August 20, 2026 by New Buffalo Times

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LIFE IN NATURE ON LAKE MICHIGAN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

New Buffalo Times

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TH EI C OIFAFLI CNI E AW L S NPA EW PF E RN O F NBEUW BU FAMLIO • ISGA INC 4 4C E 1 9 4 2 THE O FF PS EPA R O EW F FA LF O, CH NE• 1S9I N

CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 33, volume 85

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Thursday, August 20, 2026

Chikaming Township approves SRO contract PAGE 3

City council approves equipment purchases PAGE 4

Village council updated on GLO program PAGE 5

Totzke, Martindale youth fair queen and king PAGE 18

DATA LOSS...

TOWNSHIP BOARD DENIES SLU REQUEST FROM PHOENIX LOGISTICS — PAGE 10 —

2 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 2

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2026 Berrien County Youth Fair August 17-22 Grandstand Entertainment Monday, August 17th

Tuesday, August 18th

Sponsored by:

NTPA Regional Truck & Tractor Pull featuring 4WD Trucks, Super Farm, Hot Farm & Limited Superstock Tractors Show Time: 7 p.m. Ticket Price: $17, $15, $10

Wednesday, August 19th Sponsored by:

August 16th Street Legal Pickup Truck and Tractor Pull 5 p.m. Grandstand Tickets: $15 Presented by Dale Seyfred Pioneer Seed & Twin Maple Orchard Galien

Thursday, August 20th Sponsored by:

Friday, August 21st Sponsored by:

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All children through high school get in the gates FREE!

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Show Time: 7 p.m. Ticket Prices: $45, $35, $25 Reserved Seating

Show Times: 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m.

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Rides Area:

RIDE WRISTBAND DAYS Tuesday-Saturday $32 during FAIR WEEK

11 a.m. to Closing (Tuesday - Saturday) Youth Exhibit Buildings: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fair Office: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Mon.-Sat.) Food Vendors: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Mon.-Sat.) *A few are open for breakfast* Commercial Exhibits: 11 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.(Monday-Friday) 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.(Saturday) Trophy Room: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Monday-Saturday) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Sunday, Aug. 23)

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Adults, Day Pass: $8 Children (5-12), Day Pass: $5 65 & Over, Day Pass: $5 Military Day Pass: $5 Adult Season Pass: $23 Child Season Pass: $12 65 & Over Season Pass: $14 Military Season Pass: $14 ---Gates CLOSE at 10 p.m. daily---

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Magic of Jonathon LaChance

See a classic magic show with tricks and illusions. FREE shows daily at the South end of the Farm & Power area. Sponsored by:

Daily Mall Entertainment! Al Barbott Memorial Stage Courtesy Shuttles & Tram Service Sponsor: Country Heritage Credit Union Shuttle Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Chikaming Township approves SRO contract

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the Chikaming Township Board approved an agreement for a School Resource Officer for River Valley Schools at their Thursday, Aug. 13, meeting. Supervisor David Bunte said that the township had “temporarily rescinded our agreement with the school as a resource officer supply through the township;” however, the school had requested the township to revisit the matter. Deputy Chief Jason Roe and police chief Todd Taylor had engaged with the school and worked out a new three-year agreement, which ensures that the township will be supplying an officer again for the upcoming school year. The board was approving the contract on the condition that the township’s attorney and the school’s attorney will be looking at it and finalizing the wording with the police department. The SRO may be at certain sporting events dependent upon the crowd that’s being expected, and an officer short on hours may cover the event and not an SRO. Per the contract, the SRO’s hours will 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for 180 days. Board members approved a proposal from Wightman for the Riverside Cemetery Expansion Project.

structure that Bunte said was reviewed in the township March, adding has received that there was preliminary a challenge design work to “try to and is now budget for looking to the revenues get into the that would final design, be generated bidding and by the STR construction program and oversight for Payton Lijewksi subsequent and Emily Walters the project. The need to have total estimated 24/7 coverage, cost for inspections” and everything design, bidding services, and else that goes along with the administrating construction program. is $48,600. In line items and total Total estimated cost for expenditures that had been the expansion is $347,000, worked out by fire marshall which includes plantings, Brad Miller, costs from column barium, all water now through November lines, access road and are projected to be around sidewalks. Half of the $38,000, and his proposed expansion’s funding could inspection rental budget for come from the building rest of the fiscal year would fund, while the other half be $267,000. could come from the road maintenance one. rojected revenues Bunte said Wightman will based on the at least get bids out this fall current number of and may start the project licenses and fees over the winter or the spring. associated with Board members approved them are $525,000. moving forward with Getting into the annualized preliminary estimates as budget for next year, Bunte presented regarding the Fire said they’re looking at costs Marshall Department Budget that are around $525,000. for the remainder of fiscal The board will need to year 2026-2027 and the amend the current budget to 2027-2028 fiscal year. incorporate the revenues and Bunte said this was with expenses for the remainder regards to the short-term of this year. rental changes in the zoning Board members ordinance and the fee approved Noah Sharum,

Payton Lijewski and Emily Walters, who are full-time New Buffalo Township firefighters, as part-time firefighters/EMT basics. Fire chief Allen Weich said that this was the next step in the process that’s part of the agreement with New Buffalo Township, which includes sharing equipment that’s assigned to Chikaming’s full-time staff members “to allow us to work at the other agencies and not have to pay for additional PBE and safety equipment.” All three have recently received their EMT Basic licenses. Board members approved authorizing parks director Joe Martin to resubmit the application with the Michigan Alcohol Licensing Commission because of the Music in Park’s Aug. 15 concert being moved to Aug. 28 at Harbert Community Park. Along with Aug. 28’s concert, which will feature P.S. Dump Your Boyfriend at 8 p.m., the second to last concert will be Saturday, Aug. 22, with Livia Gazzolo (Sandburg Pavilion) at 5:30 p.m. and Martha Cares Jazz Ensemble (Main Stage) at 7 p.m. Board members approved purchasing a new air conditioning unit for the main meeting room and lobby from Belke.

The Narcissist fears being hated. — Dino N. Fatouros

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO VANCE PRICE, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL MARK ROBERTSON, ROGER LIJEWSKI, KAREN GEAR, RICH KNOLL, VANCE PRICE City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD HOWARD MALES, MICHELLE HEIT, MICHELLE HANNON, PATTY IAZZETTO, BARBARA ANDERSON Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 4PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM SHERIFF BERRIEN COUNTY Sheriff, Chuck Heit Undersheriff, Greg Sanders NEW BUFFALO AREA RECREATIONAL AUTHORITY Meets at 9AM on the 2nd Wednesday of every other month (odd) at New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Highway New Buffalo NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD LISA WERNER, JOHN HASKINS, DENISE CHURCHILL, JENNIFER SUMMERS, VANESSA THUN, STEPHEN DONNELLY, GREG VOSBERG The Board meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 6PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, ARTHUR ANDERSON 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 at 5PM EST KIMBERLY WOLNIK, CLERK-TREASURER HARRY WALDER, JACK GRACE, ED SEBASTIAN, PETER DOERR, EDWARD BRANDES MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

City council approves equipment purchases

BY THERESE DONNELLY

he New Buffalo City Council untabled a discussion from their July meeting and discussed the purchase of a vehicle to be used for parking enforcement, replacing the current 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. Village Manager Darwin Watson said once the new vehicle arrives, the Silverado will be transferred to the Parks Department for use. Due to new mandates from the FBI and Michigan State Police, the council approved the purchase of six new radios for the city police department. Watson told the council half of the department’s 22 radios were too old for updates required to meet the new standards. As funds and time allow, other radios will be replaced. The police department will also update its body cameras. In a promotional offer from Midwest Public Safety, the police department will replace its current camera system, which Watson reported is largely out of warranty, making repairs and replacements costly. The new system will cost $25,961.66. Officers will also use new training equipment in the form of Simunition training equipment. Watson explained the equipment from Kiesler Police Supply will allow officers to meet continuing education requirements without the need to travel. Simunition uses non-lethal

cartridges to allow firearms training in real-world scenarios. The council approved the purchase for $8,806.28. Other equipment in the city that has been deemed obsolete will be put up for auction through an auction service. The council approved using Rangerbid, which has previously sold surplus property for the city. Trick or treat in the city will take place Sunday, Oct. 25. The council approved a special event application for the annual Halloween Parade downtown. The parade will begin at 2 p.m., and trick or treat will run from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. The city’s most recent agreement with Northrop Assessing Inc. to provide property assessing services expired on June 30, 2026. The council approved a new three-year agreement for a total of $115,092.24. Exit One Events hosted a series of festivals in the downtown during the summer. The council approved a request from Exit One executive director John Moultrie to establish annual dates for future events. The non-competing schedule will include the weekend prior to Memorial Day, the second weekend in August and the weekend prior to Columbus and Indigenous Peoples Day. Current payment kiosks at the public beach lot do not accept contactless payment methods. The Council

approved the $10,500 purchase of new equipment that will accept Apple and Google Pay. Watson said the additional payment options will allow for quicker payments, reducing lines entering the beach lots. The city recently installed a new water main on North Drive. Now that work is done, repaving is needed. The council approved a bid from Affordable Paving and Bulldozing in the amount of $33,880, with the cost split between the Street and Water departments. While they made no decisions, the council discussed the prudence of continuing Independence Day fireworks displays, noting increasing costs for both the pyrotechnics and employee overtime.

ayor Vance Price presented the council with potential plans to upgrade the annual ice rink at Oselka Park. The council denied a request from Surf Internet for an exception to the city’s hawking and peddling restrictions to have a door-to-door campaign offering their internet services. Watson advised the council not to approve it, expressing concerns that allowing one exception would open the door to more organizations requesting exceptions.

Never open your mouth, unless you’re in the dentist chair. — Sammy Gravano “The Bull”

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Village council updated on GLO program BY THERESE DONNELLY

t was water, water everywhere during the Three communities that do not chlorinate. Oaks Village Council meeting Aug. 12, as recent She said making chlorination a permanent measure storms, lead line identification and potential would require extra sampling. The Village would need water treatment changes were addressed. to purchase equipment to automate the chlorination The village has been participating in the State process as employees had to periodically come into of Michigan’s “Get the Lead Out” (GLO) program, the treatment plant to add the chlorine. aimed at identifying and replacing lead service The council made no decisions during the meeting. lines in the water system. Recently, many residents The council also tabled a decision on how to throughout the village have been contacted about proceed with a water rate study. Options include inspections to determine if service lines leading into paying consulting firm Bendzinski & Co., for a their homes contain lead, or galvanized steel that was study, or doing their own research. The council had once connected to lead. discussed authorizing Councilmember Lois Jones to If lead is detected in supply lines, have remote access to limited village EGLE will replace the identified lines at documents to do the research. In response to no cost to the property owners. Councilmember Becky Thomas extremely high Representatives from the Michigan expressed concerns that making the lead levels in Flint, Department of Environment, Great Michigan, in 2018, information available remotely could Lakes and Energy (EGLE) gave a the state adopted leave the Village open to liability. She presentation on their GLO program the strictest lead also asked if independent research and efforts in the village. and copper rules would be able to project a five or tenIn response to extremely high lead in the country, year plan the way Bendzinski would levels in Flint, Michigan, in 2018, limiting lead levels and noted the possibility of longthe state adopted the strictest lead in municipality term chlorination would need to be water supplies at and copper rules in the country, accounted for. 12 parts per billion limiting lead levels in municipality Plans to develop the former Schwark compared to 15 water supplies at 12 parts per billion Drainage District at 6974 US 12 into a ppb federal limits, compared to 15 ppb federal limits, 34-home development are advancing. and established a and established a 20-year deadline The Planning Commission approved 20-year deadline to to remove all lead and copper water remove all lead and a site plan for Allan Edwin Homes’ service lines. Since then, federal copper water service Oakfield project. At the council standards have tightened, and lines. Since then, meeting, Dan Fedde, community Michigan adjusted its deadline to 17 federal standards development director for Berrien years to comply with new standards. have tightened, and County, explained the County had EGLE representatives said the most Michigan adjusted approved a tax-increment financing recent sampling in Three Oaks showed its deadline to 17 (TIF) plan for the project. He explained levels at 12 ppb. The next routine test is years to comply with under the agreement, Allan Edwin will scheduled for 2027. new standards. assume the upfront costs of certain Communities throughout the infrastructure, including roads, and state are taking park in the GLO program. More the county will reimburse those costs, with interest, information can be found at Michigan.org/egle. through property taxes collected on the development. The village issued a boil water order in July due Once the reimbursement is complete, taxes will be to a high bacteria level in test samples. As part of collected as normal with monies going to the Village the measures to clear the contamination, the village and County. Fedde said TIF agreements typically take treated its water supply with chlorine until Aug. 25 years to complete. 12. Speaking to the council on the matter, Heather Council members said they did not like the idea of Bishop, District Supervisor at EGLE, explained EGLE not collecting tax money for several years but said supports chlorination as a health measure to kill the village currently does not collect any taxes on the bacteria, which can be introduced into water systems land. They approved the resolution of support for the through damaged lines a loss in pressure. She said EGLE sees an increased number of TIF. bacteria outbreaks during summer months in Related to the development plans, Fedde explained

that the developers are only purchasing about half the parcel from the county, which leaves roughly 16 landlocked acres. He said Berrien County was willing to convey that land to the village for $105, the cost for splitting fees. The land is adjacent to Carver Park, and Fedde said the village could use it for additional parking, or an access point into the new development. The council voted to purchase property 5-1, with Jones dissenting. In a separate act, the council voted to purchase a property at 4 W. Linden Street, with plans to tear down the house. Jones said the village had previously condemned derelict properties and asked why purchasing this property was the better option this time. Village Attorney Charles Hilmer said in this case purchasing the property would be more expedient than going through the legal process of condemning the property. Rather than conduct a stop sign study for the intersection of Maple and Elm, the council agreed to ask the Michigan Department of Transportation to evaluate the intersection first. If MDOT determines a stop sign is needed, the village can proceed with sign installation and if MDOT does not determine a sign is needed, the village can then seek a paid study.

olice Chief Carl Krause submitted his resignation at the council’s June meeting, with an agreement to extend his notice, if needed, while the village seeks a new chief. Faulkner said the job posting recently ended and he is putting together an interview committee. While the village continues searching for a chief, the council voted to extend Krause’s term The council approved street closure requests for the River Valley High School homecoming parade Sept. 25, and the elementary school Halloween parade Oct. 26. This year, trick or treat in the village will be Saturday, Oct. 31. The council approved the 2027 holiday schedule. Judy Mondello submitted her resignation from the Public Safety Committee. While approving the resignation, Village President Steve Graziano asked if the village still needs the committee as a whole. Faulkner said he would research the question and report at the September council meeting. The amended budget hearing for the 2027 fiscal year is set for Sept. 28, starting at 6 p.m.

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Judge sentenced for OWI in Michigan City

30 N Whittaker St Bar by night

BY STAN MADDUX

judge has been sentenced for driving impaired just two days after his arrest in Michigan City. Porter County Superior Court 4 Judge Christopher Buckley Open Thursday-Monday was placed on 180 days of probation thefalsefrontbar.com for Class C misdemeanor operating while intoxicated. He was also ordered into substance abuse treatment. Buckley, 46, was arrested Saturday night near the city’s lakefront and stepped into a courtroom for a hearing on Monday wanting to plead guilty. La Porte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan said his office agreed with his request and the quickly negotiated sentence for reasons that include Buckley being a first time offender. Fagan said the punishment was also standard for a first time OWI conviction without the involvement of major circumstances like injury or death. “It made sense,” he said. According to Michigan City Police, Buckley was stopped about 9 p.m. in

the 200 block of Heisman Harbor for driving and parking in an area that he was not supposed to be in. Police said Buckley, who was driving a 2024 gray Lincoln Navigator, exhibited symptoms of impairment such as slurred speech, glassy and watery eyes along with unsteady balance. His alleged blood alcohol level was .221-percent. Buckley has since suspended his campaign for a second term as judge and released a statement. “I feel strongly that officers of the court should be held to a higher standard of conducdt than an ordinary citizen, much higher than the standard of conduct I displayed this past Saturday night. I can place no blame on anyone but myself for this weekend’s actions. I am, however, grateful for the opportunity that this created to get help,” he said. Buckley also said he has struggled with alcohol since his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Over 20-years ago.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

ynergy happens when two or more things, people, or groups join forces and the result is better and stronger than what each part could do on their own. People often call this the 2 + 2 = 5 effect. When a team has synergy in sports, they usually exceed expectations. A good general manager will try to put together not only good players, but good players that have traits that are team oriented. There are times when all the togetherness in the world isn’t enough to overcome the opponent because the opponent just has too much skill, but the underdog sometimes prevails. I started thinking about synergy when I returned to Chicago after spending last week in Harbor Country. My extended family, about 30 of us, spent the rainy week inside much more than usual, and adults and children, brothers and sisters, cousins young and old, locals and those from out of state, all laughed, played board games and cards, and generally had a great time in spite of an occasional bump in the road. Each one a fine individual but together a family that I’m proud to call my own. I hope you’re lucky enough to have a great family, but if you aren’t that lucky, do all you can to make it happen. The Sox and Cubs continue to play excellent baseball. The Sox swept the Tigers over the weekend and while the Cubs lost two of three to the Cardinals, both clubs remained in the drivers seat to make the playoffs where anything can happen.

The Bears opened their preseason with a victory over Cleveland and the team still hasn’t decided where to build their new stadium The week ended with a group of us attending a celebration of life for one of New Buffalo’s finest. Hundreds gathered to pay their respects to Brad Price, a young man who truly loved life, and brought a lot of joy to those who were fortunate enough to know him. Personally, I knew Brad through my children and we gathered along with hundreds of other friends to share stories as Brad would have wished. One of Brad’s super powers was his ability to connect with people. From youngsters to grandparents, Brad would look you in the eye, smile, and find the right words to make you feel at ease. He passed much too soon. R.I.P. young man. These recent events have caused me to remember that life is short and while we all need our rest, it’s better not to spend too much time procrastinating. Live life to the fullest extent possible. Find activities and people who make you happy and spend as much time as you can with them. Everyone deserves happiness and I think you’ll find, that in most cases, if you greet life with kindness and a smile, life will smile back at you. Mother Teresa said, “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.” Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself. — Leonardo da Vinci

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Charges in serious injury crash along railroad tracks

BY STAN MADDUX

n 18-year-old driver is facing potential time in prison in connection with serious injuries to her passengers from a collision in Michigan City during a pursuit. Jaelyn Maida is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with Level 3 felony resisting law enforcement and three counts of Level 5 felony criminal recklessness. Police said an officer on the night of Aug. 14 tried stopping Maida for driving the wrong way down a oneway street on W. 11th Street. The Michigan City woman allegedly accelerated and during a short pursuit crashed into a guardrail along the South Shore Railroad commuter line

tracks. All three of her passengers sustained life-threatening injuries, including an adult who was later flown to a regional hospital for more advanced care, police said. The remaining juvenile passengers were still hospitalized Monday at Franciscan Health, police said.

olice said investigators are waiting for the results of a blood test, but suspect alcohol was a contributing factor in the collision. The names of the injured passengers and other details were not released. Maida was being held in the La Porte County Jail on a $15,000 bond.

Vehicle versus train crash fatality in Chikaming Township

train struck a vehicle, resulting in a fire and fatality, in Chikaming Township Tuesday, Aug. 18. Per a press release from Chiakming Deputy Chief Jason Roe, at approximately 9:56 a.m., the Chikaming Township Police Department was dispatched to a vehicle-versus-train crash in the 14000 block of Red Arrow Highway. “While responding, officers were advised that the vehicle was occupied on fire and was fully engulfed. The Chikaming Township Fire Department and New Buffalo Township Fire Department were also dispatched and quickly extinguished the fire,” the release stated. Upon arrival, officers were advised that an Amtrak train traveling southbound had struck a vehicle

traveling westbound at the East Road crossing near Red Arrow Highway. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was 72-year-old Paul Rizzo of Lakeside, Michigan.

he crash remains under investigation, and no further details are available currently. Assisting agencies included the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol and Accident Investigation Team, Berrien County Weighmaster, Berrien County Road Department, New Buffalo Police Department, Michigan State Police Motor Carrier, Amtrak Police, Chikaming Township Fire Department, New Buffalo Township Fire Department, CSX, and Amtrak. — STAFF REPORTS

Clean-up from historic storm damage could take weeks

BY STAN MADDUX

a Porte Mayor Tom Dermody has declared a state of emergency for the city because of historic levels of damage from a recent hurricane-like storm. While covered under the emergency declarations by county government and the governor, Dermody said the state of emergency for the city is an effort to maximize the resources and assistance available from government agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency. At one point, officials said over 14,000 of the city’s 23,000 residents were without power from an August 11 storm that toppled over 1,000 trees in the community from winds of 80 to 100 miles per hour. Alex Page suffered obvious damage to the roof of his two story home at Maple Ave. and Tyler St., but it was too early know the full extent of the necessary repairs. Page said he was home when the late morning/early afternoon storm hit. “We heard a big snap,” he said. Page said he thought a branch came down but was shocked to see a large uprooted tree on his roof when he went outside. His reaction was “oh, God. It’s the whole tree.” Kyle Russell with Forrester’s Quality Tree Experts said his office after the storm received dozens of calls from people needing fallen trees

removed. “We’ll be out and about the next couple of weeks at least,” he said. Russell and other members of his crew were about finished removing a large tree from a house at B and 4th streets in a job that began the previous evening after the storm. He said it took at least twice as long to drive back to the shop a few miles west of La Porte from having to find other routes around the many streets blocked by fallen trees. “They came down fast and hard,” he said. Northern Indiana Public Service Company said the number of power outages from the storm was the most ever for the utility company in recent memory.

ccording to NIPSCO, over 300,000 of the utility company’s 500,000 customers throughout northern Indiana were without service at one point. There were still over 90,000 remaining outages a week later, including over 1,100 outages in La Porte and less than 600 in Michigan City, according to NIPSCO. “While thousands of customers have been restored since the storm, the unprecedented extent of the damage means restoration progress may vary by community,” NIPSCO said.

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teenage boy drowned in Lake Michigan at Michigan City on Monday, Aug. 17. According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, a 911 call just before 2 p.m. indicated the male swimmer had gone under the water and failed to resurface. First responders from multiple

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Teenager drowns in Lake Michigan

BY STAN MADDUX

agencies arrived quickly at the residential access point and initiated a search. DNR said a Michigan City firefighter soon located the victim, entered the water and brought him to shore where lifesaving measures started immediately.

he victim, a 16-year-old from East Brunswick, New Jersey, was transported by ambulance to Franciscan Health hospital where he

later died. Indiana Conservation Officers and the La Porte County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate.

The identity of the victim was not released. Assisting agencies included the Michigan City Police Department, Michigan City Fire Department, Long Beach Police Department, La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, and La Porte County EMS.

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10 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Township board denies SLU request from Phoenix Logistics ADOPTS RESOLUTION REVOKING TRAP STARS’ SLU PERMIT

ew Buffalo Township Board unanimously approved a motion denying Phoenix Logistics’ request for Special Land Use to operate a contractor storage yard at 19701 Kluver Road at their Aug. 17 meeting. The motion stated the request doesn’t meet the standards set forth in 455-8.2, Standards for Special Land Use Approval, in the zoning ordinance. In April, Will Shroyer, who was speaking on behalf of Phoenix Investors, said the property was being used “on a temporary basis to support an active construction project in Michigan City.” Per an April press release from the Economic Development Corporation of Michigan City, Google acquired the data center development, Project Maize, at the long-vacant building at 402 Royal Road. The site has been owned by Phoenix Investors since 2022. Residents who packed the township hall expressed concerns that approving the request could lead to a future data center development in the township. Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that the request wasn’t for a data center but was “definitely for a contractor storage yard;” however, she acknowledged Phoenix “did not come to us in the manner that I would’ve expected from the start when they purchased the property to see what they could or couldn’t do on that property.” “They didn’t apply for a special land use, so I think the trust is not super high with these folks,” she said, adding that “after listening to everyone, I have concerns.” If the SLU had been approved, a separate agreement was drawn up outlining several stipulations, such as requiring them to replace the road, to have no offsite fill, no data center would be constructed and no electronic components, as well that there be a performance bond to restore the property back to its original state. Clerk Michelle Hannon said she’d

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

violations, some items like to see a “nationwide are resolved violations, moratorium” on data some items are merely centers “to get a handle on allegations, some items what is actually needed.” involve comment by a third She said that while she’s party,” he said. “heard the comments that Trap Stars admitted to you get your foot in the the two CRA (Cannabis door easily and then you Regulatory Agency) can’t stop them,” she said consent orders, “paid research revealed that the fines, completed corrective way this seems to happen actions” and the CRA would be for there to be Denise Churchill speaks “expressly provided that a permanent structure – on potential data center upon compliance, the which wouldn’t be allowed matters were resolved and on the property. they were closed.” Trustee Howard Males He said the board is said that Phoenix “may have being asked to “consider picked the wrong township” very different kinds of regarding site selection. information.” Regarding an “Everyone who testified alleged 2026 undercover today their site selection purchase in a sheriff’s was they want to live in report in the board’s New Buffalo Township and packet, there’s “no CRA that is very important – that complaint, no consent you’re residents, that this is order, no criminal charge” Ren Nash speaks on your township,” he said. and that it “remains just an potential data center He agreed with Heit allegation.” that even though it’s an Behrendt said the industrial site, its proximity to a golf consuming of marijuana occurred in a community and residences don’t make it parking lot of a dispensary adjacent to the best fit. Trap Stars and a sheriff’s report said the Treasurer Patricia Iazzetto said that individuals involved reported purchasing “this is where you want to live, you marijuana from Urb Cannabis – “Trap invested into this community, and you Stars was not cited.” are part of our community, you are our community – you’re the heart of it.” s stated in the resolution, a Board members adopted a resolution CRA consent order includes revoking Trap Stars Outlet’s special land admitted violations of a use permit. failure to restrict access to A public hearing was held, and board the establishment’s restricted members voted in favor of a motion and limited access areas; failure to keep to establish findings of fact to support surveillance recordings for a minimum revocation. of 30 days; failure to keep surveillance Representing Trap Stars Outlet, recordings in a manner that allows attorney Adam Behrendt said that the the CRA to be able to obtain copies record before the board includes “very immediately upon request.” different categories of evidence and treats The second one includes admitted them as if they all same weight.” violations that include failure to accurately enter all transactions, current “There are a handful of proven

inventory and other information into statewide monitoring system and notify the CRA and local law enforcement within 24 hours of criminal activity. Underlying facts included a sale to a single individual of 2,170 grams of marijuana products distributed among 447 products, far in excess of 2.5-ounce personal possession limit and point of sale records entered only after the sales occurred. Law enforcement officers assigned to the Southwest Enforcement Team acting in undercover capacity purchased approximately 1 pound of marijuana and three bottles each containing four ounces of THC-infused syrup from Trap Stars in “cash transaction for which no receipt was provided.” Trap Stars “didn’t report this bulk purchase to CRA or law enforcement,” the resolution states. The resolution also states the township’s code enforcement officer “personally observed and warned individuals consuming marijuana in the customer line outside Trap Stars.” Lt. Thad Chartrand of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Southcounty Patrol also reported “on multiple occasions while onsite at Trap Stars, he’s observed the door to the sales floor propped open.” There was also a citation supported by surveillance video by a neighboring business for being open to customer sales after 9 p.m. Upon adoption, Trap Stars “shall immediately cease retail marijuana operations on the property.” Board members granted preliminary approval of a Planned Unit Development submitted by RMM 13912 LLC & 19701 US 12 LLC at 19701 U.S. 12. The following outdoor assembly permits were approved: Seedz Brewery for Oct. 3; Exit 4 Storage for a fall pumpkin patch every Friday through Saturday starting Sept. 25 through Nov. 1, Elevated Exotics Sept. 12, Cookies Oct. 9-11, Gramz Sept. 18-20, and High Society Aug. 29.

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OBITUARIES

What’s Happening, Hillary? YOUR CURATED GUIDE TO THE BEST IN NEW BUFFALO, AND BEYOND! AUGUST 17-22, MONDAY-SATURDAY

• Berrien County Youth Fair | Berrien Springs | Daily until 10PM [Tickets]

AUGUST 20, THURSDAY

• Brews and Bingo at Round Barn Brewery & Public House | Baroda | 6-8PM [Free] • Trivia Night at SideYard | Sawyer | 6:308PM [Free] • Live Music at Barndogg at 7PM, The Acorn at 7PM, Buchanan Common at 7PM

AUGUST 21, FRIDAY

• Tiki Time Theme Night at Peat’s Cider Social | Stevensville | 4-10PM [Free] • Garrison Keillor Tonight at The Acorn | Three Oaks | 8PM [Tickets] • The Fortunate Sons - CCR Tribute at Live at the Lakefront | Michigan City | 8PM CT [Cover Charge] • Dueling Pianos with Twilight Tunes at Round Barn Estate | Baroda | 6PM CT [Cover Charge] • Music Bingo at SideYard | Sawyer | 7-9PM [Free] • Additional Live Music at Lemon Creek Winery at 5PM, Union Pier Social at 7PM, Burn ‘Em Brewing at 7:30PM CT, Four Winds New Buffalo at 9PM

AUGUST 22, SATURDAY

• Run to the Center of the World 5K | New Troy | 10AM [Register] • Harvest Party at Round Barn Estate | Baroda | Saturday & Sunday 11AM-6PM [Cover Charge] • Skip’s European Farmer’s Market | New Buffalo | Saturday & Sunday 9AM-3PM [Free] • An Afternoon with Marquee Sports Network broadcaster Alex Cohen at the Vicker’s Theater | Three Oaks | 12PM [Tickets] • Live Music at Gravity Winery at 12PM, Round Barn Estate at 12PM and 3:30PM, St. Julian Union Pier at 2PM, Round Barn Tasting Room at 3PM, Rolling Embers at 4PM, Chill Hill Winery at 5PM, Harbert Community Park at 5:30PM, Dewey Cannon Park at 6:30PM, Lake Time Brewing at 7PM, Buchanan Common at 7PM, SideYard Sawyer at 7PM, Union Pier Social at 7PM, Live at the Lakefront in Michigan City at 7:30PM CT, The Acorn at 8PM, Four Winds Casino New Buffalo at 9PM

AUGUST 23, SUNDAY

• Opera in the Gardens at Friendship Botanical Gardens | Michigan City | 4PM CT [Tickets] • Live Music at St. Julian Tasting Room in Union Pier at 2PM, Gravity Winery at 2PM, Round Barn Estate at 2:30PM, Dablon Winery at 3PM, Shoreline Brewery at 3PM CT, Burn ‘Em Brewing at 5PM CT

AUGUST 24, MONDAY

• Hidden Gems Reading Series “When Monica Met Hillary” at Dunes Arts Foundation | Michigan City | 7PM CT [Tickets] • Sommer Soiree: Blush & Brie at Dablon | Baroda | 7PM [Tickets]

AUGUST 26, WEDNESDAY

• Music in the Park at New Buffalo Township Park | New Buffalo| 6:30PM [Free]

AUGUST 27, THURSDAY

• Trivia Night at SideYard | Sawyer | 6:30PM [Free]

AUGUST 28, FRIDAY

• Live Music at Lemon Creek Winery at 5PM, SideYard at 7PM, Union Pier Social at 7PM • Dogstar ALL IN NOW Tour (featuring Keanu Reeves) at Four Winds | New Buffalo | 9PM [Tickets]

AUGUST 29, SATURDAY

• Inn2Inn Swim - a 1.8 mile swim from Lakeside Inn to Gordon Beach Inn | Lakeside/Union Pier | 9AM [Free] • Needle Felting Class for Beginners: Frog at Sandpiper | Bridgman | 1PM [Tickets] • Live Music at Gravity Winery at 12PM, Round Barn Estate at 12PM, Round Barn Tasting Room at 3PM, Local Pour 4PM, Dewey Cannon Park at 6:30PM, Union Pier Social at 7PM, SideYard 7PM, The Nightingale at 7PM CT, Zorn at 7:30PM CT, Knuckleheads at 8PM CT, Live at the Lakefront in Michigan City at 7:30PM CT, The Acorn at 8PM

AUGUST 30, SUNDAY

Anna Irene Goodenough 1940-2026

nna Irene Goodenough, 86, of Galien, died peacefully Wednesday, August 12, 2026 in the comfort of her family’s presence. Her life began March 7, 1940 in Niles, Michigan the youngest of three children born to Harold and Gladys Holston. She married Don Goodenough August 4, 1962 in Buchanan. He preceded her in death April 17, 2019. Anne was a proud elementary school educator and principal for many years. The schools in Galien and Mancelona held a very special place in her heart. To Anne, every student mattered, and many of her closest friendships were with members of her school family. Anne had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved cats, Sweetie, Sadie, and Callie. She was known for her strong faith, her deep love and devotion to her family, and her unwavering commitment to helping anyone in need. Anne enjoyed many things in life, including the fair, the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts, and supporting her grandchildren in all of their activities. She loved to sing more than she loved to speak, and she was always quick to make up a story to entertain anyone and everyone around her. Silly, sassy, and full of personality, Anne always had a quip, a clever remark, or something smart to say. Anne had a lifelong love of poetry and wrote hundreds of poems throughout her life. She also loved reading and enjoyed music of all kinds and genres. Some of her favorite memories were made with her

grandchildren. She loved playing games with them, spending hours outside together, soaking up the sunshine, and watching them grow. She especially enjoyed taking her grandchildren to musicals and plays and sharing her love of the arts with them. In her younger years, Anne frequently traveled to North Dakota to visit family. She and Don also enjoyed traveling with their family, making memories together across many states. Anne’s love for her family, her students, her animals, and the many people whose lives she touched will remain a lasting part of her legacy. Her faith, humor, creativity, generosity, and wonderfully spirited personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Anne will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by two daughters, DeeAnne (Jeff) Lashua of Buchanan and Karen Goodenough of Galien, two sons, Craig (Kris) Goodenough of Galien and Doug (Lisa) Goodenough of Kalamazoo, six grandchildren Kaitlin, Haley, Alyssa, Lena, Paitynn, Michael, one sister, Virginia Rustad of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, two sisters-in-law, Dottie Goodenough of Galien, Betty Odiorne of Gentry, Arkansas and a host lifelong friends and family. She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Grace Anne, one brother Tom Holston. Family and friends gathered Monday, August 17, 2026 from 12:00 noon until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 East Ash Street, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128. Anne will be laid to rest beside her husband in Galien Township Cemetery. The family prefers contributions in memory of Anne be made to Redbud Area Ministries. 708 Red Bud Trail North, Buchanan, Michigan 49107. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals. Please share a memory or a message online at www. wagnercares.com.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 13

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14 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

A Writer’s Life...

From the Dish Pit...

A HIGHSCHOOLER’S TAKE ON REAL LIFE TOPICS

BY SYLVIE DARLING o Fall or to Fly harder as you When I was younger, I used continue. Two to have dreams about flying. hours in, I found These were the best and myself trembling in the worst kinds of dreams, front of a computer screen, attempting to filled with a fluttering, whimsical sort of solve for X in the problem 2X=10. How exhilaration that eventually melted into on earth was I supposed to answer a math stomach-wrenching fear. I was never problem with letters in it?! I had failed. afraid as I launched myself into the air. I was stupid, I was weak; my wings had Instead, I felt strong. Capable. Free. My snapped, and I was falling again. wings would flatten out as I caught a From that point on, I feared failure with steady breeze and soared over the rivers every bone of my body and constantly and cities beneath me, all shrunken and protected myself from experiencing it. I intertwined like a net I was no longer pulled myself away from the spotlight, entangled in. I’m free, I can remember held friendships at arm’s length, and only thinking. I’m finally free. But then I would pursued bubble-wrapped activities in realize how high up I was. Suddenly, my which I knew I could succeed. For so long, wings became paper-thin and would lose I allowed this fear to restrict my freedom, their purchase against the unforgiving air. The remainder of these dreams involved a pushing me away from my true passions and potential. But at times, I was forced horrifying plummet, my desperate flailing to jump. I shakily flew toward advanced motions accompanied by soundless classes and creative opportunities I shrieks and sickening flashes of the was sure I’d fail at. To my surprise, my unforgiving earth below. Thankfully, I wings held. Now, I am stepping out onto always awoke before I hit the ground. With each dream, I learned to hold onto the ledge, and the whirlwind of college applications and writing opportunities the feeling of flying longer and longer. and new, terrifying roles swirl high above Strong. Capable. Free. But eventually, I my head. With enough courage, I can leap was falling again. I used to think these dreams were derived from a subconscious towards them and trust my developing wings to propel me. And while the fear of fear of heights; but now I know they came failure still hammers in my chest, a new from a much deeper, stronger fear – one voice whispers Erin Hanson’s words: that I continue to experience today. “There is freedom waiting for you, on Failure. I first encountered it at the thebreezes of the sky, and you ask ‘What ripe age of 7, when I was ushered into a if I fall?’ Oh but my darling, what if you fly computer lab for one of those demonic standardized tests that gets progressively on the breezes?”

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

New Buffalo Times

— SINCE 1942 —

DURING THE GOLDEN AGE OF TELEVISION ANIMATION

BY JACK OLESKER

funny thing happened on the way to Jamaica… So the next day, after taking a couple hours to get acquainted with the ship and meet some of my new cruise mates, I was reclined on a chaise on the Lido Deck, watching the wake forming behind the ship as we ploughed through warm Caribbean waters. As a server neared, I was about to raise my hand to signal her when she caught my eye and broke into a trot. I was about to tell her what I wanted when she asked, “Another piña colada, Mr. Olesker?” I smiled and nodded and she was away in a flash, leaving me with two thoughts. First, I was pretty sure she wasn’t the server who’d brought me my first piña colada since his name was Raul and, second, since we’d only been at sea for twenty-four hours how did she know my last name? Moments later I thought, with a bit of a blush, how nice it was being called Mr. Olesker. I sighed, closed my eyes and slipped into Phase Three of The Adjustment: Total Relaxation. It lasted almost a full thirty seconds. Then, like a wave retreating from a shoreline, it was gone. One of the things that’s always perplexed and vexed me about my life was how every single time I think I’m happy with what I’ve got, I end up wanting something different… something more. It would be a decade until I’d finally find what I was really looking for…at a moment when looking for it was the last thing on my mind. But that’s another story. For now I thought I at least partially had what I was looking for – the Total Relaxation gained from Phase Three of

The Adjustment. My eyelids drooping down and closing, I thought about how when I sometimes tell someone to breathe, they usually look at me like I’m daft. They figure, “Well, everyone breathes.” But that’s not my definition of breathing. Breathing, in my book, means the slow, conscious act of taking a long, deep breath and then slowly and consciously letting it out. We go through life inhaling and exhaling about twenty-two thousand times a day, and most of us don’t think about it. But sometimes, when things get tense and we get stressed, I think it helps to take a time-out and just consciously and slowly breathe in and out four or five times so we can center ourselves and get a grip. And that’s what I did at that exact moment I was sitting in my chaise on the Lido Deck on this wonderful cruise because I was starting to get tense and stressed. I opened my eyes, thinking about how life was weird. I’d started out as a writer writing dark novels about murder and horror and I ended up hanging out with Care Bears and tiny creatures living in the walls of people’s homes and fuzzy critters that can turn themselves inside out and pixietails and an adorable kitty loved by two or three billion people around the world. I sighed, knowing I was overthinking things. As my server arrived with my piña colada, the sun beating down on me, an ocean breeze wafting by and steel drum music playing somewhere nearby, I took a sip of my drink and decided to table my ruminations for another time. As it turned out, that time would come in about half an hour.

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HOROSCOPE AUGUST 20-26, 2026

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

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER22—DECEMBER21

This week there may be some contentious energy to deal with and some adjustments will need to be made. The best way to approach difficulties with partners and friends is to compartmentalize things. Separate the feelings from the actions and put things in order according to their importance and need for action.

This is the week to handle financial matters and make adjustments with partners so that there is more of a balance in how purchases are made or bills are paid. There may be personality conflicts or different ideas of what is more important to buy or pay off but these differences be the catalyst to finding solutions quickly.

There may be some heavy burdens to deal with or a heavy workload to tackle this week but the stellar forces are there pushing you to meet deadlines effectively. Know that there may be some difficult conversations to have or some tough decisions to be made but you will be divinely guided through it.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

CAPRICORN DECEMBER22—JANUARY19

There is a very dramatic and expressive energy coming your way this week. Use it to the fullest by making adjustments to your participation levels at work and to the time you make for yourself. It’s important you leave work drama at work and make the most of the time you have alone to enjoy life and live freely.

Sometimes you have to put yourself first and deal with any health and well being issues you have before you can do your work efficiently and effectively. Whether it’s a dentist appointment you have been putting off or not taking the walks in the evening like you used to, take care of those things now.

There will be a definite pull between what you know is right and what other people are telling you they want to do. They may be coming to you for answers or advice but know they may not understand it or follow it. This is a teaching moment for you where you have to be tough to be effective and supportive.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The energy coming your way this week is all about facing your shadow side and doing some inner work. So, if you feel like seeking solitude and mediation, know that it is a divine push and if you follow it, the adjustments needed in your life will flow easily. Be kind to yourself and follow your inner light.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER21 You are moving into a more socially interactive time. This is the time to share ideas and network to know where you need to make changes or adjustments to your life. Don’t get discouraged by bad reviews or negative feedback. Use the criticism to perfect your work and push you to investigate things on a deeper level.

Don’t overlook the importance of putting your home life first, this week. This is the time to focus in on getting your home organized and everything in proper working order. Schedule the meetings with contractors, now. The more you handle business at home, the sooner you can get back to having fun with friends. This week there may be a lot of work to do around the house or a lot to take responsibility for with the family. The best way to approach situations is to talk it out or make a list. Put things down on paper and then get going. Face challenges and make adjustments. This is the time to act and be courageous.

Drama alert has been activated as you will be experiencing a lot tension with the things you want and the way the world around you seems to be responding. It’s like a divine hard time. Know that this is just a passing phase that is preparing you for the big opportunities that are coming in next month.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

The energy radiating from the stars is centered on your partnerships. There may be a pull between needing time for yourself and your partner needing your time and support. This is the time to truly evaluate the costs and rewards of this connection. Are you getting back what you are putting into this connection?

In strategy it is important to see distant things as if they were close and to take a distanced view of close things. — Miyamoto Musashi

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 15

16 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Vacation rental fire near lakefront

815 E Buffalo New Buffalo, MI 49117 Bus: 269-469-4442 Toll Free: 866-848-5266 www.tomrossman.net State Farm, Bloomington, IL 1211999

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

BY STAN MADDUX

he cause of a fire that heavily damaged a house in Michiana Shores remains under investigation. Emergency responders just after 6:30 a.m. on August 11 were called to 5701 Birchwood Trail. According to La Porte County Police, the owners of the home live in Chicago and use the dwelling as a vacation rental. Police said the house was unoccupied at the time of the fire because the last guests left the previous day because of a power outage at the residence from a major storm. A maintenance man told investigators everything seemed fine with the house when he walked through it after the guests left the premises, according to police. Police said fire damage was confined around a bedroom and bathroom on the lower level of the home. The damage included a heated concrete floor above the bedroom collapsing. No injuries were reported.

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— SINCE

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To Your Health COLUMN BY KAREN EDWARDS ND

PREPARING FOR THE UNEXPECTED

dehumidifier, batteries or other essentials. Think again. Everyone re you prepared in the cost-effective alternative else in the area is thinking the same the event of a natural to new thing. Panic and chaos become disaster? No housing one wants the scene. Stores sell out of these to think about this, but every day you turn on items immediately. The shelves are the news or read a newspaper that a bare. Shipments will not be arriving tragic event took place somewhere soon. in the world. Hurricanes, blizzards, The best plan is to have these ice storms, Tornadoes, floods, already in place. Hope that you wildfires, Landslides, Earthquakes, won’t need them, but have them etc. in the event that you do. The most Natural disasters can strike important needs of humans are food with little warning. It can cripple and water. If you have animals, don’t a community by disrupting local forget to stock up food for them too. infrastructure, and access to clean johnrtaylor1953@gmail.com When stocking up, make sure to water, gas and grocery stores. store shelf-stable foods that don’t Residential Builder Although it is not something that we need refrigeration, easy to open MI No.prepared 2102222731 wantLicense to think about, being and no cooking. Nut butters, beans, is one of the most important things protein bars, nuts, crackers, dry that you can do to safeguard cereals, trail mix, dried fruit, etc. your home and family during an Even having canned vegetables emergency. and soup is wise for an emergency Look at the recent powerful situation. derecho (inland hurricane)that just If needed, baby formula or special slammed the Midwest on August dietary foods. Your medicines. Keep 11th. It had straight-line winds of a supply of tinctures and herbal over 100 mph that spanned over supplements. Coffee, teas and 300 miles of damage in its trail. The bottled juices are easy to store and detriment is still going on. Downed nice to have available. Maybe even power lines, trees that fell on cars some chocolates and comfort snack and homes,roads blocked, while foods to help boost morale during grocery stores restaurants and gas stressful situations. stations were closed due to power It is recommended to have at least outages. a weeks’ worth of prepped food and All of these disasters strain our water for each person in the family. resources. Some disasters can leave 1942 — More is better. At least 1 gallon of long lasting effects. For instance, water per day per person (and per flooding that can contaminate water pet.) systems and block evacuation Don’t forget to store candles, routes. matches, flashlights,batteries, paper Disasters can happen to all of plates, disposable utensils, wipes us. What if your electric is out andtrash bags alongside your food for a period of time? No lights, stock. no computer, no phones. What if nothing comes out of your faucet to get water? Flush the toilet. Take a Disclaimer: Everything here is for shower. nutritional education and is not If you can even get down your road, don’t think that you can run meant to diagnose, treat prevent or to the store and grab bread, milk, cure. See your doctor when you have coffee and water, or get a generator, questions.

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LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

New Buffalo Times — SINCE 1942 —

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18 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Totzke, Martindale youth fair queen and king

va Totzke of Stevensville and Gavin Dandurand of Niles were chosen as Berrien County Youth Fair as the queen and king during a contest in the Grandstand at the fair Friday, Aug. 14. First runner up to the queen is Corinne Martindale of St. Joseph. The new royalty has had a busy week serving as public relations representatives of the fair, handing out ribbons and trophies, and attending ceremonies and concerts throughout the week, in addition to showing their exhibits. Ava is an 18-year-old student at Michigan State University. She is pursuing a degree in animal science with plans to become a large animal veterinarian. She will be entering a variety of exhibits including swine, poultry, home economics, crafts and horticulture at the fair this year. She is the daughter of Brett and Kris Totzke. Gavin is a 17-year-old student at Lake Michigan College. He is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. He will be showing in the swine and flower departments this year. He is the son of Heidi Dandurand. Corinne is a 16-year-old student at St. Joseph High School. She plans to join the military after high school. She shows in the horticulture, flower, home economics and crafts departments. She is the daughter of Tonya Parish. Just before the king and queen contest, the Berrien County Youth Fair held its 14th annual Prince and

Princess Contest. The contestants were aged anywhere between 9 and 12 years old and were required to be current BCYF exhibitors. Vivvian Zizkovsky of Stevensville and Nolan Baker of St. Joseph were chosen as this year’s BCYF princess and prince.

uties of the princess and prince are like the duties of the king and queen, so fairgoers have seen them around the fair attending various ceremonies and serving as public relations representatives. Vivvian is 12 years old. She shows in the crafts, horticulture, flower, dog and cat departments. She is the daughter of David and Andrea Zizkovsky. Nolan is 11 years old. He shows in the rabbit, home economics, flower and crafts departments. He is the son of Timothy and Tracie Baker. The 2026 Berrien County Youth Fair launched Monday Aug. 17, and ends Saturday, Aug. 22, with the theme “Happy Birthday America!” — STAFF REPORTS

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

Crop damage from storm not widespread in La Porte County

BY STAN MADDUX

rop damage from the Aug. 11 storm that packed up to 100 mile per hour winds seems rather limited for the most part in La Porte County. At least one field containing over 100 acres near Kingsford Heights, though, had a lot of corn plants knocked completely to the ground or left leaning by the hurricane force winds of the storm in places that also brought heavy rains. Farmer Mark Parkman said a small percentage of his corn plants on the outer edges of his fields had their stalks snapped below the ears and were left leaning. Parkman said he hasn’t been deeper into his fields yet to know if there’s any similar damage toward the center of his fields but doubts it since the outside plants take the brunt of the winds. “It could be worse inside than outside. Typically, not, but it can happen that way,” he said. Parkman, who also owns an excavating firm, said he hasn’t had a chance to try and get in his fields because he’s been helping remove the many fallen trees and limbs from the Westville area in what’s been an ongoing major clean-up. His corn and soybeans were already struggling to a certain extent from the wet spring and the wet growing season before the storm and the additional rain that fell later in the week. Farms in his area are slower draining because of heavy clay in the soil. “It’s not going to be a bumper crop. It hasn’t been all year long in my book. It’s just one more thing that’s going to hinder the crop in our area,” he said. Farmer Jeff Mitzner of Wanatah said there wasn’t much crop damage in his

area with just a few broken and leaning corn stalks in his fields along with some leaves stripped from the stalks by hail. Mitzner said his crops could have been hurt by the six inches of rain that fell last week, but he hasn’t been out in his fields recently to determine moisture levels. He still likes the condition of his corn and soybeans, which have benefited from having easier to drain sand in the soil. Mitzner said he spent the weekend in downstate Tipton welcoming a new grandchild into his family and witnessed the devastating flooding the recent storms brought to that part of the state. Some areas were below 20 feet of water in spots. “If I had my choice, I’d take the wind damage over the water damage because at least then you still have your valuables at home. There, houses were washed into the river,” he said.

armer Matt Schafer said his fields in LaCrosse and as far to the west as Kouts received anywhere from four to seven inches of rain last week. He also reported just minimal crop damage, but he could discover more once he goes deeper into his fields at some point. Schafer also said he’s worried now about the potential for disease and other things that hurt yields developing because of the recent heavy rains and lack of hot weather to evaporate the moisture faster. “We’re kind of in a wait and see mode. In our particular area, it would seem as though we might have dodged a bit of a bullet,” he said.

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