December 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 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 49, volume 80

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

Three Oaks Village Council hears wastewater system feasibility study results PAGE 5 Dunewalk vanishes from New Buffalo lakefront - for now PAGE 6

Santa arrives at the ‘Center of the World’ PAGE 10

Financial literacy comes alive for students with Bison Credit Union PAGE 17 Stepping up enforcement to address speed-related fatalities PAGE 19

WHAT’S YOUR PICK...

BOOK VENDING MACHINES UNVEILED AT NEW BUFFALO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL — PAGE 9 —

PHOTO OF MELISSA LIJEWSKI HELPING NASH GRANT CHOOSE THE FIRST BOOKS FROM THE VENDING MACHINE BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Chamber launches new interactive website feature highlighting outdoor activities

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et outside this weekend with must-attend events throughout the area.

Harbor Country’s newest If you would like to explore more of the interactive tool: a newly Harbor Country outdoors and would like launched site designed by suggestions, please visit the website at officials with the Harbor www.harborcountry.org/the-outdoors Country Chamber of Commerce to The Harbor Country Chamber of highlight many of the outdoor activities Commerce is the center of business, and attractions offered in the area. tourism, and commerce for the eight “We are fortunate communities that make to have a wide variety “We are fortunate up the region along the of outdoor recreation to have a wide Lake Michigan Shoreline. opportunities available variety of outdoor With over 400 members, year-round in Berrien recreation the Chamber serves as County,” said Kimberlee opportunities the central source of Wendt, executive director available yearinformation for business of the Harbor Country round in Berrien interests, community County,” said Chamber of Commerce. services, and tourism.

Kimberlee Wendt, “From hiking and crossexecutive director country ski trails to parks he Chamber of the Harbor and nature preserves and applied for Country Chamber of other hidden gems, this and was Commerce. “From new webpage highlights awarded a hiking and crossthem all.” technical country ski trails to Developed by a assistance grant by the parks and nature generous grant from Antero Group, a civil preserves and Antero Group, this online engineering, urban other hidden gems, Story map is a completely planning, and strategic this new webpage interactive webpage which highlights them all.” consulting firm that features 51 outdoor points has been working to of interest in Berrien support area initiatives.

County waiting for you to discover. Web This tool highlights the importance of visitors can explore the outdoors with collaboration and innovation as new an interactive map that allows users events and areas open for visitor and to filter by category and distance from resident use! their location. Each map point provides For additional information/inquiries, a GPS coordinate to easily navigate to email jthompson@chikamingopenlands. trailheads and launch ramps. It also incorporates an events calendar featuring org. — STAFF REPORTS

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HIKERS TO MAKE TREK TO GRAND MERE NEXT WEEK

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he Harbor Country Hikers will lead a hike at Grand Mere State Park at 2 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18.

HCH President Pat Fisher will discuss the geology behind the Grand Marais Embankment and presettlement history of the area in a brief talk before the group heads out for a twoand-a-half-mile hike. Grand Mere consists of almost 1,000 acres of undeveloped wetlands, woods, sand dunes and beach in Stevensville, Michigan. It was named a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in 1968, a designation that recognizes Grand Mere’s outstanding geology and value to science and education.

The hike is rated moderately physically difficult. For driving directions to the park and other details, visit the Hikers’ website, harborcountryhikers.com, or its Facebook page. Although membership in the group is strongly encouraged, its hikes are open to all, including children if accompanied by an adult.

Harbor Country Hikers offers an all-terrain Rollator--a wheeled walker with extra-large tires, for use on trails. The Rollator is available on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing harborcountryhikers@gmail.com.

— STAFF REPORTS

You will find poetry nowhere unless you bring some of it with you.

— Joseph Joubert

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 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 VILLAGE OF THREE OAKS BOARD Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7PM

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Chikaming planners recommend using Antero Group for Sawyer improvements

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

Red Arrow Highway up to embers of the Arlington Drive, where it’s Chikaming currently two lanes.

Township Member Jerry Kohn Planning added that plans are for it to Commission made a then start to “pinch down at recommendation to the the state highway or Biggby township board to solicit Coffee or somewhere right a proposal from The in there - it starts to narrow Antero Group for planned down to what amounts to improvements to Sawyer two lanes.” at their Wednesday, Dec. 1, He said the road meeting. department will only be Chair John Chipman dealing with the county’s said a public 66-foot right meeting with It was revealed of way on the Berrien at the meeting Red Arrow County Road that the Highway. proposed Sawyer Department Drainage improvements was held with will also be should begin around 20 looked at around the participants Fourth of July, within the last month. with plans to residential It was try to get it district. revealed at done before the Chipman the meeting holiday. said there are that the other issues proposed to consider with Sawyer, Sawyer improvements such as the fire station that’s should begin around the Fourth of July, with plans to currently sitting there, parking issues in Sawyer, try to get it done before the deterioration of public walks, holiday. how to configure parking and The scope of work will be where the curb cuts should from Red Arrow Highway go. all the way out to Flynn “There’s just a lot going Road through downtown on in Sawyer – so it’s Sawyer, Chipman said. a chance to bring in a He said the plans are to professional in to help stick with two lanes with a five-foot shoulder from plan,” he said, which

was the consensus of the meeting.Chipman said the township has worked with Antero Group, which “really put together the design” for the Union Pier/Red Arrow Highway Corridor Improvement Project.

Antero Group is also behind the planned Harbert streetscape project.

In addition to negotiating with Antero Group, another option was to put out a Request for Proposal (RFP) and outline with regards to the wants and needs for the project and give it out to several firms.

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lanner Cam Mammina agreed that Antero Group’s “proven track record” with the township, and that they already have an “idea” of Antero’s pricing based on their involvement with past projects, makes the design firm a good choice.

“Because we need to get this figured out well before July, it makes sense to just continue with this company,” he said.

Chipman said he believes that it would be an “expansion” of what they were already doing with Harbert and what they’ve

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

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done with Union Pier and that it’d be more “efficient to work with them.”

Planners approved the preliminary site plan as submitted for Section House Event Hall at 5896 Sawyer Rd. (formerly Sawyer Hardware and Lumber), which will be changing use from retail to event center, as well as setting a public hearing for the proposed center at the Planning Commission’s Wednesday, Jan. 5, meeting.

The planners approved a few land divisions and combinations: a Master Deed amendment to the original site plan to combine two lots on Hawthorne Lane in Lakeside, a parcel combination for 12347 Dunes Road in Sawyer, a requested boundary line adjustment as part of the Dunes Road property contingent upon the township receiving the payment and application

by Dec. 23, a requested land combination of two platted parcels at 15373 Lakeshore Rd. in Lakeside, and a land division at 13252 Pleasant Street in Harbert (which involves splitting the existing parcel into two conforming parcels).

Women are always eagerly on the lookout for any emotion. — Stendhal

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Three Oaks Village Council hears wastewater system feasibility study results

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embers of the Three Oaks Village Council heard results of a feasibility study regarding the village’s wastewater system Thursday, Dec. 2.

Mary Deneau Nykamp and Andrew Rudd of Wightman and Associates were both present to give the findings.

According to Rudd, the issues at the lagoon site have been identified and documented as far back as May 2015, A total of five violation notices have been received to date to address various issues.

A draft administrative consent order (ACO) was received in March 2021, and Wightman was engaged shortly thereafter.

Past studies that have been completed include a wastewater characterization study in 2018, an industrial pretreatment program review that was done in 2018 and a wastewater capacity study in 2019.

The scope of the current effort of Wightman is to identify the feasibility of a GRSD Authority connection, reviewing and utilizing past studies and assisting the village with the EGLE connection – which has been “significant,” Rudd said.

The regional treatment alternative involves the connection to the GRSD Authority.

In June, the village requested GRSD evaluate their system capacity for consideration of accepting the village’s wastewater for treatment.

The board was “receptive to a connection,” he said; however, their engineers review revealed they didn’t have sufficient capacity to accommodate the village’s flow currently and “significant capital improvements were required” to the GRSD wastewater treatment facility.

Rudd said the GRSD board came back with $5.3 million worth of improvements (the village allocation of GRSD upgrades) “just to their

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

wastewater treatment facility.”

Adding in the other costs, such as the need to decommission the existing lagoons, the four-mile force main from the lagoons to the GRSD system and the administrative engineering costs, and the entire project would be just over $11 million.

Rudd said that, in discussions with county staff and the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission over possible EDA grants and American Rescue Fund grants that may be out there, it was learned that the highest grant that can be expected from EDA is $3 million, which isn’t “quite enough to bring that $11 million down to what our next alternative is going to look like.”

“With that $3 million, and if we got a half million form the county and the village issued a $3 million bond, you’d still be $3 to $4 million short,” he said.

The local alternative would include the installation of an aeration system into the existing lagoons for increasing treatment capacity as well as to sell one of the lagoons.

In addition to aeration, other improvements include improving the existing lift station in “fair to poor condition” and repairing erosion along the south and west banks of the lagoons. Rudd said they received a memo from the state that night that addresses some of the erosion repair or relining of the lagoons “which could have an impact on these costs,” he said.

The improvements have an estimated cost of $2.4 million, which doesn’t include the possible relining of the lagoons.

Rudd said they’re hoping they can just correct the erosion on only the banks of all three ponds.

He added that they could apply to the EDA for grants, but it isn’t as “favorable of a project” for one.

“It’s still economic development arguably, but it’s not the same scale as a regional treatment plant would be

for economic development, so I think our chance for getting a grant would be much less,” he said.

Regardless of what alternative was selected, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) would require an Industrial Pretreatment Program (IPP) if nondomestic customers are allowed to discharge to the sanitary system.

Councilmembers approved implementing a high-strength wastewater customer investigation, in the amount of $21,024.

Rudd said sampling that would be done would “basically create a list that shows which users are high strength” within the village.

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yKamp said the samplers could be in place by the second week of January at the earliest. If decision was made that night, she said next week, they’ll come out and look at the nine designated sites within the village with the laboratory.

The laboratory would be setting the samplers, which would go into a manhole and stay there for seven days.

“In this proposal, we’re saying that we’re going to use the water account data to then take this concentration data and you put them together and you come up with what you call a loading,” she said.

Councilmembers said that they were concerned because some of the businesses close in January and don’t reopen until the spring, which could prevent an accurate sampling.

Village attorney Charles Hilmer said that the state is very concerned that the village get started on the process “as soon as possible.” He added that a list could be compiled of businesses that are suspected to be contributing that are closing, thereby making the results less “representative.” A “grace period” may then be granted until the businesses are open and running again.

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LASATA CONGRATULATES CASSOPOLIS ON NEW EQ UNITED EXPANSION

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tate Sen. Kim LaSata applauded EQ United for choosing southwest Michigan for its new expansion, saying the new development will provide an economic boost to the area and bring with it a number of openings for goodpaying jobs.

“This is an exciting development for the village of Cassopolis,” said LaSata, R-Coloma. “I applaud local leaders for their hard work to attract new investments and opportunities and thank the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for enabling projects that make such a difference in communities across the state.”

EQ United was founded in Elkhart, Indiana, and is a manufacturer of components for RVs and trailers. The company currently has three campuses in Indiana, and Cassopolis was chosen for its newest development to consolidate operations over competing sites in Indiana. The new expansion will house office space, retail and installation space and additional manufacturing areas.

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $6.2 million and create up to 175 jobs.

“This announcement is great news for the local economy and will provide a number of opportunities for area families,” LaSata said. “Michigan and manufacturing go hand in hand and this project will only help further southwest Michigan’s role in the industry.” — STAFF

REPORTS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Journeyman breaks ground in Valparaiso

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n Dec. 3, Journeyman Distillery officially broke ground on a historic restoration project in Valparaiso, transforming the formerly abandoned Anco windshield wiper factory into a 140,000-square foot destination which includes plans for a distillery, brewery, whiskey garden, American fare restaurant and steakhouse, karaoke, and event spaces in carefully restored and repurposed factory spaces.

The site, located on the 300 block of South Campbell, dates to one of the first woolen mills in Porter County, established just after the Civil War. Through the years, the location was home to a wagon and carriage company, soap company, Fontaine Brothers Pin Factory, and, most recently as the Anco windshield wiper factory. Since the mid-1980s, the property has been virtually vacant.

“Journeyman Distillery in Valparaiso is an exciting next step for the Welter family,” said Journeyman Owner and Operator Bill Welter.

Having first arrived in Valparaiso in the early 1900s, the Welter family has had continuous business operations in the community since the early 1970s. Bill Welter follows in the footsteps of father, Chuck Welter and grandfather, Bill Welter, as he embarks on the latest adventure in Valparaiso.

“As a city, we recognized the potential of this property with its proximity to our historic downtown,” said Mayor Matt Murphy who was a member of the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission in 2017 when the commission acquired the brownfield property that included the factory.

A year later, Bill Welter presented his vision of elevating the property by transforming it into a second Journeyman Distillery, similar in nature to the project in Three Oaks Michigan where Journeyman transformed the former Featherbone Corset Factory into a true destination including distillery, restaurant, and event space.

“The Valparaiso Journeyman Distillery will elevate this property to a true destination and provide further development opportunities for this excellent location adjacent to our downtown, including hundreds of jobs,” said Murphy.

“Further, part of this exciting development will house the City’s Transit Center and the shared parking lot will also serve passengers of our Dash commuter bus service. We’re very excited to see this project take shape and thank all of the organizations and people who have come together to make it possible.”

Those organizations include the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission, Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA), Northern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (NIRPC), and the Indiana Economic Development Commission (IEDC).

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ill Welter spoke of tremendous gratitude and appreciation to the leadership in the community stating that “leap and the net will appear” indicating that the net in Valparaiso is strong and wide with the support of his Journeyman team, the community, and leadership from the city itself. Welter went on to thank Rob Thorgren and Patrick Lyp of the Redevelopment Commission, the IEDC, RDA, NPS, family and friends for the support given to the project. He thanked the loyal Journeyman fans, retailers, and restaurateurs for their support over the last decade of business.

“There is really nothing more exciting than talking about what could be - the possibilities of something great. The potential, the energy, is palatable here today,” said Welter. “The grit and determination that was needed to get here… if today is any indication, the sky is the limit.”

To prepare the location for development, the City of Valparaiso has invested in necessary environmental cleanup, preserved the historic water tower, and made infrastructure improvements, including aligning the street.

The groundbreaking celebration was attended by hundreds of supporters and included tours of the existing spaces as well as a peek at the plans. Journeyman intends to begin construction in the coming weeks, with plans to open in stages, beginning early in 2023. For more information about Journeyman Distillery, visit www. journeyman.com. — STAFF REPORTS

Dunewalk vanishes from New Buffalo lakefront - for now

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same spot will be handicapped accessible with ramps, instead of stairs, for users to navigate from end to end.

Watson said the hope is to shouldn’t be start conlong before struction in new memthe spring ories start and be being made finished on its reor nearly placement. completThe ed before dunewalk Memorial has been reDay. moved from He said a the hilly $150,000 and sandy ground just MDNR east of the grant will The dunewalk being demolished concession help pay (photo provided by City of New Buffalo Facebook) stand at for the the public estimated beach. $400,000 City Manager Darwin Watson cost of the new dunewalk. said Anlaan Corporation out of Watson said the city will pay Grand Haven started the work the rest of the expense unless Nov. 29 and finished the next more outside dollars are unday. expectedly awarded to further “They got in and got it done offset the cost. real quick,” he said.

The dunewalk, which was Watson said the cost of the nestled on top of a sand dune, demolition and hauling away was heavily used not just for the materials should come in at exercise but to enhance views of about $440,000. the lakefront.

A $220,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natnce closed, Watson ural Resources along with said signs and other $110,000 apiece from the city materials were used and The Pokagon Fund will covto discourage peoer the expense, he said. ple from walking it, The dunewalk, which was but not everyone could resist built roughly two decades ago, temptation. was closed to the public in reA lot of time was spent by the cent years because of hazards park department “chasing peolike wooden steps no ple off of it,” he said. longer safe to walk on.

The new dunewalk at the — STAN MADDUX hile a popular fixture at the lakefront in New Buffalo is only a memory now, it

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

SPORTS

Lady Bison stung by Bees

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BY STAN MADDUX

young New Buffalo High School girls’ basketball team facing quality opponents is off to a rough start to the season.

The Lady Bison with just two returning seniors from last year’s squad lost to Bridgman at home Friday, Dec. 3, 48-20 after dropping the season opener on the road to Brandywine 60-20.

New Buffalo Head Coach Dave Kelly believes the team, which has mostly juniors, sophomores and freshmen, has the potential to compete at a higher level as the season goes along.

“I think we can close that gap on some of these teams that have jumped out,” he said.

Bridgman was leading 7-0 when senior Aaron James sank a lay-up underneath the backboard for New Buffalo.

A bucket down low from junior Lexie Parmley and jump shots from James along with senior Georgia Arvanitis followed but the Lady Bison couldn’t keep up with the scoring from Bridgman, which led 28-8 at halftime.

Arvanitis, who looked dazzling at times, scored all seven points for the Lady Bison in the third quarter until James sank a 35-footer at the buzzer

going into the final period.

The only fourth quarter points for New Buffalo came from Arvanitis nailing a threepoint shot along the baseline.

Kelly said his team allowed Bridgman to be able to move quickly with the ball to convert too many defensive rebounds into fast break points.

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eniors Maggie Griffiths and Arie Hackett, along with freshman Tatyanna Hill, were major contributors for Bridgman.

The Bees have four other high-quality players who are freshmen.

“Those girls can play,” Kelly said.

He said the team against Brandywine was hurt most from getting badly outrebounded on both sides of the court.

“The name of the game is getting the ball up to the basket and we weren’t doing that,” he said.

Kelly said the strategy right now in a rebuilding year is players from game experience getting better as the season goes along.

“It’s definitely back to fundamentals and running our program the way we like to see it run,” he said.

I’m coming for all of you.

— Khamzat Chimaev

From the Bleachers COLUMN BY KURT MARGGRAF IN CHICAGO

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hose of you who follow this column are aware of the fact that I don’t pay a lot of attention to college football. Growing up and spending my life in Chicago, I’ve always been a Bears fan.

While I respect and admire college and minor league athletes and teams, newscasts and newspapers focused on our local, professional teams, and soon these teams dominated my sports attention. It wasn’t always this way. As a boy, I used to walk with my dad to the drugstore on Saturday night to pick up the Sunday Tribune. When we got home we would pour over the sports pages and read about Notre Dame, Ohio State, Michigan, Southern Cal, etc..

The east coast teams always had final scores because of the time difference, so I became a fan of such teams as Colgate, Fordham, Harvard, and Yale.

I went to college at Southern Illinois University and went to all the games, but basketball was a bigger sport down there. Then I got a job, got married, had children, and had a significant drop in free time, so my sports attention went to my kids and our Bears, Cubs, Sox, Bulls, and Blackhawks.

I have paid a little attention to Michigan’s football team lately, mainly because former Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh is now their coach.

Harbaugh’s tenure began in 2015, and while the team won many games, their inability to beat arch rival Ohio State seemed like it might cost him his job.

Instead of firing Harbaugh the University gave him a four year extension and everyone rolled up their sleeves and went to work. The decision to keep the coach rather than starting over paid off handsomely for the maize

and blue. The only blemish on their record this year was a poorly officiated loss to Michigan State. The team was finally able to knock off highly rated Ohio State 42-27, and Saturday night they pummeled Iowa 42-3 to win the Big Ten Championship.The victory left them ranked second in the country, with a very difficult road to win the National championship. First, they have to beat Georgia, then either Cincinnati, or more likely first ranked Alabama, to be champs. I had the pleasure of sitting next to an Iowa fan while Michigan was running up the score against them and asked him how he felt about it. To his credit, he said he didn’t mind because the Wolverines were hunting for the number one rating and they were clearly that much better than his team.

Anyway, when the Wolverines take on Georgia on New Year’s Eve to determine which team will participate in the title game, I’ll be rooting for them.

A couple of quick baseball notes.

Hooray for former White Sox outfielder Minnie Minoso, finally making the hall of fame. And finally, the Cubs made a move and it was a great one. They signed Marcus Stroman to a three year deal. Stroman is an excellent pitcher as well as an excellent human being.

When the lock out ends, let’s hope they sign a few more high quality men.

Bo Schembechler, former University of Michigan football coach, said, “Those who stay will be champions.”

It certainly worked for coach Harbaugh and his team.

Happy holidays. Refuse hate. Talk to you next week. Peace, love, and happiness.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

CHEERLEADER PERFORMS IN HAWAII

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La Porte High School senior was among a select number of cheerleaders and dancers from across the country who performed in a parade in Hawaii this week.

Before she left, Emma Fleshman was going bananas just thinking about being on the island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean for her very first time.

“I’m excited,” she said.

Fleshman and her mother, Stephanie, caught a flight for Honolulu on Dec. 3 at Midway Airport in Chicago.

She and more than 600 high school cheerleaders and dancers were selected for the trip based on their performance during summer tryouts sponsored by Varsity Spirit.

Varsity Spirit, which is a global leading company in cheerleading, dance team and band apparel, hosts camps and competitions throughout the country.

Fleshman has been a cheerleader since the seventh grade.

She tried out for a Varsity Spirit event in two previous years but was not selected until after performing at a cheerleading camp hosted

by Varsity Spirit in July at Saint Mary’s College in South Bend.

Fleshman described herself as liking but also a little nervous about her chances this year and was bursting with joy when chosen.

“I cried. I was so excited.

I wanted this since my freshman year. I knew I had it in me,” she said.

Fleshman performed with the Varsity Spirit AllAmericans prior to the opening ceremony of the Varsity Spirit Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade from Dec. 4-8.

She was also in the parade before thousands of spectators lining the streets of Waikiki Beach.

This year’s parade marked the 80th anniversary of the Dec. 7 attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor.

“Remembering the past and celebrating our future” was the theme of this year’s parade.

Fleshman said she and her mother made a list of things to do before like going to the beach, exploring nature and trying out some of the restaurants and bakeries prior to returning to home.

T

hey also attended a luau hosted by Varsity Spirit for the cheerleaders and dancers.

Fleshman said she plans to attend Purdue University at West Lafayette next year and major in cyber security and forensic science.

She’s not sure if she’ll try out for the cheerleading squad because of the demands from her class schedule.

Being a huge Boilermakers fan, though, Fleshman said she can picture herself as a cheerleader during football games and other sporting events.

“It might be a last minute let’s do this and see what happens. Who knows right now,” she said. — STAN

MADDUX

9

Book vending machines unveiled at New Buffalo Elementary School

N

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

ow students have the option of punching in a code in a vending machine – a book vending machine, that is – to enjoy a

Bowen said the school wrote a grant through The Pokagon Fund, and each party contributed one third of the cost toward the machines and for the round of books.

Currently, Lijewski said she has about 1,200 books.

Jean Haskins, president of the PTO, said that she hopes students have fun picking out the books and bringing them home.

“It was a joint effort and a great Ben Parker, Tom Rosenbluth, Michelle Hannon, partnership and Michelle Pliske, Melissa Lijewksi, Adam Bowen I’m so happy to and Jean Haskins by the vending machine be a part of it,” she said.

good read at New Buffalo Elementary School.

The vending machines were unveiled during a Zoom presentation at the elementary school Monday, Dec. 6. The one for students in grades pre-K through second grade is located by the school’s entrance, while the one for third through fifth graders is located near the library.

Melissa Lijewski, Title 1 coordinator, said that each student will be receiving five tokens, which will allow them to pick out five books from the machines: one at Monday’s grand opening, one before winter break, one for March is Reading Month, one before school lets out for the summer, and one for their birthday.

She added that students may also be able to earn the tokens.

“We’re talking about using them as incentives for behavior and other academic things,” she said.

The vending machines were made possible through the school, the New Buffalo Parent/ Teacher Organization (PTO), the Rotary Club of Harbor Country, and The Pokagon Fund.

New Buffalo Elementary School Principal Adam Bowen said that another school district, Hartford Public Schools, has also done vending machines.

“I’ve always been big into promoting literacy in our schools and I think when you can make it fun and exciting, that just brings it up to a whole new level and that just encourages students to read,” he said.

The overall cost of the project (including the purchase of the books) was around $16,000.

F

or years, the Rotarians have done the birthday book program, during which books are distributed each month to children who have a birthday that month.

Tom Rosenbluth, president of the Rotary Club of Harbor Country as well as a member of the club’s literacy committee, said that children will be receiving tokens now when it’s their birthday month, so they can choose their own book.

“We’ve always funded birthday books for every student in River Valley (School District) and in New Buffalo – the only variation here is we’re doing it through the machines this time instead of wrapping them individually and giving it to them,” he said.

The birthday book program should resume in January. For those students who had fall birthdays, Rosenbluth said that a big party will be held, allowing students to pick out their books.

“We think that reading is one of life’s greatest adventures and it opens doors to whether you want to be a pirate or have a fantasy adventure or learn about science - we are thrilled to experiment with book vending machines and looking forward to ongoing work with you,” he said to the students.

www.newbuffalotimes.com

10 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

S

Santa arrives at the ‘Center of the World’

BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

anta paid a visit to the Center of the World when he rode in the shiny red Weesaw Township fire truck to the Friends of New Troy Community Center Saturday, Dec. 4.

A small crowd of children, parents and friends gathered around the Christmas tree, singing traditional Christmas carols to herald Santa’s annual arrival. Soon, the fire truck could be heard driving up to the center. Once it came to

a stop near the crowd, Santa was escorted off the truck and led into the center. There, he lent an ear to children and their Christmas wishes.

After divulging their wishes to Santa, children munched on homemade cookies.

Carolers herald the arrival of Santa at the community center

Santa greets Terry Hanover at the Friend of New Troy Community Center

Santa is welcomed to the FONT Community Center with firefighter Adrianna Burkhard

Santa greets his fans at the community center

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021 11

Santa returns in back to normal parade

BY STAN MADDUX

nlookers seemed delighted to welcome Santa Claus back to Michigan City in a back to normal parade in the downtown Saturday,

Dec. 4.

Last year, the units were stationary at Washington Park for people drive by and look at because of COVID-19 restrictions.

“It’s nice to get out again,” said Janet Justice.

The Michigan City woman came to enjoy quality time with family members including her grandchildren Braiyden , 11, Juniper, 4, and Clementine, 2.

Also tagging along was their pet dog, Zinny, a French Bulldog.

The 30-unit procession included cartoon characters, clowns, Mayor Duane Parry on foot waving to the goodsized crowd and Santa Claus riding on top of a fire truck.

A lot of children also gave hugs to Elmo, Clifford the Big Red Dog and other popular TV and movie figures like The Grinch walking the route.

Buddy the Elf was brought to the parade in the back of a Harbor Country Adventures truck, which rode behind him in the procession.

“Everybody is just enjoying him,” said Victor Tieri, owner of the company providing tour boats in Michigan City for people to ride on Lake Michigan

during the summer.

Nichole Ericson of Michigan City said the excitement in the face of her daughter, Skilynn, 3, is what she enjoyed most about the parade.

Her daughter’s face seemed to light up even more when she saw Santa Claus go by.

“She’s been counting down the days,” Ericson said.

Sarah Hasenfang made the trip from Chesterton with her husband, Michael, and their children, Maddy, 6, and Albert, 9.

Hasenfang said being amongst a crowd in the downtown decorated with Christmas lights is one reason they come to the parade every year.

They also enjoy watching the Festival of Lights at the lakefront come on for the season after the parade.

“We just love coming over here. We love a good parade, she said.

Mayor Parry wore a Santa Claus hat to go with his red sport coat, shirt and tie displaying images of Christmas Lights and Christmas trees.

“It’s the season to be jolly,” he said.

Parry also turned on the lights of a Christmas tree outside the public library where the parade ended.

The festivities later in the evening included a chili cook off and live music at the Michigan City Senior Center at Washington Park.

I’ve been knocked down a lot of times.— James Brown

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12 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021 13

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14 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

CLASSIFIED ADS Please submit your classified ad via email at classifieds@newbuffalotimes. com. New Buffalo Times can now accept online payments with a credit card or paypal. Go to our website, www.newbuffalotimes.com, and submit $14 per week for a classified ad of up to 160 characters. Deadline is Friday 5PM before the following week’s publication.

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A FUN INTERVIEW WITH WRHC’S JON GOLDMAN

BY LAWRENCE VON EBELER

on Goldman invited me to the new contrast, others were anxious to get on the home of WRHC in Sawyer, which band wagon! Bill points out that they are most is in the Chikaming Open Lands unusual as bands go. Collectively, they add up complex and has an exceptional to several hundred years. design (a vast improvement over Gene Halton, who plays the harmonica, their old address). recalled when the Newports did their debut The opportunity to witness his broadcast at the Acorn several years ago. I reviewed style - with members of the Newports in them, which was met with great accolades. attendance - was a coup!

He felt that the review Jon has what he calls inspired them to stick a “long form interview to it and continue as a and talk show” at WHRC, professional group. I as well as his podcast was very flattered. radio show, where he They are now playing gives his reviews and gigs all over the state interviews artists, who and the Chicago area, might be passing through featuring Mark Rongers his neck of the woods. on vocals who leaps Occasionally, he will get around the stage, lucky and have artists while singing, like a join him in the broadcast, “Jumpin’ Jack” and as was the case with the who – amazingly - never Newports’ participation misses a beat. for this interview.

In this session, Jon ome of the had nine members of arrangements the Newports, who have they play are: found their niche as the “Goin’ West” most elderly, talented

by Tom Waits, band performing almost “A Day in the Life” by anywhere! the Beatles, and “All Bill Bielby, the band’s Along the WatchTower”

by Bob Dylan. founder, is an author, Jon emits his intellect a university professor, and sense of humor and a musician. He throughout his show. conducted the search He too will find his way for his old high school Jon Goldman with all that he possesses buddies, who played in talent and smarts, instruments way back and if he doesn’t, he can when. He managed to continue with his practice with his law degree. convince a number of these oldsters into The Newports made a return engagement joining him to form the band from their old at the Acorn last month with their nine-piece Thornton High School in a musical ensemble band. They once again blew away the adoring from South Chicago. They re-named audience, who applauded them to four more themselves “The Newports.” encores!

Getting these men to jump onto the band They will no doubt be booked again. Don’t wagon was not necessarily easy. They’re miss it! married, retired, have grand kids, etc. By

S

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021 15

HOR0SCOPE DECEMBER 9-15, 2021

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

The vibe coming in this week will help you feel more empowered and ready to face challenges. This is the time to dust off the gloves and enter the ring with confidence and from a place of integrity. Don’t sell yourself short or fall prey to negativity. Be strong and tackle those erratic situations.

LEO JULY 23—AUGUST 22

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22—DECEMBER 21

The energy coming in this week will help you take control of your daily routines. Be aware that your efforts to change up beauty routines or go for a new style will not be in vain. This is the time to go through closets and get rid of worn out and ill-fitting cloths. Get some of that bling going again!

The energy coming in this week will help you see where to put your financial efforts and what to move away from.

There are some things that are obviously not going to work and now is the time to let them go. Focus in on what you know is a sure thing and let go of all the complications.

TAURUS APRIL 20—MAY 20

Transformation is happening on an intellectual level.

Don’t fight or resist changes. This is the time to get that higher education, start an adventure and review your philosophical or religious beliefs. It is important to be flexible and let rigid ideas flow with the variations life shows you now.

VIRGO AUGUST 23—SEPTEMBER 22

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22—JANUARY 19

Embrace romantic and creative adventures this week. Be true to your desires and let your deeper emotional side shine through now. This is the time to rekindle relationships and pull out those old art projects. Know that any irritabilities or high-strung emotions will be released now.

Drastic endings will be coupled with new beginnings this week. So let painful relationships or failed social attempts go. Embrace solitude as a chance to develop your own inner peace and strength. Know that your ability to attract the right partner or financial situation will come.

GEMINI MAY 21—JUNE 21

Sometimes we find ourselves with what appears to be the wrong partner or the wrong situation but, in all actuality, it is a reflection of patterns that we have set from early childhood. We lean towards what is familiar, which doesn’t always equal happiness. Transformations are at hand.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23—OCTOBER 22 The spotlight will be on your family dynamics for the next few weeks. Use it to its fullest by digging into family traditions and their origins. Perhaps, you can find the root of some your dissatisfactions or feelings of not being connected to home and family.

Go deeper into familial issues.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20—FEBRUARY 18

CANCER JUNE 22—JULY 22

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23—NOVEMBER 21

PISCES FEBRUARY 19—MARCH 20

Changes are afoot in the relationship department. No matter how painful or seemingly unexpected change can be, it is inevitable. Know that you will be blessed with tremendous strength and resilience now. So, face changes with confidence and embrace transformation. A new dawn awaits.

Dip your mind into the well of renewal. This is the time to let go of thought patterns that keep you stuck. Really investigate some of those rigid ideas you have and don’t feel glued to relationships out of social obligations. Open up to new information; new people and places will follow.

Another mixed bag for you this week.

Yes, there are some destructive energies at work this week but you will have an angel on your shoulder and lady luck in your back pocket. So, hit the road with gusto and keep your chin up. You will be in the right place and time to avoid the chaos.

Friends and acquaintances are a treasure trove of information and advancement now. Don’t shy away from conversations or interactions that seem beyond your level. This is the time to spread your wings and soar into new territory. If you’re looking for something, tell a someone.

I don’t mind “shade” life long, you do however. — Dino

www.newbuffalotimes.com

16 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

OBITUARIES Sherry Jane (Gilley) Bright

S

1957-2021

herry Jane (Gilley) Bright, age 64, of Niles, died peacefully Friday, December 3, 2021.

Her life began August 2, 1957 in LaPorte, Indiana to Billy and Jane Gilley.

She married Richard Bright, in Michigan City, Indiana.

Sherry was a compassionate and giving lady. She had a hard time saying “no” to anybody or anything.

She would take Peggy by her hand and run across the yard to Grandma and Grandpa’s home. She loved flowers, her favorite being red carnations. Sherry was a very loving mother, always taking good care of her three sons. She was a fighter, right up until the end.

Sherry will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Richard Bright of Niles; three sons, Jeff Snyder of LaPorte, Indiana, Matthew (April) Snyder of Niles, Michigan; Jon (Melanie) Snyder of LaPorte, Indiana; fifteen grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; two sisters, Peggy Harper of Niles, Michigan, Amanda (Dale) Woodward of Colorado Springs, Colorado; one brother, Terry Gilley of LaPorte, Indiana; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Mark Gilley.

Family and friends will gather from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 8, 2021 in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks.

Sherry will be laid to rest next to her beloved brother in Posey Chappel Cemetery, Three Oaks.

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

Judith Lynn (Hagen) Ross

J

1946-2021

udith Lynn (Hagen) Ross, age 74, of Three Oaks, died peacefully Sunday, November 28, 2021.

Her life began December 30, 1946, in Beloit, Wisconsin, the second of five children born to David and Celia Hagen. She married her soulmate, William “Bill” Lee Edward Ross December 29, 1974. After thirtynine years of marriage, he preceded her in death July 20, 2014.

Judy and Bill shared a love of antiques. They opened and ran Jenny’s Shop Antiques, for twenty-seven years in downtown Three Oaks. Her love of auctions was also strong, even having attended an auction on her pregnancy due date. She particularly enjoyed yard sales and would often joke that her car

knew to turn at every yard or garage sale sign.

Judy loved traveling as well.

She and Bill were excited to visit Hawaii twice. Later in life, she and Bill enjoyed spending their winters in Texas, dubbing themselves the “Michigan Winter Texans”. She spent her free time volunteering at the elementary school, the Harbor Country Food Pantry, the Flag Day Parade, and various other places.

Nothing brought her more joy than her grandchildren with whom she spent as much time as possible.

Judy will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by one daughter, Jennifer (Adam) Williams; stepchildren, Bill (Tina) Ross, Phil (Teresa) Ross, Greg Ross, Darci (Todd) Knapp, Pam Ross; one sister, Nanci (Nick) Deroni; one brother, Paul (Cathy) Hagen; fifteen grandchildren, Kayla, Sara (Benjamin), Leia, Anna, Kaitlyn, Benjamin, Missy, Josh, Mandi, Christie, Faith, James, Phil, Richard, Robin; eleven great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brother, Dave; sister, Gail; stepson, Jeff; and grandson, Troy.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Judy’s life at 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 11, 2021 in the Three Oaks United Methodist Church, 2 Sycamore Street East, Three Oaks.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Judy be made to Harbor Country Emergency Food Pantry, 301 North Elm Street, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128 or to Animal Lover’s Inc., 18805 South Schwark Road, 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.

SANTA’S FAVORITE STORYTELLER TO ENTERTAIN AT THE BARKER MANSION

S

anta can’t be everywhere during the busy holiday season, so he’s sending Jack.

Join Jack Olesker, Santa’s official storyteller, in the Barker Mansion Drawing Room from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Barker Mansion. Hear some of the greatest stories ever told about the North Pole. Guests can make a holiday craft and get a cookie in the newly renovated Thomas P. McCormick Room.

They are invited to bring a book donation for the Sandcastle Shelter.

“We’re thrilled to have Jack Olesker visiting the Mansion,” says Program & Events Coordinator Michele Gustin. “He has more than four decades in the entertainment industry as a studio executive, president of a motion picture and television studio, producer, director and writer, but he is--first and foremost--a storyteller.”

A bestselling author of novels of suspense, action, and adventure for adults, much of Jack’s work has also been for children’s entertainment.

Jack is the co-creator of the internationally successful Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and The New Adventure of He-man, and he has written many episodes for Hot Wheels, Super Mario Brothers, M.A.S.K., Heathcliff the Cat, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and other household-name children’s shows. Now, this holiday season, Jack brings his engaging storytelling skills to the Barker Mansion for a special Christmas appearance on behalf of Santa.

The Barker Mansion, located at 631 Washington Street in Michigan City, is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday (closed on Mondays, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve). Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time. Holiday admission is $15 for adults and $10 students/seniors/ veterans and children under the age of 5 are free. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www. barkermansion.org. Masks are required while in the Mansion.

The Mansion will close after the holiday season as renovations continue, with a reopening planned for May 2022 to accommodate a wide range of educational experiences as well as weddings and special events. — STAFF REPORTS

mwww.newbuffalotimes.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021 17

Financial literacy comes alive for students with Bison Credit Union

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BY FRANCESCA SAGALA

PUBLIC NOTICES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE VILLAGE OF GRAND BEACH 48200 PERKINS BLVD GRAND BEACH, MI 49117 (269) 469-3141

ow students at New prizes, New Buffalo Elementary School Buffalo Elementary School Principal Adam Bowen said. At the end won’t have to wait until of the year, a raffle will be held for an they’re grown-ups with a Apple iPad Mini. bank account to learn that Bowen said that Honor Credit Union January 19, 2022 a “penny saved is a penny earned.” approached him about opening the February 16, 2022 Students cut the ribbon on the credit union in the school nearly three March 16, 2022 the new Bison years ago.

April 20, 2022 Student Credit “The big thing is May 18, 2022 Union, which is a just trying to teach June 15, 2022 division of Honor kids about savings July 20, 2022 Credit Union, and financial August 17, 2022 September 21, 2022 the morning of literacy and why October 19, 2022 Monday, Nov. 29. it’s important,” he November 16, 2022 said.

Students lined up *December 14, 2022 The week to make their first before official deposits REGULAR MEETINGS WILL BE HELD Thanksgiving, Friday, Dec. 3.

ON THE THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE representatives School MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE Student bankers assist customers from Honor counselor Angela *DECEMBER MEETING with their first deposits Credit Union Robertson, who 7:00 P.M. EASTERN TIME gave a one-hour serves as the staff training session sponsor for the to the student bankers. The students, credit union, said that any student can INTEGRITY • EXPERIENCE • SUCCESS who all received identical blue Bison make a deposit. Students can start an Student Credit Union T-shirts, were account with as little as a $1 deposit. taught how to fill out a deposit slip and A group of six fifth grade bankers, deal with different scenarios in their with the help of representatives from CHICAGO, IL • NEW BUFFALO, MI new banking careers.

Honor Credit Union, then take their MARK A. LAROSE “The kids have to start off counting money and set up their accounts.

ATTORNEY AT LAW the cash box to make sure everything’s “So, you just open an account with MLAROSE@LAROSEBOSCOLAW.COM correct - after all the deposits are made, a dollar and every other Friday, you CONTACT US REAL ESTATE: Full Service Residential, Commercial, Easements, Beach Rights NEW BUFFALO can come in and bring cash, bring they have to match the slips with the 269-469-8440 checks and we’ll get them all set up,” cash box to make sure everything equals CHICAGO BUSINESS LAW: Corporations, Partnerships, LLCs, Sole Proprietorships 312-642-4414 Robertson, who said she works with out,” Robertson said.

TOLL FREE INJURY LAW: Serious Injuries, Wrongful Death, Accidents 877-500-1965 students on career exploration, said.

WWW.LAROSEBOSCOLAW.COM Students will be able to make deposits obertson said she

on Friday mornings, before school approached teachers in

30 N Whittaker St 30 N Whittaker St 30 N Whittaker St begins. Students must bring a form the fifth-grade classrooms,

Bar by night Deli by day Deli by day to the table of bankers, which is set asking which students are up in front of the Bison Afterschool mathematically inclined as Enrichment (BASE) office to make a well as which ones have good people deposit. Deposit slips are filled out by skills, as students will be dealing with the students and then carbon copied, so their fellow classmates when they that they and the bank both get a copy. make deposits.

Staff members are also welcomed to Student bankers were also asked to go make a deposit. through an application process.

Throughout the year, students will “They had a real job application that be entered into special prizes, so the they had to fill out and they had to talk more deposits they make, the better with their parents and bring it back,” Open 6 days Open 6 days Open Thursday-Monday O chance they have at winning different Robertson said. davidsdeliandcoffee.com davidsdeliandcoffee.com thefalsefrontbar.com

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18 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021 19

STEPPING UP ENFORCEMENT TO ADDRESS SPEEDRELATED FATALITIES

F

or more than a year, law enforcement agencies across the nation have reported an alarming rise in speeding and fatal crashes despite a decrease in the number of road miles traveled.

To combat this deadly and dangerous trend, The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office and more than 100 other municipal, county, and Michigan State Police law enforcement agencies will focus on speeding drivers between Dec. 1, 2021, and Feb. 28, 2022.

While Michigan has seen a 22 percent reduction in traffic crashes – 245,432 in 2020 compared to 314,377 in 2019 – there has been an increase in fatalities. Crash data from the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center indicates 1,083 individuals died from crashes on Michigan roads in 2020, a 10 percent increase over the 9856 deaths reported in 2019.

In 2020, there were 200 speedrelated fatalities on Michigan roadways compared to 185 in 2019, an 8 percent increase.

“Speed limit signs are not just a suggestion, and we must stop drivers who put themselves and others in danger with their risky behavior,” said Berrien County Sheriff L. Paul Bailey.

Motorists need to understand that the faster you drive, the greater your chances of being in a crash. We urge people to slow down, drive for the conditions and be safe on our roadways.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to result in a fatality than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph. Nationally in 2019, 9,478 traffic fatalities involved crashes in which one or more drivers were speeding.

This campaign is supported by federal traffic safety funds. — STAFF REPORTS

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