June 4, 2020

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 23, volume 79

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Thursday, June 4, 2020

Gov. Whitmer rescinds Safer at Home Order, moves Michigan to Phase Four of the MI Safe Start Plan PAGE 4 Antibody testing now being conducted at Spectrum Lakeland Health PAGE 8 Popular New Buffalo eatery reopens after coronavirus scare PAGE 9 Michigan National Guard assists with voluntary COVID-19 testing for Berrien County Jail, long-term care facilities PAGE 10

LOVE THY NEIGHBOR St. Mary of the Lake, diocesan parishes resume Mass with limitations PAGE 12

MICHIGAN CITY RESPONDS WITH POSITIVE PROTECTION — PAGE 7 — PHOTO BY JOE DURK

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

School of American Music now offering online course for new students, receives Pokagon Fund grant

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he School of American Music (SAM) is offering online courses in piano, violin, voice, guitar, ukulele and mountain dulcimer, effective immediately.

Under Michigan guidelines, the school has suspended face-to-face lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic. SAM has been offering virtual lessons for existing students. It is now opening that option for new students, too.

In response to the economic hardship the pandemic has created, for the summer months, scholarships of up to 100% for SAM lessons are available from SAM’s scholarship fund. Recently, SAM has received a $10,000 grant from the Pokagon Fund, which will enable the school to extend the summer scholarship program.

“With families feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are going into an economically difficult time,” Garth Taylor, SAM president, said in a press release. “Music is important, especially now when we need an escape from the bad news as we wait for the pandemic to end. This grant helps us to help our community in this time of need.”

Taylor said the school’s staff and directors have been working to provide remote teaching capabilities and trying out various platforms.

“These are unusual times that require

unusual approaches. The need for music education hasn’t stopped because of the coronavirus, and it’s our job to find a safe, effective way to deliver lessons,” Taylor said in a press release.

Executive Director Donna Mitchell added, “Our primary platform for online lessons is Zoom, but individual instructors have been experimenting with Google Meet and other platforms.”

To meet safety concerns, SAM offers music lessons in several formats: online, via Zoom and other software; socially distanced face-to-face lessons starting the week of June 7 at the Three Oaks Arts & Education Center (14 E. Maple Street), and, when the governor allows, socially distanced face-to-face lessons in its studios at the Three Oaks Public Library.

For information about online lessons, call SAM at 269-409-1191 or email schoolofamericanmusic@gmail.com.

To find out more about SAM and its lesson offerings, and to register online, visit the school’s website, schoolofamericanmusic.com.

This activity is supported by The Pokagon Fund.

SAM is seeking additional support to extend its up-to-100% scholarship program for the year.

“We want everyone to take advantage of this program,” Taylor said, “all ages, new and returning students, home school students.” — Staff Reports

CORRECTION The May 21, 2020 edition of New Buffalo Times contained an incorrect public notice. The notice that was run erroneously stated there would be a city of New Buffalo budget meeting on meeting May 21.

The correct notice was printed in the May 14 edition.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO MAYOR LOU O’DONNELL IV CITY COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DDA) MEETING Meets on the 2nd Thursday May, September, and November at 8AM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS Meets on the first 1st Tuesday Quarterly at 7PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP 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 CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP 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 VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Gov. Whitmer rescinds Safer at Home Order, moves Michigan to Phase Four of the MI Safe Start Plan RETAILERS, RESTAURANTS WILL BE PERMITTED TO OPEN WITH CAPACITY LIMITS, SOCIAL DISTANCING

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ov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-110, rescinding her Safer at Home order and moving the entire state to phase four of the MI Safe Start Plan, Monday, June 1.

The governor’s order will allow retailers to reopen Thursday, June 4, and restaurants to reopen Monday, June 8, both subject to capacity limits.

Day camps for children will likewise be permitted to open June 8. Effective immediately, groups of 100 or less will be allowed gather outdoors with social distancing. Office work that is not capable of being performed remotely can resume. And in-home services, including housecleaning services, can resume operations.

“The data has shown that we are ready to carefully move our state into the next phase of the MI Safe Start Plan, but we owe it to our brave frontline heroes to get this right,” said Whitmer in a press release. “While Michiganders are no longer required to stay home, we must all continue to be smart and practice social distancing, and encourage those who meet the criteria to get tested for COVID-19. If we all do our part, our goal is to announce a shift to phase five for the entire state prior to the fourth of July.

Stay smart, stay safe, and let’s all do our part.”

Michiganders must continue to wear facial coverings when in enclosed public spaces and should continue to take all reasonable precautions to protect

themselves, their loved ones, and the community. And they should continue to work from home to the maximum extent possible.

“The governor and I, along with a team of experts, have determined that our state is ready to move into the next phase of the MI Safe Start Plan. Hospitalization numbers are down, our frontline workers have PPE to last them several weeks, and the number of positive cases and deaths are declining,” said MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “We will continue to monitor the data and work closely with local health departments to ensure Michiganders practice safe social distancing. On behalf of our health care professionals and first responders on the front lines, we must all be smart and be safe.”

“As the hardest-hit region in the state, Wayne County and its residents are ready to safely return to greater activity and commerce,” said Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. “We continue to vigilantly monitor the spread of COVID-19 and will do so to make sure the number of daily cases continues to decline. It’s is been an extremely difficulty three months for all of us, but the social distancing measures we have put in place has slowed the spread of this disease and saved lives. Today is an important step toward returning to some semblance of normalcy, but it is important for all of to continue following that safe distancing and work directives outlined in Stage 4 of the MI Safe Start

plan.”

“I appreciate Governor Whitmer for her diligence and commitment to reopening the state safely. We look forward to reopening Detroit safely and efficiently,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.

“We know we still have challenges to face, but moving into this next phase acknowledges the huge strides this state has made to slow the spread of this deadly virus,” said Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “I appreciate Gov. Whitmer’s caution and proactive response throughout this crisis. Her leadership has undoubtedly saved lives.”

“The last few months have been very hard for everyone. I applaud the Governor for doing everything she can to keep us safe,” said Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. “And now that the curve has flattened and I am very excited that we have moved into phase 4 and can have things start to reopen. Economic issues have been very challenging in Lansing and across the state, but we know it was necessary to save lives. Now we are ready to get back to growing our city here in Lansing and the economy throughout the state!”

Subject to local regulation, gyms and fitness centers may conduct outdoor classes, practices, training sessions, or games, provided that coaches, spectators, and participants maintain six feet of distance from one another during these activities. Outdoor pools can also reopen, with restricted capacity. — STAFF REPORTS NEW BUFFALO TIMES

Speak softly but carry a big can of paint.

— Banksy

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Berrien County provides additional COVID-19 data on updated dashboard

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he Berrien County Health Department has released an updated and improved online web-based data dashboard for the public.

The link for this data dashboard is found at www.bchdmi.org/ COVID19.

First released April 30, 2020, this dashboard provides information regarding the confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Berrien County as well as information on those who have recovered from or died as a result of the virus. This dashboard also includes an interactive map of COVID-19 cases by zip code, demographic breakdowns of cases, sdeaths, and recoveries and charts showing trends in cases over time.

Newly added information now includes important metrics, such as the weekly average of percent positive COVID-19 tests, percentage point difference in positive tests from the previous week to show a trend, trends for inpatient hospitalizations census by date, and total number of tests completed, cumulatively and per week.

“Accuracy and transparency are paramount as we continue to respond to this pandemic,” said Nicki Britten, health officer for the Berrien County Health Department, in a press release from the health department, Spectrum Health Lakeland and County of Berrien.

“We continue to expand and improve data reporting to make sure the public understands the trends and context behind the numbers so they know where their community

stands with the COVID-19 outbreak.”

While data reporting continues to improve, there are still limitations to the information provided on the Berrien County dashboard. The map shown on the dashboard does not show how or where the virus is being transmitted, nor does it show where individuals were exposed to the disease. With community-wide spread of COVID-19, there is a risk of viral transmission in all areas of the county. Residents are asked to take precautions wherever they live, such as maintaining a social distance of six feet or more from others when in public, wearing a face covering in enclosed public places, staying home when they feel sick, and keeping up with rigorous hand hygiene.

Also announced this past week by the State of Michigan is another data tool available to the public called the MI Safe Start Map. A new, online dashboard launched in collaboration by the State of Michigan and University of Michigan visually illustrates COVID-19 risks and trends in Michigan, including trends by region, providing residents with information about the status of COVID-19 where they live and work. This dashboard data is divided into Michigan Economic Recovery Council (MERC) regions, as indicated by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s MI Safe Start Plan.

Given differences in some of the data sources for this state-wide dashboard, members of the public may notice small inconsistencies with the percentages calculated in this State of Michigan data versus what is provided on Berrien County’s

dashboard. Berrien County leaders are looking closely at the overall trends presented in the data, instead of tracking information solely day by day.

With the expanded information provided through the online dashboards, the Berrien County Health Department will be sunsetting the daily COVID-19 data update that had been previously provided through its social media channels on Facebook and Instagram. These social media channels will continue to be utilized to promote timely public health messages, department service information, and recommendations on how to cope with COVID-19 in safer ways for individuals and families.

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oving forward, the Health Department will be providing weekly trend analysis to better interpret the data monitored to offer more meaning and context behind the numbers. The Berrien County data dashboard will continue to be updated daily with information gathered by the Berrien County Health Department and with partnership from Spectrum Health Lakeland.

Anyone can access this internetbased dashboard at the link on www. bchdmi.org/COVID19 and for a more detailed breakdown of hospital testing and utilization data, visit www.spectrumhealthlakeland.org/ covid19. — STAFF REPORTS

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New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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HAVING A PLAN... eaving treatment without a plan is like going on a road trip without a map. It is very important to have a set plan before leaving treatment. The plan should be realistic and the recovering person should be able to follow it without getting discouraged. This plan should include both structure and accountability.

It should also have goals that are reachable and reasonable. This helps the recovering person feel accomplished and productive. The plan does not have to be filled with things you don’t typically want to do. It should incorporate some fun things as well, so they don’t get burnt out. After a long day of being productive maybe they would like to go to the gym or the beach, that’s completely fine. The quickest way to relapse after treatment is a person having way too much time on their hands. Where getting drunk or high filled this time before they went to treatment.

They should now fill this new found time with a solid plan in a structured environment. Following this plan can help eliminate the stress and anxiety that comes up when going back into the real world after completing treatment. This will greatly increase a person’s chances of being successful and remaining clean and sober.

For more information on having a plan after treatment, go to www.narconon-suncoast.org/blog/ leaving-treatment-without-a-plan-is-like-going-on-aroad-trip-without-a-map.html. If you are in need of a referral to a treatment center, call us at 877-841-5509

— SHAUNA KROUT CLEARWATER, FL

New Buffalo Times

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Shootings, COVID-19 bring early curtain to Washington Park

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BY STAN MADDUX

ashington Park in Michigan City is closing early for now in response to shootings and COVID-19.

Mayor Duane Parry on May 29 ordered the park closed indefinitely at 9 p.m.

He said the idea is to limit the number of people gathering to avoid the problems that occurred when turnout at the park was greater than expected over Memorial Day weekend.

“Unfortunately, most did not exercise the required social distancing, jamming nearly elbow to elbow on the beach and in the main parking lot throughout the day and into the night,” Parry said.

Parry said the large crowds and higher than normal temperatures also made conditions ripe for disturbances and

fights.

According to police, a 17-year-old male and 25-year-old female were shot at 10 p.m. the night before Memorial Day in one of the parking lots.

Both victims were treated and released from the hospital.

Two vehicles were damaged as a result of the incident, police said.

Normally, the park is open until 10 p.m.

Parry said police will disperse any large congregations in and around Washington Park and the hours will be restored “once responsible safe behavior is again exhibited.”

“These actions will not be tolerated and we will hold accountable all individuals who disrupt the peace we expect as residents,” said Michigan City Police Chief Dion Campbell.

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com Protesters lined up oustide the Michigan City Police Department

THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 Michigan City Police Chief Dion Campbell speaking with the crowd outside Lighthouse Premium Outlets

Michigan City protest relatively peaceful, minor exceptions

BY JOE DURK PHOTOS BY JOE DURK AND SOPHIA FATOUROS

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n Sunday, May 31, a protest, which started at 6 p.m., was held outside the Michigan City Police Department.

Participants were inspired to “Stand in Solidarity” with the Minneapolis protests, which started after the death of 46-year-old George Floyd.

Floyd, a black man, died during an arrest on Monday, May 25, while Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, pinned Floyd face-down on the pavement with his knee on the back of Floyd’s neck.

The protest on the east side of Michigan City was relatively peaceful. After organizers and members spoke, the group marched on Michigan Boulevard. The route was to head to the beach, but made a turn to Lighthouse Premium Outlets on the west side.

The police had secured all entrances to the mall, with mall maintenance vehicles serving as barricades. A plow truck had its windows busted and was spray-painted.

Three businesses outside the outlet mall had windows busted.

The protest came to a peaceful and non-violent end as Michigan City Police Chief Dion Campbell walked into the crowd and spoke over a megaphone, calling for a quiet end.

Lighthouse Liquors was boarded up for security after its windows were busted out

Walmart had closed on Sunday, May 31, and barricaded its doors to prevent looting

Michigan City Police had closed Lightouse Premium Outlets on Monday, June 1

Chikaming Township Police Chief Todd Taylor posted this letter on Chikaming Township Police Department’s Facebook on May 29, condemning the behavior of the officers responsible for killing George Floyd.

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Greetings, Chikaming Township: We want to reassure the public that we condemn the behavior of the officers in Minneapolis. This is not how we train or operate at the Chikaming Township Police Department. We care for and serve everyone in our community regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc., with honor and will continue to do so.

I have fielded some questions from our public in regards to training we have taken concerning racial diversity and the equipment we have. To address some of the concerns about training, our team trains annually on racial diversity/anti bias policing. Here is the language in the first page of the training: “The face of America continues to evolve, and our nation is more diverse than ever before. People in cities, suburbs, and towns served by law enforcement are a rich tapestry of races, ethnicities, religions, and cultures. This diverse group of individuals deserves to be treated with kindness, compassion, and respect.

Unfortunately, tragedies can result when there is an adversarial relationship or misunderstanding between law enforcement and the community. Recognizing the diversity and types of bias when serving the community will reduce misunderstandings, confusion, and stereotypes, while promoting knowledge and awareness for the officer. “ We have also taken the Crisis Intervention Systems (CIS) training, offered by the Western Michigan University to equip our officers with the knowledge and skills to handle and deescalate a crisis. Additionally, we train annually on use of force and defensive tactics.

Questions were posed concerning CTPD Body Worn Cameras. Our team has been trained in and does wear a Body Worn Camera during their tour of duty. There is a policy in place on the operation of the cameras.

In addition to body worn cameras, the Township Board graciously allowed us to upgrade our patrol car cameras to a state-of-the-art patrol car camera system with panoramic view.

Let me be clear. I fully trust the men and women who work for our Police Department. Each of them come to work ready to wear our uniform and serve our great community with honor and distinction. We maintain a high level of integrity and work very hard to maintain our public’s trust.

Respectfully, Todd A. Taylor Sr. Chief of Police, Chikaming Township Police Department Harbert, Michigan

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But will rap ever go away? No. There will always be a need for poets.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Antibody testing now being conducted at Spectrum Lakeland Health

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ntibody testing is now available at Spectrum Health Lakeland.

According to a press release, Spectrum Health Lakeland is among the first health systems in the state to begin offering COVID-19 antibody testing to the general public. The antibody testing will help meet a community need and determine how widely the disease has spread through Southwest Michigan.

The antibody, or serology, test is a blood test designed to detect a previous COVID-19 infection through the presence of disease-fighting antibodies. Spectrum Health Lakeland is offering a two-tiered test, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which targets the IgG antibody specific to the virus that causes COVID-19. This test improves accuracy by confirming results using two different mechanisms.

The two-tiered test, available at all Spectrum Health Lakeland laboratories, requires an order from a doctor or advanced practice provider. It is not intended for the diagnosis of an acute COVID-19 infection and should only be used 10 or more days after the onset of symptoms.

Anyone who would like a test should contact their health care provider.

Spectrum Health has the capacity to conduct up to 1,000 antibody tests per day with results typically available within 24 hours. The cost of the test is $45 and

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should be covered by most insurance plans. Once the test is ordered by a provider, patients will need to schedule an appointment with a Lakeland lab by calling 269-556-2810.

Spectrum Health Lakeland cautions that the presence of antibodies does not mean you are immune from contracting COVID-19 At Berrien County Health Department’s weekly Friday, May 28, Facebook live update, Dr. Loren Hamel, Spectrum Health Lakeland president, cautioned that not everyone may need the test.

“We’re seeing about 90% of folks who want it turn out to be negative, so there needs to be a reason,” he said.

An example of those who are in need of the test includes those who’ve been sick and are caring for someone who’s elderly, Hamel said.

Nicki Britten, Berrien County Health Department health officer, said that the percent of tests that are coming back positive for the novel coronavirus have been remaining “relatively flat” as of last week as well – at a “lower level than what was seen in the county in early May.” “We’re definitely seeing a flattening and almost a decrease in our hospital admissions for Covid-19 positive,” Britten said with regards to data trends with Covid-19 cases in the county last week.

Recently, the county has been doing more testing. The county was seeing more

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deaths for the last couple of weeks, and Britten said it was expected to have some of those trends “are going up a little bit.”

“We did have some higher rates of confirmed cases, especially amongst those who are at higher risk - as we had that increase in those cases, we do expect there to be a few weeks’ lag in deaths,” Britten said.

In week or two, Britten said, she predicts there will be a flattening of trends in Covid-19 deaths.

As of Monday, June 1, the health department was reporting 62 confirmed cases, 193 presumed positive cases, 52 deaths, and 483 recoveries in Berrien County.

The Michigan National Guard has recently conducted testing in the county’s long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes, as part of a statewide initiative to do more testing on vulnerable populations.

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ast Thursday, Britten said that 10 teams of three National Guard members did testing in the facilities and she believes that well over 500 specimens were collected of residents and staff, which were then transported to an out of state lab Friday.

Chuck Heit, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department undersheriff, said that the National Guard also recently tested inmates on a voluntary basis in the county jail (see page 10).

Recently, more testing supplies have been made available throughout the state through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), allowing the county to do more spot surveillance in nursing homes this week. Every nursing home will have an “allocation of certain tests that they’ll be able to do to do” when there’s someone who’s suspected to be infected.

Britten said that one reason for the spread of the virus in nursing homes is due to asymptomatic transmission, meaning that staff members who work there may be bringing it in from being out in the community and working other jobs, such as in the grocery store.

Hamel added that caring for the elderly is also “such up close and personal work.”

Beginning May 29, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer removed restrictions for elective procedures at hospitals and health care facilities.

Hamel assured viewers that Spectrum “was ready for that” and that there existed a gray area for what was elective for one individual and what may be deemed “urgent” for another. Nasal surgery, he said, may be urgent if someone can’t breathe at night.

Heit said that all 131 Secretary of State branches in Michigan are also open as of June 1 by appointment only.

For up to date information, visit www. bchdmi.org/COVID19 or Michigan.gov/ coronavirus.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Popular New Buffalo eatery reopens after coronavirus scare

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ohn Dooley, owner of Dooley’s Lake House Pub in New Buffalo, is nothing if not transparent.

So, when one of his employees contracted the novel coronavirus early last month, he chose to announce the reason for the restaurant’s sudden closure on Facebook.

“I got some grief for putting it out there,” Dooley said, adding that the reason for the closure was also recorded on the restaurant’s answering machine.

“I didn’t know any other way than to be straightforward and honest about the whole thing,” he said.

That was Sunday, May 17.

On Thursday, May 28, Dooley’s announced on Facebook that it had reopened once again to curbside pickup and delivery. (The restaurant had recently closed for a brief hiatus in April.)

Dooley said that the restaurant took action as soon as the employee reported feeling ill. He said the employee called Dooley on his day off, reporting that he wasn’t feeling well. The restaurant shut down as a precaution, although Dooley said the Berrien County Health Department later said it wasn’t necessary.

The employee took a COVID-19 test, which came back negative. The next one, though, came back positive.

That was when Dooley’s employees went into quarantine.

Dooley said the employee got better

within three days. He added that being in the food business, it was important that everyone remember that safety comes first.

“I take sanitation very seriously,” he said.

Dooley said he also wants to thank the Berrien County Health Department for being in touch with him and guiding them on what to do.

Earlier in the spring, Michigan was one of the top states with COVID-19 cases, which prompted the restaurant’s initial closure, Dooley said.

“Michigan had been one of the top three, four states,” he said.

Last Saturday, Dooley’s was advertising its Detroit-style pizza, which was available until that night, on Facebook. The following current new summer hours were also posted: Monday and Tuesday, 12 to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, closed; Thursday and Sunday, 12 to 9 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 12 to 10 p.m.

Celebrating its second anniversary in New Buffalo this month, Dooley said Dooley’s Lake House Pub is grateful for the support it’s received from the community - even during its brief closure. Fans of Dooley’s commended the restaurant for doing the right thing in the comment section on the Facebook announcement.

“We’re very grateful for people that support us – trust me, it shows,” Dooley said.

Dooley’s is located at 310 W. Buffalo Street in New Buffalo and can be reached at 269-469-2247.

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PLEASE CONTACT JANINE L. ADAMSKI JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM • (630) 370-0820

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10 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Michigan National Guard assists with voluntary COVID-19 testing for Berrien County Jail, long-term care facilities

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n support of the statewide efforts to increase testing for COVID-19 across Michigan, especially amongst vulnerable populations, Berrien County officials are pleased to report a recent partnership with the Michigan National Guard and Michigan State Police in testing Berrien County Jail inmates and staff as well as residents and staff at long-term care facilities.

According to press release from the Berrien County Health Department, Spectrum Health Lakeland and County of Berrien, the COVID-19 testing taking place in partnership with the Michigan National Guard augments many weeks of prior testing efforts that has already been conducted in a variety of settings in Berrien County, including those at highest risk for the virus.

The Michigan National Guard team conducted voluntary testing for inmates and staff at the Berrien County jail Friday, May 22, which resulted in 95 (or 64%) of the jail population and 22 Sheriff’s Office staff members choosing to be tested.

All 117 tests gathered at the time of mass voluntary testing were shown to be negative for COVID-19.

“I am proud of the diligence of our staff and the way our medical provider has worked with us and the Health Department to provide the safest environment we can for the inmates and staff,” Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey said in the press release.

For many weeks, Berrien County Health Department (BCHD) has been focused on protecting residents of long-term care facilities from potential outbreaks of COVID-19 by

partnering with facilities to test The Berrien County Sheriff’s residents and staff to understand Office continues to work closely risk of COVID-19 in the facility, with the health department to educate staff on best practices monitor inmates at the jail for for infection prevention, and potential symptoms of COVID-19 provide resources including and has received support from personal protective equipment Spectrum Health Lakeland to where needed. While there has conduct testing for inmates as been an ongoing needed. To “We understand the focus placed date, the jail unique challenges on testing for has tested 19 congregate living COVID-19 inmates, with situations, such within longonly two of these as long-term care term care tests resulting facilities, face in facilities in as positive for regard to the spread Berrien County, COVID-19. Both of COVID-19,” said the Michigan of the inmates Melinda Gruber, vice National Guard that tested president continued provided the positive have care services, largest one-day been released Spectrum Health mass testing from the jail, Lakeland. “The safety event to date on either being of our residents Thursday, May released from and team members 28, to augment their out of state remains our highest the testing that hold or on bail, priority. Proactive has already and are still testing is a crucial tool been conducted subject to the in protecting these previously. standard followvulnerable populations up and isolation “We and we are pleased understand procedures. to partner with the the unique National Guard, the challenges Berrien County Health congregate Department, and our living situations, facility partners on this such as longimportant work.” term care nowing the facilities, potential for outbreaks of face in regard to the spread COVID-19 in correctional of COVID-19,” said Melinda facilities, the Berrien County Gruber, vice president continued jail has taken several proactive care services, Spectrum Health steps to ensure that isolation Lakeland. “The safety of our protocols are in place, enhanced residents and team members cleaning schedules are in effect, remains our highest priority. and there are a limited number Proactive testing is a crucial tool of outside visitors allowed in protecting these vulnerable inside the jail. Berrien County populations and we are pleased has also contracted with an to partner with the National outside cleaning company to Guard, the Berrien County provide additional cleaning and Health Department, and sanitizing in the jail. our facility partners on this The Berrien County Health important work.”

K

TRIBUTE TO THREE OAKS FLAG DAY PARADE TO AIR ON WNDU

Department and its partners understand the ongoing impact COVID-19 will have on the vulnerable populations in Berrien County, until which time a vaccination or antiviral treatment is developed. Older adults, those with underlying medical conditions, and individuals living in congregate settings are at a particular elevated risk for severe illness associated with COVID-19.

Nicki Britten, health officer, Berrien County Health Department, said that “to limit the spread of the virus to the greatest extent possible, we continue to work collaboratively with our partner agencies, especially those who serve more vulnerable residents, to ensure that infection prevention education and personal protective equipment/resources are made available, a strategy for ongoing testing is implemented, and that contact tracing and follow-up occurs for all individuals found to be positive for the virus.”

As testing for COVID-19 has expanded even further for all Berrien County residents, anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or shortness of breath, should seek testing. Presently, Berrien County residents can get tested at Spectrum Health Lakeland, InterCare Community Health Network, Walmart in Benton Harbor, and Rite Aid Pharmacy in Bridgman. Pre-screening and appointments are required at all testing sites.

Find more information regarding testing availability at www.bchdmi.org/COVID19.

ecently, the Three Oaks Flag Day Committee shared the following news on its Facebook page with regards to the cancelled Three Oaks Flag Day Parade.

“We would like to share some exciting news.

There will be a tribute to the Three Oaks Flag Day Parade and 2020 seniors televised at 12:30 p.m.

Sunday June 14.

Tune in to WNDU, channel 16 to view the tribute. This has all happened very fast, due to the parade being cancelled, and we are so excited to share this on TV. There will be a slideshow spanning many years, we hope you will enjoy.”

For more updates, visit the Three Oaks Flag Day and Weekend Parade at www. facebook.com/ threeoaksflag dayweekend andparade. — STAFF

— STAFF REPORTS NEW BUFFALO TIMES

BUFFALO TIMES

R

REPORTS NEW

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 11

Friendship Botanic Gardens to offer ‘Yoga in the Gardens’

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to class together. After class, feel free to take a hike on the three miles of wooded trails and main paths that wind throughout the entire Gardens’ landscape.

Gardens.

The class will Experience follow social all-levels yoga in distancing and noa lovely garden contact guidelines setting each during sessions to Thursday morning ensure the safety from 9:30 to and well-being of 10:30 a.m. from all participants.

June 11 to Sept.

Friendship 3. Celebrate and Botanic Gardens April Fallon strikes a pose connect with is located at 2055 nature surrounded by bird songs, East U.S. Hwy. 12, Michigan City. colorful flowers and fresh, summer air.

For more information, call 219-878Classes are $12 each and cash only.

9895 or visit www.friendshipgardens. org, or @FriendshipGardensIndiana Please bring your own mat and meet on Facebook. — STAFF REPORTS NEW at the Welcome Cabin in the FBG BUFFALO TIMES parking lot at 9:20 a.m. to walk down oga in the Gardens, which will be hosted by April Fallon, will begin at 9:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, June 11, at Friendship Botanic

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12 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

St. Mary of the Lake, diocesan parishes resume Mass with limitations

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he Rev. John Peter Ambrose, pastor at St. Mary Catholic Church in New Buffalo, thought it was perfect timing that the day the parish held its first Sunday Mass since Masses were suspended in March was held on Pentecost Sunday.

The day, which is celebrated

by Christians 50 days after Easter, is known as the “birthday of the Church” due to being when the apostles went out among the people and began spreading Jesus’ message – which, in turn, established the beginning of the Church.

Likewise, those who attended St. Mary of the Lake’s outdoor Masses at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30, and at 10 a.m. Sunday, May 31, also felt as though they were establishing a new kind of beginning within the Church after being away for an extended amount of time.

“It’s a new chapter,” Ambrose said.

In addition to the weekend Masses, a wedding was held with at the parish on Saturday with less than 25 people.

On Sunday, parishioners sat on lawn chairs 10 feet apart from each other (excluding ones who were members in the same household) on the parish’s rectory grounds. Masks were required, and parishioners wiped their hands with hand sanitizer before receiving Holy Communion from the eucharistic minister.

Some felt a renewed sense of faith after being gone for a while.

“The first time I received Holy Communion as a child, I was humbled - and I was humbled this morning after not being able to receive it for this long,” Edward Graveline said.

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

“We’ve been livestreaming every week and it’s just been wonderful to be back,” Sherry Tipton.

Barbara Smith admitted that seeing Mass via her computer screen isn’t the same as actually being there.

“It’s different to have Mass in person than livestreaming - even if it’s live,” she said.

Her and her husband, Mark, had been staying in Florida when the various states’ stay at home orders were issued and have been quarantining from their children and grandchildren.

“We’ve really been staying away from everybody, which is hard,” she said, adding that they also had a daughter-in-law in Maryland whose father died from the coronavirus at the beginning of April.

Like other parishes throughout the Diocese of Kalamazoo, St. Mary’s has been livestreaming Masses on its Facebook page since church services across the state were suspended when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued her first “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order in the middle of March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to a diocesan press release, the more than 100,000 Catholics in Southwest Michigan have not been able to participate in Mass at their local parishes since March 20.

Bishop Paul J. Bradley conducted a series of meetings with all members of the clergy, as well as diocesan staff, to formulate a plan for when the churches would re-open to the public. According to a diocesan press release, components of this plan included parishes determining proper capacity of church facilities (not to exceed 25%).

Carol Shubert, member of the choir, was reunited with her sister, niece and great niece on Sunday.

“I haven’t seen them in months, so it was good to see family you’ve been away from,” she said.

The Masses will continue to be livestreamed for those who choose to still not attend. The dispensation from the Sunday obligation to attend Mass is granted to all the faithful through Sept. 6. Those who are sick or symptomatic, as well as the elderly the immunecompromised, are encouraged to stay home.

St. Mary of the Lake also reinstituted weekday Masses Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.

St. Mary of the Assumption in Three Oaks also began holding Masses at 4 p.m. Saturdays and at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday indoors. St. Agnes in Sawyer will be holding Mass at 10:30 a.m.

Sundays in the parking lot.

When weather is inclement, St. Mary of the Lake will be holding Masses in the school gym, with overflow in the school cafeteria. Parishioners must place their chairs at marked X’s, which will be 10 feet apart.

Weddings are limited to 45 guests and funerals are limited to 50 people.

Ambrose said he hopes people will be patient as Masses go on throughout the summer, as it’s an entirely new experience for everyone. He said he “felt tears of joy” seeing members of the Church gathering once again.

“We can look forward to limitations but to keep the faith alive in the community,” he said.

Jennifer Cochran (left) gives Holy Communion to parishoners

Dara Bezhadi served as the lector at the Sunday, May 31, Mass

The Rev. John Peter Ambrose gives a homily at the Sunday, May 31, Mass

Parishoners enjoy an outdoor Mass at St. Mary of the Lake

Parishoners stand on church grounds in front of the alter

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 13

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14 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

Pandemic EBTProgram A new program for families with children who received free or reduced-cost lunches at school The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer Program (P-EBT) provides temporary funding for families that need emergency food during the pandemic.

There is no need to fill out an application for eligible families to receive P-EBT benefits.

Families receiving Food Assistance Program (FAP) benefits will get additional benefits added on their Bridge Card These additional benefits can be used the same way families would normally use their Bridge Card to purchase food items. P-EBT benefits can also be used in the Double Up Food Bucks program.

How much will families get?

For March and April combined: $193.80 for each eligible student will be loaded on the family’s Bridge Card by the end of April.

For May and June combined: $182.40 for each eligible student will be loaded on the family’s Bridge Card on a later date. The schedule for issuing these benefits has not been announced yet.

Families not receiving Food Assistance Program (FAP) benefits will get an EBT card in the mail The EBT card will be issued under the name of the oldest student in the household. Benefits for all eligible school-aged children in the home will be loaded onto this one EBT card.

Before receiving their card, families will get a letter from Michigan Department of Health & Human Services describing how to use their EBT card and other information about food assistance benefits. This EBT card can be used to purchase food items only. Food must be purchased in-person and at a SNAP retailer. The P-EBT card may look different from the Bridge Card, but the card and benefits can be used the same way as the Bridge Card.

How much will families get?

For March and April combined: Families will receive an EBT card in the mail by the end of the first week in May. The card will come pre-loaded with $193.80 per eligible student.

For May and June combined: $182.40 per eligible student will be loaded on the family’s EBT card on a later date. The schedule for issuing these benefits has not been announced yet.

Material produced by the Food Bank Council of Michigan, with information provided by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Michigan Department of Education.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

LaPorte County Fair cancelled

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BY STAN MADDUX

he LaPorte County Fair is waiting until 2021 to celebrate its 175th year due to concerns about COVID-19.

The fair, which was scheduled for July 12-18, is cancelled, officials with Indiana’s oldest county fair announced Friday, May 28.

Fair manager Don Stoner said the decision was extremely difficult but one that had to be made given the risk involved and safety precautions that would have to be imposed and followed.

“Part of the fair is you’re gathering with friends.

It’s a yearly event. A lot of people, that’s when they get together. To try and make them stand social distanced apart, it is just not possible,” he said.

“After reviewing federal, state and local guidelines and knowing how quickly and easily the COVID-19 virus spreads in large groups of people the board did not feel it would be possible nor prudent to have the fair at this time,” said Steve Mrozinski, president of the LaPorte County Agricultural Association, which operates the fair.

People who have purchased tickets for the fair or any of the grandstand events, such as the Toby Keith concert, will be contacted in the coming weeks on how those tickets will be handled, fair officials said.

Keith, who has a long string of No. 1 country hits like “How Do You Like Me Now” and “Beer for My Horses,” was scheduled to perform July 16.

Talks have been occurring with handlers for Keith since the COVID-19 outbreak in the event the fair had to be cancelled.

“There’s something being worked out right now.

We’re still working on all of those questions and scenarios,” Stoner said.

The decision comes a week after the LaPorte County branch of Purdue Extension chose not to have its 4-H members and volunteers take part in the fair with their exhibits and competitions.

“We’re fairgoers when we’re not putting one on so it’s going to be a different summer,” Stoner said.

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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Construction of new hospital resumes after COVID-19 scare

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BY STAN MADDUX

THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 15

Las familias con niños que recibieron almuerzos a precio reducido o gratis en la escuela califican para el nuevo programa

onstruction of the new LaPorte Hospital resumed Monday, June 1, after the job site was shutdown May 19 due to COVID-19.

Joe Forsthoffer, a spokesman for the general contractor Robins & Morton out of Birmingham, Alabama, said about 60 of the over 200 workers tested positive for the virus.

Forsthoffer said returning workers under Centers for Disease Control guidelines had to produce certification they tested negative or spent 14 days in self isolation without symptoms during the last 72 hours.

He said workers testing positive must show they no longer had symptoms in the last 72 hours 10 days after being first diagnosed.

Forsthoffer said all returning workers are now required to have their temperatures checked daily and to fill out a health screening questionnaire to make sure they haven’t developed symptoms or had recent contact with someone exhibiting symptoms.

He also said workers must wear face coverings.

“We’ve implemented additional health and safety measures to provide an added level or assurance for everyone working on the project. Those steps are in addition to the extensive protocols all following CDC guidance that were already in place,” Forsthoffer said.

Work on the $125 million hospital at State and Tyler streets was suspended when four workers exhibiting symptoms tested positive for the virus.

Six more workers exhibiting signs of being infected soon came back with positive test results.

SERVPRO of LaPorte County spent 48 hours last week cleaning and disinfecting the site.

The hospital is still on target for completion in late summer or early fall.

I don’t feel that emotion is a good thing to have in combat. You must be cold.

— Conor McGregor

Material producido por el Food Bank Council of Michigan con información del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Michigan.

Esta institución es un proveedor de igualdad de oportunidades.

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16 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

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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Heavy lifting involved. 269-756-2571 or jamietreephilosophy@gmail.com.

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The Pokagon Band targets June 15 to reopen its Four Winds Casinos

he Pokagon Gaming Authority announced last week that it is targeting Monday, June 15, to reopen its Four Winds Casino locations in Michigan and Indiana.

The Four Winds Casinos Operations Team has been working closely with the Pokagon Gaming Authority, the Pokagon Gaming Commission and the Pokagon Health Task Force to develop a reopening plan. Pending approval of the plan from the Pokagon Gaming Commission and notification to the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), Four Winds Casinos will proceed to reopen. The Pokagon Gaming Commission hearing is currently scheduled for June 8.

“We’ve been closely monitoring the data related to the spread of COVID-19, consulting with medical experts, and evaluating the potential impact the virus could have on our community and employees. Although we are a Sovereign Nation, we’ve also considered recommendations from the Federal Government, Centers for

Disease Control (CDC), and Governors from both Michigan and Indiana, before setting June 15 as our target date for reopening. It is possible that this date could change due to a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, but we will continue to monitor the situation as we work towards this reopening goal,” Matthew Wesaw, tribal council chairman and CEO of Pokagon Gaming Authority, said.

Frank Freedman, chief operating officer of Four Winds Casinos, added, “In anticipation of finalizing the details and receiving approval of our reopening plan from the Pokagon Gaming Authority and Pokagon Gaming Commission, we’ve started the process to recall Four Winds Casino employees. We look forward to sharing the details of our reopening plan once they are approved so our guests know what to expect and have an enjoyable entertainment experience when visiting one of our Four Winds Casino locations once we reopen.”

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians’ sovereignty was reaffirmed

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under legislation signed into law by President Clinton in September 1994.

The Pokagon Band is dedicated to providing community development initiatives such as housing, education, family services, medical care and cultural preservation for its more than 5,700 citizens.

The Pokagon Band’s 10-county service area includes four counties in Southwestern Michigan and six in Northern Indiana. Its main administrative offices are located in Dowagiac, Michigan, with a satellite office in South Bend, Indiana. In 2007, it opened Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo, followed by Four Winds Hartford in 2011, Four Winds Dowagiac in 2013 and Four Winds South Bend in January 2018.

The Pokagon Band operates a variety of businesses via Mno-Bmadsen, its non-gaming investment enterprise.

More information is available at www.pokagonband-nsn.gov, www. fourwindscasino.com and www.mnobmadsen.com. — STAFF REPORTS NEW

BUFFALO TIMES

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 17

PUBLIC NOTICES

BCHA, VILLAGE OF BERRIEN SPRINGS WORKING TO KEEP ICE CREAM SOCIAL SAFE

requested by calling City Hall at 269-4691500.

T

he Berrien County Historical Association and the Village of Berrien Springs are currently working together to modify the OldFashioned Fourth of July Ice Cream Social to make it a safe and engaging event in an age of social health concerns.

The event committee has met to review the existing plan and is working with the appropriate authorities to see if the Historical Association can still host it with modifications. Among the possible suggestions that are being considered are: • shortening the event to run from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.; • single entry and exit points to create a consistent and safe flow through the grounds; • pre-packaging food items before they are brought to the seller’s booth; • encouraging eye-shopping and allowing vendors to handle merchandise only; and • creating concurrent on-line opportunities to supplement the in-person event.

It is always the goal to provide a safe and engaging space for members, friends, and visitors and this event is no exception. As experts and leaders weigh on the future of this program, BCHS will continue to keep the public updated.

At this time, BCHS is remaining optimistic and therefore is still accepting vendor and sponsorship applications. BCHS is accepting vendor applications on a first come-first serve basis, as the number of groups on the grounds may need to be limited. Those who are interested should email info@ berrienhistory.org.

This annual tradition draws hundreds of visitors to the History Center at Courthouse Square to celebrate our nation’s birth. Stump speeches, vendors, music, and more await guests during the event, providing an exciting family-friendly experience. — STAFF

REPORTS NEW BUFFALO TIMES

The taxing unit publishing this notice and identified below has complete authority to establish the number of mills to be levied from within its authorized millage rate

REQUEST FOR SEALED BIDS TO PURCHASE 435 S. WHITTAKER STREET The City of New Buffalo is requesting sealed bids until 3:30 PM EST on Friday, June 19, 2020 for the sale of the building located at 435 S. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo, MI 49117. The building has 4,800 square feet of retail space on .12 acres of property located at 435 S. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo, MI 49117.

Previous bidders will be offered an opportunity to rebid. Bids should contain a proposal for the intended use of the building. Bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope “Purchase of 435 S. Whittaker Street.”

The sale of the property shall include a deed restriction that an occupancy permit must be obtained within one year of purchase or the City will be allowed to reacquire the property at the original purchase price. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of 60 days and the City reserves the right to reject any or all bids and waive any irregularities in the bidding process.

AMY FIDLER, CITY CLERK

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BERRIEN COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2020-2021 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET The Township of New Buffalo will hold a public hearing on the proposed 20202021 fiscal year budget and the proposed millage rates for 2020 on Monday, June 15, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Hwy., New Buffalo, MI 49117.

THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. THE PROPOSED MILLAGE RATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Operating Public Safety Parks Public Safety

.3967 Mills .3847 Mills .2337 Mills 1.3853 Mills

The proposed budget will be adopted at a regular meeting of the New Buffalo Township Board immediately following the public hearing. Action on the 2020 millage will also be taken at that meeting.

A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Hwy., New Buffalo, MI 49117.

2019 WATER QUALITY REPORT Please be advised that the 2019 Water Quality Report is available online at www. cityofnewbuffalo.org/downloads/2019_ water_ quality_report.pdf.

A paper copy will not be mailed unless

auxiliary aids or services should contact the New Buffalo Township Board by writing or calling the following: New Buffalo Township Clerk, 17425 Red Arrow Highway, New Buffalo, Michigan, 49117, 269-469-1011.

This notice is posted in compliance with the Open Meetings Act, Public Act 267 of 1976, as amended, (MCL 41.72a(2)(3)) and the Americans With Disabilities Act. The New Buffalo Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon five days notice to the New Buffalo Township Board.

Individuals with disabilities requiring

This notice is published by the: New Buffalo Township Board 17425 Red Arrow Highway New Buffalo, MI 49117 269-469-1011

NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS SCHOOLS OF CHOICE Enrollment Openings for the 2020-2021 School Year Kindergarten - 5 Sixth Grade - 3 Seventh Grade - 8 Eighth Grade - 2 Ninth Grade - 3 Tenth Grade - 2 Eleventh Grade - 2 Twelfth Grade - 1 Registration: June 8-22, 2020 Contact: Email: yhomolka@nbas.org Phone: 269 469-6010

NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS NOTICE OF BOARD OF EDUCATION VACANCY Please be advised the Board of Education for New Buffalo Area Schools will have one (1) four (4) year term vacancy on the ballot of November 3, 2020. Deadline for interested candidates is 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, to file an Affidavit of Identity and School District Nominating Petition (or a non-refundable fee of $100.00 in lieu of a petition). The affidavit and petition (or fee) must be filed in the County Clerk’s Office at the Courthouse in St. Joseph, MI. Please contact Kristi Aubrey, Berrien County Elections Administrator, 811 Port Street, St. Joseph, MI 49085, or call 269 983‐7111, ext. 8368, for necessary paperwork.

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18 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 19

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This spacious townhome features a huge 48' x 21' Great Room with two terraces and views of both downtown New Buffalo and Lake Michigan.

Master suite features Terrace overlooking the waterfront, fireplace, jacuzzi & steam shower.

A once in a lifetime opportunity to own the famous ''Whittaker House'' building. This historic building is located in the center of the New Buffalo Central Business District with 2,625 sq. ft. of prime retail space.

The building also offers a 1,150 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, second floor apartment with recently renovated kitchen, baths and floors. Features include new electric, new a/c, basement and 3 private parking spaces. This ia a great opportunity to own a New Buffalo landmark!

Will Schauble

Jack Wehner

Klaus Nyman

Lauren Potts

Jason Sutton

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269.932.8835

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269.326.2473 2 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117.

At World Properties Michigan, LLC, a subsidiary of At World Properties, LLC. | At World Properties Indiana, LLC, a subsidiary of At World Properties, LLC.

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20 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

OBITUARIES Miriam Eucce

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M

iriam was born over 100 years ago in Paxton, IL, and passed away on May 29, 2020, in Buchanan, MI, where she has lived since 2018.

Mickey grew up in Chicago, resided for many years in Hammond, IN, and moved to New Buffalo, MI, where she lived for over 50 years.

She was married for 53 years to Richard Edward Eucce, who precedes her in death along with a son Richard Steven Eucce, and an infant daughter.

Survivors include: Judith Kleinschmidt (William) of Highland, IN; Dennis of Hammond, IN, (Wife Marsha deceased); Bruce (Marianne) of Bakersfield, CA; Steven (Kate) of Bakersfield, CA; Andrea van der Laan (Boyd) of Niles, MI; Daughter-in-law Kathryn Eucce (Son Richard deceased).

She was loved and will be missed by 18 grandchildren: Bill, Amy, Brad, R.J., Jennifer, Dena, Renee, Jeff, Eric, Erin, B.J., Chris, Meghann, Robin, Ryan, Ashley, K.C., and Boyd: many great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

While growing up in Chicago, Mickey attended Hyde Park High School, where she was a member of the Girl’s Chorus, GAA, and Forum, “an organization for civic minded, world-situation-conscious people; an astute unit that had as its members intelligent, thinking persons.” She went on to attend Cook County School of Nursing and met and married Richard Eucce in 1939 while working at the A&P. Among her most cherished childhood memories were playing near the museum of Science and Industry and Stagg Field, where the first nuclear reactor was built underneath the

University of Chicago’s football stadium. She ice skated on the mid-way where the World’s Fair had once stood. Mickey was a bit of a “tomboy”, rode a motorcycle in her teens, and before she was married told Richard she could drive, took his car to visit relatives, and drove it into a ditch. He married her anyway.

Mickey and Richard moved to Hammond in 1953 where she was a member of The Hyde Park Methodist Church, The United Methodist Woman’s Club, The United Methodist Church Choir, and a Troop Leader for Girl Scouts of America. In 1977 they retired and moved permanently to New Buffalo, MI, where she became a member of The First United Church of New Buffalo (now known as Water’s Edge), the United Methodist Woman’s Club, The United Methodist Church Choir, the New Buffalo Service League, the New Buffalo Yacht Club, and Sunset Shores Association. She cashiered at The Wheel Inn Restaurant in New Buffalo for many years while in her 80’s.

Mickey was an involved, loving, and supportive mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother. Her home was a magnet where she delighted in the presence of her family and strove to make each visit a special one. She traveled coast-to-coast to visit family, and spent many winters in Mc Allen, Texas, with extended family and friends. Throughout her life she was a caregiver for anyone who needed her – a true Florence Nightingale. She was also always ready to engage someone – anyone - in a game of Skip-Bo and was impossible to beat – even in her 101st year.

To know Mickey was to love her. She was patient and kind, understanding and forgiving, and could brighten up the room with her smile and sunny disposition. She will be sorely missed, and we are beyond lucky to have had her in our lives for so many years A celebration of life memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Buchanan Meadows- Mickey Eucce Memorial, 809 Carrol St., Buchanan, MI 49107 to purchase a bench in her memory. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sommerfeld Chapel, New Buffalo.

Those who would like to leave a condolence or memory for the family to reflect on may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 21

HOROSCOPE JUNE 4-10, 2020

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

Take some time to review your finances.

You may be spending more than you realize.

There is a part of you that feels the need to hold back on purchasing items you don't necessarily need, but you understand the value of having extra in case family or friends need to use them.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

It is important to get some friend time in this week. Family life has been very demanding this year for Leo, and your professional life has taken up any extra time you have managed to find. Now you're going to have the opportunity to reconnect with friends and catch up on all the latest.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Certain aspects of your home life could be inhibiting you from getting closer to that someone special. Don't let your daily routines interfere with taking time to connect with others. Perhaps you can let some chores slide in order to have more one on one time with loved ones.

Release your unwanted possessions, and get rid of outdated clothing.

Clear out clutter, and create a space that you can be productive in. Once you start going through things, and you start releasing items that have kept you emotionally tied to the past, your energy levels will return.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

Taking the lead, and speaking up is not always easy for Virgo, but you are going to have to set things straight and keep the boundaries reinforced. People often overlook details you never miss. Be up front about the things you notice. It just may secure you that raise or promotion you want.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

You will be feeling very introverted, and more retrospective this week. There are things you may have been boisterous about in the past, but now you are keeping a tight lid on your situation. You are ready to do any heavy lifting on your own, and will make your own way, using your inner strength.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 As much as you like to keep things all Even Steven, there are some things that always seem unfair. You cannot make everybody happy, and you cannot be the peace maker if others prefer to fight. Take the higher road by staying out of it. Expand beyond the situation by turning the balancing act inward.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

Turn that nurturing inward. Schedule a massage, or a day at the spa, and get recharged. It's okay to take a day for grooming and pampering. Cancer forgets how important that down time is. They stay so busy, they forget to take a night off.

You will realize that you and another are connected in a way that is mutually beneficial.

You may think that you are just coworkers, but ultimately the two of you create a team, that needs cooperation to succeed.

Know that when the team succeeds, you benefit. Give more, get more.

You will be filled with a lot of vigor and creative energy now. You will be blowing through the chore list like you're working with seven clones. Wether you are moving furniture, painting, or just doing basic cleaning, once you get started, you will be amazed by how fast and how efficient you are.

Get creative with financial situations.

Don't get stuck thinking there is only one way to organize your documents or payment methods. You are entering a very beneficial time monetarily but you have to go after it, and work with it in ways that seem unconventional. Change is good.

When it comes to living arrangements it's all about chemistry, and getting into a flow of things. Don't let other people dominate your negotiating, or interfere with your opportunity to move things in a new direction. This is the time to cut ties, and move into a space or environment that inspires you.

The less I have, the freer I am to do whatever I want to do.

— Lauryn Hill

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22 THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020

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