August 17, 2017

LIFE ON THE SANDY SHORES, THE FRUITFUL FARMLANDS AND THE MAGNIFICENT VINEYARDS.

New Buffalo Times

news

50¢

TH HE E O OF FF FIIC CIIA AL L N NE EW WS SPA PAP PE ER R O OF F N NE EW W B BU UF FFA FAL LO O •• S SIIN NC CE E 1 19 94 42 4 T

LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 33, volume 76

www.newbuffalotimes.com

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Planning Commission recommends North Whittaker Project Phase Two site plan to city PAGE 7

NBAS board members approve new school year employees, discuss school resource officer PAGE 11

DDA preps for North Whittaker Street reconstruction PAGE 12

Calvary Chapel New Buffalo celebrates Gospel Fest PAGE 13 Council clears way for Phase II; Beach replenishment could be on the way PAGE 17

‘Lady Elvis’, Sally Grayson of Black Swift Hits Stride PAGE 23

MR. BLOTTO

NEW BUFFALO CELEBRATES SHIP & SHORE — PAGES 14-15 —

PHOTO OF MR. BLOTTO ON STAGE BY LINDA HENDERSON

2

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

WHERE’S THE BEACH?

2016

1967

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR GREAT BEACHES SOUTH OF THE HARBOR AND WHAT EFFORTS THE COMMUNITY IS WORKING ON TO RESTORE THEM YOU MUST ATTEND THE NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING AT THE NEW BUFFALO HIGH SCHOOL SEPT. 2 AT 10:00. VIEW A PAST MEETING AT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oQP4ccC7I4&t=303s PLEASE GO TO OUR WEB SITE https://newbuffaloshorelinealliance.org

ATTENTION: THREE OAKS NOW HAS THURSDAY DELIVERY!

New Buffalo Times

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT WWW.NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM

Fresh Seafood & Hand Cut Steaks Open Wednesday – Sunday @ 6

Your Invited to…A Night of Celebration Food, Martinis & Sinatra Jim Bulanda Live “Tribute to Frank” 8pm Eastern

Toast to Ten Years in Business

Complete Tree Service Lot Clearing Tree Pruning and Removals Stump Grinding Plant Health Care Pest and Disease Consulting

C & A Arborists, Inc. 269-756-2571

Dinner Specials Starting @ $11.99 Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday

16036 Red Arrow Hwy Union Pier, MI 269.469.9865 ° frankiesotherplace.net

www.treephilosophy.info treephilosophy@yahoo.com Trained, Educated, Up to Date, Environmentally Friendly

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017 w

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

ETHICS Society of Professional Journalism PROPRIETOR NEW BUFFALO TIMES, INC. PUBLISHER DEE DEE DUHN CONTENT/NEWS EDITOR KRISTIN E. FATOUROS NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE CREATIVE DIRECTOR JOE DURK REPORTERS AND CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DEE DEE DUHN THERESE DONNELLY LINDA HENDERSON FRANCESCA SAGALA LAWRENCE VON EBELER NATALIE CACIOPPO KURT MARGGRAF ALEXANDER FATOUROS SOPHIA ROSE FATOUROS NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE NEW BUFFALO TIMES POLITICS GUEST WRITERS

FROM THE PUBLISHER

h

PROOFER FRANCESCA SAGALA BROADCAST/ADVERTISING JANINE ADAMSKI (630) 370-0820 OR JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM INFO@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM LONG TERM BROADCAST CONTRACTS/AD PARTNERSHIPS PLEASE TEXT/CALL GUS 269-876-7452 SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTIONS@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM

COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY WITH NEW BUFFALO TIMES INFO@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM

LIBRARY TIDINGS NEWS AND EVENTS

ALMOST PERFECT… Had it not been for my having to keep getting off the narrow sidewalks so others could pass by, it would have been the PERFECT weekend at Ship and Shore.

This was especially true for that tiny one that goes to Customs Imports from New Buffalo Savings Bank. It is so small, Isabella Picadilly Circus had to walk in the dirt the whole block. I also wish the street was more high-heel friendly (something you don’t really notice until there is a festival in the street).

Then there are those big old flower pots that block everything, the benches that aren’t very pretty, the street lights– New Buffalo could be such a pretty town if only they would do something with that old, worn out North Whittaker Street that is barely being held up with really old water pipes!

Well, in case you have not heard, the city is about to redo, renew and redesign North Whittaker Street! This week, the New Buffalo Downtown Development Authority’s DVI (design and visual impact) subcommittee, which is chaired by Ellie Mullins, headed to Kalamazoo to tour Landscape

FROM THE NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

Forms, a Michigan-based, award-winning manufacturer of commercial outdoor furniture, lighting and accessories. They have installations all over the world! The purpose of the trip was to learn more about the design culture and craft, ensuring that the decisions that are made will endure for years to come. The contrast of sitting on the benches and touching the perfected metals and woods that will serve as an important part of Whittaker Street’s character and personality versus just looking at everything in a catalog or online was amazing! The DDA will continue researching their options before making recommendations to the City Council for a final approval.

You can read about Ship and Shore on pages 14-15). As for the sidewalks and streets, the DDA, Abonmarche and the city will keep us up to date on every move, just as they did with the redevelopment of Mechanic and Barton streets. Keep your eye on New Buffalo Times!

Have fun, dee dee duhn, member of DVI and DDA

Periodical Postage paid in New Buffalo, MI. Postmaster, please send address changes to: NEW BUFFALO TIMES PO BOX 959 New Buffalo, MI 49117

For the most convenient location, you can subscribe to get the NEW BUFFALO TIMES in your mailbox or inbox.

Please email us for E-TIMES, info@newbuffalotimes.com.

SEPTEMBER BOOK CLUB PICK: THE OTHER EINSTEIN

BY MARIE BENEDICT YOUNG POETS CONTEST 2017 ENTRIES ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED, SEE DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE OR EMAIL NEWBUFFALOLIBRARYYOUTH@ GMAIL.COM THURSDAY, AUGUST 17

SCRABBLE CLUB 6PM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 STORY TIME 11AM YOGA 1:30PM

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

ADULT SUMMER READING CHALLENGE ENTRIES DUE BY 4PM

©2017 NEW BUFFALO TIMES, INC. PUBLICATION NUMBER 377960

The NEW BUFFALO TIMES is easy to find now, as we have the selected drop spots closer to you.

Milda’s Corner Market Customs Imports Sawyer Garden Center The Whistle Stop David’s Delicatessen Grand Variety Barney’s Knoll Bros.

Bud and Elsie’s Redamak’s Flip’s Big C Lumber Between Casey’s and Nancy’s

ADULT SUMMER READING CHALLENGE PACKETS AVAILABLE (DUE AUGUST 19)

MONDAY, AUGUST 21

LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS OF LAKE MICHIGAN (FRIENDS SPONSORED) 6:30PM Roger Boike, Kathy Burczak, Robert Kemper, Kirt Martinv (designer, Landscape Forms), Richard Heriford (President of Landscape Forms), Ellie Mullins, Amanda Nawara (Landscape Forms), Paula Bartholome, Kay Hartman, Kathy Randolph, and Tony McGhee. [not pictured: Dee Dee Duhn and Karen Doughty]

CORRECTION In the July 20 edition of New Buffalo Times, in an article for the songwriter competition at the Acorn Theater, Dina Bach’s name was misprinted, with an incorrect last name of Balich. Please note that the correct name for third place in the Acorn Singer/Songwriter Contest for her song “Slow Dance” was Dina Bach.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23

STITCHES, NEEDLES, THREADS AND MORE 10AM-2PM

NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY 33 N THOMPSON ST NEW BUFFALO, MI (269) 469-2933

3

4

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS INCREASES PART-TIME OFFICERS’ PAY, APPROVES VICKERS’ ALCOHOL SALE REQUEST

S

oon, the Village of Three Oaks will have a new budget to go with its new village manager.

At their Wednesday, Aug. 9, meeting, which was the first one with Mike Green as manager, the council approved the preliminary budget for 2018 as presented. Some amendments are expected before the budget receives final approval.

The village’s current budget saw some action at the meeting.

Village President Dave Grosse explained Police Chief Dennis Buller had expressed concerns that the current wages paid to part-time and full-time village police officers was too low to retain officers. Grosse recommended increasing part-time officers’ pay by $1 per hour and fulltime officers’ by $1.50 per hour. He said the increase would bring parttime officers even with pay in nearby communities and bring full-time officers close. The village police department provides police coverage to Three Oaks Township, and Grosse said there is an inflation rider in the coverage agreement, which could help cover the new salaries.

Work is expected to start soon on the village’s sewage pond.

Michigan DEQ has approved plans to dredge the pond, which allowed the council to vote to enter a contract to remove accumulated sludge.

Grosse said the firm Gro America had already done an estimated $40,000 of work on the dredging plans at no cost to the village and quoted a price of 6.9 cents per gallon to remove the sludge. The council approved entering a contract.

The council also approved a contract with Moore and Bruggink for waste water treatment work, not to exceed $29,500. The costs will come from the repair/replace fund and not the daily operations fund.

At a previous meeting, the council approved purchase of a new pickup truck for the Department of Public Works. At the August meeting, Green told the council he had not heard from the dealership regarding finalizing the purchase. He said both he and Grosse would make contact.

Vickers Theater submitted an application for beer and wine sales.

Co-owner Bill Lindblom explained that movie theaters, especially independent ones, have “taken a hit in recent years.” Vickers hopes to improve revenue by offering a limited alcohol selection to theatergoers.

Councilmember Steve Graziano asked if the license would stay with the property, or if it could be passed to another location. Lindblom said with sales restricted to beer and wine it would be unlikely that any prospective tavern would want to purchase the license. Village Attorney Charles Hilmer said the type of license is generally tied to the location.

The council voted to approve the request. The application now goes to the Michigan Liquor Commission for approval.

The meeting took place during Green’s first week on the job. He gave the Council a brief overview of his work so far, noting that parking striping is scheduled for the downtown. — THERESE DONNELLY

EXPERIENCE THE BUTTERFLY BONANZA AT FRIENDSHIP BOTANIC GARDENS

E

veryone’s favorite pollinator pal will be featured at Friendship Botanic Gardens’ free educational program on butterflies from 2 to 4 p.m. (CDT) Sunday, Aug. 20.

Horticulturalist Dolly Foster will discuss butterfly gardening, pollinator conservation, and how guests can attract these beautiful “flying flowers” to their own backyards. This is a remarkable opportunity for families to learn how to help boost butterfly populations through hands-on citizen science. Newly hatched monarchs will be released into the Gardens’ specially designed butterfly garden. Also at the event, children can make and take home free butterfly crafts​.

Friendship Botanic Gardens is located at 2055 East US Highway 12 in Michigan City, Indiana. For more information, call 219 878 9885.

— STAFF REPORTS

Actress, Academy Award Winner, Star of the Movie My Cousin Vinny, Brooklyn, New York Native Marisa Tomei was in New Buffalo this Weekend including a Stop to enjoy her favorite Summer Treat Oink’s Ice Cream.

T

LRSB receives Specific Actual Costs requests LINDA HENDERSON IN NEW BUFFALO

he Pokagon-New Buffalo Area Local Revenue Sharing Board reviewed written requests for the reimbursement of Specific Actual Costs (SAC) from the past year from Berrien County, New Buffalo Township and Berrien RESA at their regular meeting Tuesday, Aug. 8.

The Specific Actual Cost (SAC) requests totaled $322,212.46 for 2017. In 2016, the approved payments totaled $574,158.18, which was down $ 33,564.27 from 2015. The 2017 SAC requests showed a marked decrease of $318,195.72 from the 2016 requests of $640,408.18. In 2015, the total SAC requests were $844,903.12.

The board reviewed 2017 SAC requests from the following municipalities: Berrien County, which requested $150,226 for Specific Actual Costs for two departments; Judicial and Jail costs were $31,382 and 9-1-1 Dispatch requested $118,843.00 for the costs to handle the increase in calls from the service area since the casino opened.

The County Health Department did not file a request for 2017. The county SAC request represents a decrease of $41,132 from 2016.

Berrien County RESA requested $17,490.00. This represents reimbursement for student costs for those who have parents who are employees of Four Winds Casino.

New Buffalo Township requested a total reimbursement of $154,496.46, which was $285,071.72 less than their request in 2016. The reason for the decrease was the lower reimbursement request of $138,182.50 for Police Protection costs. The township residents voted for a Public Safety Millage in November 2016 to cover the operating costs of the Berrien County Sherriff’s, a contracted law enforcement department, which reduced their SAC request for police protection by $288,562.04 from the $426,744.54 they requested in 2016.

The township did ask for Police Protection reimbursement of $138,182.50 for a period of four months, July through November 2016, which was the period before the millage was passed. They included documentation for reimbursement for 52 casino related patrol calls. They also requested as an alternative to the police protection reimbursement the LRSB add the 1.4 millage rate increase to the Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) formula for this year’s distribution.

New Buffalo Township also requested $16,313.96 for maintenance and operating costs associated with the booster station that supplies water to the Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo.

None of the other six municipalities or the New Buffalo Area Schools submitted SAC requests for 2017.

Each October, the LRSB distributes 2 percent of the electronic gaming revenue from the Four Winds Casino and Resort in New Buffalo according to the 2000 State Compact Agreement between the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, New Buffalo Township, New Buffalo City and Berrien County. The LRSB funds are allocated in three ways: Specific Actual Costs incurred as a result of the casino being located in the county and in the Harbor Country community, Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) for the government entities that would normally receive tax reimbursement from the property and a predetermined percentage amount is allocated to the Harbor Country communities and the county as a “discretionary” payout.

At the Sept. 12 meeting, the board will review, in depth, all of the above requests for SAC. If there is unanimous agreement by the board, the payment for Specific Actual Costs is traditionally made at the October LRSB meeting. All of the remaining municipal disbursements are then made at a special LRSB meeting the week following SAC disbursements. The Specific Actual Costs payments come off the top of the total 2 percent amount allocated for disbursements and then the PILT is determined and the remainder is awarded as Discretionary Funds. It is then divided by an assigned percentage among the municipalities per the Compact Agreement.

The municipalities receiving Discretionary Funds are: Berrien County, 7 percent; the townships of Chikaming, 10 percent; New Buffalo, 40 percent; Three Oaks, 10 percent; The City of New Buffalo, 20 percent; Villages of Grand Beach, 2 percent; Village of Michiana, 2 percent; Village of Three Oaks, 5 percent; New Buffalo Area Schools, 1 percent; Berrien County RESA, 1 percent; New Buffalo Township Library, 1 percent and Lake Michigan College, 1 percent.

The Pokagon-New Buffalo Area Local Revenue Sharing Board distributed a total of $4,570,168.84 to the municipalities in 2016.

At the end of the meeting, the board reconvened to approve a payment of $4,600 to Gerbel and Company P.C. for the annual LRSB audit for the year ending 2016. The Board will review the SAC requests at their next meeting at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Sept.

12, at New Buffalo Township Hall.

Chicago’s John P. Daley was in New Buffalo this weekend that included a stop for Coffee To Go @ Davids Delicatessen.

— PAGETWO@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM

www.newbuffalotimes.com

ACORN THEATER TO PRESENT “THE SIGNAL”

N

S

Chikaming Township Board discusses beach access, hears budget audit review at meeting

T

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

he topic of beach access was discussed by Chikaming Township board members at their monthly meeting Thursday, Aug. 10.

Board members reviewed a proposed amendment to Section 15 of Ordinance 126. According to Township Supervisor David Bunte, the amendment is a culmination of five months of meetings with park board members, Township Attorney Charles Hilmer, Fire Chief Mike Davidson and Police Chief Todd Taylor.

The current ordinance states that no construction machinery should be moved “in, upon, or across the land, roads, bluffs, and facilities at a public park, preserve or beach” in the township unless a permit has been issued. The township supervisor currently holds the authority to issue a permit to allow the opening of the gates at the township’s five beach access points for the purpose of moving machinery. The proposed amendment states that the application for a permit would be sent to the Park Board, who would then decide if a permit should be issued at their next monthly meeting.

Treasurer Liz Rettig said she was concerned that the Park Board making the decision at their regular meetings would result in a 30-day delay in issuing the permit. Trustee Rich Sullivan pointed out that contractors understood they would need to go through “hoops” to complete projects.

“This is one of the ducks that would be in a row,” he said.

Board members agreed to readdress the amendment at their September meeting.

Also at the meeting, board members heard the township’s 2016-2017 audit review from Brian Wisneski of Gerbel and Company.

Wisneski said their general fund total revenues for the year, which ended March 31, were $935,000. Total expenditures were $858,000. The fund balance in the general fund at year’s end was $2,565,029. Overall, he pronounced the general fund to be in “excellent financial condition.”

Wisneski cautioned that they needed to watch their “extremely low” $1,307 public safety fund balance, ensuring that it didn’t go into a deficit balance.

Combined, the water and sewer

operating revenues were $2,408,000.

Total operating expenses combined were $2,175,000 for an operating income of $233,000. The township had nonoperating revenues of $47,000 for an ending net position of $13,537,629.

Wisneski also deemed the water and sewer funds to be in “good financial condition;” however, he did make note of an operating income decrease over the past few years. While he said the net position seemed to be “sufficient,” as the infrastructure ages, the cost and frequencies of repairs could grow. This could result in the balance being used up, and he advised board members to ensure that the net position stays up.

Board members approved a motion to amend the 2017-18 budget to reflect the final payment of $21,942.59 from the general fund to the sewer department for the Flynn Road construction project that was approved at last month’s meeting.

Board members approved amending the budget to include $1,824.38 in revenue from New Buffalo Township for maintenance on Townline Beach and post it to the Park Board budget maintenance expense.

Board members approved the hiring of two police officers, Brandon Jones and David Wyman. Police Chief Todd Taylor said that Jones’s previous experience includes working for the City of Bangor’s and Village of Manitowoc’s police departments and Wyman’s experience includes working for the City of Muskegon’s and City of Grand Forks, North Dakota’s police departments.

Board members approved Zoning Administrator Van Thornton to issue a one-time permit to Greenbush Brewery to provide outdoor music at their annex facility for their harvest party for Feeding America West Michigan, which was scheduled to take place from 5 to 9 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 22.

Rettig said that the event could be a “guinea pig” for the township in that it would let them gauge the public’s response to the live music and if it could be allowed in the future. She added that the time frame wouldn’t be problematic, as their current ordinance had a 10 p.m. deadline for noise levels. Sullivan added that it was the perfect weekend to try the live music, as that particular Friday fell on Apple Cider Century weekend.

Warren Dunes drowning victim dies Police have announced a Palatine, Illinois, boy who was pulled from Lake Michigan last week has died in a Kalamazoo, Michigan, hospital.

Matthew Ramirez, 4, was reportedly visiting Warren Dunes State Park with family members Tuesday, Aug. 1.

Several children left the water, and relatives later told police they thought Ramirez left with them. The boy was still in the water until good Samaritans spotted him and pulled him to shore. They performed CPR until first responders arrived to take over.

Ramirez was transported to Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph, and later air lifted to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo in critical condition. The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department reported Ramirez died shortly after midnight Saturday, Aug. 5. An autopsy was performed; however, results were not immediately available. — STAFF REPORTS

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

Premiere 24 hour fitness facility for men & women 18 years and older.

Membership options available for both full-time and part-time residents, call for details!

30 N Whittaker St • Open Da 705 W. Buffalo, New Buffalo 269-586-4280 www.eqfitnessnb.com | getfit@eqfitnessnb.com

SPIN CYCLE CLASSES OFFERED

St. Mary’s accepting preschoolers for upcoming school year

t. Mary of the Lake Preschool and Child Care Center will accept registrations for the 2017-2018 school year from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 23.

Parents should bring proof of their child’s immunizations and a copy of his/her original birth certificate. There will be a $50 registration fee per family.

St. Mary of the Lake is a state licensed preschool and child care center.

Preschool and full-time child care are available from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30p.m. for children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old.

For more information and questions, please contact Jamie Bartelheim at 269-469-1515. — STAFF REPORTS

5

R U O SS H E C 24 C A

ext weekend, visitors to the Acorn Theater can witness the intersection of two vastly different lives during “The Signal – A Doo Whop Rhapsody” at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26.

It was Christmas 1956 in Gary, Indiana, when a gift of a crystal radio captured the radio wave – “the signal” – that bounced through a boy’s unruly street life in the Steel City. The DJ’s voice on the signal was Gary’s own Vivian Carter, the first black female owner of a record label, Vee Jay Records.

The record label was the first one to introduce the Beatles to America, and heavily influenced Berry Gordy and Michael Jackson. Before all this, the label was the first to present the Four Seasons, Jerry Butler and Jimmy Reed, starting from her first hit, The Spaniels’ “Goodnight Sweetheart.”

She was a rock and roll pioneer; he was a child in a large chaotic family from Egyptian and French immigrant parents.

Though just blocks away, they only met through an antenna wire; however, she became his unseen muse in a lifelong quest for harmony culminating in a triumphant encounter on a magical street corner night.

The cast is uniquely inclusive in age, race, ethnicity and gender and includes veterans of Broadway, Lincoln Center, Voice of America and stages throughout the world. The musical features special guests, such as Rhythm & Blues Pioneer Award winners, The Spaniels, Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Willie Rogers of the Soul Stirrers and Stormy Weather.

Tickets for “The Signal” are $30 and are available online at www.acorntheater.com. The Acorn Theater is located at 107 Generations Drive in Three Oaks. — STAFF REPORTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

30 N Whittaker St Open Daily

6

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

B

Judge rules Aug. 7 recording to be disclosed

errien County Circuit Court Judge Dennis Wiley issued one ruling on a matter that was heard in the Civil Circuit Court in St. Joseph, Michigan, Monday, Aug. 10.

The case, which was brought by Raimundas Kirkus versus The City of New Buffalo and Tony Ashbaugh, involved the city’s denial of two Freedom of Information Requests (FOIA) that Kirkus submitted to obtain a copy of two DVD recordings.

One pertained to a recording of a conversation that took place Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016, and one pertained to a recording of a conversation that took place Saturday, Aug. 13, 2016. The recorded conversations took place in City Hall when the offices were closed for public business. The private Aug. 7 conversation was between Ashbaugh, who serves as the city’s street superintendent, and contract employee and former City Treasurer Debbie Lambrix. There was no mention in court of who, besides Ashbaugh, was involved in the conversation. The recordings at the center of the hearing were not played in the courtroom for the public to hear, and the judge stated that he had never heard either of them.

The city was represented by Attorney Matt Cross of Cummings, McClorey, Davis and Acho, Inc., who was hired through the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA), the Michigan Municipal Leagues (MML) risk management division.

Ashbaugh was represented by Attorney William J. Stevens of Bridgman and Kirkus was represented by Attorney Michael Homier of Foster, Swift, Collins and Smith P.C. Cross opened the hearing by stating that the city did not release the Aug. 13 recording because they couldn’t find it; however, they later learned that it was circulating around City Hall. He said that he had both recordings in his possession in the courtroom.

Cross added that the city was relying on the same exemption - a privacy exemption - for both recordings.

He said that the city was in a precarious position in this case.

“If they released the recordings they are threatened by a suit by Mr. Ashbaugh and if they did not release the recordings they were threatened by a suit by Mr. Kirkus,” he said.

Meanwhile, Stevens argued that Ashbaugh “opposes the motions for Summary Judgement and relies on the pleading he filed that asserts that the recordings were in violation of the statue.”

“He did not consent to the recordings and the recordings were unique in that they were made when the office was closed, not open to the public, and they were made in an area that there was no expectation that the conversations would be overheard,” he said.

LINDA HENDERSON IN ST. JOSEPH

With regards to the Aug. 13 recording, Homier stated nothing to rise to the level of an invasion of someone’s that the city claimed, in a correspondence, that they privacy.” didn’t have the recording due to there being a problem Regarding the Aug. 13 recording, Wiley said, “I’ve with the server and not because they couldn’t find it. He heard nothing from either side regarding the Aug. 13 said they never claimed an exemption and, in fact, never recording, other than pure speculation.” responded to the FOIA request.

Wiley then ruled that “regarding the Aug. 7, recording “To assert it now, it is too late,” he said. that is to be turned over to the plaintiff. The plaintiff Homier stated that the city admits that both prevails. It is to be disclosed.” recordings are public records. They also claim that they The Aug. 7 tape must be released seven days following are clearly an unwarranted invasion of privacy. the issuance of a court order, providing that neither of Homier said the city manager at the time the defense parties files issued counseling an appeal.

The case, which was brought by memorandums to Stevens previously Raimundas Kirkus versus The City of New various employees on the filed a federal lawsuit Buffalo and Tony Ashbaugh, involved the matter: Chief Pitchford, involving this matter city’s denial of two Freedom of Information Secretary Diana Selir and April 3, 2017, in the Requests (FIOA) that Kirkus submitted to Ashbaugh. He stated that United States District obtain a copy of two DVD recordings. One Ashbaugh responded Court for the West pertained to a recording of a conversation by saying that the District of Michigan that took place Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016, conversations were work located in Grand Rapids, and one pertained to a recording of a related.

Michigan. That suit conversation that took place Saturday, “You can’t have it both Aug. 13, 2016. The recorded conversations remains open and is ways,” Homier said, scheduled to be heard in took place in City Hall when the offices adding that “comments February 2019. were closed for public business. The that may be embarrassing private Aug. 7 conversation was between are not personal.” cting on Ashbaugh, who serves as the city’s street He said that there are the advice superintendent, and contract employee two prongs that have of Special and former City Treasurer Debbie to be met in this case: if Legal Lambrix. There was no mention in court the conversation was of Counsel to of who, besides Ashbaugh, was involved a personal nature and the City Attorney Sara in the conversation. The recordings at the if disclosure constitutes Bell Senica, the city had center of the hearing were not played in a clearly unwarranted not released the audio the courtroom for the public to hear, and invasion of privacy. recordings at the center the judge stated that he had never heard “It’s about city of the suit to the public, either of them. business, the public has a nor had they released right to know. They are a it to the parties that matter of public record,” Homier said. have filed FOIA requests for the recordings and their The judge agreed that the conversations were content, prior to Monday’s ruling.

At the Nov. 15, related to city business and not of a purely personal 2016, City Council meeting, the published minutes nature, like personal health issues. He also stated that state: “Bell spoke about disclosure of the information, the conversations were recorded on a surveillance and the possible liability to a person who republishes apparatus that exists within City Hall, where notice of the tapes or is found to disclose the information.” the surveillance is posted.

Bell made four recommendations to the city with Cross stated that the city does not believe that the regards to its current audio taping system and lack conversations were solely related to city business. He of city policies, advising that “all city employees and added that the parts of the conversation not related to elected officials who are aware of the recording be city business should be redacted. admonished accordingly. Additionally, they should On issuing a ruling in the two matters, Wiley said, “Neither side really raised anything to get me past in the again be advised that any release, discussion or any republication of any of the recordings to any person arguments. Nothing has been asserted by either party.” outside of the city would result in their actions being As far as the Aug. 7 recording is concerned, Wiley outside of the scope of their authority as a city employee said that he hasn’t “heard anything that arbitrates that or elected official.” these conversations were of a strictly personal nature -

A

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

*317933*

*317933*

FROEHLICH’S

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

317933 DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

FROEHLICH’S

317933

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

*317933*

FROEHLICH’S FROEHLICH’S

317933

FROEHLICH’S

*317933*

FROEHLICH’S

*317933* 317933

D

FROEHLICH’S FROEHLICH’S

Planning Commission recommends North Whittaker Project Phase Two site plan to city

7

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

933*

317933

www.newbuffalotimes.com

FROEHLICH

1-800-270-7117 FREE CONFIDENTIAL COUNSELING AND GUIDANCE www.gambleresponsibly.org

This advertisement sponsored by

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

FROEHLICH’S

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DINE DINE INDINE •INCARRYOUT • CATERIN IN • CARRYOUT • •CATERING DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS • CARRYOUT CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY EVENT SPACE •GOURMET GOURMET GROCERY EVENT SPACE • GROCE DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS FROEHLICH’S

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

FROEHLICH’S

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

FROEHLICH’S

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING EVENT SPACE • GOURMET GROCERY DOWNTOWN THREE OAKS

Michigan Problem Gambling Help Line

DINE IN • CARRYOUT • CATERING

FROEHLICH’S

Call before you leave these things to chance.

317933

www.marquette-hs.org

317933

BE more

317933

COMING FALL 2017

317933

uring a special Monday, Aug. 14, meeting, the New Buffalo Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council approve the site plan for Phase Two of the North Whittaker Street Redevelopment Project.

Mike Morphey of design firm Abonmarche Group gave the Commission a presentation of Phase Two’s projected timeline and scope. Pending the City Council’s approval to go out for bid, he said work is expected to begin Oct. 2017. He said work would likely stop in January and February 2018, when weather is expected to be harsh, before resuming in the spring, when resurfacing will be done.

The work will move several overhead utilities, including electricity and communications, underground and replace the water main and services, sanitary sewer and storm sewer. Some overhead utilities will remain in places where relocation is not feasible, Morphey said. The sidewalks along Whittaker Street will be widened and the street repaved. Landscaping and public benches will be installed in the final phase.

Morphey said contractors will be asked to provide bids that would tear up and replace the street and sidewalks in sections to limit the disruption to downtown businesses. He said two-way traffic will resume each evening.

Planning Commissioner Bill McCollum asked what the budget for Phase Two was.

Morphey said it was in the $2-3 million range but he did not want to give a specific number before bids were accepted.

McCollum also asked if it would be possible to change the location of bump outs and planters if new locations were deemed better. Morphey said it was possible, but would be expensive since many of the planters were located in spots where engineers had trouble making a change to the grading. City Manager David Richards added that any change would require the cost of additional engineering work, materials and additional time.

Commission Chair Paul Billingslea said the Planning Commission’s mission is to approve a plan “as a whole, not redesign it.” McCollum clarified he did not want to request changes, but did want to know if changes were feasible if necessary.

Prior to Morphey’s presentation, Ray Kirkus spoke to the Commission and claimed the project “may have been brought to the taxpayers under fraudulent and deceptive practices.” Kirkus said he had not received a response to his FOIA request regarding Tax Increment Funding (TIF) for the project but presented what he said was “an alleged email leaked from City Hall” suggesting TIF funds be used for other projects.

The site plan for Phase Two does not require a recommendation from the Planning Commission approval but the Commission voted to recommend the Council approve the plan as presented. Commissioner Ralph Hullet abstained from the vote, saying he wanted Kirkus’ letter discussed.

317933

BY THERESE DONNELLY

*317933*

*317933*

*317933*

*317933*

EAT FRESH | CATERING OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT 7 DAYS A WEEK CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN SHOPPING TWO BLOCKS FROM BEACH

207 N. WHITTAKER ST., NEW BUFFALO, MI 269-469-5055 MON-FRI: 7AM-MIDNIGHT SAT: 8AM-MIDNIGHT / SUN: 9AM-MIDNIGHT

*317933*

*317933*

*317933

8

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

16036 Red Arrow Hwy Union Pier, MI 269.469.9865

ELSIE EARL ART GALLERY Studios

ART CLASSES For more information please visit

ElsieEarlStudios.com

Studio Hours: Fri., Sat., & Sun. 1-5 pm & by Appointment 200 W. Buffalo St., New Buffalo • 734 -646-6633 Elsieearlstudios.com • Loretta@elsieearlstudios.com

See ad in this issue

Yard sale heaven on US 12

Custom Pet Portraits

by Marsha Magura

PENCIL, ACRYLIC & WATERCOLOR ARTIST

219-252-1652

marshamaguraartist

marshamaguraartist@hotmail.com

Teaching Through The Bible, Verse by Verse, Chapter by Chapter 1st Friday of the Month Free Family Movie - 7:00 pm 3rd Friday of the Month Open Mic Night - 7:00 pm Weekly Bible Studies

Sunday 10:15 am

Calvary Chapel New Buffalo 1615 East Buffalo St • Pastor Len Pera • 269-548-9980 • calvarychapelnb.org

s e id R in a r T m a e St achines working hard to & big m ten your family h g li En & in a t enter

www.hesston.org

Look for the billboard at CR 1000 North and IN-39 GPS: 1201 East 1000 North LaPorte, IN 46350

Redman & Company Dog Day Care, LLC • Climate controlled environment • All day play ti me • Separate play areas for large medium and small dogs • Overnight boarding available • Onsite supervision 24/7 • Proof of current vaccinations required • Dogs must be spayed/neutered

219 W. Madison, New Buffalo, MI 269-586-3748

U

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER

E

p and down US Highway 12, from New Buffalo to Detroit, a phenomenal sale to end all yard sales, “Michigan’s Largest Garage Sale – US 12 Heritage Route” was held Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 11-13.

From refrigerators to china and bed sheets, the annual yard sale left no stone unturned. In Buchanan, Ray Bader had his sale spread out over a score of folding tables, with most items being small and utilitarian.

“I’ve been at this kind of yard sale for 10 years, but this is the biggest and the best,” he said, adding that he started setting up at five in the morning.

Stan and Martha Detweiler from Galien, who were doing the sale for the first time, said that they were happy with their sales and were generally enjoying the crowds and the nice day. In between waiting on customers, they sat in their lawn chairs by their trailer.

(They didn’t sit much.)

Harbor Country Mission was in full swing just days after the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting at their new Sawyer store, HCM Vintage Finds. Joshua Wisner was manning the table and ground displays of china, carpets and a mixed bag of attic and basement finds. All of their profits went to the Harbor Country Mission’s projects for the community.

The Three Oaks display of roadside goods was the most overwhelming, as there were items that were spread out all throughout Carver Park and the new pavilion, and stretched into the next block. Hundreds of tables and tents held the yard sale goods, which ranged from couches and dressers to handmade jewelry, clothing and what-nots. Three Oaks’ Elm Street merchants were also doing a brisk business as a result of the massive yard sale traffic and excitement it produced. Charles Engels of Quercus Designs was thrilled with the sales he generated from his new plant and antique garden located behind Blais Rustic Chic in the old Three Oaks train depot. Owner Keek Bielby was also delighted with her sales. The French Twist was mobbed, as was BAG. In the words of Peggy Lee, it was “a good day for shinin’ your shoes and gettin’ rid of the blues.” And that they did, all along US 12’s yard sale to end all yard sales.

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

9

CALL FOR AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP ASK ABOUT OUR FREE ENROLLMENT IN OUR C.A.R.E. CLUB WHICH GIVES YOU 20% OFF FUTURE REPAIRS

OUR PHILOSOPHY: Source and showcase the tastiest meats, cheeses, produce and artisanal products the Midwest has to offer.

424 E. Buffalo Street | New Buffalo, MI (269) 231-5138 | www.localnewbuffalo.com check website for seasonal hours

Fashion TRUCK Takes to the Road Watch for Us at Area Events and Markets — or Book Us for Private Parties & Events

Do you want to become a Bus Driver?

Then TRI-COUNTY HEAD START is the place for you!

Tri County Head Start is seeking candidates for full time bus driver positions located in Berrien, Cass and Van Buren Counties.

REQUIREMENTS: Must obtain a Commercial Driver’s license with PS endorsement.

High School diploma or equivalent Safe driving record with no more than 2 minor violations (6 points maximum allowed) Must pass pre-employment drug test, DOT physical and Michigan Criminal History Check Program year/ Full-Time–Avg. 30 hrs. per week Starting pay $12.76 plus benefits and paid holidays

Go to facebook.com/indiansummerboutique1 to see where we will be next Store hours — 11am to 6pm every day

(269) 469-9994 439 S. Whittaker St., New Buffalo, MI

Visit our website www.tricountyhs.org or call (800) 792-0366 ext. 101 for an application Tri-County Head Start is an EEO employer

Your Homegrown Realtor Jason Sutton

Jason Sutton 269.326.2473 jasonsutton@atproperties.com www.jasonsuttonrealtor.com

VISIT MY WEBSITE DOWNLOAD MY APP

10

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

T 19325 US HIGHWAY 12 NEW BUFFALO, MICHIGAN 269-469-1079

1 N. Whittaker Street Suite A New Buffalo, MI 49117

269.469.3636 www.hometownpharmacy.com “Just what the doctor ordered!”

he U.S Department of Agriculture has declared August as national Tree Check Month, which is the time to be on the lookout for invasive, destructive pests threatening Michigan’s urban and forest landscapes.

The Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development, Environmental Quality and Natural Resources are asking people to take just 10 minutes this month to check trees around homes for Asian long horned beetle or any signs of the damage it causes.

Adult Asian long horned beetles are distinctively large, hanging from three-quarters of an inch to 1 1/2 inches in length not including their long antennae. The beetles are shiny black, with random white blotches or spots, and their antennae have alternating black and white segments. They have six legs that can be black or partly blue, with blue coloration sometimes extending to their feet.

The Asian long horned beetle was first identified in the United States in 1996, likely transported from Asia in wood packing materials. To date, there are no known infestations of Asian long horned beetle in Michigan; however, the beetle has been found in areas of Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Illinois and Toronto, Ontario.

“Though the beetle does not move long distances on its own, it can be transported in firewood,” said John Bedford, pest response program specialist at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. “When traveling, leave your firewood at home. Buy it at your destination point and burn it there.”

Like the emerald ash borer, the Asian long horned beetle spends most of its life cycle eating its way through the insides of trees. What makes this beetle much more dangerous is that it feeds on a wide variety of tree species. Its first choice is maple, but it also will infest birch, elm, willow, buckeye, horse chestnut and other hardwoods. Trees infested with Asian long horned

WWW.PRISTINEPOOLSPA.COM (269) 426-1251 Vinyl Liner Fiberglass Gunite Custom Design Spa Showroom

BUILDER

August is Tree Check Month

38 Yrs Experience Chemicals Pool/Spa Water Testing Home Management Snowplowing

SERVICE

RETAIL

beetle must be destroyed to prevent the insect from spreading.

Adult beetles are active in late summer to early fall. Female beetles chew depressions in tree trunks and branches to lay eggs. When larvae hatch, they burrow deep into the heartwood of the tree, creating large chambers in the wood. The next summer, fully formed adult beetles emerge from trees by boring perfectly round, three-eighths-inch-diameter exit holes.

Sometimes a material resembling wood shavings can be seen at or below these holes or coming from cracks in an infested tree’s bark.

Several native beetles and bugs often are mistaken for the Asian long horned beetle: The white spotted pine sawyer has a distinctive white spot below the base of its head – between its wings – and is brownish in color.

The cottonwood borer is about the same size as the Asian long horned beetle and also black and white – but the cottonwood borer has a pattern of single, broad black stripes down each wing, and its antennae are all dark.

The northeastern pine sawyer reaches up to 2 inches in length, has very long antennae and is gray in color.

The eastern eyed click beetle has distinctive eye-circles on the back of its head. It rolls over when threatened, then clicks and makes a flipping movement to get back on its feet.

Anyone observing an Asian long horned beetle, or a tree that appears to have been damaged by it, is asked to report it.

If possible, capture the beetle in a jar, take photos, record the location, and report it as soon as possible to the USDA at www. asianlonghornedbeetle.com or contact MDARD at 800-2923939 or MDA-info@michigan.gov.

More information can be found on the Michigan Invasive Species website’s Asian long horned beetle page, https:// www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/pests-diseases/asianlonghorned-beetle/ or by contacting MDARD at 800-292-3939 or MDA-info@michigan.gov. — STAFF REPORTS

Chiropractic Care Neuropathy Treatment 20 years experience

Massage Therapy Membership Discounts Licensed Therapists

www.newbuffalochiropractor.com

www.newbuffalowellness.com

269.469.1310 One W. Madison Ave New Buffalo

269.469.1310 One W. Madison Ave New Buffalo

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!!! | HOST YOUR GOLF OR SPECIAL EVENT HERE! TOURNAMENTS, OUTINGS | BANQUETS | CONFERENCES

• A beautiful championship 18 designed

by Ken Killian • A memorable clubhouse with excellent fare in our restaurant/bar • A bright and well-appointed pro shop • A full practice facility • Separate banquet hall • Warm hospitality throughout

Your Gateway to Pure Michigan Golf!

Experience Whittaker Woods...

12578 WILSON ROAD | NEW BUFFALO, MI 49117 | (269) 469-3400 | WWW.GOLFWHITTAKER.COM

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

CHALK BOARD

ARENA

scholastics

NBAS board members approve new school year employees, discuss school resource officer

N

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ew Buffalo Area Schools is ready and raring to go with regards to being prepared for the upcoming 2017-2018 academic year.

At their rescheduled Tuesday, Aug. 15, meeting, New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education members approved some employees for the new year, including the following coaches: Karla Madison for sixth grade volleyball and Jeffrey Olson for middle school football. Board members also approved Board Trustee Roger Lijewski as the middle school football volunteer assistant (Lijewski abstained from the vote).

Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Leslie explained that Olson was the husband of new first grade teacher Kylie Olson. While he had no previous coaching experience, Leslie said that Olson does have a lot of experience with “analyzing,” as he does scouting for college and National Football League teams.

At their rescheduled Board members also approved the Tuesday, Aug. 15, meeting, hiring of Melissa Forker as a contract New Buffalo Area Schools employee for speech therapy services.

Board of Education Leslie said that their need for speech members approved therapy grew last year, resulting in some employees for the them having to hire someone else new year, including the to assist Speech Pathologist Nancy following coaches: Karla Mrozek. Similar to who was hired last Madison for sixth grade year, Forker would also be splitting volleyball and Jeffrey her time with the River Valley School Olson for middle school District, although she would be football. Board members employed with New Buffalo Area also approved Board Schools. River Valley would cover 60 Trustee Roger Lijewski as percent of the cost and New Buffalo the middle school football would be paying 40 percent for the 180 days that Forker would be working volunteer assistant (Lijewski abstained from the vote). at the district.

Board members also prepared for the new year by adopting the 2017-2018 resolution of the Berrien-Cass-St. Joseph, or BCS, Conference. Leslie said that there were “no major changes” to this year’s conference; however, he did add that there were fewer members than previous years.

Leslie said that district maintenance workers had been putting the finishing touches on several projects, including sanding down the elementary school’s gym floor. Soon, the gym would have actual pickleball lines on it, and that they would no longer need to use tape.

“They’ve been working really hard,” Leslie said of the maintenance workers.

As a part of the district’s dual enrollment program, Leslie said 11 high school students had recently attended an orientation at Purdue University Northwest. The program allows students to earn college credit before they step foot on a college campus. The students also received a lesson from the library director, who showed them the proper way to conduct research. Leslie added that they would provide the transportation for the students to attend the classes.

As a discussion item, Board President Chuck Heit again broached the topic of employing a School Resource Officer (SRO) for the district. Previously, he said that he had discussed the matter with City of New Buffalo Police Chief Larry Pitchford.

From his experience with SROs in his past district in North Carolina, Leslie said that it was important they find someone who will interact with students and take the time to become acquainted with them.

“The key is making sure that someone is a good fit and is available for the students,” he said.

Leslie added that he also would like someone who could provide extra support for him should any security issues arise throughout the year.

Heit said they would need to look into models of contracts that were used with other school districts to aid them in creating their own.

11

sports

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

T

his week, I want to talk about mankind’s infatuation with competition. From sports to games, pros to amateurs, chance or skill, young or old, people seem to be wired to compete. I started thinking about this for a couple of reasons, and when I started to write, quite a few other examples came to mind. Let’s get started.

My thought process began when I happened upon a little league World Series game. These young people play as if their lives depend on the outcome. Their coaches and parents seem to be even more invested than the kids. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for these youngsters competing at such a high level. However, it does bother me a little when kids are told that they must concentrate on one sport when they’re 10-12 years old. I would also prefer that they play on a smaller stage. The little league has held a World Series for 70 years, but the scrutiny has intensified over the last couple of decades.

At the other end of the spectrum, Ice Cube has put together a basketball league for retired NBA Players. The BIG3 league has stars such as Alan Iverson and Charles Oakley playing in a three on three format as “old timers.” The desire to compete doesn’t fade as one ages.

I guess the competition gene is with us from birth. We compete with our siblings for our parents’ affection. We compete with our fellow students for grades. We compete in pickup games, hop-scotch, we even compete with friends for our position within the group. In my opinion, this is where we need some help. Our parents, teachers, and coaches need to teach us how to compete the right way. We need to learn to play within the rules and how to be good sports. We also must learn when we need to compete. There are places and times for everything. If we allow our competitive nature to creep into every aspect of our lives, we end up wound up like a top. Thank goodness for Harbor Country, a great place to unwind, a place where we can put the competition on the back burner and just relax and enjoy ourselves.

So how can we increase our chances of winning the competitions we are constantly engaged in? Of course, the first step is to improve ourselves. That may mean getting smarter, or stronger, faster, more focused, or whatever it takes. There will come a time when we have peaked personally and we will need some outside help. This is when we learn the value of team work. When you’re on a team and you can pitch well, you need some teammates who are good hitters. At the workplace, if you’re a good administrator, you need others who excel at sales. We all function better when we have others who have complimentary skills working with us. If only some of our politicians would remember this.

“There’s never a need to worry that someone will outshine us. It’s not a competition. We all need to shine as bright as we can, in our own unique way.

It’s not possible for there to be too much light in this world. Shine and let shine.”

I couldn’t locate the author of that quote, but it sums up how I feel. Be careful out there. Make good choices. Keep smiling. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

qualified. dedicated. innovative. real estate: full residential, condominium and commercial real estate services including sales, purchases and exchanges, family cottage planning and tax planning estate planning/proBate: powers of attorney, wills, living trusts, elder law, probate and trust administration

17656 u.s. highway 12 new Buffalo (269) 469-5297

Business law: corporations, l.l.c.s, purchases and sales, and liquor licenses

www.passarokahne.com

12

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

DDA preps for North Whittaker Street reconstruction

N

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ow that it’s August, members of New Buffalo Downtown Development Authority’s board of directors are turning their eyes toward North Whittaker Street.

Members discussed aspects of Phase Two for the North Whittaker Street Redevelopment Project at their monthly meeting Thursday, Aug. 10. Phase Two, which involves the reconstruction of North Whittaker Street from Merchant to Mechanic Streets, is slated to begin after Labor Day. Regarding actions taken by the DDA’s communications subcommittee to keep the public updated on the project, Chairman Robert Kemper reported that they were still “standing by” in terms of alerting business owners along North Whittaker Street of a detailed construction timeline. Rather, Kemper said they were waiting until the city hired a contractor for the project.

Kemper did advise business owners to keep a visual of nearby Barton Street at the height of its reconstruction (a part of the project’s Phase One), in mind with regards to the future appearance of North Whittaker Street during its impending reconstruction.

“North Whittaker Street will be torn up between Nov. 1 to April 1 for sure – if not May 1,” he said, and added that businesses will remain open throughout the construction.

In other communications subcommittee news, Kemper said he was proposing that they promote the city’s historical aspects by placing the historical markers located throughout the downtown in a more prominent place. He gave an example of the historical marker on Casey’s located In other communications to the right of one of its back doors, which subcommittee news, informs diners that that was the site of the Kemper said he was first hotel in New Buffalo. New Buffalo Business Association Executive Director Cathi proposing that they promote the city’s historical Rogers informed them that Terry Hanover, aspects by placing the who owns the Center of the World, made historical markers located the markers years ago and that Hilary Bubb throughout the downtown “engaged” him to make them. Rogers said in a more prominent place. they might want to contact them for input.

He gave an example of Board members also discussed moving the historical marker on the Zonka plaque located on the corner Casey’s located to the right of West Mechanic and North Whittaker of one of its back doors, streets and mounting it in a higher, more which informs diners that prominent location. Kemper said he’s talked that was the site of the to the public arts committee, who recently approved placing a sculpture recognizing The first hotel in New Buffalo.

New Buffalo Business Pokagon Fund and their contribution to the Association Executive city’s Downtown Initiative in the same spot Director Cathi Rogers as the Zonka plaque, about talking with the informed them that Terry Zonka family and those involved with the Hanover, who owns the plaque to make this possible.

Center of the World, made Kemper did say that he wanted the the markers years ago communications subcommittee, as well as and that Hilary Bubb New Buffalo Township, to start thinking “engaged” him to make of New Buffalo’s brand. He said that this them. Rogers said they includes the kind of font that is used on might want to contact them wayfinding signs, or, basically, how they for input. “say New Buffalo.” Kemper added that it was important that they set some branding guidelines, so that their message remains consistent.

Now that the street, parking and sidewalk site plan has been approved, board members can turn to design. Recently, design/visual impact (DVI) subcommittee members took a trip to Landscape Forms in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to view potential street amenities up close. Kemper said that the company manufactures all of its items “from start to finish” at the Kalamazoo facility, and that they have a worldwide customer base. Since they have items installed at so many locations, Kemper said they are very aware of liability issues, and that they have “huge” liability insurance.

At a previous meeting, board members discussed the possibility of having Tesla Supercharger stations in New Buffalo. At Thursday’s meeting, Kemper said he received an email from a Tesla representative in Chicago who expressed great interest in coming to New Buffalo. Kemper explained that Tesla would pay for installation; however, they wouldn’t be paying for electricity, as the city would need to cover that expense. Since it takes 45 minutes to charge a car’s battery at a supercharger station, Kemper added that Telsa was looking to install stations in areas where people could shop or take a hike while they were waiting for the charge to be complete; however, he said they didn’t want a charging station at a gas station. Currently, there are Tesla stations at Lighthouse Mall Premium Outlets in nearby Michigan City, Indiana. Drivers wouldn’t have to pay to use the station, he said.

Stirring the Coffee CAPONE’S SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

BY GAIL ISAACSON

G

rowing up in Chicago, I always heard so much about gangsters: John Dillinger, Al Capone, the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. When I travelled in Europe and told people I was from Chicago, the first two words that flew out of their mouths were Al Capone. Eleven years ago when I moved to Sawyer, Michigan, I thought I was leaving talk of Al Capone and gangsters far behind.

Boy was I wrong!

Just as we all adore Southwest Michigan, guess who else partook of its charms? None other than Al Capone and his buddies. Unlike crime weary Chicagoans, local folks looked past the most famous gangster ever. They warmed to his charm, his style and his lavish tips. And Al Capone fell in love with our fertile countryside and especially enjoyed playing golf here.

But one thing drew Capone here most of all: Southwest Michigan was the perfect place to hide.

How did Capone find Southwest Michigan anyway? When Highway 12 was completed, it connected Chicago to Detroit passing right through glorious Southwest, Michigan. Back in the nineteen twenties, members of the Chicago crime scene - involved in bootlegging - made Southwest Michigan their personal retreat. Here, they dined, played golf … and did their best to tone down their illicit side.

In nineteen twenty, prohibition was passed into U.S. law. It stipulated a nationwide constitutional ban on alcoholic beverages: their production, importation and transportation.

Prohibition remained in place from 1920 to 1933.

Isn’t it a coincidence that prohibition came at the same time Al Capone and his cronies began their flirtation with Southwest Michigan? Well It seems prohibition didn’t stop a whole lot of people from drinking. Instead, alcohol became more sought after than before.

It was an emblem of the roaring nineteen twenties. And unassuming Highway 12 became the preferred route for smugglers. They transported alcohol from Detroit’s Purple Gang to Al Capone’s organization in the nineteen twenties and thirties.

Southwestern Michigan has always been known to possess the perfect environment for growing corn and fruit. Even cautious farmers began to test the waters of bootlegging.

Compared to the dollar per bushel they were getting for corn, selling to a distillery was incredibly more lucrative.

But bootleggers shook up the peaceful cornucopia of Southwest Michigan. A

sinister crop was intruding upon the area; its name was violence. And there was no doubt that it was an outgrowth of prohibition.

Chicago was still Capone’s major domain, but Berrien County was his sanctuary. Being able to escape the law by crossing state lines made our area a haven for criminals on the lam.

Along with St. Joe and Benton Harbor, Al Capone and his cohorts indulged themselves in Coloma and Berrien Springs. They built houses in New Buffalo and Sawyer Michigan, Grand Haven and Long Beach, Indiana.

Gangsters dotted the map of Michiana like bullet casings. Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana became Capone’s personal putting green and basket of plenty.

The villages of Lakeside and Union Pier also saw their share of gangsters.

Capone himself spent time at the Lakeside Inn. Chicago mayor Anton Cermak kept a summer home in Union Pier before his 1933 assassination. The former Illinois state’s attorney, John F. Tyrrell had a vacation home in Long Beach. He is known for his role as a prosecutor during the Chicago Black Sox scandal of 1919.

Al Capone and his cronies liked it so much here that Capone convinced a fellow mobster to raise money to build a hotel in downtown Benton Harbor.

Named the Hotel Vincent, it was the finest hotel in the area - eight floors high, with an elevator. Everyone in Benton Harbor prospered from the presence of Al Capone: the waitresses at the Hotel Vincent Café, the barbers in its barber shop, frequented by Capone for close shaves, haircuts and manicures.

Especially generous tips were doled out to the elevator operators and front desk clerks. Al Capone was dropping hundred dollar bills everywhere, paying people off not to transport any person to the eighth floor of the Hotel Vincent, his private headquarters.

The Hotel Vincent still stands in Benton Harbor’s “Arts District.” I visited the former Hotel Vincent last week, now named Vincent Place. It doesn’t look luxurious at all. It is now marketing itself as an office building. I snooped around but the place was fairly deserted. I especially wanted to visit Al Capone’s former headquarters on the eighth floor. I stared at the elevator buttons in disbelief. The elevator only goes as high as the seventh floor. A nearby realtor’s sign advertised that the entire eighth floor was for lease – so there must be a way to get there.

Any takers? How about a gangster themed nightclub? Does “Bootlegger’s Hideaway” work for you?

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Calvary Chapel New Buffalo celebrates Gospel Fest

N

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ew Buffalo’s Calvary Chapel Pastor Len Pera and his wife, Cathy, welcomed guests to an evening of food, live entertainment and comradery on a late summer’s evening at Gospel Fest Saturday, Aug. 12.

A large buffet of hot dogs, hamburgers and a variety of salads and desserts was set up in the pavilion located on the large property in back of the church. According to Cathy, she and Len provided the hot dogs and hamburgers while guests provided everything else. Before and after the meal, guests could enjoy performances by the Paradise Road band.

Len said they started holding the event three summers ago, when the church first opened. He said he first talked to Bud LeMay, who plays bass in the band, to let the group “come out and play” for the day.

“So many people showed up – so we just called it Gospel Fest,” he said.

Lead vocalist Jim Kaylor, who also serves as the band’s general manager, said that the Nappanee, Indiana-based group mainly sings an “older style of music,” of classic and country gospel tunes, such as “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” He cited Elvis Presley as one of their influences.

“We preserve the old hymns and gospel songs,” he said.

Kaylor said that there are nine members in the band, although not all of them were present that night. He said they perform in a variety of venues throughout the Midwest, including fairs, festivals and churches. The group also performed at the church’s Sunday service the next morning.

Len said Gospel Fest is just one of the events that the Calvary Chapel New Buffalo holds for the community. The church hosts a family movie night at 7 p.m. the first Friday of each month, an open mic night (which Len said welcomes nonmusicians as well) at the new cafe, Calvary Coffee, located on the church’s lower floor at 7 p.m. the third Friday of the month, a men’s and women’s Bible study at 9 a.m. every Saturday and a Thursday night Bible study at 7 p.m. Church services are held every Sunday at 10:15 a.m.

Len said his journey to becoming pastor at Calvary Chapel was an interesting one. After being “laid up” so long from a motorcycle accident he had by Redamak’s in New Buffalo six years ago, he was laid off from his job at Sieman’s. He said he started taking Bible classes online, which led to him and his wife becoming involved at a church in Petoskey, Michigan.

They traveled back and forth to the church for a year and a half, during which they noticed the same church was still for sale after getting off Exit 4.

“It was just a big old, empty building,” Len said.

Soon, Len asked the owner if they could just hold some Bible classes there. The classes started with just three couples; however, it quickly grew. Since none of the Bible study participants had home churches, it wasn’t long before they started pushing Len to start his own church. “‘When will we have a church here?’” was what Len said they asked him.

And Calvary Chapel New Buffalo was born. As of last month, Cathy said they are now official owners of the church building.

Matt Ohl, who he has been attending the Calvary Chapel since it first opened, said he first became aware of it through Calvary Radio at 89.9. He said it was the sense of community that attracted him to the church, as members are always looking out for each other.

“If someone is sick, we go to the hospital, we bring food,” he said. “We’re really blessed to be here.”

For more information on Paradise Road, visit their Facebook page. To book them for a performance, contact Kaylor at 574-850-6477 or paradiseroad15@hotmail.com.

For more information on Calvary Chapel New Buffalo, visit calvarychapelnb.org. They are located at 1615 East Buffalo Street in New Buffalo.

Guests clap their hands to the tunes of Paradise Road

Mario and Amy Rosa enjoy dinner at Gospel Fest

Matt Ohl and Sara Saraphina enjoy the barbecue

Members of Paradise Road perform at Calvary Chapel pavilion (2)

13

14

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017 Jaden Lane of Yours Truly stands in front of her display of homemade soaps

Robert Carpenter stands beside his 1968 Chevy during Friday’s car show

New Buffalo celebrated during Ship and Shore WORDS BY FRANCESCA SAGALA. PHOTOS BY FRANCESCA SAGALA AND LINDA HENDERSON

F

or the 33rd year, a slew of merchants, food trucks and musicians came sailing into town during New Buffalo’s annual Ship and Shore festival, which was held last Friday through Sunday, Aug. 11-13.

This year, events kicked off with a Classic Car Show, during which vintage cars and their respective owners filled Lions Parks across from New Buffalo Public Beach. Visitors could also enjoy barbeque, hamburgers and other cuisine from food trucks parked at the park, live entertainment from Johnny V. and Friends and a dusk showing of “Grease” on a 48-by-36-foot inflatable screen. For the rest of the weekend, visitors could browse the food trucks and booths with crafts, soap, clothing and other products that lined North Whittaker Street. Live music was bursting through a 300-foot white beer tent located at the center of the street throughout the weekend. On East Merchant Street, the younger crowd could get their faces painted and try their luck at midway games.

As was tradition, a pancake breakfast hosted by the New Buffalo City Fire Department was held at the fire station. The traditional ice cream-eating contest with ice cream provided by Nancy’s Ice Cream Shop was also held Sunday afternoon.

The event was presented by the New Buffalo Business Association (NBBA). NBBA Executive Director Cathi Rogers said she was enjoying seeing visitors as well as locals just walking around and having fun.

“I’m just beyond pleased,” she said.

Rogers said she was especially pleased to see people who were attending the festival “utilizing” the downtown. In addition to enjoying the festival, she said she saw visitors going in and out of the stores located along North Whittaker Street. Local businesses also had a prominent place at the festival, as Rogers added that they made an effort this year to welcome area merchants, food vendors and bands. Promoting the local community was one of her goals for the festival, she said.

“It’s about showing off our area,” she said.

Conall Stutesman and Ada O’Brien enjoy corn on the cob at Lions Park Friday evening

Redamak’s was one of the food vendors at Lions Park Friday evening

(back row, left to right) Anya, Nathan, Sydney (front row, left to right) Dillon and Violet Hopkins

Grace Pooley, Manelle Hafayed, Dann Niven and Caron Christy

Willa, Charley and KJ Sellers enjoy their Kona Ice snowcones

Matt Hollander with Matt Grant and Nash

Mr. Blotto rocks it

Nancy and Bob Gino, Jim Sima with John and Patty Thorn

Hillary Bubb with granddaughter Gabby

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017 Joe Kaplan and Nathan Hopkins sit between their 1971 Triumph (left) and 1978 Triumph Spitfire

Henry Daniel Donnelley

Lea Oedzes with Ben Westergren

Conner and Colton Stillwell with Amelia and Morgan Siuta

15

Jon Hook works on pottery at his booth

Rose Dudiak with Rich Smurawski, Cliff Dudiak and Carol Smurawski

Mike James, Juli Westergren, Steve Adney with Mort

WYSIWYG takes the stage Saturday afternoon

Harbor Country Rotary Club giving back

T

Vince Lauricella and D’Agostino

Ice Cream Contest Winners Justin Delpup and Chloe; with Cathi Rogers and New Buffalo Royals

he New Buffalo Fire fighters held their traditional Pancake and Sausage breakfast on Sunday of Ship and Shore. While adults enjoyed hotcakes, cooked to perfection, the kids climbed onto fire trucks and experienced the thrill behind the big wheel. In the afternoon Nancy’s hosted the Ice Cream Eating contest with a Boys and Girls winner. Chloe and Justin Delpup each received Nancy’s Gift Certificates for being the fastest eaters. Mr. Blotto brought the festival to a close on Sunday evening, with a packed and rockin’ beer tent. Their group of loyal followers brought their traditional Hula Hoops and the dancer’s danced the afternoon away. By all accounts, everyone had a great weekend in Downtown New Buffalo celebrating the 33rd Ship and Shore Festival.

16

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Jillson and Meyes named BCYF king and queen, Hunn and Carr named princess and prince

R The Best Tasting Steaks Around & fresh seafood too!

For a full menu visit patricksgrille.com or

Open Tues-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri 11am-10pm Sat 4pm-10pm Patrick’s Grille is a 21 and over establishment

4125 Franklin St. Michigan City IN, 46360 219-873-9401

STTH RRO UO N G G H E V E RY

S TF OOR 1R0 0M YEARS

For life’s unexpected storms, Auto-Owners Insurance and your local independent agent will be there when you need us most - just like we have been for 100 years.

ecently, Lillian Jillson of Buchanan, Michigan, and Ben Myers of Hartford, Michigan, have been named King and Queen of the Berrien County Youth Fair The new royalty was chosen Friday, Aug. 11, during a contest in the Grandstand at the fairgrounds. First runner-up to the king is Ryder Zielke of Stevensville, Michigan. First runner-up to the queen is Serena Sommer of Eau Claire, Michigan.

In addition to show at their own exhibits, the new king and queen will spend the week serving as public relations representatives of the fair, handing out ribbons and trophies and attending ceremonies and concerts.

Jillson is an 18-year-old student at Lake Michigan College, where she plans to pursue a degree in Science and eventually further her studies at Michigan State University in the medical field. She shows in the equine, rabbit, home economics, crafts, horticulture and flower departments. She is the daughter of Darrin and Melissa Jillson. Myers is a 16-year-old student at South Haven High School. He shows in the equine, rabbit and swine departments. He is the son of Doug and Lisa Myers.

Sommer is an 18-year-old student at Eastern 2017 King and Queen Michigan University, where she plans to pursue Ben Myers and Lillian Jillson a degree in nursing. She shows in the sheep and swine departments. She is the daughter of Sharon Sommer and Troy Cochran. Zielke is an 18-year-old graduate of Lakeshore High School who has joined the construction workforce.

He shows in the home economics, crafts and horticulture departments. He is the son of Norm and Jan Zielke.

Just before the king and queen contest, the Berrien County Youth Fair held its sixth annual Prince and Princess Contest. The contestants were aged anywhere between 9 and 12 years old and were required to be a current BCYF exhibitor. Belle Hunn of St. Joseph, Michigan, and Gavin Carr of Stevensville will serve as this year’s BCYF Prince and Princess.

2017 Prince and Princess Duties of the prince and princess are similar Gavin Carr and Belle Hunn that of the duties of the king and queen, so fairgoers can be sure to see them around the fair attending various ceremonies and also serving as public relations representatives.

Hunn is nine years old. She shows in the home economics, crafts, flower, and horticulture departments. She is the daughter of Jason and Angela Hunn. Also nine years old, Carr shows in the crafts, horticulture, beef, swine, poultry, and rabbit departments. He is the son of Becky Hein and Scott Totzke.

The 72nd annual “Fairdise”-themed Berrien County Youth Fair kicked off Monday, Aug. 14, and ends Saturday, Aug. 19. — STAFF REPORTS

Gregory A. Bubb, CIC

HARBOR COUNTRY INSURANCE www.harborcountryinsurance.com 212 S. Whittaker St. • New Buffalo, MI 269-469-4438 LIFE

•

HOME

•

CAR

•

BUSINESS

219-873-9401

219-873-9401

N

www.newbuffalotimes.com

N

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

17

Council clears way for Phase II

BEACH REPLENISHMENT COULD BE ON THE WAY

o one in the audience at the New Buffalo City Council on August 15 seemed surprised when the Council voted to approve putting Phase II of the Whittaker Street Redevelopment Project out for bid.

Mike Morphey of project managers Abonmarche gave a presentation to the Council of the planned work, which he expects to begin in October 2017 (See Planning Commission page 7). During the initial work, he said, boat transports would be rerouted along Willard Street.

Mayor Lou O’Donnell IV asked if the planned route had been checked for overhead lines. Morphey said he would verify that. O’Donnell also suggested communicating with marinas and condominium associations that might be affected by the detour. Morphey agreed to do so.

Questions have recently been raised regarding how the project is being paid for. DDA Board Chair Robert Kemper addressed suggestions that funding is being used contrary to the way plans were presented to the public. He said money from the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) will be used towards bonds, but the DDA has to be maintained through some of the TIF funding. He added anyone with questions could contact him.

The Downtown Development Authority was established to improve and grow the main business district.

The TIF district is an area within a city that consultants determine needs governmental intervention in order to attract private development and increased economic growth. Once a TIF is established, it freezes property tax levels assessed by other taxing bodies and reallocates any increased taxes caused by development within the TIF to encourage further development. Under New Buffalo’s plan, the North Whittaker Street project will be paid for with bonds that the DDA will repay as the TIF generates money.

Councilmember Mark Robertson addressed the city-owned property on Jameson Street that had recently been cleared and leveled to eliminate standing water. He noted city ordinances allow for improvements to city property without a bid and that the city code included provisions and exemptions for municipal business. Councilmember Liz Ennis added that the Council has held numerous meetings and that citizens are involved with committees to the downtown projects.

“We have followed all of the legal requirements in making this project happen,” she said.

Business is growing on Whittaker Street. The Council untabled a request to transfer the ownership of a Class C&SDM liquor license to Bear & Bee LLC, which owns David’s Deli at 30

THERESE DONNELLY IN NEW BUFFALO

N. Whittaker Street. Co-owner Emma Brewster was present at the meeting to address the Council. Ennis apologized for Brewster not being made aware the matter was on the July agenda and said she felt it was important that the public understand why the business wanted to add alcohol service. Brewster explained that they were looking to extend their hours of operation and there isn’t much demand for the current fare of coffee and sandwiches in the evening. The restaurant currently closes at 6 p.m. six days a week and 2 p.m. one day.

Brewster said they were not looking to make a significant change to how they operated, but would possibly add a service bar that would not be visible or accessible during the breakfast and lunch service.

After hearing from Brewster the Council voted to approve the resolution.

Later in the meeting the Council approved a contract with artist Fritz Olsen for the sculpture to be placed on Whittaker Street in recognition of the Pokagon Band and The Pokagon Fund’s contributions to the community.

The contract requires $30,000 to be paid upfront, and the remaining $30,000 paid upon delivery. The City will be responsible for site preparation, foundation and maintenance.

The Council also received possible good news regarding beach erosion.

Speaking to the Council, Berrien County Commissioner Ezra Scott said he had recently been among county commissioners invited to a conference with cabinet leaders at the White House. While there, he spoke with several federal authorities regarding renourishment of New Buffalo beaches.

Scott said the afternoon before the Council meeting he had received an email stating a FEMA grant for beach protection was in process and it would likely be fast tracked.

Scott’s announcement was met with applause from the audience.

The Council recognized Assistant Treasurer Nancy Mast for 25 years of service to the city.

While no personnel matters were on the agenda, several audience members spoke to the Council regarding the future of Building Inspector Ed Carpenter, Electrical Inspector Charlie Basinger and Plumbing Inspector John Dobberteen. Everyone who spoke on the matter praised the inspectors and urged the council not to dismiss them, as it has been reported the three have been asked to resign. Several contractors said if they have to rely on state inspectors, who only come once a week, their work will be slowed down and homeowners will be frustrated by delays. Basinger spoke to the Council and said he had been asked to resign but had no intention of doing so, noting he has worked for the city since 1985 and has received very few complaints about his work.

During public comment, the Council also heard about a matter O’Donnell said he planned to address during council comments at the end of the meeting. Ron Watson, President of the Sunset Shores Homeowners Association, told the Council there has been an increasing problem with short-term rentals in the subdivision and other parts of town. He noted Sunset Shores is zoned for singlefamily residences and the short-term rentals violate this and create several safety issues as the large number of people using one house often exceeds occupancy limits, the increased number of vehicles blocks the streets and garbage is often left overflowing for several days before collection, attracting pests. Watson said there have been incidences of hot embers spreading from open fire pits to neighboring homes.

O’Donnell said he had been planning to raise the issue during the council comments portion of the meeting and that he plans to hold work sessions on the matter in the fall. He recommended residents contact the city when they see violations.

D

espite some expressed reservations, on the recommendation of the Planning Commission, the Council approved site plans for Mosaic Properties’ proposed development at 112 and 114 N. Barton Street. Councilmember Liz Ennis was the lone dissenter. She stressed that she is not against Mosaic’s plans, she felt the proposed density would impact the neighborhood and said the city needed to be careful in balancing the needs of year-round residents, economic development and visitors.

“If we mess that balance too badly we are going to regret it,” she said.

City Manager David Richards said Mosaic’s site plan met all the conditions of the zoning ordinance for the location.

O’Donnell said he agreed with Ennis’ concerns on density but said the Council could not deny a site plan that fit the zoning. Planning Commission Chair Paul Billingslea spoke from the audience to say the Commission saw the proposed project twice and while he understood their concerns, any other development would further increase the density.

“This is the least intense use we will see on that property,” he told the Council.

Richards presented the Council with a resolution to increase water rates in the city. He noted the last change to any of the rates came in 2010. The new rate increases the price of water by 25 cents per 1000 gallons to $3.41, ready to serve costs will now be $14.02, tap-in fees will go to $2000 per inch, the on/ off fee will go to $15 and the delinquent

on/off fee of $50 will now be collected upfront. O’Donnell explained to the audience that the increase will help the city recoup the costs of the Lighthouse Creek Drain Authority, which the City is required to pay $65,000 per year towards. Councilmember Mark Kroll noted the price changes will come to about and additional $3 per household.

City services will be going out for bid soon. O’Donnell explained the city might be able to save money by using other providers for some services.

He noted it appeared New Buffalo is paying significantly more than other municipalities for financial audit services. The City has a current contract with Gerbel and Co., PC for this year’s audit but will seek bids for next year.

Waste and recycling services will also go for bid, though O’Donnell noted current provider Lakeshore Recycling and Disposal’s rates were good compared with what companies charged other cities.

The Council approved a construction contract with the State of Michigan for the Safe Routes to School Sidewalk project. The work will install sidewalks in 13 locations in the city leading to schools. Councilmember Mark Robertson verified with Richards that the city had received all necessary documents from MDOT and the Federal Highway Administration to proceed.

After a second reading, the Council approved Ordinance 221 to disband the Civil Service Board. They also passed Ordinance 222, which repeals the business licensing ordinance and the taxi licensing ordinance. Richards explained the business licensing has not been enforced and Michigan State law now regulates taxi and livery services.

The Council voted to pass resolution 17.19 to transfer two licenses from Camp Buffalo Cottages, Inc., which has formally dissolved, to Camp Buffalo Cottages Condominium Association.

The Council accepted $3500 from the William J. Deputy Grant for improvements to the Dunewalk at the city beach. They also approved purchasing asset management hardware for the city’s sewer system using Stormwater, Asset management and Wastewater (SAW) Program grant funds not to exceed $21,800. The City has already used SAW funds to purchase a GIS software and license for the system. Richards said the city budget would be amended to reflect the purchase.

The Council accepted a letter of resignation from Planning Commissioner Pat Fisher, who wrote he felt that his family obligations and commitments to other organizations prevented him from giving the Planning Commission the energy and attention he thought it deserved. Fisher’s resignation was effective July 24, 2017.

18

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

CHIKAMING OPEN LANDS TO HOST SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING PARTY

C

hikaming Open Lands (COL) is celebrating the solar eclipse by hosting a solar eclipse viewing party from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, at Chikaming Township Park and Preserve.

The solar eclipse, which will be viewable locally around 12:45 to 3:30 p.m., will briefly turn daylight into twilight. While partial solar eclipses occur regularly, often two or three times annually, it is rare for the United States to be in the path of a total eclipse. No similar opportunity is available again until April 8, 2024, and then Aug. 12, 2045.

While the viewing will take place from 1 to 3:30 p.m., the best time to see the solar eclipse will be at 2:15 p.m. COL will provide a limited number of viewing glasses, so guests should bring their own or create a pin hole viewing box. The event will take place weather permitting.

“At a moment when our eyes are cast upward, we want to offer our neighbors a natural setting to enjoy this natural phenomenon,” said Casey Struecker, COL Education and Outreach Coordinator. “Chikaming Open Lands is happy to host the public at Chikaming Township Park and Preserve for the solar eclipse viewing party. Together, we can better appreciate all the natural world offers us.”

For more information about the eclipse and appropriate safety precautions for viewers, visit https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov.

COL is the local land conservancy dedicated to preserving the open spaces and natural rural character of southwest Berrien County. COL works to protect and restore native plant and animal habitat, improve water quality, and permanently preserve ecologically significant forests, prairies and wetlands, as well as prime farmland and other open spaces in this area. COL serves nine townships in southwest Berrien County, and has been instrumental in preserving more than 1,680 acres of open space since its founding in 1999.

Chikaming Township Park and Preserve is located on West Warren Woods Road between I-94 and Lakewood Estates in Chikaming Township, Michigan.

— STAFF REPORTS

UNION PIER POST OFFICE TO HOLD ECLIPSE STAMP EVENT

T

he Union Pier Post Office will hold a special solar eclipse event from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21.

Total solar eclipse stamps and envelopes, along with First Day convers, digitally enhanced computer postmarks and special albums and folders, will be on hand. Union Pier will have its own special cancellation stamp that will only be able on Monday; however, those wanting a cancellation mark on their first class postage for 30 days after the event may request it if they provide a return address.

The Union Pier Post Office will have a big tent on the property, with Black Currant Bakehouse and Nani’s featuring eclipse-themed baked goods and other treats. A vendor with older cache stamps (mini works of art) will be available for stamp collecting.

There will also be an artist with eclipse related jewelry and other artistic renderings, specialist eclipse tiedyed shirts and other astronomically inspired items.

The post office will have special glasses for sale at $2 each, so everyone can afford to watch the eclipse directly.

The post office is located at 16201 Red Arrow Highway in Union Pier. — STAFF REPORTS

Civil War encampment at Dewey Cannon Park

T

hroughout this weekend, the Three Oaks sesquicentennial organization will be presenting a Civil War reenactment camp in Dewey Cannon Park in Three Oaks, Michigan.

The following is the schedule of events and the Union and Confederate Infantry that will take part in the encampment activities: Friday, Aug. 18: The encampment will open at 9 a.m., followed by a musket demonstration at 10 a.m. A reenactment will be at noon, followed by a Civil War memorial service at 3 p.m. Another reenactment will take place at 4 p.m., followed by a Final Call at Forest Lawn Cemetery at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 19: The encampment will open at 9 a.m., followed by a musket demonstration at 10 a.m. There will be a presentation by The 12th Michigan: The Southwest Michigan Civil War Round Table at 11 a.m. in the Arts and Education Center. A reenactment will be at noon, followed by a chance to meet General Custer and General Lee at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively. Another reenactment will take place at 4:30 p.m., followed by Music in the Park at 6:30 p.m.

Today’s Tenth Michigan Infantry is a statewide organization of Civil War reenactors and living historians. Founded in 1976 for the U. S. Bicentennial, it remains one of the oldest reenactment units in continuous existence in Michigan. It is patterned after the original Tenth Regiment Michigan Volunteer Infantry, which served throughout the American Civil War from November 1861 to August 1865. The 12th Michigan: The Southwest Michigan Civil War Round Table is an educational and historical group focused on the American Civil War. They meet monthly in St. Joseph, Michigan.

The 7th Arkansas Infantry, Co. E unit was mustered in Smithville, Arkansas, July 16, 1861, and then inducted into Confederate Service a month later at Camp Shaver near Pocahontas, Arkansas. The 17th South Carolina, Company C unit was mustered into service in 1861 in York County, South Carolina. Brigadier General Nathan George “Shanks” Evans originated this brigade, which was known as the “Tramp Brigade.” The Texas Brigade travelled on their own hook to Richmond, where they were mustered into regiments and accepted into Confederate service. They were the only units from west of the Mississippi in Lee’s army.

Tom Peacock has portrayed General George Armstrong Custer for 18 years. He is a combat wounded Vietnam veteran. Paul Wood has portrayed General Robert E. Lee for 18 years and is one of the founders of “Grant, Lee, Custer and Company,” a first person troupe consisting of 14 famous Civil War generals. — STAFF REPORTS

Harbor Country Hikers to visit Warren Woods State Park

H

ikers can get an up-close view of what Michigan looked like before the Europeans arrived during a Harbor Country Hikers outing at Warren Woods State Park at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.

The park is home to the last climax beechmaple forest in the state, with specimens up to 125-feet tall and more than five feet in diameter. The tree is an example of what the first European explores must have seen as they made their way across western Michigan.

Harbor Country Hikers has also scheduled a trail blazing hike through Robinson Woods/Flynn Woods at noon Saturday, Sept. 9, and an exploration of biodiversity versus invasive at Hoadley Trail at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16.

Further information is available at harborcountryhikers. com. Warren Woods State Park is located on Elm Valley Road, between Red Arrow Highway and Three Oaks Road.

— STAFF REPORTS

Library symposium to highlight eradication of Japanese knotweed

The Southwest X Southwest Corner Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) will be hosting a symposium from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the New Buffalo Township Library to provide education to the public about the effects and control of highly invasive Japanese knotweed.

The symposium will be the culmination of previous events throughout Southwest Michigan that have provided awareness and education about the impact of this aggressive plant in local communities. Japanese knotweed outcompetes native species by forming dense monocultures and by emitting chemicals in the soil to prevent the establishment of native plants. In addition to negatively impacting native plant communities, Japanese knotweed is also capable of invading urban landscapes by growing through concrete and asphalt. Knotweed is also a threat to public infrastructure, buildings, sewers, septic systems and contributes to erosion.

This symposium will highlight the steps that municipalities have taken to prevent the spread and establishment of Japanese knotweed in their communities.

There will be a presentation from the City of St. Joseph that will discuss the impacts of Japanese knotweed in the city and the steps they have taken to eradicate the plant. There will also be a guest speaker who will discuss an eradication strategy and their experience with treating the invasive plant. At the conclusion of the presentation, there will be an opportunity for public discussions and questions The free event is open to the public. Register by contacting Jared Harmon at the Berrien Conservation District at (269) 471-9111 x 3 or emailing jared.harmon@macd.org The SW X SW Corner CISMA is a grant-funded organization working to help land owners, local governments, and concerned citizens understand and manage the invasive species threats in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.

The CISMA is funded in part by the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program, through the Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Rural Development. — STAFF REPORTS

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Inspired by nature...and out-of-office replies.

22 home sites beautifully set in nature, minutes from downtown New Buffalo.

Pool, sun lounge, fishing pond, community gathering spaces, and not a care in the world.

Open House Party this Saturday 5-7 PM EST with sponsored refreshments whitepinenewbuffalo.com ¡ Liz Roch: 312.636.8751 ¡ 13369 Wilson Road, New Buffalo

At World Properties Michigan, LLC, a subsidiary of At World Properties, LLC

19

20

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

REAL ESTATE

Waterfront Property in the Heart of Harbor Country

LAKEFRONT • NEWS • BANKING STATISTICS • FOR LEASE NOW FOR SALE • CONSTRUCTION

MORTGAGE RATES

4.04 acres & 300’ of frontage on Lake Michigan

30 Year Fixed Jumbo...... 4.52%

15860 Lakeshore Rd., Union Pier, MI 49129 Unique parcel of real estate & one of the most spectacular lakefront properties available in Southwest Michigan. Low bluff, sandy beach, and many majestic trees.

This historic property has been home to the family-operated “Gintaras Resort”. Includes 14 vintage, fully-equipped rentable units, plus tennis court & game building.

30-Year Fixed................. 4.04% 15-Year Fixed Jumbo....... 3.93% 15-Year Fixed................. 3.20%

US CDS (NATIONAL AVERAGE) 1 year................................ .58 6 month............................. .34 1 month............................. .10 KEY RATES Fed Fund Rate....................

Fed Reserve Target Rate....

Prime Rate.........................

US Unemployment Rate......

.37 .75 3.5 4.6

Offers significant potential with existing set-up, or use as a family compound, or this would be a fantastic site to build a one-of-a-kind lakefront estate.

Jerry Olson, Associate Broker c. 269-484-4578 e: jerryolson@cressyeverett.com www.jerryolson.cressyeverett.com

There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow men.

True nobility lies in being superior to your former self.

— Ernest Hemingway

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

Rob Gow Chris Pfauser

13592 Prairie Road, Harbert $2,950,000 | 6bd, 7ba

312 Marquette Drive, New Buffalo $1,750,000 | 3bd, 2ba NEW LISTING

ShorelineAdvice.com 269.612.4104

50 Pocantico Trail, Michiana $975,000 | 3bd, 5ba

11798 Riviera Drive, New Buffalo $819,000 | 4bd, 3ba

46110 Wildwood Drive, Grand Beach $799,000 | 4bd, 3ba

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

30 West Buffalo Street | New Buffalo, Michigan 50231 Marjeanette Avenue, Grand Beach $705,000 | 4bd, 3ba

900 North Drive, New Buffalo $619,000 | 3bd, 2ba

1501 W Water Street #40, New Buffalo $539,000 | 3bd, 3ba

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

H a r b o r S h o re s Li f e . c o m

Imagine what they’ll remember!

GOLF

|

REAL

ES TATE

|

M A RIN A

|

HOT E L

B e n t o n H a r b o r | S t . J o s e ph

21

22

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

PUBLIC NOTICES VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH IS HIRING A DEPUTY-CLERK Part-time approximately 22-28 hours per week M-F. Minimum 2 yrs. clerical, customer service & bookkeeping. Proficient in Word, Excel & Quickbooks.

See full details and job description at grandbeach.org.

Send cover letter, application & resume to 48200 Perkins, Grand Beach, MI 49117 or deputyclerk@grandbeach.org.

No phone calls please.

EOE

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

WOOD LOOK VINYL PLANKING SNAP TOGETHER FLOATING FLOORS 13 COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM $2.27 SF FULL CARTONS ONLY LET’S DO IT TOGETHER

269-469-8453 Harbor Time Professional Cleaning Services LLC

ADVERTISING . MARKET . DIGITAL

New Buffalo Times

Residential/Commercial Weekly — Daily — Monthly Special Occasions Free Estimates

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

LOUISE SAYDEE

269-231-5763

LOUISE@HABORTIMEPCS.COM

Professionals in all of your tree care needs

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

Commercial • Residential 37 Years Experience • Insured Dennis Jeffers, sr.

219-393-3155 maplecitytree@comcast.net

www.newbuffalotimes.com

W

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

23

‘Lady Elvis’, Sally Grayson of Black Swift Hits Stride

hen Samu Haber from “The Voice of Germany” called Sally Grayson of “Black Swift” music a “lady Elvis”, she took it as a compliment. “A more accurate description would be ‘Post-Punkified Americana [N’ Roll] lady Elvis’ as I still have a good amount of teenage rebel that needs to scream out in some good old punk rock,” quipped Grayson.

Since Black Swift’s release of their critically acclaimed debut album, “The World Howls” in 2014; and, her “TEDx Talk” on the importance of catharsis; “New Buffalo Times” cover story; and, TV performances on “Balcony TV” and “The Voice of Germany” in 2016, the New Buffalo, Michigan native and Stuttgart, Germany denizen has been immersed in the production of art and music. When it comes to taking on what her soul has been born to fulfill, namely to “change the world through music”, Grayson is quite keen to make a splash.

The charismatic chanteuse talks about creative process, the long anticipated 2017 “See Me Human” album release and USA tour, which kicks off with shows on August 23 at Subterranean in Chicago; August 24 at David’s Deli in New Buffalo; August 25 at Smith’s Downtown in Mishawaka, IN; and, August 26 at The Livery in Benton Harbor.

A sense of wonder and breadth of vision are expressed in the band’s development of great ideas and epiphanies.

While traveling to Dresden, Germany to record in the beautiful Castle Rohrsdorf, Grayson recognized chance as an artistic asset: “There are always these moments of serendipity especially in the recording studio. I was making lunch and cut my finger really deep, so I wasn’t able to play guitar for about 3 days.” Grayson continued, adding “Since we were tracking live, this made things very challenging; so, for one song, ‘Down in Tennessee’, instead of playing the guitar, I played the melody on the harpsichord. Arno Jordan, the engineer had the idea to mic it and then play it through a number of distorted amps, which created such an amazing atmosphere and brought such a character to the song that we would have never discovered had I just played the guitar.” Contributing diverse musical styles into their sounds, Black Swift members David Arzt (“Jumbo Jet”) on guitar, Bertram Oeler (“Carver”) on bass, and Zar Monta Cola (“Jennifer Rostock”, “Warm Graves”, “The Hug”, “Jumbo Jet”) on drums, capitalize on the chance to do something unusual or different.

Grayson employs fortuity as a tool when it comes to visual art and collage work. Drawn to vintage images that she finds in old magazines from the

BY ALEXANDER FATOUROS

1950s, 1960s and 1970s, Grayson gives an explanation of her aesthetic: “I’m so thankful to incorporate my art into my songs as I draw from rock n’ roll and punk from these eras. The compositions that I create are often a little on the dark side; a little twisted, and on the strange side of things; but, I always try to also incorporate hope in them as well. I love this part of the creative process to create my collages.” Grayson continued, adding, “I cut out and lay out all sorts of images on large tables. I am intentional in searching out what visually works together and what I want to communicate. However, it is by chance that certain images lay next to each other and it catches my eye to keep them together.”

On a challenge where a creative solution is called for, Grayson continued, adding, “This is the same aesthetic I use in my songwriting. I love writing in minor chords and creating soundscapes that are dark and often brooding, but I always need to find hope in the songs. Black Swift music has been described as ‘happiness in minor chords’ and that aesthetic is intertwined in my visual work as well.”

Regarding expression of ideas in 4D Time Arts, Grayson gives an account: ”Before releasing our single, ‘Called to Love’, I knew we

it’s not over yet! I’m so thankful for the would need a music video to go with it. I started experimenting with stop motion exposure I’ve gotten through being on animation with my collages.” Grayson’s ‘The Voice of Germany’ and through my husband, Markus Merkle, a prizewinner ‘TEDx Talk’. Through these experiences artist, lent her the equipment for the I’ve gained many new fans and many project. Grayson continued, adding, opportunities have open up.” Grayson “Stop motion collage was super fun to continued, adding, “Booking shows has work with. I had some friends help with gotten easier as I connected with the PR also filming my band and myself and Manager of my coaches from ‘The Voice’ took the material all back home and [Michi and Smudo from German group edited it myself. This is A LOT of work, “Die Fantastischen Vier”] and she helped but it’s a labor of love—I really love this to promote my album, and I think that kind of creative work.” momentum really helped us to have a When it comes to passion, inspiration successful crowd funding campaign.” and the opportunity to do something amazing, Grayson has the willingness here are empowering to go the distance, adding “I’m influences about that put you very excited about our upcoming in touch with the wider social #SEEMEHUMANUSA tour. My bass world now. “The [new] album player and drummer will also be heading is very hard hitting; it starts over from Germany and for some shows out heavy and in your face with a song, we might have some guest musicians such as “Bang! Bang!” That is a violent join us for some songs but most of the song against violence. Then a song called time we will be playing as a 3 piece. We’ll “Refuge” where I try to imagine if I were travel down to Nashville, TN and up to a refugee what I would want to say,” Minneapolis, MN with many stops in expressed Grayson. between [www.BLACKSWIFTMUSIC. Grayson shares a sudden revelation com].“ that offers freedom: “The album slows Drawing in the energy of each note, down as it progresses, except for a Grayson gives an explanation for the fifty-eight second punk-rock song that feeling of gratitude in her heart: “I’m screams to be understood and against very pleased at how our stereotyping album turned out. It was one another. then an honor to pass BLACK SWIFT After all the the songs onto Gabriel #SEEMEHUMANUSA catharsis Sullivan [of Dust & TOUR and working Stones Recording • Aug 23 @ Subterranean, through the Studio] who plays Chicago, Illinois hardships in one of my • Aug 24 @ David’s Deli, favorite bands, of what’s New Buffalo, Michigan ‘XIXA’. He has happening • Aug 25 @ Smith’s Downtown, a special way in the world, Mishawaka, Indiana of adding more we end the • • Aug 26 @ The Livery, personality and record with the Benton Harbor, Michigan depth to the songs song “Sugar • Aug 27 @ The Listing Loon, through his style of Mountain” Cincinnati, Ohio mixing.” which is a • Aug 28 @ The Nirvana, With regard to comfort song— Louisville, Kentucky communing with music imagining if • Aug 30 @ The Family Wash, from a place of love and everything Nashville, Tennessee compassion and on were perfect • Aug 31 @ Skeletunes, moments of revelation Fort Wayne, Indiana and how it that seem to emphasize • Sept 1 @ House Show, should be.” the upside, Grayson Minneapolis, Minnesota Grayson gives an explanation: • Sept 2 @ 331 Club, continued, “When we gather Minneapolis, Minnesota adding, all the dark and • Sept 3 @ House Show, “We are still difficult moments Minneapolis, Minnesota awaiting the together with • Sept 4 @ House Show, arrival of the all the light Osh Kosh, Wisconsin vinyl, but for and beautiful now we printed moments, we can step back a CD and I created an art magazine and see the unique and where I created a collage that visually intricate mosaic that each represents each song. In the magazine one of our individual lives centerfold is a protest poster that says are,” expressed Grayson.

SEE ME HUMAN. This is the heart of Her predilection for the record—to see each other as human— taking on a challenge where a creative solution just as equally valuable as we are.”

Grayson devotes her time and energy is called for is unequivocal. toward her Divine life purpose, which is Grayson reflects on life moving not only to embrace the opportunities onward and upward and how her that change brings, but also to “inspire efforts are beginning to achieve a pace people and be a catalyst for change”, and vitality: “It’s been a very exciting journey—and the great thing is that which is very much needed in this world.

T

24

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

CLASSIFIED ADS

PUBLIC NOTICES

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD, PLEASE CONTACT

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 $10 per week for a classified ad of up to 160 characters. Deadline is Friday 5PM before the following week’s publication.

FOR RENT

STORAGE BARN 20 Ft. x 60 Ft. Storage Unit.

Pull Thru Bay, 2 – 14 Ft. doors, insulated, renter can heat. $575 per month. State Road 39 Storage. Available July 10.

219-362-8817 NEW BUFFALO Apt. Large 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 2nd floor, water incl.

No Smoking, no pets $575/mo.

Contact 269-612-2889.

NEW BUFFALO House 3 bedroom, 1 bath completely remodeled, all appliances and central air. No smoking. No pets. $875/mo.

Contact 269-612-2889.

4 bedroom home 2 bath.

Available until May 13. $1500 with utilities.

269-470-5838.

UNION PIER Furnished 3 Br 2 Bath apartment. Updated, hardwood floors, fireplace, central heat and air conditioning. 2 blocks to beach access. New Buffalo Schools $1150 + Utilities Call Diane 312-480-9530 NEW BUFFALO 5 bedroom 2 bath home on large wooded lot. Walkable to town and beach. Detached 2 car garage and storage shed. Central heat and air conditioning. $1275 + utilities.

Call Diane 312-480-9530 UNION PIER 2 bedroom Lake Cottage, unfurnished. Year round. $975 per month, plus utilities Call 219-898-7512 NEW BUFFALO 2 BOAT SLIPS AVAILABLE 35 Ft. South Cove slip and 30 Ft. Mooring slip. Each slip has full amenities available for the season. Includes; Water, electric, dock box, pool, restrooms with showers and a parking space. Cable and Wi-Fi is also available for a fee.

For information, call Tom at 630-638-0608.

NEW BUFFALO Live year round in New Buffalo!

2 and 3 bedroom apartments available September 1st.

Large apartments with quiet living. No pets.

Call for more information.

269-469-1364 NEW BUFFALO Cozy Country Cottage on 2 acres, two bedrooms, fireplace, stove, frig, w/d, AC, storage shed. No pets, no smoking. $700/mo.

269-469-0987

3 bedroom/1 bath recently renovated ranch on lakeside of Red Arrow. Garage, nice shed, large yard. $980/month. Pets considered. Available 9/1/2017 Call Mark 708-243-7864

FOR SALE

LAKESIDE HOUSEKEEPER Seeking an experienced housekeeper one full day per week. Please have local references and be willing to do dishes, laundry, organization etc.

Text or call 574-849-7383.

NEW BUFFALO TOWNHOME AND BOAT SLIP Recently updated, 2 Bedroom.

1.5 bath, Roof Top Deck, attch. 1 car garage and a 50 Ft. Boat Slip adjacent to the unit. Located on the harbor, with a gated community, with a community swimming pool.

Price Reduced to $268,000.

Available immediately.

For information or to schedule a showing call 219-796-5514.

FULL/PART-TIME MASSAGE THERAPISTS We are looking for full/part-time massage therapists and nail technicians.

Please call 269-469-9111 if you are interested.

5500 Watt Generac Generator 11 horsepower, output 230 volts, 110 volts or 12 volts. Generac engine, AC circuit breakers on each circuit. Runs all night on one 5 gal fill of gasoline. Great for contractors or homeowners.

Wheels out, air cooled, excellent condition. Made in the USA. New $1,200 asking $500.

Call 219-778-2708.

NEW BUFFALO Lawn Service crew openings.

Call 269-469-2340

HELP WANTED CARING DRIVERS WANTED Transport people to pre-scheduled medical appointments in Berrien County and beyond. Must have reliable 4-door vehicle, cell phone and access to internet or fax. Great way to supplement social security, disability or a pension income.

(989) 871-2289 GROUNDSKEEPER Garden, lawn, equipment maintenance, supervise crew, security, other duties. 40 hr week April-October. Wages negotiable, paid bi-weekly.

Mail resume to Friendship Gardens, PO Box 8834, Michigan City, IN 46361 or email internationalfriendshipgardens @yahoo.com. No phone calls please.

ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION COMPANY SEEKING FULL TIME ROOFING AND SIDING INSTALLERS AND LABORERS Three years experience and valid drivers license required.

Qualifying applicants.

Call Sarah at 219-363-6151.

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED New Buffalo home, 3 days a week, 4 hours per day, $10 per hour. Assume all household responsibilities. A background check will be required.

For information, call Dana 219-847-7777.

WANTED: Live-in couple or a single for long term employment to assist with the household duties.

Must speak good English, possess a valid driver’s license, and willing to travel with the couple.Beautiful live-in private quarters, and many benefits.

Serious prospects only to be interviewed.

630-325-7044 or 630-981-1450.

HOUSE MANAGER Organized, friendly, professional in NB area. $25K pay. Handles rentals, repairs, accounting, and marketing. Email applications to:NewBuffHouse@gmail.com.

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT Responsible, compassionate lady looking for caregiver positon.

Please call 269-479-5833.

SERVICES

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO BERRIEN COUNTY, MICHIGAN ORDINANCE NO. 221 OF 2017 AN ORDINANCE TO REPEAL CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV OF THE NEW BUFFALO CITY CODE TO ELIMINATE THE CIVIL SERVICE BOARD The City of New Buffalo ordains: Section 1. Repeal.

Chapter 2, Article IV of the New Buffalo City Code (which includes Sections 2-17 through 2-27) is repealed in its entirety.

Section 2. Publication and Effective Date. The City Clerk shall cause to be published a notice of adoption of this ordinance within 10 days of the date of its adoption. This ordinance shall take effect 20 days after its adoption, provided it has been published.

YEAS: Robertson, Ennis, Spirito, Kroll, Mayor O’Donnell NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None CERTIFICATION This is a true and complete copy of Ordinance No. 221 adopted at a regular meeting of the New Buffalo City Council held on August 15, 2017.

Lou O’Donnell IV, Mayor Lori K .Vander Clay, Clerk Introduced: July 18, 2017 Adopted: August 15, 2017 Published: August 17, 2017 Effective: September 4, 2017

FISH FOR STOCKING Most Varieties For Pond Lakes Call Laggis’ Fish Farm 269-628-2056 DAYS 269-624-6215 EVENINGS. BRIAN’S DETAILING Have a dirty car? Why not have someone come to you. Have your car vacuumed washed and waxed for a shiny sparkling car every time!

Call Brian at 219-841-2620 DRAWING CLASSES Ron Ferguson’s Kids’ Drawing Class.

Saturday’s from 2-4p.m.

Elsie Earl Studios, 200 W. Buffalo St., New Buffalo.

For details visit www.elsieearlstudios.com

SECTION 00 11 16 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS THE CITY OF NEW BUFFALO, MI IS SEEKING BIDS FOR THE WHITTAKER STREET REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT – PHASE II. Sealed bids bearing the project name as well as the name and address of

the bidder will be accepted until 10:00 am Local Time, Thursday, September 14th, 2017 at the City Hall of New Buffalo, 224 W. Buffalo St., New Buffalo, MI 49117. At that time and place, all bids received shall be publicly opened and read aloud.

Bidding Documents may be obtained from the following upon request of a non-refundable payment in the amount of $60 for each set (call ahead to confirm availability; additional costs for mailing will be applied): Abonmarche, 95 West Main Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 PH: (269) 927-2295 Electronic copies of the bidding documents will be provided free of charge upon request to Abonmarche. Please contact Sandy Riehl at sriehl@abonmarche.com to request electronic copies.

Questions concerning the project may be directed to Michael Morphey, PE from Abonmarche at (269) 926-4559 or mmorphey@ abonmarche.com.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 10:00 am Local Time, Monday, August 28th, 2017, at the City Hall of New Buffalo, 224 W. Buffalo St., New Buffalo, MI 49117.

Bidders will be required to provide Bid security in the form of a certified check, cashier’s check, money order, or a Bid Bond, of a sum no less than 5 percent (5%) of the total bid amount, made payable to the City of New Buffalo, as security for the proper execution of the Contract.

The project is scheduled for completion no later than Friday, May 18, 2018.

See additional information regarding contract times in the agreement form provided in the bidding documents.

Your Bid will be required to be submitted under a condition of irrevocability for a period of 90 days after submission.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids, waive any informality in bidding or to accept the bid, consistent with law, which best serves the interest of the Owner.

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

HOROSCOPE AUGUST 17-23, 2017

AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19 Creative projects and things you have produced may need some revisions. Don’t get discouraged if people don’t get behind your ideas or proposals now. This is not the time to make promises or sign contracts, anyway. Investigate applications and review proposals this week.

Wait till next month to seal the deals.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 Take a straightforward approach with coworkers.

Be very upfront about job requirements or your experiences with the company.

Don’t make promises or choose sides, but maintain good boundaries. This is a great time to build workplace harmony, just don’t form allegiances that are exclusionary.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20 Family situations may undergo some changes this week. You may need to come to the aid of a sibling or parent because they won’t be capable of dealing with the situation on their own. If you are the only one that steps forward to help, know that you will get the support you need, but it will come in the final hour.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21 Career and lifestyle changes are on the horizon. Don’t make any sudden moves just yet, but do the leg work and find out where your talents will best be used. Work on your image, whether it’s changing your hairstyle or purchasing new cloths, you will have more confidence when you look your best.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21 Keep your guard up. There is a tendency information will be given to you in a very dramatic fashion. If you are getting happy news, you can expect it will be over the top with laughter and good vibes, but if you are being told someone is upset or disappointed, it will be riddled with insults and vulgarity.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21 If conversations are not above board or if deals are not completely open, don’t waste time on them. If they really appeal to you, do some homework before you make promises. There are a lot of details that may not readily seen.

Be very apprehensive and cautious with deals that are of the all or nothing type.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22 Your earning potential has the propensity to increase in a major way. It’s important that you follow hunches and reach out to any possible new clients or companies. Investigate all employment options over the next couple weeks. Don’t make any commitments, just see what’s out there and give yourself time to choose.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19 This is a highly auspicious time, especially for educational pursuits. Plan your moves and follow through. Whether you are planning on returning to school, or are learning just for fun, the information you find will stick.

Your memory will be especially clear and will soak up information like a sponge.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22 Personal resources, funds and assets are strategically linked to your ability to communicate your needs with others.

Unfortunately, communication lines are on the fritz. So, you may think you are being direct and upfront, but people are likely to be confused no matter what you do or say.

Patience will be needed this week.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18 Relationship boundaries may need some revisions. Don’t feel like you can’t get too close or that you need to keep everything separated. This may not be the time to merge households, but it certainly is the time to see how well the two of you mesh. Don’t run down the aisle just yet, but do test the waters. Get your feet wet.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22 Slow down and take some time to reflect on all the changes and successes you have made in your life over the past few months. If you are feeling pressured to keep going or feel you need to continually push for more and better, that’s a sign you may not happy or may be trying to meet unrealistic social expectations.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20 It’s time to do some research.

Investigate all avenues that pertain to your career or financial goals. Follow up on any inquiries or leads that are in your area of expertise. Investing in research and design now will pay off big later. Don’t make promises or enter into agreements just yet. The more you dig the bigger the payoff.

PLEASE GO TO WWW.NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM TO SUBSCRIBE VIA PAYPAL OR CREDIT CARD

New Buffalo Times

25

26

www.newbuffalotimes.comw w

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

EVENTS

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO

POLICE BLOTTER AUGUST 7-13, 2017 AUGUST 7 False Alarm NB City Fire/Assist Other Agency Property Damage Accident OUIL 1st Offense AUGUST 8 Larceny Pokagon Tribal PD/Assist Other Agency NB Township PD/Assist Other Agency General Assist Ordinance Violation/Fireworks Complaint AUGUST 9 General Assist/NBAS/Fingerprints Welfare Check False Alarm Medic 1/Assist Other Agency AUGUST 10 Parking Complaint Welfare Check Medic 1/Assist Other Agency False Alarm AUGUST 11 General Assist/Debris in Roadway General Assist/Funeral Escort False Alarm AUGUST 12 Ordinance Violation/Dog at Large Suspicious Situation/Open Door General Assist AUGUST 13 Medic 1/Assist Other Agency Found Property Private Property Damage Accident

PLEASE SEND US EVENT INFO TO EVENTS@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM . NEW EVENTS EACH WEEK. — COMPILED BY LINDA HENDERSON

DAILY EVENTS NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY See weekly library events on page 3.

EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY TENNIS 10AM-12PM. NBHS Tennis Courts.

1112 W Clay St. New Buffalo.

Open play for adults. All levels welcome.

EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY OPEN TRAP PRACTICE 6:30-9:30PM. New Buffalo Rod and Gun Club. 10487 Kruger Rd. New Buffalo.

Open to the public. Contact Bob Kruger at 269-612-0983.

EVERY WEDNESDAY PIPE ORGAN CONCERT SERIES NOON CST. First Congregational Church.

531 Washington Street. Michigan City.

Concerts performed by National organist on an 1891 Roosevelt tracker pipe organ.

KNITTING AT THE DELI 4-6PM. David’s Deli.

All are welcome.

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS IN THE PARK 6-9PM. New Buffalo Township Park. 17425 Red Arrow Hwy. New Buffalo. 269-4691011.www.newbuffalotownship.org.

Enjoy live music and food in Memorial Park band shell. Alcohol, smoke and pet free.

Food served at 6:30, cash only. Limited parking/car pool suggested. August 23: Chester Brown Band (Jam Band/Rock).

EVERY THURSDAY NEW BUFFALO’S FARMERS MARKET 4-8PM. East Merchant St. Downtown New Buffalo.

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH THE HARBOR COUNTRY BOOK CLUB 6:30PM. New Buffalo Township Library.

EVERY FRIDAY STORY TIME AT THREE OAKS LIBRARY 10:30AM. www.threeoakslibrary.org.

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY SKIP’S OPEN-AIR EUROPEAN FARMER’S MARKET 9AM-3PM. 16710 Lakeshore Rd. New Buffalo. 269-469-3341.

THREE OAKS FARMERS’ MARKET 9AM-PM. 4 N Elm St. Three Oaks.

Small farmers offering fresh produce, fresh flowers, plants and many other things. Rain or shine.

EVERY SATURDAY YOGA AT THE PARK 9AM. New Buffalo Township Park.

SATURDAY NIGHTS ALIVE 6-8PM. Corner of Whittaker and Merchant Sts. New Buffalo.

Live music on the corner. Enjoy jazz country, reggae and more through Labor Day. Presented by the NBBA. MUSIC IN THE PARK 6:30PM. Dewey Cannon Park.

Downtown Three Oaks.

August 19: The North American Brass Company (Patriotic Music). Free.

SECOND SUNDAYS OF THE MONTH SECOND SUNDAY CONCERTS 4-5PM Fernwood Botanical Garden. 13988 Range Line Road. Niles. 269-695-6491 www.fernwoodbotanical.org.

The Three Divas (vocalist) will perform.

Admission is free after 3:30PM.

MONDAY-SATURDAY, AUGUST 14-19

72ND BERRIEN COUNTY YOUTH FAIR — “FAIRADISE” The Fair office is located at 9122 Old US 3l. Berrien Springs. 877-772-5425. www.bycf.org.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, AUGUST 19-20

36TH LUBEZNIK ART & ARTISAN FESTIVAL 10-5PM CST. Lubeznik Center. 101 W 2nd St. Michigan City.www.lubeznikcenter.org.

Enjoy contemporary art, artist activations and food. Free off-site parking available.

Free parking and shuttle service from Blue Chip Casino. Admission: $5 single-day pass, Free for Active Military w/ID and for children under 16.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17

DINA BACH 8PM. Acorn Theater. 107 Generation Dr. Three Oaks.

Tickets $20.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

JAMES NEARY & THE BEVY BLUE WSG, JOHNNIE EDWARDS & COMPANY 7PM. Acorn Theater.

Tickets $15.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22 RUSTED ROOT 8PM. Acorn Theater.

Tickets $40.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 24 HEARTACHE TONIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES 8PM. Acorn Theater.

Tickets $30.

The information for these events is correct, as of the Tuesday before publication date.

Please contact the events listed with any questions. Please send us any events at events@ newbuffalotimes.com. Deadlines are the Fridays before the following week’s publication.

integrity • experience • success

PANO ARVANITIS

Mortgage Loan Officer Personal NMLS#: 1232764 CONTACT US

new BuffaLo 269-469-8440 chicago 312-642-4414 toLL free 877-500-1965

real esTaTe: Full Service Residential, Commercial, Easements, Beach Rights Business Law: Corporations, Partnerships, LLCs, Sole Proprietorships injury Law: Serious Injuries, Wrongful Death, Accidents

www.laroseboscolaw.com

PANO@CMELENDING.COM MOBILE# (269) 757-1838 OFFICE# (219) 728-2059 627 W. BUFFALO ST. NEW BUFFALO, MI 49117 WWW.CMELENDING.COM COMPANY NMLS#: 124883

www.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

27

YOU MUST PASS THROUGH CUSTOMS WHEN IN NEW BUFFALO

y t i n e r e S

GLOBAL ART INCENSE/CANDLES HOME ACCENTS BEACH CLOTHING JEWELRY ESSENTIAL OILS CRYSTALS GALORE

BUDDHAFEST • 70’S ROOM

CHECK OUT THE CUSTOMS CLOSET AND CLEARANCE

CUSTOMS IMPORTS

139 N WHITTAKER STREET • DOWNTOWN NEW BUFFALO, MICHIGAN • 269-469-9180

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY: 11AM-6PM; THURSDAY-FRIDAY: 11AM-8PM; SATURDAY: 10AM-8PM

28

www.newbuffalotimes.comw

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2017

Explore the

beach!

AUGUST CLEARANCE

25% OFF

ON ALL PADDLEBOARDS AND KAYAKS

Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals Rent by the hour, day(s) or week.

Groups of up to 40 people welcome.

Reservations accepted.

Lessons available.

We can deliver rental kayaks, paddleboards and bikes to your door for a delivery charge.

Call 269.983.2010 for more information.

Visit our beach stores in New Buffalo and South Haven and our year-round store in Mishawaka to shop a great selection of bikes, boards, kayaks and beach gear and attire.

N E W B U FFALO , M I | 2 69 .4 69 .4 210 S O U TH HAV E N , M I | 2 69 . 6 37.5 5 5 5 M I S HAWAK A , I N | 574 . 259 .10 0 0