December 22, 2022

Three Oaks Village Council approves appointments, 2023 events

BY THERESE DONNELLY

Members of the Three Oaks Village Council had their first regular meeting with newlyelected council members Jason Niemzyk and Lois Jones Wednesday, Dec. 14.

Niemzyk and Jones were both elected to their seats in November and were sworn in after the election was certified.

In addition to welcoming its two new members, the council appointed Jones as council liaison to the Planning Commission, and councilmember Joe Hinman as village president pro-tem.

The council approved a calendar of village events for 2023, including Flag Day, as well as council and board meeting dates, and official holidays for village employees.

Local business owner Suzanna Bierwirth addressed the council about plans for an Oktoberfest to replace Wurstfest. The event is set for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, in downtown Three Oaks. Bierwirth said plans include live music, food, familyfriendly activities and a fenced-off section offering locally-brewed beers.

Oktoberfest will be a fundraiser to benefit River

Valley Mustangs Foundation, and Bierwirth said leftover food will be donated to those in need.

While planning is still in its early stages, Bierwirth said she was asking for the council’s support now so the group has time to secure musicians and other entertainment.

The council approved the plans.

Village manager Dan Faulkner reported to the council efforts to acquire the village’s administrative building from Berrien County are nearly complete. He said the title commitment and property survey are finished and a closing date will be scheduled.

Earlier in the year, Berrien County offered the building to the village for a nominal fee. After researching costs of ownership and maintenance, the council voted to accept the offer.

The short-term rental committee has met but has not yet determined a fee structure. Village president Richard Smith said a survey will be available on the village’s website and official Facebook page to allow residents to share their opinions about the impact of short-term rentals.

The survey is similar to the one used by the Parks and Recreation Board while developing its five-year plan, which was recently completed. The council approved the 2023-2027 plan at its December meeting. Councilmember Tyler Ream, who is the council liaison to the board, explained the plan is required by both the State of Michigan and the Department of Natural Resources and helps the village qualify for certain grants. In the past, the village has paid outside organizations between $10,000 and $15,000 to develop a plan. This year, the board undertook the task themselves and created a joint plan with Three Oaks Township.

The council also approved an amendment to the Parks and Recreation ordinance, setting yearly elections for the board’s chair and secretary and stating the chair shall be a village resident.

During their November meeting, the councilmembers passed a resolution to apply for a Spark Grant. At the December meeting, the council voted to amend

the resolution to include a requested amount.

The Council approved a $1/ hour pay increase for Water and Sewer Department employee Nick Fulbright. Fulbright has completed his probationary period and councilmembers praised his work. Smith said Fulbright is looking to enroll in water management classes in the spring

Additionally, the council approved an employee appreciation bonus for all village employees. Jones said she was glad part-time employees will also receive a “well-deserved” bonus.

Two members of the Planning CommissionDarlene Heemstra and Tom Flint - had terms expire in 2022. While Flint is serving another term, Heemstra decided not to serve again. The council accepted her departure, with several members thanking her for her work. Dyane Thomas Niemzyk was appointed to Heemstra’s vacated seat. In board reports, Hinman reported the Downtown Development Authority selected Cathi Rogers to manage the 2023 farmers market and a contract is being drafted.

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

New Buffalo City Council receives overview of 2022 fiscal year budget

BY THERESE DONNELLY

Finances were a key focus at the New Buffalo City Council’s Dec. 19 meeting.

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

The council received an overview of the 2022 fiscal year budget performed by Gabridge and Company, PLC. Speaking over Zoom, CPA Kevyn Kozumplik told the council the city had received an unmodified opinion, which he said is the highest level of assurance a municipality can receive, with no deficit fund balances or budget deficiencies.

While Kozumplik said the fund balance and general fund had both increased, city treasurer Kate Vyskocil cautioned the council that the increase is in part due to several city projects being delayed due to Covid restrictions. She said much of the fund balance is already earmarked for the projects and the city is seeking grants to complete the funding of some projects.

Mayor John Humphrey said costs for the seawall and marina improvement projects have ballooned.

As part of the effort to fund projects, the council approved submitting an application for a Community Facilities Loan from the US Department of Agriculture. City manager Darwin Watson explained the loan program offers low-interest loans with long payment plans to rural communities for public amenities.

The loan the city is applying for has a 40-year term, though Tony McGhee of Abonmarche Engineering said there is no penalty for early payoffs.

Vyskocil said many grants require the city to pay up front for projects, and then receive reimbursement after the work is done, which requires “juggling” to pay costs. The loan could enable the city to pay those upfront costs.

Speaking on behalf of St. Mary of the Lake Parish regarding the recent water rate increases, Glenn Kaminski asked the

council to consider charging for water usage instead of meter size. He said the parish’s bill had gone from an average of $55 to over $2000 even though the school building is no longer in full use. Kaminski said the building is used for a head-start program and WIC supplemental nutrition program. He added the parish relies on donations to operate the building and cannot pass the costs along to the programs

Humphrey said the ready-to-use fee is determined by water meter size and the city has not updated its rates in several years.

Humphrey said in a separate discussion, Kaminski had pointed out the city has the ability to grant exemptions to religious institutions, but the council will need to discuss how to apply such an exemption. Vyskocil pointed out the city will need to identify how it will make up the deficit owed to the Galien River Sanitary District caused by any exemptions. The council agreed to have a workshop on the issue in January after city staff has time to research possible exemptions. There are five churches in the city limits. After the meeting, Humphrey said the council may have to establish a definition on qualifying institutions.

Due to staffing shortages, many city employees have unused paid leave at the end of the year. The council approved a motion to allow employees to roll over those hours until March 31, 2023.

The council approved the renewal of the agreement between the city and New Buffalo Township to provide fire service. The city does not have enough volunteer firefighters to provide adequate coverage and so pays the township $60,000 to provide as necessary.

Council and board meetings have been set with the approval of the 2023 meeting

calendar.

After a brief discussion the council approved a $16,500 agreement with Pyrotecnico Fireworks to provide the city’s Independence Day fireworks display. The display will be July 3.

The council approved the reappointment of all three members of the Annual Board of Review. Jack Kennedy, Vanessa Thun and Juli Westergren will all serve another term.

As one of the final steps to resolve a property issue, the council approved the dredging of a boat slip at parcel 11-627155-0042-00-3. The city purchased the boat slip from its private owner when it was discovered the Mayhew Street drain was emptying silt into the slip. Now that the drain has been corrected, the city can dredge the slip and its affected neighbor, and sell it.

“This is the end of the road,” Humphrey said.

The council also had the second reading of an amendment to Chapter 18 of the Code of Ordinances, clarifying the process for street or right-of-way vacations and adding the words “as permitted by law.”

Watson reported the Parks and Harbor Commission has made its recommendations for the five-year recreational plan, which is currently available for public review, and the council will review it at their January meeting before it is submitted to the state in February.

The Pokagon Fund Executive Director Dan Petersen told the Council the Fund has a vacancy on its board of directors. Applications can be found at pokagonfund. org. Scholarship applications are also available at the website, and Petersen said many can be used for vocational training or career advancement.

Democracy Requires Transparency

I’m always honest, whether I’m in the limelight or not. — Anne Heche

Walder elected president of Grand Beach Village Council

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Members of the Grand Beach Village Council elected Harry Walder, who was elected to the council last month, as council president at their Wednesday, Dec. 14, meeting.

Walder was elected in a 3-1 vote, with Ed Brandes, Pete Doerr and Walder voting “yes” and Bracewell voting “nay” (councilmember Blake O’Halloran was absent).

In a 3-1 vote (Bracewell voted “nay”), councilmembers elected Blake O’Halloran to serve as president pro tem.

The following officials were also appointed to the following positions: clerk Mary Robertson, treasurer; Walder, building and zoning commissioner; Doerr, parks and beaches commissioner; Bracewell, streets and water commissioner; Brandes, police commissioner and O’Halloran, pro shop and golf commissioner.

Councilmembers heard from a resident who’s looking to purchase a portion of Jensen Court.

According to a letter written by Patricia Carpenter of Carpenter & Capt, Chartered, Bob Vanecko owns property located at 50015 Calla Avenue, which is lots 17, 18 and 19. Vanecko purchased Lot 18, which historically has had use of a circular drive adjacent to it on Calla Avenue. The village owns Jensen Court, which fronts Lake View Avenue, and is where the driveway that’s used by Lot 18 is located.

When he purchased the property, Vanecko said he thought the driveway was part of the property; however, when he closed on it, he discovered

that it wasn’t. Now, he’s interested in purchasing the portion of Jensen Court with the driveway on it.

As stated in the letter, there’s a rectangular portion of the property that residents use to access the beach; however, Vanecko isn’t proposing disturbing that and would just like to purchase the other portion of the property. He said that he’d be willing to pay for an appraiser; however, he was proposing that the village choose the appraiser.

“Rather than me going and trying to say, ‘Okay the property is worth x’ and then coming back to you, it seems like it would make more sense to have you pick any appraiser you want, and we’ll have him go do the appraisal, I’ll pay for it and I’ll buy it at that price,” Vanecko said.

Walder said that the village needs to figure out “what we think the best use of that land is, whether it’s selling it, which it might be, whether it’s leasing it, which we mentioned, or an easement or some other use.”

Adding that an appraiser wasn’t the only “roadblock,” Brandes said that councilmembers don’t yet know where that property, which abuts the lakefront, would fit into a future master plan, which might “take a while.”

“We’re not unreasonable people and we know you need access to your property,” he said.

Doerr agreed to follow up with Vanecko with something “more formal” with regards to the property.

Robb Andrew from Merritt Midwest gave a report on the village’s sanitary survey, which was done by the state through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy

(EGLE).

Several “basic” deficiencies were identified, most of which Andrew said are being worked on by superintendent Bob Dabbs and Merritt, as well as some recommendations.

Among the deficiencies that were identified were that the village’s cross connection program needs to be updated; its reliability study needs to be updated, which Merritt will have for the village to approve so it can be sent to EGLE and its emergency responders plan needs to be updated.

Finished water storage, specifically the vent on top of the water tower, was also identified. Andrew said that the standards that govern construction of that vent and how it operates have been updated and the vent is no longer compliant. Meritt is working with Dabbs on getting plans and specifications to “change that out,” he said.

Councilmembers approved authorized clerk/treasurer Mary Robertson, deputy clerk Kathy Butler, Bracewell, O’Halloran, Walder and Brandes as bank account signers.

Councilmembers adopted a resolution that opts out of PA 152 2011, which requires employees to contribute 20% to their health insurance premiums. Per the resolution, opting out “allows the council to keep control over decisions regarding their employees’ wages and benefits without the state of Michigan making those decisions.”

Councilmembers tabled deciding on two bids that were submitted with regards to replacing the roof for the village hall and maintenance building. Walder said he’ll work with

superintendent Bob Dabbs on creating a spreadsheet “so we can identify what each bidder includes and doesn’t include.”

A bid on tuckpointing the fireplace was also tabled until next month, as Walder will review it with Dabbs.

Councilmembers approved amending a motion to the previous one that was adopted to now read that they approve a BS & A Software purchase for General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Cash Receipting, Utility Billing and Payroll at a cost of $48,948 as presented, with the General Fund paying 50%, the water fund paying 25%, the golf fund 12.5% and the building inspection fund paying 12.5% and to approve a budget amendment in the Building Inspection Fund in the amount of $1,000 for the purchase.

The transfer of $15,000 from the General Fund to the capital projects fund for the 2022-2023 fiscal year for roof repairs and $15,000 for the BS & A Software purchase was approved.

Councilmembers approved the 2023 meeting schedule.

Councilmembers accepted the resignation of Frank Giglio from the Planning Commission and Walder’s resignation from the Planning Commission, Parks and Beaches Committee and Golf committees.

Councilmembers tabled appointing Paul Leonard to the Planning Commission for a partial term ending Aug. 31, 2024, and Liz Grime Vaughan for a partial term ending Aug. 31, 2025, both which were recommended by the planning commission chair Laurie Roch, as Walder said he’d like to sit down with them as well Roche.

NBBA welcomes Smock as newly elected president, looks ahead to 2023

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

As the newly elected president of the New Buffalo Business Association (NBBA) Board of Directors, Benjamin Smock said that drawing people to New Buffalo year-round –not just during the 100 days of summer – is his primary goal.

Smock said he’s on the hunt for “great ideas for how to get people here when it’s not sunny and 75.”

“To try to make the season last as long as we can and to try to engage with visitors yearround is the goal of our general group – and we do that through events and activities,” he said.

Members of the NBBA heard from Smock with regards to the NBBA’s accomplishments from the recent year, as well as what the organization hopes to accomplish in the new year, at their annual meeting at the Marina Grand Resort in New Buffalo Wednesday, Dec. 14.

Members also presented a plaque for “Outstanding Performance in Leadership” to Audrey Tuszynski-Bock, who’s been president of the NBBA since 2020.

NBBA Managing Director Elisha Campbell-Taylor thanked

Tuszynski-Bock for “staying longer on your term to make sure we were all ready and willing and able to put forward everything you have strived for.”

Smock, who owns Hummingbird Lounge in New Buffalo, said he’s had experience doing events while working with Chicago on their destination marketing.

“But I’m excited to bring some of the things that are appropriate to engage visitors here because this is a much different destination than Chicago - even though it’s only an hour away,” he said.

Smock opened Hummingbird Lounge, located on 9 S. Barton Street, in the spring of 2021. A recent renovation to the kitchen allows the restaurant to offer full plates and entrees yearround, which includes a full menu for events.

In terms of finances, Smock said that NBBA membership continues to be the biggest revenue generator, as Smock said that the organization is up about 10% in total revenue and in total members and has 97 members.

Smock said there’s also plans in the works to update and improve the website,

newbuffalo.org, which would involve not only improving the navigation and SEO but also some visuals and adding some calendar functions “that can draw people into things going on a year-round basis.”

Members will be invited to submit information that will allow the NBBA to “populate” the calendar with “anything that would engage potential visitors.”

Smock said that the organization is also looking into doing some purchased ads to target “drive market business,” which involves people who “drive in for a day and do some shopping, grab a meal or drive in for a weekend and do those things and stay in a hotel or visit the casino or any of those types of activities.”

As for the upcoming year’s programming, Smock said that a spring event is currently “in development – there are more details to come.”

Summer will see a return of the farmers’ market; however, Smock said that the NBBA is currently working with the city to scout out potential new locations for it. This past summer’s location on the lot at the corner of Buffalo and North

Whittaker streets, which Smock said involved working with the city “to be able to negotiate to get what we thought was going to be an ideal location,” turned out to be a less-than-desirable location based on the feedback from others.

“We solved the problem - we didn’t negatively affect the businesses on Whittaker Street, but we didn’t solve the problem of creating a destination for visitors and community members alike to get together to buy goods and see some other local artisan and craft vendors in the city,” he said, adding that he believes that participation could’ve been increased based on the general feedback.

The NBBA is also looking for a farmers market coordinator, which would run from February through September.

Mondays at the Marina, which was a free open aired concert at the transient marina, proved to be popular and will return next summer.

The Harvest and Wine Fest, which is held on North Whittaker Street the Saturday during Columbus Day weekend,

raised a little over $16,000 this year. Smock said a big part of that amount that was raised was sponsorships, with the rest coming from “buying local products and selling tastes with that.”

Smock attributed this year’s success to adding fencing around the perimeter, which involved licensing that space in accordance with the law, so that visitors could wander around the entire perimeter of the festival with their wine and beer.

A new business model was also established, which involved an NBBA Bar. Smock said Hickory Creek Winery paid a sponsorship fee to be the wine sponsor, Journeyman sponsored the spirits and Haymarket Brewery sponsored the beer. As a result of paying a sponsorship fee, each establishment had a select group of its products available in the middle of the event right in front of the stage.

Members of the NBBA Board of Directors are Smock, Traci Lauricella, Lisa Werner, Leslie Danesi, Gary Wood and Wesley Moguel.

NBBA members listen to the presentation

Traci Lauricella, Audey Tuszynski-Bock, Elisha Taylor and Wesley Moguel

NBBA Director Elisah Taylor introduces herself while NBBA President Ben Smock looks on

Ben Smock, Elisha Taylor, Traci Lauricella and Wesley Moguel recognize outgoing president Audrey Tuszynski-Bock (center)

ALLEGED BANK ROBBER TREATS HIMSELF TO PIZZA BEFORE GRABBED

ANew Buffalo man suspected in a recent bank robbery ordered a pizza while in hiding and paid for the tab with money from the heist.

Those are among the details alleged in the case against Ryan James.

James, 43, is charged in LaPorte Superior Court 1 with the Dec. 15 robbery of First Source Bank in the 3900 block of Franklin Street in Michigan City. According to court documents, James on a note slipped to a teller demanded money and indicated he had a gun.

James, who was wearing a mask, fled with about $4,000 in a dark colored sport utility vehicle with a Chicago White Sox sticker in the back window, police said.

A Pokagon Tribal Police officer soon located the suspected getaway vehicle outside Judy’s Motel on U.S. 12 just west of the New Buffalo city limits.

The motel was placed under surveillance while police and prosecutors gathered evidence to present to a judge for an arrest warrant.

James then had a pizza delivered to his motel room and paid the tab with the stolen money judging by the serial numbers on the bills matching the currency taken from the bank, according to court documents.

About three hours later, an arrest warrant was obtained and James obeyed commands from officers to step out of the room.

James confessed to the robbery and also stated he did not have a gun during the hold-up, court documents revealed.

He was booked into the Berrien County Jail and held until he could be transported across state lines to the LaPorte County Jail to face the allegations.

Berrien County Police Undersheriff Chuck Heit said there’s a process that must be followed before offenders can to be taken to face charges in other jurisdictions.

He anticipated James will be given to authorities in LaPorte County sometime in the next 30 days.

He would not be more specific on exactly when that will occur.

“From a safety and security standpoint in moving offenders, we don’t let anybody know when that is going to happen,” he said. — STAN

Friends of Berrien County Trails celebrates adoption of master plan, carries momentum into next phase of 10-year trail network project

Fresh off the milestone achievement of their Trails Master Plan being adopted by the Berrien County Board of Commissioners, the citizenbased nonprofit Friends of Berrien County Trails (FBCT) is carrying that momentum into the next phase of creating an interconnected trail network in the county.

The first of its kind, the Trails Master Plan serves as a detailed roadmap to guide short- and long-term priorities for the trails network in Berrien County over the next 10-plus years. The eventual goal is an interconnected network of trails that will enhance the county’s overall economy, health and quality of life.

FBCT’s plan was completed in November, and the Berrien County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution of support on Dec. 1. The proposed routes in their plan will connect significantly more residents and destinations by increasing the mileage of infrastructure by 372 miles, connecting communities to key destinations such as schools, parks, beaches, shopping areas, medical facilities and major employment centers.

FBCT has worked tirelessly on developing the master plan since 2019. In the last year, the leadership team, steering committee and community partners joined in. The plan reflects community input from the last year thanks to a series of public workshops, online surveys,

expert focus groups and municipal assessments.

“By no means have we made it this far alone,” Dawn Marie Smith said. “Everyone’s involvement greatly helped us develop a proposed trail system that best addresses our communities’ needs and desires.”

Marcy Hamilton, senior planner and deputy executive director of the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, and Smith of Be Healthy Berrien joined forces with FBCT President Gary Wood and Abonmarche Consultants to lead plan development.

destinations for visitors and aid in the physical and mental health of residents.

“This is the first time we looked at all the trails throughout Berrien County and saw that there is a real opportunity to fill in the gaps and create a connected regional network,” Hamilton said. “It’s exciting. Imagine one day being able to get on your bike in Niles and pedal all the way to Jean Klock Park in Benton Harbor.”

• Marquette Greenway/Red Arrow Linear Park/Lakeview Trail

• Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail

• Old Sauk Trail

• McCoy’s Creek Trail

The plan provides guidance for the location and facility design for bicycle, pedestrian, water and equestrian facilities. Developing a safe and accessible nonmotorized transportation and recreation network is an important part of keeping Berrien County an attractive, desirable, and healthy place, Smith said. These trail facilities have a broader impact than simply improving the safety of people who walk, bike and drive; they are economic development tools that attract new business and residents, provide tourism

Next, FBCT hopes to receive resolutions of support from Berrien County municipalities as the plan has been introduced to all 39 of them in this process. So far, they’ve received funding from 22 of those. Additional funding came from foundations and private entities.

“There are 71,235 county residents living within a fiveminute walk to an existing nonmotorized pathway,” Hamilton said. “Full implementation of the master plan would increase that number to 104,241.”

“It is the final plan, but it can always change as new information is discovered,” Wood said. For detailed information on the master plan and the Friends of Berrien County Trails, visit www. berrientrails.org.

FOUR REGIONALLY SIGNIFICANT ROUTES ARE THE BACKBONE OF THE PROPOSED TRAIL NETWORK:

SPORTS

From the Bleachers

COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

What a difference a week makes. Last week, it seemed as if the prospects for both Chicago baseball teams were dismal. While the successful teams like the Phillies, Mets, Yankees, Astros, etc. we’re spending unprecedented amounts of money on free agents, both Chicago teams seemed to be sitting on their hands.

Let’s begin with the White Sox. Last season, the Sox were predicted to be one of the best teams in baseball and compete for a championship. Unfortunately, they stumbled out of the gate and never came close to reaching their potential, ending the season with 81 wins and 81 losses. The season was a total disappointment for the team and their fans.

Clearly, something had to be done to change the chemistry, or lack of it. Before this week, all the Sox had done was change managers and let Jose Abreu go to the Astros as a free agent. Changing managers was a positive step, but letting Abreu leave was a big negative.

Something had to be done and finally, last week, the Sox made a move. Andrew Benintendi, who last played for the Yankees, signed a 5 year 75 million dollar contract, and he seems to be the type of player the team really needs. I’m sure more moves will be made, but at least the Sox are trying to improve.

On the north side, the Cubs had promised to spend some money and add free agents to their team to try to be competitive again, but until last week they had been disturbingly

silent. Finally, the Cubs spent what the market demanded and signed Dansby Swanson to a 7 year 177 million dollar contract. After spending a similar amount of money on Jason Heyward 8 years ago, the Cubs were a little skittish about signing a player for that long a period of time.

But the other top shortstops signed 11, 11, and 13 year contracts so the Cubs did well to limit Swansons contract to seven years. The Cubs needed to step up after spending the last couple of years in the cellar. The signings by both teams in Chicago renewed hope for a strong summer of competitive baseball, and I look forward to seeing how it plays out.

The Bears played the Philadelphia Eagles almost to a standstill on Sunday. While clearly having inferior talent at many positions, the Bears made a game out of it. While I’m afraid to curse them, I can hardly wait for next year. It took me a while, but I’m a full blown believer in Justin Fields. If he stays healthy, there’s no doubt in my mind that he will end up being the best quarterback ever to play for the Bears.

Not enough can be said about the coaching staff either. They have the team playing with great enthusiasm and are most often put in a position to succeed. So baseball and football are looking good in Chicago, can basketball and hockey be far behind?

Michael Altshuler said, “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.”

Happy holidays. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

Bison get an ‘A’ for effort in loss

BY STAN MADDUX

The New Buffalo High School boys’ basketball team would have recorded its first win of the season had their latest game been decided strictly on grit and determination.

The score also could have been different had the Bison not been without one of their best players, freshman James Shaw, who was out from sickness.

Head Coach Nate Tripp raved about the effort of his young and inexperienced players after their 47-35 loss to a much larger and experienced Michigan Lutheran squad at home Friday, Dec. 16.

“I could not be happier and more proud of them,” he said.

Without the speed and dribbling ability of Shaw, the Bison (0-4) committed a lot of mental mistakes and turnovers from trouble handling the full court press

the Titans put on throughout the game.

New Buffalo trailed by just one point after the first quarter, though, and while behind nine points in the second quarter cut to lead to five points on a lay-up by freshman Lucas Forker just before halftime.

The Bison stayed within striking distance until late in the third quarter when the lead grew to 15 points.

Hard working freshman guard Nick Haskins quickly helped cut the lead to 11 points by nailing a jump shot while driving toward the rim and catching a pass to sink a lay-up.

The 5’5” Haskins later used a pump fake to get the ball up and into the rim over his much taller opponents, but the Bison were not able to narrow the lead below 10 points the rest of the way.

Haskins, who often hit the floor from diving after

loose balls and dribbling his way into tight defenses, led all Bison scorers with eight points.

Tripp said all of his players, including junior Elliot Bourne and senior Landon Haskins, who also were under the weather, put forth a tremendous effort.

He also praised Cameron Forker, a stocky 6’2” junior, for preventing Michigan Lutheran from driving the lane to score easy buckets.

“They’re not going to quit. This team is not going to quit,” he said.

Tripp said he left the game more encouraged the team is determined to improve enough as their bodies grow to better compete in the post season.

“We’re building toward the end of the season,” he said.

I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people. — Vincent Van Gogh

Contestants for Miss/Mr., Miss Junior Teen and Little Miss/Mr. New Buffalo to grace the stage next month

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

After a twoyear hiatus, the Miss New Buffalo Scholarship Pageant is back.

The pageant, which this year has a “Lights, Camera, Crowns” theme, will be making its return at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, in the New Buffalo Performing Arts Center, at 1112 E. Clay Street in New Buffalo.

Contestants will be competing in categories for Miss and Mr. New Buffalo, Miss Junior Teen New Buffalo and Little Miss and Little Mr. New Buffalo.

Contestants for Miss New Buffalo are Amelia Selir, Sam Smith, Kaitlyn Rainwater, Ellen Ripley, Angelina Bryck, Madison Grzywacz, Sierra Sheeler and Ava Jackson. Angelo Cicarelli will be competing for Mr. New Buffalo.

Miss Junior Teen contestants are Bailey Cherrett, Lily Worley and Carlee Tanksley. Little Miss contestants are Kaylee Bahena, Kylee Bahena, Eva Grzywacz, Allie Bowen, Zoey O’Connell and Norah Beck. Little Mr. contestants are Trace Troxell, Beckett Frum and Keller Kares.

Angela Dupre and Tracy Tanksley, who served as pageant coordinators in 2019, said that they’re “very excited” to be stepping up to the plate once again.

“It’s something we both enjoy,” Dupre said. Tanskley, who said that they “had fun with it” the last time, said that reviving the pageant was at the core of their decision to coordinate it again.

She recalls picking up the float, which needed to be moved due to the building it was being stored in at Grand Beach being sold, from the previous pageant for the Miss Blossomtime parade and seeing the “petal paper going everywhere” as she drove behind her husband and realizing she didn’t want the program to go away.

“It’s a lot work but it’s fun too, I enjoy it and it’s going to be what we make it and we’re going to make it a good experience for ourselves and for the kids,” Tanksley said.

Considering they started planning for the pageant since mid-November, both Tanksley and Dupre are

WATERFRONT TYPE DINING PLANNED IN LAPORTE

pleased with the turnout of contestants.

“It was a really fast thing - Blossomtime had to get approval for us to do it, so were excited that they approved us and here we are,” Dupre said.

Dupre and Tanksley are also excited to have recruited Chelsey Autumn Schmidt, founder, director and CEO of Diamond Dance Academy in Cassopolis, Michigan, to choreograph the dances.

Also assisting with the pageant is Morgan Motycka, who was first runner-up to Miss New Buffalo in 2019.

“The pageant gave so much to me, so I wanted to give back to the pageant,” she said of her decision to jump onboard.

Presale pageant tickets and tickets at the door are $25. There will also be $10 tickets for students at New Buffalo Area Schools the day of the pageant. Students will need to show some identification at the door to get their hand stamped (no paper tickets will be issued).

Tanskley said that she hopes the student discount will encourage more younger people to attend the pageant – which, in turn, will give it more exposure. In addition to giving students the opportunity to support their friends the day of the pageant, students may also be encouraged to want to go out for a title themselves.

It wasn’t until she became the co-coordinator of the pageant herself when she understood how many valuable lessons being a part of it could instill in young adults.

“Without boasting about yourself, you are there trying to say, ‘Choose me, I feel I’m the person for the job for this reason – ‘and it’s okay to feel you’re the person for the job…Either way, you’re going to learn something from this and make friends and to have fun with it,” Tanskley said.

Inquiries for the pageant can be sent to missnewbuffalo@gmail.com. More information can also be found on the Facebook page, Miss New Buffalo Scholarship Pageant.

The door has opened for providing waterfront type dining in LaPorte. Plans for a 7,100 square foot independently owned restaurant across from Pine Lake were given final approval Monday, Dec. 19, by the LaPorte City Council.

The multi-level restaurant with outdoor dining will go up on the former Thunderbird Lanes site at 1251 Pine Lake Ave.

Bert Cook, executive director of the LaPorte Economic Advancement Partnership, said the city and owner have worked together for the past six years on developing the parcel into something good for both sides.

Cook said a high percentage of local residents want more dining options in the city.

He also said a restaurant aimed at bringing visitors from across the region to enjoy a meal close to the lake reflects ongoing efforts to capitalize on the natural resources locally to draw more people here.

“This is without a doubt a destination location,” he said.

LaPorte native Brandon Jones of Pine Lake Development, LLC is behind the restaurant planning to offer traditional American cuisine once construction is completed sometime in 2023.

Jones is involved with other food related operations such as Buffalo Wild Wings at the Pine Lake Shopping Center in LaPorte.

Cook said the name of the restaurant has not been decided.

The site is not on the shoreline.

However, it’s close enough that a waterfront atmosphere was drawn into the design of the structure.

“There will be unique aspects to the dining experience,” said Tony Oss, the project manager from Larson-Danielson Construction.

The council voted in favor of placing the site in an economic development zone for the project to be eligible for tax abatement.

A 10-year tax abatement was approved a short time later for the estimated $4 million investment that could employ up to 65 people at some point in the coming years.

“The multi-level experience will have beautiful views of Pine Lake and the restaurant will be family friendly,” Cook said. — STAN MADDUX

Blumenfeld

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Students take the stage for ‘The Magic Christmas Tree’

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

The local airwaves will be filled with old-fashioned holiday cheer this month after the New Buffalo Performing Arts Department presented the radio play, “The Magic Christmas Tree” Saturday, Dec. 17, at the New Buffalo Performing Arts Center.

“The Magic Christmas Tree,” which debuted on Christmas Eve 1950, features “Our Miss Brooks” discovering the magic of Christmas while offering a bit of humor.

Three students from New Buffalo Area Schools — Lynn Jones, Brysun Perry, and Henry Gadiel - did a live read in the afternoon, followed by a live broadcast in the evening. Their performance will fill the airwaves of Bison Radio - 107.9 FM WNBI, and 94.9 WSJM later this month.

Before the play, children were invited in the cafeteria to make Christmas-themed crafts and to decorate cookies. Later, the Jolly Old Elf himself made an appearance and lent his ears to children as they divulged their Christmas wishes to him.

Jaxon Simpson visits with Santa

Ariana Cook pays a visit to Santa

Mateo and Emma Behzadi work on a craft

Santa hands out treats

Ariana Cook works on a craft

Lynn Jones, Brysun Perry, and Henry Gadiel do a reading of “The Magic Christmas Tree”

Madeline Selby helps Owen Selby with a craft

The First Responders Children’s Foundation ‘Toy Express,’ Berrien County Sheriff’s Office deliver free toys to children involved with Boys & Girls Club of Greater Southwest Michigan

First Responders Children’s Foundation, in partnership with the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Southwest Michigan, hosted a “Christmas Celebration” Tuesday, Dec. 13, at the Fettig Youth Campus of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Southwest Michigan.

During this Christmas Celebration, members of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office were able to provide over 200 children with a gift provided by the First Responders Children’s Foundation.

“It is my honor and pleasure to partner with the First Responders Children’s Foundation to ensure that children in the Benton Harbor Michigan area receive a special gift this Christmas season,” Berrien County Sheriff L. Paul Bailey said.

First Responders Children’s Foundation established “Toy Express” with generous donations of toys from Mattel, Spin Master, Servpro, CSX, Spin Master, Jazwares, Freedom, Good 360, Toys for Tots and other businesses. In addition, generous individuals across the nation are helping bring holiday cheer to families by making donations of toys or money.

The First Responders Children’s

Foundation’s Toy Express delivers more than 250,000 free holiday toys to first responder agencies and hospitals, which then distribute the holiday cheer to children of first responders and to children in first responder communities. This is the First Responders Children’s Foundation’s way of saying “happy holidays” and “thank you” to the heroic first responders who show up when we dial 9-1-1.

For 21 years, First Responders Children’s Foundation has been providing college scholarships to the children of first responder parents, who have been injured or lost in the line of duty. The Foundation also awards grants to families enduring significant financial hardship and supports educational activities and programs created by first responder organizations to benefit children of the communities in which they live.

The First Responders Children’s Foundation also pays for funerals of first responders, who have made the ultimate sacrifice. More information about First Responders Children’s Foundation is available at www.1strcf.org. — STAFF

Hogs perish in barn fire

BY STAN MADDUX

About a dozen hogs died in a fully engulfed barn fire Tuesday night in LaPorte County.

Firefighters after 11 p.m. responded to a small farm belonging to Kenneth Hunt in the 6800 block of E. 300 North.

“It was a total loss,” said Kankakee Township Fire Chief Chip Winters.

Winters said the barn roughly 60 feet long and 30 feet wide was serviced by electricity running from the house.

He said some type of electrical issue could have started the fire but the cause will be left up to Hunt’s insurance company to try and determine.

Hunt told investigators he plugged in a submersible heater that night to keep water in a trough the hogs inside the barn drank out of from freezing.

“It could have been that or something else. We don’t know,” Winters said.

At some point, Winters said a breaker switch in the house attached to the electrical wiring leading to the barn was tripped.

Firefighters from Lincoln, Pleasant and Springfield townships helped put out the blaze.

Winters said the barn was small but outside assistance was needed to provide enough tanker trucks with water to put out flames embedded in the hay and wood stored inside the structure.

The barn also contained a saw mill Hunt used to cut logs into lumber.

“He cut his own wood for building,” he said. Winters said he was not aware of any hogs that survived the fire, which took about three hours to completely extinguish.

A Day in the Life

THE FIRST ALERT BUTTON

BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER

It’s an embarrassment, it’s unwanted, it’s a clear message that you are old geezer and in less than perfect health. It’s the First Alert button that you wear around your neck and on a black cord and a dingle dangle button that those of a lesser stamina may use if they need any kind of attention.

I think they are ridiculous, and I have refused the offers for me to join that club –until of late, when I signed up with them in a moment of weakness.

It’s not easy making these decisions.

I am also being called upon to fill out and sign a document to assign three lucky devils to testify for my not being resuscitated in the event I should go into my death throes and a coma sets in. It’s a cheery reminder that I may be checking out any day now.

Of course, I’ll do those forms too, with trepidation. I don’t like the finality of it all. One should be able to fantasize that you are going to live to 115, shouldn’t one?

Then there is the matter of a legal will for all your possessions. I will have to give the Rolls to my brother. The jewelry will also go to my brother, as well as the antique collections. He will, in turn, sell it all off immediately. I don’t have anywhere near the same taste as him (no one does).

My nieces actually do have similar tastes, but one said recently she wants nothing. Obviously, she’s in denial that I’m going to croak someday (or not).

The thing is, no one wants to face the reality that we are not going to live forever –or, at least, I don’t. It’s a strange issue where I’m concerned. When I’m left undisturbed from thinking about these unpleasant demands for my time and attention, I don’t think of it; I resent it. Some would say I am in denial. Is it denial when you love your life and don’t want to think of the worst case scenario? Isn’t it good that I’m in such a positive state of mind? I have friends that are equal in age and are booking world cruises and getting face lifts, and all kinds of projects

that one would think a much younger person would be planning.

My one friend who’s my age is planned to go to India over land and sea to visit an old client that she felt had fallen in love with her. But then he sent a letter to her that was meant for another person and she realized that he must have been dealing with two 80plus year old sirens. This same friend sailed around the Cape on a cruise last year, which turned out to be not so great when she had her phone and computer stolen in the airport on the way home. Not to mention her fellow traveler was a pain in the neck who never stopped talking, proving once again that it’s one thing to be friendly at home and another to live in a small suite on a so-called luxury liner.

Along the same lines, I just heard a horrible story about a woman who was scuba diving off their luxury fishing boat and her husband witnessed her being attacked by a shark. Divers trying to save her only found her diving equipment, with no trace of her otherwise. All of this was reported as a news filler, with no verbal regard for her whatsoever. It was a busy news day and no time for anything but the bullet points. I have no chance of that happening, since I don’t dive. Besides, my body is being donated to the University of Michigan: My one accomplishment for my remains in the event of my untimely passing. It turned out I was glad I signed up for First Alert. I was out of bed early and had started to fix my coffee when – I fell. Try as I may, I could not get back up on my own. Swallowing my pride, I hit the button on my neck. Lo and behold, the nicest man showed up in minutes and had to crawl through the window (the door was locked). I was impressed that he broke nothing and saved me.

One can never be sure of these fly-by-thenight services for old people.

HOROSCOPE

DECEMBER 22-28, 2022

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

The energy coming your way this holiday season is a bit more serious. It’s important that you utilize this energy to its fullest by sticking around and doing the right thing at the Holiday gatherings this year. Put in the extra effort to help out with the dishes or organize the festivities.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Hold fast to your vision of a beautiful and peaceful holiday season, no matter what happens. This is the time to let traditions that have stood the test of time to shine through. Gather with those that are a constant and let others come and go. Hold on to the things that prove constant, let the rest go.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

This holiday week could be a bit tense but it is showing you who and what can stand the test of time and the things that are worth getting committed to. It’s time to cut the things that need let go of and fully commit to those people and traditions that have continually stood by your side.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

Break out those old holiday cookie recipes and bake up some goodies this solstice season. Baking and sharing those warm treats with a loved ones are worth a lot more than anything you could buy in the store. Load up the sleigh with cookies and deliver them with laughter.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

This Holiday season take charge of the festivities by organizing and taking part in the cleanup. If things start to feel hectic, break things down and compartmentalize the situations. Most importantly, work as a team. Streamline gifts by giving the same wonderful homemade items to all.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

You know what makes you happy and you know how to make your holiday really shine but if you don’t share that information with loved ones, you may end up disappointed this season. Take the initiative to tell others what you really want. Communicate your desires and they will be fulfilled.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22

Get more involved in creating peace and bringing people together this holiday season. Take the opportunity to open conversations up with estranged family members when you are in a group setting, rather than singling out individuals. Take heed in the wisdom of the more the merrier.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

There is a bit of the unexpected in store for the scorpion this winter. So, if that weird and unusual gift breaks the ice, use it to your advantage by reconnecting and burying the hatchet. This season the most important thing is talking and connecting with others, no matter how cliché.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

The vibe coming towards you this week is focused in the gift giving department. That doesn’t mean you have to spend money, or even buy presents. It’s about sharing your wisdom and expressing your ideas in a helpful and productive way. Let your gift be that of constructive criticism.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

Your ability to speak the truth and set situations on a better path by doing the right thing will prove to be the best gift you could give this holiday season. Even in laying down the truth, you have a softness that makes others know you care. Keep both barrels loaded and the tissues handy.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

There is nothing wrong with taking some alone time to honor those people and situations that are no longer available this holiday season. If you start to feel overwhelmed, pull back a little and spend some time alone. Once you regroup, you’ll be the life of party, per your usual.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

Don’t go it alone, this is the time to reach out to friends and open up all lines of communications. Get out and socialize. Whatever your plans are, be sure to include one or two more. When you set the table, be sure to leave a space for the unexpected guest. Make room in your heart and it will be filled.

Edgar Wilbury Experience, opener Skirt to present New Year’s Eve show

Those who are looking for something to do close to home on New Year’s Eve can see two rock and roll bands performing at The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Three Oaks Saturday, Dec. 31.

At 9 p.m., Skirt will get the celebration underway with original music and some covers. Lead vocalist, Kyra Webb has great vocals and a strong presence on stage. This is a fun and exciting band that audience members will be seeing much more of in the days to come.

At 10:15 p.m., the Edgar Willbury Experience will perform a great collection of classic rock covers, including songs by Tom Petty, The Cars, Cream, ZZ Top, Rolling Stones and The Beatles (just to name a few).

The Edgar Willbury Experience is made up of four members from the area. Bassist Frank Rotondo has been playing bass for over 40 years and is

an incredible musician. He was a member of a heavy rock band called Paradox in Chicago back in the ’80s. Kirk Boyd, who’s from the New Troy area, has been in several local bands over the last 40 years and has

mastered the craft of guitar over the years. Drummer Tony Borden is out of Berrien Springs and brings great energy and a steady beat that sets the tempo for the band.

Fred Lange (aka Edgar Willbury), the front man on vocals and harmonica, has been around music his entire life and is a great fit for the band. He and his son, Dylan, have a show on the local radio station, WRHC, called “All Over the Planet,” which airs on Friday nights at 6:30 p.m. They have been doing the radio show for nine years and will be coming up on their 500th show in the months ahead. Plenty of seating and dancing is available at the Acorn Theater. Doors for the show will open at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at the Acorn box office. For more information, visit www.acornlive. org. The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts is located at 107 Generaton Drive in Three Oaks. —

STAFF REPORTS

Largest Amish Dealer in SW Michigan

LaPorte deemed bicycle friendly

BY STAN MADDUX

The City of LaPorte is being recognized nationwide for making bicycling throughout the community safer and easier.

The League of American Bicyclists designated LaPorte as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community.

City Planner David Heinold said the declaration is a testament to the city’s commitment to offer resources that benefit residents of all ages and abilities while encouraging healthier and more sustainable transportation choices.

“The City of LaPorte strives to create a welcoming environment for all people where bicycling is a major part of living an active and healthy lifestyle. We are committed to providing quality opportunities for residents and visitors to see our beautiful city by bicycle,” he said.

LaPorte Mayor Tom Dermody said the designation should provide an edge in attracting new businesses and residents to the community because of how much quality of life is considered by employers and individuals in deciding where to locate.

He said it’s also a selling point to

help keep current students living here as adults and attract former graduates back to the community.

“It just shows there’s something for everybody in LaPorte,” he said.

The city has invested considerable time in recent years developing walking and bicycling trails with more planned in the future.

LaPorte joins 500 other communities throughout the country in attaining one of five bicycle friendly levels of designation by the League of American Bicyclists.

Criteria for consideration includes bicycle related infrastructure, education and events.

For more information, visit bikeleague.org/community.

The focus of the group is on safer roads for bicyclists, promoting how bicyclists make for stronger communities and furthering the push toward a “Bicycle Friendly America.”

The group founded in 1880 at Newport, Rhode Island is now based in Washington D.C.

OBITUARIES

Norbert Harold Topolski 1936-2022

Norbert Harold Topolski, 86, of Lakeside, died peacefully at home, Sunday, December 18, 2022, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

His life began February 22, 1936 in Blue Island, Illinois, the middle of three children born to Alexander and Ruth Topolski. He married Joyce Ann Sirotek August 27, 1960 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Norbert served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961. While in the army, his best friend set him up on a blind date with Joyce. They were married three months later and moved to Blue Island, Illinois. Norb then began his truck driving career where he was fondly known as “Grumpy”, driving for close to forty years. Norb, Joyce and the family enjoyed camping, fishing and spending time in Canada at his parents’ cottage. He also enjoyed woodworking and taking care of his beloved property of almost fifty years. Special shout out to his Lakeside neighbors who assisted him and his tractor out of the ditch many times.

Topolski of Three Oaks, Michigan; twelve grandchildren, Melanie (Steve) Groenendal, Matthew Holub, Melissa Snyder, Andrew (Christena) Holub, Corey (Jordan) Topolski, Lyndsey Topolski, Sarah (Chris) Sujka, Alicia Holub, Chloe Topolski, Jenna Topolski, Kendall Pankopf, MacKenzie Pankopf; six great grandchildren, twins Zoey Groenendal and Lily Groenendal, Drew Holub, Ava Holub, Aubrie Snyder, Myla Snyder; one brother, Kenneth Topolski of Alsip, Illinois; a host of nieces, nephews; and his rescue dog, Flower.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one granddaughter, April Molinari; and one brother, Robert Topolski.

Family and friends will gather Wednesday, December 21, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time) in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street

East, Three Oaks. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 22, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in Trinity Lutheran Church, 5791 Sawyer Road, Sawyer with visitation at the church beginning one hour earlier at 10:00 a.m. Norb will be laid to rest in Lakeside Cemetery in Chikaming Township at a later date.

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.

Norbert will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Joyce Topolski of Lakeside; three daughters, Kathy (Lee) Ullmann of Mokena, Illinois, Laurie Topolski of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Krista (Duncan) Pankopf of Huntington Woods, Michigan; two sons, Norbert (Jacqueline) Topolski of Stafford, Virginia, Joseph (Colleen)

The family prefers contributions in memory of Norbert be made to Michigan Parkinson Foundation, 30400 Telegraph Road, Suite 150, Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025; or Trinity Lutheran Church, 5791 Sawyer Road, Sawyer, Michigan 49125; or Berrien County Animal Control, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022.

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

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January 18, 2023

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June 21, 2023 July 19, 2023 August 16, 2023 September 20, 2023 October 18, 2023 November 15, 2023 *December 13, 2023

LAPORTE BELL RINGERS DEFEAT MICHIGAN CITY

LaPorte Mayor Tom Dermody has scored his third straight victory in raising funds for the Salvation Army.

The win came in the bell ringing contest Tuesday against Michigan City Mayor Duane Parry.

Just over $2,700 was dropped into kettles manned by Dermody and his team outside Kroger in LaPorte.

Slightly more than $600 came out of the kettles Parry and his teammates were assigned to at Al’s Supermarket on Franklin St.

Last year, Dermody raised just over $6,000 in the kettles outside Kroger while Parry had more than $3,100 dropped into his kettles at the same Al’s Supermarket location.

LaPorte Salvation Army Capt. Charles Pinkston said he’s not surprised because fund raising in the kettles this season is noticeably lower here and elsewhere.

He believes inflation has taken a bite out of what people are able to give this year.

“Everything right now is down. It’s not unexpected,” he said.

Dermody also had an anonymous donor who matched every dollar dropped into his kettles to raise his grand total to more than $5,400.

“We’re excited about that. All of these funds go to helping those in need,” he said.

As of December 21, about $45,000 had come out of the kettles at all locations in LaPorte since the kettle drive began prior to Thanksgiving.

The goal was $85,000.

Pinkston said assistance with things like food and utility bills could go to fewer people next year to make up for any fund raising shortage. —

STAN MADDUX