PUBLICATION NUMBER 377960 CIRCULATION 5,000+ WEEKLY
NEW BUFFALO TIMES distribution:
Milda’s Corner Market • Sawyer Garden Center • The Whistle Stop
David’s Delicatessen • Barney’s Knoll Bros. • Stray Dog Infusco Coffee Roasters Black Currant Bakehouse
The Marina Grand • Redamak’s Big C Lumber
Between Casey’s and Nancy’s Sawyer Hardware • The Harbor Grand Froehlics - Three Oaks
Journeyman Distillery - Three Oaks
The Acorn Theater - Three Oaks
The Lakeside Inn
For the most convenient location, you can subscribe to get the NEW BUFFALO TIMES in your mailbox or inbox. Please email us for E-TIMES, info@newbuffalotimes.com.
Three Oaks Village Council awards sidewalk contract
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Members of the Three Oaks Village Council awarded a contract to B&Z Company to perform work on village sidewalks at their Wednesday, Oct. 9, meeting.
Councilmembers approved awarding the contract for B & Z to perform work on Alternate Three, which includes a stretch of sidewalk along Magnolia Street, for $85,005 and Alternate Four, which includes a stretch of sidewalk along Locust Street, for $205,480.
Andrew Rudd of Wightman said that, in late August, the village had received three bids, with the other ones being from Nexgen and Northern Construction Services, Inc.
Councilmember Becky Thomas said that Rudd can tell B & Z that their bid has been accepted on the two sites and ask them if they’re able to hold their pricing until next spring, so that both of the alternates can be done at the same time.
On Oct. 11, the village rescinded its temporary boil water advisory that was issued Oct. 4, subsequent to receiving clearance from EGLE and confirmation of uncontaminated water samples after the presence of coliform bacteria was detected in the water supply..
Last month, a “water hammer” had put a hole in one of the village’s water mains while the village had been changing the media in the filters in the water plant.
The water main had been flushed and samples had come back negative for the sites that had been required by EGLE after being sent to the lab.
Village manager Dan Faulkner said that, when the village conducted its October routine samples, its “normal site” tested positive. Tests that were
conducted upstream and downstream, also came back positive, which triggered another boil order.
Faulkner said the line that was broken was isolated and hydrant flushing was conducted. After reaching out to EGLE, chlorine was introduced into the water system. Over the weekend, temporary pumps were set up and chlorine was injected.
Faulkner said that, in addition to the main break, another culprit for the recent boil orders is the major construction project on U.S. Highway 12, where milling causes the road to vibrate and then the ground, which can “stir things up.”
Councilmembers adopted a resolution to change Generations Drive to a one way from north to south. Generations Drive would be two-way at the entrance until vehicles reach the parking lot at Journeyman Distillery, where it would continue as a one-way all the way down to Central Avenue.
Arequest from Harbor Country Collective to provide a delivery service in the village was approved.
Councilmembers approved offering a lease with a term of $425 per month for five years plus two to the School of American Music.
A request from EGLE for access to Dewey Cannon Park for soil borings was approved. Faulkner said that there’s some “investigative work” that EGLE is wanting to conduct in and around the park as well as Maple Street and part of North Elm.
Councilmembers approved a $1 an hour raise for treasurer Tracy Jones and Steve Olson, $22 an hour for police officer George Knoll and a $200 Christmas bonus for village employees.
Alexandra Clark with Hugo and Winifred Welch enjoying a crisp and sunny October morning in Sawyer
Local Government Meetings
New Buffalo Times
CITY OF NEW BUFFALO
JOHN HUMPHREY, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL
MARK ROBERTSON, ROGER LIJEWSKI, JOHN HUMPHREY, BRIAN FLANAGAN, VANCE PRICE
City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM
CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS
Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM
NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD
PETE RAHM, MICHELLE HEIT, MICHELLE HANNON, PATTY IAZZETTO, JACK ROGERS
Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 4PM
NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM
SHERIFF BERRIEN COUNTY
Sheriff, Chuck Heit
Undersheriff, Greg Sanders
NEW BUFFALO AREA
RECREATIONAL AUTHORITY
Meets at 10AM on the 2nd Wednesday of every other month (odd) at New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Highway New Buffalo
NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD
LISA WERNER, JOHN HASKINS, DENISE CHURCHILL, BRADLEY BURNER, VANESSA THUN, STEPHEN DONNELLY, GREG VOSBERG
CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP
CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD
DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, BILL MARSKE
Chikaming Board meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM
CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS
THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD
Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM
VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD
Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM
GRAND BEACH
Meets on the 3rd Wednesday October thru March at 5PM EST
KIMBERLY WOLNIK, CLERK-TREASURER
HARRY WALDER BLAKE O’HALLORAN, JAMES BRACEWELL, PETER DOERR, EDWARD BRANDES
MICHIANA
VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL
Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM
Chikaming Township Board updated on road projects
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Preliminary work on the road project along Red Arrow Highway from Lakeshore down to Berrien Street was on tap to begin this week, Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said at the township board’s Thursday, Oct. 10, meeting.
While it was hoped that the project would be done this fall, work has been pushed back to next March and will hopefully be completed by Memorial Day 2025.
Work has been pushed back because of difficulty getting the two culvert containers that were ordered.
The project includes work on the culvert, the road and completion of the linear park in that section of road.
Bunte said all projects have been pushed back due to other major county projects.
Bunte said on Oct. 10 that the Lakeside/Pier Street/ East Road project should be starting within the next two weeks, with the Berrien County Road Department anticipating getting the majority of drainage work in and the water lines that are going to be replaced on Pier Street, as well as curb and gutter work and at least a layer of asphalt.
Lakewood has been completed as well as Harbert Road. The second half of Warren Woods Road will be completed next spring.
Board members received a review of the township’s sewer system from Prein and Newhoff. Data that has been collected all summer has been inputted, as well as record plans, creating a GIS system for both sanitary and water systems.
Mark Prein, PE of Prein and Newhoff said the “key takeaway” is that the township now has a water and sewer system map, which will help create a future asset management plan that will determine where the township can get the most “bang for your buck” for making repairs.
“You now have a really good GIS system, a mapping system - you have the ability to use it to your advantage in operation, maintenance and cost reduction and there’s some things in the future to go after,” he said.
A policy on the police department hiring close relatives was approved, which Lt. Jason Roe said is the police department’s initiative to “be able to hire qualified applications that are related to myself and the
chief, while still maintaining transparency and a hard ethical line.”
Board members approved an agreement for law enforcement training academy recruitment. Chief Todd Taylor said that the state legislature passed a bill that allows municipalities to recover some of the money spent toward training at the police academy.
A resolution allowing the township to sponsor a cadet to go through the police academy should the police department find a qualified individual who applied for the department was adopted.
Board members approved hiring Frank Florey as part-time MFR and Nathan Withington as part-time police officer.
Board members approved automatic mutual aid agreements. Fire Chief Allen Weich said that, if a scenario such as a working structure fire is confirmed by dispatch, such an agreement would send help not only from Chikaming Township Fire but also from New Buffalo Township, Bridgman City and Lake Township.
Board members approved
Weich moving forward with applying for a municipal grant from The Pokagon Fund for thermal imaging cameras.
Changes to the fire department’s organizational structure, which involves changing the title of the current captain to operations captain and also creating a station captain, which would be a new position within the department and be filled by a full-time officer.
A resolution that states the township has committed the bulk of its ARPA funds to the broadband project was adopted.
Board members approved the township applying for a Frederick Upton Foundation Grant for $15,000 for the Kohn Park project.
Parks director Joe Martin said that contractor bidding for pickleball courts, ADA compliant bathrooms adjacent to the dog park and a contiguous walkway will go out for Harbert Community Park as part of the SPARK grant. The design elements have been finalized with Abonmarche, with ground scheduled to be broken next spring.
The Monster doesn’t sleep, it dreams of dominance. — Naoya Inoue
WBlue Star Memorial dedicated in Harbert
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
ithin a year of embracing the Blue Star Program, Michigan welcomed its first Blue Star Memorial Marker near Niles on U.S. 31.
Now, 78 years later, its 110th marker has been dedicated 20 miles down the road at Harbert Community Park in Harbert.
“This has been a long process - we’ve gone through many years of planning it and not planning it - and so I’m really happy that we’ve come to this point,” River Valley Garden Club President Elizabeth Paulis said during the club’s dedication of the marker Saturday, Oct. 12.
Trish Payne, chairperson of Michigan’s Blue/Gold Star Program, said that National Garden Clubs and Michigan Garden Club sponsor the Blue and Gold Star Program.
During World War II, it was custom for families with service members to hang the service flags in the windows of their homes.
“On the service flag, there would be a blue star to represent an active family member in the United States Armed Forces and, sadly, a gold star to represent one who’d lost his or her life in service to the country,” said.
The National Garden Clubs adopted the Blue Star Program in 1946 to honor World War II veterans. In 1951, the club changed the wording on the marker to read that it’s a “tribute to the armed forces, who’ve defended the United States of America.”
“Thank you, River Valley Garden Club, for providing this beautiful and fitting setting as a way for us all to remember the sacrifice not only of our military but also of their families,” she said.
Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said that the marker is a “great addition to the park.”
“Just to be a part of this process and to be so supportive of River Valley Garden Club and the entire community - I can’t
thank you enough…I hope many people will come here and enjoy it and pay tribute to our veterans,” he said.
Nancy Ryan, president for Michigan Garden Clubs and wife of a Vietnam veteran, said that the marker is a “symbol for all to see lest we forget those who keep us free.”
“While we go about our daily lives or while we sleep, the men and women of our armed forces fly our skies, sail our seas and guard our shores, ensuring our safety and they stand ready at a moment’s notice to defend our country,” she said.
Ryan added that “we must not forget them - and we do not.”
“We remember with every step of the Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, we remember with every drumbeat of the Honor Guard on the Fourth of July, we pledge Allegiance to the Flag and we remember, at the sound of revelry we remember and at the last lingering notes of “Taps” resounds in the distance - we remember,” she said.
The marker, which sits at one end of the park along Red Arrow Highway, was unveiled by state Rep. Joey Andrews and state Sen. Jonathan Lindsey.
Andrews said both of his grandparents were veterans, which “has left a mark on our family.”
“It’s always been a reminder to us that things like peace and democracy and freedom are luxuries we get to enjoy because people, largely volunteers, put their lives and mental health at great risk in order to preserve them and win them for us,” he said.
Having served for seven years in the United States Army Special Forces, Lindsey said that he’s appreciative of the memorial.
“Even the smallest gesture of appreciation for service means so much to our service members - and I think that’s also true for service members who have separated and are veterans,” he said.
Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte addresses the crowd while Elizabeth Paulis looks on
The crowd awaits the memorial’s unveiling
Trish Payne, Michigan Garden Club Blue Star chair, gives the program’s history
The New Troy American Legion Post 518 participates in the ceremony
Nancy Ryan, Michigan Garden Club state president, presents a certificate to Elizabeth Paulis, River Valley Garden Club president
State Sen. Jonathan Lindsey and state Rep. Joey Andrews unveil the memorial marker
HActor Sam Elliott appearing at ‘Prancer Palooza’
BY STAN MADDUX
ollywood actor Sam Elliott is coming to La Porte and nearby Three Oaks, Michigan, where a Christmas movie he played the leading role in 35 years ago was filmed.
His appearance will be part of an anniversary celebration for “Prancer, “which still appears on TV screens during the holidays.
“I’m looking forward to seeing him,” said John Hancock, who was the director of the film.
Hancock, who lives in northern La Porte County, said the celebration will include a playing of the movie at Vickers Theatre and parade in Three Oaks Dec. 14.
The movie will be shown in La Porte on Dec. 15 at the Civic Auditorium.
He said Elliott and some of the surviving members of the cast will be at each location.
Hancock said there will also be a question-andanswer session between the actors, himself and members of the audience.
Initially, he said Elliott was receptive to coming but hesitant to commit so early to the event judging from his talks with the veteran movie star’s agent in recent weeks.
Hancock said the 80-year-old Elliott gave in, though, once La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody began making phone calls to his handlers.
“He just wouldn’t take no for an answer and, finally, Sam decided to come. I had given up but Dermody is a persistent guy,” he said.
In the 1989 movie, Elliott plays John Riggs, a grieving widowed father, whose apple farm outside La Porte has fallen on hard times.
Fearing he’ll be unable to provide for his 8-year-old daughter, Jessica, he considers having his deceased wife’s sister take care of her but later changes his mind.
At one point, the girl discovered an injured reindeer she named Prancer in the barn on the family farm and nurses the animal back to health.
The movie ends with the girl looking on in amazement as Prancer reunites with the reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh landing at the farm and joins them for takeoff.
Hancock said he directed the film at the request of his wife, who felt it would become a classic during the Christmas season.
“It turned out to be. She was right,” he said.
The movie also featured late Hollywood legends Cloris Leachman and Abe Vigoda.
Hancock said other cast members coming include Rebecca Harrell Tickell, who was nominated for Best Young Actress for her performance as Jessica in the film.
Dermody said his determination stemmed from a desire to make the occasion even more memorable for Hancock and the community since the movie remains very much in the hearts of him and many residents.
“We weren’t going to settle for anything less,” he said.
Since the Civic Auditorium is owned by the city, Dermody said his administration is working with Hancock on things like cost of admission and time of the celebration.
“I think people will be excited. We’re going to pack the Civic and enjoy a special evening or a special afternoon,” he said.
Hancock, 85, spent his childhood between the home of his parents in Chicago and their fruit farm in La Porte County.
He was put on the Hollywood map as director of the 1973 movie, “Bang the Drum Slowly,” which was about two baseball players becoming close after one of them was diagnosed with cancer.
After “Prancer,” Hancock made several other movies in the immediate area.
“It’s such a great place to make a movie. It was a great thrill to work where I grew up,” he said.
SCHOLASTICS
Martinic hired as New Buffalo’s food service director
BY FRANCESA SAGALA
Members of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education approved the hiring of a new food service director at their Monday, Oct. 14, meeting.
Susan Martinic, who was hired pending background approval, will be replacing Patty Iazzetto, who will be resigning after 22 years as director Nov. 19.
Superintendent Adam Bowen said that the district had the posting for the position up for a while, and that four candidates were interviewed.
Currently, Martinic works in food services at Berrien Springs Public Schools. She’s also worked at South Bend Chocolate Company, Panera Bread and at her longtime personal catering business.
“I think, with all those experiences and then also working at Berrien Springs, she’ll be able to give us a good insight,” Bowen said.
Martinic, who was scheduled to begin working at New Buffalo the next day, will be working with Iazzetto for the next month.
Board members adopted a resolution for National School Lunch Week, which was Oct. 14-18.
Board members approved
employing Carolyn Fortunato as student advocate for middle/high school, pending background approval. Previously, Fortunato had taught Social Studies at New Buffalo for four years. The annual summer tax resolution was adopted. Bowen said that the district has received a certificate for being ranked 10th best school district in Michigan by Niche. com.
Board members learned of Bowen’s approval of the following hires: middle school boys basketball, seventh gradeKevin Ebbeson and eighth grade - Conner Lijewski; middle school girls basketball, seventh grade - Natalie Walter; high school boys basketball, freshman - Adam Forker, junior varsity - Nate Tripp Jr and varsity - Nate Tripp Sr. and high school girls basketball, which will be hired by lead school River Valley.
A “Meet the NBAS Board Candidates” will be held at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 18 and 25, at David’s Deli in New Buffalo. Incumbents Jennifer Summers, Greg Vosberg, Stephen Donnelly, Vanessa Thun and John Haskins will be on the upcoming Nov. 5 ballot.
SPORTS
From the Bleachers
COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO
This story begins 86 years ago when an eight-year-old boy who loved baseball wanted to stay home from school, so he could watch a World Series game between the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers. His mom strongly denied his request so he had to come up with an alternate plan.
Back in those days, we went home for lunch every day, and it usually took me about 20 minutes to get home, 20 minutes to get back, and 15 minutes to eat.
When the World Series started, I ran out of school, took a shortcut through a prairie, got home in five minutes, and ate my sandwich in front of the television. My lunch hour was from noon to one, and because all the games were played on the east coast, the games began at Noon.
No World Series games were played at night until 1971.
Some similarities between then and now, were that the Yankees and Dodgers were at the top of their leagues, while the Cubs were in sixth (out of eight) place, and a whopping 26 games behind the Dodgers.
I’m reminiscing about these things because Chicago’s baseball teams were so disappointing this year, and the Yankees, Mets, and Dodgers are back on top.
The Tigers and Padres made valiant efforts, but fell short but their fans at least had fun. Back in the 1955 World Series, when a kid could dream about someday being a major leaguer himself, the stars were on parade.
The Yankees sported Hall of Famer’s
Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Phil Rizzuto, and Whitey Ford and the Dodgers responded with Sandy Koufax, Jackie Robinson, Duke Snyder, Gil Hodges, Roy Campanella, and Pee Wee Reese.
That’s 10 future Hall of Famers in one series. The MVP for the series was pitcher Johnny Podres, the Brooklyn pitcher who won game three and pitched a shutout in the deciding game seven.
For the first time in history, the games were broadcast in color, and, if we had a color television, it would have been fun to see.
Finally, my third grade teacher turned out to be a big baseball fan, too, and he brought a television set into the classroom and let us watch the end of the final game. He obviously was my favorite.
Over the years, I became more of a home town fan, and became jealous of the New York and California teams, but in 1955 they inspired me and helped form me into a lifelong baseball fan.
I must mention the Bears. Caleb Williams led them to their third straight victory on Sunday, and you can feel the excitement in the air. There’s a lot of very difficult games remaining, but it appears that the team will be competitive and it will be a very entertaining season.
Tom Waits wrote and sang, “That we toast to the old days and DiMaggio, too/ And old Drysdale and Mantle, Whitey Ford and to you.”
Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.
I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. — Leonardo da Vinci
Raiders solid at times in Homecoming football loss
BY STAN MADDUX
The Red Arrow Raiders are still looking for their first actual victory of the season after losing at home Friday, October 11 to one of the best high school football teams in the state.
The Raiders lost to Northpointe Christian 56-30 during homecoming at New Buffalo High School.
The Mustangs are ranked No. 4 among Division 2 teams in the state for 8 man football.
“We went on that scoring binge to make it a fun, interesting game. We just couldn’t sustain it defensively,” said Raiders Head Coach Matt Johnson.
Offensively, the Raiders struggled to move the ball in the first half.
One of their few first downs before halftime was set up by a seven yard run by quarterback Ethan Lijewski late in the first quarter
Lijewski after connecting with M’Nason Smothers on a pass for a two yard gain crossed the first down marker
on a short fourth down run.
Defensively, the Raiders looked impressive at times, including once when Kyran Collis sacked the quarterback on fourth down early in the second period.
The Raiders trailed 14-0 at the time, but the offense couldn’t swing that change in momentum in their favor on their next series of downs.
Ethan Lijewski did come up with a long punt that forced the offense for the Mustangs back to their own four yard line.
However, Northpointe Christian quickly made their way down the field with gains of 27 yards and 40 yards rushing on the first two plays of the drive.
At one point, the Raiders seem positioned to stop the drive when tackles by Collis and Trevor James forced the Mustangs to snap the ball on fourth down with eight yards to go for a
first down.
The Mustangs gained 14 yards on a quarterback keeper to allow their offense to stay on the field.
Eventually, quarterback Spencer Peterson ran the ball three yards into the end zone to extend the Mustangs lead to 22-0 after a two point conversion with just seconds remaining until halftime.
For a moment, it seemed like the Raiders would score with no time left on the clock when M’Nason Smothers after gaining 50 yards on the kick-off was tackled just before he could totally break free.
The Raiders (1-6) were much more explosive on offense during the second half but the Mustangs still cruised to victory.
The first score for the Raiders came from Smothers catching a pass in stride for a 66 yard touchdown late in the third
quarter.
“That kind of started a little bit of a rally for us,” Johnson said.
Lucas Forker, Adams Slavens and Collis later caught touchdown passes.
The Raiders moved to within 18 points late in the fourth quarter but the Mustangs sealed the victory by recovering an onside kick then scoring one more touchdown.
Johnson said his team began moving the ball much better once the offensive line started blocking more effectively, which gave Lijewski additional time to wait for his receivers to get open and move, when necessary, out of the pocket.
The only victory for the Raiders came on a forfeit by Tri-Unity Christian, which could not field enough players this season.
The Raiders play at home again Friday this time at River Valley High School against Eau Claire.
Bison celebrate Homecoming 2024
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Students at New Buffalo High School celebrated the musical greats of past and present during this year’s Homecoming celebration.
Students participated in the traditional contest for golf carts, which were decked out for this year’s theme, “Albums.” Winners of the contest were as follows: first place, freshman, with their Prince’s “Purple Rain”-themed cart; second place, seniors, with their Kanye West’s “Graduation”-themed cart; third place, sophomores, for their Tyler the Creator’s “Flower Boy” cart and fourth place, the junior’s Travis Scott’s “AstroWorld”-themed cart.
Students dressed up for different themed days throughout Spirit Week, which was Monday through Thursday, Oct. 7-10. Winners of the overall Spirit competition were first place, seniors; second place, freshmen; third place, sophomores and fourth place, juniors.
The week culminated in the Red Arrow Raiders’ game against Northpointe Christian, with Xochitl Hernandez and Ava Totzke being crowned homecoming queens and Erik Gaeta being crowned king.
The traditional tug of war commences at Thursday’s pep rally
Cheerleaders rile the crowd Friday night
Sophomores celebrate their win at the powderpuff football game
Students cheer on the Raiders Friday night
Students compete in a hula hoop race during the pep rally
The high school band performs at Thursday’s pep rally
The Bison mascot supervises the games at Thursday’s pep rally
Students play traditional games at Thursday’s pep rally
The female half of the student population competes in powderpuff football
Members of the Homecoming Court arrive at the multiplex field
The seniors’ Graduation themed golf cart drives around track
Students compete in scooter races at Thursday’s pep rally
Homecoming Queens Ava Totzke and Xochitl Hernandez with King Erick Gaeta
Elementary students compete against the football team in tug of war at the pep rally
Seniors Addy Lamport, Riley Tertel and Ellen Ripley receive the Spirit Jug
Elementary students accept handouts during Thursday’s pep rally
Chili cook-off packed with newcomers, returning favorites
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Anewcomer to the chili cook-off scene took center stage at the 18th annual chili cook-off at Skip’s Restaurant and Catering in New Buffalo Sunday, Oct. 13.
Placing first this year in the Judge’s Awards division was Waterford Inn II, with kitchen manager Aiden Hernandez saying their chili recipe was a mixture of prime rib, beefsteak and ground beef.
“So, it’s a mixture of meats in there,” he said, adding that the recipe is often served in their La Porte restaurant.
A few weeks ago, Waterford took second place for their Gator Mac at Dig the Dunes’ Mac and Cheese Fest. Second place went to Matt Mizia, a home cook who was also a newcomer to the cook-off. Barndogg Lounge and Bar, which opened last month in Union Pier, took third place honors with their white, nontraditional chili.
Placing first in the People’s Choice division was returning chef Alyssa Brake. Second place went to Barndogg and third place honors went to returning favorites Chris and Michelle Hebron of Hebron Farms.
Chris said that they collaborated with other Skip’s Farmers Market vendors, using cheese from J2 Capraio and cornbread from Lulu’s Cupcake Creations, as well as their own pork, vegetables and Greek yogurt, to concoct their Market Chili.
He said they’ve participated in the chili cook-off for the past four to five years.
“We love it - we do the market all season, so this is a way to give back to our customers at the end of the season,” Chris said.
Other contenders for this year’s cook-off were Darci Garner, last year’s People’s Choice winner; Darell Kettring and Eryka Leigh, Skip’s chili legends with 17 years of experience; New Buffalo Township Fire Department, who are former champs; Sarah Sass, one of Skip’s chefs, who went up against her own culinary team and Skips Restaurant and Catering, who were there to defend their home turf.
Rhonda Sobecki, owner/partner at Skip’s, said that more than 100 gallons of chili was consumed by guests in two-ounce samples in less than four hours.
“We can say with 100 percent certainty that our 18th annual chili cook-off experienced the highest attendance this year than ever before,” she said.
This year’s line-up of judges were Atley Price, a semi-retired prosecutor; Harry Hausoul, a retired food chemist; Paul Lawson, proprietor of Lawson Dental Laboratory and professional photographer and Kelli Kemp, a foodie, restaurateur and pasta chef at Albano’s.
“They took their judging responsibilities very seriously and we were very appreciative of their efforts,” she said.
Sobecki added that she’d like to give a “huge thank you to everyone for supporting our events and our efforts and a big thank you to everyone who supports our farmers market all season long.”
“We had a fantastic season and we’re already looking forward to next year,” she said.
The chili cook-off marked the grand finale to the 16th season of the farmers market, which runs from mid-May to mid-October at Skip’s.
The Generation Gap Band provides the entertainment Judges rate the chili
Mike Plis and John Conlin and Ashley Munson represent the New Buffalo Township Fire Department
Terry Stoklosa and tyler Mantei serve of Barndogg Lounge chili
Elouise Allen enjoys the cook-off
Aiden Hernandez and Ryan Jones of Waterford Inn II display their trophy
Alyssa Brake serves up her chili
Aaron and Cathy Jedlo enjoy the chili
Enjoying the last day of the farmers market
Chris Hebron serves up some chili
Guests sample chili underneath the tent
James Garner stirs Dana Garner’s chili entry
CALVARYCHAPELNB.ORG
We are a non-denominational church teaching through the bible line by line
Sunday service 1015 ET
Thursday bible study 7pm ET
Saturday men’s bible study 915 ET in person and zoom
Saturday women’s bible study 1030 ET on zoom 1615 E Buffalo St. New Buffalo, Mi
Plans for second, larger lodge along Stone Lake
BY STAN MADDUX
Plans for another lodge for use by the public on Stone Lake in La Porte were unveiled Monday, Oct. 14.
The construction will happen sooner than expected because of a $500,000 contribution by Ken and Karen Bowers, retired longtime residents of the city now spending their winters in Florida.
The couple has also committed to providing an undisclosed amount of funds to help with future maintenance.
A ground breaking was planned at the site along the southern edge of Stone Lake close to the public boat launch across from Lions Field, but threatening skies moved what turned out to be a celebration inside Cummings Lodge.
Mr. Bowers thanked Mayor Tom Dermody, the park board and everyone else involved in the plans and deciding to name the facility “Bowers Family Lodge.”
“To us, this is just another great step and it is a big step in the future of the new lodge on Stone Lake in our memory,” he said.
La Porte Parks Department
Superintendent Mark Schreiber said the projected cost of construction is from $2.5 to $3 million.
Tentatively, plans call for the lodge to contain 6,800 square feet of space or room to house as many as 250 people for weddings, family reunions and other gatherings or activities.
Schreiber said Cummings Lodge built in 1966 on the opposite side of Stone Lake with a capacity for 88 people will remain available for similar, smaller scale functions.
The design has not been finalized but the lodge will have a rustic look on the outside and inside to reflect its natural surroundings.
“We want people to see the trees. We want people to see the lake. Even when you’re inside it, we want you to be able to feel those amenities around you,” he said.
He said the new lodge is in response to public demand for a facility accommodating larger crowds especially when calendar dates are booked for gatherings at the spacious municipally owned Civic Auditorium.
Attempts will be made to secure outside sources of revenue such as grants to help pay for construction to reduce as much as possible the amount the city will be asked to finance.
“We’d like to lower the cost as much as we can for the taxpayers,” he said.
He said money from fees for use of the lodge could also go toward the financing.
A new lodge was already included in the park department’s new five year master plan when Bowers approached several months ago with a desire to leave something in his will to do something for the parks.
Schreiber said consensus was reached on Bowers helping to pay for a new lodge to build upon the success the city has had in promoting and improving what’s offered at its lakes and parks more in recent years to improve quality of life for residents and attract visitors.
Both sides were also unanimous on where it should be placed.
Dermody called the monetary gift “amazing.”
“We’re just excited they wanted to invest their funds, their money into the city of La Porte,” he said.
Judge reverses decision for third time in defamation case
BY STAN MADDUX
Ajudge has reversed his decision for the third time in less than a month in a bitter civil defamation case between former La Porte County attorney Shaw Friedman and La Porte County Auditor Tim Stabosz that, ultimately, could be taken to the Indiana Supreme Court.
Judge Stevens Bowers from Elkhart County on Friday, Oct. 11, ordered a new trial again.
He was a special judge brought in to preside over the case in La Porte Circuit Court to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest since Stabosz and Friedman were both public figures at the time.
Friedman was the attorney for the La Porte County Commissioners in 2021, when he filed the lawsuit alleging Stabosz damaged his reputation by repeatedly claiming he ran county government by gaining control of key decision makers.
On June 28, a jury sided with Stabosz, who argued his claims about Friedman were based on sufficient evidence.
About three months later, Bowers agreed with Friedman in his request for a new trial.
Bowers ruled the jury was presented with incorrect information about Indiana defamation law to consider in reaching its decision.
Had the jury been given the right information, the plaintiffs argued the decision could have favored Friedman who claimed Stabosz wanting to benefit politically acted with malice and in reckless disregard of the truth.
The following week, Bowers siding with the defense reinstated the jury’s decision.
This time, Bowers ruled he was three days late in ordering a new trial under a state mandated deadline for him to act on Friedman’s appeal within 30 days.
In his latest ruling, Bowers agreed with the plaintiffs who argued the new trial order should stand unless overturned by the Indiana Court of Appeals based on previous rulings by the Indiana Supreme Court on late decided cases.
“The appellate court gets all of the issues and then hears what everybody has to say and makes the decision,” said Bill Jonas, an attorney from South Bend representing Friedman.
Jonas also said any appeal will have to be filed by Stabosz, who would have the burden of proof to show why a new trial should not be ordered.
Andrew Jones, an attorney from South Bend representing Stabosz, offered no opinion about the judge’s latest ruling but felt it was time for a fresh set of eyes to decide what he described as a very technical matter.
“We’ve had so much back and forth since the trial, I think now would be an appropriate time for the court of appeals to weigh in,” he said.
Jones also said he was not surprised where the hotly contested legal dispute is heading.
“It was a situation where no matter what happened at trial, either side was likely to appeal an unfavorable verdict,” he said.
Jones said he anticipates the Indiana Supreme Court being asked to render a final decision by whoever loses the appellate court challenge.
ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19
HOROSCOPE
OCTOBER 17-23, 2024
AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT
This is a very fast paced yet sensitive time for Aries. There are heavy influences at work this week, that will deepen your experiences and intensify your relationships with society at large. Use this vibe to improve your social standing and advance your reputation for the better.
TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20
The energy this week will bring opportunities to make positive changes in your relationships. So be sure to honor your feelings, and speak openly about what you want. When you make changes to your behavior that is more in line with your ethical stance, you will feel much lighter.
GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21
The work you do will have a deeper purpose, and you will get a lot out of helping others now. Commitments will intensify quickly now and working with someone else could bring the two of you much closer. Your energy levels will improve also, but it’s up to you to keep it going.
CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22
The vibe coming in for you now, is filled with fun and excitement. You will feel this mostly in your relationships and one on one dealings. This may be the time when you realize you have romantic feelings for someone or that you would be happy in a committed relationship.
LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22
Address any domestic or family issues directly. Don’t let misunderstanding get blown out of proportion and more importantly, don’t let repair work slide. This is the time when making changes will be easy. If you wait, you may have a bigger mess to deal with.
VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22
This is a great week to relax and have fun with friends. You may hear from old school chums or reconnect with someone from the old neighborhood. Make the effort to get relationships into a more vivacious place. There may be some past trauma or heartache to deal with.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22
You will have some wonderful opportunities to make your home more luxurious and cozy this week. Now is the time to shop for those big-ticket items or find those unique, one-of-a-kind items, at those out of the way resale shops. You never know what gems await you out there.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21
We are coming into your season, where things go bump in the night and all kinds of strange and wonderful things materialize out of nowhere, as if from magic. Embrace the intensity you have by speaking your truth and honoring the greater purpose. It’s time to go for it.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER22—DECEMBER21
Pay attention to your dreams and intuition now. If there are things you have been working hard at trying to solve or complete, perhaps you will find the answer in the dreamtime. This is a perfect time to release or pull back. There is a sense of fulfillment in letting go now.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19
Your social life will come alive this week and opportunities to connect are in the making. This is the time when you could feel some strong past life influences. So, meeting new people could bring up some intense feelings or instant connections. Interesting times ahead.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18
You may be working with some different healing modalities or differing philosophical views this week, and even though they may require some adjusting to, your mental and emotional states will greatly improve. There is great value in approaching things from a different angle.
PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20
You will realize a deeper purpose to some of your friendships this week. Even some of your superficial acquaintances may prove to be of great value this week. Keep your eyes open and look deeper into your connections with others. People around you will be a great inspiration now.
OBITUARIES
Dianne “Dee” Jelinek 1948-2024
Dianne “Dee” Jelinek, 76, passed away Thursday, October 10, 2024, in the loving care of her family. Her life began February 2, 1948, the youngest daughter of Dayle E. and Marjorie (Frost) Weller. Dee graduated from Three Oaks High School in 1966. She attended Michigan State University for three years and completed her bachelor’s degree at Eckert College in St. Petersburg, Florida. She pursued her master’s degree at Western Michigan University.
After 16 years working at The Bank of Three Oaks, Dee moved to Florida, where she was the Executive Director of The Treasure Island Chamber of Commerce. She organized thousands of volunteers who built the World’s Largest Sandcastle (Guinness Book) in 1986. She had been one of the founding members of the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce before moving to Florida. Dee returned to Three Oaks in 1991 as Vice President of Harbor Country Banking Company. She taught business classes at Michiana College (now Brown Mackie) in South Bend and retired from the college as Director of Business Programs in 2010. She had the privilege of caring for her parents for 30 years.
Dee is survived by her loving husband, Senator Ron Jelinek; beloved son, Jamie (Summer) Hollenbeck; stepdaughter, Jill (Jesse) Glossinger; grandchildren, Ben Hollenbeck, Jack Hollenbeck, Owen Glossinger, Bryce Glossinger; niece, Brita Lumis; nephew, Eric Lumis; and many cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Rebecca; sister, Daylene Lumis; and brother, Wayne Weller.
Dee was blessed with many dear friends, including her best life-long friend, Kate Benington, her wonderful knitting chicks, her church family, and her Florida friends.
She enjoyed Torch Lake, boating, and traveling to Tractor Shows & Antique Car activities with Ron and all the friends they made along the way.
Dee’s caring and cheerful personality will be missed by the family and friends she adored. She shared her optimistic faith with all she met.
Family and friends gathered Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks. A funeral service was held Monday, October 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in Maple Grove United Methodist Church, 6655 East 1000 North, New Carlisle, Indiana.
Dee will be laid to rest in Forest Lawn Cemetery.
The family prefers contributions in memory of Dee be made to Maple Grove United Methodist Church 6655 East 1000 North, New Carlisle, Indiana 46552 or The Region of Three Oaks Museum, 5 Featherbone Avenue, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online at www. wagnercares.com.
PET OF THE WEEK
BARREL
Barrel is a cute kitten at almost 3-months-old, and his personality matches the cuteness level of his face. He is currently living with a couple of his littermates, and he loves to cuddle close to them. Barrel is somewhat comfortable being handled, and once he settles in, he starts to purr and relax into the love a little bit. So far, he seems to be cat-, child-, and dog-friendly. He would love to find an adopter who will keep building his confidence. Barrel is neutered, and up-to-date with his vaccinations, and prefers playing with feathery wand toys.
Three Oaks celebrates Oaktoberfest
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
October was celebrated Three Oaks-style during the second annual Oaktoberfest, which took place Friday through Sunday, Oct. 11-13, at American Legion Post 204 in Three Oaks.
Guests danced to a line up of local and regional bands, enjoyed German cuisine, which included brats from Drier’s Meat Market and sampled the Oktoberfest style beers. Reclaiming the title of winner of this year’s Battle of the Brewmasters was Dale Van Derra from Ghost Isle Brewery, with runners-up being Watermark Brewing Co. and Journeyman Distillery’s Sea of Monsters.
Oaktoberfest benefitted River Valley Mustang Foundation, a volunteer, nonprofit organization consisting of parents and educators that supports River Valley Schools.
Emcee Three Oaks Village Manager Dan Faulkner (left) participates in the official barrel tapping ceremony
Mark and Merrily Brannigan and Diana Bryniarski
The Phenix performs at Oaktoberfest
Families enjoy a carnival at Oaktoberfest
Members of the Three Oaks and River Valley royalty with members of the Chicago Mardi Gras Associaton
Guests enjoy food and beer underneath the big tent
Guests dance to polka music underneath the big tent
