July 9, 2020 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 28, volume 79

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Thursday, July 9, 2020

Gov. Whitmer signs executive order closing indoor service at bars throughout much of lower Michigan PAGE 4

Patrons enjoy curbside delivery at New Buffalo Township Library PAGE 7 New Buffalo school board approves employment of new middle school principal PAGE 8

SMOKE ON THE WATER

New Buffalo Farmers Market has first in-person market of the season PAGE 12

FIREWORKS SHOWER DOWN OVER PINE LAKE — PAGE 13 — PHOTO BY GREG AKE IN LAPORTE

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Campgrounds at state parks observing COVID-19 guidelines

BY STAN MADDUX

ampgrounds and other sources of recreation at state parks in Michigan open since June 22 are operating under COVID-19 restrictions. According to Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), a recreational passport is now required for entry into all state parks like Warren Woods State Park near Sawyer. The use of the passports to gain entry into the state parks when the amenities inside the parks were closed was suspended for three months to reduce face to face interactions to limit the spread of the virus. Many state park amenities like bathroom buildings, hand washing stations, playgrounds, fishing piers, viewing platforms, concessions along with picnic tables and shelters are also open. Drinking fountains at the state parks will remain closed until further notice. According to MDNR, visitors must wearing face coverings while inside indoor spaces like restrooms and shower buildings, contact stations and visitor centers or when outdoors whenever social distancing cannot

be maintained. Visitors are also asked to remain at least 6 feet from people not from their household in all locations, including enclosed spaces, campgrounds and day-use areas. MDNR is also encouraging visitors to bring their own gloves and disinfectant and whatever else they deem necessary to protect themselves while in the campgrounds and parks. Hard surfaces such as playground equipment, handrails, and tables are also being sanitized by staff members on a regular basis. According to MDNR, state park staff members are also cleaning restrooms and shower buildings several times a day under Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Overnight lodging facilities, including cabins, lodges and yurts at the state parks are also being thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each reservations holder checks out, MDNR said. Payment with debit and credit cards for services provided inside the state parks is also encouraged to decrease the exchange of money as another safety precaution against the virus.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO MAYOR LOU O’DONNELL IV 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

Gov. Whitmer signs executive order closing indoor service at bars throughout much of lower Michigan

GOVERNOR ALSO SIGNS BILLS ALLOWING COCKTAILS-TO-GO AT BARS AND RESTAURANTS

n Wednesday, July 1, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-143 closing indoor service at bars throughout most of lower Michigan to protect the progress Michigan has made against COVID-19. Regions 6 and 8, which include the Upper Peninsula and much of northern Michigan, are excluded from the order, and bars statewide can continue to serve outdoors. The governor also signed a package of bills allowing cocktails-to-go at bars and restaurants to help these businesses serve more Michiganders during this time. “We owe it to our front line heroes who have sacrificed so much during this crisis to do everything we can to slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of a resurgence like we are seeing in other states,” said Gov. Whitmer in a press release. “Following recent outbreaks tied to bars, I am taking this action today to slow the spread of the virus and keep people safe. If we want to be in a strong position to reopen schools for in-person classroom instruction this fall, then we need to take aggressive action right now to ensure we don’t wipe out all the progress we have made.” Over the past week, every region in Michigan has seen an uptick in new cases, and daily case counts now exceed 20 cases per million in the Grand Rapids, Lansing and Kalamazoo regions. Nearly 25% of diagnoses in June

were of people ages 20 to 29, up from roughly 16% in May. That shift aligns with national trends, and the evidence suggests that young people may be driving a new phase of the pandemic. As bars have reopened for indoor service across the country, some have been linked to a growing number of large outbreaks. In Michigan, for example, health officials in Ingham County have linked 107 confirmed COVID-19 cases to an outbreak in a single bar in East Lansing. Similar super-spreader events have been documented in bars in Florida, Louisiana, Texas and elsewhere. Bars are often crowded, indoors and poorly ventilated — all of which make it easy to spread COVID-19 from person to person. Bars also encourage mingling among groups and facilitate close contact over an extended period of time. They are noisy, requiring raised voices and allowing for more projection of viral droplets. And they serve alcohol, which reduces inhibitions and decreases compliance with mask use and physical distancing rules. “I urge all Michiganders to double down on mitigation tactics like wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, and washing hands, so we can get our trajectory headed in the right direction again,” said Gov. Whitmer. “If we open up our economy too quickly, the efforts of the last three months will be for nothing and we will have to go through this pain all over again and put our

economy, health and medical system at risk. Nobody wants to move backward. Everyone, please do your part, and let’s show the nation and the world how smart we are.” The governor’s order applies to establishments with on-premises retailer liquor licenses that earn more than 70% of their gross receipts from alcohol sales. That means that most brewpubs, distilleries, and vineyards can stay open indoors. Traditional bars, nightclubs, and strip clubs will have to end indoor service. On July 1, Gov. Whitmer also signed Senate Bill 942 and House Bills 5781 and 5811 into law, which allow bars and restaurants to sell cocktails-to-go and expand social districts to allow for more outdoor seating and areas for people to safely congregate while practicing physical distancing. “Bars will not have to close down completely, but may still offer outdoor seating and use creative methods like cocktails-to-go in hopes that we can bring our numbers down,” Gov. Whitmer said. “I am hopeful providing options for cocktails-to-go and expanded social districts will ensure these businesses can remain open and Michiganders can safely and responsibly enjoy their summer outdoors.” Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/ Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Gov. Whitmer releases MI Safe Schools Roadmap, directs school districts to develop return to school plans

ROADMAP INCLUDES GUIDANCE ON PPE, HYGIENE AND CLEANING PROTOCOLS, ATHLETICS AND MORE

n Tuesday, June 30, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap, a comprehensive document to help districts create local plans for inperson learning in the fall. According to a press release from the governor’s office, the Roadmap outlines a number of safety protocols for schools to implement in each phase of the governor’s MI Safe Start Plan. The governor also signed Executive Order 2020-142, which provides a structure to support all schools in Michigan as they plan for a return of PreK-12 education in the fall. “Our students, parents, and educators have made incredible sacrifices during our battle with COVID-19,” said Gov. Whitmer in the press release. “Thanks to our aggressive action against this virus, the teachers who have found creative ways to reach their students, and the heroes on the front lines, I am optimistic that we will return to in-person learning in the fall. The MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap will help provide schools with the guidance they need as they enact strict safety measures to continue protecting educators, students, and their families. I will continue working closely with the Return to Learn Advisory Council and experts in epidemiology and public health to ensure we get this right, but we also need more flexibility and financial support from the federal government. This crisis has had serious implications on our budget, and we need federal support if we’re going to get this right for our kids.” “The most important thing we can do as we prepare to reopen school buildings in the fall is closely examine the data and remain vigilant in our steps to fight this virus,” said MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “I will continue to work closely with Gov. Whitmer and the Return

to Learn Advisory Council to ensure we in classrooms, screening for symptoms, continue to put the health and safety athletics, and more. The Roadmap also of our students and educators first. We recognizes the impact COVID-19 has had will remain nimble to protect students, on students’ and educators’ metal health, educators, and their families.” and offers guidance on how schools can Executive Order 2020-142 requires address this issue. school districts to Gov. Whitmer “Our students, parents, adopt a COVID-19 will continue to use and educators have made Preparedness the MI Safe Start incredible sacrifices during and Response Plan as the highestour battle with COVID-19,” Plan laying out level governing said Gov. Whitmer in the how they will framework for press release. “Thanks to our protect students determining if and aggressive action against and educators when it is safe to this virus, the teachers who across the various resume in-person have found creative ways phases of the instruction. to reach their students, and Michigan Safe “All of us on the heroes on the front lines, Start Plan. The the Return to I am optimistic that we will MI Safe Schools Learn Advisory return to in-person learning in Return to School Council share a the fall. The MI Safe Schools Roadmap offers commitment to Return to School Roadmap will guidelines as to marrying science help provide schools with the the types of safety and evidence, guidance they need as they protocols that and practicality enact strict safety measures to will be required and local needs continue protecting educators, or recommended to ensure the students, and their families. I at each phase. In health and safety will continue working closely recognition that of our students with the Return to Learn these protocols and educators,” Advisory Council and experts will cost money, said Tonya Allen, in epidemiology and public the governor president and CEO health to ensure we get this also announced of The Skillman right, but we also need more that she was Foundation and flexibility and financial support chair of the Return allocating $256 from the federal government. million to support to Learn Advisory This crisis has had serious the districts in Council. “We are implementing their implications on our budget, proud to have and we need federal support if local plans as part a leader in the we’re going to get this right for of the bipartisan governor’s office our kids.” budget agreement who is committed the Senate to working with Majority Leader, the Speaker of the House parents, teachers, and students to make and the governor announced yesterday. sure we get this right. We will remain The safety protocols detailed in the vigilant and flexible, helping ensure safety MI Safe Schools Roadmap includes protocols are in place in every Michigan guidance on the use of PPE, good school.” hygiene, cleaning/disinfecting, spacing “The governor’s MI Safe Schools

Roadmap is a thoughtful, comprehensive plan that puts the health and safety of our students and educators first, balancing this priority with the importance of inschool education,” said David Hecker, president of AFT Michigan. “Our teachers and support staff are eager and ready to implement safety measures in our schools to ensure everyone who steps foot in them is protected from the spread of COVID-19. I applaud the governor’s leadership and unwavering commitment to our students during this time, and look forward to working closely with her as we continue to protect Michiganders from this virus.”

n June 3, the governor announced a group of 25 leaders in health care and education to serve on the COVID-19 Return to Learn Advisory Council. The council is chaired by Tonya Allen, and includes public health experts, a pediatrician, educators, school administrators, school board members, community leaders, parents, and students. The Council will continue to work closely with the governor as she continues to put the health and safety of our students and educators first. On June 17, 2020, Gov. Whitmer announced that Michigan schools may resume in-person learning in phase four of the MI Safe Start plan, with strict safety measures in place. The Advisory Council was created to identify the critical issues that must be addressed, provide valuable input to inform the process of returning to school, and ensure a smooth and safe transition back to school. The Council will act in an advisory capacity to the governor and the COVID-19 Task Force on Education, and will continue to develop recommendations regarding the safe, equitable, and efficient K-12 return to school in the fall. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Berrien County Health Department to work collaboratively with schools to prepare for 2020-2021 school year

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t a press briefing Tuesday, June 30, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the new MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap, a comprehensive document to help school districts create local plans for in-person learning in the fall. The Roadmap outlines a number of safety protocols for schools to implement in each phase of the Governor’s MI Safe Start Plan that keeps the health and safety of educators, school staff and students as a top priority. One notable element of the Return to School Roadmap is the integration of local health departments into the planning and implementation of the required COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plans that each school must create. The Berrien County Health Department has worked alongside the school community to address the needs of students, staff and their families and will continue that collaborative relationship

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the Roadmap to the specific needs of their students,” Britten added. “Local health departments will be working very closely with school leadership to implement the best plans for students, school staff, and broader communities. Health departments and schools already work together to respond to infectious diseases; this year that work will be more important than ever as we all prioritize keeping schools open for face-to-face instruction.” With new COVID-19 cases making a resurgence in some areas of the state, it is important that all residents remain vigilant with the protective measures necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing, wearing a face covering, and excellent hand hygiene are keys to keeping transmission levels low. Find more information about the latest on COVID-19 in Berrien County including current case counts, testing options, and prevention information at www. bchdmi.org/covid19. — STAFF

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as it guides and aids schools through the difficult challenge of bringing students back to the classroom this fall. Berrien County Health Officer Nicki Britten was an integral part of the Return to Schools Advisory Council tasked with informing the creation of the Roadmap and was provided the opportunity to speak on behalf of local public health departments at the June 30 press conference in Lansing. “Many facets of potential mitigation strategies were thought through from all areas of impact including health, financial, developmental, educational quality, feasibility, and community acceptance. While there are no simple solutions to the deeply complex challenges presented by COVID-19, the Roadmap represents the best path forward for schools given the reality we face,” Britten said. “There is no one size fits all for how to conduct face-to-face education in this pandemic, and local communities will have the opportunity to tailor implementation of

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Patrons enjoy curbside delivery at New Buffalo Township Library

taff at New Buffalo Township Library weren’t caught off guard when they learned of the library’s shutdown due to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Stay at Home executive order, which was issued for Michigan in March. According to Julie Grynwich, the library director, the library is a part of the Southwest Michigan Library Cooperative, which is comprised of 33 libraries in Berrien, Allegan, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Even before the executive order, the cooperative’s director alerted everyone. “We could start seeing the writing on the wall that this was going to happen,” Grynwich said. Now, patrons are happy to finally be receiving their library books again – via curbside delivery. The library officially began doing curbside delivery Monday, June 15, meaning that patrons park their cars and have a staff member deliver their books right to them. No one, however, is allowed inside of the library. There are myriad reasons for that, Grynwich said. Currently, Michigan is in Phase Four of the MI Safe Start Plan. Only gatherings of 10 people are allowed indoors and, counting staff members, this wouldn’t allow for many patrons inside of the library. Items being borrowed from the library and returned to the library’s book drop must also be quarantined for four days. “We have the unique task of giving materials and getting materials back – it’s not like going to the store, where you pick your food and take it home,” she said. Quarantining items comes into play if patrons are allowed back into the library. “Until we’re told that’s not a good practice anymore, then it’s sort of counterproductive to have people in the stacks or touching DVS and books again because we can’t quarantine

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

them,” she said. numbers are rising.) Enforcing the use of masks is also Patrons can order items by calling hard. Not knowing where patrons the library or through their online are coming from is also a challenge. account, then call to set up an While library staff appointment for knows its local pickup. Patrons are patrons as well told to park in a as some summer designated parking residents, there spot in front of the are also those who library (Grynwich wander through the said that there are doors from out of six spots). After state. masking up, a staff “We get a lot of member will come Julie Grynwich, Dot Siuda and people traveling out to the car and Samantha Hill are hard at work through - that deliver their books at the library’s front desk happens a lot in the or other items to summer. We don’t them in a bag. know if they’ve Staff members been to Arizona, pull a list in the which right now morning of what is a hot bed for items have been COVID, or Florida reserved, which they could be from then get pulled, anywhere,” she placed in a bag said. with the patron’s The library staff information on Designated parking spots have been is waiting for them and put on a set up for pickup in front of the library sanitizer stations, table. which are currently Books that are backordered (germ returned via the screens have been library’s book drop installed at the are then returned front desk). Staff to The Pokagon members will need Room, where they to get accustomed quarantine for four to cleaning the days. The books bathrooms more are first scanned frequently as well before being placed Samantha Hill, assistant to the as the computer on a table. Once director, fills in a chart for pickups on a whiteboard stations once they’re marked as patrons allowed in. safe, books go into Grynwich said that libraries in a cart, checked in and returned to the Michigan were given “leeway” in shelves. terms of how and when they should reopen. Some have decided to do n the near future, Grynwich curbside services; others have said that the library may begin allowing patrons to set decided to open up for very limited up a time to use the library’s access. (Grynwich recently found out computers, faxing, or copying that some Michigan libraries that had services, as well as the history room. opened at 25% capacity are pulling Some aspects of the library, such back and thinking of doing services as programs that the library puts on, by appointments, since COVID

will not be returning anytime soon. The Friends of the Library has been putting on programs online, which Grynwich said have been popular. Another popular library program that has now found a home online is the summer reading program. This year, Kristy Good, the youth services director, said that 60 children have signed up for the program. Children in the younger age division have the chance to accumulate 10 badges and receive 10 prizes, while the older age group (13 to 18 years old) have the chance to three big win prizes in a raffle. “I’d like to keep doing it (the online program) even when we’re open next summer,” Good, who’s always been hosting a virtual story time on the library’s Facebook, said. In terms of finances, Grynwich said the library is going to “take a loss this year.” The library operates on a fixed income, funded by tax revenues that “aren’t going up much every year but expenses are.” Penal fines – which are fines from speeding tickets and trucks being overweight at the weigh station, with a percentage of the fines being distributed to libraries based on a county’s population – also finance libraries, although libraries have taken a cut from those fines recently. Grynwich said that, due to the lockdown, not many speeding tickets were issued or overweight trucks were on the road. The library receives a portion of Local Revenue Sharing Board (LRSB) funds, but Four Winds Casinos hasn’t reopened until recently. Having a supportive staff, though, makes all the difference. “They all look out for each other, they’ve all been great sports about the closure…When I asked them to come back, they were back,” she said. More information about New Buffalo Township Library’s current services can be found at www. newbuffalotownshiplibrary. org/ or www.facebook.com/ newbuffalotownshiplibrary.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

CHALK BOARD

MAN AIRLIFTED FROM CRASH NEAR MICHIGAN STATE LINE

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man was taken by medical helicopter after two vehicles collided last week near the Michigan state line. Brock Roberts, 30, was flown to an outside hospital after being extricated from a Toyota Prius at Indiana 39 and County Road 1000 North July 1, according to LaPorte County Police. He was a passenger in the vehicle driven by Katelyn Winter. Police said the investigation shows the eastbound Winter, 31, was attempting to cross the twolane highway when she pulled out from a stop sign into the path of a northbound GMC Envoy operated by Devin Alexander, 20. Both heavily damaged vehicles came to rest in a ditch less than 100 feet from the point of impact. Police said Winter and Alexander declined medical treatment. Alcohol was not a factor in the collision, police said. Indiana 39 was closed in both directions to allow investigators and medical personnel to safely work the scene of the 5 p.m. crash. Police said the condition of Roberts was not known. — STAN MADDUX

New Buffalo school board approves employment of new middle school principal

embers of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education approved the employment of Bradley Brunner in the position of principal at New Buffalo Middle School pending a background investigation, at a special meeting held via Zoom Wednesday, July 1. Brunner will be replacing Lindsey Diebolt, the former principal, who resigned at the end of last school year. According to his Linkedin profile, Brunner has been the director of K-12 Strategic Programs at Youngson International School of Seoul in Seoul, South Korea, since July 2019. Previously, he was assistant principal at Lakeshore Public Schools and high school principal at Lakeshore High School. Dr. Jeff Leslie, New Buffalo Area School superintendent, said that the position had 16 applicants and that six of them were interviewed. The process was then narrowed down to three finalists. Leslie said that Brunner received “glowing recommendations” from the superintendent of Lakeshore Public Schools. “I think the middle school

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

is really in great hands – I’m really looking forward to the things Bradley’s going to be able to do with the middle school similar to what he did over there at Lakeshore High School and I’m looking forward to working with you,” he said. In his comments to the board, Brunner said that he and his wife were both born and raised in Michigan and said that they and their three children are “so excited” to be a part of the New Buffalo community (his parents and in-laws were also tuning into the Zoom meeting). Brunner and his family will be in Seoul for another week “wrapping things up” before making the trek back to the United States. He plans on beginning to communicate with middle school staff so he can start “building relationships” with everyone. “It was such an easy choice when the middle school position popped up online – it’s absolutely where we’d like to be,” he said. Frank Magro, board trustee, said that he was glad that Brunner had younger children who would be starting “in the beginning” at the school district. Board president Chuck Heit

gave a shout-out to those who volunteered their time to be a part of the interview process, including the personnel committee, board members, teacher, parents, and students. On Tuesday, June 30, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap, a comprehensive document to help districts create local plans for in-person learning in the fall. The governor also signed Executive Order 2020142, which requires school districts to adopt a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan laying out how they will protect students and educators across the various phases of the Michigan Safe Start Plan. (see page 5).

eslie said that if Berrien County continues to stay in Phase Four, he envisions inperson learning to resume within the school district Tuesday, Sept. 8. He was scheduled to meet with the county superintendents and members of the Berrien County Department of Health Tuesday, July 7, and with principals, departmental heads and union members Wednesday, July 8.

Currently, graduation for the class of 2020 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 24 (with rain dates scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26) in the middle/ high school’s multiplex. Leslie said he’s hoping to divide the multiplex up in different events, with graduates being one event and family members being in the bleachers as another event. He emphasized that the district is still in the planning stages and might need “blessing from various entities.” Other options that have been discussed have included the amphitheater in Washington Park in Michigan City; however, he really hopes to hold it on the district’s home turf as well as on that particular weekend. We kind of need things to go in the right direction for us,” he said. From March 16 to June 29, the food services staff served 35,680 meals to students. Leslie said that staff members are taking a “well-deserved break” and that Water’s Edge United Methodist Church has been taking over meal distribution for the remainder of the summer through its Bridge the Gap program.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

ARENA sports

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

ell, the Fourth of July holiday has passed, not with a whimper, but a bang. Holy cow, there were a lot of explosions in my neighborhood on the fourth and, for that matter, the week leading up to it. I thought that because of the high unemployment numbers, fireworks might be a bit subdued this year, but boy was I wrong. Apparently a pandemic, social unrest, and high unemployment are no match for the lure of fireworks. As we approach the opening or reopening of the seasons in all of the major professional sports leagues, my heart is happy, but my mind is concerned. Without thinking, I’m so happy that my world will be enriched by being able to follow the Cubs, Sox, Blackhawks, and soon, the Bears. The Bulls may get a chance to play against other non-lottery teams in a “losers” bracket, and that could be fun and informative for the team’s new front office as well as us fans. The Bears’ season is going to be shortened by two exhibition games, but as of now it’s all systems go. How the uncertainties will affect all of the fantasy leagues out there is a question that will be answered in the coming weeks. The Blackhawks caught a break when their season had to pause. They were on their way to missing out on the playoffs, but if and when the season resumes, they will be in because the league expanded the number of participants. Recently, I found out that two White Sox players tested positive for the virus and many other clubs have players who have also tested positive. Then I found out that Mike Trout, maybe the best player in

baseball today, was considering opting out of the season. Others have already opted out, and more than likely, still more will. While I wished everyone would play, I certainly wouldn’t blame them if they decided the risk was too high. This seems to be my dilemma. I want so badly for the baseball season, even in the short form, to be played. On the other hand, I don’t want anyone’s health to be compromised. I heard an interview with Tommy Hottovy, the Cubs’ pitching coach. Tommy is only 38-years-old, and in very good shape, but the virus hit him hard. He had to be quarantined for 30 days, and there were times he was pretty sure he wouldn’t be participating this season. Fortunately, he has recovered and is back with the team. Because there has been such a shortage of feel good stories and humor lately, I thought I’d try to end this column on a lighter note. Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest was dominated again by Joey Chestnut. He ate 75 dogs in 10 minutes to win going away. I couldn’t bring myself to watch this incredible feat, but I admire his skills. Joey is a true champion. Why do they put barcodes on the side of Norwegian military ships? I considered making you wait until next week to give you the answer, but I don’t want to be mean, so here you go: So when the ships return to port they can...Scandinavian! Stay safe. Be kind. Have fun. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

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My mother encouraged me to be artistic. It was written in a contract at an early age that I would be an artist. — Kurt Cobain

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10 THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Butterfly Bonanza to return to Friendship Botanic Gardens

HIKERS TO OBSERVE BUTTERFLIES AT BURNS PRAIRIE PRESERVE

he Harbor Country Hikers will check out a brand-new trail at the Burns Prairie Preserve on its next hike, which will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 11. The trail cuts through an established butterfly habitat. For decades, many hundreds of millions of monarch butterflies flooded the continental U.S. and southern Canada each spring and summer, after wintering in Mexico. Their population has declined by as much as 90% in recent years. Hikers President Pat Fisher will lead the hike through the 38acre preserve located at Mount Zion Rd., south of U.S. 12, in Galien, Michigan. The preserve includes a variety of habitats - a prairie, wetlands and woodlands - and boasts an abundance of summer-blooming wildflowers, such as black-eyed Susans and butterfly weed. The Hikers recommends long pants, a hat, sturdy shoes or boots, water, and insect repellent for this hike. HCH observes social distancing and the use of face masks is required for those who join its hikes. For directions and more information, visit the Hikers’ website at harborcountryhikers.com. Although the Hikers encourages membership, all are invited on its hikes, including children if accompanied by an adult. The Burns Prairie Preserve is a Chikaming Open Lands property. — STAFF REPORTS

Fatal crash occurs on Red Arrow Highway in New Buffalo Township

crash involving a car and a motorcycle resulted in a fatality in New Buffalo Township Saturday, July 4. According to a Berrien County Sheriff’s Department press release, at approximately 6:45 p.m., first responders were sent to the intersection of Red Arrow Highway and Community Hall Road in New Buffalo Township for a car versus motorcycle injury accident. Upon arrival, sheriff’s deputies found a female unresponsive lying on the road. Two passers by doctors were already administering CPR. The operator of the motorcycle was taken to Franciscan Hospital in Michigan City, where she was pronounced deceased by ER doctors. Investigators determined that a car going southbound driven by Joyce Collins of Three Oaks was slowing down to pull into Timothy’s Restaurant. The driver was going to pick up and take food away pulling into the “pick-up” area. As Collins was making a left turn into the parking lot, she pulled directly into the path of a northbound motorcycle driven by Stacy Johnson, a 23-year-old female from Illinois. Johnson was the only occupant of the motorcycle and was not wearing a helmet. The driver of the car did not suffer any injuries. New Buffalo Township sheriff’s deputies were assisted by the Berrien County Sheriffs Traffic Crash reconstruction unit. Other agencies responding were New Buffalo City Police Department, Medic 1 Ambulance and the New Buffalo Township Fire Department. The crash is still under investigation and it is unknown at this time if drugs or alcohol was a factor. — STAFF REPORTS

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Friendship Botanic Gardens will be hosting a free educational program dedicated to monarch butterflies beginning at 2 p.m. CDT Saturday, July 26. Families will have the chance to learn about the life cycle of monarch butterflies and how they can personally assist in boosting the butterfly populations from landscape horticulturist and monarch butterfly expert, Dolly Foster. Individuals in attendance can experience live butterflies through a monarch butterfly release near the Butterfly Garden. Children will also be able to create butterfly-themed arts and crafts. This is the first event in the free eco-adventures summer series, with the Bug Safari following from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. For the butterfly presentation and craft station for children, chairs and tables will be distanced. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own hand sanitizer and practice social distancing. The use of masks is also recommended. Friendship Botanic Gardens is located at 2055 E. U.S. Hwy. 12, Michigan City. For more information, please call the office at 219-8789885 or visit the Butterfly Bonanza Facebook event page or www. friendshipgardens.org. — STAFF REPORTS

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020 11

Friends of Berrien County Trails see trail network possibilities with proposed road diet

potential road diet and the Marquette Greenway – two big projects being discussed within Harbor Country – have now collided. Which, according to Gary Wood and J.B. Hoyt, couldn’t be better for the area’s economy and trail systems. Wood and Hoyt are both founding members of Friends of Berrien County Trails, a 501 (c) (3) focused on trail development that’s the result of a merger with the former Harbor Country Trails. The Marquette Greenway is a regional, non-motorized greenway, which will span 58 miles in length along the south shore of Lake Michigan from Calumet Park in Chicago to downtown New Buffalo, Michigan. Portions of the trail have been completed in Indiana and Illinois; however, the remaining 3.8 miles to the trail’s end in the city of New Buffalo still needs to be completed. The proposed road diet (which is separate from the Marquette Greenway), would reconfigure the fourlane U.S. Highway 12, reducing it to one lane in each direction with a center turn lane. A trial road diet was implemented by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) in May. The trial diet begins at the Michigan state line and runs to the city limits of New Buffalo. The road was restriped as three lanes, while the fourth lane was blocked from use. New Buffalo Township approved the trial road diet at a meeting earlier this year; however, the City of New Buffalo remained split on the trial. A plan from MDOT involves paving U.S. Highway 12 from the intersection at Red Arrow Highway (north of the city of New Buffalo) through to the Indiana state line next year. A road diet may be part of that plan – if the township approves a resolution in support of it in December. (The city may also pass a resolution at that time to have the diet in the city.)

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Currently, Hoyt said that there’s a network of trails that extends along the western side of Michigan to the Mackinac Bridge, with a few gaps. Southwest Michigan, Hoyt said, has those gaps. That’s where Marquette Greenway and the road diet come in. If it can be completed, the Marquette Greenway may eventually connect with the linear park that’s being proposed by

support of the Marquette Greenway saw a possibility for its completion. “Just think about how many people would use the trail to go back and forth between Michigan City and New Buffalo – they won’t have to drive here and deal with traffic while riding their bike into town,” Wood said. Studies have shown that nonmotorized trails bring visitors, who will spend time visiting restaurants, brew

times for the left turns onto the road, the amount of heavy truck traffic and is it better or it isn’t,” Hoyt said. Traffic will also be studied to determine if a stoplight should be installed at Grand Beach Road. Three-lane highways are safer than four-lane ones because of reduced speeds and because they provide greater visibility and easier left turns, according to a press release from Friends of Berrien County Trails. Data from several studies across the country show that three-lane roads have 19% to 47% fewer crashes than on a four-lane one, the press release states. Cones now block off the fourth lane of the trial diet, so motorists aren’t using it. The lane would be removed and ground up, so there’d some green space and a shoulder area, providing for the required separation between the highway and the nonmotorized trail.

C J.B. Hoyt and Gary Wood stand near the beginning of the trial road diet in New Buffalo Township

the Berrien County Parks Department that would begin at Galien River County Park in New Buffalo and end in Bridgman. A connected trail network will allow for longer distance biking, hiking and running as well as will draw visitors to the area and have a positive impact on it. Upon learning about MDOT’s plan for a road diet last August, those who are in

pubs, gift shops, and other businesses, to the area. A traffic study will be conducted on the current trial road diet during the last week of July. MDOT will be studying the roadway traffic both during the week and on the weekend. “It’s important to get a traffic study done for the facts and say, ‘Look, this is what safety data was last year and safety data for a three-lane road. Here’s wait

urrent plans are for cyclists to ride on Grand Beach Road in Indiana, continuing onto the road and then crossing the railroad tracks onto the highway. From there, cyclists would hop onto the trail on the highway until they reach Willard Street in New Buffalo. Having the road diet in the township is imperative to the completion of the Marquette Greenway, Hoyt and Wood said, as that fourth lane needs to be removed to create the required safe distance between roadway and trail. Without the diet, there wouldn’t be room for the trail, as it would bump up right against Amtrak. (Talks with Amtrak to get land from them have been fruitless.) “This is a big deal - it has huge implications for the community,” Wood said. “We’re just saying: We want the township to know there are people who support (the diet’s) continuation,” he added.

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12 THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

Susan and Matthew Kubiak stand by a display of B Nutty’s gourmet peanut butter made from honey roasted peanuts toppings

New Buffalo Farmers Market has first in-person market of the season

he New Buffalo Business Association (NBBA) took advantage of the busy Fourth of July weekend to launch its new in-person format for the New Buffalo Farmers Market. The first 10 in-person vendors made an appearance Friday, July 3. While several vendors remain online, others are now also setting up their tents and tables on Merchant Street in New Buffalo from 9 to 11 a.m. (pick-up is also available

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

during this time). In the future, the market might even be extended until noon. “It’s going to be bigger and better every week – even in the middle of a pandemic, we’re trying to bring something good to the community,” Abby Voss, NBBA vice president and cochair of the events committee, said. Those who want to continue the market’s virtual format should make their online orders by the preceding Wednesday at 10 p.m. to receive their orders by Friday.

Shoppers must bring their receipt to the market. Vendors bring their products to the market Friday morning to be disbursed to shoppers. “Everybody has differant levels of safety that they’re operating in so we’re just giving everybody an opportunity to still shop at their local vendors,” Voss said. For an updated list of each week’s in-person and virtual vendors, visit www. newbuffalo.org/ or the New Buffalo Business Association’s Facebook page.

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Erica, Katy and Alayna Burke tout fresh produce from Hillside Orchards

Kathleen Klackle sits by her colorful gourd birdhouses and stashboxes

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020 13

Fireworks show cancelled by coronavirus finds home over Pine Lake

BY STAN MADDUX

n estimated $20,000 in fireworks for a festival cancelled by COVID-19 found a Fourth of July home above Pine Lake in

LaPorte. The 200 or more boaters anchoring down on the water to see the show didn’t leave disappointed. The show in many ways was better than the annual fireworks display at the LaPorte County fairgrounds, which was also cancelled by the virus. “Great show,” said Pastor Dennis Meyer of Bethany Lutheran Church in LaPorte. Originally, the fireworks over Pine Lake were reserved for the annual Red, Wine and Brew tasting and country music concert the church hosts every year to raise money for local first responders. The event scheduled July 3 at Stone Lake Beach and the traditional fireworks display sponsored by the LaPorte Jaycees July 4 at the fairgrounds were both cancelled.

Just when it seemed there would be no fireworks this year, opportunity knocked when Greg Ake offered his yard along Pine Lake near Island Drive for the church to have their fireworks taken off the shelf and professionally detonated. “We weren’t going to have anything; then, all of a sudden, we were able to make it happen,” Meyer said. The fireworks show was not given any publicity to avoid large congregations but word of mouth spread, resulting in patriotic boaters jamming the water. There were also good sized crowds in spots along the shoreline. A full orange moon reflecting off the water along with ideal summer like temperatures and calm winds enhanced the experience. “It really is about perfect. Once again, some great community members came together to do something special,” said Carrie Garwood, outreach/volunteer coordinator at the church.

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14 THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

‘Artisans on Ash Street’ supports local creatives

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ocal artisans have found a summer home – at least for the month of July – on 300 E. Ash Street in Three Oaks. The site is the location for Artisans on Ash Street, which debuted from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 3. For the remainder of July (and possibly the summer), the public is invited to browse a few booths brimming with local artisans’ work as well as to enjoy tasty barbecue, pizza, tacos and more from Wood, Stock and Grill. For the rest of the summer and possibly into the late fall, Wood, Stock and Grill has parked its green Volkswagen Beetles and set up its tent at the location so that hungry travelers can enjoy barbecue and tasty, smoky items every day of the week and on the weekends (weather permitting). Food is served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and later on the weekends. Artists have lost some business due to the coronavirus pandemic and ensuing stay at home orders. “It (the event) lets local artists get out and still get some exposure while we respect social distancing and keeping a safe space,” Steve Gargis from Wood, Stock and Grill said. At the first event, Carie

Berger of Carie’s Delightful Treats was selling her chocolate-covered covered treats (she used to just make them for friends until they prodded her to start her own business). Zoe Popielski was doing a brisk business selling eggs, which were laid from her chickens that she’d raised at her Buchanan home. Phil James of Scaley Feathers Adventures LLC was selling his reclaimed and salvaged wood creations. James mainly retrieves leftover wood from taking down barns, so that he can use it to create custom tables and bars, charcuterie boards and other items. “I let the wood tell me what it wants to be – which is not firewood,” he said. In addition to taking his creations to different shows, James sells his bigger pieces at Restyled Furnishings in Granger, Indiana. Seeing as how so many shows got cancelled due to the pandemic, James was grateful for the opportunity to display his work. “Small businesses like myself just do what we have to do to keep alive – change the selling platform. It’s a good opportunity for Three Oaks,” he said. To find out how to become a vendor at Artisans on Ash Street, visit Wood, Stock and Grill’s Facebook.

Artisans set up their tents in the lot

Tim Carrigan cooks up a tasty meal at Wood Stock and Grill.

Phil James shows off one of his reclaimed and salvaged wood creations

Zoe Popielski sells her farm fresh eggs

Kate DeVlaminck makes her Famous Strawberry Shakeups

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020 15

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16 THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020

FERNWOOD OFFERING POP-UP WEDDING PACKAGES

ernwood Botanical Garden is teaming up with popular wedding vendors to create an offer for couples who have had to change their plans due to the pandemic and are looking for a simple solution to get married soon. A minimal-planning wedding ceremony was created to take place at Southwest Michigan’s most scenic and beautiful public garden. The package will cost $1,800. The wedding party may choose between three dates and three times: July 18, Aug. 1 and Sept. 26 at noon, 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Package includes a 30-minute ceremony and a one-hour photo shoot on Fernwood’s scenic grounds, a personalized ceremony officiated by Weddings by Kelly, photography by Danielle Sergio Photography, sound and music provided by DPM Events, bouquet and boutonniere provided by Yellow Door Flowers, and a cake for two. Ceremony guest counts will be limited in order to accommodate current gathering mandates indoors, in case of inclement weather. For specific pop-up wedding details and information, visit Fernwood’s website at www. fernwoodbotanical.org. In response to the coronavirus and subsequent stay-at-home orders that closed many businesses, including public gardens, across the country, Fernwood was forced to be closed March 18 through June 2. The Garden reopened to members June 5 and then to all June 16. Fernwood visitation information and guidelines can be found at www.fernwoodbotanical.org. “Planning a wedding through a pandemic is completely unpredictable. We want to provide couples that may have had their plans upended a way to have their closest family and friends join them in Fernwood’s serene gardens for a stress-free marriage this summer,” said Fernwood’s Rental Facilities and Visitor Services coordinator, Heidi Tuthill. The garden is open year-round and is located in Buchanan Township at 13988 Range Line Road, Niles, Michigan. For more information, visit www.fernwoodbotanical.org or call 269-695-6491. — STAFF REPORTS

Handicapped accessible playground opens with a big splash BY STAN MADDUX

splash pad dumping cherry shaped buckets of water on users below is among the features of a new fully handicapped accessible playground in LaPorte. A driving force behind the $500,000 facility, which was paid for mostly with donations from the community, was seeing a child in a wheelchair stuck in the wood chip surface of the old playground that was there. The splash pad activated for five minutes at the push of a button and spongy rubber playground surface drew a lot of compliments from the over 100 people at a dedication Sunday, July 5. Early response from the public has been excellent judging by the 70 people using it all at once the following afternoon. “I think it’s cool that it lets disabled people play,” said Rowan McNeely, 14, who came with her mother, Wendy, and her Girl Scout troop leader, Rhonda Graves “It’s good for the kids,” said Brigette Underwood, who was pushing her 1-year-old son, Brayden, on a swing set. The facility renamed “LaPark” is across from Bethany Lutheran Church at 102 G. Street. It’s where the old Park Elementary School once stood. Over a decade ago, the property was acquired from

a private developer by the church, which maintained the old school playground featuring just one piece of handicapped accessible equipment. Pastor Dennis Meyer said his vision is children of all ages and abilities to regularly flock to the totally revamped park open to anyone. “I cannot say enough about the community of LaPorte stepping up and making this happen,” he said. The park covering half a city block features more than a dozen pieces of playground equipment along with the splash pad and expanded parking. Major financial contributors included the church, Healthcare Foundation of LaPorte and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. Meyer said about $200,000 in labor was also provided at no cost by local trades organizations. Daily park hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Meyer said the church hires people to provide supervision at the park and operate a concession stand. The only thing left to do is install a professional grade basketball goal on an already striped traditional hard playing surface. “This is amazing. The kids are already loving it,” Mayor Tom Dermody said.

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020 17

Man marks 19th year of buying flags for LaPorte

e’s been doing it for nearly 20 years. Jim Roy has no plans to stop buying the hundreds of flags displayed throughout LaPorte’s downtown area for the Fourth of July. “I think it makes people feel good about where they live at and the country we live in,” he said. Roy said he got involved in 2002 when the LaPorte Jaycees could no longer afford the cost of purchasing and maintaining the flags that are typically up by Memorial Day. He was also inspired to keep the local tradition alive by the terrorist attacks occurring the previous year on U.S. soil. This year, Roy spent $7,500 for 700 nylon flags along with poles and other hardware like brackets needed to hang them on light posts along both sides of Indiana 2 and other streets, including the U.S. 35 overpass. There were 300 of the new flags held in reserve to replace those becoming torn and showing other signs of wear. Roy said the cost is not cheap but it’s a drop in the bucket for showing his support for the nation and the freedoms veterans like his father helped achieve and defend.

BY STAN MADDUX

“It’s a good thing I think for everybody to see the flags with the way things are today,” he said. He also pointed out every flag is made in the USA. What could be viewed as a sea of red, white and blue is an attention getter for people like John Mills as

they’re passing through downtown. Mills, a longtime LaPorte resident, said the flags this year also help fill a void from the tradition rich Fourth of July parade in the city, which was cancelled by COVID-19. “Even though we don’t have the parade, we still have the spirit,” he said.

oy, 60, is not a veteran but the military runs in his genes with his father, Michael, serving in World War II.

One of his uncles fought in the Battle of the Bulge described as the bloodiest attack leading to victory over Germany in the war. Roy, owner of The Floor Store at 401 Boyd Boulevard, fastens the flags to posts and brackets so they’re ready when given to the street department to hang and take down by mid-July. “It’s really a team effort,” he said. LaPorte County Commissioner Rich Mrozinski, a veteran of the Vietnam War, said the flags are an awesome sight that does his heart good especially during a period of great turmoil. “Let’s face it. We got a lot of issues going on in the United States. People who want to erase history. People who want to divide us. A lot of political strife. Sometimes we need a little reminder like seeing that flag to remind us that this is America,” he said. “It’s not just the Fourth of July. It’s Independence Day,” he said. LaPorte mayor Tom Dermody said Roy is an example of the people here doing things in many areas to keep the community strong. “We’re honored that he’s willing to continue this gesture and I think LaPorte is better because of it,” he said.

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HOROSCOPE JULY 9-15, 2020

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

Things will start to turn around on the home front this week. Hidden power struggles may come to light now, giving you the opportunity to release and resolve conflicts. The thing to watch for is getting overly ambitious or overbearing with family. Make peace and seek some solitude.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

There is a lot of mental chatter or clutter that will be silenced this week, helping you realize that you may have been taking on too much responsibility. The problems you have been dealing with ultimately aren’t your creation or issue. Release yourself from other people’s karma.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Let your heart center open up this week. Embrace family and loved ones. Don’t shy away from contributing to a larger cause or getting involved more intimately with others. There is an element of caring and sharing that needs to be welcomed. The lone wolf dies, but the pack survives.

Some of your basic beliefs and ideas could be challenged this week, and you may have to deal with some unexpected influences or ideas now. You will be in the mood for some new experiences and this conflict could be just the thing to shake you from stagnation and indifference.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

Spread your wings my social butterfly and share your enthusiasm for life and sharing the earth’s bounty. Virgo-ian energy is all about the culmination of hard work and sharing the harvest. Now is the time to share ideas and distribute your creations. Launch that social media campaign.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

Funds, assets and the means to accomplish will start to surface now. Whether you pay down debt or secure a loan, success will come when you collaborate and get more involved with other people. Now is the time to secure a solid commitment and strong backing.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 You may be able to take the bull by the horns, and tell people what needs to be done at the office but when it comes to dealing with family, you may be at a loss. At work, your performance and social standing is enhanced by your directiveness, but at home take a gentler approach.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

It’s time to pick yourself up and get back in the race. The time of sitting on the sidelines is over. You will be feeling much more motivated and certain about your talents and abilities, and you can expect some positive feedback this week. Let your inner light shine on!

The desire to get out and explore will be strong this week and some barriers or restrictions to your movement will be lifted. These barriers are more mental barriers than actual physical obstacles. Let fears and apprehension subside and embrace your life with certainty.

Things that may have been held up for partners or people you spend a lot of one on one time with will start to move now. You may go on a journey or experience new things because the choices other people made. A lot will be happening for you, through others. Enjoy the perks.

All work and no play can really bring you down this week. You may learn something about coworkers or the company that will cause you to step back or take pause. Whereas you want to stay involved for the financial benefit, the emotional or mental toll may not be worth it. Hot fun in the summertime will be the mantra for this week. Get ready to for a solid dose of exuberance and excitement about life, giving you the courage to make changes that create more independence and self-worth. This is a good week to express yourself artistically and experiment.

Possession isn’t nine-tenths of the law. It’s nine-tenths of the problem. — John Lennon

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