vehicles from coming off Red Arrow at 35 to 45 miles an hour and will force vehicles to slow down and make a safe turn in case of pedestrians crossing. The “reconstruction zone” will

there,” Stack said. The path south of this area will not be paved but it will be graded (for drainage reasons), resulting in a 10-foot-wide grassy area for the nonmotorized path to be placed there in the future. The lakeside lane (the furthest outside lane if you’re heading toward Union Pier) will be removed to prepare for the future nonmotorized path. The nonmotorized path will stretch just down to the Harbert Community Park; however, the Road Department will continue grading for it past the park to “get the water to flow.” Similar to south of Harbert Road, there will be a 10-foot-wide grassy plain, which will

tack said Old M-11 will be turned out to Red Arrow to make it a perpendicular intersection with the highway so “you can clearly see both directions when you come up to the intersection.” The nearby River Valley Senior Center will also be provided with a new driveway. The intersection of Sawyer Road/ Holloway Drive/Red Arrow Highway will remain the same, although the lines that are currently there will disappear. The lanes will gradually return to being four lanes instead of three as cars approach the intersection. The Harbert Drain Petition Project, which will involve new storm infrastructure along Red Arrow Highway near Prairie Road, by the Drain Commission will hopefully commence this spring before the Road Department’s project. The Road Department is working on the final plans for the reconstruction project to give to MDOT by late March. The construction itself should begin after the Fourth of July, with all paving and concrete work having an anticipated completion date by the fall. Stack said traffic will be maintained just like the Union Pier/Red Arrow Highway Corridor Redevelopment Project, with one lane always being open in each direction (Stack said he doesn’t anticipate closing the highway unless there’s “unforeseen” circumstances).

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

LETTERS TO THE NEW BUFFALO TIMES:

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LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

FUTURE ISSUES...

n February 16th, immediately after over 2 hours of public comments against the SAD and/or comments advocating for a PAUSE and full transparency and more information, the New Buffalo Township board strangely voted unanimously to approve the tax roll without having any board discussion let alone a discussion about pausing to consider the legal fallout of this action. There were over 180 people in attendance. It was obvious that the township board had made their decision prior to the meeting and no input was going to give them pause. Both Michiana and Grand Beach Village council presidents said during the Zoom meeting that their villages will be taking legal action if the township board voted to proceed. Shockingly, New Buffalo Township’s attorney stated that the township board went “above and beyond” notifying the public. On the contrary, it is hard to understand the lengths the township board has gone and continues to go to hide this from and to confuse taxpayers. It was never discussed in any public meeting the entire year before sending out the first Public Hearing notice in late December. Then the public hearing notices were sent by bulk, non-forwardable mail (not first class mail like all other tax bills are sent). Since the notice went out, the board has been answering questions with partial truths and misinformation seemingly designed to cause confusion. Then they stonewalled the public hearing attendees by not really answering any questions. Something is just not right with all of this. A PAUSE needs to be placed on this process and the township board needs to provide full disclosure and allow for fulsome study of options. Otherwise, the

legal costs are going to add up quickly. The key issues.... The New Buffalo Township board passed this Special Assessment in the cloak of darkness and continues to under-inform and intentionally mislead taxpayers. It’s a 20 year commitment. Half of the annual money collected goes to pay for the NBT/Berrien County Sheriff policing contract. It gives the NBT board the ability to raise our taxes further simply by a vote of the board for the 20 year length of the Special Assessment. It gives up $149,000 per year that New Buffalo Township would have otherwise received from the Casino (almost $3,000,000 over the 20 years). Individually for all NBT taxpayers, this increases our taxes by $33/$100,000 value plus it locks in the previous tax of $140/$100,000 which was passed in 2017 with 118 “yes” votes (of about 2,000 registered voters) on a lowly publicized month of May election day. The aggregate amount to be collected from Grand Beach & Michiana taxpayers for just the policing component is between $200,000 to $300,000 per year to pay for a police force which does not patrol either village. No other township in Michigan has succeeded in including sovereign villages in Special Assessment Districts. Neither Grand Beach nor Michiana will be the first without a protracted legal fight which will cost all township taxpayers regardless of the outcome. If Grand Beach & Michiana prevail, the taxpayers of New Buffalo Township in unincorporated areas will have to make up the difference and thus will see even further increases in your taxes. —E D TRAINOR, etrainor111@gmail.com New Buffalo Highschool Class of 1978

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

SPORTS

Bison stampede too much for mustangs

BY STAN MADDUX

he New Buffalo High School boys’ basketball team moved swiftly up and down the home court and stormed to a 79 to 60 victory over River Valley Wednesday, Feb. 16. The game looked evenly matched, with the Bison trailing by two points until junior Anthony Lijewski drove in for a layup half way through the first quarter. The Bison (2-0) went ahead to stay after junior Kayden Parmley sank a shot from beyond the three-point arch. The Mustangs trailing 21-16 going into the second quarter fell behind by 10 points after a flurry of buckets by Parmley and one by senior Sean Gordon driving the lane. River Valley, though, quickly pulled to within six points with help from a score off Bison turnover and trailed 40-31 at halftime. The Bison, who were even more aggressive on both sides of the court to start the third quarter, jumped out to a 20-point lead on a flurry of buckets from Parmley, junior Jeremiah Mitchell and senior Mark Shaw. Several of the Bison points during the surge were from lay-ups by Parmley, who used his speed from half court for lay-ups after stealing the ball and

grabbing a long pass from one of his teammates. New Buffalo went up by as much as 24 points. However, the Mustangs, powered on offense by senior Lennon Lange and sloppy play from the Bison for a stretch, pulled to within 13 points. The Bison locked up the victory late in the fame when Lijewski, who was off a cross court pass from Gordon, sank a three-point shot and Mitchell stole the ball for a lay-up. New Buffalo defeated Michigan Lutheran 89 to 54 in the first game of the COVID-19 delayed season Feb. 12.

ead coach Nate Tripp said it appears his players are taking to the run and gun style of play he’s encouraged to take advantage of their athletic ability and depth on the bench. “Our goal is to just force the tempo. We want teams to play our style of basketball. We don’t want to play other teams’ style of basketball. We got a long way to go and a lot to improve on but they’re making improvements,” he said. Parmley led all scorers with 27 points while Lijewski added 24 points. River Valley was led by Lange with 19 points and 15 points from Jayden McNabb.

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

emember Danny Carcillo? Carcillo played hockey on and off from 2011 until 2015 for the Chicago Blackhawks. Dan was not a great goal scorer or a particularly good hockey player. What he brought to his team was toughness and courage. Both of these attributes are admirable when displayed at the proper time. Unfortunately for Mr. Carcillo, he didn’t have an off switch. He totally earned the nickname he was given, “car bomb.” It seemed like all hell would break loose every time he took the ice. Sometimes it worked, but often it backfired. Carcillo led the league in penalty minutes in his rookie year in the NHL. He was fined or suspended 12 times in his nine-year career. He took part in countless fights. I guess he was a hockey goon, but he was much more than that. One of his final transgressions with the Blackhawks was prior to the 2015 playoffs. Daniel cross checked his opponent, from the rear, long after the whistle had blown, and that led to a $40,000 fine and a six-game suspension. The Blackhawks ended up winning the Stanley Cup that year and Carcillo didn’t even make an appearance, but his name was still engraved on the Cup. He was reckless, but his teammates thought enough of him to have him be included. Substance abuse and difficulties with alcohol were self-admitted problems during his playing days. One of his best friends on the Blackhawks was Steve Montador, who also suffered from substance abuse. They helped each other try to overcome their problems until Montador had to retire in 2012 after sustaining a concussion. They

remained friends until Montador unexpectedly passed away in 2015. His friend’s death started Daniel’s post-hockey career. He began to advocate for retired players and started the Chapter 5 Foundation, helping players suffering from post-concussion syndrome, depression and anxiety. Last week, I saw Daniel on television. He has gone from an out-of-control hockey player to the CEO of his own company, Wesana Health, a company that deals with traumatic brain injuries. He was very polished and spoke with knowledge and conviction about his company and their mission. I would have expected him to take the road less traveled with his treatment and he didn’t disappoint. Wesana uses psilocybin to treat their patients. For those who are unaware of the drug, it is a psychedelic, much like LSD. Some of the many benefits of psychedelics is that they can change your perception and induce a feeling of euphoria. I have a lot of respect for Mr. Carcillo. He is living in Chicago with his wife and three children. He took what he learned in the initial stages of his life and is using his knowledge to help others. If you’re feeling down because of the pandemic and/or the weather, remember that we can all come out of this stronger than before. If we have to change course, we will do so with a wealth of knowledge. Confucius said, “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” Be silly. Be honest. Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

Lady Bison topple Titans at the buzzer

T Lady Bison rebound from tough season opener

BY STAN MADDUX

he Lady Bison rebounded from a tough season opening loss on the basketball court with two decisive victories. The biggest challenge was from River Valley Saturday, Feb. 15, but New Buffalo tied at halftime and won, going away 51-38 at home. Senior Nadia Collins started the scoring for New Buffalo by hitting a short bank shot. The score was close early on until New Buffalo opened up a lead from senior Abby Vitale and junior Aaron James hitting short jump shots followed by quick buckets from senior Sophia DeOliveria. One of the scores from DeOliveria came by stealing the ball at midcourt and racing in for a lay-up. The Lady Bison led by eight points in the second quarter after a lay-up by sophomore Ava Mullen made possible by a nifty pass from DeOliveria, who responded by drilling a 12-foot baseline jumper. The Mustangs led by senior Hailey Hauch came roaring back to tie the score going into the third quarter. `Buckets from Collins, sophomore Kelsey Corkran and sophomore Jordan Bryk helped New Buffalo get out to a six point lead to start the fourth quarter.

The Mustangs pulled to within four points but never got closer after DeOliveria and Corkran hit back-to-back jump shots. New Buffalo with about 90 seconds left on the clock sealed the victory on a put back of an offensive rebound by Collins and bucket from Corkran off another flashy assist from DeOliveira. Collins, DeOliveira and Corkran accounted for 29 of the Lady Bison points. Hauch led all scorers with 16 points, including two buckets from beyond the three point arch. Three days later, New Buffalo (2-1) defeated Lawrence on the road 54 to 19. The victories proved to be a confidence booster for the Lady Bison after a 50 to 30 season opening loss to defending District 4 champions Michigan Lutheran. New Buffalo defeated the Titans last year during the regular season but were blown out by Michigan Lutheran for the district title. The two teams will meet again before a possible rematch in the district tournament. “Since it was our first game, we were still getting used to everything. We know how they can play and I feel we can beat them again,” Collins said.

BY STAN MADDUX

he Lady Bison came from behind to defeat Michigan Lutheran at the buzzer at home Monday, Feb. 22, in girls’ high school basketball. The Titans had a chance to go ahead at the free throw line with less than five seconds left on the clock but missed both shots. New Buffalo grabbed the rebound and called time out with 2.9 seconds left in the game to set up a play. Aaron James inbounded the ball to Ava Mullen at half court. Abby Vitale caught the pass from Mullen while streaking to the rim and sank a lay-up just before the clock ran out. The final score was 33 to 31 in the Berrien Cass St. Joseph Conference match-up. “it feels amazing and so surprising and shocking because it was such a battle the whole game. We were just fighting so much and we wanted it so bad. I just feel really good,” Vitale said. Vitale said team worked hard at practice for the rematch. “I knew that we could beat them,” said Nadia Collins. The Bison were defeated by the Titans by 20 points Feb. 11 and were blown out by Michigan Lutheran in last year’s district championship game. The Titans were without their best player, Jessi Jewell, who’s recovering from a sprained ankle. Michigan Lutheran ahead by as much as 10 points early in the fourth quarter led the entire way until Mullen drove in for a bucket to tie the score with less than three minutes on the clock. The Lady Bison were trailing by four-points when Mullen sank a three-point shot with less than a minute to play. New Buffalo tied the score again when a missed free throw by Collins was rebounded by Kelsey Corkran who was fouled and hit one of her free throw shots. Head Coach Scott Syme said his players came back from using their athletic ability to press the Titans harder on both sides of the court. Mullen and Sophia DeOliveria led the Lady Bison offensive attack with eight points and six points respectively.

Every day when I get on the floor I give it my all and play because you never know what tomorrow holds. — Russell Westbrook

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10 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

SCHOLASTICS

Members of New Buffalo school board discuss board vacancy

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the New vacant position until the Nov. 8, 2022, Buffalo Area Schools election. Board of Education Board members heard an update on are currently looking the elementary school from principal for another board Adam Bowen. member after the resignation of Roger This year, New Buffalo Elementary Lijewski. School has 255 students, 24 of whom At their Monday, Feb. 22, meeting, are Schools of Choice students and board secretary Lisa Werner read seven who are tuition. There are also Lijewski’s resignation letter dated 35.5 staff members, 14 of whom are Feb. 11, which stated that he was pre-K through fifth grade teachers. announcing his resignation “with Six people are on the custodial staff deepest regret” this year, all of whom effective that day. At their Monday, Feb. 22, “work diligently” to The letter stated meeting, board secretary keep the building that he’s not allowed Lisa Werner read safe and clean for to serve on both the Lijewski’s resignation students in the time school board (of letter dated Feb. 11, of coronavirus, which he’s been a which stated that he Bowen said. member since 2005) was announcing his Students have and the New Buffalo resignation “with deepest been staying in their regret” effective that day. City Council. cohorts by eating The letter stated that he’s “It was a hard breakfast in the not allowed to serve on decision, but I classrooms. Students both the school board (of feel that I’m more in kindergarten which he’s been a member needed on the city since 2005) and the New through second council now,” the Buffalo City Council. grade eat lunch in letter stated. the cafeteria while “I want to thank third through fifth grade students eat him for the many years of service in the classroom. he’s given to the district as a board This year, the school is offering fullmember,” board president Chuck Heit day pre-kindergarten, which currently said. has 24 students enrolled in it. Out Interested candidates have until of the 24 students, 22 are full-day March 1 to submit a letter of interest. students and two are half-day. Board members agreed that they The elementary school has debuted would likely hear from selected a brand-new secure entrance, which candidates at their March 8 meeting. The selected candidate will fill the is equipped with a buzzer system for

visitors and camera as well as doublesided doors where students exit at the end of the day. Bowen now has a new office at the front of the building. There’s also a sick bay, with a curtain for privacy. School resource officer Deputy Mike Troupe has an office with a one-way window. The school has been engaged in a three-year ELA (English Language Arts) alignment project. The third year has consisted of continuing to improve the reading and writing and “making it more efficient with time,” Bowen said. Bowen said delivering assessments to each grade level allows the staff to “measure how well we cover” the outlined standards. Common assessments are used to determine the effectiveness of teaching, ensuring that teachers are “on target” when the MSTEP arrives, and that different assessments let teachers know of the progress. Teachers input assessment weekly data into an electronic data wall for monthly discussion.

eachers use the assessment data to teach small group instruction. Bowen said either intervention or enrichment allows the teachers to “be able to meet student growth.” The school has a three-year commitment with PBIS – Positive Behavior Intervention. Students have been taught “common area expectations,” or what are the

expectations for how they should act in the hallway, cafeteria or playground. Bowen said one of his goals is to focus on student growth and achievement. Regarding NWEA student growth in math and reading, Bowen said a lot of students are performing at the 60th percentile or higher. He said this presents a unique problem, as the higher students are achieving, the harder it is “to beat that student growth.” Bowen said all of the data was from the fall and winter. Regarding student emotional learning (SEL)/trauma, Bowen said that students have been focusing on conflict strategies, coping skills and how to be a good citizen – “all the important things that make a wellrounded student.” Regarding the Bison Virtual Academy, Bowen said that there are 31 students currently enrolled in the academy and 20 students who will be returning for the third trimester. Board members Trish Newton said that the “decrease” is telling. “I think the decrease in the virtual is a testimonial of how parents feel safer sending their students back to school because I think everyone has done a great job to show how we’re keeping students and staff safe,” she said. At the end of the meeting, board members convened into Closed Session to consider the purchase of property.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 11

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12 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 Fireman Nick Peters is ready to take the plunge

Divers swam through the frigid waters to shore

Members of the New Buffalo Township Fire Department line up to take the plunge

Taking the plunge for a good cause at Polar Plunge 2021

ven though the crowd was slightly smaller this year, members of the New Buffalo Township Fire (and Ice) Department, the Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office Cold Case Division and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office were still able to make a splash for the purpose of making a difference in a child’s life during the virtual Polar Plunge Saturday, Feb. 20. As opposed to diving into a pool at Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville (which has been done for the last three years), the divers took the plunge into the frigid waters of the Galien River at The Pleasure Isle Marina in New Buffalo. Chuck Heit, undersheriff of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, said the water was actually warmer (34 degrees) than the temperature outside (just barely 20 degrees).

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Nonetheless, it was still quite the temperature contrast from the pool he dived into last year outside the brewery. “That was warmer,” he said. “One of the prosecutors was in there and he said, ‘A lot of things you do in life, you look back at it and say, that wasn’t so bad - this was worse,’” Julie Flick, who retired as lieutenant from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office last June but went back part time to help as evidence manager, said. Flick was head of the New Buffalo Township Patrol (the township contracts with the Sheriff’s Office for police services) when she retired last summer. Now, she manages The Pleasure Isle Marina, which was purchased by New Buffalo Township last December. The position is perfect for Flick, who’s a boater.

Members of the New Buffalo Township Fire Department swam through the frigid water to shore

“It’s the first event we’ve had at Pleasure Isle since the township purchased it and hopefully one of many community things we can do here,” she said.

ue to the ongoing pandemic, Flick said that there were restrictions on how many teams could participate. This year, she said there were about 17 participants. The number of guests allowed at the event, which wasn’t open to the public, was also limited. A drone flew overhead as each diver took the plunge, capturing every splash on video. “We’re glad we were to do something this year,” Flick said. One by one, members of the three teams took turns diving into the small patch of water, which had been cleared of ice after being frozen over for the

The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department watched out for the divers

past month. Members of the Berrien County Underwater Dive Team helped them into the water and stood in and near the water. As of Saturday, Heit said that, between the three teams, they’d raised over $10,000. Fundraising will continue through the end of the month. Funds will go toward Special Olympics Michigan, which “provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities,” according to its website. Heit added that the Polar Plunge was one of many events that falls under the Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run. The program consists of law enforcement officers and corrections personnel around the globe raising funds for over 20,000 athletes and as well as creating awareness for Special Olympics.

Undersheriff Chuck Heit takes the plunge into the Galien River

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 13

More outdoor seating planned for Beer Church

request for more outdoor seating at Beer Church has been approved by the New Buffalo Planning Commission. About 60 seats along with a small bar area would be contained in a 1,980 square foot elevated deck at the popular bar and grill on Whittaker Street near U.S. 12. Kyle Kuipers with Rockford Construction out of Grand Rapids said the elevated deck would reflect the character of the existing outdoor seating that features a stone fireplace.

BY STAN MADDUX

“It was designed to kind of continue that concept and that overall feel,” he said. Kuipers said the upper level would also contain a small roof to protect equipment at the bar from the elements and provide an area patrons can use for cover. John Lustina and Jane Simon in 2017 transformed what used to be Water’s Edge United Methodist Church into a brew pub with seating inside the 1861 structure for up to 35 guests. Outdoor seating added last year was in response to

the statewide indoor seating restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19 and proved to be popular enough particularly during summer weekends to expand. `Lustina said the extended outdoor seating would eliminate one or two existing parking spots. However, Lustina said he was more than willing to extend indefinitely its lease with the city for using the public parking lot across the street to handle overflow parking. The site plan for outdoor seating was unanimously

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approved in concept during a special New Buffalo Planning Commission meeting Wednesday, Feb. 16. Lustina and Simon must still obtain the blessing of the planning commission members on the actual plans for construction of the expanded outdoor seating area before proceeding with the work, officials said.

urrently, the construction drawings provide a single stairway for moving up and

down both floors. Kuipers said adding a second staircase for use by staff members only to help with traffic flow is a possibility. William Lenga, who owns a home next door at 28 S. Barton Street, expressed support for the expanded outdoor seating. He said there’s been no disruption to the neighborhood from Beer Church as he feared originally. “They’ve made a tremendous investment in this community. I can’t tell you what incredibly good neighbors they’ve been,” Lenga said.

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14 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 15

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16 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES Township website, www. newbuffalotownship.org

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP 2021 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet to examine and review the 2021 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, property exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials via Zoom on: Tuesday, March 2, 2021, 9:00 am Organizational Meeting Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday, March 16, 2021, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm and on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved.

MICHELLE HEIT, SUPERVISOR NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP SHALICE NORTHROP, ASSESSOR NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP New Buffalo Township Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days notice to New Buffalo Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact New Buffalo Township by writing or calling. JUDITH H. ZABICKI NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP CLERK 17425 RED ARROW HIGHWAY NEW BUFFALO, MI 49117 269.469.1011 X104

VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH REGULAR COUNCIL MEETINGS - TIME CHANGE

APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUESTED and may be made by calling the Township Hall at 269-469-1011, x101; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than noon on March 16, 2021.

The start time for all regular council meetings of the Village of Grand Beach, held on the third Wednesday of each month will change from 7:30 pm EST to 7:00 pm EST effective immediately.

Zoom details and link will be provided on the

MARY J. ROBERTSON CLERK-TREASURER

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

Inmate charged with murder after fatally stabbing correctional officer

correctional officer at Indiana State Prison in Michigan City was fatally stabbed. A second prison guard stabbed was last reported in serious

condition. Lt. Gene Lasco, 57, of La Porte died from stab wounds to the neck, chest and arms, said La Porte County Coroner Lynn Swanson. Swanson said whether Lasco was stabbed anywhere else on his body and how many times will be determined by an autopsy.

“It’s very unfortunate,” she said. The name of the other stabbing victim was not immediately released. According to Indiana State Police, both officers were stabbed by one inmate in a common area of the prison before 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tymetri Campbell, 38, was facing several preliminary charges including murder, police said. Campbell is serving a 130-year sentence for a triple murder in Indianapolis. — STAN MADDUX

Redamak’s opening for the season Thursday, April 1

n a press release from the Maroney’s and Team Redamak’s, it was announced that after careful consideration, Redamak’s will open for the 2021 season Thursday, April 1. (No, this is not an early April Fool’s Joke.) It will also be open on Easter Sunday. Spring hours will be Thursdays through Mondays from 12 to 9 p.m. (closed Tuesdays

and Wednesdays). The restaurant is hiring for both front and back of the house positions. Please visit the website to submit an application and to schedule your interview at www.redamaks.com/ jobs. “We are looking forward to seeing all of you! Thank you, be safe, and stay healthy!” the press release said. — STAFF REPORTS

Berrien County 2021 Spring Mom2Mom sale is scheduled for May

he Board of Directors of the Berrien County Youth Fair approved moving the Berrien County 2021 Spring Mom2Mom sale to an outdoor sale Saturday, May 15 (rain date set for May 16). This will be a one-day sale – set-up, shop, tear down. Set-up will begin at 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 15. Sale will open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. Outdoor spaces will be 15 feet of road frontage with approximately 30 feet of depth. Cost for an outdoor space at the spring sale is

New Buffalo Times

— SINCE 1942 —

$25. BCYF will provide one 8-foot table per outdoor space. Sellers will be able to bring an easy up canopy, tables, racks, etc. from home. Outdoor sale contracts are available on BCYF website and BCYF Facebook event. The 75th anniversary fair dates will be Aug. 16-21, 2021. If COVID 19 restrictions still remain through the summer months, BCYF will have an exhibitor showcase in August with a virtual auction. More details will follow. Please watch BCYF website at www. bcyf.org or BCYF Facebook page. — STAFF

REPORTS

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 17

HOR0SCOPE

FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 3, 2021 AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

The vibe this week will help you get control over your finances and implement a more stable environment for yourself and those around you. You are emotionally ready to say and do what needs to be said and done, in order to smooth out problems of who will pay for what.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

The vibe coming in this week will help you rise above the limitations or influences others have created for you. This is the time to move forward with your own ideas and follow your dreams or creative visions. Invest in yourself and put your energy into expanding beyond previous limitations.

The vibe coming in this week will help you engage in conversations you may have been putting off because you haven’t felt secure enough in the relationship to share or because you haven’t had a private space in which to open up. Now you do. Take this opportunity to clear the air.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

The stellar energy is shining in your health and human resource sector, giving you the opportunity to get the help you need and clean up messes created by bad habits. It’s important you pay attention to details but also think outside the box. Get inspired by the people around you.

The stellar energy is shining in your house of finances and luxury items, giving you the opportunity to get a good deal on any of your extravagant purchases and also, a time when you will see your wealth grow. It’s important you keep track of your receipts and paperwork.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

The stars may be creating a bit of a wander lust in you now, making you want to travel and experience new cultures. Even though you may not be free to move around as you wish, perhaps you can buy a map of the world and research areas of the world that are geologically active.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The stars may be creating a bit of a dissatisfaction or a feeling that the work you are doing is not bringing you happiness it once was. Even though you can’t walk away from commitments or change jobs, it doesn’t mean you can’t have more fun with the people you work with. Create that party atmosphere.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

The stellar energy is shining on your house of career, public image and the material world, giving you the opportunity to make /positive changes with your reputation or position. It’s important you make those personal level changes. So, there is nothing holding you back from advancing.

The cosmic energy is focused on your connections with others and in particular your financial connections. This is the time when you will see payments coming in that were previously held back or lost. Also, this is a good time to secure a loan or work with creditors to manage debt.

The cosmic energy is focusing in on your family, the people you live with or work closely with. Any problems or insecurities will surely surface now. Use this as an opportunity to face deeper issues that may have some darker emotions behind them. No regrets and no more sugar coating.

The stars may be creating a sense of dissatisfaction with your appearance or you may be experiencing an identity crisis of sorts this week. Guard against making drastic or permanent changes. Stick with things that are easy to change, like clothing or hair color.

The cosmic energy is boosting your intuitive powers and your ability to tune into the more spiritual side of life. This is a great time to deepen meditative practices or engage in activities that expand the mind, as well as the physical like yoga or dancing. Music can bring up powerful emotions, now.

To live and die in LA, it’s the only place for me, got to live here to know it ... — Tupac Shakur

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18 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

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eginning Monday, March 1, the New Buffalo Township Library will be offering service appointments. Services available by appointment will be library card pick up, faxing, laminating, copying printing, and library computer time. Appointments will be made for patrons who are 18 years and older. Patrons must have a current New Buffalo Township Library Card and must wear a mask for the whole time that they are in the building. Appointments start on the hour. An appointment will begin whether or not a patron is present. The appointments will be in half hour sessions. Library

C H EC K O U T O U R NE W LO C AT I O N IN SOUTH BEND

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computer time appointments are onehour sessions. Patrons may not sign up for more than one appointment at a time. Only two patrons are allowed in the building for services at one time. Patrons may not check out library items during their service appointment. Patrons must stay in the designated area for their appointment time. Once their appointed task is completed, patrons will need to leave the building. To schedule an appointment, please call the library at 269-469-2933. The library is located at 33 N. Thompson Street in New Buffalo. — STAFF REPORTS

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La Porte eyes bridge for pedestrians and bicyclists BY STAN MADDUX

aPorte officials want their city to better compete with New Buffalo and other trendy communities. An 800 foot long pedestrian bridge over the CSX tracks is among the upgrades pursued as part of LaPorte’s ongoing economic revitalization efforts. City planner Tom Casey said the bridge is part of a plan to create sort of a “huge park” by connecting happenings downtown with amenities at Clear Lake and a former industrial area being redeveloped beside to the 97acre body of water. Those areas are now separated by the tracks. Casey said a major driver for the project is providing what talented young people want

nowadays so they stay and relocate here. “They want the urban environment. They want the rural environment. They would like access to lakes, trails, their coffee, their music, their art and culture all in one spot,” he said. “They don’t want to get in their car and have to drive to New Buffalo to do that,” Casey said. The hard surface bridge would stretch above the tracks from Washington Street beside the old La Porte Gas and Electric buildings to Dunes Event Center at New Porte Landing. Casey said both long vacant structures erected in 1918 could serve a new purpose, like work spaces and a market for

artists. “It’ll create a really cool vibe in downtown LaPorte,” he said. Casey said the plan also includes a plaza at the southern foot of the bridge in a city owned parking lot at Lincolnway and Monroe Street. The plaza would feature plenty of greenspace along with seating and events, such as live entertainment. The half mile trail on the opposite side of the bridge would be extended around Clear Lake and connect to the existing Chessie Trail, which starts at Pine Lake. Chessie Trail would be stretched across the U.S. 35 overpass and east on Lincolnway to another lush greenspace planned. Offerings like fishing docks

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could be added to a boardwalk recently built at Clear Lake.

he bridge would also provide convenient pedestrian access to nearby Fox Park, which already includes a baseball field and amphitheater hosting live music at least twice a week during the summer. Casey said information about the city’s industrial beginnings could also be posted at different spots along the way. The projects hinge on acquiring grants or some other source of outside revenue. Casey said the trail and greenspace work costing roughly $3 million could happen this year depending on the availability of funds.

It might be a few more years for the bridge to go up because of the additional dollars involved and approval required from CSX railroad, he said. The improvements are contained in the “Heart of LaPorte” plan developed recently to better position the city for the future. “We got to find funding, but if we don’t have a plan we don’t know where we’re going,” said Mayor Tom Dermody. Casey said the improvements would resemble what’s been done in other areas built long ago primarily on manufacturing. “We’re basically learning from other communities that have been extremely successful by doing this,” he said.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021 21

OBITUARIES Darlene Ruth Frank

1940-2021

arlene Ruth Frank, 80, of Stevensville, died peacefully Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Her life began August 29, 1940 in Three Oaks, Michigan, the youngest of four children born to Walter and Annamay Layman. Darlene’s passions were her children and

grandchildren. She enjoyed getting together with family and friends, especially during the Christmas season. She enjoyed shopping for her loved ones to make any celebration exceptional. Darlene will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her son, Daniel (Michele) Kaiser of Stevensville; daughter in law, Vickie Kaiser of Stevensville; grandchildren, Casey (Matt) Ashton of Chicago, Illinois, Austin (Karlee Benner) Kaiser and Morgan Kaiser, both of Indianapolis, Indiana; stepsons, Larry and Jim Frank, both of Indianapolis, Indiana, Robbie Frank of South Bend, Indiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in

death by her parents; her first husband, Raymond Kaiser; her second husband, Lawrence Frank; her brother, Dale Layman; her sisters, Dorothy Versaw, Donnevie Perham; and her son, Gregory Kaiser. The family will observe a private remembrance. Darlene will be laid to rest with her husband, Lawrence, in Forest Lawn Cemetery. The family prefers contributions in Darlene’s memory be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, Illinois, 60601. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online at www. wagnercares.com.

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