October 21, 2021

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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LIFE IN NATURE ON THE SANDY SHORE

New Buffalo Times

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 42, volume 80

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Thursday, October 21, 2021

Chikaming Township Board approves zoning ordinance amendments PAGE 4

City of New Buffalo’s short-term rental moratorium extended to December PAGE 5 Three Oaks council approves investigation plan regarding sewage treatment lagoons upgrade PAGE 6 Berrien County Health Department officials resign, cite ‘politicization,’ concerns for mental health as reason PAGE 7

SHE’S CRAFTY...

Celebrating art and animals at MHS’ first ‘Artists Studio Tour’ PAGES 10-11

SERVICE LEAGUE CELEBRATES 38 YEARS OF CRAFTS AT ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR — PAGES 12-13 —

PHOTO OF LEXIE WENTZ WORKING ON ONE OF HER HANDCRAFTED RINGS AT HER AND HER GRANDMOTHER’S BOOTH BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

The CHOSEN Season 1 Bible Study • Thurs 7pm Find Us On search: Calvary Chapel New Buffalo Visit calvarychapelnb.org for current updates, weekly bulletin & bible study information.

1615 East Buffalo St • Pastor Len Pera • 269-548-9980

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New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

ETHICS SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISM MICHIGAN PRESS ASSOCIATION MEMBER PROPRIETOR NEW BUFFALO TIMES, INC. EDITOR NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE EDITORIAL BOARD CREATIVE DIRECTOR JOE DURK REPORTERS/WRITERS THERESE DONNELLY FRANCESCA SAGALA LAWRENCE VON EBELER KURT MARGGRAF ALEXANDER FATOUROS SOPHIA ROSE FATOUROS STAN MADDUX KRISTIN E. FATOUROS NEW BUFFALO TIMES INTELLIGENCE NEW BUFFALO TIMES POLITICS GUESTS QUOTES DINO N. FATOUROS PROOFING FRANCESCA SAGALA BROADCAST/ADVERTISING JANINE ADAMSKI (630) 370-0820 OR JANINEADAMSKI@GMAIL.COM SUGGESTIONS, CRITICISM, IDEAS MEDIA@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM ADVERTISING MEDIA@NEWBUFFALOTIMES.COM CLASSIFIED ADS

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

LRSB distributes more than $4 million to local municipalities

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

he Pokagon-New Buffalo Area Local Revenue Sharing Board (LRSB) distributed a little more than $4 million to 12 local government units at its Tuesday, Oct. 12, meeting.

Board members distributed funds for Specific Actual Costs (SAC), Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT), and Discretionary payments to all the municipalities that are located within the LRSB/ Pokagon Fund area.

Only one SAC request was approved for payment: the New Buffalo Township Maudlin Road Booster Station, in the amount of $15,359.01, representing maintenance and operating costs associated with the booster station that supplies water to the Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo.

The 2021 PILT payments included 1.7 million, which was received by New Buffalo Area Schools; $568,749.74, which was received by Berrien County; $59,422.90, which was received by New Buffalo Township; $63,750.45, which was received by New Buffalo Township Library; $225,690.71, which was received by Berrien RESA; and $215,939.41, which was received by Lake Michigan College.

The total distribution of funds comes from 2% of net winnings that are derived from electronic games at Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo Township.

Total Discretionary Funds for 2021 were $1.5 million. Percentages and payments were received by the following municipalities: Berrien County, 7% or $107,397.63; New Buffalo Township, 40% or $613,700.76; New Buffalo City, 20% or $306,850.38; Three Oaks

Village, 5% or $76,712.60; Chikaming and Three Oaks townships, which each received 10% or $153,425.19; Grand Beach and Michiana villages, which each received 2% or $30,685.04; New Buffalo Area Schools, New Buffalo Township Library, Berrien RESA, and LMC, which each received 1% or $15,342.52.

During the meeting, LRSB Board Chairperson Pete Rahm spoke on behalf of the entire board when he addressed a member of the Board and Tribal member, Steve Winchester.

Rahm said he wanted the Tribe to know that the board “does not treat this as just another Tuesday in October, where the Board disburses the allocation from the Casino.”

“The Local Revenue Sharing Board is very grateful to the Tribe for their generosity year after year. You don’t have to look any farther than the New Buffalo Township complex which has a new Township Hall, pavilion, splash pad, bocci ball courts, exercise area and nature trails just for starters. You can see the brick-and-mortar improvements but what you don’t see is the improvements made to local governments. The Tribe also contributes to the Pokagon Fund which gives money thru grants that are submitted to the Pokagon Fund Board…The recipients are endless,” Rahm said.

“The Tribe said at the very beginning that they wanted to be good neighbors and be part of the community and they have done that and more since the opening of the Casino,” he added.

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NEW BUFFALO LIBRARY TO PRESENT ‘A HOLLYWOOD HALLOWEEN’

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he Friends of the New Buffalo Library will present a Halloween program on classic horror movies at the library at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26.

The program will look at classic horror films and lesser-known gems and explore the variety of horror films and characters. Film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek will explore the production of impactful horror films, notable stars of the genre and the legacy of those films and stars today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips and captivating stories, and children are welcome to attend.

All Friends of the Library programs are free and open to all.

Use of face masks at these events is requested. — STAFF REPORTS

Hey … you have the wrong last name on my paper … my last name is not Bradly … and you like your name printed on the back page? Yes I do Do you read the quotes? Every one.

— Debbie Wagner, Union Pier

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

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

Chikaming Township Board approves zoning ordinance amendments, Granicus contract renewal

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embers of the Chikaming Township Board of Trustees approved zoning ordinance amendments, at their Thursday, Oct. 14, meeting.

Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said Ordinance 148, which board members approved that evening, will go into effect seven days after its publication, which should be Oct. 25.

The amendments had gone through the proper channels, with the Planning Commission approving them before sending them to the county planning commission. The county had sent the township a letter in support of the amendments. Bunte said the letter drew attention to the overlay the township did with New Buffalo Township on the Union Pier district, which he said allows them to “work in sync.”

Trustee Bill Marske thanked those on the committee, which included board trustee Rich Sullivan, who had worked for the past year on the amendments.

Board members approved the 20202021 audit.

With regards to the general fund, Brian Wisneski, CPA from Hungerford Nichols, said total revenues for the year were $1.1 million and total expenditures were $1.2 million for a deficiency of revenues over expenditures of $95,100.

Wisneski said there’s some

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

$310,000 transferred to public safety to “shore up that fund,” so the fund balance at the end of the year was $2.1 million.

The general fund “still represents about 1.72 years of expenditures,” so it’s in “excellent financial condition,” he said.

Total operating revenues in the sewer fund were $842,000 and $2 million in the water fund.

Total operating expenses were $978,000 for the sewer fund and $2.08 million for the water fund, so the sewer fund had an operating loss of $136,000 and the water fund had one of almost $66,000.

Wisneski said both funds are in “good financial condition. The sewer fund continues to show operating losses and it’s been the first time in long time when the water fund had an operating loss, although Wisneski said that could be attributed to more people using up “minimum water usage” due to the pandemic.

Board members approved continuing with the township’s current auditor, Hungerford Nichols.

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oard members approved the proposal with Granicus Host Compliance in the amount of $25,731.13.

Board members approved entering a contract for a year with Granicus last December to manage the township’s long- and short-term rental program and that they’d revisit its renewal in October.

VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH COUNCIL Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7PM MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Power alone feels power.

— Dino

“He added there’s been an address identification of 620 listings within the township, a number that’s “considered multiples on different platforms,” and 439 existing rental units.

Granicus has reported 46 calls that have come in through their complaint department since it went online with the township. There were nine calls in the last 30 days and 136 letters have been sent out by Granicus through its first year of operating within the township.

“Personally, just looking at it from my perspective here in the township and what Greg (Nelson, code enforcement officer) does on a day-today basis and the feedback I got from others, it seems the program - whether there’s a ton of calls coming in or not has encouraged our short term rental operators to understand that we’re not just going to sit back and let things occur without having some regulation and some enforcement,” Bunte said.

A request from the police department to replace the DVR that operates the camera security system at Township Center in the amount of $1,398.80 was approved. Bunte said the current DVR was “fried” when the thunderstorms and power outages hit the region in August and is inoperable.

Board members approved police chief Todd Taylor, along with Sgt. Brandon Jones, attending the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police conference in Grand Rapids, for the cost of $1,264.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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City of New Buffalo’s short-term rental moratorium extended to December

BY THERESE DONNELLY

he moratorium on short-term needs to set ordinances regarding rentals rentals in the City of New because the current ordinances have no Buffalo has been extended wording regarding short-term rentals in again. residential zones, though they are allowed At the City Council’s Oct. in the marina and commercial zones as 18 meeting, Mayor John Humphrey businesses. stated the city had received certified Humphrey said the requests from 13 residents 150 rental properties Humphrey requesting a third public currently licensed will countered that hearing on the short-term remain licensed and police after years working are responding to calls rental issue and, according on the matter, he to state law, he said the regarding unlicensed considered himself city had to schedule a rentals but it is a slow an expert. He also hearing, necessitating a process as they have said the city needs delay. to be caught in the act. to set ordinances The council voted Humphrey said this would regarding rentals on Resolution 2020-11 take time as there are a because the current Amendment, moving the limited number of police ordinances have no end of the moratorium to officers working in the wording regarding Dec. 13, 2021, giving time city. There are currently short-term rentals for the requested hearing, seven officers with the in residential an ensuing Planning New Buffalo Police zones, though they Commission meeting Department. are allowed in and finally a City Council The council approved the marina and meeting. the amendment, with commercial zones Councilmember O’Donnell dissenting. as businesses.

Lou O’Donnell voiced Many who attended his objections to the the meeting in person amendment, saying it was simply “kicking addressed the council regarding their the can down the road” and that he was opposition to the proposed ordinance, still opposed to the ordinance. He asked arguing -like O’Donnell- that the evidence for a study by outside experts, saying he did not support a need for a cap, and that still had not seen any evidence supporting discouraging visitors at rentals would the need for limits on short-term rentals. negatively impact businesses and property values.

“None of us are experts,” he said of the Business owner Jim Kramer told the council. council his restaurant makes its profit Humphrey countered that after years during about three months of the summer working on the matter, he considered season. He said the moratorium and himself an expert. He also said the city

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

negative publicity surrounding it could cause tourists to choose to stay in other towns.

Addressing the council, Laura Murray said restricting short-term rentals would have a “devastating effect” on the community, as the renters patronize local businesses. She also said that there has been no clear evidence of the short-term rentals causing increased disturbances.

Bill Logothetis stated he does not rent out his property but owns a home and business in the city and he feels the ordinance would devalue properties and foreclosures and closed businesses will keep people from visiting. He said he had submitted a FOIA request for evidence supporting the council’s view and had been informed the city does not have such documents. He said if properties do violate noise and other ordinances, they should be dealt with individually.

Resident Don Matthews asked the council for clarification on the city’s parking ordinances. He said the code enforcement officer had told him he could not park his plated, insured cars in his driveway, but he could not find wording in the ordinance prohibiting it. Matthews said he understood ordinances to prevent cars parking on lawns but questioned not being allowed to park on his paved driveways.

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ater in the meeting, Humphrey said the city will schedule a town hall meeting to address parking questions but explained the city cannot selectively

New Buffalo Times

— SINCE 1942 —

enforce ordinances and must respond to all complaints.

In a separate matter, the council approved a bid by Baker Tilly in the amount of $29,500 to conduct a water and sewer rate study. The city also received bids from Alpha Engineering and Utility Services for $24,000, and Utility Financial Solutions for $28,000.

City Manager Darwin Watson said he recommended Baker Tilly, based on the cost and timeframe of the work, as well as the firm’s familiarity with the city.

Humphrey said the study will look at the city’s aging sewer system and determine whether rates need to increase.

According to Watson, there has been no utility study in the city for at least five years.

The council also approved a second reading of an amendment to Chapter 16 of the city ordinance, regarding sewers and sewage disposal. An ordinance passed in 2020 made property owners responsible for costs associated with sewer blockage, backups and repairs. However, Watson said a review of ordinances had shown a conflict in definitions of terms and the ordinance’s intent. The amendment is intended to resolve this conflict by removing language mentioning public streets and rights of way.

Near the end of the meeting, the council went into closed session to discuss Watson’s six-month evaluation. No details were revealed when the council returned to open session, but prior to the meeting’s adjournment, councilmember Mark Robertson thanked Watson for his work.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Three Oaks council approves investigation plan regarding sewage treatment lagoons upgrade

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s the Village of Three Oaks continues to upgrade its sewage treatment lagoons to meet state requirements, the village council approved Wightman and Associates’ investigation plan, in the amount of $7300, at their Wednesday, Oct. 13, meeting.

Wightman engineer Mary Nykamp told the council the firm had submitted a work plan to the state last month and had recently gotten back “minor comments.” The next phase includes soil borings at all three lagoons and an inspection of the lagoon liner.

At a previous regular meeting, the council had approved Journeyman Distillery’s request to close Generations Drive Saturday, Oct. 16, for its annual fundraiser. At the October meeting, the council approved a further request to approve a charitable gaming license, which will allow the distillery to sell raffle tickets during the fundraiser.

After a brief discussion the council appointed Ronald Oatsvall, Jr. as the village’s backup building inspector.

Village Manager Dan Faulkner said building inspector Ed Carpenter had suggested appointing a backup inspector in case he is ever unavailable due to illness or vacation. Oatsvall was recently appointed assistant building inspector for Three Oaks Township.

The council ok’d the purchase of a new accounting software module to handle in-office payments. Faulkner explained the village already uses BS&A software modules for tax payments and other aspects and the new module will allow village staff to process utility and permit application payments, print receipts and immediately enter transactions into the general ledger.

Faulkner said there have been a

BY THERESE DONNELLY

high number of permit applications this year, and he anticipates a similar number next year, making the software highly useful.

Later in the meeting, the council approved advertising for a utility payment clerk to handle billing, payments and communication with the water department.

Abonmarche Engineering, the firm overseeing the Michigan Street improvement project, submitted a request for $2500 for weekly site inspections and communications with the contractors, which was not part of the original agreement.

Councilmember Colleen Newquist asked if the village had requested the additional work. Faulkner said there had been no specific request, but at a meeting with Abonmarche representatives he had mentioned wanting regular communication, which he said may have been interpreted as a request for the work.

Newquist pointed out this was not the same as coming to a mutual agreement regarding the scope of work and a price.

The council tabled the issue until the November meeting.

Street improvements are also in store for Elm Street. As part of the planned funding, the council approved two resolutions, 10-2021-2 and 10-2021-3, to show the village’s commitment while applying for grants.

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uring committee reports, councilmember Joe Hindman, who is the council liaison to the Downtown Development Authority, said the DDA is discussing planting new trees in the downtown and assisting homeowners in purchasing trees. Council president pro tem Steve Graziano noted the village currently reimburses

homeowners up to $100 per year for trees planted in the tree lawn.

Councilmember Becky Thomas added that at a previous meeting, the council had been made aware some of the trees approved for the reimbursement program were invasive species and may need to be updated.

Speaking to the council, Faulkner reported out of 11 water quality samples sent to the state, one had come back with lead levels considered “above action level.” He said the village will “aggressively look” at the entire system to identify and replace lead pipes. In the meantime, homeowners affected by the actionable sample have been notified and offered ways to mitigate the issue.

Police Chief Carl Krause informed the council the police department’s shooting range needs routine repairs, including rebuilding a worn berm.

He said the Chikaming Township Police Department has agreed to pay half of the $2000 cost and asked the council to approve $1000 from the TOPD for the remaining cost. Krause additionally suggested establishing a yearly fee for the seven departments that use the range, which he said would raise funds for new equipment and maintenance.

In preparation for the upcoming annual audit, Faulkner recommended asking former village treasurer Lois Smith to assist in preparing information for the auditors.

Faulkner also told the council the village had recently received a variance request to the village building code. In order to address this request, he said, the village needs to establish a construction board of appeals of three or more members. Faulkner said one person has agreed to serve on the board and two more are considering it. The council will vote on the applications at its November meeting.

SING ALONG TO BEATLES FAVORITES WITH A ‘LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS’

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OIN THE HARBOR COUNTRY SINGERS FOR AN EVENING SING ALONG WITH YOUR

FAVORITE BEATLES HITS – “LET IT BE,” “ELEANOR RIGBY,” “TICKET TO RIDE,” “WHEN I’M SIXTYFOUR,” “YELLOW SUBMARINE,” “YESTERDAY” AND MANY MORE -- TRANSPOSED INTO EASY-TO-SING KEYS AT 6:30 P.M. THURSDAY, NOV. 4, IN THE POKAGON ROOM AT NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY. YOU PROBABLY KNOW THE WORDS, BUT THE SINGERS WILL PROVIDE A SONGBOOK JUST IN CASE. THE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY WILL SUPPLY SNACKS AND DRINKS FOR THE INTERMISSION. ACCOMPANISTS GARTH TAYLOR ON GUITAR AND ADRIAN COLE ON KEYBOARD WILL BACK UP THE SONG LEADERS DONNA MITCHELL, KERRY DERUBBO, DIANE RUZEVICH, AND PAT PUTNAM FOR THIS NOSTALGIC EVENING WITH THE MUSIC OF THE FAB FOUR. ADMISSION IS FREE. PLEASE WEAR A FACE MASK TO THIS EVENT. NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP LIBRARY IS LOCATED AT 33 N. THOMPSON STREET IN NEW BUFFALO. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE SCHOOL OF AMERICAN MUSIC AT SCHOOLOFAMERICANMUSIC@ GMAIL.COM, 269-409-1191, OR VISIT SAM’S WEBSITE, WWW. SCHOOLOFAMERICANMUSIC.COM. THE HARBOR COUNTRY SINGERS IS A PROGRAM OF THE SCHOOL OF AMERICAN MUSIC AND IS SUPPORTED BY A GRANT FROM THE POKAGON FUND. — STAFF REPORTS

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Berrien County Health Department officials resign, cite ‘politicization,’ concerns for mental health as reason

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wo officials from the Berrien County Health Department resigned their positions last week, each giving a two-week notice to ensure a smooth transition.

BERRIEN COUNTY HAS BEGUN

LEADERSHIP. THE PARTNERSHIPS AND

THE PROCESS TO REPLACE ACTING

PUBLICHEALTHINFRASTRUCTUREINNEW

HEALTH OFFICER COURTNEY DAVIS AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER GILLIANCONRAD.THEIRLASTDAYSARE, RESPECTIVELY, NOV. 3 AND OCT. 29.

“WE APPRECIATE AND VALUE THE CONTRIBUTIONSOFCOURTNEYDAVISAND GILLIANCONRADESPECIALLYDURINGTHIS VERYDIFFICULTTIME,ASWELLASTHEIR COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY,” SAID R. MCKINLEY ELLIOTT, CHAIRMAN OF THE BERRIEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS. “WE WISH THEM ALL THEBESTINTHEIRFUTUREENDEAVORS.” DAVIS OFFERED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: “I MAKE THIS DECISION WITH MANY EMOTIONS – SERVING THE RESIDENTS OF BERRIEN COUNTY FOR NEARLYFIVEYEARSANDSUPPORTINGLOCAL PUBLICHEALTHINFRASTRUCTUREHAVE BEEN AMONG MY GREATEST HONORS. HOWEVER,WITHTHEPOLITICIZATIONOF PUBLICHEALTHDURINGTHEPANDEMIC, I CAN NO LONGER EFFECTIVELY DO MY JOB AND SERVE THE COMMUNITY WITH

FRIENDSHIPS I HAVE FORMED IN OUR COMMUNITYWILLALWAYSBEIMPORTANT TO ME. BUILDING HEALTHY AND EQUITABLE COMMUNITIES REMAINS MY DRIVINGPASSION,ANDILOOKFORWARD TOCONTINUINGTOINVESTINMICHIGAN’S

C WAYS.”

ONRAD OFFERED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: “IT HAS BEEN A PRIVILEGE AND HONOR TO SERVE THE RESIDENTS OF BERRIEN

COUNTY, AND I AM INCREDIBLY PROUD OF ALL THE COUNTLESS WAYS OUR DEPARTMENT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY. WHAT OUR TEAM ACCOMPLISHED DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS BEEN NOTHING LESS THANEXTRAORDINARY;HOWEVER,THE EXHAUSTIVE WORK OF THE PAST 19 MONTHS HAS TAKEN A SIGNIFICANT TOLL ON MY MENTAL, EMOTIONAL, AND PHYSICAL HEALTH. FOR THE SAKE OF MY OWN HEALTH AND THE HEALTH OF MY FAMILY, I NEED TO STEP AWAY. “WHILE I AM MOVING ON FROM THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT, I REMAIN

ITSHEALTHANDSAFETYALWAYSATTHE

DEDICATED TO PUBLIC HEALTH WITH A

FOREFRONT. “IAMFOREVERPROUDOFTHEHEALTH

PERSONAL COMMITMENT TO UPHOLD SCIENCE,STRIVEFORSOCIALJUSTICEAND

DEPARTMENTTEAMANDAMDEDICATED

CREATEANEQUITABLECOMMUNITYFOR

TO HELPING SUPPORT A

EVERYONELIVINGINBERRIENCOUNTY.”—

SMOOTHTRANSITIONTONEWINTERIM

STAFF REPORTS

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

SPORTS

Raiders back on the winning track after Bloomingdale game

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BY STAN MADDUX

he Red Arrow Raiders got back on the winning track by scoring 84 points, mostly behind the legs and throwing arm of quarterback Eli Thomas, at Bloomingdale Friday, Oct. 15.

The junior rushed for 495 yards on just 19 carries and passed for another 102 yards.

Thomas also rushed for six touchdowns and passed for another touchdown.

Thomas also found the end zone on a 99 yard kick-off return.

Raiders Head Coach Matt Johnson credited the yardage explosion to Thomas’ athletic ability and holes created for him to run through by the offensive line.

“He made some great plays with his legs. A couple of the other touchdowns we had some really nice blocks on offense to allow him to get out in the open,” he said.

The final score was 84-40.

The Raiders (3-4), which is comprised of players from New Buffalo and River Valley high schools, took just a 6-0 lead into the second quarter.

However, both teams broke loose offensively with 58 points combined before halftime.

The Raiders leading 46-18 to start the third quarter still had a

fight on their hands.

Bloomingdale (0-7) scored the first touchdown of the second half after recovering an onside kick.

“We traded scores pretty much for the rest of the game,” Johnson said.

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lso contributing on offense for the Raiders was Andrew Flick with five pass receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown.

Ben Coffeen and Trent Taylor added rushing touchdowns.

Johnson said the lopsided victory came despite several players being out from injuries and players from the junior varsity being called up to try and plug the holes.

Michael Bombin, Peyton Lijewski, Chris Israelite, and Ethan Lijewski were on the sidelines with injuries ranging from a torn knee ligament to concussions.

“I did not think we were going to score 84 points. I figured it would be a lot closer than it was.

Eli just had a really good night.

Fortunately, there were some plays we ran they weren’t able to defend very well and we were able to take advantage of it,” he said.

The Raiders’ final game of the season is Friday, Oct. 22, against Martin at New Buffalo.

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

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ometimes, when you play pretty well, and still lose, it doesn’t hurt quite as much.

If your opponent continually beats you, but is a good sport about it, you give credit where credit is due and move on. Other times, you play a game that if you didn’t make quite as many mistakes you might have won, and the person that is responsible for beating you taunts your fans by shouting “I still own you” and then sits on the bench with a smug look on his face.

Those losses hurt, and add to the rivalry that is the Bears versus the Packers.

The baseball playoffs are rolling along, without a team representing Chicago.

The four remaining teams are all playing excellent, exciting baseball and whoever survives should make this year’s World Series a great one.

Former Chicago atheletes Chris Sale, Kyle Schwarber, Jorge Soler, and Joc Pederson give local fans some guys to cheer for, so I’m pulling for the Red Sox and the Braves, but these teams seem to be so evenly matched that anyone can win.

What else is happening in the baseball world that is of interest?

Well, the Cardinals, after winning 17 games in a row and reaching the playoffs, decided to fire their manager.

The Cubs appear to have made a great hire for their new general manager. Thirty seven-year-old Carter Hawkins is the man, and he comes from the Cleveland Indians, where he worked for 14 years, the last five as assistant GM.

Carter’s strength lies in player development and pitching, two areas that are vital for the Cubs to improve upon in order to return to respectability.

The off season should be full of transactions for the Cubs, and the White Sox will need just a bit of improvement to get further in the playoffs next season.

The Blackhawks have gotten off to a slow start, earning only one point in their first three games. There are a lot of new faces on the team this year, and hopefully they’ll gel soon and start winning games.

The Bulls season opened Wednesday night, and even though they have a lot of new faces too, the undefeated exhibition season has shown that the team is going to be very good and very exciting.

Watching the Bulls this season should be as much fun as it’s been since the championship years. Making the playoffs is the minimum expectation for this years team.

Finally, Chicago does have a champion this year. The Sky, Chicago’s entry in the WNBA, came from behind in the fourth quarter to beat the Phoenix Mercury 80-74.

Candace Parker, in her triumphant return to her home town, led the way and the Sky won their first championship at sold-out Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Abba Eban said, “History teaches us that men and nations behave wisely when they have exhausted all other alternatives.”

Refuse hate. Talk to you next week.

Peace, love, and happiness.

It’s better to play football with a smile on your face.

— Kyle Walker

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

SCHOLASTICS

NEW BUFFALO VOLLEYBALL TEAM LOSES TO BUCHANAN IN AWAY GAME

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He young New Buffalo High School varsity volleyball team showed what the future might bring against a very talented squad from Buchanan.

The Lady Bison lost Monday, Oct. 18, on the road in four sets 18-25, 9-25, 25-19 and 20-25.

Head Coach Bruce Molineaux said the match was one of the best his players, who have struggled with inconsistency at times, have played in recent weeks.

Included on the Buchanan resume this year is a victory over St. Joseph and a tournament win at Coloma.

“Buchanan has a nice team. They’re a bigger school and we were in three of the four games,” he said.

The offensive attack for New Buffalo (10-122) was led by Ellie Cybulski, Jane Funk and Shannon DeWit, who combined for 18 of the team’s 22 kills.

Ava Johnson was a major contributor on offense with 13 assists.

Amanda Jones was a force for the Lady Bison on defense with 35 digs.

Molineaux said the level of play against Buchanan followed extra work in practice to try and score more points from spikes by the front line and making fewer mistakes on returns.

He said more consistency in those skill sets is key to his team having a chance to go deep into the conference and district tournaments.

“Little things,” Molineaux said.

The Lady Bison won their previous match on the road last week in a sweep of Benton Harbor 25-22, 25-17 and 25-16.

Funk and DeWit combined for 10 kills while 13 of the points came from assists by Johnson and eight aces from Amelia Selir.

Jones was again the leader on defense with 20 digs.

New Buffalo plays again at home Monday, Oct. 25, against Countryside Academy and Wednesday, Oct. 27, at home during senior night against River Valley. — Stan Maddux

9

New Buffalo school board accepts 2020-2021 audit

M

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the New Buffalo Area Schools Board of Education accepted the 2020-2021 Audit from Kruggel Lawton & Company, LLC, at their rescheduled Monday, Oct. 18,

The cost will cover the author fee and classroom books.

Board members accepted the resignation letter of Jason Haskins, effective immediately.

The adoption of the National School Lunch Week meeting.

Proclamation for the week of October 11 - 15, 2021, Regarding the general fund, as of June 30, 2021, was approved.

Alex Schaeffer, CPA, said the district revenues were Board members approved the following positions at $16.5 million, with $13.9 for 2021-2022: varsity boys million, or 83 percent, of that, basketball: Nate Tripp, JV boys Regarding the general being local sources. basketball: Rodney Wash, seventh fund final amended Expenditures ended up at $14.3 grade boys basketball: Dr. Jeff Leslie, budget, the district million, with $7.3 million of that eighth grade boys basketball: Nate was at $16,317,244 going to instruction.

Jones, eighth grade girls basketball: of revenue; however, Regarding the general fund Jessica Conrad, game helper: the district collected final amended budget, the Marissa Bardusk. $16,596,311, so it was district was at $16,317,244 of “overcollected - which is revenue; however, the district uperintendent Dr. Jeff good,” Schaeffer said, at collected $16,596,311, so it was Leslie said that, according $279,000 or 1.76 percent. “overcollected - which is good,” to rankings that were Expenditures in the Schaeffer said, at $279,000 or released last week from US final amended budget News and World Report, 1.76 percent. Expenditures in were at $14,786,956, with the actual amount which is starting to issue rankings the final amended budget were being $14,332,489, so the for middle and elementary schools, at $14,786,956, with the actual district has a “positive New Buffalo Middle School is ranked amount being $14,332,489, so the variance” of $454,466, 49 out of 1,345 middle schools in district has a “positive variance” or 3 percent. the state (the school is also ranked of $454,466, or 3 percent. second in Berrien County) and New The fund balance at the beginning of the year was $4.9 million. Regarding the Buffalo is ranked 75 out of 2,022 elementary schools in the state (third in Berrien County). final amended budget, the fund balance at the end Leslie said three out of the four skylights – the of the year was $4,297,165, with the actual amount smaller ones – have been replaced in the middle/high being $5,030,698. school: one by the Performing Arts exit, one by the Due to the federal funds the district received middle school entrance and one by the high school this year because of the effects of the coronavirus one. The bigger one in the commons area could be pandemic, this year, the district had to undergo replaced either later this week or this month. a uniform guidance audit (or a grant compliance Leslie said the pyrotechnics company that did the audit). Schaeffer said the audit is required if a district fireworks on graduation day for the last couple of spends over $750,000 in federal funds. The district years contacted him and asked if the district would did spend $1,076,000, so it was “over that limit,” he be doing them again next year. Board members said. reacted positively to holding gradation outdoors Board members approved The Pokagon Grant in the multiplex field again next year the evening in the amount of $2,300.00 to cover an “Author of Saturday, June 4, with graduation being moved Visit “ with Angeline Boulley, a former New Buffalo indoors if it rains that day. graduate and the author of “Firekeeper’s Daughter.”

S

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10 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Celebrating art and animals at MHS’ first ‘Artists Studio Tour’

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ccording to Johanna Humbert, executive director of the Michiana Humane Society (MHS), artists are the “lifeblood and the vibrancy of our community.”

“And you know who else bring us life and vibrancy?

Our pets,” she said to a crowd of MHS supporters at Judith Racht Gallery in Harbert during MHS’ first Artist Studio Tours, which was the shelter’s fall fundraiser this year, Saturday, Oct. 16.

All proceeds from the event benefitted MHS and the more than 1,000 animals the shelter’s staff will care for in 2021.

“Thanks to all the artists who opened their studios to us today...I have to say, I had no idea how fascinating it would be to go through the tour today and see all those different studios, those people who work in different media and to learn about what they do and why they do it - it was fascinating to me and I hope it was to you as well,” Humbert said.

Local artists who opened their doors to the fellow animal lovers on the slightly chilly fall day were Keek Bielby, Elizabeth Coyne, Bob Gildo/ “Vincent,” Tim Hall, Ken Neuman, Brian Overley,

Louise Pappageorge, and Thomas Allen Pauly.

After the whirlwind tour, everyone gathered at Judith Racht Gallery for appetizers and a raffle and live auction in the evening.

Live auction items were a private showing at The Vickers Theatre, which included a cocktail/pizza party at A Drawing Room owned by Thomas Allen Pauly, in Three Oaks; and an 18K gold Hammered Bastille Link Ippolita necklace.

Raffle items included an “Everything for Your Pooch” basket, a “foodie tour” of area restaurants and 20 bottles of wine as well as a $50 gift certificate to P & E Bottle Shop in Three Oaks.

T

he event’s “angel sponsor” was Bonnie Benson, MHS’ former board president, who passed away in August.

Humbert said that while Benson never had a pet growing up, she soon adopted one from MHS after moving to the area: a dog, Cheyenne.

After Cheyenne passed away, she adopted a second dog, Casey, who “was with her until the end,” Humbert said.

Benson would’ve really enjoyed that day’s event.

Farel Krueger, Sue Woodlawn and Roger Batton enjoy the reception

Amy Lardner, Mina Kuppe and Kurt Bredenbeck at A Drawing Room in Three Oaks

Thomas Allen Pauly in his studio, A Drawing Room, in Three Oaks

Keek Bielby shared her representational artwork at the Cherry Ridge Farm

Bob Gildo stands by one of his wooden creations outside his Three Oaks studio

Brian Overley discusses his artwork with Barb Springer

Alicia Cherrett with Christine Schneider at the reception

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 11

“S

Steve Skinner of Black Tree Studio Pottery displayed his work at Cherry Ridge Farm

Johanna Humbert thanks everyone for spporting MHS

he was really enthusiastic about this event because in addition to being a successful businessperson, Bonnie was also an artist, so today’s event is kind of a tribute to Bonnie and all she meant to the shelter,” Humbert said.

Humbert added that MHS is seeing “an extraordinary number of animals come in this year.”

“It’s not animals that were adopted last year – it’s pets from people who the pandemic is hitting harder and harder as time goes by,” she said.

On Oct. 16, Humbert said the shelter had a full house of cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs as well as dogs, with 80 dogs who are waiting to get into the shelter.

“So, we’re working extra hard to get in the animals that are in the shelter taken care of, spayed and neutered and vaccinated and adopted out to make room for more animals to come in every week,” she added.

This month, MHS has been doing “Freebie Fridays.”

Sponsored by Subaru, the program allows those who come in and apply for an animal and get approved on a Friday to adopt the animal for free.

A spy, like a writer, lives outside the mainstream population. He steals his experience through bribes and reconstructs it.

— John le Carre

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12 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Service League celebrates 38 years of crafts at annual Arts and Crafts Fair

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

he crafts were back – and so were the apple slices – in New Buffalo for the New Buffalo Service League’s 38th annual Arts and Crafts Fair, which took place in the two gyms at New Buffalo Middle/ High School Saturday, Oct. 16.

The show began bright and early. Lovers of handicrafts as well as those who wanted to squeeze in some holiday shopping early spent the morning and most of the afternoon browsing each booth in search of that unique gift or idyllic decoration for the home.

Chair Nancy Gino said that this year, there were approximately 98 vendors, which included some newcomers. She added that around 98 percent of the vendors return year after year.

The fair was moving along steadily Saturday morning, even after having to be put on hold last year due to the pandemic.

“We’re able to continue the way we always were before - we had our bake sale, made our homemade apple

slices, our kitchen is full again,” Gino said.

She thanked the school for once again preparing the gyms for the fair and giving League members use of the common rooms and other rooms.

Crafters as well were ready to return to the fair.

“They said they have so much product because they couldn’t sell (last year) and then they were kind of holed into their house so all they did was knit and sew - so they were excited to be able to do this again,” she said.

In addition to Gino, she said that Pam Covert also helped her chair this year’s show.

Former longtime chair, Irene Brinkman, passed away this month.

“Everybody that walks around thinks about her running around (the fair),” Gino said.

Melanie Prentice with one of her Halloween swags

Crafts abounded in one of the gyms

Rita Cochran with her knitted creations

Anamarie Fedder stands beside her display of Santas

Kathy Wolford with ceremic ducks decked out in her latest creations

P

roceeds from the show are dedicated to the Mary Anne Frey Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarship awards to area high school seniors each year.

Due to not being able

Snowmen created by Anamarie Fedder were on full display

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 13

Members of the New Buffalo Service League display their famous apple slices

Lexie Wentz works on one of her handcrafted rings at her and her grandmother’s booth

Dave Keammerer with one of his wooden creations

Jennifer Salat displays one of her purchases from the fair

to hold the show last year, Gino said the League gave out four scholarships to students in 2020 and four this year. Usually, there are eight scholarships per year.

“We knew in 2020 that we would not be able to have our show, so we gave out four scholarships then and then we saved the other ones for this year…

We held some out and continued with the tradition for 38 years, so every year, we’ve been able to give out the scholarship - Covid or no Covid,” she said.

Proceeds from the raffle also went toward the scholarship fund.

Visitors to the fair could stop in the school’s cafeteria for breakfast and lunch as well as to enjoy the fair’s hallmark treat: homemade apple slices.

L

iz Rettig, who chairs the apple slices effort, said members get the Jonagold apples from Sawyer Garden Center.

“We get about 10 to 15 ladies who get together to make the dough, slice the apples, and put them all together,” she said.

The apple slices are kept frozen at St. Mary of the Assumption’s Hall and then delivered to the

school Thursday, where members of the cafeteria staff bake them.

“The ladies have this down to a science, we have the recipe we got many moons ago from Linda Colvin - she was always our mentor with the apple slices, and she comes around to every art and craft show to visit with us,” Rettig said.

League members make 20 pans with six half bushels of apples. Apple slices are usually gone by noon, Rettig said.

I

n addition to the apple slices, members also contribute homemade baked goods to the bake sale.

“So, we do double duty,” Rettig said.

The New Buffalo Service League holds meetings the third Thursday of the month from September through May. Currently, Gino said they’ve grown from having 20-something meetings attendees to about 32 people who attend the meetings.

“We have a lot more members - people come out of town who want to move here and want to meet friends, so now more people are knocking on our door and saying, ‘Can I join?’

And we say, ‘Come on in,’” she said.

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14 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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16 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

HOR0SCOPE OCTOBER 21-27, 2021

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

Congratulations you have made it to the final turning point in the relationship cycle that started early last year.

You have been shown a lot about people and how you interact.

Take the lessons and things you have learned and make those significant and lasting changes now.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

The past year and a half has been all about learning how to communicate your needs and asking for the help and support you need. Now that you finally understand exactly how to interact with others, commit to making your homelife more harmonious and nourishing.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Since the spring of last year, you have been caught up in a cycle where the individual will power and what is good for the group, as a whole, has been challenged and you are entering that last curve. The point where changes will be made and conflict will eventually be resolved.

You have been caught up in a place where the work you do needs to align with your soul’s purpose. If you feel you are at a standstill, perhaps it’s time to choose a new path and learn new skillsets so, you can unlock your hidden talents and share your gifts to the world.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

You have been on a journey of sorts over the past year and half, where your personal value system has been challenged by the creative yearnings of your soul’s mission and growth experience. Be aware that the week ahead will offer some defining moments.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

It’s time to put your heart into your obligations. Commit to the idea that there is a direct relation between managing your everyday habits and being productive and successful financially.

Initiate change on a personal level and you will see new career opportunities open up.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The energy coming your way is best used as a clearing house to remove unwanted items from your home and personality. Dig deep into those cluttered places that have created stagnation in your living space and your life. Look deeper into your motivations and value systems.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

It’s time to put your heart into something and start expressing your creative ideas.

Invest your efforts in doing thorough job and putting a special touch on things. When you do, you will feel a motivating sense of pride and your work will attract the right clientele.

There is a rowdy yet reclusive vibe to the week ahead and the best way to use this energy is to clean out any skeletons you have hiding in the closet. This is the time to tell people how you feel, even if it threatens the current stability, you feel you have with someone. Let your inner truth shine.

You have been on a journey over the past eighteen months or so where you have faced a lot of challenges and have had to push through on your own. This is the point in the story where you find community and those who are also on the quest. Take a break and connect with others.

This is the point where what you are pursuing must align with your inner advancement on a soul level. This is more than just letting go of pleasure pursuits, this is about letting go of redundant cycles and really making changes for the spiritual being, that you have housed inside you.

There could be some friction between you and your network of friends this week. You may feel like you are the odd one out or feel that you have to surrender some of your independence.

The best way to handle the situation is to speak from the heart and be honest about what you want.

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. — Colin Powell

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 17

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18 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

H

Whole enchilada at Taco Fest in LaPorte

undreds of tacos were served in just the first hour to a street full of people turning out on a cool and damp evening.

The wait from long lines at each food vendor was 30 minutes or longer but Lori Larson of LaPorte and other people enjoying the festive atmosphere didn’t seem to mind very much.

“We’re standing with our friends and the music is fun and it’s a good vibe,” Larson said.

The first ever Friday night Taco Fest in downtown LaPorte was deemed a real success by Mayor Tom Dermody and others in attendance.

Dermody estimated more than 400 people came out.

There were concerns rain would keep people away but the skies dried up just before food and craft beer started being served and Latin music began filling the air.

The rain also stopped in time for judges to sit down at a picnic table without getting wet and decide which vendor served the “Best Taco.”

Taco Fest was the latest in a series of outdoor events drawing large crowds this year to Monroe Street just north of Lincolnway.

“It’s great,” said Javier Perez who came with his wife, Maribel, and 10-year-old daughter, Lily.

Perez said the music that was played by a disc jockey added to the experience.

“It’s a pretty authentic feeling,” he said.

Brealon Hervey, owner of Social Que Barbecue and Catering in Michigan City, said roughly 200 tacos were served from his mobile kitchen in the first 60 minutes of

BY STAN MADDUX

the five-hour event.

“It’s working out good. The lines are still long and it’s nice everybody is getting business,” he said.

The crowd also seemed to enjoy the lights strung above a one block section of Monroe Street in the spring to host Friday night events when the bulbs came on at dusk.

Charity Hlavsa, owner of nearby Hot Spot Café, had to run out and get more bubble tea after selling out of the beverage just before the skies darkened.

Hlavsa didn’t bring more because it was still raining while setting up her booth underneath a canopy.

“I didn’t expect anybody to be here. I’m completely shocked,” she said.

T

he size of the crowd had not diminished much when the event was over at 10 p.m.

“Amazing,” Dermody said.

Dermody said the idea for Taco Fest came from a desire to celebrate the city’s Hispanic population and send a message that LaPorte is a “welcoming community.”

A recent concert by Tom Petty and John Cougar Mellencamp tribute bands was also the first in a lineup of musical performances scheduled at the Civic Auditorium in the coming months.

Dermody said the events are in response to a demand expressed by citizens and to keep them from going elsewhere for things to do.

“This is the new LaPorte. This is what we do,” he said.

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Hikers plan hike at Madeline Bertrand County Park

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he Harbor Country Hikers will walk the trails of Madeline Bertrand County Park in Niles beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23.

The hike is the second in a series of three that explores the Berrien County parks this fall. The park, which is named for the Potawatomi wife of early trading post operator Joseph Bertand, offers more than five miles of hiking trails through forests and along the St. Joseph River. A naturalist from

the county parks will lead the hike.

The Hikers recommends those who attend wear long pants, a sun hat, sturdy shoes or boots and insect repellent, and bring plenty of water.

Total walking distance for this hike is about 2.5 miles, and it is rated “moderate” in physical difficulty.

All are welcome to hike with the group. For more information, including directions, visit the Hikers’ website, www.harborcountryhikers. com. — STAFF REPORTS

Harbor Arts, The Acorn presenting ‘A Musical Geography of Mexico’

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h

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 19

arbor Arts and The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts will be presenting Sones de Mexico Ensemble in “Beyond the Music: A Musical Geography of Mexico,” at 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 27, at the Acorn Center for the Performing Arts This free family friendly program is sponsored in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. Mexico’s

folk music and dance styles are very diverse and largely unknown outside of Mexico. Sones de México Ensemble, a specialist in regional styles, will guide you through Mexico’s musical geography. And, just in time for Halloween, enjoy a special Day of the Dead celebration (costumes optional).

The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts is located at 107 Generations Dr. in Three Oaks. For reservations, visit www.acornlive.org. — STAFF REPORTS

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20 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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OBITUARIES

Father charged with murdering young son

BY STAN MADDUX

ife in prison will be sought for a LaPorte County man if he’s convicted of murdering his 4-year-old son, who was subject to cruelty.

Alan Morgan, 28, is charged in LaPorte Circuit Court with murder and five counts of neglect of a dependent.

Typically, a murder charge in Indiana carries a potential sentence of 45 to 65 years.

However, the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office announced a sentence of life without parole will be sought for Morgan if he’s found guilty of murder due to the young age of the victim.

Judah Morgan was found dead Monday, Oct. 11, inside his family’s home a few miles east of Kingsford Heights.

According to court documents, his naked body was covered in bruises and there were red marks on his face and head.

Periodically, Morgan allegedly wrapped the boy’s wrists and ankles with duct tape and kept him in the basement, sometimes for several days at a time, as punishment for not being potty trained like other children in the home.

The investigation shows he kept the basement dark while the boy was down there by shutting off the lights.

Morgan also withheld food from the child and physically abused him, according to court documents.

An autopsy revealed the boy died from a massive brain injury caused by blunt force trauma to the head.

Police said the boy was found dead after the mother of the victim and three other children in the residence called 911.

She reported Morgan had lost his temper and hurt the child.

Morgan fled but several hours later was found about 10 miles away in Knox.

According to court documents, there was a strong odor of urine, feces and rotting food inside the residence.

A lock was also attached to the refrigerator to keep it from being opened.

Morgan is also charged with cruelty to an animal because of an extremely malnourished dog locked in a crate inside the home.

T

he boy’s mother, Mary Yoder, was later charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent, failure to report and cruelty to an animal.

According to court documents, the 26-year-old Yoder told officers she knew how her son was being treated but was afraid of Morgan and couldn’t stop him.

However, court documents also revealed Yoder also commented that she couldn’t have put a stop to the abuse but failed to.

She also told investigators she took the boy down to the basement for his punishment at times while his father was at work, police said.

One of the child neglect counts against Yoder carries an up to 40-year prison sentence.

She was being held on $100,000 bond.

IN ORDER TO HELP PREVENT TRAGEDIES LIKE THIS, PLEASE LOOK TO: Division of Violence Prevention National Center for Injury Prevention and Control The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4770 Buford Highway, MS F-64, Atlanta, GA 30341 800-CDC-INFO (232-4636) — TTY:1-888-232-6348 www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention

John Sigmund Koziel

J

1935-2021

ohn Sigmund Koziel, age 86, of Bridgman, died peacefully Monday, October 18, 2021, surrounded by his children.

His life began on April 12, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois and was born to Sigmund and Angeline Koziel. He married Thelma Pauline Traxler June 23, 1956 at Saint John Kanty Catholic Church in Rolling Prairie, Indiana.

After sixty-four years of marriage, she preceded him in death March 1, 2021.

John worked at Weldun International in Bridgman for thirtyeight years, where he retired as Vice President and Director of Sales. After his retirement from Weldun, he went on to work for Eagle Technologies in Bridgman for nearly ten more years, where he consulted on the sales efforts in their early years.

He and Thelma were forty plus year members of Orchard Hills Country Club, where they enjoyed both golf and all the friends they made. They were also life long Notre Dame fans where they held season tickets for

L O C AL IN TE L L IG E N C E

many years. John, growing up on the south side of Chicago was also a life long White Sox and Bears fan. He and Thelma loved attending their children and grandchildren’s sporting events and were their biggest fans.

John will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by five of his children, Michael (Sally) Koziel of Niles, Mark Koziel of Buchanan, Matthew Koziel of Bridgman, Toni (Rick) Canada of Chicago, Illinois, and Nicholi (Bob) Eddy of Bridgman; eleven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sisters, Victoria Parrett of LaPorte, Indiana, Patricia Hemphill of Benton Harbor; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one son, Martin Koziel; and siblings Richard Koziel, Michalene Smith, Bernard Koziel, Annette Lashua, and Joseph Koziel.

John had a genuine love for life and for his family and friends. He loved meeting new people. His endearing and charming personality allowed for everyone he met to call him a friend.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

John will be laid to rest with his beloved wife, Thelma, in Saint John Kanty Cemetery, Rolling Prairie.

The family prefers contributions in John’s memory be made to St. Mary of the Assumption, 28 West Ash Street, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128.

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

New Buffalo Times

— SINCE 1942 —

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 21

Driver facing OWI charges after sideswiping semi

A

PUBLIC NOTICES

BY STAN MADDUX

34-year-old man was lucky to escape with just minor injuries after sideswiping an oncoming semi-truck Sunday, Oct. 17.

Stephen Gourley of 777 E. 1000 North near Hesston will have to answer to a charge of Operating While Intoxicated.

Gourley was northbound on Indiana 39 about three miles south of the Michigan state line when his 2017 Chevy Cruze veered over the center line, according to the LaPorte County Sheriff’s office.

Police said he sideswiped an oncoming semi and crashed into a mailbox.

Gourley and the truck driver were looked over by paramedics but refused

further medical attention.

According to police, Gourley was having difficulty standing straight and his eyes were bloodshot when asked if he had consumed alcoholic beverages.

Gourley responded he had “two beers” about “one hour ago,” police said.

Investigators, though, located a 24 pack of Miller Lite beer on the back floorboard of the vehicle behind the passenger seat and six cans were missing from the case.

Police said he also registered a .174-percent blood alcohol level The legal blood alcohol limit in Indiana is .08-percent.

Gourley could face an up to oneyear jail sentence on the Class A misdemeanor charge.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL VENDORS/BEACH CONCESSION The City of New Buffalo is requesting proposals from qualified vendors for its beach concession stand. Interested parties should visit the city’s website for a copy of the Request for Proposal. The city’s website is www.cityofnewbuffalo.org and all information relevant to the proposal may be found there.

The City of New Buffalo will receive sealed proposals in the Clerk’s Office at 224 W. Buffalo Street, New Buffalo, MI 49117 on or before November 8, 2021 at 3:00 PM EST. AMY FIDLER CITY CLERK, CITY OF NEW BUFFALO

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22 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

New Buffalo Times

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mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

‘DAY OF THE DEAD’ CELEBRATION TO TAKE PLACE IN THREE OAKS

I

n honor of the Day of the Dead, All Hallows Eve, All Saints Day, All Souls Day all

falling in successive days at the end of October through the first

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 23

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The gathering will take place rain or shine (length of time will be dependent on the weather).

Those who are gathered will

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create an “ofrenda,” or a

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temporary altar to honor loved ones who have died. Please bring items of remembrance, such

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SUN 11/14 8 P.M. ET

personal items, to place on the ofrenda.

Participants are encouraged to dress for the occasion. In addition to their personal remembrances, participants are needed to bring the following items to establish the altar/ ofrenda: three bales of straw/hay (purchased or borrowed); flowers (mums, marigolds); bowl of fruit, vegetables; sugar skulls; rattles, drums, or noisemakers; candles,

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For more information, contact Kim Pruitt at 269-757-3221. — STAFF REPORTS

See more events on our website!

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www.newbuffalotimes.com

24 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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