April 16, 2020 by New Buffalo Times

m LIFE ON THE SANDY SHORES, THE FRUITFUL FARMLANDS AND THE MAGNIFICENT VINEYARDS

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 16, volume 79

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Thursday, April 16, 2020

Two resolutions, project agreement approved at New Buffalo Township meeting PAGE 3 Phase One of Red Arrow Highway/Union Pier Improvement Project to commence this week PAGE 4 New Buffalo school board approves amended senior graduation requirements PAGE 7 Berrien County calls for volunteers, donations to fight COVID-19 PAGE 8

Berrien County officials working to ‘slow the transmission’ of COVID-19 PAGE 10 New Buffalo casino revenue losses expected to be minimal PAGE 16

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BEACH A REFUGE FOR THE STAY AT HOME WEARY — PAGE 16 — PHOTO OF THE NEW BUFFALO BEACH BY STAN MADDUX

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

Two resolutions, project agreement approved at New Buffalo Township meeting

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the New Buffalo Township Board of Trustees approved two resolutions for two projects, as well as a road agreement with the Berrien County Road Department as part of the upcoming major Union Pier/Red Arrow Highway Corridor Improvement Project, at a special remote meeting via Zoom Tuesday, April 7. According to the agreement, a road diet of Red Arrow Highway, including “1200 feet of full reconstruct near the intersection with Union Pier Road, which will reduce from four to three lanes” as well as “TWCLTL (two way center left turn lane), curb and gutter, sidewalk, nonmotorized path, and streetscaping elements” are all part of the work that is to be completed with the project. Outside of the “limits for reconstruct will be a mill and overlay with a trench” and will include widening for “3R shoulders and reduction from four lanes to three.” The estimated township cost for the project is $750,416. The project is a joint one with Chikaming Township, whose estimated cost is $715,353. The road department’s cost is estimated at $2.3 million. Total estimated project costs are $3.8 million. The project is being managed by the road department. Board members also passed a resolution in support of the submission of a United States Department of Agriculture Rural Business Development Grant (USDARBDG) in the amount of

To say nothing, especially when speaking, is half the art of diplomacy. — Will Durant

Dyngus Day claimed by coronavirus

$100,000 “for services related to the plans at Harbor Country Drive (Exit One).” The grant is part of the township to “expanding on the Exit One ‘New Buffalo’ signage by implementing streetscape improvements, wayfinding and economic development strategies,” which is all a part of the next phase of the Exit One Corridor Improvement Plan. The resolution states that “total project cost is estimated at $100,000,” which will be funded through the grant. Board members also passed a resolution in support of the submission of a USDARBDG in the amount of $99,000 toward the Michigan portion of the Marquette Greenway, a nonmotorized 58-mile trail stretching from Chicago to New Buffalo. According to the resolution, the grant will be used toward the “development of a section of multi-use path from the Indiana state line to the City of New Buffalo in New Buffalo Township.” The township has already secured a financial commitment from The Pokagon Fund in the amount of $100,000 in matching funds. The township’s submission of the application “further resolves to make available its financial obligation of $100,000 local match of $199,000 total project cost.” At their March meeting, board members passed a resolution to submit an application for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant in the amount of $300,000 toward the trail portion.

It was Dyngus Day in LaPorte Monday, April 13, but there were no buses taking people to the bars or any of the other usual festivities here for the much celebrated polish holiday. About a dozen bars that are often jam packed is typical here on Dyngus Day, a holiday rooted centuries ago in Poland to mark the end of fasting during Lent. The Indiana governor’s order restricting bars to take out service to try and slow the spread of COVID-19 brought down the curtain this year on, perhaps, the busiest day for tavern owners in LaPorte for the past 33 years. Howie Hunsley, owner of Dick’s Bar at 912 Lincolnway, kept the spirit of the holiday flickering by serving the traditional kluski noodles over mashed potatoes and kielbasa sausage with sauerkraut to a limited number of takeout customers. “It’s really sad for all of the bars involved. It’s a great day to meet and greet people and everybody is stuck at home,” he said. “It’s a big disappointment for sure,” said Chantel West, a bartender at the Burger Bar and Grill at 821 E. Lincolnway. Without a celebration, West said there were no cabbage rolls or other polish specialty items being offered as usual. Just regular menu items like burgers and pork sandwiches were provided curbside and for delivery. Both establishments reported a significant drop in business since the ban on indoor service went into effect a month ago. “We’re definitely ready to open back up, that’s for sure,” West said. Royal Excursion buses paid for by the tavern owners annually were reserved to take Dyngus Day participants to each of the dozen bars on this year’s route. Given the circumstances, Hunsley said the charter bus service refunded the money. He said there has been talk of having a Dyngus Day-type celebration, with buses rolling sometime in the fall, as long as things return to normal then. “The bars that were involved would really enjoy something like that. It would be a good shot in the arm and help get everybody back on track,” Hunsley said. — STAN MADDUX

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO CITY COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DDA) MEETING Meets on the 2nd Thursday May, September, and November at 8AM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS Meets on the first 1st Tuesday Quarterly at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Phase One of Red Arrow Highway/ Union Pier Improvement Project to commence this week

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the Chikaming Township Board of Trustees approved a road agreement with the Berrien County Road Department with regards to the upcoming Union Pier/Red Arrow Highway Corridor Improvement Project at their first virtual meeting via Zoom Thursday, April 9. Dave Bunte, Chikaming Township supervisor, said the first phase of the project is scheduled to begin Monday, April 20, and will involve the main sewer portion of the project, which will shut down a section of Red Arrow Highway at Townline Road and Union Pier Road until just before Memorial Day. The second phase of the project is on schedule to begin after the week of the Fourth of July. The Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority will be installing a new sanitary sewer along Red Arrow Highway between Union Pier Road and Berrien Street. The Sewer Authority will also be replacing existing sanitary sewer in Townline Avenue between Greenwood Avenue and Red Arrow Highway. The work is being completed in advance of the planned road and streetscape improvements scheduled to begin in July. The intersection of Union Pier Road and Red Arrow Highway will be closed starting April 20 and will remain closed until Memorial Day weekend. Temporary closures of Red Arrow Highway at Community Hall Road and Berrien Street will also be required. The detour route is Krueger Road to

Lakeside Road to Warren Woods Road. The estimated township cost for the project is $715,353. The project is a joint one with New Buffalo Township, whose estimated cost is $715,353. The road department’s cost is estimated at $2.3 million. Total estimated project costs are $3.8 million. To date, the township has secured a United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development Grant in the amount of $70,000 and is going to be approving a $100,000 grant from The Pokagon Fund. Last month, board members also approved Bunte applying for a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development grant in the amount of $99,000 to assist in the township’s contribution toward the major project. Board members approved to commit to a loan from the sewer department at 2% interest over eight years with twice annual payments to help the township get the project paid off “fairly quickly,” Bunte said. More information can be found about the project on websites dedicated to the project from Prein&Newhof and Wightman and Associates, which can be found on the Chikaming Township website. Board members also approved an updated 2020 Road Department Agreement with regards to the township’s 2020 road plan. The road plan was approved in February. The budget for road improvements now includes matching funds from the road department in the amount of $55,779, bringing the subtotal from $636,551 to $580,772.

If you are an upright journalist, nothing will happen to you. — Rodrigo Duterte

TCF Center Alternate Care Facility construction complete

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Detroit District, announced last week that construction is complete at Michigan’s first Alternate Care Facility at TCF Center in Detroit ad that the facility began accepting patients April 10. According to a USACE press release, the TCF Center Alternate Care Facility is one of the first in the nation to be turned over to the state. Construction included triage area, patient support services such as showers and toilets, staff changing areas and administrative space, a command center and pharmacy. The 350,000 square foot conversion of the convention center into a medical facility with 970 bed spaces across two floors for COVID-19 patients took nine days. “I’m proud that the team was able to complete this mission and get help to the doctors and nurses on the front lines so quickly,” said Lt. Col. Gregory Turner, commander, USACE, Detroit District, in the press release. “With this facility coming on line as supplies and staff pour into Michigan, I really expect that the TCF Center will be a beacon of hope for Detroit and the nation.” The work was performed at an exceptional pace as the design required a manifold system that put copper pipes in the ceiling to deliver oxygen into 600 patient bed spaces in Hall C of the TCF Center. Both Halls C and E were converted into a negative pressure area essentially creating a vacuum in the space that will exhaust any possible airborne contamination. USACE, District Detroit, Alternate Care Facility Team now pivots resources and focus to Novi, Michigan’s Suburban Collection Showplace, as it works to convert the convention center into an Alternate Care Facility with 1,100 beds. Construction of that facility is expected to be completed by April 20. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

COVID-19 illness cluster identified at Benton Harbor skilled nursing facility

he Berrien County Health Department and Spectrum Health Lakeland are working to investigate a cluster of COVID-19 illness at Hallmark Living Benton Harbor, a skilled nursing facility in Benton Harbor, Michigan. According to a joint press release with the Berrien County Health Department, Spectrum Health Lakeland and County of Berrien, as of Monday, April 13, four employees and four residents have tested positive for COVID-19. Three of the residents who tested positive and had been terminally ill prior to COVID-19 diagnosis have died. The employees who have tested positive for COVID-19 are isolating at home and are no longer having contact with any of the facility residents. The facility residents who have tested positive for COVID-19 are being isolated in their rooms and all group activities have been canceled at this time. All residents and employees are being monitored for COVID-19 symptoms. The Hallmark Living Center has been working closely with the Berrien County Health Department to ensure residents and staff are

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safe by following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines. Berrien County Health Department will continue to monitor this group of positive cases, as well as provide needed personal protective equipment and infection control guidance needed by the facility. The Hallmark Living Center is implementing all recommended outbreak mitigation strategies to protect their residents and employees from COVID-19: • Taking temperatures on all residents and staff twice a day; • Shutting down all communal spaces and residents are quarantined to their rooms; • Prohibiting all visitors to the facility; • Enhancing hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment for staff; • Enhanced cleaning and disinfection of the facility. “We have known that COVID-19 is present in our community, but this cluster of illnesses and loss of life at a facility serving some of our most vulnerable in our population is a sobering reminder that our community must continue to be vigilant with our actions to keep this virus from spreading. In addition to continuing mitigation strategies in the community,

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our department will continue to address the needs of our vulnerable populations, including those who live in congregate settings like long-term care facilities,” Nikki Britten, health officer at the Berrien County Health Department, said. The Berrien County Health Department and Spectrum Health Lakeland continue to provide personal protective equipment supplementary support, staff education, and infection prevention technical assistance to long term care facilities and nursing homes across the county to ensure that these high-risk settings have what they need to adequately prevent and mitigate any potential clusters of COVID-19, as well as other illness. As of Monday afternoon, there have been 105 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Berrien County and five deaths due to the virus. BCHD continues to perform contact tracing for all identified COVID-19 positive individuals in Berrien County, resulting in more than 1,500 contacts made at this time. For updated information regarding COVID-19 in Berrien County, visit www.bchdmi.org/covid19, or www. spectrumhealthlakeland.org/covi. — STAFF REPORTS

Bar by night

Barney’s limits occupancy to 40 customers at a time

Playground closed Reminders to stay physically distant

Barriers have been put up between cashiers and customers at Barney’s, and several other stores

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

ARENA

LaLumiere invited to National Tourney; later cancelled due to coronavirus

sports

BY STAN MADDUX

he LaLumiere High School boys’ basketball team, which has had three losses this season, appeared on the brink of not being invited to this year’s national tournament. Not only was the team invited but LaLumiere wound up being the fifth seed out of the eight teams selected for the elite tournament. Unfortunately, the Geico Nationals in New York City was later cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak. Head coach Pat Holmes said the decision was disappointing especially for his seniors hoping to make up for last year’s tournament loss in the finals but he understands priority lies with the health and safety of the public. Holmes said receiving a tournament bid, though, provided some consolation to his players, who won the rest of their games during the second half of the season to achieve their goal. The team, which has just a handful of returning players from last year’s squad, made the type of progress some analysts didn’t expect at the beginning of the season. “A lot of people didn’t give them a fighting at the start. They dropped at a couple of games at mid-season and it seemed they were on the outside looking in but they persevered. They stuck together in some difficult games in difficult settings. I’m extremely proud yet disappointed,” Holmes said. This year’s team, which is loaded with sophomores and juniors, was anchored by seniors Wendell Green, Jr. and Jaden Ivey. Green is committed to play next season at Eastern Kentucky University while Ivey signed on to play at Purdue University. The tournament scheduled the first week in April was postponed when the invitation was received in late March. The decision to cancel it came later. “I feel really bad for our seniors but they’re mature young men. They got a good head on their shoulders and good family support. They’ll be stronger for it,” Holmes said.

I grew up around really tough-nosed guys so that’s all I know. — Tony Ferguson

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

s I write this, the most unconventional Easter of my life is coming to an end. I certainly hope that everyone did the right thing and adhered to the restrictions placed upon us by our leaders due to the pandemic and celebrated Easter or Passover at home. It appears as if the number of cases of the coronavirus is beginning to plateau. If we continue to do the right thing, we can begin to return to normal in the not too distant future. A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about the great singer/songwriter John Prine. He was in critical condition and fighting for his life. Unfortunately, Mr. Prine passed last week. I shared my sadness on Facebook and was rewarded with a comment from my nephew, who thanked me for introducing Prine to him many years ago, saying that he’s a better person for it. That’s the kind of impact John Prine had on the people who were lucky enough to hear this poet’s lyrics. Rest in peace, sir. Your songs will continue to inspire us. A few weeks ago, I listed my top 10 sports songs. In looking over the list, I realized that I had made a big omission. Christine Lavin was a young folksinger when I first heard her in the 1980s. The song that really made me listen to her was “Ballad of A Ballgame.” Some 35 years later, that song remains one of my favorites. Over a month ago, the NBA was the first professional league to suspend their season and every league soon followed suit. While there are no games being played on the field, there are still a lot of

things going on off the field and behind the scenes. The NFL will hold their draft next week and the Bears still have a few holes to fill. The prognosticators are all over the place as to which position the Bears need to address; however, I feel offensive line, defensive backfield and wide receiver should be at the top of their list. The Bears are without a first round pick this year due to the Khalil Mack deal, but they have two second rounders. If the world returns to normal and the season is played, I look for big things from the Bears. Finally, it brings me great pleasure to be able to report positively about the Chicago Bulls. While I’m still a fan of John Paxson, the team really needed to make some changes off the court. Gone are Paxson and Forman. Newly arrived is Arturas Karnisovas as the new vice president of basketball operations. Karnisovas comes via Denver, where he helped build the Nuggets into a contender. He will hire the next general manager and probably their new coach. Hopefully, he can lead the Bulls back to the playoffs and eventually back to title contention. “Ballad of A Ballgame” begins like this: “Do you remember that song by Janis Ian? The one where she complains about not being chosen for the basketball team? I would have written about that but she did it first (Lavin then ends with a charming version of “Take Me Out to The Ballgame”)”. Give it a listen. Stay healthy. Don’t forget to smile. Peace, love, and happiness.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

CHALK BOARD scholastics

New Buffalo school board approves amended senior graduation requirements

embers of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education approved amended graduation requirements for the class of 2020 at their Monday, April 13, meeting, their second remote meeting via Zoom. Due to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signing an executive order April 2 suspending all face-to-face learning for K-12 schools for the remainder of the school year due to the global coronavirus pandemic, New Buffalo Area Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Leslie said that seniors are unable to complete their third trimester at New Buffalo High School. “Part of the executive order gives us a lot of latitude in terms of what we can forgive,” he said. Leslie said that typically, the school district’s requirements are “more stringent” than what the state requires in the Michigan Merit Curriculum. At New Buffalo students must have four credits in science and four in Social Studies to graduate; however, the Merit Curriculum only requires three of each. The adjustment of the graduation requirements will “mirror” the state’s and only require three credits in science and three in Social Studies, Leslie said. Leslie added that this year’s class did a “phenomenal job” on last spring’s MSTEP test in Social Studies and he can personally vouch

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

that they know that material. Leslie said they still were requiring seniors to complete essays on their required community service hours. He said they understood if some haven’t been able to complete all of their community service hours, as some wait until the last few weeks to do so but can’t, due to the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order. A number of students still need to finish math credits but Leslie said that the district “has an avenue for them to do that.” Only a handful of seniors still need to complete required coursework within the next seven weeks. “We have a plan in place for all seniors so that they’ll have the opportunity to finish everything they need to do before the end of the school year,” Leslie said. Leslie said that he “really wanted to do” an in-person graduation ceremony sometime this summer, although he doesn’t have a definite answer now. That day marked the first e-learning day for students and teachers in the school district. The previous Friday marked the fourweek mark of when Gov. Whitmer announced the first suspension of in-person learning in an executive order that was scheduled to end April 6. Leslie said that the district’s meal delivery program served 2,900 meals to students, of which 1,600 were served on Friday. Similar to the meal delivery

program, Leslie said that e-learning may have some “bumps” but that “everyone will be better May 1 than we are here on April 13.” Board members approved the New Buffalo Education Personnel Association Contract for 2020-2023. Calling it “very fair,” Leslie said that the contract includes a 2.5% raise for the next school year. Wages and benefits will have to be revisited next spring to see how the pandemic will impact the district’s revenue. Board members adopted a resolution suspending board policy allowing a bid opening Monday, April 20, to be conducted electronically instead of in person. On that day, bids from contractors for work on the elementary school entrance’s security upgrades project will be opened. The resolution will allow the bids to be opened remotely, as the “Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order, which has recently been extended through April 30 in Michigan, doesn’t allow it to be done in person. Leslie said that contractors will submit their bids through Skillman Corporation’s electronic vault and will get timestamped. No one will have access to the vault until the predetermined bid meeting and time. Leslie had a meeting with the district’s attorney and Skillman to ensure the process goes smoothly. Skillman received bids from around eight different contractors, Leslie said.

NEW BUFFALO ELEMENTARY PRESCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

he New Buffalo School District is closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school due to COVID-19. This being said, they still need to plan for the upcoming school year. If you believe that your child meets the age and residency requirement to attend New Buffalo Elementary, please contact the school by phone or email. Phone messages and emails are checked daily. Contact information is below. New Buffalo Area Schools Preschool/ Kindergarten programs are looking for students that would like to attend in September 2020. Children that will be four years old by September 1, 2020, and are residents of the New Buffalo School District are able to enroll for Preschool. This year, our Preschool program, The BISON Beginners, will offer a full day or half day program, whichever you choose. Children that are five years old by September 1, 2020, and are residents of the New Buffalo School District will be able to enroll for full day Kindergarten. All new enrollments will have to verify their residency. Please help prepare for the upcoming school year by letting them know that you would like your child to attend. When contacting them, please provide us with the following: • Child’s name • Date of Birth • Parent names • Address: Residential and mailing • Phone number(s) • Email address Please contact one of the following: Barbara Woerdehoff, Administrative Assistant at 269469-6060 or bwoerdehoff@nbas.org, or Renee Bowen, Student Services at 269-469-6060 or rbowen@nbas.org. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

WATER LEVELS TO REMAIN HIGH DURING SEASONAL RISE

he U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District has recently announced that Lakes Michigan, Huron, St. Clair and Erie set new monthly mean water level records for March 2020, which were previously set in 1986. According to a press release, all of the lakes are now in their period of seasonal rise and will continue to rise toward their peaks, which are projected to occur in the late spring or summer. March was fairly wet in the Great Lakes region, with precipitation near to above average across the region. During the spring, water levels on the Great Lakes are usually in a period of seasonal rise due to increased rainfall and runoff. Water levels are expected to rise toward their seasonal peaks over the coming months and will continue to be near or above record high water levels. Significant erosion continues in many locations as water levels remain extremely high. Strong storm systems and resulting large waves have led to substantial erosion along much of the Great Lakes coastline. “After a generally drier month of February, March brought a return to wetter conditions experienced across the Great Lakes basin,” said John Allis, chief of the Great Lakes Hydraulics and Hydrology Office, Detroit District, in the press release. “During this period of seasonal rise for the Great Lakes, near or above record high water levels will continue to cause impacts along the shoreline.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers urges

those impacted by the high-water levels in 2019 to prepare for similar or higher levels in 2020. The most recent six-month forecast of Great Lakes water levels still forecasts that water levels could peak very near last year’s record levels. The Detroit District monitors and forecasts Great Lakes’ water levels and provides the data and analysis on their website at www.lre.usace.army.mil. During response operations, Detroit District, Emergency Management Office conducts emergency operations to save lives and protect specific properties (public/ facilities or services), which includes providing technical support and direct support during flood operations. Assistance is supplemental to local and state efforts and normally at the request of the state’s governor or local municipality. In addition, citizens of Indiana and Michigan may decide to work on personal construction projects to alleviate erosion or flooding, which could potentially impact the nation’s rivers, streams, wetlands and other aquatic resources that may require a permit from the Corps of Engineers’ Regulatory Office. To find more information about Great Lakes high water, emergency management and the permit process, visit www.lre.usace.army.mil/about/great-lakeshigh-water, which includes information about how to protect property and investments along the coast and related Corps programs and authorities. — STAFF REPORTS

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Berrien County calls for volunteers, donations to fight COVID-19

rganizations in Berrien physical contact. Starting on Monday, County are putting the April 13, donations can be dropped call out for residents to off at the United Way of Southwest volunteer for or donate Michigan office at 2015 Lakeview towards the COVID-19 Avenue in St. Joseph, Michigan, on a response efforts. Mondays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., and The United Way of Southwest Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. g Michigan is looking for volunteers Those who are able to contribute a who are willing and able to help in a financially to the cause can visit s variety of ways during the ongoing www.southwestmichigancares.org a COVID-19 crisis. Volunteers may be for more information. They can text a needed to help with SWMICARES to 41444 p tasks such as food THE FOLLOWING o to donate from their distribution, cleaning, ITEMS ARE mobile device or send o ESPECIALLY NEEDED: laundry, and more. At b checks to: •C lothing: new, clean this time, volunteers Berrien Community socks and underwear would be “on-call,” g Foundation •S crubs, new or gently n meaning that they will Southwest Michigan used n only be contacted if a Cares Fund •N ew PPE/medical e specific need arises. supplies 2900 S. State Street, A Details regarding •N 95/surgical masks Ste 2E a dates, locations, etc. • I solation masks St. Joseph, MI 49085 c are not available at •H andmade masks Non-profit r •M asks with face this time but will be organizations seeking r shield/visor shared if and when f to benefit from the •F ace shields the need arises. T supplies, materials, • Goggles/safety Volunteers who are glasses and funds donated can f willing to sign up to be • Gloves apply for what they need i “on call” to help can • Thermometers through the United Way a sign up through the v •D isposable medical of Southwest Michigan United Way website. a gowns by emailing Amanda Donations are • Ponchos o Drew at amanda.drew@ C •N ew cleaning also solicited from uwsm.org. supplies residents who can Spectrum Health •B leach ipes u contribute supplies, •H and Sanitizer Lakeland is also still i materials, or funds •F ood Items accepting donations m to the organizations •S helf stable snacks a that will be used by fighting the virus. •S helf stable h Lakeland-operated Donations received microwaveable meals o facilities at 2550 through the •N ew hygiene e Meadowbrook Road UWSM will benefit items (travel size/ p in Benton Harbor, disposable) organizations and f • Soap Monday through facilities that serve e • Shampoo Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 vulnerable/at-risk • Toothbrushes p.m. A complete list populations who f • Toothpaste of supplies needed are unable to source p • Deodorant can be found at www. supplies on their own, u •F eminine care spectrumhealthlakeland. C and are still serving products org/covid19donations. r people in-person with •S having cream a — STAFF REPORTS the possibility of close • Razors

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

Berrien County officials react to extension of “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order

ast week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer formally extended the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order until Thursday, April 30, with a few important

additions. The Executive Order 2020-42 limits gatherings and travel and requires all workers who are not necessary to sustain or protect life to stay home. As a reminder, under this order, all public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring among persons not part of a single household is prohibited. The order also states that after April 10, travel between two residences is not permitted. Though you may leave the house to get groceries or needed supplies, the new order encourages people to limit the number of household members running errands to the maximum extent possible. As before, people may engage in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, running, cycling, kayaking, canoeing, or any other recreational activity, consistent with remaining at least six feet from people from outside a person’s household. The order clarifies, however, that travel for vacations or for any other purpose is prohibited. It also states that no advertising or renting of a short-term vacation property except as necessary to assist in housing a health care professional or volunteer aiding in the response to the COVID-19 crisis is allowed. While outdoor activity is permitted under this order, any outdoor activity, including boating, must be done in a manner consistent with social distancing, and individuals not part of a single household may not boat together. Getting outdoors for exercise and fresh air is encouraged, but it is crucial though that people maintain the six feet distance from people not from their household, especially when at public parks. “We want to keep our public parks open for people to enjoy, while maintaining proper social distancing. We are putting up additional signage at Silver Beach County Park and other county parks to remind people of the need to maintain a six-foot distance from others. If our

residents don’t comply with this order, we may have to close the parks, and that is not something we want to do,” Berrien County Parks Director Brian Bailey said in a joint press release from the Berrien County Health Department, Spectrum Health Lakeland and County of Berrien. A new section of the order imposes restrictions on stores in an effort to reduce crowds. Stores larger than 50,000 square feet must limit the number of people in the store at one time to no more than four customers for every 1,000 square feet of customer floor space; small stores less than 50,000 square feet must limit capacity to 25% of the total occupancy limits (including employees) under the current fire codes. To regulate entry, stores must establish lines with markings for patrons to enable them to stand at least six feet apart from one another while waiting. Large stores must also close areas of the store that are not essential, which includes carpeting, flooring, furniture, gardening centers, plant nurseries, or paint. Although not required to close off part of the store, smaller stores are also not allowed to sell these non-essential items. For the purposes of this order, critical infrastructure workers are those workers described by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in guidance on the COVID-19 response. This order does not adopt any subsequent guidance document by this same agency. “Law enforcement is doing an excellent job answering complaints and educating the public including businesses of the order, and encouraging compliance. While some of the orders have subtle nuances, law enforcement is taking the necessary approach interpreting the orders in a way that less in-person contact is so very critical. I completely endorse that approach and will support any such prosecutions,” Mike Sepic, county prosecutor, said in the press release. Residents who wish to report a violation to the executive orders can fill out an online tip form found at the Berrien County Sheriff’s website. — STAFF REPORTS

RESTRICTIONS CLEAR NOW ON USE OF VACATION RENTALS

revised stay at home order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer leaves no doubt that use of vacation rentals for leisure is prohibited as part of the strategy for slowing the spread of coronavirus. That’s according to New Buffalo Police Chief Rich Killips, whose officers have been responding to a variety of complaints about vacation rentals and other potential nonessential use and travel violations the past several weeks. Killips said use of vacation rentals for leisure even for just a single day is clearly not permitted under the governor’s recently amended order. “The orders are pretty clear. It’s essential travel only. Vacation is really not allowed until this is kind of done and over with,” he said. Killips said it’s perfectly fine to use vacation rentals for purposes like a business trip to people whose employment is deemed essential during the public health crisis or housing nurses that might be needed from elsewhere to eliminate a local shortage. Owners can also live in their vacation rentals but they can’t have a lot of people over unless the people actually live in the residence, he said. The same restrictions apply for any primary residence. “You can’t have a gathering of people of any amount, of any number if they’re not from the same house,” Killips said. Killips said complaints will be investigated and decided on a case by case basis due to the possibility

that the use and travel purposes at each location could meet the terms of the restrictions. Charges were sought last month at one vacation rental north of U.S 12 east of Whittaker Street for violating the governor’s original stay at home order, he said. About 50 people were at the home where a party was being thrown. Killips said a warning was not issued because of the violation being so flagrant. “The use was such a gross violation of the order we chose to seek charges on a person,” he said. Moving forward with a request for charges on any matter is up to the Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office to decide. Killips said the amended order is clear because it specifically refers to vacation travel as prohibited. The previous order banned “nonessential trips,” which leaves more room for interpretation, he said. City Manager David Richards said about 300 of the 1,800 single family homes in New Buffalo are registered as short-term rentals. Under Michigan law, violating the stay at home order can bring up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Disciplinary action could also be sought against a license to practice business, MDHHS said. “Violators’ attitude and willingness to comply or lack of it will play some part in determining what the penalty will be,” Richards said. — STAN MADDUX

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10 THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

“S

lowing the transmission” of the novel coronavirus in Berrien County remains the main goal of the Berrien County Health Department, Nicki Britten, Berrien County Health Department health officer, said in an online news conference via Facebook Wednesday, April 8. “Our goal here and what we are all doing in this is collectively together working to save lives we want to slow and even stop the transmission of COVID-19, resulting in any new infections to possibly zero, so that gene of transmission is broken,” she said. As of Monday afternoon, Berrien County was reporting 105 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 53 recoveries and five deaths. Michigan was reporting 25,635 confirmed cases and 1,602 deaths. Britten said that the department is working to serve the county’s 155,000 residents by keeping them safe – with regards to COVID-19 and the health department’s other essential services. Britten explained “contact tracing,” which involves a team of nurses making contact with every confirmed case as well as everyone whom they’ve had close contact with “during a period where they might have been infectious.” Following up with secondary contacts allows them to self-isolate and quarantine for 14 days to “stop the train of transmission.” Plans to set up facilities to allow for the homeless and those who live transient lifestyles and may not be able to isolate at home are in the works. “We are in this together – when we have a neighbor who becomes ill, it impacts all of us,” Britten said.

Berrien County officials working to ‘slow the transmission’ of COVID-19 BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Britten added that the confirmed case amount represents just “a small portion of COVID-19 activity in our community.” “Those confirmed cases resulted in our nurses having contacts with over 1200 (1500 as of Monday, April 13) that have been inadvertently touched by those confirmed cases,” she said.

as recommended by the CDC, wearing a face mask in public could all help slow the spread of coronavirus. Dr. Loren B. Hamel, Spectrum Health Lakeland president, concurred that there’s more “COVID-19 in the community than we’ve been able to test” for so protecting oneself from transmission is important.

they can turn them around in one to two hours. Patients in the hospital are required to wear masks. Visitor restrictions have also been put in place with few exceptions, such as if a patient is having a baby and wants a visitor or if a child wants a parent present. All non-urgent elective cases at the hospital have also been

Chuck Heit, Nikki Britten, and Dr. Loren Hammel conduct an online news conference

Britten said that some have also been able to manage their symptoms at home without the need for hospitalization, making the confirmed case count more up in the air. “People should assume risk at any type of interpersonal close contact and that transmission could happen,” she said. Staying six feet away from those not in your household, washing your hands frequently, not touching your face and,

amel said that the county is still in short supply of COVID-19 tests. Those who experience symptoms should contact the health department or their doctors to ensure they qualify for a test.

As of last Wednesday, Hamel said the hospital was able to turn those tests around in about 24 hours; however, if they receive reagents sometime this week, then

cancelled for at least a few more weeks. Hamel said the hospital also intends to have 78 additional hospital beds, 40 of which will be used for ICU patients, although he hopes the beds won’t be needed. Last Wednesday, Hamel reported that cases that have tested positive through Lakeland’s facilities were from Benton Harbor, St. Joe, Berrien Springs and Coloma. Hamel added that there was

an “extra risk burden with our friends in Benton Harbor.” “Data around the country is suggesting African American people are suffering a higher disease burden and higher mortality risk,” he said. Chuck Heit, Berrien County undersheriff, said that local law agencies have been continuing to educate and warn individuals who don’t comply with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Safe, Stay Home” Executive Order. A number of citations and cease and desists have been issued to businesses not complying with the order; however, Heit said that businesses have complied with the order once they’ve been approached. Under the executive order, individuals are allowed to spend time outdoors as long as they maintain a six feet distance from others who aren’t in their household. Heit said that Madeline Bertrand Park has closed due to “social distancing guidelines of the golf course, including its disc golf course.” Other municipal parks have closed due to their playgrounds and basketball courts. Heit said that Silver Beach County remains open but its playground has closed. The park may be forced to close if people don’t adhere to social distancing guidelines, however. Anyone with further questions on the executive order should contact the Berrien County COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-8155485 or Hamel believes that the county is “going to peak a little slower and a little later” with cases, although how much slower is hard to predict. “We don’t have any evidence we’re flattening it here yet, so we have to remain diligent,” he said.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020 11

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Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan stepping up to the plate of serving seniors during COVID-19

eniors are terrified to step outside right now. Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Linda Strohl, Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan Executive Director, said that seniors don’t want to take the chance of stepping outdoors due to being in the high-risk group of contracting COVID-19. “I had one lady who said she hadn’t opened her door for three weeks – I said, if it’s a nice day outside, you can go outside on your porch,” she said. To prevent asymptomatic individuals from potentially spreading the virus to their loved ones, family members haven’t been visiting the seniors in their families. Strohl said that those who go out and get certain basic essential items, such as toiletries, for people on their meal route from the grocery store have also had a hard time going out due to virus fears. The result is a very isolating experience for seniors everywhere. That’s where Operation COVID Cheer steps in. Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan is encouraging those within the community – young and old – to write cards with encouraging messages to seniors. The cards will be distributed by volunteers to seniors who are on their respective meal routes. Those sending cards are encouraged to send messages wishing them well (religious messages aren’t encouraged). Cards can be mailed to the following address: Operation COVID Cheer, Attn: Linda

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Strohl, Senior Nutrition Services, 1708 Colfax Ave. Benton Harbor, MI 49022. Strohl would like to remind everyone that Meals on Wheels provides not just nutrition to seniors but also essential human contact. “We know that meal delivery is a real high point of their (the seniors’) day,” she said. Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan is also partnering with Berrien Community Foundation to put together personal care kits and emergency meals to be delivered to seniors. The emergency meals are in addition to the hot meals that seniors receive every day and include nonperishable items, such as soups, tuna, crackers, cereal, fruit juice and items to make stew. (Strohl added that items such as cheese crackers and breakfast bars will be a special treat for those on their meal routes.) Personal care kits will include various toiletries, since seniors can’t venture out to the store and may not have anyone who can to do it for them at this time. Strohl said everyone is currently scrambling to assemble to packages. “Our goal is to do 28 days, seven-day delivery (a seven-day supply of three meals per bag),” she said of the packages. Several local organizations and businesses have also been helping with the cause. According to the Facebook page, last week, the organization received shelf stable foods from Martin Supermarket of

Stevensville for the more than 400 shelf stable emergency meals need to make the sevenday supply. Casey’s New Buffalo also donated 20 premade meals of macaroni and cheese, Brussel sprouts, and bread pudding. The Women’s Service League in St. Joe also helped shop for food.

s for meal distribution, Strohl said that meals are continuing to be delivered on schedule and at the same rate as pre-pandemic levels, and that she’s even received 120 referrals for people needing more meals. Volunteers wear masks and gloves while out on their meal delivery routes. Meals are often left at the door or, in cases where the resident is immobile, volunteers enter through the door and leave the meal on a table inside of the house (volunteers are alerted to who needs to have their meals delivered in this manner). The office for Meals on Wheels, which is located in Benton Harbor, is also continually sanitized. “We’re trying to keep seniors safe – and fed,” Strohl said. Also known as Senior Nutrition Services, Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan is a 501 (c)3 organization that has been providing healthy meals for seniors in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties since 1988. For more information, visit www. snsmeals.org or the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ mealsonwheelsofswmichigan.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020 15

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

William “Tony” Behler

1948-2020

illiam “Tony” Behler, Jr., age 71, of Three Oaks, died peacefully, April 8, 2020. He was born September 19, 1948, in Three Oaks, Michigan, the youngest of four children of William and Mary Behler, Sr. Tony served honorably in the US Army and was awarded the Purple Heart and several military commendations. Tony will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his son Daniel (Dana) Behler of Hobart, Indiana; two sisters, Lois Behler Allwood and Billie Jean Behler, both of Three Oaks. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, William A. Behler, III, and one sister, Margo Behler. The family will observe a private graveside service with Military Honors in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Three Oaks, where Mr. Behler will be laid to rest beside his family. Arrangements have been

Charles Howard Krone

1952-2020

harles Howard Krone, age 67, of Three Oaks, died peacefully, Thursday morning, April 9, 2020, in the comfort of his family’s presence. He was born November 7, 1952, in Kansas City, Missouri, the only child of Howard and June Krone. He married Karen Jankowski July 31, 1989 in New Buffalo, Michigan. Chuck was Superman (his wife called him “Clark” and best friend). He was known as Pops by his children and children’s friends. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, friend, and mentor. Chuck always put other people’s need ahead of his own. If someone needed something all they had

OBITUARIES to do was let him know. Chuck always tried to do what was right and was always helping people and animals. Chuck served honorably in the US Army. He was known for his cooking, both at restaurants and at family gatherings. He served his community for over fifteen years delivering newspapers for various publishers. Chuck’s granddaughter remembers him as her “Dad” who loved her, helped her with her homework, as well as anything she needed help with and could fix anything. Even after his life on earth ended, Chuck continued to give generously to his community by donating tissue to Gift of Life. Chuck will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife of over thirty years, Karen JankowskiKrone of Three Oaks; one daughter, Heidi Friedburg of Benton Harbor; one son, Ryan (Amy) Friedburg of Benton Harbor; his Golden Retriever, Olivia; seven grandchildren, Emily Shreve, Natalie Shreve, Noah Jones, Kylee Alexander, Delilah Alexander, Cedar Friedburg, Riverlyn Friedburg; one brother-in-law, Duane (Martha) Jankowski of Yakima, Washington; two sisters-in-law, Donna (Gerald) Briggs of Baroda, Judith (Paul) Pedzinski of Three Oaks, and cousins, LuAnne (Doug) Tabbert of Hillsdale, Pete Roberson. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-inlaw, Mark Jankowski. The family will observe a

private remembrance. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks, Michigan, 49128. Please share a memory or a message online at www. wagnercares.com.

Geraldine Theresa Vavra

1927-2020

eraldine Theresa Vavra, 93, of Three Oaks, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2020, peacefully at home. Geraldine was born February 1, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, to John F and Clara Dorothy (Damptz) Pionke. She married Richard George Vavra on April 3, 1948 and he preceded her in death on June 3, 2008. Geraldine cherished her family. She enjoyed every opportunity to see her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great

granddaughter and many nieces and nephews . She had a family reunion a few years back which gave her the chance to see most of her extended family. She grew up in the city, but learned to enjoy farm living in Southwest Michigan. She is survived by her sister, Rosemary (Pionke) Druffel, five children, Donna (Richard) Vavra-Musser, Mary Vavra, Irene (John) Vavra Sinner, Andrew (Gloria) Vavra and Carol Vavra as well as eight grandchildren, David Vavra, Kate Vavra-Musser, Michael Bowen, Kevin Keen, Stuart Vavra, Sarah Mooney, Hannah Vavra and Alex Keen; four great grandchildren, Tyler Vavra, Abigail Vavra, Freya Mooney and Rowan Mooney and one great great granddaughter, LillaMai Vavra Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Emily Vavra, brothers, Edmond Pionke, John Pionke, James Pionke and Richard Pionke; and sisters, Helen Pionke, Clara Pionke, Frances (Pionke) Lesser, Lorraine (Pionke) Kehoe, Laverne (Pionke) Badini Geraldine will be laid to rest next to her husband, Richard Vavra. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date in Pine Grove Cemetery, New Buffalo, Michigan Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128. Please share a message or memory online at www.wagnercares.com.

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16 THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

NEW BUFFALO CASINO REVENUE LOSSES EXPECTED TO BE MINIMAL

U Beach a refuge for the stay at home weary

BY STAN MADDUX

he city of New Buffalo has no plans to close its beach, a refuge now for people from a wide area weary of staying home during the coronavirus

outbreak. Erika Kelderhouse of Valparaiso said she and her two children, Brayden, 5, and Maddie, 3, love the beach regardless of the circumstances. But, feeling a bit isolated, she said they were also eager just to be amongst others at a safe distance. “I’m ready for us to get back to normal,” she said. Jennifer Ward of Chicago took advantage of the beach house she and her husband own in this quaint southwest Michigan community to venture out and get somewhat reacquainted with society. Her sons, Brooks, 7, and James, 10, even took a dip in the still very cold water and made sand castles. “There’s a few people but enough space that we can maintain our six feet of separation,” she said. A lot of people have also been coming during hours when they would normally be working if not for the nationwide lock down. Some find pleasure just from staying in their vehicles in the beach parking lot to look at the water or catch a glimpse of bicyclists, fishermen and seagulls.

Tina Sellenberg, a traveling preacher from South Bend, said one of her reasons for coming was to reach out and help others cope with their wide range of emotions brought on by the crisis. Sellenberg advised people at a distance they were comfortable with to go about their lives trusting and staying focused on the positive. “Coronavirus is nothing compared to the fear and panic the enemy is throwing on people. Stop it. Don’t listen to it,” she said. Michigan City, under an executive order Tuesday, April 7, from mayor Duane Parry, closed its beach at Washington Park. Parry said he was concerned about the risk of the virus spreading from people coming to the lakefront in larger numbers as they usually do when the weather starts warming up. New Buffalo City Manager David Richards said there’s been no talk of closing the beach, a major draw for a community relying heavily tourism. He also doesn’t expect a beach closing to happen unless there’s an order at some point by the governor. “We’re a small town. We want to remain as normal as possible and I got a mayor who’s sensitive to the needs of the community. It’s not been a topic of discussion,” Richards said.

nlike some communities with casinos, the impact of Four Winds Casino’s closure from coronavirus is not expected to have much of a financial impact on the city of New Buffalo. City Manager David Richards said casino proceeds collected by the city based on a percentage of slot machine revenue total about $225,000 a year. He said this year’s draw based on collections from 2019 has already been established. Any reduction in casino funds because of the shutdown to help slow the spread of COVID-19 will be reflected in city’s take for 2021. “I believe that we already got our check,” Richards said. The city of New Buffalo and other local governments such as New Buffalo Township, Chikaming Township, the village of Three Oaks and Three Oaks Township split 2% of the yearly slot machine proceeds from Four Winds Casino. The revenue sharing is a good will offering from the owners of Four Winds, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, which operates as a sovereign nation because of their federal tribal status. The tribe is not obligated to share any of its casino proceeds unlike private operators such Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City. Indiana casinos are closed statewide under orders by the governor to help try and slow the spread of coronavirus. Michigan City, which collects about $10 million annually in casino proceeds, is operating under a spending freeze ordered by the mayor recently to stretch current revenue supplies.

LaPorte County government, which receives a similar amount of proceeds from Blue Chip, has indefinitely pushed back the start of $22 million in upgrades to the Michigan City courthouse due to casino revenue drying up for now and concern about the impact of unemployment on upcoming property tax collections. Richards said the impact on local property tax collections will hinge on the length of the nationwide lockdown. He said the city has about $800,000 in reserve, an amount equivalent to two months of operating expenses. Richards said he’s staying optimistic about the city’s ability to weather the coronavirus storm. “I’m a positive guy and I certainly have no inside information but they can’t keep us all at home. Sooner or later we got to go back to work and I think by summer we’ll all be back to work and able to pay our bills, which in this case includes taxes,” he said. Richard also said there are no plans to stop or delay any projects approved previously for the current fiscal year budget. Those projects include completing the over $600,000 restoration of the Whittaker Street bridge, which was mostly finished last year. Richards said the work still left to do is minor and includes adding sealant and cosmetic work underneath the bridge deck. The bridge restoration was paid for with proceeds from a bond issue approved by voters in 2016. Funds left over from the bond issue will be used to pay for the remaining bridge work, he said.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020 17

HOROSCOPE APRIL 16-22, 2020

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19 You will be able to see the value of situations before others do, giving you the upper hand in negotiations. The only problem is people are not going to be motivated to back you if they cannot comprehend the expenses.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22 Your home life could undergo some restructuring this week. Chances are you are going to find yourself acting as the go between or mediator. You just may prove to be the guiding force that can bring harmony, understanding, and acceptance to family members now.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21 Trust those little strange feelings you get this week. A little cautiousness could go a long way now. If you feel rushed or pushed into making definitive choices, perhaps give yourself twenty-four hours before committing now.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20 Certain intimate relationships could be making you uneasy, now. You are battling yourself over the small details, and the expectations that you perceive people have. You may not be aware of the fact that you are not being totally forthcoming.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22 Your thoughts could be a little kerfuffled and sporadic, this week. Be sure to take your time writing things down, or making lists before heading out to tackle projects. There is an element of the forgetful professor operating here. You may forget important tools if you don’t make a plan first.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19 Anything that centers around sharing, inclusive, and mutually beneficial will draw you in now. Friends can bring that creative spark needed to enliven any projects that centers around the home or garden. Don’t shy away from inviting people over to help you tackle chores.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21 Unusual happenings with friends could impact your job this week. Be careful not to put yourself in a position that mixes business with pleasure or collides two opposing worlds. It would be best to keep social acquaintances far away from intimate relationships and work situations.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 You will be very lucky financially this week. Outstanding debts will be resolved or paid, and you will feel very relieved that you didn’t have to make a fuss in order to be reimbursed. The important things is to speak up in a way that validates the good work people produce.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18 There are some strong parental forces felt this week. A friend may decide to step into an authoritative position or try to take charge of one of your personal projects. If you want the help, you will be relieved but if you are more into doing things on your own, you will feel intruded upon.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22 Reinvigorating are key words for the week. Rather than focus on new projects, focus on catching up on existing work. Don’t put off old commitments to accommodate new ventures. Once you tie up lose ends, you can begin new projects without distractions or added stress.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21 Be prepared to see an old love interest this week. You may be surprised at the feelings you have been keeping hidden in the darker recesses of your heart for them. You will start things anew and forge a deeper bond, but there are some unusual topics that need discussion first.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20 Be sure to do your homework. You may feel like rushing into unusual money making schemes because they are so original and fresh, but do some investigating first. If there is something of value here you will see it only after doing some digging.

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