December 8, 2022

Marquette Greenway fundraising’s $300,000 year-end goal reached in only 40 days PAGE 5

A Drawing Room’s ‘A Back Room’ highlighted at mixer PAGES 6-7

Young Bison show potential in season opening loss PAGE 8 Enjoying the ‘Sounds of the Season’ at holiday singalong PAGE 10

New Buffalo resident’s children’s book takes readers on daylong journey of the area

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

What started as what she called a “pandemic project”

soon morphed into Regan Keating becoming a first-time children’s book author.

A resident of New Buffalo, Keating has recently selfpublished “Good Day, Harbor Country!,” which is a picture book that highlights –through poetry and pictures – what it is that makes the area so special.

“I kind of did it with the idea that it’s a day in a way – so following the morning, afternoon, evening but then it’s also following the seasons and going through the different areas of Harbor Country,” she said.

This includes highlighting not only the beach but also Red Arrow Highway, the orchards that blanket the area and the farms.

“I tried to touch on the different places - with a kids’ twist to it,” she said.

The book is self-published through IngramSpark. Keating said she worked with illustrators, Heather Workman and Kathleen Andrews, through UpWork as well as an editor, Rebecca Michael.

She said Workman was living in Ann Arbor and wasn’t familiar with the area; however, she was able to depict the area accurately.

She credited Andrews for “finishing the last bits” as well as helping with the formatting.

While she grew up on the other side of the state (near Detroit), Keating has lived with her husband in Chicago for several years. While in Chicago, she didn’t “have my finger on the pulse of children’s books” because she didn’t have any children yet; however, she was drawn to the “Goodnight Chicago” book.

“I just thought it was the super cutest thing ever – and then bought it for every baby shower or kid birthday party that I was ever invited to,” she said.

After she and her husband had kids, Keating said she started receiving “Goodnight Oregon” and Goodnight Beach” from other people as

gifts for her children

Seeing the books lit a spark in her to try something similar with where she lived.

“My husband and I talked about how we could have one for Harbor Country just because we’re crazy about where we live and that there’s so much that you can incorporate into that,” Keating said.

For a living, Keating works in human resources and writes policy manuals. (“They don’t rhyme,” she said.)

She did indulge in creative pursuits as a child, though.

“A lot of adults, myself included, don’t really have tons of time to dedicate to more creative endeavors – it just wasn’t really something I’ve ever done before,” she said.

Keating said she used to always take her two boys, Wyatt and Whelan, to Oselka Park – which is one of the many familiar landmarks that readers will spot among the book’s pages - when they first moved to New Buffalo, since it was right across from where they lived.

As for her sons’ opinion on the book, Keating said she dedicated the book to them and their likeness is on the last page, so “that got me some credibility with them.”

She often consulted them on if they agreed with how her editor thought the wording could be reworked and “which way do you like it rhyming better.”

“I would come back to her (Rebecca Michael, her editor) and say, ‘I like that idea, but Wyatt likes it this way’ and she’d always say, ‘That’s the most important thing - he’s your audience,” Keating said.

“Good Day, Harbor Country!” is available on Amazon. Readers can also find it at The Kids Stop in New Buffalo, the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce office in Three Oaks and Sawyer Garden Center.

New Buffalo Township Library will be hosting an author talk and story time of her book, which will be available for sale and signings, at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12.

Regan Keating poses with her book on North Whittaker Street in New Buffalo

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Joint New Buffalo Township Board and Planning Commission meeting discusses draft marijuana zoning amendment

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO JOHN HUMPHREY, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL

MARK ROBERTSON, ROGER LIJESKI, JOHN HUMPHREY, BRIAN FLANAGAN, VANCE PRICE

City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION

MEETINGS

to be determined

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD

PETE RAHM, MICHELLE HEIT, JUDY H. ZABICKI, PATTY IAZZETTO, JACK ROGERS Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7PM

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM

NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD

FRANK MAGRO, LISA WERNER, HEATHER BLACK, DENISE CHURCHILL, BRADLEY BURNER, VANESSA THUN

CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD

DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, BILL MARSKE

Chikaming Board meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM

CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM

THREE OAKS

THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM

VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM

GRAND BEACH Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7PM MARY ROBERTSON, CLERK DEBORAH LINDLEY, BLAKE O’HALLORAN, JAMES BRACEWELL, PETER DOERR, PAUL LEONARD, JR. MICHIANA

VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Members of the New Buffalo Township Board and the Planning Commission reviewed a draft zoning amendment regarding marijuana establishments and overlay at a special joint meeting Wednesday, Nov. 30.

Board members had filled out a survey for attorney Laura Genovich of Foster, Swift, Collins and Smith PC (who was present at the joint meeting), to start drafting a marijuana ordinance for the township at their October meeting.

The regulatory ordinance addresses which license types to allow, the application process, consumption rules and any penalties for violations.

The planning commission will be giving a recommendation to the township board regarding the zoning ordinance amendment. Heit said that “if or when that happens,” the zoning amendment will go to the township board and there will be a public hearing, during which the township board will vote on both the regulatory ordinance and zoning amendment.

1,000 feet of existing public or private K-12 schools, church licensed daycare centers or public libraries. Buffers will be measured from structure to structure.

Genovich said the amendment could also include language that states that facilities or establishments “may not be on a parcel that abuts the R-1, R-2 or MR zoning district” and that a “parcel does not abut these districts if there’s a highway or railroad.”

Saying that the process is “two-fold,” New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that there’s a regulatory ordinance through the township board and a zoning amendment. The zoning amendment includes operational requirements “to fill in any gaps in state laws,” such as odor, hours of operation, special land use requirements and criteria to identify eligible parcels.

If it’s a county or township road that separates them then they are abutting them; however, if it’s a freeway or highway or railroad, they aren’t.

Board members and planners agreed to change a part of the draft zoning amendment from stating that “collaborative facilities or establishments are prohibited unless faculties or establishments on parcels are owned by the same person or entity to “collaborative faculties or establishments are permitted if approved by the state of Michigan.”

The township doesn’t have any control over billboards, as they’re mostly on highways and regulated by the state.

Also being proposed is allowing up to Class C for grows and that there be no stacked grower licenses.

Heit said that two joint meetings have already been held with regards to locations of dispensaries in the proposed overlay.

With regards to U.S. 12 from the city to the state line and along Grand Avenue, board members and planners agreed that retail could be allowed in both Industrial zoned parcels and C-1 districts. Other establishments, such as grow, processing and safety compliance facilities, could be allowed in Industrial districts.

With regards Exit 1 and Harbor Country Drive, retail establishments could be allowed in the Holiday Drive area, which is in the Harbor Country Drive overlay, and on Harbor Country Drive. Retail could also be allowed south of I-94 to the state line, which is all C-1 and C-2.

Regarding the Exit Four area, which could be on both sides of U.S. 12 to Hoder Road, retail establishments and microbusinesses could be allowed.

Planners will set a public hearing on the proposed amendment for possibly their Jan. 3 meeting for the ordinance before recommending it to the board.

Regarding buffers, the proposed language in the zoning ordinance amendment could read that facilities or establishments - medical and adult use of any kind - may not be located within

With regards to signage that businesses would be allowed to put up, it was agreed that the regulations set forth in the signage ordinance does apply.

The Berrien County Planning Commission will be need 30 days to review the proposed amendment (although that board doesn’t have any veto power and can’t make any decisions), so township board won’t make any decisions until February.

Democracy Requires Transparency

The best of healers is good cheer. — Pindar

Marquette Greenway

fundraising’s $300,000 year-end goal reached in only 40 days

The goal to raise the remaining balance of the $5.6 million needed for the four-mile Michigan portion of the Marquette Greenway has been met just six weeks into fundraising efforts.

Launched Nov. 3 at a highly successful give-back dinner (hosted by Bentwood Tavern in New Buffalo), the evening secured a surprise $120,000 matching challenge grant by an anonymous donor. In addition to hundreds of private donations, another generous donation of $100,000 was received from a family foundation, which helped the fundraising team meet its $300,000 goal a month before its year-end target date.

Diane Pyshos, the give-back dinner event organizer and a project volunteer involved with the Marquette Greenway since 2017, is ecstatic.

“For over 17 years, volunteers and planning officials in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois have worked tirelessly to overcome numerous physical, financial and sometimes community obstacles in order find a way to connect these three states and multiple communities by a single, non-motorized path along the bottom of Lake Michigan. It has not been easy, but we persevered, and the end is in sight. This is now a community vision,” she said.

“People really want this trail, and it shows,” Pyshos added.

“We are beyond excited,” said Marquette Greenway Fundraising Chair Gary Wood, president of Friends of Berrien County Trails, which is

acting as fiduciary for the fundraising effort. “The challenge grant made all the difference in the world for us. More than 200 individual and family foundations donations met the match for this cause and our goal was reached within a few weeks. We are overwhelmed by the support this important walking/biking trail has received from our community.”

Phase I of the four-mile Michigan portion of the trail from New Buffalo to Grand Beach will be completed by 2024, and Phase II along Grand Beach Road is expected to be completed in 2025.

The Michigan portion of Marquette Greenway has already received over $5.3 million in federal, state, municipal and foundation grants, including nearly $800,000 from The Pokagon Fund and $300,000 from New Buffalo Township and the City of New Buffalo. The entire 60-mile, tri-state trail from Chicago is expected to be completed by 2027.

The Michigan portion of Marquette Greenway is sponsored and supported by the 501(c)(3) Friends of Berrien County Trails, a citizenbased nonprofit striving to connect Berrien County to a network of trails (pedestrian, biking and waterways) and encouraging their use. All contributions are tax deductible and can still be made atwww. berrientrails.org/support.asp.

Sobriety celebrated at drug court graduation

BY STAN MADDUX

There was no shortage of positive change during a Monday. Dec. 5, ceremony for graduates of a program turning people behind bars from substance abuse into law abiding productive citizens in LaPorte County.

An audience of about 100 people applauded when learning one new graduate has just become a licensed heating and cooling system specialist.

“You are living proof that some people change,” said La Porte County Superior Court 4 Judge Greta Friedman, who was the main speaker during the one hour ceremony.

Friedman also oversees the LaPorte County Problem Solving Court, which offers the five-stage substance abuse program focused more on providing a second chance at life than incarceration.

The four graduates, whose names were not disclosed to protect their privacy, completed what’s typically an 18 to 24-month program that requires more than staying clean.

Participants must take part in treatment, three self-help meetings a week and show up for regular appointments with their case managers and progress hearings.

There have been 84 people who have graduated since the problem-solving court was established in 2012.

Friedman said non-violent offenders turning to felony crimes like drug possession and theft to support their addictions are typically chosen for the program.

People must also be considered at medium to high risk of reoffending to qualify.

One of the speakers was a past graduate who said positive change results from within once applying the teachings about a “whole new way of living.”

She said the knowledge must be practiced on a regular basis even after completing the program to maintain

the benefits, like a positive outlook and avoid relapse.

“Today I have confidence and I have strength. Every single day, I am grateful for a whole new day. Life is so beautiful today. A life worth living,” she said.

After the ceremony, new graduate Elizabeth Ashby of LaPorte agreed to discuss her journey from years of alcohol abuse to sobriety.

Ashby, 38, said she was in an abusive relationship for years and drinking was the only way she knew how to cope with her emotions.

She was introduced to the program following her second arrest for operating while intoxicated.

“I was a shell of a person before all of this. Now, I’m just full of gratitude and love. It saved my life,” she said.

Vern Hohnke, chief courthouse security officer for the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, told the graduates to be thankful for the program.

He said his daughter was a former honor student from a good family, who started her downslide after first experimenting with drugs.

She was 31 when she died from an overdose in 2015.

Hohnke said she was arrested prior to her death and might be alive today if the county where she was taken into custody offered something similar to its offenders.

He now makes himself readily available to people in the program to share his story and if they simply to talk.

“Like I told each and every one of you, you got kids at home? That’s what you’re leaving behind. You got parents at home? That’s what you’re leaving behind. It’s not an easy row to hoe but you’ll get through it. I’m proud of you guys for making it,” he said.

A Drawing Room’s ‘A Back Room’ highlighted at mixer

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Since first opening it in 2019, Thomas Allen Pauly has found even more ways to incorporate the artistic spirit that’s infiltrated Three Oaks over the years into his gallery, A Drawing Room.

“There may have been a few people before that came three and a half years ago when I had one of these – I think it looks a little different than when you came here before,” Pauly said to members of the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce, who’d gathered in the gallery for their holiday mixer Thursday, Dec. 1.

Recently, A Drawing Room debuted the Back Room, which features a dynamic mix of both representational and abstract paintings, prints, photography and sketches.

The room, which is in the back of the gallery, was once a television room for when Pauly and his partner, Marco Chavarry (who owns Alapash New Home on Elm Street and Alapash Mercantile across from The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts), were having their house redone and were renting the upstairs apartment.

During Art Attack this past spring, Pauly was renting a tiny room for the Annex Gallery (at 13 North Elm Street) to display even more artwork when he realized that he could move everything into the back room and expand his original gallery.

“’This room here is as big as the tiny room, so let’s just make this part of the gallery,’” he said to himself.

The Back Room opened the previous weekend, in time for

Three Oaks’ annual Snowflake Stroll. Pauly said he had about 100 people walk through A Drawing Room’s doors and sold four paintings.

The 132-year-old building is a place for Pauly to create his works of art as well as to display a curated collection of equestrian artworks. On library bookshelves, guests will also find racehorse art books and racing trophies, which are framed by jockey silks and leather saddles. Guests can relax at lounge areas, a large dining table and the original wood bar as they bask in the artwork.

Pictures that pertain to alcohol grace one wall of Back Room. A mural that was done by Pauly for a show a couple years ago in Indianapolis called the National Museum of Sport graces another one.

“They commissioned numerous artists, where they invited numerous artists to come out and do paintings dealing with motion,” Pauly said, adding that the 5 by 12-foot mural is the “biggest painting I’ve ever done.”

Pauly said he’s been doing portraits of racehorses and jockeys since June 17, 1978.

His friend’s father owned racehorses and took him and his friend to Sportsman’s Park, where his horse won – which allowed him and his friend into the winner’s circle.

“Two weeks later, we got the photograph, I did a painting of it, his dad bought it – and ever since then, I’ve been doing racehorses,” Pauly said.

Mixing and mingling in A Drawing Room

Guests mix and mingle in A Drawing Room

Rich Kochanny and Anna Simcox catch up in A Drawing Room

Chamber members do a Christmas toast at A Drawing Room

Amber Heilmann, Boden Boersma and David McNabb mix and and mingle at A Drawing Room

Chamber members do a Christmas toast

Pauly was the official artist of the American Pharaoh when he won the Triple Crown and got to follow him around the country with all three races. This included meeting him in his stall where Pauly said he was like a “little puppy dog – I have a picture of him with his head right over my shoulder, I’ve never seen such a gentler Thoroughbred in my life.” He was also the official artist of the 2006 Kentucky Derby portrait of Barbaro.

Pauly was the official artist of the Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby Bourbon Bottles, of which he did two, as well as their holiday bottle.

Since moving to Three Oaks from Chicago, Pauly’s deep love for the arts has spilled outside of the doors of his gallery. This past spring, he was instrumental in getting 28 locations in Three Oaks involved with Art Attack. The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts also jumped onboard, partnering with the Art Attack and sponsoring a big event.

“When I first came here, there was only one or two locations involved with Art Attack and I thought, ‘Wait, we’re supposed to be the cultural, artsy part of Harbor Country, we’ve got to get more here,” he said.

A Drawing Room is located at 9 N. Elm Street in Three Oaks.

In chamber news, Kimberlee Wendt, the chamber’s executive director, said that the chamber is currently recruiting members to sit on a three-month task force beginning in January to “formulate a new concept” for the area’s transportation as well as members to sit on the economic committee.

Production on the 2023 Harbor Country Guide has begun. Currently, the 2022 guide is being distributed from Traverse City to Ohio to Valparaiso through a new contract with a distribution company. Wendt said that they’ll continue to work with the same company in 2023 for “big reaches beyond this area.”

Guests check out A Back Room

Thomas Allen Pauly relaxes with his large mural in the background in A Back Room

A wall devoted to pictures pertaining to alcohol in A Back Room

Kimberlee Wendt (right) looks on as Thomas Allen Pauly welcomes everyone to A Drawing Room

Young Bison show potential in season opening loss

BY STAN MADDUX

The young New Buffalo High School boys’ basketball team showed real promise in losing the season opener at home Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Bison with just two seniors often had the lead but ran out of gas during the second half in falling to Decatur 45-35.

Decatur with four senior starters seemed to wear down the Bison, who had three freshmen on the court at times.

Head coach Nate Tripp said his team could have won the game if not for mistakes along with lack of stamina and size typical for first time varsity players.

“A lot of it is just a strength issue,” he said.

The Bison took the lead for the first time early in the first quarter when freshman Sam Tripp, after grabbing an offensive rebound close to the rim, put the ball back up and into the net.

New Buffalo regained the lead on a three point shot by Tripp.

The first quarter ended with the Bison leading 14-11 after freshman Nick Haskins hit a lay-up at the buzzer.

The Raiders, though, jumped out to a 10 point lead in the second quarter.

However, the Bison came roaring back with three quick buckets from beyond the three point stripe by Tripp and senior Landon Haskins before halftime.

At the start of the third quarter, New Buffalo went on a seven point run to take a 31-24 lead.

Junior Cameron Forker used his 6’2” and

280 pound frame to sink two lay-ups and Tripp dropped another three point shot into the net.

Tripp then made a free throw after stealing the ball at half court and being fouled while going up for a lay-up.

Decatur, after turning up the heat on defense, scored the next 17 points.

Much of the scoring during the Raiders’ run was a result of turnovers by the overwhelmed Bison, whose shooting also became ice cold.

Tripp led the Bison with 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Forker contributed six points while Landon Haskins scored five points.

Freshman James Shaw added four points.

Junior Elliot Bourne had three points along with six steals.

Right now, Tripp said his focus is more on the squad improving enough to have a chance at a fourth district title in his fifth year as coach.

He said his players need to get better in areas like consistency in running the offense and communicating with each other on the floor.

Tripp also said he was pleased at the level of play of his freshmen along with Bourne, who he believes can be more of a scorer.

“He’s got to get a little more confidence and shoot the ball. He can shoot that shot and he needs to shoot that shot,” he said.

From the Bleachers

COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

Itook a pleasant Sunday morning drive from Chicago to New Buffalo to pay a visit to The Sports Card Shop because the radio voice of the Cubs for the last 27 years, Pat Hughes, was going to be there signing scorecards, baseballs, posters, etc.

The event was to last for two hours, and I arrived a few minutes before the scheduled starting time. I walked in and was greeted warmly by the staff and fellow Pat Hughes fans, of which there were many. A long line snaked to the back of the shop, so I went to the back of the line and patiently waited for the line to move. Even though the shop was crowded, everyone was nice and polite and before long I was face to face with the iconic Cub sportscaster and newly elected member of the Cubs hall of fame. Pat couldn’t have been nicer as I took a moment of his time to praise him for the great job he does and he expressed his hopes for the Cubs to be contenders again.u

Mr. Hughes has been calling games for the Cubs longer than anyone except the legendary Jack Brickhouse. His compatibility with his radio partner Ron Santo was a thing of beauty, and that same feeling comes through with his current partner, Ron Coomer. Pat called the ground ball to Bryant who threw to Rizzo for the out that made the Cubs World Series champions, something I’ll never forget. By the way, before coming to Chicago, Pat worked with Bob Uecker in Milwaukee. If you don’t remember Bob, his catchphrase was “I must be in the front row”. So New Buffalo, if you’re into collecting memorabilia or just want to support a well run local business, pay a visit to Rex and Rick at The Sports Card Shop.

Aristotle said, “To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold.”

Be kind to one another. Keep smiling. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

I’m destined to become the greatest fighter the world has known. If I didn’t truly believe that I would go and teach or do something else. —Paddy Pimblett

Lady Bison struggling early in basketball season

BY STAN MADDUX

The New Buffalo High School girls’ basketball team is off to a rough start to the season. Head coach Dave Kelly feels things will get better from having players with a desire to learn and work hard to get better.

“I think we’ll get there. These girls are competitive. I like their competitive nature,” he said.

The Lady Bison opened the season Nov. 29 with a 75-14 loss at Brandywine then fell to River Valley 49-25 at home Friday, Dec.

2. New Buffalo was no match for the outside shooting from the Mustangs and the ability of their offense to move with the ball down the court.

The Lady Bison trailed 13-2 early in the second quarter but River Valley started to put the game away

with back to back three point shots from senior Alexis McCarty and junior Natalyn Heckathorn.

Another three point bucket from Heckathorn gave the Mustangs a 22 point lead.

The lead was cut to 16 points at halftime with help from senior Bella Notorangelo quickly sinking two short bank shots.

The Mustangs started the third quarter with three quick buckets by McCarty, who scored four of the points on layups off steals.

The lead grew to 47-16 mostly from long jump shots by McCarty and Heckathorn along with sophomore Kayanee Lange converting a nice pass into a lay-up.

All but one of the buckets scored in the fourth quarter came from New Buffalo.

Senior Sami Smith scored four of the points by sinking a short bank

shot and driving in for a layup after stealing the ball.

The other points for New Buffalo in the final period came from a baseline jumper by senior Jordan Byrk, layup from Notorangelo and free throw by freshman Angelina Byrk.

Notorangelo led the Lady Bison on offense with six points.

McCarty scored 19 points for River Valley while Heckathorn and Lange contributed 16 points and 8 points respectively.

Kelly said his team with a lot of inexperienced players will improve as they learn the game better and improve on fundamentals as the season progresses.

“We’ll take what happened tonight and try to clean things up,” he said.

Enjoying the ‘Sounds of the Season’ at holiday singalong

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Guests to Episcopal Church of the Mediator in Harbert got a musical start to the season during “The Sounds of the Season” Sunday, Dec. 4. Members of the School of American Music (SAM) and a band of many players for the Harbor Country Singers invited audience members to join in the holiday sing-along, which spanned holiday favorites from Hanukkah to Christmas, secular to sacred. The musical lineup included holiday favorites, such as “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “White Christmas.”

In addition to the singing, the Singers were accompanied by multiple instruments, ranging from piano to guitar, dulcimer, trumpet, French horn, trombone and tuba. While the sing-along was free, a donation for Neighbor by Neighbor of canned goods or a food item, such as nutrient-rich peanut butter, was requested.

Tom Parisi plays the guitar during the singalong

The singers were accompanied by a variety of instruments

The Reverand Darlene Kuhn welcomes everyone to the Episcopal Church of the Mediator

Madison Kutch (right) performs a solo while accompanied by Maggie Martin

Donna Mitchell leads everyone in the singalong

The audience sings to the sounds of the season

Students deck the city, township hall trees

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Students from New Buffalo Elementary School trooped over to New Buffalo City and Township halls to deck the trees out in their handcrafted ornaments Friday and Monday, Dec. 2 and 5. As a reward for their generosity, students were given snacks as well as bags of treats. After decorating the trees, students were invited to participate in Christmasthemed crafts at both halls. At New Buffalo Township Hall, students were even greeted by a special guest – the jolly old elf himself – and were invited to take pictures with him.

Jack Rogers (left) assists students with crafts at township hall

Deputy Michael Troupe (right) has some fun with students at city hall

Deputy Michael Troupe poses with Santa at township hall

Students decorate the city hall tree with handcrafted ornaments

Santa hands out treats at township hall

Kylee Bahena shows off her creation at city hall

Students engage in craft-making at township hall

City Clerk Amy Fidler (right) helps students hang ornaments on the city hall tree

Students enjoyed snacks at city hall

Students get ready for an afternoon of crafts at city hall

Students decorate the city hall tree

Students

Students

Students pose with Santa at township hall

hang ornaments on the city hall tree

deck out the township hall tree

Students hang their ornaments on the city hall tree

Students busily deck out the city hall tree

Students do some crafts at township hall

Students hang their handmade ornaments on the city hall tree

Julie Flick (left) and Santa greet students at township hall

Students deck out the tree at township hall

Students deck out the tree at city hall

Santa Claus broke with tradition and rode into Michigan City in the annual Snowflake parade on a sleigh.

There seemed to be no change in the large crowd along the route and beside the community tree basking in the spirit of the season.

“We bared the cold. I’m so glad we did,” said lifelong Michigan City resident Nicole Leary, who came out with her husband, Nick, and their children Emerson, 3, and Aria, 5.

Taylor Purcell of Rolling Prairie said the atmosphere capped off by the tree lighting ceremony was like being in a storybook Hollywood film about the season.

The former Michigan City woman was with her husband, Michael, and their children ages 5, 8 and 13.

Purcell has attended the parade ever since she was a

Santa ditches fire truck for sleigh in parade

BY STAN MADDUX

child.

“I think it’s special, like when you’re watching your Christmas movies. It’s a little bit of happiness,” she said.

There were 29 units, including cartoon characters and horses, in the parade on Franklin Street from 9th Street to 4th Street.

The parade ended in front of the Michigan City Public Library where hundreds of people, if not more, gathered for the tree lighting ceremony.

Pleasure echoing from the crowd was evident when Mayor Duane Parry turned on the lights.

Seemingly forever, Santa Claus has been escorted into the city on top of a fire truck in the parade.

The sleigh came about when Santa expressing a desire for change before Thanksgiving spoke to friend, Amy Frederickson.

Frederickson said she came

up with the idea for the sleigh and found one for sale on Facebook marketplace.

She and her husband, Cory, brought it home after making the over two-hour drive to Woodstock, Illinois

The century old sleigh needed some fixing up but Cory working quickly used his handyman skills to get it to Santa’s liking before the parade.

“We made this all happen in a week,” she said.

Santa on a sleigh seemed to be a hit judging from the reaction

of the crowd.

One man shouted several times in glee “you’re the best Santa.”

Katie Volkman made the trip from Chesterton with her son, Liam, 4, and her daughter, Leah, 12.

The former Chicago resident attended the parade for the first time last year.

Volkman said they came again because of how much all of them enjoyed the festivities.

“The kids got a lot of candy. They liked seeing all the characters. It was just a good time,” she said.

They also went to Washington Park like they did last year after the parade to see the Festival of Lights.

A large section of the lakefront park is heavily decorated annually with lighted figures and twinkling bulbs

strung in the trees.

It was also the second time at the parade for Ryan and Emilia Siffermann and their 5-year-old son, Michael.

They were lifelong residents of southern California until moving to Michigan City early in 2021.

Mrs. Siffermann said the parade, combined with the below 30 degree temperatures, has more of a traditional Christmas feeling to it than anything she experienced before during holidays in a much warmer climate.

“I like the change in seasons,” she said.

The parade was a first for Marissa Snyder and her children, Alex, 5, and Sophia, 3.

Her family moved to Michigan City from Ohio last year.

“Enjoyable. Very enjoyable. The kids are having a good time,” she said.

Liquor approved for Vietnamese restaurant

BY STAN MADDUX

The City of La Porte is helping a new restaurant downtown by allowing it to expand its alcohol beverage offerings.

The La Porte City Council approved a three-way liquor license for Bon Viet by a unanimous vote Monday, Dec. 5.

Bert Cook, executive director of the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership, said the new liquor license allows beer, wine and liquor to be part of the menu.

Only beer and wine were served at the restaurant since it opene d several weeks ago at the former T-Berry’s Diner at 501 Lincolnway.

Under a still relatively new state law, the city has an unlimited number of liquor licenses it can issue in what’s described as a riverfront district or a body of water in close proximity to an area being primed for redevelopment.

Clear Lake is within several hundred yards of the downtown.

“The liquor license will definitely help us,” said Bon Viet Owner Tu Bloom, who’s a professional chef in Chicago.

Bloom said he came to La Porte to shop for antiques when the idea for the restaurant came from discovering the vacant space and “the beautiful small town atmosphere” relatively close to Chica go.

“Your community has been so overwhelmingly supportive,” he said.

He also encouraged people to stop in and check out the menu.

“There are specific things that speak out to people. It’s hard to say which one will be your favorite but I’m sure there will be multiple items,” he said.

Boom is also a florist providing flowers for the annual Grammy awards show.

A Day in the Life

A BACHELOR’S HOLIDAY DINNER SUGGESTIONS

BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER

For some families it’s the “same old, same old” for their holiday dinner. For others, it’s a brand-new scene that’ll be sophisticated, fun to do and a success for all.

For me, there’re no more fabulous feasts than the ones that were back home on the farm. For some, it’s a marvelous meal at a mother’s, aunt’s or sister’s: A grand scene, with 12 to 15 or more and relatives arriving at mostly the same times.

Some of the best food I have ever eaten came off the breakfast bar or the counter in the kitchen; however, when possible, I prefer to have the dining table set. If it’s not big enough to seat all who are dining at it, I would suggest, then, that you use the table as a buffet for your spread. Otherwise, nicely arrange place settings. This calls for candles and a floral arrangement. The silverware arrangement seems to be the biggest challenge. It’s easy to remember if you know that the knife, soup spoon and regular spoon goes on the right of the dinner plate, and the dinner fork first and salad fork on the left. If serving buffet style, I like to roll the utensils in the napkin - so there isn’t any confusion for guests trying to guess which pieces to take for what food (you need large fabric napkins to do this).

If you are serving cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres, do not mix them with your table setting. Your hors d’ oeuvres and wine (if you choose) would be appropriate if you just set out a couple of red and white wines. Choose a red wine and offer only a couple of them. Guests often bring wine, so add those, too. Do the same for white wines but chill them. Always have a handsome pitcher of ice water with lemon wedges, for the non-drinkers if you don’t have other drinks, but a few soft drinks won’t break you. Hors d’ oeuvres may include deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail with dip and mini shish kabobs with cheese and veggies - made the day before, of course.

Candles should be lit before guests arrive to add to the “arrival experience.” Crank up the music, which also lends to that experience.

Have an obvious place for coats to be deposited but try to take coats from guests if you can. I suggest renting a coat rack with hangers if it’s a large crowd. The entrance of your guests is an important first impression and one should always try and greet them personally with kisses and hugs (if you are so inclined).

You’ll want a tossed salad. If you want a soup course, go to the grocery store and, when no one’s looking, grab Campbell’s French soup! Tell no one! Don’t add water but do add the cheese and bread cubes - guests will think you’re a genius!

For the main course get a big ham and order a fresh turkey from Barney’s. You’ll need cloves for the ham spaced in a regimented pattern and do the simple melted brown sugar glaze to pour over the back of the ham. The fresh turkey (not frozen) will be the best from Barney’s and needs only to roast a few hours, according to its weight. The storebought stuffing is fine. Add mushrooms and celery for a little extra zip. Get your favorite vegetable or two, which might include sweet potatoes (that I don’t care for) and another vegetable like broccoli and some old -fashioned, cheap dinner rolls with a mound of butter, and that’s it! Wasn’t that easy? Just do everything the day before and save time for the big day!

Desserts are served after your kids remove the dinner dishes. Don’t go overboard with desserts, they are almost strictly for show. I suggest my favorite, which cracks the guests up: banana splits! Most haven’t had one in decades.

Kids love to participate. Emphasize that they should do so quietly and without fanfare. As “the boss,” make sure these kids know that they should do their work efficiently, quietly and orderly.

It’s challenging, but you will enjoy yourself more and so will your guests if you just follow these suggestions. Start prepping early and have fun with it all! Of course, a sense of humor is always in order.

HOROSCOPE

DECEMBER

8-13, 2022

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

You can expect to feel an acceleration in your energy levels this week.

Put it to good use letting go of things that are not working out or have run their course. Hammer down and leave the mental hang-ups in the dust. This is the time to move out into the social scene and make new connections.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

It’s time to take your commitments to the next level. Whether that means dividing what you have and moving on, or if it means combining resources and moving in together, it’s time to put some serious thought into where you are at emotionally and financially with other people.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

The energy coming your way this week is all about taking responsibility or charge of something and doing your best no matter what. This is not the time to shy away from hard situations. In fact, the energy is such, that if you show up and really put yourself out there, you will succeed.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

The energy coming your way this week is all about taking better care of yourself and addressing health issues. Use the momentum from the stars to start a solid exercise routine or initiate healthy changes in your relationship. It’s time to realize you are strong enough to change.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

Rise like the phoenix, Tiger. Spread those wings and let those old ashes from the past fall away. This is the time to move into relationships with a fresh perspective. Lady Love will be knocking at your door this winter season and you want to be clear headed to handle all the heat.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

Your personal relationships will be a bit challenging this week because they are pushing you to approach problems more seriously. This is not the time to brush things off or use silence to prove a point. Face issues directly and clearly with partners and problems will be solved easily.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22

The style of communication that you have been using with partners may not go over so well now. You may have to take a new approach to get your point across and feel understood. Best to stick to the basics of being a good communicator. Keep it simple, wait for feedback and be kind.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

The universe is shining a spotlight on your wants and desires. Use this vibe to find those holiday keepsakes and to create special moments with loved ones. Take some time to turn that focus on yourself too and take a moment to remember all the joy you create in the world.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

Get ready to feel a push forward from the universe this week. This is the time to let go of the old way of handling your life and its complications, and embrace a more mature way of handling situations. Don’t shy away from disagreements, handle them directly with diplomacy.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

This is the week to get your mind and body on the same page. Take time to get serious about where you are at with your health and wellbeing goals are. Face the facts, you can’t run your body on sugar and caffeine alone. Use the energy this week to make changes and accept the truth.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

Your social life will be undergoing a maturation process this week and the old friend, you thought you would never see again, may just appear. If not that specific person, you can be sure the opportunity to connect and laugh with someone will be available.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

The vibe is ripe with opportunity this week. Take time to get yourself connected to a positive outlook and take a greater part in creating your happiness. Don’t be afraid to let situations that have run their course end. The new beginnings are present, when you let the past situations fade.

2023 Business Recognition Award nominations now open CHAMBER SEEKING PUBLIC NOMINATIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES

The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is looking for outstanding individuals and business who have made an impact in Southwest Michigan over the last year for their 2023 Business Recognition Awards.

Nominations will be accepted through Friday, Dec. 16. Winners will be presented at the 2023 Business Recognition Event in February.

Categories for the 2023 Chamber Awards are:

Business Focused:

·Economic Impact Award: A local enterprise that has made significant contributions to the economic vitality of the region through business growth, job creation, investment in infrastructure, and participation in other endeavors that benefit that community and its residents. The company must also exemplify excellent corporate citizenship by giving back to the

community in which it operates and possess a corporate culture that enhances the lives of its employees.

·Small Business of the Year Award: A local small business that stands out for developing an outstanding, growing business; offering innovative product(s) and/or services, increasing jobs, increasing sales, overcoming adversity, and for making significant community contributions. The applicant for this award should be the highest-ranking person in the company.

·Non-Profit Excellence Award: A 501(c)3 organization that demonstrates excellence in providing a service to our community and/ or in advocating, enabling, and empowering an underserved, underrepresented or disadvantaged population in our area.

·Best New Business: A new stand out business to Southwest Michigan that is between 6 months and 2 years old, has demonstrated levels of excellence in their

product category and in providing service to the community.

Individual Focused: ·Rising Star Award: An award that recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of a highly motivated, emerging leader in the community. Nominee should demonstrate excellence, creativity, and show initiative/leadership in their industry, company, or profession.

·

The Pat Moody Award: An award that recognizes an individual who has made their mark in the community.

Additionally, the chamber will be awarding the Ambassador of the Year Award to one of their ambassadors who has gone above and beyond in 2022 to help the chamber and its members thrive.

Full criteria for each award, and the nomination submission form can be found online at https://smrchamber.com/

business-recognition-awards/

Each award is focused on being meaningful and relevant to the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and our respective community members.

Nominations can be submitted by anyone; however, nominees must be members in good standing with the chamber in order to be eligible for recognition.

Full details regarding the 2023 Business Recognition Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony, including ticket sales will be announced at a later date.

The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is a member-driven organization working to achieve economic prosperity throughout the region, by leveraging every available resource within our network for the advancement of our members and the betterment of all who live and work in our community. —

STAFF REPORTS

Largest Amish Dealer in SW Michigan

OBITUARIES

Sawyer Daniel Moles

2022-2022

Precious angel baby Sawyer Daniel Moles went to be with Jesus on November 27, 2022. He was 10 months old. Sawyer was the son of Kyle and Kelli Moles. He was born January 6, 2022. Sawyer was adored by his four older siblings: Hunter, 8, Madison, 6, Colton, 4, and Greyson, 2.

There are many things we will remember about Sawyer’s short life. He was always so happy - his little dimple and smile brought a returning smile to everyone’s face who saw him. He loved kisses from Dad and snuggles with Mom. Sawyer was Momma’s travel buddy. He visited lots of places with Momma and his entire family including trips to Canada, Italy, Washington D.C., and both of his parents’ alma maters Missouri State University and Harvard Business School. He was able to be a part of one of the family’s favorite traditions of world travel! He had five tiny teeth he was just learning and LOVING to use - most notably his recent obsession with pizza. His giggles and antics prompted hours and hours of laughter with his siblings and parents. He was the joy and light of all their lives.

He is survived by his parents Kyle and Kelli Moles of New Buffalo, MI; maternal grandparents Tom and Linda Wolf of Olathe, KS; aunts and uncles Amy

and Eric Shackelford and their children Ava, Emma and Jack, of Olathe, KS; Tony Lakin of Olathe, KS; Dan and Melissa Moles of Garden City, MO; greatgrandparent Joyce Moles of Harrisonville, MO; and a host of great aunts and uncles, second and third cousins, godparents and dear family friends.

He is preceded in death by grandfather Chris Moles, great-grandparents Larry Moles, Clifford and JoAnn DesMarteau, Irvin and Sylvia Wolf.

A visitation took place Friday, December 2, 6-8 p.m. EST (5-7 p.m. CT) at Sommerfield Chapel, 15 N. Barton St., New Buffalo, Michigan. A memorial service was held Saturday, December 3 at 11 am EST (10 a.m. CT) at Water’s Edge United Methodist Church, 18732 Harbor Country Dr., New Buffalo, Michigan. Reception and luncheon followed at 1 p.m. EST (12 p.m. CT) at 19 North by Froehlich’s, 19 N. Elm St., Three Oaks, Michigan.

His family is finding peace that baby Sawyer is in Heaven, resting in the arms of Jesus. They will always look forward to being with him again one day. The blessing of his perfect life and purest presence will remain with them forever.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Many friends, family members, colleagues and neighbors have asked how to honor Sawyer. Family friends launched a GoFundMe to honor Sawyer’s spirit and legacy of bringing happiness everywhere he went. The family will partner with nonprofits and donate the funds to honor Sawyer’s memory.

CLASSIFIED ADS

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

FOR RENT

NEW BUFFALO RETAIL

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

NEW BUFFALO

Rent Year Round in New Buffalo. 1 or 2 bedroom apartments starting at $800 per month. Quiet living—no pets. For more information call 269-469-1364.

HELP WANTED LOVE WORKING OUTDOORS AND IN THE TREES?

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

FULL TIME COOK POSITION IN LAPORTE

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

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

EXPERIENCE PREFERRED

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

SERVICES

FISH FOR STOCKING

Most Varieties Pond and Lakes. Laggis Fish Farm 269-628-2056 Days 269-624-6215 Evenings.

ELDERLY CARE NEEDED?

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

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

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

THE POKAGON FUND SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR BOARD POSITION;

AREA RESIDENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE

The Pokagon Fund (TPF) is an independent, private foundation whose philanthropic activities aim to improve the quality of life for residents of the Greater New Buffalo Region and in communities surrounding the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians’ trust lands. TPF is seeking applications from those who are interested in serving as a director on its seven-person board. The term is a partial one that will run from the date of appointment through April 2023. The selected individual will be eligible to be re-appointed for a full three-year term when his or her partial term ends.

“The Pokagon Fund is poised to continue its strong, positive impact in the communities it serves,” said the Fund’s executive director Dan Petersen. “The board and the individual directors are critical in setting the vision for the Fund, directing its resources accordingly and ensuring that meaningful progress is achieved. I encourage any Harbor Country resident who is deeply committed to making a positive impact to consider submitting an application.”

Interested individuals can access a candidate profile and download a copy of the application by visiting TPF’s website, www.pokagonfund. org. Completed applications must be returned to TPF’s offices by Jan. 6, 2023. Questions and inquiries about this opportunity can be directed to Petersen at dpetersen@ pokagonfund.org or (269) 4699322. — STAFF REPORTS

MISSION OF THE FUND IS TO ENHANCE ITS SERVICE