July 1, 2021

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

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LIFE IN NATURE AND THE SANDY SHORES

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 26, volume 80

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Thursday, July 1, 2021

Dry fields now waterlogged in spots PAGE 4

Starbucks opens in downtown New Buffalo PAGE 6

Friends of New Troy Community Center reopens to the public, plans summer of activities PAGE 7 New Buffalo school board hears about potential ‘student advocate’ for at-risk students, approves amended 2020-2021 budget PAGE 9

FIRST CLASS...

Train passengers caught in the crossfire during Hesston ‘Civil War Days’ PAGES 12-13

RIBBON OFFICIALLY CUT AT THE NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING — PAGE 5 —

PHOTO OF MEMBERS OF THE NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

Berrien County Health Department announces new interim health officer CURRENT HEALTH OFFICER TO TRANSITION OUT OF DEPARTMENT JULY 9

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he Berrien County Board of Commissioners Personnel and Human Services Committee have advised that a new interim health officer is appointed, after the current health officer, Nicki Britten, announced her departure from the Berrien County Health Department effective July 9th, 2021.

The full Board of Commissioners anticipates approving current deputy health officer Courtney Davis to step in to serve as interim health officer in early July, while the county conducts a formal hiring process to fill the position permanently.

Britten, who served as health officer for the Berrien County Health Department since January 2017, will be transitioning to Spectrum Health Lakeland, into the position of director of population health. Britten spent 12 years at the Berrien County Health Department, providing leadership during several public health crises, all while continuously striving towards improving health outcomes for all residents.

“Nicki showed tremendous strength in leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic for the ultimate benefit of the health and safety of our communities,” said Berrien County Board of Health Chair Peg Kohring.

“We sincerely thank her for the many years of service she dedicated to this

department and wish her the best in her pursuit of new opportunities.”

Stepping into the role on an interim basis, current deputy health officer Courtney Davis has been with the department since July 2017. Davis has more than 15 years of public health education and experience, with a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan, and experience at the Kalamazoo County Health Department prior to coming to Berrien County.

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

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 FLANIGAN 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

Dry fields now waterlogged in spots

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BY STAN MADDUX

armers in the area were hoping for rain before recent storms left their once thirsty crops waterlogged especially in low areas holding more standing water.

Now, they’re hoping for things to dry out before it rains again to avoid further crop losses.

“We’ve had an ample amount. We don’t need any more,” said Ken Seifert, who raises corn and soybeans on about 2,000 acres in Three Oaks and Galien.

“There could be more extreme losses if the water doesn’t start dropping a little more quickly,” said Matt Schafer, a corn and soybean producer in La Porte County.

Rainfall totals ranging from three to eight inches were common in southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana over the weekend.

There was also heavy rain the previous weekend in both parts of the states.

Ironically, there were areas of Michigan and Indiana considering to be going through a drought prior to the rainfall.

Conditions were not quite as dry in this area but crops were starting to need to water.

Many farmers are now pumping water from once low drainage ditches to help alleviate standing water from their saturated fields.

“It was time for some rain but we don’t need any more rain for a couple

of weeks,” Seifert said.

“We were kind of always on the edge of being too dry and now we’re probably past being on the edge of too wet,” Schafer said.

Schafer said some of his crops might not survive or suffer from stunted growth depending on how quickly the standing water recedes.

The crops behind in their growth will need a spell of hot, dry weather to fully recover.

Seifert described a similar situation in his corn and soybean fields, which received up to two inches of precipitation and close to an equal amount the previous weekend.

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e said all of the storms combined brought about twice as much rain as his crops actually needed.

“Two inches would have been ideal,” he said.

Seifert said he considers himself lucky, though, because the rainfall amounts were much heavier in some of the nearby areas like Baroda.

Schafer said it’s been dry enough that some farmers were already irrigating prior to the storms.

He was about to water his crops before the clouds opened up.

At one point during the recent storms, Schafer said there was even flooding in some of his fields on flat ground.

“The rain came down so fast it took a while to soak in,” he said.

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 7PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

The charm of fame is so great that we like every object to which it is attached, even death.

— Blaise Pascal

BERRIEN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE RECORD LOBBIES TO REOPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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he Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Records Lobbies in both St Joseph and Niles will re-open to the public without an appointment starting Tuesday, July 6.

Individuals will no longer need to make an appointment for the following services: Firearms Purchase Permits, Sex Offender Registry for those who need verify that month, Fingerprinting, and Copy of police reports or other public records.

Hours for the St. Joseph Office, located at 919 Port Street in St. Joseph, Michigan, are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. No CPL fingerprinting will be provided Mondays, as fingerprinting will only be available until 4 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday.

Hours for the Niles Office, located at 1205 Front Street in Niles, Michigan, are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. No fingerprinting services will be provided at the Niles Office. — STAFF REPORTS

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com Fire Chief Jamie Flick reflects on the new building at the ribbon-cutting

THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 Members of the New Buffalo Township Board, the fire department and other supporters prepare to cut the ribbon on the new Public Safety Building

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Mike Zebell stands in front of his handcrafted table in the conference room

Ribbon officially cut at the New Buffalo Township Public Safety Building

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

oting that it had been completed over a twoyear period, New Buffalo Township Fire Chief Jamie Flick said he wondered if the New Buffalo Township Public Safety Building “was ever going to come to be.”

Nine months ago, members of the New Buffalo Township Fire Department were standing, shovels in the ground, in almost the same spot where a small crowd had gathered inside of the completed building located at 18959 U.S. Highway 12 for its official ribbon-cutting Tuesday, June 22.

“I’m really excited about being here,” Flick, who oversaw the building’s construction, said.

Flick thanked members of the New Buffalo Township Board for “allowing this project to come to be” and township residents for their “continued support.”

He drew attention to members of the township fire department who were present that day: assistant fire chief Mike Plis, Mike Zebell, Tim Gould, Joe and Noah Sharum and Andrew Flick.

At a Monday, June 21, meeting of the township board, Flick reported that the fire department should “slowly start moving things over” into the building that week and, if everything is finalized, the

department will be operating out of there July 1.

Flick said the fire and police departments have always had a “good working relationship,” something he hopes will only continue in the new building.

“I hope the public enjoys this building as much as all of us will.”

New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that she hopes the building will “serve our area for many years to come.”

“We’re proud to have such wonderful space here for the people who keep us safe every day,” she said.

Heit said the building is more than a police and fire station.

“This building will house the brave men and women that stand between us and danger and contains the people that answer our call for help whenever we need it and rescue us when we’re in harm’s way…I feel such gratitude when I look out at these people who choose to protect and serve,” she added.

Heit acknowledged the following trustees of the New Buffalo Township Board: Judith Zabicki, Jack Rogers, Patty Iazzetto, and Pete Rahm. On behalf of the board, she thanked the taxpayers, who

Chris Brooks and Tom Smith present a plaque to the New Buffalo Township

Berrien County Undersheriff Chuck Heit speaks to the crowd at the ribbon-cutting

errien County Undersheriff Chuck Heit said the sheriff’s department has a contract with New Buffalo Township, with five deputies in total (Lt. Ryan Sullivan is the head of the patrol) providing “dedicated coverage to the township.” He said that they have a “great working relationship with the Tribal Police,” which will only continue in the new building.

Tom Smith of Skillman Corporation and architect Chris Brooks of Brooks Architectural presented a plaque to Heit in commemoration of the special day.

“Chris and I thank the community

for your trust,” Smith said, adding that everyone who was involved with it made it a “fun project for us.”

Brooks also thanked everyone for trusting him and his firm “to assist in this project – I enjoyed working with everyone here.”

County Commissioner Ezra Scott, who was also present at the ceremony, echoed everyone’s appreciation for the support and thanked “everyone for being here.”

Also included inside of the building are bays for fire trucks in the front of the building, a garage for the police vehicles with five bays (two for the township patrol vehicles, two for the Tribal Police and one for a South County car) toward the back, a conference room (which includes a table made of locust wood crafted by Zebell), an office for the firefighters, a meeting room which can also be used as a command center, a police interview room, and a locker and a laundry room.

The public is invited to take a tour of the public safety building during an open house, which will be held at the township’s annual Public Safety Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 1.

A large meeting room is located inside of the new building

Township Supervisor Michelle Heit speaks to the crowd at the ribbon-cutting

“enabled us to build this building.”

Bill Lux, chief of police for the Pokagon Tribal Police, said he was grateful to have been “involved in this building and to be in this building.”

The building will house the New Buffalo Township Fire Department, which also works out of Station 1 on Clay Street, and the New Buffalo Township patrol of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department.

Offices for the Pokagon Tribal Police and the South County Patrol of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department are also located there.

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

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Starbucks opens in downtown New Buffalo

BY STAN MADDUX

tarbucks has opened in downtown New Buffalo and already seems to be a major driver of traffic on Whittaker Street.

The owner of the local coffee shop in the Starbuck chain is Marc Danesi.

Danesi is the longtime proprietor of another major downtown New Buffalo attraction, the Stray Dog Bar & Grill.

He described the flow of customers since opening Wednesday, June 23, as “unbelievable.

Overwhelming.”

Starbucks is inside the former home of The Clipper Ship Gallery.

Danesi said he had been negotiating with Starbucks about opening a location in New Buffalo for eight years.

“We just thought coffee was a good fit for here. So far, we’re on the right path,” he said.

He purchased and repurposed the two-story building that is now home to Starbucks.

The rest of the structure will contain two other soon-to-be-announced retailers along with apartments on the second floor once the ongoing renovation is completed.

A lot of people coming to New Buffalo on a regular basis from out of town were shocked and excited to discover a Starbucks downtown, which is made up

primarily of independently-owned retailers.

“I was so surprised. New Buffalo is like such a small town and Starbucks is a big corporation,” said Claire Bettag,18.

Bettag, who was visiting with her family from St. Charles, Illinois, ordered a strawberry flavored, noncoffee beverage then had a seat at one of the indoor tables.

“I think this is one of the nicest Starbucks I’ve been to,” she said.

Some downtown business owners are upset about Starbucks judging by social media posts.

They fear established businesses offering coffee will suffer from losing customers to Starbucks and it opens the door to more chain establishments coming and competing with other existing businesses.

Danesi believes Starbucks will become an anchor store bringing more people into downtown for all business owners to share.

He also pointed out he and his 30 employees reside locally and a few chains like Subway and Coldwell Banker already exist downtown.

Starbucks is open year-round from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Danesi said business hours could expand at some point in the future.

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The sides and back of the Starbucks building also features a rural painting on the exterior by an artist from Chicago.

The mural includes images of stars and a sun with a happy face.

A new concrete patio was also poured behind the Starbucks as a public gathering place to have a coffee or ice cream cone and patronize a farmers’ market.

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he farmers’ market will be inside a redesigned and upgraded storage facility.

Mick Klug Farm out of St. Joseph will operate the market offering fresh produce and other products like flowers and cider five days a week.

Danesi said the Starbucks is in a strategic area in the center of downtown with heavy foot traffic to bring more activity to the central business district.

Starbucks also has an app informing travelers of the nearest location.

“If they come to New Buffalo for the first time then maybe they come back again. Maybe they stay for dinner. Maybe they go to a local shop and by some clothing or grab a souvenir. All of that. Just trying to grow and create a buzz for the downtown,” he said.

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

Mike Metz cleans up the area around the gazebo located in the back

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Volunteers Aubrey Beck, Ben Taylor, Victoria Petroff, Lorraine Hanover, Mike Metz, Katy Harington, and Terry Hanover in front of the Allan Boyd Memorial Gazebo

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Volunteers clean up the gazebo area in the back of the center

Friends of New Troy Community Center reopens to the public, plans summer of activities

olunteers gathered Saturday, June 26, to clean up the inside and outside of a place that has become a thriving community gathering space: the Friends of New Troy Community Center.

The center, which has been closed since March 18, 2020, due to Covid, offically reopened to the public July 1.

According to Victoria Petroff, vice president of the Friends of New Troy (FoNT) Board of Directors, the library has reopened, and yoga classes have resumed. Skybird Yoga’s founder Elizabeth Nuti (who’s also a trustee on the board of directors) offers in-person classes weekly in FONT’s Community Room Fridays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays in the mornings.

The center’s new bathrooms will also be seen by the public, as their huge renovation just got underway when the center closed.

“So much has been done in the building that nobody has seen yet – and we’re still working on things,” Petroff said.

The library is the next big project.

Petroff said the plan is to turn it more into a media center “to help accommodate the folks around here with lack of Wi-Fi and computers.” She added that there’s free Wi-Fi that was updated throughout the building.

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

“It’s an attempt to engage local famers Also returning are summertime events.

- those who have roadside stands, those First up is the Strawberry Social, which who don’t generally attend farmers will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, markets - and try to get them to come July 11. The event, which is free to the out and display what they have but also public, is put on by Boyd family. The that people know where they are,” Petroff family donated the gazebo behind the said, adding that the market will serve as center to FONT in honor of Allan Boyd, a “central location once a month” to give a longtime resident who passed away the famers exposure. in 2017. Brett Boyd of Classic Catering The market will also feature artisans and Events will be making refreshments and live music, as of strawberry well as games for shortcake and children. ice cream and The market is members of the being spearheaded band Down by

by Aubrey Beck, the Dock will be who said that performing in the vendors are still gazebo. being sought.

New this year Interested vendors will be the FONT can download an Market, a Friday application on night market that FoNT’s website. will debut from For the first 4 to 8 p.m. July market, Classic 23. Describing Catering will be it as “more bringing back than a farmers taco specials market,” Petroff from the former said the market Old Mill Run is an attempt to restaurant that combine elements used to be located of the center’s in New Troy. The indoor flea Lorraine Hanover works on the landscaping restaurant was markets. at the gazebo located in back of the center

owned by Brett Boyd and featured a taco night.

“It’s kind of became a local legend…

People lined up down the street waiting for tacos,” she said.

All proceeds from the FoNT Market will benefit the Community Center.

Petroff said FoNT began as a group of citizens who wanted to “preserve the building,” which was the former elementary school.

“They knew they wanted to do something to invest in the community and make sure the building stayed as a source of historical relevance and a community gathering place,” she said.

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ow, Petroff said, the current board of directors have taken it a step further.

Throughout the closure, members have started “restructuring,” which will make it easier to apply for grants.

“We can give you a plan for the future now, we can give what our ideas are and aspirations and plans for engagement, what our expectations are of volunteers,” she said.

Friends of New troy is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. The community center is located at 13372 California Road in New Troy, Michigan. More information can be found on the newly revamped website, www.friendsofnewtroy.org.

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

LCSO to perform ‘Legendary Showtunes & More’ concert at Friendship Botanic Gardens

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he La Porte County Symphony Orchestra (LCSO) will perform “Legendary Showtunes & More” at Friendship Botanic Gardens (FBG) for a magical and memorable evening for families and adults from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, July 25.

Concluding its 48th season, the LCSO is a pillar of the performing arts in the area, serving audiences across seven counties. On Sunday, July 25, the LCSO, along with interim music director and conductor, Chuck Steck, will join together and perform under FBG’s Celebration Pavilion for an evening full of Broadway and movie tunes. 2020 Hoosier STAR winners, Alyse Flores (Adult Division) and Julia Larson (Youth Division), will also be performing. Food and drink will be available for purchase at this joint fundraiser for FBG and the LCSO. “We cannot wait to perform again at Friendship Gardens,” said LCSO Executive Director Tim King. “The Pavilion is exactly the right kind of venue for a summer performance. We really enjoyed the experience there last summer and look forward to a continued relationship with Friendship Gardens.”

Advanced ticket purchase is available at www. friendshipbotanicgardens.org.

Tickets will also be available for purchase at the FBG entrance gate the day of the event, cash or card accepted. General admission for adults is $50; 17 and under are free. Gates open at 6 p.m.,

with music starting promptly at 7 p.m.

This is the second LCSO concert at Friendship Botanic Gardens.

“We couldn’t be happier that the La Porte County Symphony is joining us again this year for a continual concert series,” said FBG Board President John Leinweber. “The LCSO’s quality and dedication to symphonic music is beyond exceptional.”

Chairs will be available for use in the Celebration Meadow; however, guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. No outside food or drink allowed in the venue.

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oth the LCSO and FBG ask that guests practice socially distanced seating and wear face coverings when it is not possible to stay at least 6 feet away from others outside of their own family and friends.

For more information about the LCSO and other upcoming concerts, visit www.lcso.net.

Friendship Botanic Gardens is located at 2055 East U.S. Highway 12, Michigan City. For more information call (219) 878-9885, send an email to events@ friendshipbotanicgardens. org or visit www. friendshipbotanicgardens.org.

— STAFF REPORTS

SPORTS From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

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ext week when I sit down to write my column, it will be the Fourth of July.

The year, and the baseball season, will be half over. The hockey and basketball playoffs are nearing the finals, and believe it or not, the football season is only a couple of months away.

For those who don’t love any of the big four professional sports, the Olympics begin in July and the World Cup is on the horizon for 2022. Yes sports fans, no matter where you live or who you root for, it’s a great time to be a fan.

Of course, I’m a sports fan, and being from Chicago makes this time of the year even more exciting for me. The White Sox remain in first place and even though they had another tough week, they have a favorable schedule for the next couple of weeks.

The Cubs are in a difficult part of their schedule and have fallen three games behind but whichever way the team goes, it’s going to be an exciting time. A couple of takeaways from this past week in baseball.

Seattle pitcher Hector Santiago became the first pitcher to get ejected for using a foreign substance on the ball since they started to enforce the rule last week. Look for a lot more offense in the future.

Speaking of more offense, how about ex Cub Kyle Schwarber. Kyle had twelve homers in his last twelve games to move into a tie for the home run lead in the National League. I’m still dumbfounded that the Cubs let Kyle go. Anyway, I wish

him the best, he’s my favorite ex Cub. The NBA playoffs are a thing of beauty. All four remaining teams have amazing skills and no matter who makes it to the finals, they’re going to be great.

Milwaukee and Phoenix are in the drivers seats but Atlanta and the LA Clippers are putting up quite a battle. I hadn’t paid a lot of attention to the playoffs until recently, but my oh my these guys can play. It’s fun seeing new faces in the playoffs for a change.

I believe the Clippers, Atlanta, and Phoenix have never won an NBA championship and Milwaukee hasn’t won in fifty years. In the near future, it will be nice seeing the Bulls advance in the playoffs.

Montreal and Tampa Bay are in the finals for the Stanley Cup and playoff hockey is really intense and exciting.

Montreal has a great history, but hasn’t won the Cup since 1993. Tampa Bay, on the other hand, is the defending champion.

My picks are Milwaukee in the NBA and Tampa Bay in the NHL, but anyone of the remaining teams are capable of winning it all. Finally, the Bears season should be fascinating with the hope of their new quarterback Justin Fields and the hope that Aaron Rodgers doesn’t play for the Packers.

Butch Bellah said, “Someone has to be the best; the champion; the winner. Why not you?” Indeed, why not?

Refuse hate. Talk to you next week.

Peace, love, and happiness.

It’s not a game. You can’t play boxing.

— Gervonta Davis

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

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SCHOLASTICS

New Buffalo school board hears about potential ‘student advocate’ for at-risk students, approves amended 2020-2021 budget

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embers of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education heard a presentation about a potential student advocate position at their Monday, June 28, meeting.

Middle school principal Bradley Brunner (who had prerecorded a presentation), said that a “growing population of students,” particularly during the pandemic, is “going to have a lasting consequence for years in our secondary building:” the growth of the at-risk population of students.

Students who are economically disadvantaged, for example, such as those who qualify for free and reduced lunch, could be labeled as “at-risk” of dropping out of school or not graduating on time.

Brunner said if he were to apply the two at-risk criteria of “not meeting the core academic curricular objectives in LEA or math” and “chronically absent as defined and reported to CEPI” to the middle school, in sixth grade, there are currently 14 students who meet one of these two criteria, 13 students in seventh grade and 11 students in eighth grade, totaling 38 at risk students.

Brunner said that a student advocate is someone who has the “time and the resources and the knowledge and the skill to work with individuals that fall into this category, make sure they stay on track to graduate, to paying attention to their attendance, and to their grades and to their behavior so that they continue on as successful graduates of our school.”

Advocates would be “forming relationships” with students at lunch or at extracurricular activities.

High school principal Wayne Butler said that both schools have a teaching staff that is dedicated to students; however, the issue lies with having “time” to spend with the at-risk students.

“Some students just need a little bit more - an advocate could form supportive relationships with the kids...They assist them in their at-risk areas,” he said.

Hilary Cunningham, the middle/high school social worker, said she could see herself, the guidance counselor, and the advocate working closely together, as students struggling with absences or lower grades “have something else going on too.”

Cunningham could tackle the “mental health pieces” and guidance counselor Lisa Price could set a target to get missing assignments in, while the advocate can “really help

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

to follow it through and have the full support of myself and Price.”

Board members approved amending the 2020-2021 Budget, as presented.

Regarding the 2020-2021 General Fund Revenue, Pano Arvanitis, director of finance, said that the majority of the district’s funds come from local taxes ($13.7 million). State aid was a lot higher than usual ($1.7 million) due to Covid revenues this year, as well as federal aid ($717,854), due to Covid funds. Total 2020-2021 General Fund revenue was $16.3 million.

Regarding 2020-2021 expenditures, Arvanitis said a “conscious effort” was made to spend as much of the Covid-related revenues on sanitizing, personal protection devices, upgrades to the heating and air (the district purchased the ionization units), which all came under the operation expenses. Expenses also went toward the Bison Virtual Academy. Other expenses included overtime wages and substitute expenses (which were a little higher) due to Covid protocols.

The General Fund balance as of June 30 is roughly at $4.3 million, which is about 29 percent of the district’s expenses.

Board members heard an update on the school district’s technology department from Jacob Stella, technology director.

Stella said that student and staff technology in the elementary school includes 130 iPads just in preschool through first grade, 12 staff iPads, 170 Chromebooks between second and fifth grade, a lab full of 24 Chrome Desktops (he said this summer, they’re looking to remove the lab since labs aren’t needed anymore since the district was one to one in preschool through high school), and 35 staff MacBooks.

In the middle/high school, there are 180 MacBook Airs, the middle school has 150 Chromebooks (which will be replaced this summer), 40 staff MacBooks, 24 iPads, and 36 kindles altogether. There are also 30 Windows Desktops, and 24 Windows Laptops.

Elementary classroom technology includes two ActivWalls, four ActivPanels, 21 televisions, three projectors, Apple televisions and document cameras in each room, sound systems in the classrooms, cafeteria and gym, and a printer in each classroom.

Middle/high school classroom technology includes

five ActivPanels, one ActivWall, seven projectors, 30 televisions, an Apple television, document camera, and sound system with microphone in every classroom, and 14 printers.

Plans for the summer are to replace the Chromebooks in the second grade and the middle school, removing the last computer lab at the elementary school, looking into upgrading outdoor security cameras, and upgrading the district’s wireless system.

Last school year, microphones and sound systems were replaced or installed in classrooms; the district 33 Kajeet hot spots were purchased to send home with students who don’t have internet access; and the intercom/bell system was upgraded.

B

oard members approved appointing Superintendent Dr. Jeff Leslie and Arvanitis to the New Buffalo Area Recreational Authority as representatives of New Buffalo Area Schools.

The administrative contracts for Adam Bowen, elementary principal, and David Kelly, director of Curriculum/Special Education, were approved for two years (2021-2023).

The 2021-2022 administrative work agreements were approved.

Hazard Pay for all active 2020-2021 employees, with an evaluation of at least Effective, in the amount of $600 was approved.

Board members approved the following for coaching positions for 2021-2022: cross country: Vance Price, high school boys; Nathan Jones, high school girls; Ed Fidler, middle school. Football: Matthew Johnson, head coach; John Visel, assistant coach; Rex Gotcher, assistant coach; Adam Lijewski, middle school. Soccer: Erik Beers, high school head coach; Nicolas Talbott, high school assistant coach; Natalie Walter and Pano Arvanitis, middle school.

Tennis: Amy Ingle, high school boys. Volleyball: Lisa Tertel, eighth grade. JV Basketball girls: Lisa Price.

Board members accepted the letter of resignation, with regret, from Cynthia Lang, a paraprofessional.

Board members approved continuing tuition as it currently is within the district.

The Operation Agreement for participants involved in the LaPorte County Career and Technical Education Area Vocational District #6 was approved.

www.newbuffalotimes.com

10 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

P

Wheels in motion to reduce drownings

BY STAN MADDUX

roposed solutions ranging from lifeguards to jet-ski patrols could be presented to the Michigan City Common Council for action as soon as next week in response to a rash of recent drownings and rescues.

The call for additional safety measures as soon as possible came from a Thursday, June 24, meeting of the council’s Public Health and Safety Committee.

Councilwoman Angie Nelson Deuitch, who chairs the committee, said there’s no time to waste with beach season about to kick into high gear.

“In the short term, we need to get people and we need to get equipment,” she said.

Getting lifeguards back on that stretch of Lake

Michigan shoreline could be one of the first things achieved.

Lifeguards were not placed at Washington Park this year.

Michigan City Park Department Superintendent Ed Shinn said just four of 20 applicants for the position earned certification and it takes more than a dozen lifeguards before he can start filling shifts.

Nelson Deuitch said a $400 fee lifeguard applicants must to pay for training to obtain certification was a likely factor in the shortage.

“If I got to spend $400 before I even get my first paycheck that’s a problem,” she said.

She asked Shinn to reach out to the applicants to see

if they work toward certification if the cost is covered by the city.

Other ideas from the meeting included patrolling the water on jet-skis to reach people struggling in the water more quickly and providing life rings on the beach.

Councilman Don Pryzbylinski said anyone could grab a life ring and use it to try and rescue someone having trouble staying afloat.

“We have to be proactive,” he said.

Shinn said he has plenty of beach safety equipment except for a jet-ski and drone if keeping an eye on swimmers from above is desired.

He felt the best solution is educating the public about the dangers of Lake Michigan especially people from out of town unfamiliar about the risks such as undertows.

Just recently, Shinn said people after paying to enter the park started receiving a pamphlet outlining when to stay out of the lake and other water safety information.

The pamphlet is stapled to their admission ticket so they’re forced to at least give it a glance instead of just tossing it aside.

“You have to let people know the lake will swallow your children up,” he said.

A

n 11-year-old girl drowned June 19 when she and two family members were hit by a wave and pulled into deeper water, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

A 14-year-old girl was pulled from the water unconscious next day and was last reported on life support.

Donald Turner, 28, of Portage drowned June 13 after helping his girlfriend to safety after she had been struggling in the water, DNR officials said.

Officials said most of the problems, so far, have been at steep drop off about 100 yards east of the lighthouse pier.

La Porte County Emergency Management Agency Director Larry Butcher said he would speak with DNR officials about the possibility of keeping swimmers away from that area.

DNR has jurisdiction of the water while the public beach is under the jurisdiction of the municipality.

“We can’t continue this trend. This trend is alarming.

It’s early and the summer hasn’t even hit,” Nelson Deuitch said.

We change people through conversation, not through censorship. — Jay-Z

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12 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

Train passengers caught in the crossfire during Hesston ‘Civil War Days’

Retrieving the shipment of gold

Confederate soldiers storm the field

T

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

rouble started brewing just past the “Glacier Pass” sign.

Passengers aboard the 1911 H.K. Porter Steam Locomotive #2 had been told to keep their eyes peeled for anyone wearing a “gray shirt” shortly after departing from Hesston Junction at Hesston Steam Museum during its Civil War Days Saturday and Sunday, June 26-27.

Passengers were told the train was being used to haul a “very special shipment of gold” from Washington D.C., and reports abounded of Confederate spies in the area.

Suddenly, the train came to a halt. Rifles in hand, confederate soldiers charged toward it in search of the coveted gold.

Calvary on horseback burst onto the scene. The sound of gunshots reverberated throughout the large expanse of field.

Once the danger had passed, passengers could relax before disembarking at Hesston Junction again. From there, they wandered the museum grounds, where they could engage with reenactors at living history encampments.

At Hesston for the first time were members of the National Blues. Alex Timmerman, captain of the unit, said the National Blues was a “pre-war militia” in Imperial, Illinois.

Kara and Alex Timmerman of the National Blues

Calvary on horseback

John Downey, captain of the 2nd Kentucky

The shipment of gold has been found

Angie Thomas and Kara Timmerman of the 47th National Blues and Kyle Weatherly of the 2nd Kentucky

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com Living history encampments located on the grounds of Hesston

“A

lot of guys from the National Blues, when war broke out, went on to become officers and leaders of other units, such as the 47th Illinois Infantry which is who we’re portraying this weekend,” he said.

A reenactor for 15 years, Timmerman said that the unit attends events where reenactors gather on each side of the field and stage a large battle.

“The type of situation that we’re in with the steam train it offers something little more different - intimate and smaller…

It creates a lot more memories, that’s for sure,” he said.

The reenactors thrive from the energy that emanates from their audience, Timmerman said.

“To see it, hear it and smell it in person, you get a little idea of visually what it was like and can kind of be a participant of the experience - everyone on the train is a part of the experience at the same time,” he said.

“Logistically,” trains were important during the Civil War, Timmerman said, as they helped ship food and ammunition.

Trains, wagons, and boats all played an important role in the effort.

“It takes an army to feed an army…Just to feed the army for a day, several trains were for food,” he said.

And when the war came to its conclusion, Timmerman said

THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 13 people were ready for to be unified.

“At the end of the day, everybody that fought in that war for the most part forgave each other after the war was over because they wanted to move on, they wanted the country to heal – everyone who fought that war was an American in some way or another,” he said.

Hesston General Manager Ted Rita was celebrating the museum resuming being open after being closed for a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m excited to open again for the rest of the year – we’ll be bringing more exhibits online as we progress in the year,” he said.

Rita said he hopes to have everybody come out to the Labor Day weekend Steam and Power Show at the end of the summer. He advised everyone to check Hesston Steam Museum’s Facebook page to stay up to date on current events.

Even throughout its closure, Rita said the public’s support for the museum has remained steadfast.

“They know we’ve had a really difficult time, and everybody has been donating extra money…

This is volunteer run, non for profit and when we closed up for a year, we delayed a lot of plans because of it - to have people come back into the campus it makes us feel great but then to have them be so generous with us is wonderful,” Rita said.

“We look forward to going full steam ahead in 2021.”

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16 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE ANNOUNCES ONE YEAR OF FREE TUITION

L

ake Michigan College is offering free tuition to students for the 2021-2022 academic year.

The plan, announced during a recent Board of Trustees meeting, covers full tuition and fees up to 30 credit hours for students who enroll in the fall 2021 and spring 2022 semesters.

The offer is open to new and returning, degree-seeking students who are Michigan residents and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Priority will be given to those who complete the application process by Aug. 16.

“Our economy is on the rebound and we can’t afford to lose the opportunity to grow local talent,” said LMC President Trevor A. Kubatzke. “Many area families have had a tough year, but we don’t want financial barriers to slow down anyone’s educational journey.

Our goal is to make it possible for every Michigander to reach their goals.”

The opportunity is made possible by a combination of state and federal funds and scholarships through the LMC Foundation. Many students ages 25 and older are eligible to receive the State’s Michigan Reconnect scholarship.

Others will be covered by Federal Pell grant dollars or the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). LMC will apply donor-funded scholarships and other institutional funds to cover any remaining balance.

Although LMC tuition is the lowest in the region, cost is still a major hurdle for many would-be Red Hawks. A recent survey found that nearly half of all LMC applicants who were admitted but never enrolled, had to postpone college, or opted to skip postsecondary education because they couldn’t afford it.

Prospective students should start by applying at www.lakemichigancollege. edu/apply. Applicants must also complete a FAFSA. — STAFF REPORTS

I

Berrien County Trial Court moves to Phase 4

n accordance with the the court’s YouTube channel.

Michigan Supreme Court’s Several types of court proceedings Return to Full Capacity Guide will return to being conducted inas updated June 21, 2021, all person, while many proceeding types Michigan courts have been will continue to be held remotely via moved to Phase 4 of re-opening Zoom. A detailed listing of hearing types guidelines. In coordination between and how they will be scheduled are the Chief Judge and the Berrien available at the Trial Court’s website.

County Health Department, the Regardless of method of engagement, Berrien County Trial Court will thus all participants – remote or in-person be updating operations effective – must follow Berrien County Trial July 1, 2021.

Court Administrative Order 2013-02 Pursuant to the recommendations “Courthouse Decorum” when engaged of the Berrien County in a court proceeding Health Department, or the presiding judicial Pursuant to the the courthouse officer may have that recommendations of individual removed from buildings will be the Berrien County open to the public. the proceeding.

Health Department, Public entering the the courthouse courthouse facilities he Berrien buildings will be will be asked to selfCounty open to the public. screen for COVID Juvenile Public entering symptoms and not Center will the courthouse enter the facilities continue facilities will be if experiencing said to operate under asked to selfsymptoms. the appropriate screen for COVID Masks are strongly COVID-19 protocols symptoms and not encouraged for as recommended by enter the facilities any members of the Centers for Disease if experiencing said Control as a congregate the public not symptoms. fully vaccinated care facility. In-person from COVID-19, visits with juveniles will now be allowed, with members of the specifically when sitting in public required to complete a health the gallery of the courtrooms. screening and wear a face covering Members of the public will no while in the facility. longer be required to check-in with This guidance from the Berrien court staff prior to entry into the County Health Department comes at courthouses. The COVID-19 video this time due to low community spread, request protocol is discontinued as stable to decreasing percent positivity, public access to the courthouses is and good capacity for healthcare broadened. delivery and treatment. Should Jurors will continue to be community conditions change, changes required to socially distance may be required at all operational levels during jury trials (including during particularly while the court remains in juror selection) and are strongly Phase 4 of the Return to Full Capacity encouraged to wear a face covering Guide. if unvaccinated. Jurors will also A detailed listing of services returning complete a daily health screening to in-person accessibility as well as with court staff prior to accessing those services which will remain remote the facilities. Due to continued can be found at the Trial Court’s website social distancing, jury trials will at www.berriencounty.org/1058/trialcontinue to be closed to the general court. — STAFF REPORTS public but will be livestreamed to

T

Lakeside Association to sponsor ‘Ice Cream Social’

T

The Lakeside Association and the Harbor Country Rotary will be joining together to raise money for scholarships at the Lakeside Ice Cream Social which will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at the Lakeside Park Gazebo, Lakeside Road and Red Arrow Highway, in Lakeside.

What is summer without ice cream? And what is better than ice cream and cake in the beautiful Lakeside Park? This year, the Rotary Club of Harbor Country will again join the Lakeside Association. This partnership will bring Harbor Country neighbors together to meet and mingle, sit, visit, and raise money for scholarships for local high school students.

Come on over to the Lakeside Park.

Tickets are $5, which gets you ice cream, homemade cake, cookies, and more. There will be live music, activities for the kids, and of course, the traditional cake auction. The bestdecorated cakes will be auctioned off at 6:30 p.m., with proceeds going to the Lakeside Association Scholarship Fund.

For more information, visit www. thelakesideassociation.com or call 312-305-0496.

The event is sponsored by The Lakeside Association of Harbor Country. All proceeds go to the Scholarship Fund benefiting high school seniors in the River Valley School District.

The Lakeside Association is a long-standing organization that invites residents to participate in their community through holiday parades, the Ice Cream Social, Garden Walk, and History Walk. Volunteers from the association also help maintain the Lakeside Park, a restful green space in the village center. – STAFF REPORTS

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 17

Dunes Summer Theatre takes ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ outdoors

T

he Dunes Summer Theatre’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is being performed at the perfect time in the perfect place.

That’s according to Steve Scott, director of the midsummer performances of the Shakespeare play July 9-25, 2021, at the theatre’s new outdoor venue.

Scott says, “The lawn of the Dunes Theatre is the perfect natural setting. And our wonderfully diverse cast of talented young actors is the perfect ensemble for this hysterically funny, utterly romantic comedy.” Scott is an artistic associate at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, where he was an award-winning producer for more than 30 years before retiring in 2017. He returns for his third season at Dunes, where he directed The Spitfire Grill in 2018 and Working in 2019.

Scott is a board member of the Dunes Arts Foundation.

The ten cast members have come from around the country to perform at the historic Northwest Indiana theatre, now celebrating its 70th anniversary.

Beck Damron graduated this year from the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film in Lincoln, Nebraska with a BA in acting. He plays the role of Puck.

Jay Espanño is a multi-talented actor, writer, director, producer and filmmaker with an MA in film directing from Columbia College Chicago.

He played Smudge in this year’s Forever Plaid and plays Lysander in Midsummer.

Emily Franks has a BFA in theatre performance from the University of Idaho.

She lives in Washington state and returns to Dunes Summer Theatre to play Helena, after performing in the 2019 production of South Pacific.

Haley Glickman is making her Dunes debut in the dual roles of Egeus and Bottom. She holds a BFA from Marymount Manhattan College.

Jamie Herb is pursuing an MFA in the acting at the DePaul Theatre School and has a BA

in English and theatre from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is playing Hypolita.

Caroline McKinzie graduated this year from Lyric Theatre at Illinois and has performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in London. She plays Hermia in Midsummer and is teaching two classes for the Dunes summer theatre children’s program.

Caitlin McNichol will receive a BFA in acting from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University. She plays Titania.

Erin Christine Walsh has a BFA in acting from Syracuse University and is based on New York City and Chicago. She has performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in London and at theatres across Europe and the United States. She is a singer, songwriter and voiceover artist. She plays Demetrius.

Lizzie Williams, originally from Cheshire in England, has lived in Chicago since 2012 and is a graduate of Loyola University’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts. She debuts at Dunes in the role of Oberon.

Tito Sanchez-Williams wears many hats at Dunes Summer Theatre. He is the Dunes Arts Foundation artistic director and board member.

He directed this year’s Forever Plaid, teaches acting classes for the Dunes summer theatre children’s program, and is playing Theseus in Midsummer. He holds an MFA from the New School for Drama in New York City.

On it.

Ending racial injustice requires all of us to work together and take real action.

What can you do to help?

Educate yourself about the history of American racism, privilege and what it means to be anti-racist.

Commit to actions that challenge injustice and make everyone feel like they belong, such as challenging biased or racist language when you hear it.

Vote in national and local elections to ensure your elected officials share your vision of public safety.

Donate to organizations, campaigns and initiatives who are committed to racial justice.

P

erformances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream take place at 6 pm Central time on Fridays-Sundays, July 9-25. Performances are free and donations are welcome. Reservations are required and can be made at www. dunesarts.org/tickets. Audience members are advised to bring lawn chairs. Rental chairs and refreshments will be available.

The theatre is located at 288 Shady Oak Drive in Michigan City. For more information visit www.dunesarts.org. — STAFF REPORTS

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

New Buffalo Times

Let’s come together to take action against racism

and fight for racial justice for the Black community.

Visit lovehasnolabels.com/fightforfreedom

— SINCE 1942 —

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18 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

The Dale Prasco Trio heads to Three Oaks Whittaker Street 11 N.N.Whittaker Street Suite A A Suite NewBuffalo, Buffalo, MI MI 49117 New 49117

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uitarists and all lovers of guitar jazz and blues won’t want to miss the Dale Prasco Trio in Three Oaks, Friday, July 30.

The concert, which begins at 7 p.m. on the Spring Creek Stage at the School of American Music’s Arts & Education Center, 14 Maple St., will showcase the talent and virtuosity of Prasco on guitar, Charles “Rick” Heath IV on drums, and Ron Hall on the bass guitar. Local jazz vocalist, Livia Gazzolo, will open the show accompanied by Matt Berger on guitar.

“Rarely does Three Oaks have the opportunity to hear a trio of this caliber,” said Ron Spears, organizer and underwriter of the event. “This is a jazz concert you don’t want to miss.”

Dale Prasco studied jazz guitar at the Berklee School of Music and has been playing the jazz and blues circuit in the greater Chicago region for well over 30 years. He has worked with

A RARE TREAT:

Dale Prasco

guitarist Mike Stern and musicians Alex Bugnon and Elvin A Bishop, to name a few, and is fluent in jazz, blues/rock and almost anything else he can coax out of his electric guitar. b i Drummer Charles i “Rick” Heath IV is t one of the most indemand drummers T in the Chicago area, with a reputation for being among the best anywhere. Bass guitar Ron Hall has been a member of the Poi Dog p u Pondering band since i 1999, and a regular b performer with the G Dale Prasco Trio.

A

Livia Gazzolo

Matt Berger

dmission to the concert is free and m open to theo public. Bring your own t a lawn chairs. h More information about the performers C can be found on www. schoolofamericanmusic.com.

This concert is underwritten by Ron Spears, a board mem- b u ber and guitar instruc- m tor at the School of o American Music. To donate to SAM, visit www.schoolofamericanmusic.com or call 269-409-1191. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 19

HOR0SCOPE JULY 1-7, 2021

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

It will be hard to connect with friends this week.

Either you’re just not communicating on the same level or when you do, it’s like it hitting a brick wall and sparks fly. Whether there is a lack of communication or just the inability to relate, it’s better to put your time and resources into your own issues.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

When it comes to communicating with partners, don’t be surprised if your timing or verbiage is way off the mark. We are entering a vibration, where getting cooperation and connecting with partners may be difficult.

For the time being it may be better to keep your aspirations to yourself.

Get ready to deal with hearing “no” or with bad attitudes becoming an obstacle. The vibration we are entering may make it difficult to proceed with travel plans or get ideas for projects up and going. If you are dealing with negativity, make adjustments in the way you are negotiating.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

As much as you would like to push forward with projects at home, you will have to deal with some red tape or deal with some forceful personalities before you can finish things up. The opportunity that is presenting itself is the chance to validate yourself by being more assertive and vocal.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

It will be difficult to finish up projects this week until you deal with your inner dialogue and overcome the apprehension and fear that comes from within. There is an element of self-sabotaging that must be dealt with now. It’s time to move out of isolation and reach out to friends.

Maneuvering through the financial world could be difficult this week, unless you make some adjustments with partners or debt collectors. The vibe with others could be off due to a financial issue or you may not be taking full advantage of all the moneysaving opportunities that are available.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

It will become apparent this week, that some of the things you have been saying or believing just aren’t true. Whether it is a misunderstanding of information or an outright omission of facts, you will have the opportunity to get the facts straight and right any financial troubles it may have caused.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 Creative projects or getting together with friends may not go as planned this week and you may have to make some executive decisions that could set you apart from the group’s original conception of the project. This is an opportunity to take the lead and set things on a better course for all parties.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

The vibe coming your way this week could make it feel difficult to handle financial obligations or to become fully invested in something. There will be a lot of pressure to make decisions or unexpected alternatives will arise at the last minute, making it difficult to pick one thing over the other.

As much as you would like to uphold a commitment with someone, there will be issues that make you feel insecure or unsure about the longevity of the partnership.

Even though there is an opportunity for your relationship to move to the next level, don’t make excuses for bad behavior.

Your timing could be way off with partners this week, which could inhibit your ability to connect or cooperate in a good way. Be aware that you may be inadvertently sabotaging your relationship by withholding emotionally or keeping things on a strictly business level.

You have been putting a lot of work into something that just isn’t going to pay off right now. Rather than getting discouraged and scrapping the whole thing, perhaps you can put it in the crockpot and let it sit till the end of the year. In the meantime, get back to having fun in the summer sun.

As usual, Beware Friends disguised as Friends. — Dino

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20 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

Donors urgently needed: Red Cross still facing severe blood shortage

PUBLIC NOTICES VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH NOTICE OF TAXES The 2021 summer taxes for the Village of Grand Beach are due and payable July 1, 2021 until September 14, 2021. Taxes are payable to the Village of Grand Beach, 48200 Perkins Blvd., Grand Beach, MI 49117, or may be dropped off in the outside drop box at the Village Hall.

MARY J. ROBERTSON CLERK/TREASURER

VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH NOTICE OF SUMMER TAX DEFERMENT Applications for deferment of 2021 taxes for the Village of Grand Beach are now available by contacting the Clerk’s Office, 48200 Perkins Blvd., Grand Beach, MI 49117, (269) 4693141.

A person who is a paraplegic, hemiplegic, quadriplegic, eligible serviceperson, eligible veteran, eligible widow or widower, totally and permanently disabled, blind, or 62 years old and who for the prior taxable year had a total household income of $40,000 or less may defer the summer taxes until February 14th of the following year by filing with the Treasurer of the Village an intent to defer the homestead property taxes which are due and payable in July.

Persons eligible for deferment of taxes may file their intent to defer until September 14, 2021.

MARY J. ROBERTSON CLERK/TREASURER

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

T

HOSPITAL BLOOD DEMAND REMAINS HIGH AS NATION HEADS INTO HOLIDAY

interactions and travel, leading to lower he American Red Cross UPCOMING donor turnout. The need for blood doesn’t continues to experience a severe BLOOD DONATION take a holiday break − patients still depend blood shortage that is negatively OPPORTUNITIES on lifesaving transfusions. affecting blood product THROUGH JULY 15 Donors are needed now to prevent availability across the country. further delays to patient care. Schedule an Donors of all blood types – especially type • Niles: July 8, 2021: appointment to give blood now by using O and those giving platelets– are urged NOON-5:45PM, Niles the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting to make an appointment to give now and Westside Seventh-day RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED help ensure hospital shelves are stocked Adventist Church, CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the with blood products over the Fourth of July 1105 Grant St. Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. holiday and beyond.

• Buchanan: July 14, 2021: s a thank-you, all those Right now, the Red Cross is working 11AM-4:45PM, Seventhwho come to give July 1-6 around the clock to provide blood products day Adventist Church, will receive a Red Cross to hospitals responding to an unusually high 3115 Niles Buchanan Rd. embroidered hat by mail,* number of traumas and emergency room • Saint Joseph: July 14, while supplies last. And, donors visits, as well as overdoses and resulting 2021: 11AM-4:45PM, transplants. As a result of the blood who come to give July 7-31 will receive a Silver Beach Center, shortage, some hospitals are being forced $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus 333 Broad St. to slow the pace of elective surgeries until a chance to win gas for a year (a $5,000 • Benton Harbor: July the blood supply stabilizes, delaying crucial value). (Terms and conditions apply; visit 15, 2021: 11AM-4:45PM, patient care. rcblood.org/fuel).

Masonic Lodge St. In addition, while summer is traditionally In most cases, those who have received Joseph, 3661 E Napier a time when blood donations decline, this a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. However, Ave. year is particularly challenging as many knowing the name of the manufacturer of Americans receive their vaccinations and the vaccine they received is important in resume summer activities after more than a year of limited determining donation eligibility. — STAFF REPORTS

A

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 21

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.

FOR RENT

NEW BUFFALO RETAIL US 12 high-visibility rental & pop-up spaces next to popular yoga studio.

Great parking. 700-2,000 SF. Call to view/rates @ 312-259-4011.

NEW BUFFALO Year Around Rental. Large 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.Will be available in September/October. Quiet Living, no pets. $750-$925 per month. For more information call 269-469-1364.

HELP WANTED

LOVE WORKING OUTDOORS AND IN THE TREES? Awesome, outdoor, low covid exposure, summer work. C&A Arborists, your local tree care professionals, are looking for help!!

Drivers license required, CDL preferred. Please call 269-756-2571, email jamietreephilosophy@gmail.com.

FULL TIME COOK POSITION IN LA PORTE 1 Year Experience. Call Oak Woods Manor for more details. 219-362-6600.

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS EXPERIENCE PREFERRED Carpentry drywall flooring tile setting windows doors and decking. Must be 18 years or older with valid drivers license.

Heavy lifting involved. 219-808-1329. johnrtaylor1953@gmail.com

include box office, front of house, patron communication and coordinating volunteers. The position requires flexible hours including some Friday and Saturday evenings. Join this growing nonprofit performing arts organization in Three Oaks, MI. For more information, go to www.acornlive.org/jobs.

The Acorn seeks a Part-Time Custodial and Maintenance contractor to maintain the cleanliness of the theater building, set up theater seating for each show, maintain clear and safe emergency exits, periodic equipment and building inspection, and arrange repairs. This position requires flexible hours including Friday and Saturday evenings and the ability to lift at least 50 pounds. Join this growing nonprofit performing arts organization in Three Oaks, MI. For more information, go to www.acornlive.org/jobs.

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY A part-time position is available at the New Buffalo Township Library and will be posted until the application deadline of June 25, 2021. The position is scheduled for approximately 12 to 20 hours per week, including evenings and some Saturdays. We are seeking an individual who is flexible, friendly, and comfortable working with patrons of all ages. Applications can be received at the New Buffalo Township Library, located at: 33 N. Thompson Street, New Buffalo, MI.

SERVICES

FISH FOR STOCKING Most Varieties Pond Lakes.

Laggis Fish Farm 269-628-2056 Days, 269-624-6215 Eve

THE ACORN IS HIRING The Acorn seeks an organized, customer-service oriented individual for a Part Time Operations Assistant/ Volunteer Coordinator. Responsibilities

ELDERLY CARE NEEDED? Compassionate help available to care for your loved ones. Experienced and Dependable. Call Diane 219-344-2265

OBITUARIES

August Adolph Schmidt

A

1934-2021

ugust Adolph Schmidt, 87, of Sawyer, died peacefully Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Spectrum Hospital, St. Joseph.

His life began June 4, 1934 in Chikaming, Twp. He was born to Adolph and Mabel (Lumley) Schmidt. Augie married Joyce Hill on May 8, 1982 in Trinity Lutheran Church in Sawyer.

August will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by two sisters, Jean (Gerald) Spitzer of Stevensville, Lorraine Livengood of Sawyer; one brother Donald Schmidt of Sawyer; and nieces and nephews; Terry Germain, Shelley Yuran, Roxy Scheer, Judy Anstey, Jerry Spitzer Jr., John Spitzer. Steve, Mike and Dave Livengood.

He was preceded in death by his wife,

Joyce, and his parents.

Augie was a gardener, golfer and a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church his entire life. He retired from A.M. General after 30+ years of service. During his colorful life he split firewood five to six days a week, year round, made his famous sauerkraut, raised chickens, but primarily he enjoyed socializing with family and being home.

Family and friends will gather Monday, June 28, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. in Trinity Lutheran Church, 5791 Sawyer Road, Sawyer. Mr. Schmidt will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery in Chikaming Township.

The family prefers contributions in memory of August be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 5791 Sawyer Road, Sawyer, Michigan 49125.

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

DEATH NOTICES THREE OAKS – Don D. Jackson, 63, of Three Oaks, died Monday, June 28, 2021.

Arrangements are pending at Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks.

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22 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Professionals in all of your tree care needs “Opening Doors To Affordable Housing”

We Build Modular Homes Year Round Located On The Corner of Fail Road & Highway #2 Over 5 Model Homes On Display

800-729-5664 www.laportehousing.com

Modular Home Construction

Maple City

Tree SpecialiSTS

REMOVAL STUMP GRINDING removal stump grinding TOPPING PRESERVATION topping preservation TRIMMING STORM DAMAGE trimming storm LOT & LAND CLEARING damage

free estimates

the cost-effective alternative to new housing

Customize Your Own floor Plan Remodeling/ Home Improvement/ New Construction

Commercial • Residential 37 Years Experience • Insured

219-808-1329

johnrtaylor1953@gmail.com Residential Builder MI License No. 2102222731

Dennis Jeffers, sr.

219-393-3155 maplecitytree@comcast.net

ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE PLEASE CONTACT JANINE L. ADAMSKI JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM (630) 370-0820

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

New Buffalo Times

— SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021 23

___________________________________________________________________ 685 West Main Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 | (269) 983-0325 | passarokahne.com 17656A US Highway 12, New Buffalo, MI 49117 | (269) 469-5297 | Fax: (269) 983-0328

• Business/Tax Law • Estate Planning • Medicaid & Long-Term

Care Planning

• Real Estate • Special Needs Planning • Probate and Trust

Administration

T.269.358.8159

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24 THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

Trust It To Be Wonderful

RESTAURANT

16409 Red Arrow Highway | Union Pier

Roosevelt Pipe Organ Concerts AVA I L A B L E 5 P M 8 C L O S E walk-ins encouraged and limited reservations available

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 531 WASHINGTON ST., MICHIGAN CITY

WEDNESDAYS, AT NOON (CST) THRU AUGUST 25

T u e s d ay pasta tr adition

JUNE 30 MARK SUDEITH

W e d n e s d ay FResh catch

JULY 14 CAROL GARRETT

T h u r s d ay heart y homest yle

JULY 28 BILL HALLIAR

JULY 7 KENT JAGER

JULY 21 GEORGE KARST

AUGUST 4 LEE MEYER AUGUST 11 MATT GERHARD

362 journeymandistiller y.com | downtown three oaks | 269-820-2050 |

AUGUST 18 OLIVER RZYCKI

FROM WARSAW, POLAND

AUGUST 25 TBA