November 21, 2024

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

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CHICAGO • LONG BEACH • MICHIANA SHORES • GRAND BEACH • NEW BUFFALO • UNION PIER • THREE OAKS • LAKESIDE • HARBERT • SAWYER issue 47, volume 83

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Thursday, November 21, 2024

Three Oaks Village Council recognizes outgoing president PAGE 3 Vance Price elected mayor of New Buffalo PAGE 4

New Buffalo Township Board recognizes outgoing member Pete Rahm, newly elected members PAGE 5 Longtime trustee says good-bye to Chikaming Township Board PAGE 6 Bison living up to promise in preseason basketball action PAGE 7

Remembering Her Roots: Author Becky Kliss talks 1980s childhood at New Buffalo library PAGE 18

YOUNG ROYALTY...

MEMBERS OF NEW BUFFALO 2025 COURT BEGIN THEIR REIGNS — PAGES 10-11 —

PHOTO OF MISS NEW BUFFALO 2024 AUDREY PROCTOR CROWNS MISS NEW BUFFALO 2025 ELLEN RIPLEY BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Three Oaks Village Council recognizes outgoing president

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT AND MEMBER

BY THERESE DONNELLY

t was a time for farewells and hellos at the Three Oaks Village Council’s Wednesday, Nov. 13, meeting when they marked the final meeting for outgoing village president Richard Smith and greeted newly-elected president Steve Graziano and councilmember Mike Springer.

In a sometimes-emotional exchange, councilmembers and village manager Dan Faulkner praised Smith for his years of work and dedication to the village. Smith received a plaque in recognition of his service.

Faulkner noted some of the many projects in the village under Smith’s leadership, mentioning street surfacing work, the purchase of village hall at 21 N. Elm Street from Berrien County, installation of an electric car charging station and the Hickory Street bridge project.

Councilmember Becky Thomas thanking Smith for his leadership, adding that the council had never ended a meeting a sour note with him.

Smith thanked his wife and children and his in-laws for their support, as well as councilmembers for their willingness to serve the village.

The council considered a request for a hardship exception for a short-term rental owner who missed their renewal deadline. Faulkner said the appellant had not corresponded with the village prior to the appeal letter.

Thomas expressed concerns that allowing exceptions would create an opening for more appeals, and the council would have no way of determining if an applicant’s reasons were genuine.

The council voted 5-2 to deny the request, with Joe Hinman and Lois Jones dissenting.

Faulkner, who was hesitant to share the applicant’s reasons in a public meeting, said the applicant addressed the council near the end of the meeting to reveal he had experienced a serious medical issue that required aggressive treatment during the renewal timeframe.

The council also heard from residents regarding the moratorium on food trucks in the village.

Colleen Froehlich, owner of Froehlich’s Bakery and Froehlich’s Kitchen and Pantry, encouraged the council to

continue to keep food trucks out of the village, saying she was not confident in how trucks were inspected.

Tom Pauley said trucks during large events helped alleviate crowds at downtown establishments. He added that restaurants want to avoid the competition of food trucks, while many restaurants offer products and events that compete with local shops.

The council agreed the moratorium, which expires Dec. 31, 2025, should be reworded to allow the village president to approve food trucks during special events in the village.

Smith noted a large crowd is expected for the Dec. 14 PrancerPalooza events being planned to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the John Hancock movie filmed in Three Oaks.

The council also approved a street closure on Elm Street for the event, as well as a closure for the Nov. 30 Snowflake Stroll.

The council approved a series of easements at the Swan Song lift station.

The village has been offered an opportunity to purchase a property adjacent to the Department of Public Works building on Central Avenue for $85,000. Faulkner said that, if purchased, the property would include driveway access to the current DPW building and a building with a loading dock.

While most members expressed an interest in acquiring the property for village use, the council instructed Faulkner to counteroffer with $50,000.

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he council approved a fire protection agreement with Three Oaks Township, from Jan. 1, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2028.

Police chief Carl Krause asked the council for clarification on the employee vacation time policy. Krause explained he was initially hired as a part-time employee, but sometimes worked more than 32 hours per week. He asked if those full-time hours were counted when calculating his vacation and other compensation.

Faulkner said the village would need to review the hours to make a determination.

In his manager’s report, Faulkner informed the council the water department is preparing for a fall discharge to bring lagoon levels down for work in the spring.

Allow probability that an event happens or does not happen be your guide.

— Dino N. Fatouros

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Local Government Meetings New Buffalo Times

Democracy Requires Transparency

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO VANCE PRINCE, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL MARK ROBERTSON, ROGER LIJEWSKI, KAREN GEAR, RICH KNOLL, VANCE PRICE City Council meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30PM CITY OF NEW BUFFALO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOARD HOWARD MALES, MICHELLE HEIT, MICHELLE HANNON, PATTY IAZZETTO, BARBARA ANDERSON Board meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 4PM NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30PM SHERIFF BERRIEN COUNTY Sheriff, Chuck Heit Undersheriff, Greg Sanders NEW BUFFALO AREA RECREATIONAL AUTHORITY Meets at 10AM on the 2nd Wednesday of every other month (odd) at New Buffalo Township Hall, 17425 Red Arrow Highway New Buffalo NEW BUFFALO AREA SCHOOLS BOARD LISA WERNER, JOHN HASKINS, DENISE CHURCHILL, BRADLEY BURNER, VANESSA THUN, STEPHEN DONNELLY, GREG VOSBERG CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP BOARD DAVID BUNTE, PAULA DUDIAK, LIZ RETTIG, RICHARD SULLIVAN, BILL MARSKE Chikaming Board meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM THREE OAKS THREE OAKS TOWNSHIP BOARD Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7PM VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM GRAND BEACH Meets on the 3rd Wednesday October thru March at 5PM EST KIMBERLY WOLNIK, CLERK-TREASURER HARRY WALDER, JOHN GRACE, ED SEBASTION, PETER DOERR, EDWARD BRANDES MICHIANA VILLAGE OF MICHIANA COUNCIL Meets on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1PM

Vance Price elected mayor of New Buffalo NEWLY SEATED COUNCIL GETS TO WORK

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BY THERESE DONNELLY

wo new members joined the services with a community New Buffalo City Council development firm. The city recently for their Nov. 18 meeting, requested bids from firms and with Richard Knoll and received bids from Safebuild and Karen Gear being sworn in Municipal Inspections Authority. for the first time and incumbent Roger Based on the two bids, Watson Lijewski starting a new recommended the term. one from Municipal Separately, the The newly-seated Inspections Authority. council appointed council got right to Watson said that Knoll as the city’s work, unanimously while Safebuild, which representative voting to appoint has provided building to The Pokagon councilmember Vance inspection services for Fund, Robertson Price as mayor and six years, has done a to the Local reappoint Lijewski as good job, it’s located Revenue Sharing mayor protem. at the eastern side of Board, Lijewski Separately, the council the state. The new firm to the cemetery appointed Knoll as the is located in Berrien board and Price city’s representative to the Downtown County and can provide to The Pokagon Fund, Development a regular presence in Robertson to the Local Authority. At Price’s city hall. recommendation, the Revenue Sharing Board, “They are a much council appointed Lijewski to the cemetery better fit,” he said.

Watson to serve board and Price to the In approving the as Galien River Downtown Development bid, the council also Sanitary District Authority. At Price’s authorized Watson representative and recommendation, the to work with the city Watson and Jack council appointed attorney to facilitate the Kennedy to the Watson to serve as agreement.

New Buffalo Area Galien River Sanitary Councilmember Mark Recreation Authority.

District representative Robertson thanked and Watson and Jack Safebuild for their work Kennedy to the New with the city.

Buffalo Area Recreation Authority.

The city recently received a City employees will receive a one$600,000 grant from the Michigan time salary adjustment as a year-end Department of Environment, Great bonus. City manager Darwin Watson Lakes and Energy (EGLE). As part explained the bonus will benefit 32 full of that grant, the council approved a and part-time employees. bid of $315,952.86 from Duke’s Root Since the city lost its permanent Control to investigate water service lines, record associated data and building official, it has contracted

restore as needed.

Watson told the council that the property owners at 319 E. Clay Street had contacted the city to request a vacating of the right of way adjacent to their property in order to build a garage and potential long-term rental apartment, without removing mature trees.

City ordinance requires the council to introduce a request for vacating a right of way at a meeting and to discuss it at a future meeting before voting, Watson said. Council members expressed reluctance, with Robertson noting that there was room for construction at the back of the property and that the request didn’t involve a hardship. He also said building on the right of way would require removing mature trees.

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rice added he believed drainage could be an issue if the right of way was built up.

Based on the council’s comments, Watson said he would inform the owners the city would not move forward with the request.

Before adjourning, Watson welcomed the new and returning members, and thanked voters for supporting the roads and parks millages in the recent election. He also said the city’s new leaf vacuum had arrived, and Michigan City had helped the city catch up on leaf removal by loaning its own equipment.

“It was very much appreciated,” he said.

Seize the day, and put the least possible trust in tomorrow.

— Horace

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

New Buffalo Township Board recognizes outgoing member Pete Rahm, newly elected members

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

embers of the New Buffalo Township Board thanked Pete Rahm for his over 30 years of service to the township at their Monday, Nov. 18, meeting.

Serving in place of Rahm and Jack Rogers, who wasn’t present at the meeting, will be Howard Males and Barbara Anderson, who were elected during the Nov. 5 election.

New Buffalo Township Supervisor Michelle Heit said that Rahm has also served on various other boards, such as the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Local Revenue Sharing Board.

“You’ve been such a big help to me and you’re the historian - you helped me with a lot of things just to give a historical perspective on some things,” she said, adding that she’ll still call him for his help.

“It’s been a pleasure - thanks,” Rahm said to applause.

Heit thanked Michelle Hannon, who was officially elected clerk, for ensuring the election ran smoothly.

Heit added that she’s also excited for treasurer Patty Iazzetto to begin her day to day duties in the office.

Iazzetto recently resigned from her post as food service director at New Buffalo Area Schools.

“After 22 years serving our children in our community as their food service director, I felt like it was time for a change and I’m super excited to serve our community and township as well,” she said.

Board members approved the first change order, which is an increase of $23,405, to the U.S. 12 Water and Sewer Extension Project.

An annual agreement between the City of New Buffalo and New Buffalo Township to continue to provide supplemental fire services to the city through Dec. 31, 2025, was approved.

The following appointments were approved: Heit as township representative to the Medic One Board and fire chief Jamie Flick as the alternate, with a term expiring Nov. 20, 2028.

The reappointment of Heit as township representative on the Galien River Sanitary District Authority Board and Alex Keene as alternate, with a term expiring Nov. 20, 20208, was approved.

The reappointment of Patty Iazzetto to the Pokagon Fund Board of Directors and Heit to the Corridor Improvement Authority Board was approved.

Board members approved appointing Hannon to the LRSB and Howard Males and Barbara Anderson to the Planning Commission, with terms expiring Nov. 20, 2028.

An hourly rate of pay of $23 for deputy treasurer Sarah Rutkoskie and full benefits starting Nov. 21, 2024, including $444.43 for her HSA account, was approved.

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azzetto said that she thinks Rutkoskie will be a “great addition” as deputy treasurer, adding that she’s been working in the reception area in the township’s offices.

“I’m looking forward to working with her and learning along with her on this new adventure we’re going on,” she said.

Board members granted final approvals of SLUs to Native Leaf LLC at 19689 U.S. 12, Mint New Buffalo LLC at 18300 West U.S. 12 Unit 1A and PER IIIL LLC at 13964 Grand Avenue to operate adult-use marijuana retail establishments.

Board members granted preliminary approval to Oasis Wellness Center of Bangor 4 LLC to operate an adultuse marijuana retail establishment at the vacant lot on Holiday Drive was approved.

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All chickens in coop killed in dog attack

BY STAN MADDUX

northern La Porte County family had all 14 of their laying hens inside a reinforced coop killed by two dogs.

Authorities are now starting the process of trying to determine the owner of the pets.

“It was a horrible bloody scene,” said Amber Walorski, whose husband, Michael, scared the dogs off his property in Hudson Lake by firing several gunshots.

According to La Porte County Police, Mr. Walorski woke up about 3:30 a.m.

Friday to start getting ready for work then later went outside to investigate the sound of dogs barking outside his residence in the 8000 block of E. Chicago Road.

Using a flashlight, he spotted the two dogs attacking his chickens and scared them off by firing several rounds from a gun into the ground, police said.

Police said he did not recognize the dogs as being from the neighborhood.

He described one of the dogs as weighing about 100 pounds with longer brown fur and the other dog as a white Labrador retriever about half the size.

Mrs. Walorski said there were dead chickens inside the walk-in coop and out in the yard along with about a half dozen still alive birds put down because of gaping wounds.

“It was really, really horrible to wake up to and to deal with,” said Mrs. Walorski.

Fortunately, the dogs did not break into another nearby coop holding about a half dozen chickens panic stricken during the attack.

“They were going crazy,” she said.

Mrs. Walorski said it appears the dogs broke into the coop by forcing open the bottom of a door with enough force to break the latch and ripping into a section of chicken wire to create an opening just large enough for them to squeeze their way inside.

She said her husband reinforced the coop a few years ago to protect the birds from any coyotes and other wild animals that might try to break in.

Police said the case was turned over to La Porte County Animal Control to try and find the owner of the dogs.

Animal control officer Jay Dare said a $50 fine for each dog could be issued for them running at-large.

If the owner of the dog is proven, Dare said the best option for the couple is to file a civil case to try and recover their financial loss if an out of court settlement cannot be reached.

“Normally, that’s what I always tell people as their best bet to get reimbursed,” he said.

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rs. Walorski said she isn’t worried so much about money, though.

It’s more about the cost of having to tell her sons, ages 7 and 5, about what happened to the animals.

“None of it was fun,” she said.

She said her family started raising chickens for eggs and meat in response to rising food prices during the pandemic and to give their children the experience of taking care of the birds.

Their plan is to use the six hens and rooster they still have to rebuild their flock of egg layers.

New Buffalo Times LOCAL INTELLIGENCE — SINCE 1942 —

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

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Longtime trustee says good-bye to Chikaming Township Board

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

fter 24 years, trustee Bill Marske said good-bye to the Chikaming Township Board of Trustees at their Thursday, Nov. 14, meeting.

Marske listed all of the accomplishments that the township has seen throughout that time: purchasing and developing Chikaming Township Park and Preserve, combining three fire stations into one by Township Center, moving from having a part-time to full-time fire chief and growing the township’s budget from less than $1 million year to around $2 million a year.Marske thanked the residents for continuing to elect him as a trustee.

He also thanked the current board for the improvements they’ve made for the past eight years, including enlarging Cherry Beach and road improvements to Union Pier and downtown Sawyer.

“I would like to thank the past and present township boards for working with me to help Chikaming grow and make sound decisions for how we grow,” he said.

In the Nov. 5 election, Arthur Anderson was elected to take Marske’s place.

Regarding the election, clerk Paula Dudiak said that 79.35 percent of registered voters voted.

During public comments, Janet Schrader said that she’s requesting that the township places the acquired three acres of Cherry Beach into a conservation easement, with “language prohibiting motorized vehicles.”

“Preserving the undeveloped three acres from the development and ensuring a wildlife corridor was the goal just as much as adding 404 feet of public beach,” Schrader, the founder of the Cherry Beach project, said.

She added that several letters and postcards were “printed about the wildlife corridor and the importance of preserving.”

“The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grant funding specifically includes a commitment to leave the property in a natural state with little to no development,” she said.

Schrader also requested that the July 2019 letter from Chikaming Open Lands Executive Director Ryan Postema, along with the memorandum of understanding, be honored.

Board members accepted an architects, engineering and construction proposal from Upland Design for the Kohn Park Project.

Chikaming Township Supervisor David Bunte said that he believes that the project has now reached the

stage where they should proceed with the park design and engineering in order for it to go to bid.

He added that the township, as of Nov. 14, has raised approximately $240,000 to the project and have multiple grant opportunities “still outstanding,” which, together with the township’s commitment and donations, makes him “fully confident” that the project will be fully funded within the next few months.

The engineering proposal came in at $64,200, lower than the estimated $65,142 cost.

Board members approved a proposal, pending some adjustments to the policy, regarding a take home vehicle for the police department.

The department will be utilizing an existing vehicle as the take home one. The vehicle, which will be used by police chief Todd Taylor, lieutenant Jason Roe and officers, will help with critical incidents as well as major ones, such as crime scene processing for burglaries, that occur after hours.

Board members approved pursuing a grant opportunity through the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) Public Safety Academy Assistance Program.

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COLES has received funding for grants to law enforcement agencies for law enforcement training academy scholarships as well as salaries for employed recruits. The program will accept applications under the Public Safety Academy Assistance Program - Appropriation II phase, which will help cover expenses for training employed recruits to become licensed law enforcement officers. While the state ran out of funds for the program, the legislature has recently appropriated additional funds for it.

Taylor said that each recruit will receive up to $20,000 to cover tuition and wages and other associated administrative costs.

A Pokagon Fund grant application in the amount of $5,685, for a Mavic 3T for a thermal drone program was approved.

Zoning ordinance text amendments with regards to Section 8.05 Nonconforming R-1 Lots of Record (NCR1 Designation) were approved.

The hiring of Carson Taylor as police cadet was approved.

Board members approved a five-year Memorandum of Understanding for Lakeside Park with the Lakeside Association. Bunte said that this is a renewal of the agreement that’s been in place since the township took over Lakeside Park.

Declining enrollment results in decision to close school

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BY STAN MADDUX

he La Porte School Board on Monday, Nov. 18, voted unanimously to close Lincoln Elementary School and repurpose the building for use as a district wide pre-school.

The cost cutting aimed decision stems from a decade or more of lost revenue from declining enrollment throughout the district.

“This transition allows us to address multiple strategic priorities for our district,” said La Porte Schools Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood, who made the recommendation.

Wood said the upcoming changes at Lincoln school also create an opportunity to expand the district’s Career and Technical Education program at the former Boston Middle School building and “provide our youngest learners with a comprehensive early education environment.”

Wood also announced the district will begin implementing a nine month transition plan that prioritizes supporting students, families and staff through the upcoming change.

Transition committees will be formed to guide the process and ensure stakeholder input is incorporated into the planning.

“The board carefully considered all aspects of the recommendation and the input we received from our community. We believe this change will strengthen our district’s ability to serve all students effectively,” said School Board President Ryan Seaburg.

According to school officials, families can expect detailed information about school assignments, transportation arrangements and transition activities in the coming months.

Lower birth rates and parents sending their children to other school districts were cited for the district losing more than 600 students over the past decade or so.

Teachers and parents opposing the move said the once under-performing school now has among the highest student test scores in the district and closing it will not help efforts to attract more students to the corporation under school of choice.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

SPORTS

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From the Bleachers

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COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

must admit that as this Sunday approached I was very worried.

The Bears had been horrible for about a month, and then they were going up against the Packers.

The Packers were coming off a bye week, so they had an extra week to prepare and heal while the Bears had just fired their offensive coordinator, and still had a lot of injuries. Heading into the game, it seemed like the game between two bitter rivals would be no contest, and the Packers domination would continue.

A funny thing happened on the way to the Packers easy victory.

The Bears new, stopgap offensive coordinator had a plan that was far superior to his predecessor. A balanced attack through the air and on the ground. Short, quick passes so that the quarterback didn’t continually get sacked. Calling plays like the plays Caleb Williams had success with in college. It wasn’t brain surgery but it certainly was effective.

All of a sudden the game was close and the Bears were gaining confidence. The Packers moved the ball well until they got into the red zone where the Bears defense tightened and stopped them from scoring touchdowns. The Bears time of possession was more than 12 minutes more than the Packers. The Bears had more first downs and gained more yards, but unfortunately they didn’t score more points.

The Packers blocked a last second field goal to win 20-19, and break the hearts of many in the Chicago area.

After getting over my disappointment, I began to reflect on why I dislike the Packers so much, and why losing to them

hurts more than losing to others.

Let me count the ways.

Most recently, their odd quarterback Aaron Rodgers had to shout out, at Soldier Field, that he owned the Bears. Before that, when Mike Ditka coached the Bears and Forest Gregg was the Packers coach, the Packers committed two of the most egregious penalties I have witnessed in sports.

The first was when Ken Stills leveled Matt Suhey long after the whistle blew. The next year, Charles Martin picked up and body slammed our punky qb Jim McMahon long after the play was over.

There are so many other instances but those three came immediately to mind. The team and their players play dirty football and are overly arrogant.

Since 1969, the Packers have only won two Super Bowls, one more than the Bears.

The Green Bay fans, much like the baseball Cardinals fans, act like they invented the game and are irritating beyond belief to Cubs and Bears fans. After Sunday’s game, I will look forward to January 5, when the two teams meet again to conclude the season.

With a little bit of luck, the Bears can knock the Packers out of the playoffs in front of their fans. If not, wait until next year.

Steffi Graf said, “You can have a certain arrogance, and I think that’s fine, but what you should never lose is the respect for the others.”

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

People work better when they know what the goal is and why. It is important that people look forward to coming to work in the morning and enjoy working.

— Elon Musk

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Bison living up to promise in preseason basketball action

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BY STAN MADDUX

he New Buffalo High School boys’ basketball team showed why the upcoming season could be one to remember during seven recent preseason games.

Head Coach Nate Tripp is even seeing flashes of the No. 1 ranked Class D squad that didn’t lose its second game until the regional championship match against Tri Unity Christian in 2022.

The Bison coasted to wins against Eau Claire and Andrews Academy but were soundly defeated by always talented Benton Harbor Sunday, Nov. 17, at Andrews University near Berrien Springs.

The previous day, the Bison at home twice defeated Howardsville Christian but lost both games to a strong Victory Christian team out of Valparaiso, Ind. Tripp said the games against the more physical Victory Christian players were not decided, though, until very late in each of the final periods.

He said his players showed they can play the type of fast paced style on defense leading to points off miscues that helped propel the 2021-22 squad.

“We got some defensive schemes going this year that I think are going to rattle some teams,” he said.

This year’s team might not be as potent offensively as the 2021-22 squad, which averaged more than 80 points per game and was in the top 10 nationally, at one point, for scoring.

However, Tripp said he expects a similar fast paced attack and no shortage of buckets especially from 6’4” junior center Lucas Forker, who scored more than 20 points a game in much of the preseason competition.

He said Forker’s ability to score is similar to Kayden Parmley, who set the New Buffalo High School record for scoring in 2022.

Parmley, a four year starter, finished with about 1,300 career points as a guard.

M’Nason Smothers and Trevor James are emerging as possibly the next scoring threats while Nick Haskins and Sam Tripp, who also have good ability to put the ball through the net, are settling in as ball handlers on offense.

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ripp said he also came away from the preseason more impressed with the desire of his players to work and pass the ball for open shots.

“It’s fun to watch. It’s ball movement like we had in 2022 with that team,” he said.

He’s not expecting this year’s team of mostly juniors to win as many games as the senior rich 2021-2022 squad.

Tripp said the players this year, though, could advance just as far, if not, deeper into the post season.

“Every single one of these guys have greatly improved,” he said.

The Bison open the regular season at home against Bangor on Tuesday, November 26.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

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Celebrate Holiday Cheer GREEK BAKE SALE ON

BY ALEXANDER FATOUROS

mbark on a culinary adventure at this year’s Holiday Greek Bake Sale—a delightful celebration of authentic Greek flavors and traditions. An atmosphere of plenty awaits at the beautiful Byzantinestyled Annunciation and Agia Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church in New Buffalo, Michigan on Friday and Saturday, November 22nd and 23rd, 2024, and Saturday, December 14th, 2024, from 11 AM to 3 PM (ET).

An epicurean delight not to be missed, the Greek-American menu crafted by the Orthodox Philanthropic Society (OPS) strikes a balance between rustic and elevated. This dedicated group of members from the Annunciation and Agia Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church has created a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Indulge your senses with a delightful array of authentic Greek pastries and treats. From flaky layers of baklava to creamy Galaktoboureko, each bite is a culinary masterpiece. Don’t miss the savory Spanakopita and Tiropita.

Other must-orders that incorporate an ancestral culinary knowledge of Greece include Koulouria (traditional Greek butter cookies).

Expect artistic plates blending geographic influences: classic Greek Christmas shortbread cookies (Kourambiedes) dusted with powdered sugar, buttery Koulouria, honeydipped Melomakarona, Flogeres, and Paximadia (Greek biscotti), perfect for dipping in coffee.

Restore your balance at a pop-up café set up at the back entrance of the church. Enjoy full-bodied coffee and rich, delectable pastries like creamy Galaktoboureko. These treats will transport you to the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western

civilization.

At the heart of this bake sale lies the ancient Greek concept of philoxenia (φιλοξενία), a profound virtue embodying hospitality and welcoming strangers as friends. This event goes beyond delicious treats. It’s an opportunity to support worthy causes.

OPS members volunteer their time and energy to support the Church and local organizations, including Feed America—West Michigan, the Empowerment Center-Caring Network (formerly named the Cora Lamping Center), River Valley Elementary School, River Valley Senior Center, and International Orthodox Christian Charities.

E

xplore the Greek Museum, housed within the church.

The exhibit, “The Greeks of Berrien County, Michigan,” chronicles the rich history of the Greek-American community.

Curated by Elaine Thomopoulos, Ph.D., author of “History of Greece” and editor of “Modern Greece,” the exhibit was funded in part by the Michigan Humanities Council (an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities) and developed by the Berrien County Historical Association. Museum hours are Sundays from noon to 1 PM. Appointments are also available. Call 630-569-2078 or email thomop@msn. com.

Make no mistake about it, Greek pastries are hard to come by in this area. The Greek Bake Sale, which keeps the vision of Orthodox faith alive, is located at the AnnunciationAgia Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church (on US 12 at Exit 4B, I-94) at 18000 Behner Road, New Buffalo, Michigan.

Greek butter cookies, koulouria.

Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

Aphrodite on the Greek island of Lefkada. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Classic Greek Christmas shortbread cookies, Kourambiedes. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Porto Katsiki seashore. A remote beach destination in the Ionian Sea on the Greek island of Lefkada. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Hydra island, Greece.

Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Greek pastries.

Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

Traditional Greek Coffee. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Athenian Treasury in Delphi, Greece on Mount Parnassus.

Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Greek pastries including Baklava. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Hydra, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea. Photo by Alexander Fatouros

Tsoureki. A traditional Greek sweet bread of fragrant, soft and stretchy dough much like the French brioche.

Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

Greek Museum. Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

Tina Sarantos and Eleni Edison.

Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

The Greeks of Berrien County, Michigan exhibit, chronicles the rich history and contributions of the Greek-American community. Photo by Elaine Thomopoulos

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10 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Members of New Buffalo 2025 court begin their reigns

T

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

he 2024 Miss Michigan’s Teen Third Runner-up as well as Miss Congeniality, Ellen Ripley returned to her home stage to claim the crown of 2025 Miss New Buffalo and Miss Congeniality during the Baton Rouge-themed pageant Saturday, Nov. 16.

Ellen said she would be remiss if she didn’t thank a former fellow queen: her mother, Miss New Buffalo 1988 Tracy Ripley.

“So (I’m) carrying on the legacy for you, Mom,” she said to the audience that had gathered in the New Buffalo Performing Arts Center.

A senior at New Buffalo High School, Ellen is the daughter of Brian and Tracy Ripley. She is a National Champion Gala Finalist, a Senior Improv Battle finalist and was the WAVE Awards nominee for the Best Female actress. She’s part of the National Honor Society, is a senior class president and is involved in Color Guard and the National Thespian Honors Society.

She was the choreographer of the 2024 Miss New Buffalo pageant and the school’s “Willy Wonka” production. Ellen also started “A Chance to Dance,” and had drives for dance shoes and athletic wear for dance studios in need and raised money for scholarship dances at her studio.

Her future aspirations include attending either AMDA in New York or the Boston Conservatory to major in commercial dance, with a dream job of performing with Cirque Du Soleil or being a backup dancer. She’d also like to pursue social media management or pediatric speech therapy.

In her new position, Ellen hopes

to represent a community that has people who “care about one another.”

“I’d continue to bring that care and that empathy for everyone in my community,” she said.

Ellen was also Miss Teen New Buffalo 2023.

Crowned first runner-up and second runner-up were Jane Funk and Sierra Shawver, respectively.

A senior at New Buffalo High School, Funk is involved in varsity girls volleyball and runs varsity track and field. She’s a senior scholar, has earned the STEM endorsement, is a National Merit holder and school record holder for track. Jane’s also received all conference and all region for three years in volleyball and track and was captain and assistant coach for the volleyball teams.

Jane hopes to attend a Big Ten college to study engineering or something STEM related.

A current student at Lake Michigan College, Sierra attended a military school to receive her high school diploma at 16 years old. She’s been involved in volleyball and tennis and helps out with vacation bible school. Sierra hopes to someday get a doctoral degree in business and pursue a career in marketing event planning or design.

S

ierra said she’d also like to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and “wouldn’t mind being one of the youngest females to the Los Angeles S.W.A.T Team.”

Crowned co-Mr. New Buffalos were Kayden Hall and Ekolu Brown, with Ekolu being crowned Mr. Nice Guy.

Ellen Ripley represents the LSU Tiger Girls in her Baton Rouge story

Jane Funk represents the Pink Flamingos of Baton Rouge

Quinn Garrison during the formal wear presentation

Ekolu Brown

Emily Beck

Emcee Tim Taylor and Ellen Ripley

Sierra Shawver represents New Orleansborn Reese Witherspoon

Gabrielle Brgquist is crowned first runnerup to Miss Teen New Buffalo

Jackie Marquez is crowned Miss Teen New Buffalo 2025

Sierra Shawver is crowned second runner-up to Miss New Buffalo

Jane Funk, Ellen Ripley and Sierra Shawver perform the opening number

The contestants during the opening number

The 2024 court performs their final dance number

Kayden Hall and Ekolu Brown are crowned co-Mr. New Buffalos

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Sierra Shawver

Gabrielle Bergquist

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 11

Ellen Ripley

Jane Funk is crowned first runner-up to Miss New Buffalo

Emcee Tim Taylor poses a question to Jane Funk

Jane Funk

Miss New Buffalo 2024 Audrey Proctor

A

Lexie Jaspering

Lily Jaspering is crowned first runner-up to Little Miss New Buffalo

Emily Beck is crowned second runner-up to Miss Teen New Buffalo

The 2025 royal court backstage

Quinn Garrison is crowned Little Miss New Buffalo 2025

senior at New Buffalo High school, Kayden is in the Spanish National Honor Society, manages the girl’s basketball team and assists with the student senate food drive. He also runs track and cross country.

Kayden’s future aspirations include attending Indiana University to study pre-law to become a lawyer.

“I’m very happy with the people that I’m surrounded with in the 2025 court,” he said.

A senior at New Buffalo High School, Ekolu has received the “champion of the year” award in football. He has been part of the football and basketball programs as well as Peer to Peer.

“It’s just a good community to be around and a lot of people to meet - I believe we’ll have a good time in this group,” Ekolu said.

Crowned 2025 Miss Teen New Buffalo was Jackie Marquez.

The daughter of Guadalupe Hernandez and Francisco Marquez, Jackie is an eighth grader at New Buffalo Middle School. She loves working out and baking, chicken alfredo and the book, “It Ends With Us.” Jackie said that being crowned taught her to not worry and believe that the best will happen.

“Sometimes it’s just the best feeling to know that you might earn something,” she said, adding that she had to put in a “lot of hard work” during the competition.

Crowned first runner-up and second-runner-up were Gabrielle Bergquist and Emily Beck, respectively.

The daughter of Jason and Karie Bergquist, Gabrielle is an

eighth grader at New Buffalo Middle School, who loves writing, Fettuccine Alfredo and the book, “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.”

The daughter of Amber Schroeder and Ryan Beck, Emily Beck attends the eighth grade at New Buffalo Middle School. She enjoys drawing, eating gumbo and the book, “Percy Jackson and the Battle of the Labyrinth.”

A second grader at New Buffalo Elementary School, Quinn Garrison was crowned 2025 Little Miss New Buffalo.

The daughter of Katie and James Garrison, Quinn enjoys steak, the book, “Pengwee’s Breath, gymnastics and hanging out with friends.

“I want to be with all my friends and hang out” was what Quinn said she most looks forward to while being on the royal court.

Crowned first runner-up was Lily Jaspering, who attends second grade at New Buffalo Elementary School.

The daughter of Wesley and Jennica Jaspering, Lily enjoys pasta, the book, “Green Eggs and Ham” and playing with her mom.

L

ast year, Lily was crowned second runner-up to Little Miss New Buffalo.

Also competing in the Little Miss competition were Lexie Jaspering, Blake Troxell and Zoey O’Connell.

Judges for the Miss New Buffalo were Christopher Shaw, Alesia Shaw and Tyanna Essig. Judges for Mr. New Buffalo, Miss Teen and Little Miss New Buffalo were Alyse Perry, Kristin Albers and Linda Klein.

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12 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Major drug bust stops driver returning from Chicago

A

An out of state man is accused of passing through northern La Porte County with 60 pounds of marijuana along with more than 900 THC vape cartridges.

Jamal Verdun, 35, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 5 felony dealing in marijuana.

According to court documents, the man was stopped Nov. 13 for traveling at a high rate of speed through a construction zone and tailgating a semi-truck on the Indiana Toll Road near Rolling Prairie.

A La Porte County Police officer becoming increasingly suspicious about possible criminal activity called for a drug sniffing dog, which detected the presence of narcotics in the suspect’s BMW, according to court documents.

During a search of the vehicle, police said vacuum sealed packages of marijuana were found inside three cardboard boxes in the backseat of the vehicle along with THC vape cartridges inside two suitcases and another cardboard box.

The investigation revealed Verdun recently moved from Oregon to Washington D.C. and was returning to the nation’s capital a day after making the drive to Chicago.

Police said a notebook containing information about suspected drug transactions was also recovered from the car.

Verdun, who was being held in the La Porte County Jail on $15,000 bond, could face an up to six year prison sentence. — STAN MADDUX

A

Satanic organization forms at Michigan City High School

BY STAN MADDUX

new student led satanic organization has formed at Michigan City High School, generating concern and alarm within the community judging by numerous posts on social media.

Members of the “High School Satan Club” are students who started Nov. 1 holding meetings after school in the building.

The club is affiliated with The Satanic Temple based in Salem, Massachusetts.

According to the TST website, there is an application process to follow for clubs seeking their designation as a local branch of their High School Satan Club.

School officials themselves chose not to comment but the corporation released a statement, saying there was a request by students to form the club.

Officials said the request could not be denied under federal law, which also gives students in the club and other extracurricular groups the right to meet at the school.

“The school and district are not affiliated with the club,” school officials said.

Pastor Geoff Safirt with Faith City Assembly of God Church in Michigan City said he perfectly understands the concerns expressed on social media, initially, but urged people not to greet club members with hatred or conflict.

Safirt said he believes the best public response is to lead members of the group into a better place by reaching out with “the love of Christ” and showing them that he has a plan and purpose for their lives.

“It’s really hearing what they have to say and understand what they say and choosing to love them even though there may be a difference of opinion,” he said.

Under the Equal Access Act of 1984, public schools with at least one student led extracurricular club that meets after school must allow other clubs to be organized and give them access to meeting spaces.

The law does provide for exceptions if student groups interfere with the orderly conduct of educational activities within the school.

Schools also have the option of eliminating a club but only if they eliminate all student extra-curricular groups.

In compliance with the law, “Michigan City Area Schools does not deny any group an opportunity to meet on the basis of the religious, political, philosophical, or other content of the activity,” school

officials said.

School officials also revealed club meeting are supervised by a “volunteer faculty sponsor.”

Currently, Michigan City High School has 42 clubs and organizations that “reflect the diverse interests of the student body. Participation in all clubs is always voluntary,” school officials said.

Safirt said members of the club should also be treated with empathy because heading in that direction often stems from the pain and grief of being hurt or negatively impacted by some other bad experience.

“We have an opportunity to show them something different,” he said.

According to the Satanic Temple website, the organization was formed in 2013 and has waged campaigns to preserve and advance secularism.

The group also claims to be “the primary religious satanic organization in the world with congregations internationally.”

According to the website, TST operates on seven guiding principles.

The principles include acting with compassion “in accordance with reason” and respecting the freedoms of others “including the freedom to reoffend.”

The final tenet states “the spirit of compassion, wisdom and justice should always prevail over the written or spoken word.”

Safirt pointed out that he has talked with some students in the satanic club and other people “attached to the situation.”

J

udging from their responses, he believes members of the club might not be into worshipping Satan but simply acting as non-believers of anything on a need to no longer feel overlooked.

“It’s more of an atheist club using the name of Satan to get people interested and draw attention. It’s a cry for attention,” he said.

Several weeks ago, Safirt said some youth group members of his church started the process of forming a “Jesus club” at the school.

He said the intent is not to shut down the satanic club or make its members feel uncomfortable.

Instead, Safirt said their aim is for all students to rely on Jesus for hope and treat others with his love, mercy and grace.

“It’s going to draw people to that. The Satanist club probably won’t last very long as a result of it, he said.

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14 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

A Writer’s Life...

F

DURING THE GOLDEN AGE OF TELEVISION ANIMATION

BY JACK OLESKER

irst things first…

As I said, in this column I’m writing about the Golden Age of television animation. So I’ll leave epic animated films like Fantasia and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs out of it.

Putting aside animated films, many fans contend TheGolden Age of Television Animation began on August 1st, 1950, when Crusader Rabbit debuted in Crusader vs. the State of Texas on KNBH in Los Angeles followed by Roger Ramjet and Atom Ant – and no, not Atom Ant the 1970s singer.

There’s no question a slew of iconic cartoon characterswho got their start in ‘shorts’ on the big screen made the transition to television. Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Pepé le Pew, Foghorn Leghorn and countless others had a big impact on television.

However, the true ‘Golden Age of Television Animation’ was driven by series that contained real stories, and that began in the early 1980s and extended into the 1990s. Artwork evolved as well. Before the1980s almost all television animation was ‘limited animation’ – i.e., backgrounds were used over and over. To see what I mean, watch any episode of The Road Runner Show, featuring Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner, and you’ll see the same boulders, buttes and mountains in the background used over and over and over.

That changed in the 1980s when animated television moved to ‘full’ animation, utilizing approximately 15,000 – and sometimes many more – hand-drawn ‘cels’ to achieve individual scenes.

For writers, there was another change, a lasting and powerful change : animation studios began demanding ‘real scripts’ for their series. That happened largely because of one man.

Except for animated films in the early days of animation and the notable exceptions of The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle, The Flintstones and, later, The Jetsons, in the early days of television’s animated series, there were few animation ‘writers’ around. Most of the ‘writing’ was done by animation artists who wrote a few lines of dialogue here and there to keep the ‘story’, such as it

was, moving along.

Then, in 1981, a Frenchman named Jean Chalopin changed everything with an animated series entitled Ulysses 31. The fully realized storylines pitted a spaceship crew struggling against divine entities. Imagine asking animators to write a few lines here and there to keep that kind of story moving along!

While the series was successful in Europe, it wouldn’t be until 1986 that Ulysses 31 aired in America. No matter. By then Jean Chalopin had changed the concept of animated television series.

Jean was a visionary and I was fortunate to work with him during The Golden Age of Television Animation. He sensed children wanted to be shown a real story and that they had become more sophisticated than children from previous generations. So, he sought writers who could tell real stories.

I

was one of them. Here are a few of the many series I wrote for Jean: The Littles, Care Bears, Hello Kitty’s Furry Tale Theater, The New Adventures of He-man, M.A.S.K., Super Mario Brothers Super Show, Popples, The Bots Master, King Arthur & The Knights of Justice, Lady Lovely Locks, The Get Along Gang.

Oh, and one more that I didn’t write for Jean, but – taking a brief detour into live action -- instead created the original development work for: Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.

And that’s just the tip of my iceberg!

As people in my industry used to say back then, “Stay tuned…”

Jack Olesker’s career in the entertainment industry spans over four decades. He has served as a story editor in L.A. as well as president of a motion picture and television company in Chennai, India. His writing ranges from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Care Bears and Hello Kitty’s Furry Tale Theater to documentaries and horror novels and murder mysteries for adults.

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HOR0SCOPE N0VEMBER 21-27, 2024 AS INTERPRETED BY SANDY “STAR” BENDT

ARIES MARCH 21—APRIL 19

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER22—DECEMBER21

The vibe coming at you this week is very expansive and optimistic; broadening your perspective and helping you move forward in life. The only hitch is getting in sync with others, either financially or intimately. There could be some issues that will flare up now surrounding sharing or dividing money.

The vibe coming at you this week is loaded with potential. Embrace your creative powers and trust that the things you are working on will be successful. You have the potential to create a name for yourself. The only thing holding you back are your self-imposed boundaries.

The stars are beaming a very positive vibration towards you this week, giving you the motivation to end bad habits and take more control over your daily life. Deciding on exactly what you need to stop doing or what you need to leave behind could create a problem.

Use discernment.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

CAPRICORN DECEMBER22—JANUARY19

Dig deep Taurus.

This is a very intense period, pushing you to look deeper into commitments and to uncover your deeper feelings. The theme now is all about transforming your relationships and balancing out the give and take that exists between you and partners.

The mood this week is very quiet and peaceful, don’t fight it. Really embrace relaxing and recharging now. Embrace emotions and give yourself the space to feel how you feel.

Don’t worry about explaining, or trying to define your feelings, just embrace them fully and let them diminish.

This is a very sensitive and empathic time for Capricorn. There is a special kind of knowing coming your way this week. Embrace it but don’t intrude on others, even if you know what they are going through something.

This vibe is all about gently detaching, while being uber sensitive.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

The energy coming in this week is focused in on your one-onone relationships, making you realize how important it is be direct and upfront with your communication style. Embrace what you need or how you would like things to go and don’t be shy about telling people.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The spotlight is on dealing with people that you have shared experiences with or people you have to share things with. Meaning rivalries with siblings, schoolmates or coworkers could flare up now. Know that you have the opportunity to grow as an individual because of others.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

Getting involved in community projects is highlighted now.

This is the time to give generously and get involved in helping others. You may not realize how much people look up to you or depend on you, so be sure to operate from a place of integrity and get ready to give and receive support.

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

This is the time to get serious about your health and wellness routines. Embrace treating yourself better by sticking to a solid routine and getting a good night’s sleep.

Situations with friends could get stressful now, so why not spend some time alone pumping some iron or getting a massage.

This is the time to hone in on your resources and get serious about taking care of yourself financially. Take pride in your ability to pay bills and be frugal. Of all the signs, you have a way of manifesting the things you need and you know how to get the most out of it.

This is the time to stand in your power and know that you know what’s best for you. Stand firm in your ideas and take the lead. Now is the time to guide situations and ensure that you are getting your fair share. The urge to walk away and give up your pursuits may be strong but stay the course.

All things are subject to interpretation whichever interpretation prevails at a given time is a function of power and not truth. — Friedrich Nietzsche

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 17

Van used as weapon alleged against driver

A

BY STAN MADDUX

La Porte man is accused of chasing someone through yards and nearly running him over with his minivan.

Brian Thomas, 42, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 6 felony criminal recklessness and Class A misdemeanor intimidation.

According to court documents, the investigation shows Thomas on November 10 answered the door at a home on Albin Dr. The man standing outside the doorway asked if his ex-girlfriend happened to be was there so they could just talk.

Following a heated exchange, the man left and was walking along the street

when Thomas pulled up in a van.

Police said Thomas was holding a knife while threatening to run over the man and kill him.

The man struck the van with a helmet and took off running.

Polcie said Thomas backed up in a driveway on Ohio St. and went after the man through the yards of at least two homes.

The investigation shows the man jumped out of the way to avoid being struck by the van, which then left the scene, according to court documents.

Thomas, who was booked into the La Porte County Jail four days later, was being held on $755 bond.

Prison guard caught twice with contraband

A

BY STAN MADDUX

Chicago woman employed as a prison guard in Westville is accused of trying to smuggle marijuana and other contraband to inmates.

Salina Newton, 43, is charged in La Porte Superior Court 2 with two counts of Level 5 felony trafficking with an inmate.

According to court documents, prison security during a routine pat down search felt a hard object between her upper legs while Newton was reporting for work on November 14 at Westville Correctional Facility.

A package wrapped in black electrical

tape was discovered after she complied with requests to remove her pants.

The package allegedly contained about a quarter ounce of marijuana, nearly a half ounce of tobacco and 150 rolling papers.

After transported to the La Porte County Jail, Newton during a strip search was found with another wrapped in black electrical tape package inside a body cavity, authorities said.

That package allegedly contained similar amounts of marijuana, tobacco and suboxone.

Newton could face an up to six year sentence on each count.

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18 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Author Becky Kliss talks 1980s childhood at New Buffalo library REMEMBERING HER ROOTS

S

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

eeing as how she holds fond memories from her first job of being surrounded by books at New Buffalo Township Library, it would make sense that Becky Kliss would return there to give her first talk as a full fledged author.

“I’m very grateful to be back at the library because this has always been a special place for me,” she said to those who had gathered in the library’s Pokagon Room Tuesday, Nov. 12.

Published by Invincible Press, “When We Were Invincible: Life Lessons from the ’80s That Defined a Generation,” is now available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon and booksellers nationwide.

The first of three in the “Invincible ’80s” series, Kliss said it deals with “work, money and choices of our time,” particularly from her childhood in New Buffalo.

Kliss said the origins of the book can be traced back to when she was jotting down stories with her best friend, Robin.

“We just kept writing and next thing you know, we had a whole bookshelf of books that we wrote,” Kliss said.

Spelling errors notwithstanding, the stories have been a treasure trove of knowledge with regards to a childhood that was fully immersed in the 1980s.

“The notes that we saved and all the memorabilia that we saved has made stellar information for the book because it kind of tells us exactly what we were thinking and doing in the ’80s,” Kliss said.

Decades later, Kliss was stuck “staring at the walls” while dealing with Covid. Too sick to be on her phone, watch television or even listen to her beloved 1980s tunes, Kliss contemplated her current life.

“I started thinking about my life and my purpose and I’m in my 50s now: Where’s life going?” she said.

One night, she was sitting with her “girls’ squad” at Sneaky Pete’s in Florida. Suddenly, a man with “liquid courage” plopped down next to Robin, who was sitting by herself on one side of the table, and asked her this question: “So what’s your story?”

“Afterwards, I started thinking about it: So what is your story? What is everyone’s story because we all have a story,” Kliss said.

The chance encounter caused Kliss to expand her book’s purpose from being just about herself

to being about Generation X: the “latchkey,” “forgotten” and “sandwich” generation.

This caused Kliss to stretch the book’s reach to being about all the generations.

“When you really study and look at our generation, we see both sides of a lot of things…

We see before technology, we see when values were more old-fashioned and then we try to jump onboard and get on with technology and keep up with the times and now, we’re in our 50s and were kind of in this conundrum,” Kliss said.

After consulting with fellow Generation Xers on social media, Kliss learned that they are coming up against the same challenges: aging parents, retirement and getting up in the morning and having their “knees creak and we have to oil our bones up to get moving again.”

They were the first generation to have a high number of working mothers, to have divorced parents and to witness friends coming out of the closet. They were also the first to play video games like PacMan, to write term papers on the computer and to use the Internet daily.

T

hey were the last to use rotary phones, to run around unsupervised on “dangerous” playground equipment and to come home when the streetlights came on.

Noting that music played a pivotal role in her generation’s coming of age stories, Kliss said that every chapter has been given the title of a song that corresponds best with the chapter’s respective topic.

At the end of each chapter, readers are presented with activities that they can do that will jog their memories of growing up in the ’80s.

Over 450 quotes pepper the book’s pages.

The quotes are mainly from the over 200,000 Generation Xers who belong to the Facebook group of which Kliss is a part.

“While pop culture, MTV, music, movies and styles unite us, what deeply connects our generation is that most of us relate to coming from a time when we lived a more carefree, less complicated life,” Kliss said.

For more information on the “Invincible ’80s” series, visit www.beckykliss.com.

Becky Kliss poses with her dad and mom, Robert and Connie, a former director of the library, and brother, Jeff

Becky Kliss discusses her book in the Pokagon Room

Fellow New Buffalo graduates Lisa Siebenmark, Becky Kliss, Rennie Burian and Robin Galloway pose after the talk

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