Niles Daily Star

SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2021 SERVING NILES, BUCHANAN AND EDWARDSBURG

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

HELPING THE HELPERS
Salvation Army receives
grant from Pokagon Fund P7

ON THE WAY TO SOLUTIONS

Evergreen Road special assessment
district created P5

TWO PAWS UP
Merritt Elementary students
taking steps to help animals P8

DEVELOPING STORY
Former teacher charged with crimes
Local restaurants, hospitality industry struggle following viral video at hotel P9

to find employees amid pandemic PRISON TIME

South Bend man sentenced for
using meth in Niles Township P9

DISTINGUISHED HONOR
Niles realtor recognized
as Realtor of the Year P11

OBITUARIES
Robert Baird Tim Hayden
Glydia Bowers Brenda Monroe
James Brady Effie Herrington
Phyllis Carlson Dorothy Leach
Alma Cox-Chadwick Patricia McCauslin
Dustin Clubb Kristina Monahon
Charles Davidson Paul Necomb
Joseph Davis Keith Rogers
Kusuma Ekanayake Daniel Sullivan
Nancy Harman P12-14 Co2 Plus set to expand P3 4/20 rolls on despite software challenges P4 Niles baseball, softball pick up wins P15
Page 2 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 FOCUS Niles Daily Star
Local restaurants, hospitality industry
struggle to find employees amid pandemic
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – Bold
letters sit in windows and on signs
at many restaurants in the south-
west Michigan area passing along
the message that another establish-
ment is looking for staff.
Inside are smaller staffs, who
are becoming more and more
tired as they try to keep businesses
running.
Wynter Dulemba, manager of
The Nuggett Downtown Grill, 202
E. Main St., Niles, has been keep-
ing the restaurant running with
its reduced staff size. A large “now
hiring” sign is visible from the road
to passers-by, but Dulemba said the
applications she does receive from
potential job seekers are not viable.
“We get applications that have
nine [digit] phone numbers,”
Dulemba said. “I don’t have com-
pleted applications with ways of
getting a hold of people.”
Dulemba said people will come
in and fill out an application and
not show up to interviews. Some-
times, they will work for a week and
then leave without another word.
One former staff member never re-
turned from a lunch break.
“I’ve never seen it like this, hon-
estly,” she said. “We’ve just got peo-
ple who don’t want to work, or are
collecting unemployment, or are
too scared to come back to work
because of COVID-19.”
Staff members who have stayed
with the restaurant work more
shifts and have stepped into mul-
tiple positions. Servers might work
one shift serving and one in the
kitchen in the same day. Dulemba
herself regularly has a large section
of tables, works the bar, handles to-
go orders and answers the phones.
She is grateful for the team that
does keep the restaurant functioning.
“I hope that my customers are
kind to the ones who did show up,”
she said. “I have people who just
won’t show up or call.”
Across town, Wegner’s Lakeside
Bar and Grill, 2628 Lake Shore
Drive, Niles, was recently in need of
staff members.
“We feel fortunate to have been
able to find staff,” said owner Ra-
chel Wegner. “It has been a struggle
for a while. Unemployment has cre-
ated a situation for people to rely on
and not have to work.”
Wegner echoed Dulemba’s senti-
ments about job seekers filling out
applications, but failing to show up
for interviews.
“It’s unfortunate that we can’t re-
Cameron Downey, owner of Cameron’s in Buchanan, Taylor Pres-
tidge, owner of Soulard’s in Coloma, and Mazi Heppler of Lana’s
Boutique in St. Joseph, were three panelists at an event hosted at
Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren Headquarters in Benton
Harbor on Thursday. They spoke about the challenges each busi-
ness is encountering in hiring workers. (Leader photo/CHRISTINA
CLARK)
port back on the people that do ap-
ply but don’t really plan on working,”
Wegner said. “I know so many busi-
nesses right now that are struggling
to hire and have to close certain
days or hours due to lack of staff.”
Thursday, local groups and agen-
cies met to help find a solution to
the problem.
Kinexus Group, Southwest Mich-
igan Regional Chamber, South-
western Michigan Tourist Council
and the Cornerstone Alliance host-
ed a panel called “Business Speaks:
Time to get back to work safely”
at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass,
Van Buren Headquarters in Ben-
ton Harbor. The panel had Berrien
County small to medium business
owners from retail, hospitality,
restaurant and manufacturing in-
dustries present.
Mary Morphey, manager of cor-
porate communications with Ki-
nexus Group, quoted the group’s
data analysis interpreting numbers
from the Opportunity Insights Eco-
nomic Tracker.
According to the data analysis, in
February, when restrictions on in-
door dining were lifted in Michigan,
about 30 percent of small business-
es remained closed. The number for
Cass, Van Buren and Berrien coun-
ties cumulatively showed about 800
businesses closed, with 410 being in
Berrien County alone. The data set
defined a small business as having
100 employees or fewer.
Arthur Havlicek, president and
chief executive officer of the South-
west Michigan Regional Chamber,
said there was “nothing fundamen-
tally wrong” with the jobs market
place.
“The reason it is effecting so
many different employees across
a diverse set of industries is be-
cause it is a macro policy problem,”
Havlicek said.
He said the combination of feder-
al pandemic unemployment, state
benefits, relaxed requirements to
seek work have made a difficult sit-
uation for businesses.
“These employers have to com-
pete with the unemployment agen-
cy for talent,” Havlicek said. “That is
not a competition they can win.”
Signing bonuses, relocation bo-
nuses, housing and other perks
seemed to have mixed results for
the panelists who voiced they had
worked to make their positions
more lucrative.
“In my opinion, short staffing is a
pandemic we are seeing,” said Brady
Cohen, general manager of the Inn
at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph.
With a reduced, core staff keep-
ing the Inn at Harbor Shores run-
ning, Cohen said workers had been
picking up more duties. His chef
is working 80-hour weeks. Cohen
himself has jumped behind the bar
to keep drinks flowing.
Elizabeth Hacker, director of
sales for the Inn at Harbor Shores,
spoke about taking on multiple
roles throughout the day, especial-
ly during events. With couples who
postponed weddings in 2020, she’s
worried about what it means for
the coming warmer months.
“We want to give them the expe-
rience that they want,” Hacker said.
“I’m mopping the floor at midnight
and coming in the next day to an-
swer emails from all the clients that
I missed because I was busy doing
the event. It’s been very difficult.”
At the meeting, Cameron
Downey, owner of Cameron’s
restaurant, 1021 W. Front St., Bu-
chanan, spoke about his restau-
rant’s struggles.
“I think I’m in a unique situation
where I’m about five miles from the
state line with Indiana,” Downey
said. “What we’ve found is that
when we had opened up for car-
ry-out, Indiana was open, and peo-
ple would go down there.”
The closures to indoor dining be-
tween Thanksgiving and Christmas
were the toughest, Downey said.
“My thought is paying people
to sit at home on the couch is not
helping us up here at all,” Downey
said. “We have to find a way to get
our politicians all the way in Wash-
ington to find a way to pay the peo-
ple to come to work rather than pay
them to sit at home.”
Al Pscholka, vice president of
public relations and government
affairs with Kinexus Group, sug-
gested it may be better to look at
labor market numbers as opposed
to unemployment rates. He said the
labor market shrinking, becoming
older and having less educated per-
sons in it would not help the econ-
omy grow.
“When the state publishes the
unemployment rate, that’s not re-
ally the greatest marker to go by,”
Pscholka said.
He said one way to stimulate the
workforce again would be to end
added unemployment benefits.
“President Obama ended extend-
ed unemployment benefits at the
end of 2008/2009, when we were
coming out of the financial crisis.
That’s when we started to see the
uptick in the economy,” Pscholka
said.
Niles Daily Star BUSINESS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 3
Co2 Plus set to expand
Niles gas suppliers grow
to fill industry needs
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES – As a new member of the Niles
Chamber of Commerce, Mat Burnham is busy
preparing for his business’ ribbon cutting cere-
mony in May.
Burnham owns Co2 Plus, 410 Fort St., Niles.
The business celebrated its second anniversary
in March, but Burnham and manager, TJ Gra-
nacki, are looking forward as their business
continues to expand.
The business started two years ago to supply,
or carbon dioxide, as the need grew along with
local industries.
“Everybody started growing medical mar-
ijuana and needed CO2,” Burnham said.
“Restaurants needed it, and I got familiar with
them. People were in dire need of it. [Tee busi-
ness] started there, and then people started
reaching out to us for welding gases, then beer
gas.”
Burnham said after beginning to supply
medical marijuana growers, word of mouth
referrals started making contact and the re-
quests for other products kept them learning
about the products.
From originally supplying carbon dioxide,
the “plus” now includes welding gases for auto-
motive shops, food grade gases for beverages,
helium for floral shops, medical oxygen for area
veterinarians, dentists and senior centers, pro-
pane and butane. The company’s tagline is that
they are “the good gas guys.”
“It kept going. It hasn’t stopped,” Burnham
said of the orders the company continues to fill.
“We try to supply the community with any-
thing to get their job done,” Granacki said.
Burnham originally moved to the Niles area
from Michigan City, Indiana, about eight years
ago with the intentions of getting into flipping
properties. Granacki joined Burnham in the
business before he graduated high school, put-
ting in hours after school let out.
Recently, Co2 Plus hired a third person,
Mickie Hunt, to help them keep on top of pa-
perwork and communications.
The building CO2 Plus inhabits has multiple
garage doors and entrances.
“We started renting parts of the building out
in the beginning. Then we ended up buying the
whole thing,” Burnham said.
Today, the entrance for CO2 Plus is in the
first third of the lot as customers enter the lot.
There is a sign with an arrow indicating the
door to get to the office for service.
Just beyond the retail space, one can see ken-
nel space outside as well. The kennels are a part
of Burnham and Granacki’s next venture: Burn-
ham Bully Farms.
“They’re American bullies, not pit bulls,”
Burnham said, of the dogs on the property. “Pit
bulls are good too, but these are American bull-
dogs.”
Burnham and Granacki are putting in work
to learn about breeding the dogs, and finding
dogs with the disposition they admire.
“We want the lovers, and the ones who will
still guard the home when you’re at work,”
Burnham said. “But the ones that also let any-
one you want in. Dogs can sense that.”
He said the dogs are just another passion of
he and Granacki.
When the two are not making deliveries of
product to customers once a week, getting or-
ders fulfilled for pickup, or taking care of the
American bulldogs, they both have automo-
bile and motorcycle hobbies they like to talk to
their customer about as well.
“I fell in love with Niles,” Burnham said.
He said he still lives in a home he remodeled
and intended to flip.
More information about Co2 Plus can be
found at its website, Co2Plus.business.site, or
by calling (269) 683-4844.
 4 20
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Page 4 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 BUSINESS Niles Daily Star
ROLLS ON
Provisioning centers celebrate cannabis holiday, overcome software snags
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN –
The day almost seemed to go up
in smoke for some area cannabis
provisioning centers in Buchan-
an and Niles, while others cele-
brated 4/20 as business rolled on
as usual.
Businesses who relied on Flow-
hub, a cannabis point of sale sys-
tem, found themselves pausing
sales on one of the biggest days of
the year. Others, who use a differ-
ent software, were able to contin-
ue cash sales of green product.
Cannabis and cannabis use is
commonly celebrated across the
U.S. on April 20, or 4/20.
Celebrating cannabis
Despite the cold temperatures
and wet snow throughout the day
Tuesday, patients and customers
rolled in to provisioning centers
in Buchanan and Niles.
Jared Vail, of Wisconsin, was
in Buchanan visiting family and
braved the weather to wait out-
side of Zen Leaf, 259 E. Front St.,
Buchanan.
“This is 4/20, it’s like the best
day of the year,” Vail said. “This is
like Christmas, and it’s snowing.”
Vail said he liked the variety of
places Buchanan had to offer.
“It’s a nice town, and there’s five
places to go,” he said.
Vail’s wait was about 10 min-
utes on the sidewalk to go inside
Zen Leaf. A representative from
Zen Leaf declined an interview,
stating the center was too busy
with increased sales.
It was a sentiment likely felt by
many area provisioning centers in
Niles and Buchanan.
Down the block, at Cannavista
Wellness, 120 E. Front St., Buchan-
an, the staff was busy getting cus-
tomers checked-in and into the
provisioning center’s retail space.
Freddie Miller, known for his
appearances on Jimmy Kimmel
Live, was keeping energy light and
lines moving while working the
front of the Cannavista Wellness’s
storefront.
He said the key to them keeping
the lines moving was an unspoken
communication system between
everyone in the shop.
Miller greeted customers, some
of them in the shop for their first
time, with a familiar “hey, buddy,
how’s it going?”
The energy and ease seemed to
make them more comfortable as
they waited to be admitted into
the purchasing area.
Miller said the shop had been
continuously busy since he ar-
rived. At the counter, Miller
had a stack of photographs avail-
able for a donation of $5 a piece.
He was using the donations to
raise money for Redbud Area
Ministries and the Last Prisoner
Project with Cannavista Wellness’
fundraisers.
Around back in the parking lot,
Tim Carrigan, owner and chef at
Wood, Stock and Grill, had one of
the signature Volkswagen Beetle
grills under a tent ready to serve
up food for those who had made
purchases in Cannavista Well-
ness. Carrigan said Wood, Stock
and Grill had VW grills stationed
at Green Stem Provisioning Cen-
ter, 1140 S. 11th St., Niles, and an-
other at High Profile, 804 E. Front
St., Buchanan.
“[Business] has been pretty
steady. It comes in waves,” Carri-
gan said. “People have been going
inside [the provisioning centers]
first and then getting some food
afterward.”
Rolling with it
Down the street at Pinnacle
Emporium, 221 E. Front St., Bu-
chanan, owner Michael Silver
said getting ready for the busy
week was reminiscent of a Christ-
mas-like atmosphere, as staff pre-
pared for 4/20.
The company’s payment plat-
form had connectivity issues
throughout the day, which slowed
admittance to the center and
sales down.
“Obviously, on a day like today
it’s decidedly inconvenient,” Silver
said. “We are working through
it, though. Sales have been great.
Support from the community has
been great. People were out first
thing.”
Silver said the provisioning cen-
ter’s staff had been working late
into the night before to prepare
for 4/20 crowds. Even with the
challenges, Silver said everyone
had “high energy” and customers
had been understanding, overall.
The ReLeaf Center, 1840 Termi-
nal Road, Niles, and Green Stem
Provisioning, 1140 S. 11th St.,
Niles, were both impacted by the
same software challenge.
“There were about four and a
half hours we couldn’t connect
to the state. If you can’t go to the
state and report, you can’t be
open,” said George Lynch, owner
of Green Stem Provisioning. “It’s
been a disaster.”
Lynch said the center had to
turn around 200 people away
throughout the day while he and
the staff waited for the system to
reconnect properly to Michigan
MRA.
Lynch said the issue happened
across the country, not just in
Michigan.
He said the provisioning center
had planned specials for the day,
and would likely extend them to
Wednesday as staff had to turn so
many customers away.
“I stuck with paying people, and
keeping the community going,”
Lynch said, as he chose to have
staff stay at the center, uncertain
as to when the point of sale soft-
ware would reconnect.
Across Niles, at The ReLeaf Cen-
ter, manager George Pittenturf
said their center also experienced
the software glitch on Tuesday.
“We had to take some time to
start to get back up and running,”
Pittenturf said.
Just before 5 p.m., Pittenturf
said the center had a line of cus-
tomers out the door and cars
were still wrapped around the
building for the curbside service.
“We’re relentless and not giving
up,” he said.
The software issue was just
another bump in the road for
dispensaries that opened last
year prior to the arrival of the
COVID-19 pandemic, which ef-
fectively shut down traditional
4/20 sales.
“Last year, we couldn’t have
anybody in the lobby. We’re still
adapting to it,” Pittenturf said.
“This year’s a little off. We want-
ed to do more than we could. We
had a snow storm. But we have
a really good staff, which goes
far beyond the dispensary to our
grow operation.”
Niles Daily Star LOCAL GOVERNMENT Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 5
Evergreen Road special
assessment district created
Niles Charter Township
Fire Department one step
closer to having fire chief
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES TOWNSHIP – Seven households
were impacted at the Monday evening Niles
Charter Township meeting when Evergreen
Road received its special assessment district
for road improvement.
A majority of the roads in Niles Charter
Township fall under the Berrien County and
state purview, according to Niles Charter
Township board members. Neighborhood
road repair requests have come to the board
members, with solutions to pay for them
split between the township and the residents
most impacted by the improvement.
Prior to the regular meeting, a public
hearing was hosted by the Niles Charter
Township board of trustees to hear thoughts
from the residents on Evergreen Road who
had sought to have the road improved. The
road’s current conditions make for a bumpy
drive to those who use it.
Residents in attendance of the public
hearing leaned in favor of a crush and re-
place asphalt solution, as opposed to a dou-
ble chip seal and preparation fix. However,
final numbers on the cost were not available
at the time of the meeting.
Residents Erna Burge and Johnny Hunt
expressed concern over the cost residents
of the road were being asked to shoulder for
the repairs, including the legal publishing
costs being rolled into estimates.
“Whatever it takes to become a legal enti-
ty, [similar to] the engineering fees, the legal-
ity part to make it its own entity so we can
legally collect [payment], it’s all part of the
district being requested by the homeown-
ers,” said Treasurer Jim Ringler. “It’s always
been that way.”
A unanimous vote was taken by the trust-
ees to approve the district. Homeowners will
see an annual bill to pay fees for the roads,
with a 3.5 percent interest rate.
Township Clerk Terry Eull estimated the
annual cost for the road repairs could be
around $575 to be paid for 10 years.
Monday evening, the Niles Charter Town-
ship board of trustees hosted a public
hearing for the creation of the Evergreen
Road special assessment district. (Leader
photo/CHRISTINA CLARK)
A resident from on Bicknell Road, anoth-
er road in the township where homeowners
have voiced concerns for the condition of
the road, was in attendance to the meeting.
Supervisor Jim Stover said everyone who
was involved directly on the street would
need to be involved with the decision, in the
same process as to how the Evergreen Road
decision was made on Monday evening.
“I’ll send out the invitation to see what
[residents] want to do,” Stover said. “Do you
want to do gravel, prime and double seal, or
do you want to put down asphalt? It’s all very
similar to what we just did.”
During the meeting it was announced
that Niles Charter Township Fire Depart-
ment acting chief Tim Jesswein and the Niles
Charter Township had worked out a memo
of understanding for the fire chief position.
“There are certain parts he carries over
from the [ firefighter’s] union,” Ringler said.
“He gets a fireman’s pension from the union,
as long as he’s fire chief, he gets that and he
contributes to it.”
Jesswein will be on probation for his first
year as fire chief for the township depart-
ment, after which he will get a one-time
raise and then be subject to the percentage
raises township employees receive annually.
The board of trustees voted to accept the
document. Jesswein will advance from act-
ing fire chief to full time fire chief after his
replacement has been hired for the Niles
Charter Township department. On Monday
evening, trustees voted to offer the fulltime
firefighter position to an internal applicant,
on the understanding they pass all of the re-
quired tests.
Later during the meeting, tree removal
was approved at Fireman’s Park, near the
pickleball court, and at Samson Park.
Page 6 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 LOCAL GOVERNMENT Niles Daily Star
County Revenue Sharing Funds
shorted in Berrien County
Commissioners sign resolution asking state to restore local share
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
BERRIEN COUNTY – Berrien Coun-
ty Commissioners passed a resolution
Thursday morning to communicate to
state of Michigan leaders their will to re-
store county revenue sharing funds and to
provide a one-time payment of a cumula-
tive shortfall to the county.
Broadband plans for underserved areas
of Berrien County that are moving forward
with one internet company were also pre-
sented to the commissioners on Thursday.
The first resolution passed with 11 votes
on Thursday, with Robert Harrison absent
from the vote.
“The Michigan Association of Counties
is encouraging county leadership across
the state to put forth some type of reso-
lution to ask the state of Michigan to not
forget that as these stimulus dollars pass
through Lansing’s coffers, to not forget
that counties have lost out on a significant
amount of revenue sharing,” said Berrien
County Administrator Brian Dissette. “It
would be very appropriate to reimburse
those counties for lost dollars.”
The resolution passed stated the Mich-
igan Association of Counties had done
“extensive research into county revenue
sharing has had on county allocations.”
The resolution stated that “the state of
Michigan had shorted 60 counties more
than $110 million between 2009 and 2014.”
Of that, Berrien County requested its
shortfall of more than $1,590,000 be reim-
bursed.
The departments impacted by coun-
ty revenue sharing include the Berrien
County courts, prosecutor, sheriff and
county jail, county clerk, treasurer, regis-
ter of deeds, drain commissioner, admin-
istration and animal control.
Prior to the consent agenda vote, com-
missioners had a presentation from Mer-
cury Broadband about initiatives in the
Berrien County area.
Matthew Sams, chief of staff with Mer-
cury Broadband, gave a presentation be-
fore the consent agenda was addressed by
the commissioners.
“Both Mercury Broadband and Midwest
Energy have gone after Federal Commu-
nications Commission funds, and have
been awarded funds for Berrien Coun-
ty,” Dissette said. “They’re going to have
broad coverage for all over Berrien Coun-
ty, but [Mercury Broadband] was award-
ed funds in separate areas of the county
[ from Midwest Energy].”
Sams said Mercury Broadband is cur-
rently working on multiple objectives
within Berrien County. One is to provide
a minimum of 25 megabits per second
download speed and three megabits up-
load speeds, what the FCC deems as a
minimum to be labeled broadband, to get
underserved portions of the county con-
nected to the internet. This will be done
in conjunction with an FCC initiative pro-
gram.
The minimum for broadband connec-
tivity is 25 MBPS upload by 3 MBPS down-
load, but Sams said Mercury Broadband
is aiming to deploy 100 MBPS download
and 20 MBPS upload speeds in many lo-
cations.
“From the FCC’s perspective, [that will
be] supporting roughly 697 locations that
they determined were underserved based
on reporting done annually to the FCC,”
Sams said. “Those are set to begin in quar-
ter three [of 2021]. We are already mobiliz-
ing our equipment and staff and executing
lease agreements.”
While some parts of the county will see
faster connectivity through the first phase
of the initiative, which Sams said is set to
go live around September. The bulk of the
connectivity infrastructure will be execut-
ed in quarters two and three of 2022.
Another grant Mercury Broadband ap-
plied for was the Connecting Michigan
Communities.
“Those grants funded location at rough-
ly 635 homes that are not part of the Con-
nect America Phase 2 initiatives, that were
deemed underserved or unserved with
no access to adequate broadband,” Sams
said.
Sams had service maps to show com-
missioners where some of these internet
services would be delivered. Small pockets
of areas to be served with Mercury Broad-
band’s services sat between Niles and Bu-
chanan, north of Niles and closer to Lake
Michigan.
 Niles Daily Star GIVING Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 7

s
Helping the helpers
Salvation Army receives
grant from The Pokagon
Fund for emergency
financial assistance
By MAXWELL HARDEN
max.harden@leaderpub.com
NILES — Thanks to a recently
awarded grant, one area nonprofit
is taking steps to help community
members keep their homes.
The Salvation Army in Niles recent-
ly received a grant for $10,000 from
The Pokagon Fund to assist house-
holds in Dowagiac that are facing
eviction due to financial hardship.
The funds will support the Salva-
tion Army’s Rental and Mortgage As-
sistance Program. Those who qualify
can receive financial assistance to-
wards one month of rent or mortgage
payment.
“Grants like this are incredibly
helpful,” said Salvation Army of Niles
Lieutenant Kendra Hixenbaugh. “We
have been able to help so many fam-
ilies pay for rent and utilities more
than we were able to before. With
these funds, we are able to help peo-
ple pay rent that’s behind a couple
of months. We’re able to take some
of that edge off for them, and we’re
only able to do that because of gen-
erous donors and grants. We are very
thankful.”
Founded in 2007, The Pokagon
Fund is a nonprofit private foun-
dation supported by revenue from
The Four Winds Casinos, which are
owned and operated by the Pokagon
Band of Potawatomi Indians.
According to its website, the fund’s
mission is to enhance the lives of
the residents of southwest Michigan
through the financial support of ini-
tiatives in education, poverty reduc-
tion and community vitality.
Hixenbaugh and her husband,
Joseph — also a lieutenant — have
served as the Corps Officers in Niles
since June 2017. According to Hixen-
baugh, the grant came about thanks
to the efforts of Development Coordi-
nator Jim Cramer.
“He joined our team in late No-
vember,” she said. “They had been
reaching out to foundations, and The
Pokagon Fund was willing to help.”
“We want to help prevent the over-
whelming impact an eviction can
have on families,” Cramer said in a
press release. “Dowagiac is a commu-
nity that we want to be able to serve
more efficiently. The grant from Po-
kagon Fund will allow us to assist 15
to 20 households and, hopefully, find
out what other needs can be met to
prevent this hardship in the future.
We are very grateful to the Poka-
gon Fund for seeing the value in our
efforts.”
The ongoing COVID-19 pandem-
ic has impacted the efforts of many
nonprofits, but Hixenbaugh said the
pandemic has not impacted its social
services.
“We have been blessed,” she said.
“We closed our doors so we weren’t
in physical contact with everyone.
We were able to keep our food pantry
by bringing goods outside the door to
Salvation Army of Niles Lieutenant Kendra Hixenbaugh operates
the Niles location with her husband, Lieutenant Joseph Hixen-
baugh. (Leader photo/MAXWELL HARDEN)
those in need.” school a red backpack filled with
The Salvation Army still offers breakfast, lunch and dinner com-
programs including its Feed- ponents for Saturday and Sunday.
ing His Sheep, a backpack out- “One-hundred-forty-five kids
reach program aiming to provide have signed up so far,” she said.
balanced, nutritional meals to “We need volunteers to pack and
school children in Berrien and deliver bags to the schools for the
Cass counties over the weekends. counselors to distribute.”
Children are selected to par- Individuals in need of assis-
ticipate in the program by coun- tance can contact the Salvation
selors at the school they attend, Army at (269) 684-2660 or on-
with parental participation and line at SANiles.org. An applica-
consent required. Each week, the tion process is required for all
participating children receive at inquiries.

Organization hosts virtual 5K for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

DASAS works year-round to address
survivors’ needs, raise awareness
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – In the U.S., sex-
ual violence impacts more than 40 percent of
women in their lifetime, according to the Cen-
ters for Disease Control and Prevention. In the
same data brief from the CDC, nearly a quarter
of men will experience a form of sexual violence
in their lifetime.
Statistics like these bring the need to raise
awareness of sexual violence year-round,
but especially through the month of April,
to local organization Domestic and Sexual
Abuse Services.
“I think it’s important to take a stand against
sexual assault and victim blaming,” said Krista
DeBoer, executive director of DASAS. “These
things need to change if we are going to make
a difference.”
DeBoer is working throughout April to raise
awareness for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
with the organization she leads. A virtual 5K,
including further messaging and awareness of
resources DASAS provides to southwest Mich-
igan, is a part of that campaign.
DASAS services southwest Michigan in Cass,
St. Joseph and Van Buren counties to bring
awareness to the sometimes-alarming statistics
about sexual assault, and to empower survivors
with information, resources and advocacy in
the area.
The sixth annual “Survivor Stomp” 5K is one
of the ways the organization is fundraising and
raising awareness to the nature of sexual assault
across the nation and locally.
“People can run or walk, whenever they
want, anytime between now and April 30,” De-
Boer said. “If they register, they will get a T-shirt,
medal and swag bag.”
According to the DASAS website, those wish-
ing to participate can register, pay a $25 regis-
tration fee, and then “run, walk or crawl” the
distance on a course they feel comfortable on
or on a treadmill. The event will use the “honor
system” for timing, and organizers will publish
completion times if they are submitted to the
organization.
DeBoer said this is the second year the event
has been virtual due to COVID-19 precautions
and gathering mandates.
“We are hoping to be able to do more of our
events in person when it is safe,” she said.
Throughout April for Sexual Assault Aware-
ness Month, DeBoer said DASAS has been put-
ting messaging online through its social media
and on its website to shine a light on the topic it
works on throughout the year.
DeBoer is concerned about what she sees as
“rape culture” becoming more insidious. She
mentioned high profile politicians being inves-
tigated for human trafficking, a viral TikTok vid-
eo about “National Rape Day,” and Larry Nas-
sar’s involvement with USA Gymnastics, from
which he was convicted of rape as the former
USA Gymnastics team doctor.
DeBoer said that while many tend to think
of these types of high-profile cases when terms
like “sexual assault” are brought up, it is often
times much closer to home.
According to the nonprofit Rape, Abuse
and Incest National Network, eight out of 10
rapes are committed by someone known to
the survivor.
“In general, people don’t always know how
to respond. People don’t always know how to
be supportive. It’s not something we really talk
about,” DeBoer said. “I think there’s something
to be said when a survivor comes and discloses
that they have been sexually assaulted – I think
it’s powerful to say, ‘I believe you. I’m here with
you,’ and asking what they need.”
More information about the Survivor Stomp
and DASAS’ services can be found at DASASMi.
org. The website prominently features an “es-
cape now” button for those who may not be in
a safe environment to access the information.
The latest episodes of DASAS’ podcast, “I’m Not
in an Abusive Relationship,” are also available
on the website.
For those seeking immediate assistance, a 24-
hour hotline is available at 1(800) 828-2023.
Page 8 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 EDUCATION Niles Daily Star
Two paws up
Niles second grader inspired to help local animals
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES – The students at one Niles
elementary school are taking action
to help animals in need across Ber-
rien and Cass counties.
Merritt Elementary School cur-
rently is accepting donations of
pet supplies, cleaning supplies, and
monetary donations to benefit the
Humane Society – Southwestern
Michigan Yeager Family Pet Shel-
ter, at 5400 S. Niles Road in St. Jo-
seph, and the Cass County Animal
Control, located at 323 M-62 in
Cassopolis.
Evelyn Ulrich, a second-grader at
Merritt Elementary School in Niles,
was inspired to organize the drive
after she read a story in class with
her teacher, Kelsey Grim.
“We read a story about a petition
at school,” Ulrich said.
Ulrich said the story focused on
children who wanted a local park
to stay open, so that they would not
have to play in the streets after it
closed. Some of the lessons includ-
ed how to make a petition and work
with local government and how to
talk with members of the communi-
ty about one’s concerns.
Ulrich wanted to find a way
to help endangered animals, but
learned of different ways to make a
difference right at home.
“My mom and dad said it has to
be something you want, like to help
keep parks open later or to build a
building. People already save endan-
gered animals,” Ulrich said. “That
gave me ideas that we could donate
or make donations. I really like ani-
mals, especially cats. How about we
do donations to the humane soci-
ety?”
Ulrich called the humane society
and animal control with her parents
and learned about some of the orga-
nizations’ needs. In addition to food,
cleaning supplies and blankets, she
learned about another unique need
one of the shelters expressed want-
ing: bird feeders.
“When the cats are bored inside,
they thought they could look out the
window [at the birds],” Ulrich said.
From there, Ulrich and Grim got
more of the school involved.
“We walked with Mr. [Matt] Sev-
erin, and he set it up so we could
work with the whole school and ac-
cept donations,” Grim said. “We can
make a bigger impact and help more
animals.”
Grim’s class decorated the do-
nation box that sits in front of the
school office with drawings of ani-
mals. Ulrich and Grim added a few
photographs of animals currently
living at the two organizations so
that those donating could see the
pets that the supplies and money
would be going to help.
“I see when kids get passionate
about something, and I want to sup-
port it,” Severin said.
When Grim brought the idea to
the office, Severin was excited to
give Ulrich and her classmates a
boost to get the rest of the school
involved.
The drive will be ongoing through
April 30.
Wish list items from Humane
Society of Southwestern Michigan’s
Yeager Family Pet Shelter and the
Cass County Animal Control in-
clude: wet and dry dog food, wet
and dry cat food, kitty litter, dog
and cat toys, dog and cat treats,
small blankets, towels, general
cleaning supplies, small animal
food and small bird feeders. Mon-
etary donations for the drive can Merritt Elementary School second grader Evelyn Ulrich holds up the flier she helped make to raise
also be made out to Brandywine awareness for the school pet supplies drive. Ulrich was inspired to help animals after learning area
Community Schools. shelters were in need of basic supplies like pet food and kitty litter. (Leader photo/CHRISTINA CLARK)
 Niles Daily Star CRIMES & COURTS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 9

South Bend man sentenced for

meth possession in Niles Township
By DEBRA HAIGHT and take advantage of treatment. It’s In other sentencings, an area res-
Leader Publications Contributor his own choice.” ident with pending assault charges
James Matthew Sanders, 58, was sentenced to jail.
NILES — Prison sentences were pleaded guilty to resisting and ob- Aaron Andrew Smith, 40, of Ber-
handed down to two area residents structing police as a habitual offend- rien Street in Eau Claire, pleaded
in Berrien County Trial er and was sentenced to guilty to fleeing and eluding police

Former teacher charged with

Court Monday. 14 months to 4 years in and was sentenced to 120 days in jail
Neil Courtney prison and $198 in fines with credit for six days served. He
Bennett, 49, of South and costs. He has cred- must pay $758 in fines and costs.
Bend, pleaded guilty
to possession of meth-
it for no time served as
he was on parole at the
The incident occurred Oct. 26,
2020, in Berrien Springs. Smith has
crimes following viral video
amphetamine and was time of the incident. two pending felonious assault cases STAFF REPORT tity was later confirmed by
sentenced to 14 months The 14-month prison that occurred after this incident. Brandywine community mem-
to 10 years in prison. He term will be consecu- Briseno noted that Smith had had NILES — A former Brandy- bers and former students.
has credit for 55 days al- tive to any parole viola- a rocky juvenile and young adult pe- wine teacher has been charged According to the Berrien
ready served and must tion sentence. riod but had had no criminal activity with multiple crimes, Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office, the
pay $198 in fines and The incident oc- from 2004 to 2018. County Prosecuting Attorney charge of accosting a minor for
costs. curred Nov. 6, 2020, in Judge Schrock noted Smith’s two Steven Pierangeli said Wednes- immoral purposes is a four-
The incident oc- Neil Courtney Niles. He was released pending cases in fashioning his sen- day. year felony, and the use of com-
curred Feb. 24 on Bennett from prison in October tence. Patrick Stier, 44, of Niles, has puter to commit a felony charge
Niles-Buchanan Road 2016 and his parole was “I also have to consider the tradi- been charged with accosting is a seven-year felony.
in Niles Township. scheduled to be up Dec. tional resources and efficacies we a minor for immoral purposes No court dates have been
Defense attorney 9, 2021. He received a have, I wonder if there is any utility and using a computer to com- scheduled at this time, accord-
Carri Briseno noted two-year prison term in imposing a probation sentence mit a felony. ing to Pierangeli’s office. The
that Bennett had been in 2014 for resisting when he faces serious charges,” he The charges are punishable prosecuting attorney’s office
working in the year pri- and obstructing po- said. with four or more years in pris- stated the charges are merely
or to the February inci- lice, a 14-month prison Also Monday: on, but less than 10 years in accusations, and the defendant
dent but had suffered sentence in 2012 for re- • Ryan Cole Banter, 30, of 13th prison, for actions that took is presumed innocent until and
the loss of a number of sisting and obstructing Street in Niles, pleaded guilty to place on April 2. unless proven guilty.
relatives. police. In addition, he possession of a loaded firearm in a The charges relate to allega- Stier previously resigned
“He went through a had three other prison motor vehicle and was sentenced to tions of Stier contacting what from his position Monday af-
period of grieving, and sentences previously. credit for one day served and $2,198 he believed to be a 14-year-old ter being placed on adminis-
he didn’t handle it well,” James Matthew Briseno said Sand- in fines and costs. His weapon was female through the Kik phone trative leave April 11. Though
she said. “He began Sanders ers had had no police forfeited. The incident occurred Dec. application and text messaging. Superintendent Karen Weimer
drinking again, and it contact for a number 17, 2020, in Niles. The allegations further indicate declined to comment on Stier’s
led to other poor deci- of years, was working • A 20-year-old woman, of Law- the content of the communica- charges, she addressed his res-
sions.” and had appeared to be ton, Michigan, pleaded guilty to em- tions were sexual in nature. ignation in a letter sent to par-
While Briseno and doing well before the bezzlement over $1,000 and under The charges came after a ents and community members
Bennett said he had incident. She asked for $20,000 and was sentenced under video posted April 2 by a Face- Monday evening, saying his res-
the opportunity to a lesser sentence since the Holmes Youthful Training Act to book group called PCI: Pred- ignation was accepted effective
move out of the state Sanders did not get two years’ probation, credit for two ator Catchers Indiana was immediately.
for work, Berrien Coun- credit for the time he days served and $2,646.81 in fines, widely circulated throughout Weimer, who did not identify
ty Trial Judge Sterling has spent in jail. costs and restitution. The charge will the Brandywine community Stier, said she could not share
Schrock said the choice “I’d just like to say be kept off her record if she is suc- on April 10. The video alleged- further details about the sit-
was between prison that I’m sorry for my ac- cessful on probation. The incident ly shows Stier entering a hotel uation. However, she encour-
and the Swift & Sure tions, I’d like to get this occurred Dec. 4, 2020, at the Niles room in South Bend with the aged parents to contact her at
Sanctions Probation over with and not get Walmart. intent to meet a teenager he kweimer@brandywinebobcats.
Program which would Aaron Andrew in any more trouble,” • Justin Lee Wilson, 33, of Three met on the internet. Instead, org or (269) 684-7150 to share
require Bennett to live Smith Sanders said. “I’m too Oaks, pleaded guilty to attempted Stier was met by adult repre- their concerns.
in Michigan. old for this. I’ve made possession of a taser and providing sentatives from the group, who “As always, the safety and
“This is straddle cell sentence. It’s bad decisions in my life, but I want false information to police and was confronted him about messag- well-being of your children is
just a question of where he’s going to move on and live a normal life.” sentenced to credit for two days es exchanged between him and our highest priority,” she wrote.
to serve it, Swift & Sure or prison,” Judge Schrock noted that Sanders served and $2,618 in fines and costs. a decoy pretending to be 14 “We will continue to take all
eJudge Schrock said. “He’s got all the had had plenty of opportunities to The incident occurred Feb. 11 in years old. measures to ensure that stu-
excuses in the world. … He doesn’t live a normal life but had absconded Bertrand Township. He has pending Though referred to as “Frank dents are educated in a safe and
want to be supervised in Michigan from parole. charges in Tennessee. Smith” in the video, Stier’s iden- nurturing environment.”
Page 10 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 CRIMES & COURTS Niles Daily Star
Parolee heading back to jail
By DEBRA HAIGHT
Leader Publications Contributor
CASSOPOLIS – A Dowagiac man
already on parole will spend the next
year in jail after being sentenced in
Cass County Circuit Court Friday.
Eric Robert Szymonski, 31, of
Frost Street in Dowagiac, pleaded
guilty to receiving and concealing
stolen firearms as a habitual offender
and was sentenced to 365 days in jail
as part of a plea agreement. He must
pay $1,698 in fines and costs.
He has credit for no time served
as he was on parole from an earli-
er sentence for home invasion and
breaking and entering. He could end
up going back to prison for the parole
violation. The current jail term can
be served in any correctional facility.
The incident occurred May 15,
2020, in Cassopolis. Szymonski stole
a weapon from his grandmother and
sold it for $280.
“It’s a pretty bad return on your
money, $280 for a year in jail and pos-
sibly prison and you ripped off your
grandma,” Cass Circuit Judge Mark
Herman said. “I don’t think people
who ripped off their grandma de-
serve a break. You would be going to
prison except for a plea agreement.”
Cass County Prosecutor Victor
Fitz called it a case of “stupid is as
stupid does” and noted Szymonski
had three prior felonies and seven
misdemeanors.
“This is a good deal for the defen-
dant, better than he deserves,” Fitz
said.
Fitz said he respected Szymonski
Eric Szymonski Ronnie Moore Jr. Benjamin Lewis
for having goals of getting off drugs and was sentenced to 180 days in jail
and starting his own business but with credit for 94 days served and
said there has to be actions and not $125 in fines and costs. That incident
just words. occurred Jan. 9 when he had an al-
“There’s a lot I would like to do tercation with a deputy in the Cass
over,” Szymonski said. “I want a County Jail.
chance to make up for what I’ve done Judge Herman noted that Merry-
and make myself better.” man has already spent nine years of
Another Dowagiac man chose his life behind bars in either jail or
probation and jail over a straight jail prison.
term after pleading guilty to drug and “You’ve asked for probation, I hope
assault charges. you’re serious about it,” the judge said.
Gene Edward Merryman, 39, of “Last year you weren’t. You spent
Center Street in Dowagiac, pleaded five months on probation and ended
guilty to possession of meth as a ha- up having issues. You’re looking at a
bitual offender and was sentenced to prison sentence here if you don’t take
two years’ probation, 210 days in jail your probation seriously.”
with credit for 124 days served and Defense attorney Robert Drake
$1,548 in fines and costs. said Merryman believes he can start
The incident occurred Dec. 20, dealing with his drug addiction with
2020, in Dowagiac when police re- treatment.
ceived a report of Merryman not hav- A Vandalia resident who touched
ing returned a vehicle to its owner. women without their consent re-
When police found Merryman and ceived probation and credit for time
the car, they also found meth, mari- served Friday.
juana and drug paraphernalia. Ronnie Demetrius Moore Jr., 48,
He also pleaded guilty to attempt- of Vandalia, pleaded guilty to two
ed resisting and obstructing police counts of attempted fourth-degree
Dowagiac man sentenced
on firearms charges
James Peterson
criminal sexual conduct and was
sentenced to 12 months’ probation,
credit for 201 days served and $1,550
in fines and costs. He must register as
a sex offender.
Those two incidents occurred
Dec. 2, 2019, and Feb. 26, 2020, in the
Cassopolis area. In the first instance,
he grabbed and squeezed a woman’s
buttocks at a gas station in Vandalia.
In the second incident, he touched
a woman on her buttocks when she
was running along a road.
He also pleaded guilty to unlawful
use of a motor vehicle and was given
to 201 days already served and or-
dered to pay $375 in fines and costs.
That incident occurred July 10 in
Cassopolis when he took and didn’t
return a friend’s car.
“Mr. Moore needs to understand
he’s flirting with disaster,” Fitz said.
“Twice he improperly touched a
woman. He did the second one while
on bond with the first. He’s playing
with fire, he could end up in prison.
He needs to respect boundaries. The
women are very angry, one wants him
to spend a lot of time incarcerated.”
“You’re lucky to be before me on
misdemeanor charges, otherwise
you would be going back to prison,”
Judge Herman said. “If you take it
upon yourself to touch another wom-
an while you’re on probation, you will
go back to jail for the maximum term.
You aren’t to be touching anyone.”
In other sentencings:
• Benjamin Jacob Lewis, 39, of
Marcellus, pleaded guilty to pos-
session of meth and was sentenced
to three years’ probation, credit
for 26 days served and $2,628 for
an incident Feb, 23, 2020, in Mar-
cellus. He also pleaded guilty to
domestic violence on the same oc-
casion and was given credit for 26
days served and $300 in fines and
costs. He pleaded guilty to use of
meth and was sentenced to credit
for 25 days served and $625 for an
incident Aug. 17, 2019, in Cassop-
olis.
• James Lloyd Peterson, 32,
of Marcellus, pleaded guilty to
domestic violence and was sen-
tenced to six months’ probation,
credit for two days served, $1,275
in fines and costs. The incident oc-
curred Nov. 20, 2019 in Marcellus.
• A 21-year-old, of Warren,
Michigan, pleaded guilty to pos-
session of analogues and illegal en-
try and was sentenced 18 months’
probation, credit for 15 days served,
$2,198 in fines and costs. The inci-
dent occurred Jan. 19, 2020, in Dow-
agiac. He can keep the charge off his
record if he is successful on proba-
tion.
Niles Daily Star LIFESTYLES Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 11

NEWS IN BRIEF
PET OF THE WEEK
4-H announces alumni, supporters walking challenge
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — Area residents will be able to
Meet Odie, this week’s Pet of the put their steps to good use next month to support local 4-H.
Week. This sweet boxer mix is about Starting on May 2, the Michigan 4-H Alumni Engagement
10 years old. He has some separation Committee will be hosting a 4-H Alumni & Supporters
anxiety as he loves his people, Walking Challenge. Until May 29, participants will be able to
volunteers said. track their steps/miles walked all the while competing for a
When young, Odie was abused. After top spot in the contest. The event is free and open to all 4-H
years, he has learned to trust again. He alumni and supporters.
is good with most dogs and OK with Pre-registration is required and can be done online
cats with slow introduction. He is ready at: events.anr.msu.edu/AluminiWalkingChallenge or by
to learn a more manners. contacting the Berrien County Michigan State University
Extension Office at (269) 927-5674. Deadline to register is
He likes children, but with his energy,
midnight May 28.
volunteers do not believe he would be For more information, contact Kelly Stelter, 4-H Program
a good match with small ones. Coordinator at (269) 927-5674 ext. 4015 or via email at
Love walks or have a fenced grandtke@msu.edu.
yard? Give him a chance. For more
information, contact Seven Star Rescue Niles native wins statewide journalism contest
at sevenstarrescue.org or (269) 588- NORTH MANCHESTER, Ind. — The Manchester University
0470. student newspaper, Oak Leaves, received three writing awards
in the 2021 Indiana Collegiate Press Association statewide
contest.
Carly Greaves, an English major from Niles, won a first-place
award for writing. She was recognized for best news story.

Niles real estate agent named Realtor of the Year

SUBMITTED inum Sales Awards for real estate
sales production. She achieved the
NILES — Tammy Anders, owner/ association’s Lifetime Silver Club
broker with MI Realty, a Michigan status in 1997 and the Gold Lifetime
real estate Company in Niles, was membership in 2001. Anders has
named the 2021 Realtor of the Year served on many aassociation com-
for the Southwestern Michigan Asso- mittees, including MLS, Finance,
With campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Indi-
ana, Manchester provides vibrant and transformative student
experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-man-
chester.
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every
individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction
who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled,
productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human
condition.

ciation of Realtors.
This prestigious award is present-
ed to one realtor in southwestern
Michigan each year. The recipient
must be active in the association
and their community, as well as ded-
icated to furthering their education
and commitment to the real estate
industry.
Anders was first licensed as a real-
tor in 1991 and opened her own in-
dependent real estate brokerage in
August 2019. In this period of time,
the brokerage has grown to host a
current total of seven realtors serv-
ing the local communities of south-
western Michigan.
Anders holds numerous profes-
sional designations, including Certi-
fied Residential Specialist, Graduate
REALTORS Institute, Resort and Sec-
ond-Home Property Specialist, Se-
niors Real Estate Specialist, Military
Relocation Professional, The Pricing
Strategy Advisor, and At Home With
Tammy Anders, of MI Realty in Niles,
was recognized as the Realtor of
the Year by the Southwest Michigan
Association of Realtors. (Submitted
photo)
Diversity. Currently, Anders is serv-
ing her second term as director at
large on the South Western Michi-
gan Association of Realtors Board of
Directors.
Anders is a long-time recipient of
the association’s Diamond and Plat-
special delivery
Member Services, Governmental
Affairs, Public Relations, Profession-
al Development, and Placemaking
Grants. She has volunteered in many
community events through SWMAR,
such as their annual beach clean- Meet the newest additions to the community
ups, and worked at numerous local each Thursday on the Lifestyle page.
parks.
In her local community, Anders
has served as a Junior Achievement
instructor, a coach for the United Parents: Visit leaderpub.com
to fill out an announcement
Way Girls on the Run program, and and send in a picture of your
as a Girl Scout leader. She has volun- pride and joy.
teered for the Brandywine Fine Arts
Program, for the Brandywine Histo-
ry Club, and also has served as the
treasurer for the Brandywine Band
Boosters. Anderson currently vol-
unteers and supports the Salvation
Army and Toys for Tots, and is an
active member of the Niles Chamber
of Commerce, as well as participat-
ing with her brokerage in the Mich-
igan Department of Transportation
Adopt A Highway program.
Page 12 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 OBITUARIES Niles Daily Star
Robert Baird
Dec. 8, 1941 — April 20, 2021
Robert P. “Bob” Baird, 79,
of Niles, passed away at 6:49
p.m. Tuesday, April 20, 2021,
at the Ernestine M. Raclin
House-Center for Hospice
Care in Mishawaka, Indiana,
following a brief illness.
Bob was born on Dec. 8,
1941, in Elkhart, Indiana and
grew up in New Carlisle, Indi-
ana, before moving to Niles in
1975.
He was preceded in death
by his parents, John and Jane
(Watt) Hooten; and his broth-
er, Thomas “Mac” McCord
Baird.
Bob was a Navy Veteran of
Submarine Service. He had a
Bachelor’s Degree in Chris-
tian Ministry from Great
Lakes Christian College and
a Bachelor’s Degree in Elec-
tronics from Andrews Uni-
versity.
Bob was currently serving
as the Pastor of Prairie Gar-
dens Christian Fellowship
Church in New Carlisle, In-
We’ll be there when you need us most
Patricia
McCauslin
April 11, 1931 — April 15, 2021
Patricia McCauslin, 90, of
Edwardsburg, died peaceful-
ly at home Thursday, April
15, 2021, surrounded by her
loving family just four days
after her ninetieth birthday.
Her life began April 11,
1931, in Peoria, Illinois, the
youngest of seven children
born to James and Jessie Mc-
Gann. She married Thom-
as John McCauslin Dec. 10,
1950, in Cassopolis. After
more than 58 years of mar-
riage, he preceded her in
death Dec. 30, 2008.
Pat was born to humble
beginnings and ended up
traveling the world with her
husband. She was a home-
maker (and wooden spoon
ruler) who fiercely loved her
family above all else. Having
raised and lived with her
husband and four sons, Pat
diana, where he has served
for over 20 years. He be-
came a Pastor when he was
49 years old and loved his
Church Family. Prior to that,
he worked for Kearney and
Trecker as an electronic tech-
nician and as an electrician
at Bendix Corp.
On July 3, 1965, he married
the love of his life, Connie J.
Whitinger, at the former Low-
ell Heights Methodist Church
in South Bend, Indiana.
Bob is survived by his lov-
ing wife of 55 years, Connie
Baird of Niles, MI; daughter,
was thrilled when daugh-
ters-in-law and grand-
daughters (and grandsons)
joined the family. The fam-
ily remembers her attend-
ing countless sporting and
school events in support of
her children and grandchil-
dren.
Pat and her husband de-
veloped lifelong friendships,
beginning when they lived
on O’Keefe Street in Cassop-
olis. Family meant every-
Pamela K. (Michael) Sebasty
of Buchanan; son, William
M. (Marianna) Baird of Niles;
seven grandchildren, Laura
(Tony) Layne; Melissa (Ben)
Larson; Christina (Michael)
Ringle; Esmee Baird; Iona
Baird; Clement Baird; Meline
Baird; Greg (Katie) Sebasty;
and Alex (Rebecca) Se-
basty;10 great-grandchildren
who adored him; and his sis-
ter, Lisa (Michael) Chakerian
of California.
Bob was a member of EAA
in Niles. He was a small air-
craft pilot and instructor
who loved flying. Bob en-
joyed tinkering with planes,
cars, and equipment. He
always said that his favor-
ite job was working with his
family at the Harvest Café in
thing to her.
Patricia will be greatly
missed by family and friends.
She is survived by four sons,
Michael (Lucy) McCauslin,
of Niles, Patrick (Rhonda)
McCauslin, of Edwardsburg,
Mark McCauslin, of Niles,
Kevin (Sharon) McCauslin,
of Plainwell; five grandchil-
dren, Thomas McCauslin,
John (Kim) McCauslin,
Jenifer (Mike) Bevins, Megan
( fiance’ Adam Warner) Mc-
Causlin, Jason McCauslin;
two great-grandchildren,
Avry Bevins, Madelyn Bev-
ins; and a host of nieces and
nephews.
In addition to her hus-
band, she was preceded in
death by her parents; three
sisters, Louise Fitzgerald,
Virginia McGann, Catherine
McGann; and three broth-
ers, James McGann, Donald
McGann, and William Mc-
Gann.
Family and friends gath-
Niles, where he was known
as “Beignet Bob.” Bob always
had a passion for life and his
family. He will forever be re-
membered for his smile, his
friendliness, his love of the
Lord, and his love of every-
one around him. His grand-
children and great-grand-
children will remember him
for his story-telling and “pig-
piles”.
Visitation will be from 4
t o8 p.m. Monday, April 26,
2021, at Kaniewski Funeral
Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive,
South Bend.
Funeral Services will be
held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April
27, 2021, at Kaniewski Funer-
al Home, South Bend, with
Minister Neil Milliman offici-
ating. Burial will follow in St.
Joseph Valley Memorial Park,
Granger, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, Connie
requests that you support the
Harvest Café in Niles in mem-
ory of “Beignet Bob.”
To send online condolenc-
es, please visit kaniewski.
com.
ered Tuesday, April 20, 2021
from noon until 2 p.m. in
Connelly Chapel Wagner
Family Funerals, 202 N.
Broadway St., Cassopolis.
They then proceeded to
Saint Ann Catholic Church,
421 N. Broadway St., Cassop-
olis, for a Funeral Mass at
2:15 p.m.
Mrs. McCauslin was laid
to rest beside her beloved
husband in Prospect Hill
Cemetery in Cassopolis.
The family prefers contri-
butions be made in memory
of Mrs. McCauslin to either,
Caring Circle Hospice, 4025
Health Park Lane, St. Jo-
seph, Michigan 49085, or the
Edwardsburg Food Pantry,
24832 US 12 East, Edwards-
burg, Michigan 49112.
Arrangements have been
entrusted to Connelly Chap-
el Wagner Family Funerals,
Cassopolis. Please share a
memory or a message on-
line: wagnercares.com.
 Niles Daily Star OBITUARIES Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 13
James Brady
sMarch 18, 1944 — April 14, 2021
s Mason Brady, Gavin Rasler,
- James “Jim” Robert Brady,
s77, of Niles, passed away at
ehis home on Wednesday,
-April 14, 2021.
- Jim was born on March
-18, 1944, to the late Robert
mand Mildred (Prather) Brady.
-After graduating from high
school, Jim married his high
4school sweetheart, Judith A.
,Bata, and together they had
lthree children, Tanya, Jason,
,and Lisa. Jim loved spend-
ing time with his family and
eenjoyed coaching all of his
lchildren during school. He
-was a baseball, basketball,
h
- ments are pending with Brown Funeral Home & Crema-
.Dustin Clubb
,July 21, 1980 — April 6, 2021
e Dustin John Clubb, 40, of
eNiles, son, father, brother, avid
-reader, animal lover, and joker
died unexpectedly on Tues-
-day, April 6, 2021, at his home
.of natural causes.
He was born on July 26,
1980, in Niles to Gilbert E. and
Margaret C. (Demos) Clubb,
1and was graduated from Niles
nHigh School. He has lived in
rNiles all of his life, and was
.employed for many years in
.the Niles office of Enterprise
oRent-A-Car.
, Dustin enjoyed reading a
-wide variety of topics includ-
ting history and poetry, and
had a special interest in sci-
d and have been entrusted with Brown Funeral Home &
d Cremation Services. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
lEffie Herrington
Sept. 24, 1930 — April 15, 2021
- rington and he preceded her
y Effie Belle Herrington, 90, of
,Niles, passed to her rest April
515, 2021, in the Emergency
-Room of Memorial Hospital,
esuddenly.
, She was born Sept. 24, 1930,
-in Niles, the daughter of Bion
and Rosa (Dewey) Carpenter
nand has lived in this area all of
-her life. Her last employment
,was at Selmers Instruments
a(band instruments) in Elkhart.
- Effie was an active person,
always ready to knit or crochet
and softball coach for the
boys and girls teams. Jim also
enjoyed going to the horse
track and betting on his fa-
vorite horses.
ence fiction for which he had
also collected some replica
items. He loved animals and
always had pets including his
current bluenose pit bull terri-
er, Chevelle.
He was well-known for his
something and liked watching
football games.
He was preceded in death
by his father, Robert Brady,
and his mother, Mildred
Taylor.
Jim is survived by his
children, Tanya (Sean) Mc-
Nelis, of Niles, Jason (Jenni-
fer) Brady, of West Minster,
California, and Lisa Fisk, of
Niles; grandchildren, Jaxx
(Larissa) Tripp, Janell Tripp,
sense of humor. He was quick
with a joke on almost any sub-
ject, but could also improvise
an extended amusing story,
always leaving his listeners
wishing for more.
He was preceded in death
by his father, Gilbert Clubb
who — like Dustin — died far
too young in 1991.
Surviving family includes
his daughter, Lakenzie Bris-
ter, of LaGrange, Indiana;
his mother, Margaret (Tom)
Woodley, of Niles; his sister,
Amber Traeger, of Niles and
step-brother, Sgt. Paul Piszak-
er, U.S. Army, of Alabama;
nephews and niece Stephen
Traeger, Lena Williams, and
Paul Piszker, Jr.; and a circle
of close friends.
Effie was married, as Ef-
fie Carpenter to James Her-
in passing. Surviving are two
sisters, Sharron Botts, of Ed-
wardsburg, and Rosa Lee Ar-
cher, of Port Richie, Florida.
There are many nieces and
nephews including a niece,
Sally Haines of Edwardsburg,
who was her “care-giver and
POA.”
She was preceded in pass-
ing by her parents, her hus-
band and her siblings, Norma
Hartline, Marjorie Bauer, Bion
Carpenter, Jr., Duane Carpen-
Leah Tripp, Joshua McNelis,
Amanda Cruz, Justin Cruz,
Bella Rasler, Zaine Fisk, and
Lanie Fisk; great-grandchil-
dren, Jayse, Paislee, Tayte,
and Kohlson; and many ex-
tended family members and
close friends.
Jim’s family will be hosting
a memorial gathering at a
later date.
Condolences, photos, and
memories may be left for
the family at BrownFuneral-
HomeNiles.com.
Arrangements have been
entrusted to Brown Funeral
Home & Cremation Services,
of Niles.
The family of Dustin Clubb
will gather privately to share
memories and celebrate
his life. Arrangements were
made at the Halbritter-Wick-
ens Funeral Home in Niles.
Online condolences may be
left at: halbritterwickens.
com.
While Dustin clearly en-
joyed the solitude of reading,
the beauty of poetry, and the
creative imagination of sci-
fi, those all were secondary
to his pleasure in the real
world of greeting customers
at the counter of Enterprise,
entertaining friends with
impromptu stand-up perfor-
mances, enjoying a meal with
his family, or curling-up at
home with a pet companion.
ter and Fred Carpenter.
There will be a celebration
of her life at 2 p.m. Wednesday,
April 21, 2021, at the original
small Chapel in Mission Hills
Memorial Gardens, 61453
M-51 N., Niles. Officiating will
be Pastor Nate Starkey of Hope
United Methodist Church, Ed-
wardsburg. The interment will
take place immediately fol-
lowing the service in the Old
Rugged Cross section of the
Cemetery.
Arrangements are by the
Paul E. Mayhew Funeral
Home, Edwardsburg.
Nancy Jane children; 16 great-grand-
children; and one great-
Harman great-grandchild.
Nov. 4, 1941 — April 9, 2021 She was preceded in
death by her mother, father,
Nancy Jane Harman three brothers and one sis-
passed away April 9, 2021, in ter.
South Bend. A time of visitation will
She was born Nov. 4, 1941 take place 1 p.m. Satur-
in Dowagiac. day, April 17 at Indian Lake
She is survived by her Yacht Club in Dowagiac.
husband, Lew Harman; four Memorial contributions
children, Tina Hill, Carol may be made to 1202 N.
Harman, Jon Harman, and Redbud Trail, Buchanan, MI
Judith Harman; eight grand- 49017.
DEATH NOTICES
Glydia Bowers, 77, of Coldwater, passed away on Sat-
urday, April 17, 2021, at the Laurels of Coldwater. Arrange-
tion Services, Niles. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Phyllis Carlson, 81, of Niles, died Tuesday, April 20,
2021. Arrangements are being made by Brown Funeral
Home, of Niles.
Alma Cox-Chadwick, 87, of Battle Creek, passed
Monday, April 19, 2021, in Battle Creek. Arrangements
are pending and have been entrusted to Brown Funeral
home & Cremation Services, Niles. BrownFuneralHome-
Niles.com.
Kusuma Ekanayake, 89, of Niles, passed away Wednes-
day, April 21, 2021, at Memorial Hospital. Arrangements
are pending and entrusted to Brown Funeral Home &
Cremation Services, Niles. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.
com.
Tim Hayden, 57, of Niles, passed away on Thursday,
April 15, 2021, at his home. Arrangements are pending
Brenda K. Monroe, 72, of Niles, passed away on Friday,
April 16, 2021, at her home. Arrangements have been en-
trusted with Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services
of Niles. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Keith Rogers, 62, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed
away on Thursday, April 15, 2021, at Bronson Methodist
Hospital, Kalamazoo, Michigan. Arrangements are pend-
ing and entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.
Daniel Sullivan, 73, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed
away Sunday, April 11, 2021, at Spectrum Lakeland, Niles.
Arrangements are pending and have been entrusted to
Brown Funeral Home, Niles.
Page 14 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 OBITUARIES Niles Daily Star
Dorothy Leach
July 4, 1955 — April 18, 2021
Dorothy Jane (Reece)
Leach, 65, of South Haven,
passed away Sunday, April
18, 2021, at the Holland Hos-
pital. She was born July 4,
1955, in South Bend, Indiana.
Dorothy married the love of
her life, David Leach, Sr., on
Dec. 25, 1973, in South Bend.
They shared 47 years in
marriage. Dorothy enjoyed
crafting and reading. She es-
pecially enjoyed time spent
with her grandchildren and
attending their numerous
activities.
She is preceded in death
by her daughter – Amanda
Spencer; mother and fa-
ther-in-law – Doris and Fred
Leach
Dorothy is survived by her
husband – David Leach, Sr. of
South Haven; children – Da-
vid (Hope) Leach, Jr. of South
Haven and Olivia (Charles)
Bosma of South Haven;
grandchildren – Mason and
Zoey Leach, Tyler Leach, Al-
yssa and Jacob Bosma, Cobey
Paul Newcomb
June 5, 1946 — April 19, 2021
Paul Roy Newcomb was
born June 5, 1946, in Far-
num New York. He grad-
uated from the University
of Buffalo with a degree in
Social Work. Paul had three
brothers; Ray, Mike and Bill.
He married his client, Janet
Dorton in 1971. He graduat-
ed with a Doctorate in So-
cial Work from Florida State
University.
Paul had three children;
Iris, Joshua and Tatiana. He
taught at Central Michi-
gan University in Mt. Pleas-
ant, Michigan. In 1998, he
moved to South Bend, Indi-
ana, where he was the head
of the Graduate School of
Social Work and taught
classes. Paul retired in 2012.
He married Madelon Miller
in 2001, after years of mar-
riage with Janet. Paul also
and Alexis Spencer; sisters-
in-law – Sandy (Mike) White
and Sharon Leach; brother-
in-law – Bruce Leach; long
time childhood friend – Lin-
da Kerchner-Scheibelhut.
Visitation will be held
from 3 to 4 p.m. on Thursday,
June 10, 2021, at the Beth-
el Baptist Church in South
Haven. Memorial services
will follow the visitation at 4
p.m. with Pastor Gary Guth-
rie officiating at the church.
Kindly share your thoughts
and memories on the fami-
ly’s online guestbook at Fil-
brandtFFH.com.
had two step-daughters
with Madelon; Nichole and
Alyssa. He had two grand-
children, Tim Ota and No-
elle Ota and a step grand-
child from Nichole named
Sebastian.
After retiring from full
time work, he and Medelon
were substitute teachers for
several years.
Visitation for Paul will be
on Monday, April 26, 2021
from 2 to 5 p.m. at Halbrit-
ter Wickens Funeral Home
615 E. Main St. in Niles. A
Mass of Christian burial will
be celebrated on Tuesday,
April 27, 2021, at 11 a.m.
at St. Mary of the Immac-
ulate Conception Catholic
Church. Burial will follow at
Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials in Paul’s name
may be made to St. Mary of
the Immaculate Catholic
Church 219 S. State St. Niles,
MI 49120.
Kristina
Monahon
May 24, 1985 — April 19, 2021
Kristina “Krissy” Monahon,
35, passed away on April 19,
2021, at home surrounded by
her family.
She was born May 24, 1985,
in Niles, to Charles “Chuck”
and Mary Monahon. In 2004,
she married James Trussell in
Niles. Even though that ended,
they remained friends through
the years. In 2016, she married
Kyle Florian in Dowagiac.
Kristina has five children
that she is leaving behind,
whom she loved with every-
thing she had. She enjoyed do-
ing what she could with them.
Whether it be going on nature
walks, fishing, going to the lake,
Joseph Davis
Oct.17, 1941 — April 9, 2021
Joseph L. Davis, of Laurel,
Montana passed away Friday,
April 9, 2021, at the age of 79.
Joe was born to Keith and
Martha Davis in Jay County
Portland, Indiana on Oct. 17,
1941, where he acquired a love
of the outdoors, farm life, and
animals. He was a life-long
learner, avid reader, wood
worker, and builder. He grew
up and went to high school in
Niles, where he developed a
talent and deep appreciation
for music, graduating from
Niles High School in 1959. He
played the coronet in high
Charles Davidson
June 8, 1933 — July 31, 2020
Charles (Chuck) Davidson,
87, of Humboldt, Tennessee,
passed away of natural causes
in Jackson, Tennessee on Fri-
day, July 31, 2020.
Charles was born on June 8,
1933, to the late Clyde and Mae
Davidson in Kaiser, Arkansas.
Chuck was a Marine and
proudly served his country in
Korea. He was a life member of
the DAV and the Niles Elks. He
was employed by and retired
from the National Standard
Company in 1995.
Chuck was a die-hard St.
Louis Cardinal fan, played golf
selling Girl Scout cookies or
mushroom hunting (which she
was just talking about wanting
to do); and going to the casino
with her parents. Whatever it
was, with whomever, she loved
every minute of it. Even though
school and for the Michigan
State Marching band where
he attended college studying
music and animal husbandry.
He was awarded scholarships
to attend Interlochen Center
for the Arts as a horn player.
After college he married
Madelon Bennett Aug. 8, 1964,
in Niles, and began work for
Michigan Bell in 1967. He
worked for telephone com-
panies for 30 years doing ev-
erything from climbing poles
to installing the first fiber op-
tic network in South Central
Montana. He always wanted
to live in the West and moved
his family to Wyoming and
Montana in the early ‘70s.
in several golf leagues and he
loved to bowl. He bowled seven
300 games after he turned 70,
quite the accomplishment.
He was preceded in death by
cancer was consuming her
body, she fought that evil long
and hard to be here as long as
she could for her babies.
Kristina is preceded in death
by her father, Chuck Monahon,
and brother, Rodney Haney.
She is survived by her hus-
band, Kyle Florian, of Dowa-
giac; children, Zaiden Cowan,
Dakota Monahon, Alayna
Henney, Aryona Henney and
Bryson Henney, all of Niles;
mother, Mary Monahon, of
Niles; siblings, Charles Mona-
hon Jr., of South Bend, Indiana,
Julie Peppers, of Niles, John
Monahon, of Niles, and Mark
Haney, of Niles. She leaves be-
hind nieces, nephews, extend-
ed family, an overabundance of
friends (maybe even some ene-
mies), close friends and lifelong
Working full-time for the
phone company, he found
time to help many friends
build and remodel their
homes and cabins on a variety
of construction projects. Joe
served with the Laurel Volun-
teer Fire Department for over
10 years. He designed and
built the first electronic shot
box for them and helped to
produce the annual Fourth of
July fireworks show for many
years.
Joe loved his dogs and hors-
es – and they loved him. He
was known for a quick-witted
sense of humor. In retirement,
Joe spent time woodworking
in his shop, playing the guitar,
his parents, Clyde and Mae Da-
vidson; daughters, Joy and Jill
Davidson; siblings, Milton, John
and Clyde Davidson, Betty Lillie
and Linda Herring.
Chuck is survived by his wife,
Patsy (Bailey) Davidson; daugh-
ter, Robin (John) Bays; grand-
children, April (Brian) Sauders
and Aaron (Amanda) Smith;
three great-grandchildren, Ava,
close friends that were adopted
into the family.
Krissy, as most known her
by, will always be remembered
— either it be because of her
loving, kind-hearted, easy spir-
it, “I got your back” ways, or
her hot temper, hands flying,
Maglite hits, “I’m gonna ****
you up” attitude.
Just believe she gets mad
respect for fighting her can-
cer long and hard. The love for
Krissy will forever continue...
behave yourself “Meenie Tee-
nie.”
Visitation for Kristina will be
held from 4 to 7 pm on Mon-
day, April 26, 2021, at Hoven
Funeral Home, Buchanan.
Cremation will take place after.
Online condolences may be
made at hovenfunerals.com.
and spending time with his
family and dogs.
Joseph is survived by his
wife, Madelon; sons, Andrew
(Drew) and Kord; daughter-
in-law, Sarah; and grandchil-
dren, Cooper and Tucker Da-
vis, and Shayla and Kennedy
Deming, of Montana. He is
also survived by brother-in-
law, Brian Bennett, and nieces
and nephews in Michigan.
Joe was preceded in death
by his parents, sister and
brother in law Rosy and Tony
Roberts, of Michigan.
At Joe’s request, there will
be no memorial. His ashes will
be scattered at a later date in a
location he loved.
Amelia and Brooks. He is also
survived by his siblings, Col.
Lonnie Davidson, Dave (Mary-
Ann) Davidson, Gladys (Ken)
Keith and Shirley Snyder as well
as his loving dog, Brutus.
He loved his family with all
his heart and was always there
for them, he is truly missed.
The family is hosting a me-
morial service to celebrate
Chuck’s life 10 a.m. Wednesday,
April 28, 2021, at Silverbrook
Cemetery. Chuck’s brother
Dave will be delivering the eu-
logy, friends and family are wel-
come.
Brown Funeral Home & Cre-
mation Services, of Niles, assist-
ed the family.
 GOT RESULTS?
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
(269) 687-7702
SPORTS SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2021
MORE ONLINE
For more stories and photos
visit www.leaderpub.com

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ROADRUNNERS ADD TO ROSTER

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President Dr. Joe Odenwald with Bailee; her mom, Tangula Crawford; and Chris Kowalewski, who coaches boys and girls cross country and girls track. (Submitted photo)

-
. Mishawaka‘s Shambaugh selects Southwestern Michigan College to run
) SUBMITTED Shambaugh, who hopes to study nurs- lacked.” was pretty good at it, kind of fast. I love
l ing at SMC, was flanked at the signing Another source of information was it. We’re in track season right now, so
DOWAGIAC — Mishawaka High by her mother, Tangula Crawford, and friends from work who attend SMC. I’ve been training with that team.”
l School’s Bailee Shambaugh signed a her track and cross-country coach, “They told me a bunch of good things Her teammates gathered around her
e letter of intent for Southwestern Mich- Chris Kowalewski. City of Mishawaka about it, so that kind of sparked my in- in the gymnasium to support her in the
igan College’s fall return to National Ju- Superintendent of Schools Wayne Bark- terest once I went for my official tour,” signing ceremony.
- nior College Athletic Association cross er and SMC President Dr. Joe Odenwald said Shambaugh, who is employed at “When summer comes around, I’ll
country on Monday. also attended the ceremony. Sky Zone, the chain of indoor trampo- start to pick up my mileage and do lon-
Shambaugh joins Coloma’s Vanes- She decided between SMC and a larg- line parks. ger distances,” Shambaugh said.
k sa Crisenbery as the second woman er university in Indiana. Shambaugh started running cross At the Fort Wayne Semi-State, the
to commit to the Roadrunners for fall “At the other school, I got to talk to country in sixth grade. Cavemen’s 12th  trip in the last 14 sea-
- 2021, along with men Robert “Bust- a couple of people,” she said. “When I “I started track in fifth grade,” she sons, Shambaugh ran her personal 5K
- er” Ward, William Westphal and Ben went to SMC, I was able to meet with said. “I do both. I started as a sprinter record, 20:46. Mishawaka advanced to
Gillesby, of Cassopolis, Gavin Smith, of almost everybody I would work with to and got into cross country more in high regionals by finishing second to Penn,
- Decatur, and Samuel Reed-Loomis, of get my college degree. It really opened school, when I became a long-distance with Shambaugh named to October’s
- Otsego. my eyes to what [the other institution] runner. I like running in general, and I All-Sectional team. 
Page 16 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 SPORTS Niles Daily Star

HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL/BASEBALL ROUNDUP

Dowagiac, Niles 2-1 at Chieftain Invitational

Viking baseball team 2-0,
Chieftains 1-1 at Frazier
By SCOTT NOVAK
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
DOWAGIAC — Both Niles and host Dow-
agiac were 2-1 at the Chieftain Invitational
Softball Tournament last Saturday.
The Chieftains dropped their opening
game to Hartford 6-1, but rebounded to de-
feat Kalamazoo Central 7-6 and previously
undefeated Berrien Springs 10-3.
Niles lost its opener to Bridgman 8-5, but
rallied to edge Paw Paw 10-9 and beat Wa-
tervliet 15-10.
Dowagiac is now 4-1 on the season, while
Niles is 4-3.
“Our day started on a sour note but end-
ed well with two victories,” said Dowagiac
Coach Mike Behnke. “Against Hartford, we
just didn’t have good at-bats with runners
on base. We had multiple runners on base
in every inning except the seventh and just
couldn’t score. Against Kalamazoo Cen-
tral, we put balls in play, and they made
mistakes that we took advantage of, and
we really fought hard to walk off with four
runs in the bottom of the seventh. The bot-
tom of our order came through with Riley
Mott singling to get us started, and then
the top of the order did their job.”
Niles’ Jude Abbadessa tossed a one-hitter against Dowagiac in the opening game of the Bryan Frazier
Memorial. The Vikings defeated the Chieftains 16-0 and Marcellus 15-1. (Leader photos/KELLY SWEENEY)
Behnke said his team took advantage of
a short-handed Shamrock squad.
Against Hartford, Dowagiac finished
with eight hits, including a double and tri-
ple by freshman Aubrey Busby. Kimi Beat-
tie and Caleigh Wimberley added doubles.
Jessie Hulett suffered the loss.
The Chieftains collected seven hits
against the Maroon Giants, including tri-
ples by Ruff and Anna Dobberstein, and
doubles from Wimberley and Busby. Sierra
Carpenter picked up the win.
Dowagiac exploded for 13 hits against
Berrien Springs. Busby had a double and a
home run, while Beattie, Dobberstein and
Wimberly all added doubles.
Carpenter picked up the win in relief.
Taylor Young and Alexis Rauch both
doubled, as Niles banged out seven hits in
its opening game against Berrien Springs.
Liv Johnson took the loss.
Against the Panthers, Niles had 17 hits,
including a double and a home run by
Rauch and doubles by Hannah Northcutt
and Ashlynn Wilken. Johnson was the win-
ning pitcher.
Niles had 14 hits against the Red Wolves.
Rauch had a double for the Vikings.
Johnson earned the win in relief.
Frazier Memorial
The Dowagiac baseball team went 1-1 at
the Bryan Frazier Memorial last Saturday.
The Chieftains were blanked by Niles
16-0 in the first game, but rebounded to
edge Marcellus 10-9.
Against the Wildcats, Dowagiac’s Antho-
ny Hyatt picked up the win with relief help
from Ethan Hannapel. Chris Mosier had a
triple for the Chieftains, who finished with
11 hits.
Niles banged out 12 hits against the
Chieftains, including doubles by Cameron
Clanton, Jude Abbadessa (two) and Cade
Vota.
Abbadessa tossed a one-hitter with 12
strikeouts.
Against Marcellus, a 15-1 victory, Niles
finished with 12 hits, including doubles by
Chase Anders and Hunter Fazi.
Jaden Hainey picked up the win. Mason
Waggoner pitched one inning for Niles. The
pair combined on a two-hitter.

HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER

Chieftains remain unbeaten after going 1-0-1 at own tournament

By SCOTT NOVAK
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
DOWAGIAC — The Dowagiac
girls soccer team remained unbeat-
en by going 1-0-1 at its own Chieftain
Invitational last Saturday.
Dowagiac defeated short-handed
Niles 8-1 in the opening match before
tying former Wolverine Conference
foe South Haven 1-1 in its second
match of the day.
Scoring for the Chieftains
against the Vikings were LaReina
Reina with three goals, Allie Con-
nor with a pair of goals, and Ken-
ya Lee, Laura Schaller and Olivia
Ausra with a goal each.
“My hat goes off to the girls today,
especially my defense,” said Dowagi-
ac coach Chad Davis. “My backline
was very solid and steady. My defense
is allowing us to press on offense, so
we could have a little more success as
a team.”
Reina scored the lone goal for
Dowagiac against the Rams to give
the Chieftains a 1-0 lead at the time.
South Haven forced a tie with a
goal off a direct free kick with 33 sec-
onds remaining in the match.
“The second game was a very even
match with South Haven,” Davis said.
“We play very similar styles. Both
teams have a lot of speed and spread
the ball well. I was proud of the effort
that the girls gave today. They kept
their composure and their focus and
played an all-around solid game.”
Now 2-0-1 on the year, Dowagiac
is scheduled to open up Wolver-
ine Conference play at Vicksburg
Wednesday. The match is scheduled
to begin at 6:30 p.m.
On Monday, Niles was defeated by
Comstock 4-1 in a BCS Athletic Con-
ference Match.
Sydney Skarbek scored the lone
goal for the Vikings.
Renee Franco had six saves Mary Saylor tries to keep the ball away from a Dowagiac player in the Vikings’
for Niles. 8-1 loss to the Chieftains.. (Leader photos/KELLY SWEENEY)
Niles Daily Star SPORTS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 17
DAILY DATA
SOFTBALL
BUCHANAN 4-14, SOUTH HAVEN 2-2
At Buchanan
First Game
South Haven 000 101 0 – 2 5 3
Buchanan 022 000 x – 4 5 0
Sophia Lozmack (W); L. Young (L)
2B: K. Hoyt (SH), H. Kaczmarek (SH), Alea Fisher
(BU), Hannah Tompkins (BU)
Second Game
South Haven 020 00 – 2 4 3
Buchanan 337 1x – 14 10 0
Hailee Kara (W), L. Young, K. Hoyt (L,2), T. Holland
(4)
2B: E. Scheider (SH), Alea Fisher (BU)
3B: Sara Faulkner (BU), Sophia Lozmack (BU)
HR: L. Young (SH)
Varsity record: Buchanan 10-0
EDWARDSBURG 17-22, NILES 1-7
At Niles
First Game
Edwardsburg 244 25 – 17 16 0
Niles 010 00 – 1 4 3
Hannah Hartline (W); Liv Johnson (L)
2B: Alyssa Gearhart (ED), Samantha Baker (ED),
Hannah Northcutt (N)
HR: Gearhart (ED), Caitlyn Tighe (ED) 3
Second Game
Edwardsburg 55(11) 1 – 22 18 5
Niles 520 0–773
Samantha Baker, Averie Markel (W,2); Hannah
Hollingworth (L), Liv Johnson (3)
2B: Ella Castelucci (ED), Alyssa Gearhart (ED),
Caitlyn Tighe (ED), Bailey Bickel (N)
HR: Gearhart (ED), Tighe (ED), Markel (ED), Abbey
Bossler (ED) 2, Johnson (N)
Varsity records: Edwardsburg 5-1, Niles 4-5
BASEBALL
BUCHANAN 8-10, SOUTH HAVEN 2-0
At Buchanan
First Game
South Haven 000 000 2 – 2 2 0
Buchanan 010 025 x – 8 8 2
Jack Branch (W); Aaron Boyer (L), Brady Danen-
berg (5), Kaleb Bodfish (6)
2B: Drew Glavin (BU), Keeghan Pelley (BU), Cade
Preissing (BU)
HR: Macoy West (BU)
Second Game
South Haven 000 000 – 0 0 4
Buchanan 101 224 – 10 11 0
Matthew Hoover (W) no-hitter; Andrew Johnston
(L), Ethan Cole (3), Kaleb Bodfish (6)
2B: Drew Glavin (BU), Macoy West (BU), Levi
Zelmer (BU)
Varsity records: South Haven 2-5, Buchanan 10-1
CENTREVILLE 19, CASSOPOLIS 1
At Cassopolis
Centreville 2(12)0 05 – 19 12 1
Cassopolis 001 00 – 1 0 8
Jared Spencer (W); Mason Polomcak (L), C (2)
HR: Tyler Griggs (CE), Spencer (CE)
EDWARDSBURG 11, MISHAWAKA MARIAN 1
Marian 001 000 – 1 5 2
Edwardsburg 012 404 – 11 12 0
Tabor Lock (W), Ethan Cebra (6); Matt Early (L),
Henry Singer (3), Kellen Demkovich (4)
2B: Singler (M), Nate Dalenberg (ED), Connor Os-
trander (ED), Logan McColley (ED), Andrew Colvin
(ED)
Varsity record: Edwardsburg 2-1
GOLF
Wolverine Jamboree
At Hampshire C.C., Dowagiac
Medalist
Ethan Emenaker, Edwardsburg – 41
Team Scores
Edwardsburg 185, Sturgis 209, Dowagiac 287
Edwardsburg Results
Ethan Emenaker 41, Mason Crist 45, Aiden McLue
47, Jake Moore 52, Andrew Kurowski 54, Cooper Cassopolis
Cassopolis Family Clinic
Moody 53 261 M-62 North, Cassopolis, MI 49031
Medical (269) 445-3874
Dowagiac Results Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.,
Abraham Guernsey 54, Ethan Orrick 71, Jordon Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.,
Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Townsend 74, Nic Green 88, Eric Davis 99
Dental (269) 228-8500
Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.,
BCS Red Division Jamboree Fri. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Phones Only)
At Lake Michigan Hills Golf Course
Pharmacy (269) 228-8505
Medalist Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.,
Matt McKeel, Niles – 40 Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Ranger Wellness Center
22721 Diamond Cove Street, Cassopolis, MI 49031
Team Scores (269) 445-WELL (9355)
Niles 177, South Haven 216, Comstock 220, Ber- See website for current hours.
rien Springs 228, Buchanan 249, Brandywine 250 Niles
Niles Community Health Center
Individual Results 1951 Oak Street, Niles, MI 49120
Niles 177 Medical (269) 262-4749
Matt McKeel 40, Evan Buckner 43, George Pullen Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.,
Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.,
43, Aiden Krueger 51, Treton Phillips 53, Dakota Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Hinkle 54 Obstetrics & Gynecology (269) 683-0300
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Buchanan Behavioral Health (269) 665-8800
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Ethan Valentine 43, Nick McKeon 66, Quinten Pharmacy (269) 665-8900
Ruff 68, Kenny Koulchon 72, Michael Wentworth Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.,
72 Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Niles Community Health Center Dental
Our Family. Caring For Yours.
Brandywine www.cassfamilyclinic.org
122 Grant Street, Niles, MI 49120
Ben McKee 57, Jordon Waggoner 59, Wes Marlin Cassopolis Family Clinic Network is an
(269) 262-4364
Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
64, Daniel McKee 70 equal opportunity provider and employer.
Page 18 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 COMICS Niles Daily Star

COMICS PUZZLES
ADAM
& ALLEY OOP

ARLO & JANIS BIG NATE

BORN LOSER FRANK & ERNEST

GRIZZWELLS THATABABY
Niles Daily Star COMICS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 19

SODOKU PUZZLE MODERATELY CONFUSED CROSSWORD PUZZLE

HOW TO PLAY: Each row, column ANSWER TO PREVIOUS
and set of 3-by-3 boxes must
contain the numbers 1 through 9
without repetition.

DIFFICULTY RATING: 5/5

REALITY CHECK

BREVITY

HEART OF THE CITY

Page 24 • Saturday, April 24, 2021
Marketplace
Page 20 • Saturday, April 24, 2021
Classifieds
Employment
Job Opportunities
Experienced Aluminum
Extrusion Operators
Postle Extrusion a leading
manufacturer and
distributor of aluminum
extrusions, is seeking
quality minded production
workers for its Cassopolis,
MI facilities on all 3
production shifts.
**Hiring
Bonus Available**
**Increased Starting
Wage Rates**
We are looking for people
that will be running
various aluminum extrusion
machines to ensure parts are
ran and cut properly
throughout the extrusion
process.
Open Positions:
•Machine Operators/
Press Operators
•Saw Operators
•Stretchers
•Saw Helpers
•Forklift Drivers
•Packers
Postle offers highly
competitive wages and an
H[FHOOHQWEHQH¿WSDFNDJH
(Medical, Dental, Vision,
and 401k plan with
company match).
Apply in person at
201 N. Edwards St.
Cassopolis, MI 49031,
apply online at
www.postledistributors.com
and click on
Employment, or send
resume to
HR@postledistributors.com
Job Opportunities
American Millwork,
leader in production of quality
hardwood mouldings, seeking
Maintenance Tech.
Requirements:
•Electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic
trouble-shooting/preventive
maintenance skills, applied
to production machinery and
buildings.
•Self-motivated
•Leadership skills.
•Cutting torch, welder, forklift
experience
Complete benefits package,
health/dental/vision/life
insurance, 401(k), paid
holidays/vacation/personal
days. EOE.
Apply online:
www.americanmillwork.com
Apply in person 9am-2pm
or send resume to:
American Millwork LLC
4840 Beck Drive
Elkhart, IN 46516
American Millwork,
leader in production of quality
hardwood mouldings, seeking
dependable individuals for
1st & 2nd shifts.
Requirements:
•Continuous lifting
•Basic math skills
•Ability to work in fast-paced
environment
•Wood experience a plus
Complete benefits package,
health/dental/vision/life
insurance, 401(k), paid
holidays/vacation/personal
days. EOE.
Apply online:
www.americanmillwork.com
Apply in person
Monday-Friday 10am-2pm
American Millwork LLC
4840 Beck Drive
Elkhart, IN 46516
CNC OPERATORS
WANTED FOR MILL & LATHE
1st, 2nd, 3rd Shifts.
EIA & Conversational
Machines. Experienced
preferred, but will train.
Apply at www.deltamach.com
or in person:
Delta Machining, Inc.
2361 Reum Road
Niles MI 49120
www.leaderpub.com
CLASSIFIEDS Niles Daily Star
Job Opportunities
PRODUCTION
WORKERS
NEEDED
US Cargo • Bristol, Indiana
Seeking full-time workers.
Hourly & Rate Positions.
•Steady year-round work
•Competitive pay
•Excellent benefits.
Please visit us at
1280 Commerce Drive,
Bristol, Indiana
or call 574-848-1335
We invite you to join our
strong family of employees!
HELP WANTED
Need strong guys to help move
furniture
Call 269-683-1387
NILES, BUCHANAN AND SURROUNDING AREAS
217 N. Fourth St. • Niles, MI 49120 • 269-591-6105
Job Opportunities
North American
Forest Products
North American Moulding
Edwardsburg, MI
Accepting applications for the
following positions:
Day & Night Shift.
Our night shift works
(4) 10-hour shifts.
Three day weekends!
•Machine Feeders & Catchers
•Piece Rate Positions
(You control what you make!
Some make $24/hour)
•CDL Class A Drivers
Must be able to pass pre-hire
drug test/background check.
Benefits: paid holiday/vacation,
health/dental/vision/life
insurance, 401k retirement.
Send resume or apply in
person at the corporate office:
27263 May St
PO Box 600
Edwardsburg, MI 49112
Fax:269-663-5302
Email: hr1006@nafpinc.com
EOE
LOCAL BOX TRUCK
DRIVER NEEDED
26’ BOX TRUCK, NEW
LEASED EQUIPMENT
•FULL TIME
•MUST BE ABLE TO
LIFT 60 POUNDS
•REQUIRES DRIVER TO
LOAD /UNLOAD TRUCK
•VALID CHAUFFEUR
LICENSE
•MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE
***HOURLY,401K,
***VACATION/HOLIDAY PAY
Apply in person
27328 May St
Edwardsburg, MI
DIRECTOR OF
FACILITIES AND GROUNDS
Dowagiac Union Schools
See job description:
https://5il.co/ro5e
Interested applicants must
apply online at:
https://www.applitrack.com/
dowagiacschools/onlineapp/
269-782-4400
LeaderPub.com
Job Opportunities
NOW HIRING
MULTIPLE OPENINGS
$12/hr plus Overtime!!
Insurance
**PAID WEEKLY**
APPLY at:
Brothers Baking
27260 Max St,
Edwardsburg
Now Hiring:
Screw Machine Setup/Operators
CNC Lathe & VMC
Seeking qualified employees
with 2+years experience for
Acme Gridley/Brown & Sharpe
Departments.
Outstanding Wages/Benefits:
Stipend Pay Medical Plan,
Life Insurance, 401K
Paid Vacation/Holidays,
Christmas Bonus.
Send Resume:
Jessen Mfg. Company
PO Box 1729,
Elkhart, IN 46515
jessen@jessenmfg.com
Apply in person 8AM-3PM:
1409 W. Beardsley Ave,
Elkhart IN
NOW HIRING
WAITRESSES & COOKS &
HOSTESS
Apply in person at
The Nuggett Downtown Grill
202 E. Main, Niles
No phone calls please.
Niles Daily Star
Job Opportunities
Berrien Woods
Apartments
NOW HIRING
Maintenance Tech &
Leasing Representative
)XOOWLPHZLWKEHQH¿WV
Monday-Friday
8:00am-5:00pm
Please call for an
application
269-684-7779
EOE
Fapco in West Buchanan Hiring
Full-Time Packers
Clean environment.
1st shift 7am-3pm
2nd shift 3pm-11pm
3rd shift 11pm-7am
*ISO 9001:2015 Certified*
Advancement opportunities,
medical benefits, 401k, etc.
216 Post Road, Buchanan MI
Call 800-782-0167
Hiring Immediately!!!
Homecare workers needed to
provide bathing, housekeeping,
and running errands for clients.
$10-$12 per hour!!
PAID WEEKLY AND $100
SIGN ON BONUS!
Flexible hours!!
Please call: 269-254-2082
Looking for the right
candidate?
Call 269-591-6105
to place your ad in the
Classifieds today!
Niles Daily
Niles Daily Star
Star
Job Opportunities
Now Hiring
Mechanic’s Assistant.
2 years experience
required for truck and
trailer maintenance.
40+ hours/week.
Hourly pay.
Bonus program.
Insurance available.
Paid holidays & vacation.
Please contact Darrell:
574-295-1905
dpritt@superiortireaxle.com
The City of Buchanan has
multiple job openings:
full-time Bookkeeper, City
Attorney services, seasonal
Administrative Assistant (2
positions), seasonal public
works positions, For more
information, go to
www.cityofbuchanan.com
and view Employment
Opportunities under the City
Services tab. Come join our
team and see why we say
“Life if Better Here.”
Sampco is hiring! We are
currently looking for light
assembly and machine
operators for our South Bend
facility. Apply in person to 915
West Ireland Road or email at
careers@sampco.com.
Applications can be found at
https://sampco.com/contact-us/.
Job Opportunities
Bono de Contratación
Una empresa de
extrusión de aluminio en
crecimiento ubicada en
el suroeste de Michigan,
ahora está
contratando para los
siguientes puestos:
•Trabajo General
•Primer, Segundo y
Tercer Turno
Ofrecemos salarios
competitivos, excelentes
EHQH¿FLRVGHVDOXGN
y seguro de vida.
Aplicar en Persona:
201 N.Edwards St.
Cassopolis,MI 49031,
Aplicar en línea en:
www.postledistributors.com
y haga clic en empleo,
o envíe un currículum a
HR@postledistributors.com
GreenMark Equipment
Service Technician
Sodus, MI
Requirements:
•Strong mechanical aptitude
•Small engine repair, diesel
engine, hydrostatic
transmission experience
Excellent work environment,
Competitive Wages & Benefits
(health/dental/vision/401k)
www.greenmarkequipment.com.
Email resume:
dslagh@greenmarkequipment.com
Production Work
Start Immediately
Hourly Rate
Attendance Bonus
2-week Performance Raise
Some Overtime Available
7:00am-3:30pm
Apply in Person.
3001 Tuscany Drive
Elkhart, IN 46514
Orchard Hills Country Club
Golf Course Maintenance
Full-time and Part-time
positions available
Please call:
269-409-8650 to apply.
www.leaderpub.com
CLASSIFIEDS Saturday, April
Saturday, April 24, 2021 •• Page
24, 2021 Page 21
25
Job Opportunities Garage Sales Furniture Lawn & Garden
& Appliances
HOUSE + BARNS Sale
14423 Broceus School Rd
Buchanan, April 23 + 24 .
Friday 9:30 to 3 .
Saturday 10 to 3 Earth Care Lawn Service
NO EARLY BIRDS Antiques. Accepting new customers for
TOOLS .Cub Zero Turn. Jew- Spring Clean Up, Lawn Care,
elry. Hand Hewn WOOD + and Wood Privacy Fence
Beams. Farm Trailers. Pic at Installation. Residential &
Melodys Estate Sale. Commercial. We are
Experienced, Reliable and
Insured. Free estimate
Moving Sale 269-445-7514
1808 PLATT ST
April 23rd and April 24th BILL’S APPLIANCES
8am-5pm
Everything for sale from dishes Used/New, Scratch & Miscellaneous
Production/Assembly
Workers needed.
to furniture and more! Dent, Appliance For Sale
Full time plus hours 1420 S.11th St,Niles
per week. Saturday Raise your hand if you
hours required when
(269)340-5952 The Restoration Station
want your business to New and used items
needed. Hourly,
attendance bonus, make LESS money next Refrigerators Antiques/appliances/decor,
holiday-vacation pay, furniture/tools/toys,
year. Stoves plus more.
401K with company We didn’t think you would. Do you need
match, insurance to successfully market on a tight budget? Washer/Dryers Estate Clean-outs.
Handyman Services
Apply in person
27328 May St
Leader Publications Classified Marketplace
has customizable programs available to fit
Microwaves Online auction @
Edwardsburg, MI any budget. Freezer http://therestorationstation.
Dishwashers myshopify.com
DON’T WAIT! 814 State Street
Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm Cassopolis
Auctions & Sales
Call TODAY
269-591-6105 Saturday:10am-4pm 269-845-5274
Sunday: Closed
Landlord Discounts!!
Merchandise 18’x40’ Pole Barn with 12’
Garage Door. $200
Estate Sales Hunting & Fishing You dismantle & move.
Call (269)697-9542
Antiques &
ESTATE TAG SALE Want to Buy
April 22nd-24th Collectibles Merchandise
9am to 4pm
2755 Weaver Rd, Niles 49120
Home full of BEAUTIFUL $$$$ WANTED
furniture and accessories.
Workshop dream for the guys!
Now Buying STANDING TIMBER
Small Collectibles Large Michigan lumber
Zero-turn Cub Cadet Official
manufacturer seeking
NasCar Pedal car from the & Antiques
race. You do not want to miss Zippos, watches, knifes land owners with 25 or
more mature hardwood
this one. CASH ONLY. See ¿VKOXUHV
pictures at Timeless Treasures Bring us your small trees to sell
Estate Sale Specialists on items or call for viewing Call: (517)566-8061
Facebook.
Call Bill at qualityhardwoodsinc.com
Estate Sale
Bill’s Appliances
574-323-4187
12869 Main Street, Buchanan
April 23rd & 24th
9:00a.m.-5:00p.m.
269-340-5952 Pets & Livestock
Furniture, appliances,
antiques, tools, trains, WANTED:
collectibles and more. Antiques, collectibles,
Cash only. jewelry, watches.
Dr. Saxton
Livestock
TAG SALE LIQUIDATION 574-309-3666 Need to find
April 28th-30th the right employee?
LAGGIS FISH FARM
WE CAN HELP.
9am to 4pm FISH FOR STOCKING
301 S. Bluff Deals & Bargains Most varieties
Berrien Springs 49103
Ponds, Lakes
CASH ONLY Reach the county for less using Leader
Place Your Deals & Publications classifieds. Need a quick
Laggis Fish Farm
Selling your home? Bargain in the quote? Submit your ad online at (269)628-2056 Days
Advertise here and sell it faster. &ODVVL¿HGV1RZ LeaderPub.com. (269)624-6215 Evenings
Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105. Call 269-591-6105.
Page 26 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 www.leaderpub.com Niles Daily Star
Page 22 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS Niles Daily Star
Trucks, SUVs Miscellaneous
Rentals Automobiles
& Vans Services Insurance
Services
Senior Life Insurance
No medical exam.
METAL ROOFING regular and
Apartments Caregiving Guaranteed Issue.
As little as $29/mo.
shingle style, HALF OFF ON
SPECIAL COLORS! Also,
Don’t leave a burden lifetime asphalt shingles
Karl King Holdings,LLC KARE SERVICES for your family! available. Licensed and insured
Compassionate
“Where The City’s
2011 Chevy Malibu LT, Home Care Services 574-310-9718 builders. Quality work for
Finest Call Home” 40 years!
4 Door, Power Windows, (269)684-1984 517-575-3695.
NOW LEASING!!!
•Pet Friendly
Locks, Cruise, Onstar,
Steering Wheel Controls.
(574)292-2900
email: kmkaidan@aol.com
Lawn Care
EMPLOYMENT
•Utilities Included
•Income-Based Rent
Good Runner. www.KAREService.com & Landscaping ATTENTION EMPLOYERS!!!
Price Reduced $5,995 2007 Freightliner Reach across the state with
Apartments for Independent Call: 269-262-6448 Columbia 120 Semi with a Michigan MegaMarket
Seniors(62-up, handicap/
disabled)
sleeper, runs good, no DPF Concrete Work Statewide Classified Network
EMPLOYMENT classified ad.
FOR SALE RU'()ÀXLG0HUFHGHV
515 E.Monroe Street Diesel Engine, 450HP Reach 1.9 Million
South Bend,IN 46601 2017 Kia Forte 4dr households within highly read,
Low mileage! Only $750 approx. 600k miles on a BRADY CONCRETE local home-delivered
574-282-2896 down! $325 a month! No QHZFUDWHGPRWRUZLWK Specializing in: newspapers and shopping
TTY:1-800-743-3333 Interest. No Credit Checks. QHZFDPEHDULQJVQHZ •Flat work of all types guides each week! A 25-word
No Banks to deal with. We WXUERDQGDLUFRPSUHVVRU •Seawalls•Pole Barn Floors ad is just $249.00, $10 for
GRDOORIRXU¿QDQFLQJLQ that offers good fuel •Stamped Concrete additional words per-week!
HFRQRP\VSHHGQHZ •Bobcat Services Buy 3 ads, receive each 4th ad
house. Stop by today for
your new vehicle! FOXWFKJRRGWLUHVGXDO Free Estimates, Insured FAST ACT FREE! Call
1-800-783-0267
Call Scarlett Auto Sales for 100-gallon tanks, air
suspension with new bags
Fast, Dependable Service LANDSCAPING & today!
more information 269-445-3349 or LAWN CARE
269-461-4197 and suspension, leather 269-591-0100 EMPLOYMENT-DRIVERS
seats, air, power windows, On Google/Facebook EXP’D CLASS A
We Have Interstate Batteries! •Retaining Walls •Mowing
SRZHUORFNVORDGHG REGIONAL & OTR *$5000
JRRGFRQGLWLRQ •Bobcat Service SIGN-ON AVG WK $1200+
FOR SALE PRICED REDUCED!! Construction •Tree Service •Excavation HEALTH INS (plus) 401K
2018 Kia Forte 4dr $16,995 •Junk Removal MATCHING GREAT HOME
Low mileage! Only $750 PHONE CALLS ONLY, •Land Clearing •Hauling TIME
down! $325 a month! No Michiana Masonry •Dumpster Rentals 800-548-9783
NO TEXT OR
Interest. No Credit Checks. PLEASE CALL GREG & Construction •Brush Removal
No Banks to deal with. We All your Masonry needs! www.amexpressinc.com
(269)262-6448 •Mulch & Rock Installation (*new tanker drivers)
GRDOORIRXU¿QDQFLQJLQ Chimney Cleaning •Structure Demolition
house. Stop by today for
your new vehicle!
Selling your home?
Insured & Bonded
Senior Discounts Call:269-357-5956 MATTRESSES
Adjustable Bed Brand New with
Call Scarlett Auto Sales
Advertise here and sell it faster.
269-362-1566 www.fastactlandscaping.com Imcomfort gel
Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105.
for more information memory foam mattress. Retail
269-461-4197 Spring Clean Ups Cost $3,995.00, sacrifice for
$875.00. Call for showing or
We Have Interstate Batteries! Drywall Services Schedule spring clean delivery:
ups, mowing, pruning 989-615-2951.
2006 Chevy Van Express. and all your yard
Good condition. $6,000 or best MEDICAL
offer. Phone 269-449-0865, landscaping needs! VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS!
Call: 269-362-2735 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL
$99.00 FREE Shipping! 100%
Motorcycles & Miscellaneous
guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW!
888-835-7273
ATV’s 1988 Chevy K-1500 Services Hablamos Espanol
Truck, 4x4, Orange with MISCELLANEOUS
1999 Kawasaki Voyager 12 Snowplow, Tilt, Air, AUCTIONS Pond/Lake Weed Removal
Touring Bike New Carlisle Area. Sliding Rear Window, Tow Weekly Online Auctions - Tools (The #1 alternative to
Good condition. 80k road miles. Package, Excellent Tires Firearms, Sporting Goods, chemicals.) Performs C.P.R.
¿UP&DOO Tools, Lawn & Garden, Cuts-Pulls-Rakes. Made in
PRICE REDUCED $2,495 Antiques & Collectibles! Go to:
RU Call Greg: 269-262-6448 Michigan.
www.Bid.SherwoodAuctionSer- 989-529-3992.

Transportation Raise your hand if you

want your business to
make LESS money next
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CLASSIFIEDS Saturday, April
Pressure Washing Public Notices
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
AUCTION
Niles Storage, 2457 Yankee St.
Niles, MI. 49120
May 1, 2021 @ 9:00 a.m.
Owner’s lien - overdue rents
Unit Contents: Personal &
household Items
Unit # Name:
25 Derek Williams
50 & 51 Roenika Anderson
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STORAGE AUCTION
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Reach the county for less using Leader
Publications classifieds. Need a quick Synopsis of the Minutes
of the Ontwa Township
quote? Submit your ad online at
LeaderPub.com. Board of Trustees
Monday April 12, 2021
Call 269-591-6105.
At the present time Board of
Trustees meetings are being
Roofing and Guttering conducted via Zoom. The Pub-
lic is invited. See the website,
www.ontwatwp.org for informa-
tion each month.
Bill’s Roof Repair
Residential & Commercial
The regular meeting of the Ont-
•Repairs•New Roofs wa Township Board of Trustees
•Shingles•Flat Roofs
was called to order at 7:00pm
•Metal/Rubber•Flashing ZLWKDSOHGJHWRWKHÀDJ
•Chimney Repairs
Roll call showed Supervisor
•Vent Pipes•Gutters•Sidings Marchetti, Clerk VanBelle, Trea-
Lifetime Warranty on All surer Davis-Leist, Trustees
Labor Performed Kozinski, Christensen, Stuts-
Free Estimates man, and Bolock present.
Approval of Agenda
Call Us Now!!
269-591-5700 Public Comment: No public
comment.
Visit us at:
Approval of Consent Agenda
billsroofrepair.com Commissioners Report: Com-
and Facebook!!
missioner Marchetti
Committee Board Reports: Zon-
ing, Ambulance, Wastewater,
Police, Roads and Planning
Commissions
Old Business: No old business
New Business: Clean Earth
Wastewater, 2021 Road pro-
posal, Budgets for review
Next regular Township Board
meeting will be May 10th , Am-
bulance Board April 14th, Po-
lice Board cancelled for May,
FCI BUILDING Wastewater Board April 28th,
Shingle & Metal Roofing Planning Commission May 8th.
Home & Roof Maintenance
Siding & Gutters Minutes of Board of Trustee
Windows & Doors meetings may be found on the
General Construction Township website: www.ont-
269-782-7310 watwp.org
fcibuilding@yahoo.com
Respectfully submitted by Tina
VanBelle, Ontwa Township
Clerk
Septic Tank Service Approved for Publication by Su-
pervisor Jerry Marchetti
Deer Path Excavating
Niles Daily Star:
Septic Repair and all other Apr. 24, 2021
Excavating needs!! SYNOPSIS
Please Call: 269-208-5180
Saturday, April 24, 2021 •• Page
24, 2021
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
Howard Township
Cass County, Michigan
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting Synopsis
April 20, 2021
Supervisor Kasprzak called the
meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. at
the Township Business Office,
1345 Barron Lake Road, Niles.
The Pledge to the Flag was
recited. Board members pres-
ent: Kasprzak, Daly, Johnson,
Gordon, Conover and Hurlbutt.
Wozniak was absent
Board Action
Approved Meeting Agenda.
Approved the March 16th regu-
lar meeting minutes
Approved the financial report
with an ending balance on April
20, 2021 of $772,610.69, in-
cluding a CD.
Approved the payment of bills
through April 20, 2021
Approved the monthly depart-
mental reports
Information DEA drug take
back on April 24th from 10a-2p
at Howard Twp Hall. Clean up
Day May 15th 8:30a-11a, re-
quires voucher.
Approved Pletcher parcel split
for 14-020-024-002-03
Approved Budget amendment
for General Fund
Approved Resignation of Cathy
Stafford from ZBA and Appoint-
ment of Kevin Kunst to ZBA
Approved The reclassification
of Bill Kasprzak and Chris Aus-
tin to non-fire fighter positions at
Howard Twp Fire.
Adjourn the meeting at 7:40
p.m.
Niles Daily Star:
Apr. 24, 2021
SYNOPSIS
Legal Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF MICHIGAN
PROBATE COURT
COUNTY OF BERRIEN
FILE NO. 2021-0287-DE-M
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
DECEDENT’S ESTATE
ESTATE OF DONNA LOU
DRAPER, deceased
DATE OF BIRTH 01/17/1938
TO ALL CREDITORS*:
NOTICE TO CREDITORS:
The decedent, Donna Lou
Draper, died 06/12/2020.
Creditors of the decedent are
notified that all claims against
the estate will be forever
barred unless presented to
Daniel Lee Draper, Personal
Representative, or to both the
probate court at 1802 Cor-
Page 23
27
Legal Notices
Indiana 46617 and the per-
sonal representative within
4 months after the date of
the publication of this notice.
Thomas M. Walz, Attorney
509 W. Washington Street
South Bend, Indiana 46601
Daniel Lee Draper, Personal
representative
1802 Corby Boulevard
South Bend, Indiana 46617
Niles Daily Star: Apr. 24, 2021
2021-0287-DE-M
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF MICHIGAN
PROBATE COURT
COUNTY OF CASS
FILE NO. 2021-081-DE
PUBLICATION OF NOTICE
OF HEARING
In the matter of Kelly Logan
Bennett , deceased
TO ALL INTERESTED PER-
SONS including: whose ad-
dress(es) is/are unknown and
whose interest in the matter
may be barred or affected by
the following:
TAKE NOTICE: A hearing
will be held on May 17, 2021
at 9:10 a.m. at Cass County
Probate Court- Via ZOOM
before Judge Susan L. Do-
brich P32783 for the following
purpose: (a)for an Order de-
termining heirs and that the
decedent died intestate; (b)
formal appointment of Zel-
phia Quick as Personal Rep-
resentative; (c) the Personal
Representative be appointed
without bond; (d) and that
further estate proceedings be
informal.
This hearing will be conduct-
ed via Zoom. Contact the
Cass County Probate Court
at (269) 445-4454 for access.
Thomas D. Swisher P37931
213 Pennsylvania Ave., P.O.
Box 115
Dowagiac, MI 49047
(269) 783-1609
Zelphia Quick
312 Teri St
South Bend, IN 46614
(574) 387-7346
Niles Daily Star:
Apr. 24, 2021
EST/BENNETT, K.
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Page 28 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 www.leaderpub.com Niles Daily Star
Page 24 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS Niles Daily Star

PUBLIC NOTICE Legal Notices

STATE OF MICHIGAN PUBIC NOTICE
BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION STATE OF MICHIGAN
NOTICE OF HEARING PROBATE COURT
COUNTY OF BERRIEN
FOR THE ELECTRIC CUSTOMERS OF INDIANA MICHIGAN POWER COMPANY FILE NO. 2021-0300-DE-D

CASE NO. U-20530 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

DECEDENT’S ESTATE B
• Indiana Michigan Power Company requests Michigan Public Service Commission’s approval for reconciliation of its power supply cost recovery plan s
Estate of Donald Allen Ot-
(Case No. U-20529) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020. well, Deceased. Date of birth
12/16/1966
• The information below describes how a person may participate in this case.
• You may call or write Indiana Michigan Power Company, Benton Harbor Service Center, 2425 Meadowbrook Rd., Benton Harbor, MI 49022, 517-367-1242 for TO ALL CEDITORS and IN-
p
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• A pre-hearing will be held:
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that
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BEFORE: Administrative Law Judge Dennis Mack Heirs, Devisees & Interested
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LOCATION: Video/Teleconferencing for a hearing June 22, 2021
PARTICIPATION: Any interested person may participate. Persons needing any assistance to participate should at 9:30 a.m. via ZOOM be- C
fore the Hon. Jennifer L. e
contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at (517) 284-8090, or by email at Smith. This will be a remote
mpscedockets@michigan.gov in advance of the hearing. Courtroom proceeding using
p
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ipate in the proceeding you u
The Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) will hold a pre-hearing to consider Indiana Michigan Power Company’s (I&M) March 31, 2021 must contact the Probate
application requesting the Commission to approve: 1) the reconciliation of its Power Supply Cost Recovery (PSCR) plan for the twelve-month period Court at 1-269-983-7111, ext. C
ended December 31, 2020; 2) the authorization for I&M to roll-in the net actual power supply cost under-recovery from customers consisting of principal 8365, to request instructions C
on how to participate.
and interest of $5,386,708; and 3) I&M for other and additional relief.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS: g
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284-8090 or by email at: mpscedockets@michigan.gov. unless presented to Marilyn
Joy Shetterly, personal repre-
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pany’s attorney, Richard J. Aaron, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 C
and the personal represen- C
tative within 4 months after A
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process to participate in the hearing. notice. b
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04/21/2021
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written statement in this docket. The written statement may be mailed or emailed and should reference Case No. U-20530. Statements may be emailed William R. Landgraf 2
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Box 159
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participate in a case, you may contact the Commission at the above address or by telephone at (517) 284-8090. Marilyn Joy Shetterly
a
16454 Rynearson Road fi
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for further information on adjournment should be directed to (517) 284-8130. (269) 470-9754
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Niles Daily Star
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30004, Lansing, Michigan 48909, for more information. the right employee? i

WE CAN HELP.
T
Jurisdiction is pursuant to 1909 PA 106, as amended, MCL 460.551 et seq.; 1919 PA 419, as amended, MCL 460.54 et e
seq.; 1939 PA 3, as amended, MCL 460.1 et seq.; 1969 PA 306, as amended, MCL 24.201 et seq.; 1982 PA 304, as
DPHQGHG0&/MHWVHTDQG3DUWV RIWKH0LFKLJDQ2I¿FHRI$GPLQLVWUDWLYH+HDULQJVDQG5XOHV0LFK Reach the county for less using Leader
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quote? Submit your ad online at f
LeaderPub.com. F
Call 269-591-6105. p
Niles Daily Star EDWARDSBURG ARGUS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 25
Michigan Supreme Court rules
in Cass County Treasurer’s favor
By SARAH CULTON
sarah.culton@leaderpub.com
CASSOPOLIS — The Michigan Su-
preme Court has ruled in favor of
the Cass County Treasurer’s Office in
a lawsuit that has been ongoing for
the better part of a decade.
Last month, the Michigan Su-
preme Court ruled that the Cass
County Treasurer’s Office had giv-
en proper notice to the owners of a
property on Crooked Creek Road in
Cassopolis of foreclosure. The ruling
upheld previous rulings made by
Cass County Court and the Court of
Claims.
“I know the Cass County Treasurer
goes above and beyond for notices,
and this just affirms that,” said cur-
rent Cass County Treasurer Hope
Anderson. “We go above and beyond
for notice of delinquent taxes.”
The lawsuit was first filed in 2014
by 2 Crooked Creek LLC and Russian
Ferro Alloys Inc against the Cass
County Treasurer after the Crooked
Creek house was foreclosed upon.
According to a summary released
by the Michigan Supreme Court, in
2010, 2CC purchased the proper-
ty for development in Cass County.
2CC failed to pay the 2011 real prop-
erty taxes and, in 2013, forfeited the
property to the county. From January
through May 2013, the defendant’s
agent, Title Check LLC, mailed via
first-class and certified mail a series
of notices to the address listed in the
deed. These notices apprised 2CC of
the unpaid property taxes, forfei-
ture and possibility of foreclosure.
The certified mail was returned as
“Unclaimed — Unable to Forward,”
but the first-class mail was not re-
turned. Meanwhile, 2CC construct-
ed a home on the property, obtain-
ing a mortgage for the construction.
Title Check continued to mail notic-
es into 2014.
A show-cause hearing was host-
ed in January 2014, and a judicial
foreclosure hearing was hosted in
February 2014. No one from 2CC ap-
peared at either hearing. At the ju-
Pictured is a home that has been at the center of a county lawsuit since
2014. The house was sold at auction in 2019, and construction is currently
being done on the property. (Leader photo/SARAH CULTON)
dicial foreclosure hearing, Cass Cir-
cuit Court Judge Michael E. Dodge
entered a judgment of foreclosure.
In July 2014, 2CC moved to set
aside the foreclosure judgment
on due-process grounds. Howev-
er, these efforts failed because the
circuit court concluded that the
defendant’s combined efforts of
mailing, posting and publishing no-
tice provided 2CC with notice suf-
ficient to satisfy the requirements
of due process. 2CC then appealed
the decision.
At the same time 2CC moved to
set aside the foreclosure judgment,
it filed a separate action in the Court
of Claims for monetary damages, al-
leging that it had not received any
notice. The Court of Claims denied
the motion and hosted a bench tri-
al. At the close of 2CC’s proofs, the
court granted an involuntary dis-
missal in favor of the Cass County
Treasurer’s Office.
The case was then appealed to
the Michigan Supreme Court, which
ruled in Cass County’s favor last
month, writing that 2CC had re-
ceived “constitutionally adequate”
notice of proceedings.
“This is the best possible decision
we could have expected because we
have prevailed in all courts,” Ander-
son said.
The lawsuit predates Anderson’s
tenure as treasurer, as she took the
position in 2018 following the death
of previous treasurer Linda Pruett.
Anderson said her involvement with
the property began in 2019, as it be-
came the first house she sold at auc-
tion as treasurer. The property sold
for $1.5 million, which was used to
pay delinquent taxes on the prop-
erty and cover legal fees related to
the case. So far, Anderson estimated
the lawsuit had generated between
$500,000 and $750,000 in legal fees.
“The great news is that [the prop-
erty] is back on the tax roll, and just
by driving by, you can see it is being
maintained,” Anderson said. “Hous-
es aren’t meant to be empty that
long. It’s for the good of the commu-
nity that it is back on the tax roll and
is looking great.”
There is currently still a suit pend-
ing regarding the property in U.S.
District Court, but Anderson ex-
pects that the decision will be de-
ferred back to the state now that the
Michigan Supreme Court has made
a ruling.
“Every court has ruled in our favor,
and we don’t expect that to change,
but we are still incurring expenses,”
Anderson said.
Cass County millages
on ballot for May 4
SUBMITTED
CASS COUNTY — Three Cass County millages will be
on the ballot May 4 for a special election. According to
Cass County Clerk Monica McMichael, all posts will be
open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the day of the election.
Edwardsburg School District voters residing in Howard
Township will vote at Milton Township Hall. Below are
the ballots proposal and language in their entirety:
• Jefferson Township Millage Proposition
“Shall the Township of Jefferson, Cass County, Michi-
gan, levy up to 1.0 (one mill) which is equal to $1.00 for
each $1,000.00 of taxable valuation of real and personal
property subject to taxation? Said millage will be an ex-
tra-voted millage to be used for the maintenance, upkeep,
repair, and construction of roads within Jefferson Town-
ship so designated by the Jefferson Township Board. Said
millage, if approved by the electors of Jefferson Township,
will be levied for a period of two years, beginning with
the year 2021 and ending with the levy in the year 2022.
Based on the current valuation, it is estimated that the
levy will generate approximately $132,745.71 in the first
year of the levy.”
• Porter Township Proposal to Recapture Township
Millage Rollback
“Shall the authorized Porter Township millage, estab-
lished at 1 mills ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) and
reduced to 0.6775 mills ($0.6775 per $1,000 of taxable
value), by the required millage rollback, be increased in
an amount not to exceed the original 1 mill ($1.00 per
$1,000 of taxable value) to restore the full amount of the
original authorized amount to be used for all Township
purposes authorized by law; and shall the Township levy
such new additional millage? The estimate of the revenue
the Township will collect if the millage is authorized and
levied by the Township in the 2021 calendar year is ap-
proximately $260,792, which would be an approximate
increase of $84,105 over the total collected as a result of
the millage rollback. “
• Edwardsburg Public Schools Operating Millage
Renewal Proposal
“This proposal will allow the school district to continue
to levy the statutory rate of not to exceed 18 mills on all
property, except principal residence and other property
exempted by law, required for the school district to re-
ceive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance.
Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may
be assessed against all property, except principal resi-
dence and other property exempted by law, in Edwards-
burg Public Schools, Cass County, Michigan, be increased
by 18 mills ($18.00 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation)
for the year 2021 to provide funds for operating purposes;
the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect
if the millage is approved and levied in 2021 is approx-
imately $2,195,537 (this is a renewal of millage that ex-
pired with the 2020 tax levy)?”
Page 26 • Saturday, April 24, 2021 EDWARDSBURG ARGUS Niles Daily Star

All in bloom
By SARAH CULTON
sarah.culton@leaderpub.com
EDWARDSBURG — A project more
than a year in the making is coming full
bloom in Edwardsburg.
Last year, Edwardsburg received a
$25,000 matching grant from America in
Bloom, which partnered with Canadian
National Railway to add landscaping to
a 1,700-foot stretch of railroad tracks on
M-62 from US-12 to Elkhart Road. Work-
ing with Tobin Landscape, located in
Niles, the project, called the All Aboard
project, will add trees, flowers and sig-
nage to the area.
Now, with the matching goal exceeded
and work on the project coming to an
end, area leaders will be hosting a cele-
bratory event at 3 p.m. May 19 at Gunn
Park, located on Lake Street in Edwards-
burg. The event is free and open to the
public.
“It took a while to get everything in or-
der, but everything is coming together,”
Edwardsburg landscaping
project to be celebrated May 19
A celebration event for Edwards-
burg’s All Aboard project will be
hosted May 19. Pictured are Jerry
and Roseann Marchetti. (Leader file
photo)
said Roseann Marchetti, an organizer
with the project.
“It’s a relief to be near the finish line,”
added Jerry Marchetti, Ontwa Township
supervisor and Roseann’s husband. “[The
landscaped area] is kind of the front door
to the village, and I think it will add a lot.”
Not only do the Marchettis believe the
All Aboard project will add visual inter-
est to the Edwardsburg/Ontwa Town-
ship area, but they hope it will attract
more visitors and development and im-
prove residents’ quality of life.
“It’s exciting,” Roseann said. “We be-
lieve that this is for our future.”
Following the May 19 event, Roseann
said Edwardsburg has more plans in
store related to the All Aboard project.
From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 8, an art fair
will be hosted at the American Legion.
“We are working on that, and we are
working on some other stuff, as well,” she
said.
Both Roseann and Jerry said they
are excited about the coming events
and hope that it can be something for
the village and the township to look
forward to.
Roseann said she would encourage
anyone to attend the May 19 celebration
for the All Aboard project.
“So many events have been canceled
in the last year,” she said. “We want peo-
ple to come out and celebrate.”

NEWS IN BRIEF
Edwardsburg church collecting donations
for southwest Michigan veterans
EDWARDSBURG — The Edwardsburg Presbyterian
Church is asking the community to support southwest
Michigan veterans.
The church is currently hosting a Hero Haul to benefit area
veterans. For the event, the church is collecting monetary
donations to be donated to the Battle Creek VA Medical
Center. The center will then use donations to purchase
personal care items veterans need.
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center serves 22 southwest
Michigan counties and currently serves more than 42,000
veterans with both in-patient and out-patient care. That
care includes mental health care and Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder treatment, which the center reports affects 15 to 20
percent of veterans.
Jerry Tavernier, Edwardsburg Presbyterian Church Hero
Haul coordinator, said the church has been donating to the
center for several years. This year, he hopes to increase the
community’s impact on the Hero Haul.
Donations will be accepted through May 28. Residents
can make checks out to the Presbyterian Church and
write in the memo line “Hero Haul” and mail to P.O. Box 4,
Edwardsburg MI 49112. “Thank you for your consideration
of our request as we honor the brave men and women that
have selflessly protected our freedoms,” Tavernier said.
For more information, contact Tavernier at (269) 663-
6232 or jetav@frontier.com.
South Bend man injured in
Edwardsburg car vs. train accident
EDWARDSBURG — A South Bend man was
transported to the hospital Wednesday after being
struck by a train in Edwardsburg.
At 6:44 p.m. Thursday, officers of the Ontwa Township
Edwardsburg Police Department were dispatched to the
railroad crossing on Redfield Street east of Conrad Road
for a car vs train accident.
Upon arrival on scene, officers performed medical
assistance, including the administration of narcan.
Witnesses stated that the cross arms were down, and
lights were working, when a white Chevrolet Cruz
decided to go around the arms and was struck by a
southbound CN train. The driver, Justin Webb, 33, of
South Bend, was trapped inside the vehicle.
The Edwardsburg Fire Department extricated Webb
from his vehicle, and he was transported to South Bend
Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained
in the crash. Webb was not wearing his seatbelt, and
airbags were deployed. Police officers reported that it
is believed that alcohol and drugs were a contributing
factor.
The crash remains under investigation.
The Ontwa Township Edwardsburg Police Department
was assisted on scene by Edwardsburg Fire Department,
Edwardsburg Ambulance Service, Cass County Sheriff ’s
Office and Cass County Central Dispatch.
 Niles Daily Star EDWARDSBURG ARGUS Saturday, April 24, 2021 • Page 27

Just say ‘no’

-

-
CASS Coalition launches first
n
n anti-vaping campaign
.
r

CASS Coalition Coordinator E.J. McAndrew poses with a printout of the organization’s
new anti-vaping mailer. The mailer, which is part of a new campaign, will be sent to
yCass County households next month. (Leader photo/SARAH CULTON)
s
rBy SARAH CULTON and permanent lowering of impulse control,
ksarah.culton@leaderpub.com according to the Surgeon General.
According to a 2020 joint report from the
e CASSOPOLIS — Next month, one Cass Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
County organization is taking a stand against and the Food and Drug Administration, 19.6
vaping. percent of all high school students and 4.7
d The CASS Coalition — a task force created percent of all middle school students report-
-by Woodlands Behavioral Health devoted to ed e-cigarette use. Of those users, 38.9 percent
addressing alcohol, tobacco and other drug of high schoolers and 20 percent of middle
issues in the area — has teamed up with Unit- schoolers reported frequent use, while 22.5
ed Way of Southwest Michigan and Southwest percent of high school users and 9.4 percent of
Michigan Behavioral Health to launch a new middle school users reported daily use.
anti-vaping campaign. Starting next month, While McAndrew said she does not have
information cards will be sent out to homes specific numbers for vaping use in Cass Coun-
in Cass County with facts about the harmful ty, she knows it is hitting Cass County youth
effects of vaping, and the CASS Coalition will hard.
be spreading information on its social media “I know that in the schools, it is a constant
platforms. problem for the principals and the resource of-
“There is this belief that vaping is safe, es- ficers,” she said. “We know we have a problem.
pecially when people compare it to cigarette There is a decreased perceived risk among
smoking,” said CASS Coalition Coordinator teenagers, and that is always a precursor to
E.J. McAndrew. “There are a lot of things that use.”
cigarettes have that vapes do not, but on the While McAndrew said she knows the CASS
other hand, there are a lot of things in vapes Coalition’s campaign will not be able to curb
that are not in cigarettes. There are up to 8,000 vaping use among children or adults altogeth-
chemicals found in vaping products. In all our er, she hopes it will correct some of the misin-
research, the one thing we have found is that formation surrounding vaping.
there is nothing safe about vaping.” “People don’t know the risks,” she said. “They
The effects of vaping include: hear what they hear, and they don’t have time
• Lung damage can be caused by chemicals to research every little thing they hear — no
such as acrolein, diacetyl and formaldehyde, one does. We are providing them with straight
which is a carcinogen, according to the Ameri- facts, complete with top-notch sources. We
can Lung Association. want to get this information out to parents,
• According to the American College of Car- caregivers and adults who think that by using
diology, among people with no other known a vape, they are in some way or form making
cardiovascular risk factors, people who vaped a safer choice. It is still damaging your lungs.”
were 34 percent more likely to have a heart at- If the campaign can make a difference in just
tack, 25 percent more likely to have coronary a few people’s lives, McAndrew said it would be
artery disease and 55 percent more likely to worth it.
have depression or anxiety. “We want to raise general awareness,” she
• In teens and young adults, vaping use can said. “Ideally, this will lead to stronger policies
lead to nicotine addiction, mood disorders regarding use and sales.”
 Edwardsburg Argus

Edwardsburg celebrating
landscaping project P26

Just say ‘no’

CASS Coalition launches first
anti-vaping campaign

Drugs and/or alcohol suspected at

play in car vs. train collision P26