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New Buffalo Township citing violations to decide fate of dispensary
BY STAN MADDUX
Astep has been taken to possibly shutdown a marijuana dispensary in New Buffalo Township for alleged violations that include staying open past the 9 p.m. deadline and serving a minor.
The New Buffalo Township Board on Monday considered whether to revoke the special land use permits held by Trap Stars, The Plug, Refine and Mint Cannabis all located along U.S. 12 east of the city limits.
The township board voted unanimously to formally establish findings of fact that support revoking the special land use permit held by Trap Stars and decide whether to revoke their permit at its next meeting on July 20 at 5 p.m.
The board decided not to take action on the other dispensaries.
Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said the violations cited against Trap Stars beginning soon after the store opened late in 2024 were more numerous and over time represented a “pattern of non-compliance.”
She said such non-compliant behavior is not what she wants in the township and it’s not fair to other dispensaries “following the rules.”
During a public hearing, the township board learned Trap Stars was previously fined $6,500 by state regulators for failing to secure the sales floor containing marijuana products by leaving an entry door
propped open.
Trap Stars was also issued a previous fine of $9,000 for not entering all transactions and inventory into a state monitoring system as required.
Berrien County Police Lt. Thad Chartrand said his department has been sending underage people into dispensaries since January to make sure the stores are complying with selling their products only to customers at least 21 years of age as required by state law.
Chartrand said one of the underage people was able to purchase one pound of marijuana from Trap Stars, an amount that exceeds the limit of 2.5 ounces per transaction.
About two months ago, the township code enforcement department reported Trap Stars was cited for having multiple customers inside their store after the 9 p.m. state mandated closing time.
Other complaints against Trap Stars include people in line consuming marijuana even though use of the drug is prohibited at dispensaries and a customer urinating in public.
Adam Behrendt, an attorney for Trap Stars, said operators of the store were wrongly under the impression customers still in the store at 9 p.m. were allowed to complete their transactions before leaving.
He said Trap Stars is now making
sure all customers are out of their store at closing.
Behrendt also said the mistake with inventory happened at a time when an employee in charge of doing it took the day off and nobody else was there who could do it.
He said changes have since been made to make sure there’s always someone there who can enter the store’s inventory into the system.
Behrendt said an information technology person was also hired to maintain the video surveillance system and keep at least 30 days of video back-up as required.
He said many of the violations were a result of oversights from the ownership being new in a highly regulated industry. Now, the store managers constantly keep an eye on things to make sure all requirements are met.
Behrendt also said there have been anonymous complaints possibly from competitors or disgruntled employees against his clients that were determined not true after they were investigated.
“We have meetings every week to make sure everybody knows what they’re doing. “You’re talking about a multi-million-dollar investment that employs over 30 people. Obviously, Trap Stars wants to do everything the right way,” he said.
Calm down—relax. Your “friends” were actually never your friends. Friendship is one of the rarest things on earth—infinity. — Dino N. Fatouros
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
Township Board adopts data center moratorium ordinances
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Members of the Chikaming Township Board of Trustees adopted two ordinances regarding the township’s temporary moratorium on data centers at their rescheduled Tuesday, June 16, meeting.
Last month, the board passed a resolution establishing a one-year moratorium on data centers in the township, which Township Supervisor David Bunte said will allow them to take a year to “evaluate, through the Planning Commission and our current zoning ordinance, our current laws relating to data centers.”
The ordinances were developed by township attorney Charles Hilmer, who attended a conference that outlined the options for communities like Chikaming “to clearly evaluate where we stand, where our current zoning ordinances stand and what we can do to make sure that we are protecting the township” regarding data centers.
public health, safety, and welfare by establishing regulations relating to a limited moratorium on considering applications for data centers while the township completes a study of ordinances and regulations pertaining thereto; to provide for severability; to repeal all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict therewith; and to provide an effective date.”
The ordinances were developed by township attorney Charles Hilmer, who attended a conference that outlined the options for communities like Chikaming “to clearly evaluate where we stand, where our current zoning ordinances stand and what we can do to make sure that we are protecting the township” regarding data centers.
The second one allows for the township to “make findings to protect the public health, safety and welfare by establishing a temporary moratorium on data centers; to adopt an amendment to the township zoning ordinance to allow for temporary moratoriums generally; to implement a temporary moratorium on applications for data centers; to provide a term for the temporary data center moratorium; to provide for severability; to repeal all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict therewith; and to provide an effective date.”
signing a resolution from the Rebecca Dewey Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution regarding communities joining them in commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary.
An ordinance for a franchise agreement for Semco Energy for 30 more years was approved.
Board members approved a fire department grant application for battery-operated fire extrication tools. Fire chief Allen Weich said that they’ve been awarded $10,000 from the grant in the past and it’s now been increased to $50,000. There’s only $4 million, maybe up to $8 million, in funding; however, the cheapest of the tools from the list is around $14,000, so the department begin replacing all the tools, which will cost about $80,000.
Board members approved the department applying for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant for fiscal year 2026 for EMS equipment.
Weich said the micro grant allows up to $75,000, will be used to purchase a cardiac monitor and a Stryker LUCAS device, which Weich said is a batteryoperated CPR device.
“In essence, this is covering that topic as an ordinance, which gives us law, gives a little more teeth than simply a resolution as we move forward,” Bunte said.
The first ordinance will “protect the
Board members approved The Rotary Club of Harbor Country installing Rotary wheel signs near the township entrances.
An SLU request for an accessory dwelling unit at 8621 East Road was approved.
Board members approved Bunte
Parks Director Joe Martin said that Moby mats have been installed at Berrien Street and Miller beaches. Since Memorial Day, the township has generated $13,590 in daily fee revenue at Cherry Beach.
He introduced Peter Brown, who’s a new parks employee for the summer.
I don’t design clothes. I design dreams. — Ralph Lauren
Man burned in La Porte house fire
BY STAN MADDUX
ALa Porte man was last reported in critical condition after pulled from his burning home by firefighters on Thursday, June 18.
The fire caused significant damage to the small single-story structure at 1604 K St.
La Porte Fire Chief Andy Snyder said firefighters responding about 11 a.m. encountered heavy smoke and flames.
They were also told by neighbors the man still might be inside the house.
Water had just started being applied to the structure when firefighters went in and quickly located the victim, Roy Boness.
“We were able to get the individual out within minutes of our arrival,” Snyder said.
The man while treated by paramedics was taken by ambulance to nearby La Porte High School and loaded into a medical helicopter that landed in the parking lot.
Snyder said Boness was taken to Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago with significant burns and smoke inhalation.
“We will hope for the best for him,” he said.
Most of the fire damage appeared to be to a carport attached to the home where the fire possibly started.
Brenda Del Real, 21, said her parents had just stepped into the backyard to check on their chickens when they spotted what seemed to be a small, controlled fire in the carport, which was open on both ends.
It wasn’t long before they spotted smoke and told her to call 911.
Del Real said she was dialing the number when she heard what sounded like an explosion loud enough to be heard by all of her neighbors.
She went outside to see the flames at the house spreading quickly.
“We were all panicking,” said Griselta Montanez-Serrano, 30, who lives across the street in the neighborhood where the homes are close together.
Del Real said she was still outside when firefighters brought the man not moving out of the home.
“It looked like he had ash all over his face. My mom said his leg looked like it was pretty burnt,” she said.
Snyder said the cause of the fire remains investigation with help from the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.
BLUEBIRD SYMPOSIUM ON TAP FOR HARBERT COMMUNITY PARK
Join Deborah Hall-Kayler and Gail Chapman, president of the Michigan Bluebird Society and community member, to learn about Eastern Bluebirds and grow the bluebird population in Harbor Country at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, in the Sandburg Pavillion at Harbert Community Park at 13535 Red Arrow Highway.
Learn about the types of Bluebird
(BB) boxes, their differences and how far apart to place them, as well as what it means to be a BB monitor, how often to monitor the boxes during the season, the importance of recording results and the biggest threats to BBs.
Those who already have boxes in their yard can bring questions and concerns to the gathering. — STAFF REPORTS
Youth fair small animal registration deadline approaching
The deadline for registration of small animals to be exhibited at the 2026 Berrien County Youth Fair is July 1.
Small animals include rabbits, poultry, pocket pets, dogs, and cats.
One photo of cats and two photos of dogs (one front view and one side view of the dog) shown at the fair must be provided at registration with the name of the animal. In addition, dog photos must also be labeled with the exhibitor number, dog name, age, breed, sex and if altered or not, and cat photos must be labeled with the cat’s name and exhibitor number.
A limited number of exhibitor handbooks and entry forms are available at all Berrien County Public libraries, Baroda City Mills in Baroda; Country Heritage Credit Union in Buchanan; Tractor Supply and Family Farm and Home in Benton Harbor; Tractor Supply Company, Rural King and Mark Farm Supply in Niles; Seifert’s Farm Supply in Three Oaks and Tractor Supply Company in Stevensville. Exhibitor handbooks are also available online at www.bcyf.org. Exhibitor entry forms and handbooks are available at the Fair Office as well.
Registration is open to any Berrien County resident, ages 5 to 20 years of age. The exhibitor age is as of Jan. 1, 2026. Online registration has been updated to a new program this year that will look different but has the same general process. Exhibitors should create a username and password, which will be carried over from year to year.
Options for families or group entries are available. Once registered,
exhibitors can return to the program and add more entries up until each entry deadline, except for equine. The exhibitor’s printed confirmation will serve as the traditional yellow copy of the entry form and is required on entry day, just as the yellow copy of the traditional entry form is. The link for online entries can be found at www. bcyf.org.
Entry forms may be turned in any time up to the appropriate deadline date. Entry forms may be brought to the Fair office between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday on or before July 1, postmarked on or before July 1 or placed in the drop box outside the Fair office after hours until 6 p.m. July 1.
Other upcoming deadlines include the Berrien County Youth Fair King and Queen Contest, which is open to current BCYF exhibitors ages 16-19. The King and Queen contest deadline is July 15. The BCYF Prince & Princess contest registration (which is open to exhibitors ages 9-12) deadline is July 15. Applications can be picked up at the Fair office or online at www.bcyf. org. Registration for all still exhibit areas (crafts, flowers, horticulture, and home economics) is Aug. 1. Registration for still exhibits is open to Berrien County residents, ages 5 to 20 years of age. No late entries will be accepted. For questions, contact the Fair office at 269-473-4251. Berrien County Youth Fair dates are Aug. 17-22 with the theme “Happy Birthday America!” — STAFF REPORTS
SCHOLASTICS
School board receives athletic program update
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Increasing student-athlete participation continues to be a goal at New Buffalo, Athletic Director Matt Johnson said at the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education’s Monday, June 22, meeting.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, participation was 65%. The 20212022 academic year saw participation between boys and girls as “fairly even;” however, in the ensuing years, that number started to skew more toward boys than girls. Johnson said that efforts are being made to figure out ways to engage female athletes.
“Our goal is to get 70 percent participation across high school students - if we can get our girls back on track, we think we could hit that number,” he said.
The following sports will be merging with River Valley for the upcoming school year: boys’ basketball, winter cheer, boys’ soccer, boys/girls’ cross country and boys/girls’ tennis.
Johnson outlined the onboarding process for a coach, which involves Johnson meeting with them individually once they’ve been approved by the school board and throughout the year, and requires them to do CAP1 and 2 training. They also have pre-season sports meetings, which involve going over the handbook and how to interact with parents.
Highlights from this past year were
boys soccer being conference and district champions; football having an 8-1 record, which is the second best in the school’s history; girls basketball being conference champions for the second year in a row; boys basketball being district champions for the fourth time in the last eight years; girls track team being named conference champions and four girls qualifying for the Division 3 state meet. Projects from this past year included the baseball/softball field renovation and installing a new pole vault pit. Projects for the upcoming year are the Multiplex/ Track renovation and completing baseball/ softball field renovations.
To increase studentathlete participation next year, Johnson said he hopes to implement a middle/high school mentor program and work with Bison Afterschool Enrichment (BASE)/youth programs to better promote sports through the middle/high school.
winter sports, which had roughly 13 local businesses participating. Next year, businesses will be spotlighted during contests and there’ll be more exposure through social media and radio.
Board members amended the 2025-2026 Budget (General Fund, BISON Education Trust Fund, Food Service Fund, Activity Fund, Debt Retirement Funds, Public Improvement Fund, and Capitol Improvement Fund).
Johnson outlined the onboarding process for a coach, which involves Johnson meeting with them individually once they’ve been approved by the school board and throughout the year, and requires them to do CAP1 and 2 training. They also have pre-season sports meetings, which involve going over the handbook and how to interact with parents.
To increase local community/business participation in athletic/school Programs, the district started the Show Me The Stamp Initiative during
Business Director Pano Arvanitis said General Fund revenues were $22,198,938. Expenditures were $22,176,971, which is a difference of about $23,000 revenue expenses.
Excluding 2018, non-homestead taxable valuations have been on a steady incline over the last 10 years.
Board members approved the Bond Sale. Arvanitis said that district received an Aa1 credit rating, which is only one step below AAA, which “is the highest you can have.” He said there were eight bidders and the estimate was 3.4 percent, with the bids coming in at 3.04 percent.
Board approved the following proposals from Moss: an additional Triton Vape Sensors in the amount of $23,736.72; the additional wireless access points for indoor/outdoor coverage in the amount of $57,383.02 and the IP-Based Mass Notifications Platform for $496,518.48.
Arvanitis said that 12-14 more sensors will be purchased to add onto the eight that were already in the middle/high school and will be installed in the restrooms. Through a survey, Moss discovered that there are places where there isn’t Wi-Fi inside and outside the building. Regarding the notifications platform, Arvanitis said that the cost is an additional $135,000-$136,000 to the budget that the board previously approved.
The Middle/High School Locker Furnish and Install proposal for $139,200 was approved.
Board members approved the 20262027 Elementary Student, BASE, Middle School, High School and Athletic handbooks.
Board members approved granting tenure status to Middle School Teacher Leanne Lamport and Middle/High School Band Teacher Ayrielle Hoyt. Board members approved the updated High School Course Descriptions for 2026-2027.
From the Bleachers
From the Bleachers
COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO
COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO
While I understand that I am old school, writing this column, my love of sports, and my general curiosity have led me to try to understand the sport that worldwide, is the most popular sport of all.
Futbol, or as we call it in the United States, soccer, brings out the passion of fans in many countries unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed.
Personally, my knowledge of soccer is minuscule.
I know that the ultimate prize is the World Cup which takes place every four years. Sixty four countries are represented and compete against each other for the opportunity to compete in the knockout round, the round of 32, 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finally the third place match and and final which will take place on July 19th.
All together it takes over a month to play 104 matches to crown a champion.
The tension builds and the fans get even more crazy, until it eventually concludes and the preparations begin for the next World Cup.
Actually, the women’s matches, which seem to be at least as popular as the mens, take place in 2027 and the competition will resume.
When I was young, soccer was the furthest thing from my mind.
Nobody, absolutely nobody I knew talked about it or played it. As it’s popularity in the Chicago area began to grow, my friends and I talked a bit about the sport, but decided it was too boring, our country hadn’t even reached the knockout round since 1936, and besides we threw the ball, we didn’t kick it (except for punters
and field goal kickers).
So I didn’t care about soccer but by the time I was a grandpa some youngsters I knew were playing, so I watched and began to understand. Parents liked the sport because, unlike hockey, football, and to a lesser extent even baseball, a fortune wasn’t required to buy equipment, kids got great cardio workouts, and still learned to play as a team, developing social and leadership skills.
Dunes Arts Summer Theatre continues 75th season with ‘Frankie and Johnny in the Clair De Lune’
Dunes Arts Summer Theatre is continuing its 75th season with Terrence McNally’s acclaimed romantic drama “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune,” running through Sunday, July 12.
$35) and full season information are available at www.dunesarts.org.
I’m still not sold, but if the USA advances I’ll probably be watching.
Last week, I was reminded why I love baseball so much. The White Sox lost five of their last six but still are a wild card team at the moment. The Cubs won four of their last six and are only two games out in the wild card race.
A week ago, everyone, including myself, were praising the Sox and saying nothing negative about them at all. We were also condemning the Cubs as being losers without a shred of optimism.
Baseball has a long season and believe it or not, the half way point of the season won’t arrive until sometime this week. While praise was heaped on one team and derision on the other, the Cubs currently have a better record than the Sox.
Perception doesn’t always align with reality.
Henry David Thoreau said, “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”
Be kind. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.
P.S. Hope you dads had a great Father’s Day.
Man only likes to count his troubles, but he does not count his joys. — Fyodor Dostoevsky
Directed by Morgan McCabe with scenic design by Michael Lasswell, the production stars Kat Evans as Frankie and Mark Mendelsohn as Johnny, with Michael Nowak as the Voice of the Radio Announcer.
“First produced in 1987, the play’s themes still resonate deeply in today’s loud, divided culture,” said director Morgan McCabe. “Because we often connect only through devices, loneliness and a fear of emotional vulnerability are rising. This play strips everything down to two ordinary, working-class people in a small apartment, negotiating consent, autonomy and the fragile possibility of connection. Choosing hope and love is especially resonant in such uncertain times.”
“Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune” is presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of the Dramatists Play Service.
Performances of “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune” take place June 25 through July 12 at Dunes Summer Theatre, located at 288 Shady Oak Drive in Michiana Shores, Indiana. There will be no performance on Saturday, July 4, and an additional performance has been added Thursday, July 2, at 7 p.m. CT. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. CT (8 p.m. ET) and Sundays at 2 p.m. CT (3 p.m. ET), unless otherwise noted. Tickets ($15-
Kat Evans is an artistic associate at City Lit, and one can hear her voice in arcade games Fast & Furious and Godzilla VR, podcasts Starlight Radio Dreams and Our Fair City, and two animated shorts by Laura Lewis Barr. She has served on the writing team for Starlight Radio Dreams and Yippee, a streaming network for kids. Her audio plays have been produced by Whiskey Radio Hour and Theatrical Shenanigans. She’s also worked at Underhanded Film Productions, Black Button Eyes, Eclectic Full Contact, Promethean, The Hypocrites and The Savoyaires.
Mark Mendelsohn’s recent roles include “Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Clowns” (City Lit Theater, Chicago); “War of the Worlds” (Lifeline Theater, Chicago); “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Garden Theater, Houston); and “God of Carnage” (Stageworks Theater, Houston).
Michael Nowak performed in a reading of Tom Stoppard’s “Dogg’s Hamlet,” Cahoot’s “Macbeth” for The Dunes Arts Foundation in November 2025 as part of the American Theatre Organization’s nationwide arts protest for the Fall of Freedom. In his 30 years in Chicago theatre, he received Joseph Jefferson Awards for acting, directing and playwriting.
For more than 25 years, he hosted radio programs about gardening and the environment on WGN, WCPT and WCGO, as well as presenting live streams and podcasts.
— STAFF REPORTS
Children taken on Irish adventure during annual Bible school
BY FRANCESCA SAGALA
Several people are involved in bringing the Bible to life for area children during Converge Community Church’s free vacation Bible school.
“Many, many hands come together to make this week possible for us,” said Kelsey Zielke, one of the directors for this year’s camp, which took place June 15-19.
The theme for this year’s third annual camp was “Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23.”
“This year is very Irish so lots of green, lots of orange, lots of four-leaf clovers - lots of different things kids might see and then connecting that to the psalm of the week,” Zielke said.
Converge uses the “Answers in Genesis” curriculum, which comes up with a new theme every year. Campers have been going through the first portion of Psalm 23, so they learn an extra verse each day to memorize and practice together.
The morning camp was capped at 80 campers this year, which included students in grades pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.
Campers rotate between each station, which involve Bible story time, craft and snack time and outdoor game and song time and pertain to each day’s verse.
In the church’s sanctuary is the Creature Feature activity, where each group of campers will
be assigned a color associated with an animal each day and counselors will discuss how God gave each animal special features.
“They take home their crafts every day and a little activity page with their Bible verse for parent to look at and communicate with their kids about,” Zielke, whose children also attend the camp, said.
Cara Bettig, the other director, said she was pleased they’ve been able to accommodate more campers this year.
“The kids have a lot of fun and it’s a blessing to have the kids in the community come in for vacation Bible school and learn about Jesus,” Bettig, who’s been director for the last couple years, said.
In addition to the children, there are also around 76 volunteers, several of whom are middle and high school students.
The camp is a yearlong effort. In addition to the volunteers that come in the days leading up to camp to decorate, Zielke said a retired couple, who attend Converge’s Sawyer Campus, Sawyer Highlands, handle decorations. In addition, their grandchildren and son and daughter-in-law also volunteer.
“They come in and decorate all this space and make a lot of their decorations in their home and store it for the year,” Zielke said.
Campers make friends with a puppet during Bible storytime
Kella Koehler and Carrie Klint lead campers in Bible storytime
Counselors lead campers in an outdoor activity
Campers gather for a snack
Counselors help campers with a craft
From the Dish Pit...
A HIGHSCHOOLER’S TAKE ON REAL LIFE TOPICS
BY SYLVIE DARLING
In my previous article, I wrote that children love the summer because of the freedom that comes with it. Since then, I have realized that children aren’t the only ones who crave such freedom. President George W. Bush once said, “The desire for freedom resides in every human heart. And that desire cannot be contained forever by prison walls, or martial laws, or secret police. Over time, and across the Earth, freedom will find a way.” In other words, the desire for freedom is what makes us human. Freedom is our deepest longing, our strongest need, and in America – our greatest gift.
I was eleven years old when COVID first hit. And six years later, the memories are still etched in my mind. Faces hidden behind masks. Families holed up in houses. Friends held behind six-foot barriers. For the first time in my life, I can remember craving a sweet, primitive sort of freedom – to burst out of my sanitized prison, rip off my stuffy mask, and laugh with my friends once more. I hadn’t realized how privileged I was to experience these basic freedoms until they were taken away from me. But while I was waiting for the return of my daily choices, a girl on the other side of the world was waiting for the arrival of her real freedom, perhaps from poverty or abuse or forced labor.
Modern-day Americans often take this gift of freedom for granted. We argue about politics and policies as if our country isn’t truly free yet. As if the right power plays will somehow get us there. But along the way, we disrespect this sacred gift of liberty, which was won countless years ago and continues to be fought for today. Deep into 2020, my eleven-year-old self became aware of this paradox and decided to write a
poem about it. So, in honor of the 250th anniversary of freedom, here is the story of America. Where we came from. Where we’re headed. And most importantly – what we fought for along the way.
Who We Are America
We have walked Cracked bare feet across hot white sand
We have fought
The salt-choked sea to be free and then
We have crushed
Rich black dirt
Into chains like the one we have loved
So we hurt
We have cowered
For just a moment as we rose
Those in power
Smashed the stars, who we are
Lost in ghettos
We have starved
Breathed rock-hard ribs
Empty table, lonely heart
All to this
A list, of rights on paper
Do they say who we become?
America – we shape her Truth’s rendezvous is the sun
Everyone
Hidden behind linen, behind fabric, behind hopes
Hidden behind what we think and who we are to know.
Now, we stand
We stand and wonder
Narcissists, theorists, a homeless man
Clutching those dream hands and under
The same, false-honored flag Liberty.
A Writer’s Life... DURING
THE GOLDEN AGE OF TELEVISION ANIMATION
BY JACK OLESKER
My second mistake…
I was heading from the conference room when Robby said he wanted to see me. A couple seconds later I walked into his office, one of my Lady Lovely Locks scripts on his desk. An earnest look on his face, he pointed to the first line in my script with, “You wrote ‘LONG SHOT’.” Then he proclaimed, “We don’t do ‘long shots’ here.”
I asked if he knew what a long shot was. Irritated, he answered, “It’s when you hold on a scene for a long time.” He repeated, “We don’t do that here.”
Citing the textbook definition of a ‘long shot’ in television, I said, “Actually, a ‘long shot’ is a view of a scene shot from a considerable distance, so people appear as indistinct shapes. What you’re talking about is ‘the camera holding on a shot for a ‘long time.” I couldn’t resist adding, “And, no, we don’t do that here.”
He quietly looked back and forth from my script to me. I hadn’t wanted to embarrass Robby beyond what he had already done to himself. But it was hard to restrain myself because of the confrontational way he had opened the conversation.
Trying to distance himself from being corrected, he shifted gears and said, “You’re writing a lot of Lady Lovely Locks scripts and getting paid for them. When I was at Filmation, writing scripts was a part of the job and we didn’t get paid for it.”
I said, “Well, that was Jean and Andy’s idea so they’re the ones you should speak with about it. Is there anything else?” Twisting the knife was not my best move.
In all the time after that, I’d only see Robby as we occasionally passed in the main corridor, his eyes averted; never in
the Writer’s Wing.
As time passed, I began to feel it was a thoughtful gesture for Andy to have given me the title of Senior Story Editor after Robby came on as DIC’s VP, Creative Affairs. Little did I know I was about to get a new title added to that.
After I’d written five scripts for Lady Lovely Locks and the Pixietails, I put the word out I was open to springboards submissions. Howard Cohen’s were perfect, surprising me since he’d previously written the likes of Barbarian Queen, Vampire Hookers and The Young Nurses for Hollywood B-films king Roger Corman. It proved he was a pro who could seamlessly shift gears between genres. I was also surprised when Jeff Rose delivered a fine springboard. I was happy to assign him a script.
Then one day, with the series in great shape, one of my potential writers –who shall remain nameless – stormed into my office unannounced and uninvited. She was an established writer and a Humanitas Prize-winner. For the record, it was not Eleanor Burian-Mohr, one of my favorite writers.
Sadly, I had to pass on a single story springboard she had submitted. Voice trembling, she wailed, “Why did you kill my springboard?!” As gently as I could, I explained it was too far off from series’ concept to be salvageable. I suggested she try writing more springboards, but she was livid, unable to hear anything I was saying.
Exhausted and near tears, she shouted, “You’re the meanest man in Hollywood!” after which she stormed from my office. Twenty minutes later, Andy walked into my office smiling, and playfully chided, “I hear you’re the meanest man in Hollywood…”
Shortly after Andy left, Mert arrived with truly stunning news.
ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19
HOROSCOPE
JUNE 25-JULY 1, 2026
AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT
There is a very strong energy flowing through your sign this week. It’s happening. The motivation and the willpower to create and follow your heart is coming your way. The real blessing is the opportunity to harness this energy in the security of your own space, surrounded by the things you love.
TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20
This is a great week to enjoy your space and be at home. Take time to get more in tune with your own thoughts and vibrations. Clear out old energy from past relationships and get the new higher vibes flowing. Be more assertive when it comes to your mental well being and release negativity.
GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21
The energy coming your way this week is all about being with friends and surrounding yourself with community. Some of your connections may not be conventional but when your together and united working on a goal, a lot will be accomplished. Give your best now.
CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22
It is hammer down time. Don’t let up on making money and creating a future for yourself. The energy and vibe coming from the stars this week is all about doing the hard work and completing projects. The lucky breaks will come and the right people will be on scene when you need them. So, keep going.
LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22
There is so much energy and enlightenment coming your way this week. Let this flow of energy open you up to bigger and better things. There is a lot of old energy that can be cleared and reinvented into something more lucrative and influential. So don’t hesitate when better opportunities present themselves.
VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22
Downtime and reconnecting with your inner world is important this week. This is your opportunity to get more perspective on your goals and more motivation for doing the things you do. Make those tough adjustments now and you will have an easier time when the situations get complex next week.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22
The energy coming your way this week will put you in a space with a larger audience. This is the time to be noticed and make great first impressions. There may be some old or long standing connections that fade out now as new opportunities will prove to be more profitable and prestigious.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21
This is the week to sort out what you need to really focus on. There is a lot of chaotic energy that will be silenced now and this will be your opportunity to hone in on your own talents and resources. Let partnerships be the stepping stones to your future not the destination. Keep moving forward.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER22—DECEMBER21
Situations will be pushing you to make a stand for what is right for you. Your path must ultimately be decided by you. Sure you have obligations but that doesn’t mean that the obligations are in control or making the decisions for you. Trust in yourself and make decisions that are in line with your spirit.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER22—JANUARY19
The flow of energy coming your way this week will push you into some deeper connections with family. Your relationships will be undergoing some interesting changes now and what you thought wasn’t such a big deal may prove to be very important and consequential now; a revelation of sorts.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18
The energy this week is all about opening up communication with partners and establishing a better plan or budget. There is a lot that you can make happen now with your livelihood but if you are alienating the people you work with, you will be doing it alone when, you don’t need to; ask for help.
PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20
The energy is full on for enhancing your physical well being this week. Take full advantage by releasing the heaviness in your heart chakra through stretching, letting go of old arguments through deep breath work and doing some plain old weight training exercises to literally get things off your chest.
Keeping dogs off courthouse lawn debated
Groundbreaking in La Porte for Microsoft data center
BY STAN MADDUX
There could be an effort to keep dogs off the courthouse lawn in downtown La Porte.
La Porte County
Commissioner Steve Holifield raised the issue during the commissioners’ meeting on Wednesday, June 17.
THe mentioned a woman living nearby who allows her dog to answer nature’s call in the grass outside the courthouse on a regular basis, but she doesn’t always clean-up after her pet.
“She can walk downtown somewhere and find a place for her dog to dump since she lives in the city,” he said.
Initially, he expressed a desire to enforce an ordinance that’s been in the books for decades prohibiting dogs from being on the courthouse lawn.
La Porte County
Commissioners Attorney Guy DiMartino said he wasn’t sure
if dogs can be prohibited from being on the grass and felt it might be best to require pet owners to pick-up after their animals.
“I can see you saying you have to pick up your waste, but I don’t think you can stop the act,” he said.
Commissioner Joe Haney said he wasn’t sure if a crackdown should apply to all pet owners since the courthouse lawn might be the only place available for a dog in a hurry to relieve itself.
“The dog’s got to go. Things happen, right? I don’t know exactly where to go with this,” he said.
Regardless, DiMartino said he would look at the existing ordinance before drafting another ordinance for the commissioners to possibly consider at some point. — STAN MADDUX
The City of La Porte is preparing for a major long-term influx of construction workers that will start building a Microsoft data center next month.
A groundbreaking on the over $1 billion investment was held Wednesday at the 500acre site on Boyd Boulevard where grading of what’s been farmland has been occurring for several weeks to prepare for the upcoming construction.
Bo Wallace, a Microsoft corporate vicepresident, said the goal is begin operating out of three buildings in 2029 followed by three additional structures on the site “as fast as we can build them.”
Wallace said it’s going to take over 600 fulltime employees to operate and maintain all six of the facilities.
Plans call for another 11 data center structures to start going up later on 1,300 acres of farmland Microsoft is purchasing adjacent to the site.
It’s going to take up to 10-years to complete the construction at both locations.
Eventually, Wallace said more than 2,000 construction workers will be at the site daily once the job fully ramps up.
La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership Executive Director Bert Cook said building construction will begin in less than 30 days.
He said local hotels, restaurants, grocery stores and gas stations are among the businesses given notice already about the upcoming work so they can prepare for the potential of more customers.
“We want to be prepared as we possibly can be for that,” he said.
Microsoft decided earlier this year not to seek tax abatement on any of its data center projects nationwide.
For La Porte, the full payout on the first completed site will mean tens of millions of dollars annually for the city and several million dollars a year for the school corporation under a 20-year agreement with Microsoft.
The city, school corporation and county government will receive property tax dollars from the other site under a separate agreement.
The exact amounts will not be known until
the properties as they’re being developed have their current values reassessed for tax billing purposes.
Mayor Tom Dermody said the amount of new tax dollars locally from the project is unprecedented.
“Microsoft’s historic investment in La Porte surpasses all private investment ever made in our city’s history, combined,” he said.
Brad Smith, Vice-Chair and President of Microsoft, said the company and school corporation will partner on offering classes at the high school that prepare students for the high-tech jobs offered at the data center complex for years to come.
Smith said the jobs are well-paying and give students looking elsewhere for opportunity a reason to stay.
“That, in some ways, may be the longestlasting and most important thing we do here. If so, we’ll be proud to be a part of it,” he said.
The city is also collecting another $17 million from Microsoft because over 100 acres of municipally owned land is part of the 1,300 acres the tech giant is purchasing.
The city used the land for spreading manure from its nearby wastewater treatment plant and to contract with a farmer to grow crops.
Dermody and many other leaders in the community believe the data center complex will transform the city, which has been pushing aggressively for new growth and seeing positive results in areas like new housing over the past several years.
He called the groundbreaking one of those moments that define the future of a community.
“This is a day when generations of La Porte residents will look back and remember a day when a global leader chose to invest in our city, our people and our future,” Dermody said.
La Porte Schools Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood said the money from Microsoft will mean financial stability again for the corporation which has been dealing with revenue losses from gradual enrollment declines over roughly the past decade.
THURSDAYS | SILO MARKET + SOCIAL | THREE OAKS, MI
STROLL, SIP, SHOP + SWING out back at Journeyman Distillery from 4-8p ET.
WEEKLY | LIVE MUSIC | THREE OAKS, MI
From 6-8p ET, live music heads to Journeyman Distillery for select dates this summer.
WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS | SUMMER MUSIC LIVE | VALPARAISO, IN
Live music and good company come together under the open sky starting at 6:30p CT.
JUNE 19 | WINSTON A. FOX RELEASE DINNER WITH ST ELMO | VALPARAISO, IN
JUNE 21 | FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH | THREE OAKS, MI & VALPARAISO, IN
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the hometown release of Winston A. Fox, a bold new rye whiskey inspired by the legendary fox mascot of St. Elmo Steak House.
Treat Dad to craft cocktails and a family brunch, starting at 10a (Local Time).
Tee up for a laid-back night of putting, pours, and laughs as we bring the green to life before a special screening of Caddyshack.
JUNE 28 | GREENS & SCREENS: CADDYSHACK, WITH VICKERS THEATER | THREE OAKS, MI
MONTHLY STARTING JUNE 28 | JAZZ SESSIONS | VALPARAISO, IN
A new intimate live music series celebrating some of the finest jazz artists from Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland.
JULY 11 | AMERICON | VALPARAISO, IN
CELEBRATE THE AMERICAN SPIRIT! A full day of homegrown fun bringing the neighborhood together in celebration of U.S. culture and our Midwest roots. Featuring Small Town—A John Mellencamp Experience, at 6:30p CT.
SCAN FOR ALL UPCOMING EVENTS JOURNEYMAN.COM/EVENTS
PUBLIC NOTICES
VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH ELECTION NOTICE
There are three spots open for re-election on the Village Council. These are each 4-year terms.
Every person desiring to become a candidate for Village Council for the Village of Grand Beach shall personally or by duly authorized agent, file with the New Buffalo Township Clerk a petition therefore signed by not less than 10, nor more than 25 registered electors of the Village. Said petition shall be filed with the Township Clerk by July 21, 2026.
You may reach the Township Clerk, Michelle Hannon, at 269-469-1011 or mhannon@newbuffalotownship. org
KIMBERLY WOLNIK CLERK-TREASURER VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH
New Buffalo Area Schools is seeking candidates for the upcoming Board of Education election. Community members interested in serving and supporting the continued success of our students, staff, and district are encouraged to apply. Deadline for application is Tuesday, July 21, 2026 – 4:00 p.m. with the Berrien County Clerk/Election Coordinator.
Positions available on the Board of Education will be filled through the upcoming election cycle in accordance with Michigan election guidelines. The New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education will have two vacant seats on the November 2026 ballot. The successful candidates will each serve a sixyear term beginning January 1, 2027, and ending December 31, 2032.
For questions regarding the Board of Education election process, please contact the New Buffalo Area Schools Central Office.
To Your Health
COLUMN BY KAREN EDWARDS ND RESURGENCE OF THE VICTORY GARDENS
People are starting to get back to food security just as they did back in the days of the Victory Gardens. This ideaoriginated during World War I and II as a way for citizens to eat fresh food when supply was low or rationed. It also boosted morale when the economy was not looking so good. Neighbors came together transforming backyards, vacant lots, and even rooftops into highly productive vegetable plots.
Today, facing economic and supply chain unpredictability, with a desire for healthier living, bringing back the Victory Garden makes perfect sense.
Even if you work a demanding full-time work scheduleyou can successfully grow a lowmaintenance modern victory garden. Bringing these gardens back into the modern world is an incredible way to connect with natureand enjoy fresh, nutrientdense produce right from your backyard, your porch or even your windowsill.
Back then, victory gardens were about survival and a supplement to strict rations. Today, a modern victory garden is about sustainability, self-reliance, and wellness.For me, there is just no comparison to home grown food versus commercial food that has been picked unripe and gassed to artificially ripen. When not allowed to ripen naturally, produce loses its cancer healing properties.When you pick a fruit or vegetable fully ripened by the sun and natures gifts, it is filled with life, vitamin C and the properties that destroy cancer cells and other ills. (Let food be your medicine)
Also, our food can travel up to 3000 miles, or even be transported over a border from another country.
The biggest obstacle for fulltime workers is time. Traditional gardening can feel like a second job, but smart planning allows you to reap the benefits in just a little time every day. Consider container gardening or small raised beds that do not require tilling or constant soil amending.Containers are ideal for balconies, patios, and small yards. Earth Boxes are large fabric pots that hold moisture well, reducing watering frequency.
Cover your soil with a 2-to-3-inch layer of straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips. Mulch acts as a blanket, trapping moisture and suffocating weed seeds so you don’t spend time weeding.
Growing greens is simple and a great crop for super nutrition. You can grab leaves for your smoothies, add to a salad, or sauté with your meals.
Patio herbs are a great way to have constant summer food that heals. These grow so easy and are basically maintenance free. A little water now and then is all they need.
The more you harvest, the more they grow. A bush bean and a zucchini plant will feed you for months.
In the morning, grab your tea or coffee, walk past your garden giving it a once over. Cut off old brown leaves, and bring the fresh ripened fruit in. You will be breathing in fresh air, enjoying nature and giving your food the love to continually produce more.
Even if you grow a tiny patio tomato, it can give you satisfaction. Encourage your community to revive the victory garden.
PET OF THE WEEK
BANJO
This Banjo wants to play with you, your older kids, your dogs, but doesn’t play well with cats. He’s about a year old, neutered, and weighs almost 70 pounds. Banjo is a social butterfly that just wants to meet everyone. He knows to sit handsomely, especially with treats. He is eager to learn more, as he’s getting better with basic commands and walking on a leash. This guy has energy, but knows when to chill. Make Banjo part of your home today.
Buchanan Pride 2026 –Together we are strong!
The Buchanan Pride Committee proudly announces the programming and theme for Buchanan Pride 2026 on Sunday, June 28th, 2026, from 1:00 – 8:00 p.m. Our 2026 Buchanan Pride theme is “Together We Are Strong,” as now, more than ever, we need to focus on unity in our community to protect ourselves in a time of rapid legal and policy changes meant to undermine the civil rights of our community members.
Over our 4-year history, Buchanan Pride has become a staple Pride event in the Michiana area, and we invite you to come experience the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at this event. We have an exciting Vendor Market planned and an entertainment lineup that is sure to please, from recurring favorites to some local gems!
Our Pride vendor market opens at 1 pm and is presented by Zen Leaf; featuring everything from locally crafted goods to vintage clothing to all kinds of Pride items. We will have food vendors serving up sweet and savory treats, and we’ll have info at the Pride Booth on local restaurants open during Buchanan Pride. We currently have over 30 vendors registered. If you want to be a vendor at Buchanan Pride 2026, please visit www. buchananpride.com and click on the Vendor rainbow link on the right-hand side.
Our Pride entertainment line-up is presented by Cannavista Wellness and will keep your groove going all day long. Ultrafab returns as our headliner, and the program also includes highlights from last
year’s Buchanan’s Got Talent contest and auditions for this year’s contest, set for August 14th. Register to audition at Pride for Buchanan’s Got Talent at https://www.facebook. com/culturalartseverywhere . We will also feature a popular young local musician, Hank Nelson, affectionately known as the Singin’ Gritter. The event concludes with a dance party on the Common featuring DJ Chuck Fry. The full entertainment line-up:
We are very pleased to report that Buchanan’s new downtown streetscape is complete and looks beautiful. No construction this year, so no issues accessing the beautiful Buchanan Common at 122 Days Avenue in Buchanan. Get out your pride finery and dancing shoes for a party that will bring joy and good vibes to your summer!
To keep updated on all things Buchanan Pride, make sure to visit www. buchananpride. com website, www.facebook. com/BuchananPride and www. instagram.com/buchanan_ pride/. Buchanan Pride is sponsored by Cannavista Wellness, Zen Leaf, Lifted Micro-Growery, Mint Cannabis, Cultural Arts Everywhere, High Profile, Honor Credit Union, McCollum’s, On Base Productions, and B&W’s Pour Decisions. The Buchanan Area Senior Center’s Buchanan Pride Committee produces the event. — STAFF REPORTS
thankyou!
On behalf of our board and staff, we would like to thank our generous sponsors, donors, volunteers, and all who attended Neighbor by Neighbor’s Founders’ Day Brunch.
founders’BRUNCHday
WE ARE SO GRATEFUL TO YOU ALL FOR JOINING US AT OUR
It was a beautiful day in so many ways, including raising a record amount of funding to serve our neighbors.
At the same time, the need in our community continues to grow.
In 2026, we have seen a two-fold increase in the number of clients we serve, and traffic at our food pantry has doubled compared to last year.
The funds raised through this event enable us to meet these challenges head-on. Everything we accomplish is possible because of our community and people like you who choose to care, to give, and to act.
Receiving no funding from state or federal government sources, our work truly is neighbors helping neighbors.
Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate community where no neighbor has to face hardship alone.
