March 24, 2022

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LIFE IN NATURE ON THE SANDY SHORE

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 12, volume 81

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Thursday, March 24, 2022

Grand Beach Village Council continues millage increase discussion PAGE 3 New Buffalo Township Board accepts bid for Townline Avenue parcel PAGE 4

Chikaming Township ZBA rejects variance for Union Green PAGE 5 New Buffalo City Council approves new location for farmers’ market PAGE 6

New Buffalo students present ‘Matilda Jr.’ PAGE 10

LA LUMIERE STAR J.J. STARLING McDONALD’S ALL-AMERICAN RECEIVES CEREMONIAL JERSEY — PAGE 8 —

PHOTO BY STAN MADDUX

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New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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Grand Beach Village Council continues millage increase discussion

he ongoing discussion of a possible millage increase in the village resumed, with the matter being tabled, at the Wednesday, March 16, meeting of the Grand Beach Village Council.

Council president Deborah Lindley said that she wanted to get a list out to public with the main “needs” that the village can’t afford to do in its budget. She said that, if the village does a millage increase, they can go out for bond and get big projects done.

Lindley said she’d like to do a 1 mil ltax increase to go to the operating fund for the next 10 years. If the village raises its taxes 1 mill, it would generate $139,000 for one year and $1,390,000 for 10 years.

Member Pete Doerr said he felt that doing a millage increase could be “putting a band aid on things that need to be done.”

“It seems like we do great job saving for things and planning for things but it’s things that are already there…I want to have a plan set up that benefits my grandkids, not just getting these things done today,” he said.

Doerr added that a master plan will help them “really understand what we need and want long-term.”

Lindley said that they were on a time frame if they wanted to do a millage, adding that they must have all the language into their lawyer by May. “If we want to do more studies and not go for a millage, then it’s going to be another two years before you can really do it, unless you want to pay for a special election,” she said.

James Bracewell said a millage request is a “presentation to the registered voters,” adding that, over the last three to four years, they’ve been “ignoring registered voters and listening to people who literally don’t own property here and literally don’t pay taxes here.”

Councilmember Blake O’Halloran said

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

that it’s about the “vision” for the village as a whole and how they see it in 10 years – which he believes is more “master planning.”

He added that all the items on the needs list could be “pushed back a couple years if need be.”

“Then we could get our ducks in a row and present a master plan to people and then sell our master plan...What’s two years compared to 30 something years that we haven’t done some of these things,” he said.

The village last did a master plan in 2009.

Lindley said that she’ll just table the matter of a millage, which was met with no comments from the other members.

With regards to a master plan, Lindley suggested exploring having a communitywide meeting this summer, where residents will meet in small groups and make a chart with “what our true needs and wants are” within the village.

Brian Hake from Kruggel Lawton gave an audit presentation on the 2020-2021 fiscal year budget, which ended Oct. 31, 2021.

Hake said that last year’s months of unassigned fund balance was 16.2, which was up from 14.9 last year, in the General Fund.

There was an increase in the General Fund of $125,000. Overall, the governmental funds increased about $123,000.

With regards to the proprietary funds, Hake said the water fund increased about $87,000 and the golf fund increased about $86,000. He added that the goal was to ensure those funds can be self-sustaining.”

Councilmembers approved the language in the Ely-Wildwood Water Line agreements specified by legal counsel Sara Senica and to request the process for an EGLE permit to begin from Merritt Engineering.

Lindley said that there are three different

parcels so there are three separate easement agreements with the same language in all three with the exception of the legal descriptions.

A motion to accept a proposal from Schultz Dry Wall and Interior to paint the six doors in the pro shop as well as the counters was approved (O’Halloran said it should be completed by April 1).

Councilmembers approved not to exceed $7,500 for the lumber that’s required to extend the wall for the golf cart charging stations to allow for the village’s 20 leased carts. O’Halloran said the funds will come from reappropriating $8,500 from whatever’s left over from the brick program as well as funds from golf carts that won’t be purchased.

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ouncilmembers approved going with Harbor Electric for $11,638 to install a 100-amp service out to the golf carts, with money coming from the equipment

budget.

Councilmembers approved incurring the cost of up to $1,888 for a one -year policy with regards to a cyber security insurance plan to be determined by clerk Mary Robertson after talking with Brendan Duffner (who has knowledge about the matter), who said that there are other options “on the table” that aren’t as costly.

A motion to pay contributions of $3,152 into deputy clerk Katharine Butler’s HAS account was approved.

Councilmembers approved renewing the village’s property liability and auto insurance through the Michigan Municipal League with a raise of 2.5% over last year’s cost.

Councilmembers approved changing the village’s mileage reimbursement rate to the rates suggested by the IRS.

Tis a great confidence in a friend to tell him your faults; greater to tell him his. — Benjamin Franklin

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO JOHN HUMPHREY, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL LOU O’DONNELL, IV. MARK ROBERTSON, JOHN HUMPHREY, ROGER LIJESKI, BRIAN FLANAGAN City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS to be determined NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD PETE RAHM, MICHELLE HEIT, JUDY H. ZABICKI, PATTY IAZZETTO, JACK ROGERS Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD CHUCK HEIT, PRESIDENT HEATHER BLACK, VICE PRESIDENT JOHN HASKINS, TREASURER LISA WERNER, SECRETARY JOYCE LANTZ, TRUSTEE FRANK MARGRO, TRUSTEE PATRICIA NEWSTON, TRUSTEE CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, BILL MARSKE Chikaming Board meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7PM MARY ROBERTSON, CLERK DEBORAH LINDLEY, BLAKE O’HALLORAN, JAMES BRACEWELL, PETER DOERR, PAUL LEONARD, JR. MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

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New Buffalo Township Board accepts bid for Townline Avenue parcel

embers of the New Buffalo Township Board approved accepting the highest bid for property at 10270 Townline Avenue in Union Pier at their Monday, March 21, meeting.

In September 2020, board members approved the purchase of the property from the Berrien County treasurer for a delinquent tax amount of $4,851.

Last month, an original motion called for the township to accept the highest bid for the parcel in the amount of $30,000 from Chad and Heather Gradowski; however, this motion was withdrawn. The township had received three other bids for it, one of which was from John and Susan Mackanin in the amount of $17,411.91, the third highest bid.

Board members had tabled the matter because it was unclear from their attorney and the county’s attorney if any funds in excess of the minimum bid on the property need to be returned to the county.

New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said board members “did their due diligence” and took the time to consider the issue.

Clerk Judy Zabicki said that “wherever the money goes to, I feel that us, as a stewards of the township, and of the financial being of the township, we have to look at everything, including what it is, what it can be, where it was.”

With regards to greenspace, she said she feels the township is “being good stewards of green space” in the township, mentioning Glassman Road Park, the township hall park, Galien River County Park, and a park that may be put in on 12 acres by the new public safety building.

“What the property can be, what it can

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

contribute to our park millage, our special assessment district, our operating millage, the county’s 911 – all that stuff we have to consider, too,” she said.

Mackanin, who’s been trying to acquire the property for the last 11 or 12 years, said the county unofficially shows its frontage at 41 feet on Townline. His intent would be to keep it “as is,” adding that if somebody were to build a structure on it, it would have to be “a very tiny, narrow and tall structure,” which wouldn’t be “in keeping with the rest of the neighborhood.”

“The topography is very challenging,” he said.

He noted the “solid support” he’d received from neighbors and the board of directors of the Homeowners’ association on his plans for the property.

Chad Gradowski said he and his wife, Heather, who currently live in Sawyer, were hoping to “downsize” and use the property to build a smaller house while still being in the area.

“What I think will benefit the township for the future is having a house on that property…We’ll have revenue for the township with taxes from the property,” he said.

Gradowski added that a newer house a couple doors down from the property is on a 45-foot lot that “fits in for the area.”

A bond payment in the amount of $14,943.75 with the Harbor Country Drive/ and US12/Behner Road water and sewer system was approved.

Board members approved sending Captain Mandalis to FDIC training in Indianapolis April 25-30. Cost of the ticket is $630, plus travel expenses and meals.

The purchase of a new Kyocera copier/

printer for the water/fire department at Station One for $1,995 to be split between the water/sewer, fire and marina budgets was approved.

A resolution proclaiming March 29 as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” in New Buffalo Township, which was provided by the Rebecca Dewey chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, was adopted.

Board members approved hiring deputy clerk Victoria Graham for the following positions: assistant clerk at a rate of $19 per hour and Planning Commission recording secretary for $50 per meeting.

Board members approved the three-year Shedd Road maintenance estimate with the Berrien County Road Department in the following amounts: for 2022, $53,889.95; 2023, $99,109; and 2024, $43,420.

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oard members approved $2,200 for the appraisal review to Tudor and Associates as required by Amtrak for the township’s zoning appraisal and for Marquette Greenway. Heit said this was a required review of the appraisal that was needed.

Board members approved hiring Kaitlynn Poff as a seasonal employee for cleaning and maintenance of the Union Pier trailhead restrooms at a rate of $100 per week.

The hiring of Spring Green for weed control for Township Hall and park for $1,662.65 and Advance Property Management Services for weed control at Station One for $792 was approved.

Board members approved appointing Julie Flick to the Board of Review and Steve Evans to the Construction Board of Appeals.

Unfortunately it is the weak who destroy the strong. — John le Carre

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

Chikaming Township ZBA rejects variance for Union Green

n a 5-0 vote, members of the Chikaming Township Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) rejected a request for a variance regarding the Union Green project Tuesday, March 15.

At their Feb. 9 meeting, members of the Chikaming Township Planning Commission approved 4-1 an amended Union Green site plan with conditions that included getting a variance.

The amended plan for the project, which has a planned location at the corner of Red Arrow Highway and Goodwin Avenue, includes 18 independent dwelling units and one commercial space.

An original site plan was approved by the Planning Commission in July 2021 under the old zoning ordinance.

At the February meeting, Kelly Largent, zoning administrator, said that the project is no longer a special land use (SLU) anymore but is now a permitted use due to it being in the Union Pier Corridor (UPC) portion of the new C-U Union Pier Mixed Use District and Overlay District, which was part of the new ordinance adopted last November.

Applicant Suzanne Schultz of Progressive AE, who was representing developer Brad Rottschafer, was seeking an interpretation of the amended ordinance as it relates to ground floor commercial use in the Union Pier Corridor overlay district and, if needed, a variance that would allow 76% residential use on the first floor along Red Arrow and 100% residential use on the first floor along Goodwin Road.

In her analysis, Largent said that 100% of the frontage for the corner live/work building on Goodwin is commercial, while the other two units that front Goodwin are

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The Boreal Forest

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

residential.

Schultz cited confusion over firstfloor requirements in the Regulated Use Table, where it states that “multi-family development is a permitted use” but that there’s “no distinction about commercial being required on the ground floor.”

Chair Larry Anderson read from the Union Pier Site Standards table in the zoning ordinance, which is Section 5.01h(3) (e), regarding the Union Pier Corridor: “Residential may be allowed in the rear 50% of the floor, however; the front 50% must be for commercial use.”

The ordinance goes on to state the following: “Commercial first floor shall extend for the entire width of the front of the building as viewed from the adjoining public street.”

“To me, that’s pretty clear – I don’t see any way to interpret that differently,” he said.

Tom Gold said that it’s the Site Standards table that states the “overall intention.”

“If there’s confusion that needs to be cleared up in the ordinance, it’s on the Regulated Use Table, not on what’s intended,” he said, adding that “it’s clear what regulates are the Site Standards over the use table.”

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embers approved a motion stating that they “disapprove the requested interpretation.”

Per Section 17.04 (b) (4) under “Variances” in the ordinance, the ZBA “is not authorized to grant use variances by this Ordinance.

The ordinance further states that a “use variance authorizes the establishment of a use of land that is otherwise prohibited in a zoning district.”

“We have a variance on the table that we are not allowed to

hear because it changes the use…

The applicant has said we’re constrained to look at this and say, ‘These sections are to be commercial,’ but they don’t want them to be a commercial use, they want them to be a residential use,” Anderson said.

The bulk of the beginning of the meeting involved letters against the project due to several issues, such as density.

Stanley Wilke said that members of the ZBA and the Planning Commission need to have conversations about “this subject of diverse interpretation of the current code.”

“I recommend until those conversations take place, and you resolve the issue going forward, no judgement should be done on this application,” he said.

Dan Coffey said the “process started with the zoning ordinance before Nov. 4 and much of that carried over to the permission despite the fact that your attorney and professional people said that Nov. 4 is controlling.”

He called the variance a “selfimposed hardship problem.”

“They planned to violate the ordinance, so you can’t give a variance – it’s a self-imposed hardship,” he said.

Jim Harper, who lives in nearby Pier Nine, called the project “far too dense for this area in comparison to other multi-unit developments adjacent to Union Green.”

Sue Koeningberg said it’s the ZBA’s job to “follow the ordinances.”

“Once the zoning was adopted and amended, Union Green has to follow the new zoning, in density and in everything,” she said.

OPINIONS

GLOBAL OPINIONS Our character travels with us everywhere.

OPINION BY DINO N. FATOUROS

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n life’s success and loss, it appears less depends on what seems to have happend than upon our opinion of the situation?

How I judge the “circumstance” is based on my opinion of what I like and dislike and is the only significant factor in how I feel.

All else is mostly short lived, necessary, out of my control and can be constrained or removed from attention through Right Reasoning based on what’s truly valuable in accordance with Nature?

Beware your opinion, our character travels with us everywhere.

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

New Buffalo City Council approves new location for farmers’ market

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he agenda item that seemed to draw most attendees to the New Buffalo City Council meeting, Monday, March 21, was swiftly ok’d.

After a very brief discussion, the council voted to approve a recommendation to move the New Buffalo Business Association’s (NBBA) Thursday night farmers market to the parking lot at the corner of Buffalo and Whittaker streets.

The market was previously hosted along Whittaker Street between Merchant and Mechanic, but has been moved due to concerns over safety, the work required to clear the street weekly and its impact on local merchants.

Organizers reported 40 vendors have already signed up and more are expected.

The annual Harvest and Wine Festival will also be held in the lot.

The council voted 4-0 to approve the relocation, though councilman Brian Flanagan expressed concern that it may cause parking issues.

New Buffalo Fire Chief Chris Houston presented a plaque to volunteer firefighter Mike Iazetto in recognition of his years of service to the department.

Neighbor by Neighbor Executive Director Peg Kohring spoke to the council about the forms of assistance the organization provides for Harbor Country residents. She said among the biggest challenges is housing, explaining much of the local workforce cannot afford to live locally as short-term rentals drive up rents. She went on to say many workers cannot afford reliable transportation, so cannot live elsewhere while working in New Buffalo.

BY THERESE DONNELLY

Humphrey thanked Kohring for highlighting issues he said many do not believe exist in the city.

Before addressing the council to express his thanks for the decision to move the farmers market, Gary Wood, who sits on the NBBA Board of Directors, praised the work Neighbor by Neighbor does and noted his wife, Leslie, serves on the board and the stories he hears about people in need are “disheartening.”

During the public comments portion of the meeting, resident Carie O’Donnell accused Mayor John Humphrey of being “unfit to serve the city in any capacity” and carrying out a vendetta against tourists and short-term renters. Humphrey reminded O’Donnell she was out of order by addressing a council member, but she continued to speak over him until she was escorted from the meeting room by city police officers.

In a handout O’Donnell alleged derogatory text and email messages from Humphrey to different parties criticizing opponents to the short-term rental ordinance.

Boating season will begin soon, and Glen Logan of The Moorings Association asked the council what plans were for dredging the channel. Humphrey addressed Logan’s questions during the council comments, explaining the city plans to dredge but it may not happen until July. City Manager Darwin Watson explained the city had applied for dredging permits in the fall but was still waiting for approval from the state.

Dan Leung, who ran the beach concession last year as Licks Sweet Treats and Eats, addressed the council asking why his bid for this year’s contract was

passed over in favor of Kona Ice. Leung noted he had received positive feedback from Watson and other city officials and his proposal included longer hours of operation seven days a week.

Kona’s accepted proposal is for operation Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and reduced to weekends in midAugust.

Humphrey said the limited hours were an oversight on the council’s part and Parks Supervisor Kristin D’Amico had recommended making a change this year. Humphrey added it would not be fair to take the contract from Kona now.

Humphrey encouraged Leung to look for alternative locations in the city, and said the beach concession likely won’t exist much longer as the beach improvement plans call for its complete removal in the next few years.

Returning to an issue tabled at their February meeting, the council voted to vacate a portion of the public right of way at 317 North Whittaker to clear a long-existing encroachment. The encroaching patio is needed to give the property owner access to the house. The council previously tabled the issue to consider the legal aspects and look at possible alternatives. Prior to the council taking action, Parks and Harbor Commission Member Don Stoneburner asked them to consider how the vacating could impact future plans for a pedestrian bridge over the Galien River. The council concluded that the bridge will in all likelihood be situated on the opposite side of the street, and the vacated side will still have room if any construction is necessary.

The council went into closed

session to discuss litigation strategy.

Future legal matters will soon go through a new attorney, as Watson informed the council that city attorney Nick Curcio has given notice that he is withdrawing as the city’s legal counsel effective June 30. The council approved a Request for Proposal to seek new counsel.

Watson said Curcio has agreed to stay on longer if a new attorney is not selected by June 30, and he will continue to advise on legal matters he is already representing the city on.

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he council heard from representatives from 360 Risk Management, but tabled any decision.

Humphrey said they wanted more time to fully understand the services and costs.

Melissa Hirn explained the firm offers insurance consulting to ensure that the city has adequate, up to date coverage, as well as HR consulting and training.

Bob Webber, director of underwriting at 360, noted the city has a wide range of potential exposures from everything, from playground maintenance to employee driving records.

The council had a second reading of the Chapter 23 amendment defining rental durations.

The council also approved a moratorium on new residential buildings in General Commercial zones. Watson said the city needs to clean up zoning guidelines to make them more consistent. The moratorium will run until Dec. 31, 2022.

Only one company, TJM Services, submitted a bid for Dunewalk Phase II work. Tony McGhee of Abonmarche, the

engineering firm overseeing the project, told the council it is difficult to get bids currently, and construction prices could increase in the future. He said he is familiar with TJM’s work and feels they are capable. The council approved the Allegan-based firm’s bid.

The council also accepted an engineering service proposal from Abonmarche in the amount of $67,300 for updating the municipal marina. McGhee said materials are on back order and work will begin after the 2022 boating season.

On the requirement of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), the council approved a Sediment Basin Maintenance agreement for the Mayhew Street storm drain. Watson said under the agreement, the city is still responsible for correcting issues with the drain, but if the Berrien County Drain Commission does not judge the work to be adequate, it can perform necessary work at the city’s expense. McGhee said the project is going out for bid this week.

Fourth of July fireworks will return this year. The council approved a quote from Pyrotechnico for $15,000 to put on a show at the public beach Saturday, July 2.

A tasting room permit request for Black Dragon LLC at 910 W Buffalo received council approval.

No action was taken on a food truck request submitted by Agnes Tylka. Humphrey said the council should not approve any food trucks in the city until the council has established a policy outlining how many trucks will be allowed, and possibly locations, duration and other limits.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

Mike Cluster

Russell Tillery

LaSata plan encourages collaboration, broadband investment in Michigan

R New school resource officer named at New Buffalo Middle/High School

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BY STAN MADDUX

eople ranging from students to high school sports fans in New Buffalo will have to adjust to a new face in law enforcement.

Mike Cluster is being replaced as school resource officer at New Buffalo Middle-High School.

The announcement Monday, March 22, was a source of sadness judging by Facebook posts of people who described Cluster as “loved” and the reassignment a “mistake.”

Cluster often engaged with students during lunch and did other things, like monitor the speed of travelers outside the school after class was dismissed for the day.

A lot of people also seemed to enjoy his friendly, spirited presence at athletic events.

“He was very outgoing and he interacted with everybody,” said New Buffalo Area Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Leslie.

New Buffalo Police Sgt. Russell Tillery has been named to the position.

He should complete his transition into the new role by Nov. 1, said New Buffalo Police

Chief Rich Killips.

Cluster had been the school resource officer since the fall of 2018.

Killips said the change was “strictly a job assignment adjustment” within the department and was made after speaking with Cluster.

“It was decided that an immediate change would be in the best interest of all parties involved,” he said.

No specifics were given for the change, but Killips said there was no danger or threat to any students or staff members.

Leslie chose not to shed light on the change because the school resource officer is employed by the city and appointed by police chief.

He said the school corporation pays the city for the services provided under the positon.

Leslie said another reason the decision might be unpopular is people having to get used to a new face.

“I think any time you’ve got change, that’s a challenge. He could be back at some point.

That’s kind of up to the chief,” he said.

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ecently, State Sen. Kim LaSata has introduced legislation to address the lack of broadband investment in Michigan and encourage collaboration between municipalities and broadband providers to expand access for Michigan residents.

“This is something my office has been working on with local communities for some time, and I am excited to see this statewide effort beginning to take shape,” said Sen. Kim LaSata, R-Niles. “This plan provides various avenues for funding to help make it successful and encourages localities to work with broadband providers to meet their specific local needs.”

Senate Bill 970, introduced by LaSata, would establish the County Broadband Completion Program to help support projects to improve broadband access across the state. The measure could utilize multiple funding streams, including a state appropriation, but could largely be funded through a requirement in the legislation that the state of Michigan apply for federal grant funding to help fund

broadband expansion efforts.

Under the bill, interested counties must prepare an investment plan that identifies where broadband expansion is needed in the county and work with an internet service provider to make upgrades and meet the identified networking needs. Projects must be completed within 10 years of receiving grant funding or within federally required timeframes tied to federal funding.

“We have been working on expanding broadband access in Michigan, especially in rural areas, but unfortunately these efforts have been met with the governor’s veto pen,” LaSata said. “The reality is that we need to improve broadband investment in our state, especially as more and more daily tasks require reliable internet access.

“My office has had discussions with local officials in my district and across the state to come up with a meaningful effort that puts money on the table to get the job done.”

Various local organizations have voiced their support for the bill. It will be now referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Technology for testimony and further consideration. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

SPORTS

La Lumiere basketball player presented with ceremonial jersey

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BY STAN MADDUX

boys’ basketball player from La Lumiere High School was presented with his ceremonial jersey as one of the members of the 2022 McDonald’s All American teams.

Two 12-member teams consisting of McDonald’s All-Americans will play each other March 29 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

J.J. Starling was presented the jersey during a Friday, March 18, ceremony at the school in northern LaPorte County.

“It’s a blessing. This was a dream of mine since I was a little kid and just to be named with some of the great players in the country is just a blessing,” Starling told WNDU-TV out of South Bend after the presentation.

Starling, a transfer from Baldwinsville, New York, is committed to play next season at the University of Notre Dame.

For 45 years, the McDonald’s All American Games have given some of the nation’s best high school

basketball players a chance to show off their skills on a national stage.

The 6’4” guard was chosen from more than 760 nominees from across the country.

“It’s an awesome honor. All of his hard work has paid off to where he was able to make the team, which is great,” said La Lumiere Head Coach Patrick Holmes.

Many former McDonald’s All-Americans have gone on to play in the NBA, including La Lumiere graduates Jared Jackson, Jr. and Isaiah Stewart.

J

ackson plays for the Memphis Grizzlies while Stewart is a member of the Detroit Pistons.

The other was Brian Bowen, Jr., who plays for the Iowa Wolves in the NBA G League.

Holmes said Starling’s ability to score from all over the court is his best strength.

He also finishes strong at the rim.

Starling led the team in scoring at more than 16 points a game.

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

T

he hits just keep on coming.

Once again, it was a big week in the sporting world.

And once again, a feel good story will lead the way.

About a month ago, the University of Michigan’s head basketball coach, Juwan Howard, had a meltdown and swung at an opposing coach because he felt that he and his team had been disrespected.

The episode led to a brawl and Howard was suspended for five games. Many thought he should have been fired and in the current climate, I was surprised that he wasn’t .

Fast forward to this weekend. Michigan was a big underdog against Tennessee, but came out on top, 76-68. In the handshake line after the game, Tennessee star Kennedy Chandler was obviously extremely upset.

So coach Howard took it upon himself to embrace and console the young man.

What I took away from these incidents was important to me. We all make mistakes.

If every time we made a mistake we were dismissed, our world would be a horrible place. Certainly, some mistakes are bigger than others, but whenever we can, it would be so much better if after we made a mistake we did our best to correct our behavior and those of us who learned about the mistake showed a little compassion.

Anyway, thanks for the lesson coach Howard and good luck to the Wolverines for the rest of the tournament.

Michigan State played well against Duke, but the Blue Devils emerged victorious and coach Krzyzewski survived to coach another

game. Coach K has been a great leader and will retire when the season ends.

In other games of local interest, Loyola of Chicago fell rather meekly to Ohio State, and the University of Illinois lost to Houston after a referee called a technical foul on an Illinois player who had a fast break and hung on the rim for a second to regain his balance. It appeared to be a bad call and swung the momentum to Houston who ended up winning by 15. Only sixteen teams remain in the hunt for the championship.

Major League Baseball’s off season is in full swing. The Cubs signed Japanese superstar Seiya Suzuki to a 5 year contract, and appear to be ready to start competing again in the near future. So many free agents were signed and so much money was spent that it’s almost unbelievable that they had to resort to a strike/lockout to hammer things out. We will all be happy on April 7 for the Cubs, and April 8 for the White Sox ( who are playing the Tigers ) when the umpire yells “play ball”.

The NFL free agent stars are mostly signed, but many good players remain.

I hope the Bears can pick up a few. The college draft is April 28-30 and if the Bears are going to improve, that’s where it has to begin.

Ernest Hemingway said, “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.”

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

You don’t beat Duke, unless you beat Duke. They’re not going to beat themselves. — Tom Izzo

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

LA LUMIERE BOYS’ BASKETBALL TEAM VYING FOR NATIONAL TITLE

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he boys’ high school basketball team from La Lumiere will be vying for the national title for the seventh consecutive year.

The Lakers received an invitation last week to compete in the Geico Nationals in Ft. Myers, Florida.

La Lumiere (21-4) is the No. 7 seed and opens the tournament March 31 against No. 2 seed IMG Academy.

The game at 3 p.m. CST will be televised by ESPNU. The Lakers defeated the team from Bradenton, Florida in double overtime in the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference invitational also televised by ESPN at the La Porte Civic Auditorium.

Head Coach Pat Holmes called the eight teams in the national tournament “the strongest field we’ve ever had.”

“Everyone has a chance to win it. It’s just which team is playing the best at the right time of year,” he said.

Holmes said he was confident of being invited again because of the strength of their schedule.

“We have some really good wins and the teams that we lost to are all really good teams that also have been invited to the Geico tournament,” he said.

La Lumiere has also been invited to the national tournament in 10 of the last 11 seasons.

The Lakers won the tournament in 2017 and was runner-up in 2019.

Holmes said execution and limiting turnovers along rebounding will be among the keys for success by his team.

“We have all of the ability to win this event,” he said. — STAN

MADDUX

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

W

9

School sports merger talks scheduled

BY STAN MADDUX

hether to combine more sports programs in the New Buffalo and River Valley school districts will be the discussed at community meetings next week.

New Buffalo Area Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Leslie said the focus of the discussions will be “is that something we want to pursue? There’s pros and cons to both.”

Leslie said combining more or all of the sports might make sense given the success of the high school football programs in both school districts merging last season.

He said current enrollment at New Buffalo High School at 185 has held pretty steady over the past couple of years following a decline and it’s challenging for some teams to

have enough student participation given the number of sports offered for a small school.

Leslie said the middle school eight man football team in New Buffalo, for example, finished the season with just nine players due to injuries.

However, he said the seventh-grade boys’ basketball team with 17 players had more than enough.

“From a basketball standpoint, I think our numbers are really good. It’s just with some of these other sports,” he said.

The meetings at New Buffalo and River Valley High Schools are scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 29.

“I think the next week to 10 days are going to be kind of telling in terms of what direction all of that is going to go,” Leslie said.

Berrien County deputy receives Meritorious Service Award

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he Berrien County Sheriff’s Office presented a Meritorious Service Award to Deputy Christian Campbell at the Berrien County Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday, March 17.

Deputy Christian Campbell was cited and commended for his actions Feb. 22, 2022, in the apprehension of an armed suspect, who had just shot and wounded an individual in the City of Benton Harbor. His courage, tenacity, and resourcefulness were instrumental in the successful apprehension of this individual and the recovery of the firearm used, thus preventing potential harm to other officers and civilians. He is also commended for providing aid to the victim after securing the scene.

“Deputy Campbell is recognized for his outstanding effort to apprehend a violent, armed felon under difficult circumstances. He also exhibited extreme professionalism while providing basic first aid to the shooting victim,” Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey said. — STAFF REPORTS

www.newbuffalotimes.com

10 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

New Buffalo students present ‘Matilda Jr.’

D

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

uring the New Buffalo Theater Department’s production of “Matilda Jr.,” which took place in the New Buffalo Performing Arts Center Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 18-20, Mr. Wormwood revealed to the audience this staggering fact: 98% of children who read a book in their lifetime will die.

The musical follows the life of an extraordinary little girl with extraordinary powers. Matilda Wormwood finds refuge in her books as she seeks strength to deal with her abusive parents as well as the terrifying

headmistress Miss Trunchbull, who adheres to Crunchen Hall’s motto: “Bambinatum est Magitum,” or “Children are Maggots.”

The 17-member cast “Matilda Jr.” included Ella Roch (Matilda), Amanda Jones (Miss Honey), Kaitlyn Jones (Mrs. Wormwood), Aiden Sokol (Mr. Wormwood), and Allison Ransom (Miss Trunchbull).

The musical was directed

by Chris Beushausen, music teacher. Assistant director was student- Lauren Nash.

Choreographer was Val Street and technical director was Dwayne Whitmyer.

Miss Honey (Amanda Jones), right, levels with Matilda (Ella Roch)

Miss Trunchbull (Alison Ransom) performs a number with her pupils

Students at Crunchen Hall break out in song

Students at Crunchen Hall perform Miracle

Matilda (Ella Roch) tells a story to librarian Mrs. Phelps (Libby Lamport)

Pupils at Crunchen Hall break out in song

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 11

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12 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 13

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The Greek Food and Pastry Drive-up Sale will be from 12 P.M. - 6 P.M., Friday - Saturday, April 8-9 at the Annunciation & St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church+, 18000 Behner Road, New Buffalo, MI. Order forms will post on the Facebook page of the Annunciation and St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church or by going to www.stparaskevifest2020.square.site.

Forms also may be obtained by calling the church office at (269) 231-9052. The deadline is March 31.

Friday’s offerings will include homemade pastries, pork kabobs, and appetizer-sized cheese or spinach pitas.

Saturday’s offerings will include homemade pastries, gyros (Saturday only), pork kabobs, and appetizer-sized cheese or spinach pitas.

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14 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

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

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Church and Polish couple partner to help Ukrainians

A

BY STAN MADDUX

LaPorte County Police officer and his wife are involved in a church fund raising effort to help Ukrainian refugees where they grew up in Poland.

Bethany Lutheran Church in LaPorte is raising the money and matching every dollar contributed to the cause.

Slawek Czupryna, a 19-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, said his wife, Agniescka, is making the connections in their homeland for getting the money into the proper hands.

The funds will go to a refugee shelter being created in a vacant building that used to be the elementary school Mrs. Czupryna attended in Podlipie.

Podlipie, which has about 1,100 residents, is about three hours from the border with Ukraine.

“They want to open up the school so those kids can attend school and some of those families can live nearby or even live in the school for the time being,” he said.

Having grown up in a village about a 10-minute drive away, Mr. Czupryna didn’t attend the school but went there for activities like sporting events.

Pastor Dennis Meyer said the goal is to raise $5,000 from donations and church matching funds.

The idea sprung from discussions about Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine between Meyer and Mr. Czupryna, who know each other well from their work in the community.

“Not only are we praying but we’re acting,” Meyer said.

It’s estimated Poland has taken in more than two million fleeing Ukrainian residents.

“And the number is growing,” Meyer said.

Czupryna, 39, said he and his wife knew each other while growing up from attending the same church but later went separate ways.

He and his siblings came to America with their mother in 1996.

Czupryna said his father, who was looking for more opportunity, had already been here for a number of years and was working at the Kingsbury Industrial Park.

Agniescka came with her family to attend college and settled in Chicago.

As fate would have it, perhaps, they had a friend who invited them to a family related gathering in Chicago.

C

zupryna said he didn’t know Agniescka was going to be there but she knew he was coming.

“One thing led to another and here we are,” he said.

Czupryna said his wife is staying on top of the situation during regular phone conversations with her sister, who’s planning to help at the refugee center.

He also has family members still living in Poland.

“I feel for these people. I wish I could help more but, unfortunately, I’m here and they’re over there,” he said.

Meyer said donations are being accepted at the church at 102 G Street and on the church website.

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 15

HOR0SCOPE MARCH 24-30, 2022

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

It is time for you to shine with your whole being, to break free from the restrictions and limitations you have let others place on you.

This is the time to believe in your talents and share them with world. You are in position to understand what is really keeping you from personal satisfaction.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

This week things will transpire to confirm you are your own worst critic. It is time to come to terms with the inner dialogue you are repeating in your head. You will see that people around you care and you are the one pulling away. So, get back in there and do not be afraid to show your true feelings.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

If you are feeling stranded and on your own on some remote emotional island it is because you are. This is an excellent week to communicate past hurts that you have been holding back. This will create conditions that will deepen the bonds between you and another.

Trying to force issues and make things fit into your preconceived notions can cause other people to feel restricted and confined. Release the need to make people understand what you are going through or making them see how you have been hurt. Figure it out on your own and move past it.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

You will be running into obstacles, roadblocks, and setbacks.

Communications will be all over the place. Once you think you have a handle on something another issue will arise in a totally unexpected area. Know that this is an opportunity to get let go of expectations and attachments.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

You will be feeling like you are ready for a complete change in the way things have been going and are ready to do whatever it takes to make things happen. The feeling can be overwhelming and cause you to appear rebellious to others. Do not let others or their perceptions stop you now.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The motivating force you have been waiting for is here and it is time to get moving.

Expect an increase in all areas of your life.

Realize this also means an increase in the demands you feel from others.

There may be some power-plays and control dramas but you are stronger and will stay on top.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

Continual pushing and forcing how you feel and what you want will create a lot of tension in your close relationships.

Try not to lean on others or focus too much attention on what others are or are not doing. It is time to step out on your own and take care of your own needs in your own way.

If you have been waiting for others to make the first or to validate your line of thinking, forget about it! You are on your own kid. The truth is you do not need anyone’s approval now. You are experiencing a “Divine Discontentment” because it is time to go on your own and trust in yourself.

Other people are requiring more of your attention than normal and you have definite ideas about how this situation should be handled. Unfortunately, your perception may be completely opposite of theirs. The best course for you at this time is to release attachment to outcome and step back.

Wanting the best of both world is causing people around you to feel uneasy and they are going to question your motives. Being forthright and honest is always the best approach. The problems you are experiencing are due to the fact that you are not expressing your authentic self.

It is important that you get clear who and what is important here. You have the tendency to put others emotional and physical desires above your own. You are not getting what you need under these conditions and it may cause you to harbor negativity without realizing it. Be more vocal.

Virtue the business of emotion, opinion, judgment, act or silence.

Attention to the mean required. — Dino N. Fatouros

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16 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

New assembly plant revving up

C

8 kids a day are accidentally killed or injured by FAMILY FIRE. FAMILY FIRE is a shooting involving an improperly stored gun, often found in the home.

ENDFAMILYFIRE.org

BY STAN MADDUX

lose to 40 people are working there now but more than 300 could be punching a time clock at a new assembly plant.

A ribbon cutting was held March 16 at Corsicana Mattress Company.

One of the leading makers of mattresses in the U.S. opened its ninth location inside a once vacant 165,000 square foot manufacturing structure five miles west of LaPorte.

James Booth, chief operating officer for the Dallas, Texas, based firm, said the assembly plant is operating at about 10% capacity.

The plan is to be at full capacity once close to 300 more workers have been hired and trained over the next 18 months.

“You can only bring so many people in at a time and train them. There’s a tremendous amount of training,” Booth said.

Eventually, Booth said about 15% of the beds in a box produced by the company will come out of the new plant at Indiana 2 and 500 West.

Customers seem drawn by the price and convenience of the combination inner spring and memory foam mattress, which folds out when taken out of the box.

The bed in a box is available at brick and mortar stores and online.

Booth said the company founded in 1971 also makes its own traditional mattresses and mattresses under a contract to the specifics of other brands.

The firm listed by Furniture Today as among the top ten largest

makers of mattresses in the nation employs about 950 people at eight other locations in Texas, North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, Arizona, Washington, Connecticut and Illinois.

Booth said the company was looking to open another Midwest location to reduce shipping costs for customers when he discovered the structure, which has been empty for about 20 years, between LaPorte and Westville.

He was immediately sold on the height, column spacing and layout of the building.

“It’s what we needed,” he said.

Booth said more than $3 million was spent on restoring the once dilapidated but structurally sound facility.

Over $4 million was invested on things like equipment and inventory.

B

ooth said the location is also ideal for reaching more customers between Chicago and Detroit because of shipping costs being lower from having a plant closer to those markets.

Another reason cited for the expansion was meeting higher demand from an increase in online sales early in the COVID-19 pandemic.

LaPorte County Commission President Sheila Matias said new jobs is most rewarding about the effort involved in bringing the property back to life.

Matias said it’s also special to have a once crumbling structure with trees growing inside put back to good use.

“It was a long journey. I can’t be happier. I can’t be prouder,” she said.

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 17

League to present a conversation with Judge Mabel Mayfield

n recognition of National Women’s History Month, the League of Women Voters of Berrien and Cass Counties has announced it will present a special program featuring the Honorable Mabel Mayfield, Chief Judge of the Berrien County Trial Court.

In this virtual Zoom program, Judge Mayfield will share her perspectives on Justice, Civil Rights, and Voting Rights.

The public is invited to join this

virtual presentation via Zoom at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 29.

Members of the public are welcome and should go to the League’s website (www.lwvbcc.org) to obtain the link to register for the Zoom meeting.

The League of Women Voters is proud to be nonpartisan, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or political parties at any level of government, but always working on vital issues of concern to members and the public. — STAFF REPORTS

Hikers schedules trip to Lydick Bog

T

he Harbor Country Hikers will explore a kettle hole bog at Lydick Bog Nature d Preserve in South Bend, at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2.

Kettle hole bogs were formed when huge blocks of ice detached from glaciers during the ice ages. The falling ice created depressions in the ground, which filled with water as the ice melted. Kettle hole bogs contain unusual flora, including insect-eating plants.

Lydick Bog is a dedicated Indiana State Nature Preserve that protects one of the last remaining sphagnum bogs in the state. It contains several d different habitats and is home to

amphibians and reptiles. It also attracts a wide variety of birds.

Doug Botka, Stewardship Ecologist for the Shirley Heinze Land Trust and lead steward of Lydick Bog, will lead the April 2 hike. Hikers will cover about two miles of trails, and the physical difficulty of this hike is rated moderate. Those who attend are advised to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring plenty of water.

For more information about the hike, and for directions, visit www. harborcountryhikers.com or visit Harbor Country Hikers on Facebook.

PUBLIC NOTICES

The City of New Buffalo is seeking summer beach and marina employees.

Candidates must be reliable, enjoy being outdoors and working with the public.

For more information, visit the Employment Opportunities section on the city’s website (www. cityofnewbuffalo.org). Candidates should submit an application to afidler@cityofnewbuffalo.org, or mail to City Clerk at 224 W. Buffalo Street, New Buffalo, MI 49117.

INTEGRITY • EXPERIENCE • SUCCESS

CHICAGO, IL • NEW BUFFALO, MI

MARK A. LAROSE

ATTORNEY AT LAW MLAROSE@LAROSEBOSCOLAW.COM CONTACT US NEW BUFFALO 269-469-8440 CHICAGO 312-642-4414 TOLL FREE 877-500-1965

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New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022 19

SPRING CREEK TO HOLD EGG HUNT WITH HORSES

T

he Spring Creek Equestrian Center will hold its “Annual Easter Egg Hunt with Horses” at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 9.

Children should bring their own basket, dress for a barn, and arrive early as the egg hunt will begin promptly at 3 p.m.

During the event, children can have their photos taken with the Easter Bunny and S’More, the pony, and there will be horses for kids to pet. There will also be “Baskets of Horse Love” for sale, filled with an assortment of items for the young horse lover.

The baskets go on sale April 1 and can be purchased at the event or in advance at the barn.

The basket sales will benefit the Spring Creek Horses Help Foundation, which provides local, low-income children and adults an equine-based educational program on horse behavior, barn and horse care, and riding skills.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Spring Creek Equestrian Center is located at 16771 Pardee Road in Three Oaks.

Those who plan to attend should email Alison at algrosse@ yahoo.com or text her at 269756-3894. Please let her know the number and ages of children who will be attending, to ensure we have plenty of eggs for the hunt.

For more details, go to www. springcreek-equestrian.com. —

STAFF REPORTS

Best live music in Harbor country

UPCOMING SHOWS The Music of Ella & Billie

SAT 3/26 8 P.M. ET

The Erly

w/ Resurrection Blues Band

SAT 4/2 8 P.M. ET

Billy Elton

SAT 4/9 8 P.M

Mountain Heart

SUN 4/10 7 P.M. ET

Chicago Comedy Tour

Chicago’s best sketch, stand-up and improv comedy!

SAT 4/23 8 P.M. ET

See more events on our website!

acornlive.org

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20 THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

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