Niles Daily Star

SATURDAY, DEC. 19, 2020 SERVING NILES, BUCHANAN AND EDWARDSBURG

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Businesses fight back against shutdowns P4

‘HOPE ON THE
Eddies’ Priebe excited for championship P16

OBITUARIES
HORIZON’
Health department ALSO INSIDE
Rodney Rutowske, of Niles
Ronald Geer, of Niles
Orville W. Perkins
provides clarity on Brandywine graduate contributed to
James Allen Bracken, of Niles vaccine distribution development of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
Dorothy L. Hanson, of Buchanan
Kelly Bennett, of Niles
 ‘HOPE
Page 2 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 FOCUS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
HORIZON’
Berrien County health officials discuss new vaccine, declining trend in COVID numbers
By AMBROSIA NELDON
ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com
BERRIEN COUNTY — Wednesday eve-
ning, a line down a hall at Spectrum Health
Lakeland in St. Joseph was filled with
medical personnel, some overcome with
emotions as they wiped tears from their
faces. The employees, many of whom have
spent the last nine months caring for pa-
tients fighting the novel coronavirus, were
among the first in the country to receive
the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
During a weekly Facebook Live event
Thursday morning, Berrien County Health
Department officials Gillian Conrad and
Nicki Britten, as well as Spectrum Health
Lakeland Chief Strategy Officer Loren
Hamel, shared an update about the vac-
cine and COVID numbers in the county.
“There has been a bit of a downward
trend in the number of confirmed cases
in the last couple of weeks,” Britten said.
“Right now, we’re seeing about 100 new
cases per day on average, whereas two
weeks ago we were closer to 150, 140 cases
per day, with our peak at about 165.”
ON THE
Britten said that while COVID cases
have decreased, so too have the amount of
COVID-19 tests being taken, so it is diffi-
cult to tell whether the decrease in cases
should be attributed to a true decline of
transmission, or if the decrease in testing
is leading to a decrease in positive results.
Perhaps a better indicator of the virus’
current impact in Berrien County, Britten
said the amount of people admitted to the
hospital with the virus remains steady.
“We had a peak COVID inpatient census
of 85,” Hamel said. “We had a number of
days in the mid-70s. We’ve run for a couple
of weeks now in the mid- to high-60s. That
has been a leveling off trend.”
Thursday, the number of patients admit-
ted to Spectrum Lakeland with COVID-19
was in the mid-50s, Hamel said.
“The staff are working very hard to take
care of not only everybody with COVID,
but everybody else who’s sick,” he added.
“Our facility has been full, but it is very
encouraging to see that stable trend, and
maybe even some early indications that it’s
not going to grow and may even decline a Medical personnel at Spectrum Health Lakeland in St. Joseph began receiving the
bit.” first dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine Wednesday evening. (Submitted photo)
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com FOCUS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 3

Part of the solution

By AMBROSIA NELDON
ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com
PORTAGE, Mich. — As
semitrucks carrying the first ap-
proved COVID-19 vaccine rolled
out of Pfizer’s parking lot in Por-
tage, Michigan earlier this week,
millions of Americans took a
collective breath of relief. Among
them was one Brandywine grad-
uate whose work contributed to
the vaccine’s development.
Daniel Elrod, a 2006 graduate
of Brandywine High School, is the
Senior Quality Operations Spe-
cialist — a part of the Drug Prod-
uct Cleaning Validation Group —
at Pfizer. Though he has been on
paternity leave since his youngest
daughter was born in November,
Elrod spent much of the year
working alongside Pfizer em-
ployees developing the vaccine as
part of Operation Warp Speed.
When Pfizer’s vaccine was ap- genetic material into those who
Brandywine graduate contributed to
development of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
ly produced. In his time at Brandywine,
proved and began being distrib- receive it. The body’s immune sys- “Simply put, the Cleaning Val- Elrod — better known as “DJ”
uted last weekend, Elrod and his tem recognizes the injection as a idation Group prevented the among classmates — was a
teammates were full of emotions. foreign substance and begins to cross contamination during the four-sport varsity athlete. He
“I felt a number of attack it, the same way manufacturing process of the played basketball, baseball,
feelings: excitement, it would a live virus. vaccine to ensure the highest football and soccer, and main-
pride and honor to Elrod, who has possible product quality and tained a 3.75 GPA. After leav-
have contributed to worked at Pfizer since patient safety,” he said. ing Brandywine, he studied at
the manufacturing of September 2012, is part Like nearly every business Southwestern Michigan College
the vaccine, as well as a of the team that pre- across the globe, Pfizer has for two years before transferring
sense of relief in know- vents cross contamina- adapted its protocols and to Western Michigan University
ing that help is on its tion between products work environment to prevent in Kalamazoo.
way and that all our and equipment. the spread of COVID-19 across Following a lifelong love of sci-
hard work has paid off,” “I am the liaison be- the company, which employs ence, Elrod ultimately earned a
he said. Daniel Elrod tween Cleaning Valida- thousands in the Portage plant bachelor of science in biomedical
Developed in un- tion and the Validation alone. science with a minor in chemistry.
der a year, medical experts have Manager as well as other depart- “It has been busy with an “Even from a young age, I
marveled at Pfizer’s ability to so ments throughout Pfizer,” Elrod increased workload, however knew I wanted a career con-
rapidly develop a vaccine that is said. it is business as usual,” Elrod nected to science,” he said.
deemed both effective and safe, He also oversees and trains said. “Pfizer has implemented “That, plus my passion for help-
and was created using a method outside contract workers who temperature screenings, mask ing others has led me to a career
unlike any vaccine before it. hope to later become employed wearing and social distancing in the pharmaceutical industry
Unlike the flu vaccine, which by Pfizer. is enforced in addition to the where I am able to assist in cre-
uses an active or weakened infec- Elrod’s team was responsible rigorous safety precautions that ating life changing medicines
tion, the COVID vaccine injects for ensuring the vaccine was safe- are in place on a daily basis.” every day.”

For the first time in several weeks, the pan-
elists shared optimism regarding the trajectory
of the virus, as medical officials switch from
a defensive strategy — treating patients who
have already contracted COVID-19 — to a more
offensive approach — preventing the spread of
the virus with the use of a vaccine.
How does the vaccine work?
Just two days after Pfizer’s COVID-19 vac-
cine was officially approved, employees at both
Spectrum hospitals in Berrien County began
receiving the first doses of the vaccine. As ex-
citement — and concern — about the vaccine
spread throughout the community, Hamel and
the health department worked to address fre-
quently asked questions.
“If I was a singer, I might give you a strain of
the Hallelujah Chorus,” Hamel joked Thursday.
He explained that the Pfizer vaccine, which is
being manufactured just an hour north of Niles
in Portage, Michigan, was created using a meth-
od never used before for vaccines.
“The Pfizer vaccine has a tiny snippet of RNA
— that’s genetic material — that replicates the
RNA in the virus,” he said.
Hamel said unlike vaccines most people are
accustomed to, the Pfizer vaccine is not a live
virus, nor is it an attenuated virus, meaning that
it is not a virus that has been made weaker and
then injected into patients.
“When your immune system sees [the vac-
cine], it says, ‘that doesn’t belong. Let’s make an
antibody,’” Hamel said. “The antibody of course
is what protects you if you are exposed. It’s an
elegant way to stimulate your own immune re-
sponse in a natural way to get rid of infection,
should the virus be transmitted to you.”
Before its approval, the Pfizer vaccine, which
is given in two doses about three weeks apart,
was studied and tested on 40,000 people. Be-
cause the vaccine is not a live virus, those who
receive it are unlikely to have many side effects,
though the second dose may cause body aches,
Hamel said.
“We don’t expect serious long-term side ef-
fects because it’s not an infection,” he said.
Who gets the vaccine, and when?
In the first wave of Pfizer vaccines distributed
this week, Spectrum Health Lakeland facilities
in Niles received just less than 1,000 doses.
“We’ve set priorities based on where you
work and the exposure risk of where you work,”
Hamel explained.
He said that because the second vaccine
could cause symptoms of fever and body aches,
hospital officials have strategically planned co-
horts with only a few employees from each de-
partment at a time.
“We anticipate being able to get through our
highest risk associates within the first several
weeks,” he said.
Britten said the health department was not
allotted any of the Pfizer vaccine, but hopes to
receive the Moderna vaccine, which is antici-
pated to be approved within the week.
“[Pfizer vaccines] have gone to very few
health departments because health depart-
ments generally don’t have the freezer capacity
for an ultra-cold storage, so the way the state
has allocated vaccine is to prioritize the facil-
ities that have the ultra-cold storage to receive
the Pfizer vaccine,” she said. “We expect to po-
tentially receive the Moderna vaccine early next
week in those first shipments. We have been
told that the allocations to the state of Michigan
for the Moderna vaccine in the first week that it
is available, which again we expect that would
be double the amount of the Pfizer vaccine that
was allocated to Michigan.”
The highest priority recipients for the Berrien
County Health Department include vaccina-
tors, emergency services personnel and resi-
dents of long-term care facilities.
Subsequent Berrien County residents are
broken into three priority groups, outlined on
the health department’s website. After medi-
cal personnel and long-term care facilities, the
priority will be to vaccinate workers in “essen-
tial and critical industries.” This includes K-12
school and childcare staff, and many of the em-
ployees who were deemed “essential” and per-
mitted to work during initial stay-home orders
that began in March.
After these individuals are vaccinated, people
at high-risk for severe COVID-19 illness, as well
as individuals 65 years and older, will begin re-
ceiving the vaccine.
Though it will take several months and mil-
lions of vaccines to reach mass immunity, health
department officials said the vaccine is the first
step in turning the corner on the virus that has
claimed more than 300,000 lives across the U.S.
“I’m sure going to take one when it’s my turn.
I hope you will take one when it’s your turn,”
Hamel said. “The way to get over this together is
to be sure that we all have immunity.”
Page 4 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 BUSINESS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

BUSINESSES
FIGHT BACK
Struggling restaurant, venue owners come together
to keep doors open during expansive shutdowns
By CHRISTINA CLARK and Tammy Clark, executive director
christina.clark@leaderpub.com of Stand Up Michigan, were execut-
ing on restaurants opening their din-
NILES — Throughout the past ing room against the orders. Michi-
week, restaurant and small business gan State Representative for the 78th
owners have been navigating the ex- district Brad Paquette (R) joined
tension of yet another shutdown to them at Rise ’n’ Shine Café.
indoor dining, as part of an epidem- “Everybody has families. Every-
ic order from the Michigan Depart- body has kids. It’s Christmas. They
ment of Health and Human Services. have bills to pay,” Robison said of her
The most recent, epidemic order 10 employees.

“
began on Nov. 15. On Saturday morn-
From there, it was ing, there was a con-
slated to last three Everybody stant line during
weeks an effort to has families. breakfast hours in the
level off and decline entrance of people
COVID-19 cases. Everybody waiting to be seated.
When the change was has kids. It’s “Most of these peo-
minimal, the MDHHS ple are our regulars,” ABOVE: A gathering of protestors
extended the order by Christmas. They Robison said. arrived after 10 a.m. Thursday
12 more days with a have bills to pay.” Robison and her morning to show support to
new end date of Dec. husband, Bill, pur- Harvest Café and other small
20. chased the restaurant businesses struggling to survive
Frustrated by the Angel Robinson, about a year and nine
financially through COVID-19
extension, and uncer- owner, Rise ‘n’ months ago.
pandemic orders. LEFT: Tammy
tainty for their busi- Shine Cafe “We were doing
nesses in a year when great until the shut- Clark, executive director for Stand
financial aid and downs,” she said. Up Michigan, incoming State Rep.
loans have been slow to be offered With other COVID-19 precautions Steve Carra and State Rep. Brad
and given by the state and federal in place, such as spaced tables, lower Paquette show support for Rise
governments, many business own- capacity, masks and wiping surfaces ‘n’ Shine Cafe, which opened Sat-
ers in Niles began to try to fight back down, Robison said the café was do- urday, defying executive orders.
against the orders. ing its best to keep everyone safe. (Leader photos/CHRISTINA CLARK)
“Having balance and advocat-
Rise ’n’ Shine Cafe defies orders ing for balance isn’t a radical thing,” The cease and desist letter de- the week before the shutdown. We
At Rise ’n’ Shine Café, located at Paquette said that morning at the Harvest Cafe site of protest scribed the violation of the MDHHS were back at a breakeven week.”
2616 Detroit Road in Niles, owner café. “That is what all these people Pam Sebasty, owner of Harvest order as an “imminent and substan- Sebasty said she acknowledged the
Angel Robison had enough. She an- are here for. I also think that in this Café, located at 2726 S. 11th St., also tial danger to public health.” COVID-19 virus is real, but said other
nounced on social media on Friday, time of isolation, it is something opted to open her restaurant’s doors Rise ‘n’ Shine Cafe, located in Cass businesses were open, where people
Dec. 10, she intended to reopen the that has taken a toll on everybody’s to indoor diners on Saturday morn- County, remained open for dine-in could just as easily become infect-
dining room at the café. mental health. Adding some fellow- ing. Days later, she was served a as of Friday. ed. Even in defying the indoor din-
On Saturday morning, her café ship and coming together is very, cease and desist letter from the Ber- “Prior to this [most recent] shut- ing order, she had spaced the tables,
was the second stop in a tour Steve very important, especially during rien County Health Department. By down, we were back to our pre- capped the dining room at 50 percent
Carra (R), incoming Michigan state these times in the cloudy and dark Tuesday, she was back to carry-out COVID-19 [sales] numbers,” Sebasty capacity, enforced mask wearing and
representative for the 59th district, months.” orders only. said of Harvest Café. “It was literally enhanced creating protocols.
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com BUSINESS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 5
“It stinks all the way around,” Se-
basty said. “There’s no easy answer.
For us, there’s no answer right now
because half a mile down the road
[in Indiana], they’re open at 50 per-
cent capacity.”
Sebasty said her business had not
received any of the aid money or
loans throughout the pandemic.
On Tuesday morning, the Pure
Michigan Small Business Relief Ini-
tiative went live at 9 a.m.
“One of the other businesses [in
the area] made it on the list, and
was number 4,700 in line,” she said.
“It was 9:01 a.m. when he signed on.
At that point, I was not going to be
able to get it. When you try for these
grants, they’re gone within a few
minutes.”
On Thursday morning, in front of
Harvest Café, two protestors orga-
nized others to help support Sebasty
and the restaurant.
Erin Brown, of Granger, and Melis-
sa Kelley, of Niles, said it was import-
ant for them to support small busi-
nesses, and especially Sebasty.
“[Sebasty] opened up the restau-
rant finally,” Kelley said. “I’ve been
talking to Pam for almost a year
now, and when she told me she had
to open, otherwise she was going to
lose her business – she said ‘I cannot
sit back and allow that to happen.
What would I tell my grandkids?’
She can’t give up like that in that
fight, and that touched my heart.”
Another former small business
owner, Pat Strefling, lives near Har-
vest Café and came out to support
the restaurant.
“She’s not holding anything
against anybody,” Strefling said.
“[Sebasty] understands, but she also
knows we have to keep going. We
can’t just stop. [As a small business
owner] you struggle and struggle.”
Sebasty was grateful for the pro-
testors’ support.
“They’re trying to support me,” Se-
basty said. “They’re trying to support
the restaurant. They’re trying to sup-
port all small businesses.”
Some of the signs held by pro-
testors included “We Stand Up,”
“Stand up for Small Business!” and
“If Walmart can be open, all small
businesses have the same right.”
Honks of support came from pass-
ing vehicles every few minutes.
Sebasty said she was working
with Stand Up Michigan and seek-
ing legal counsel on how the restau-
rant could work to remain open, un-
der indoor dining mandates.
For one of the organizers of the
protest, Brown, living in Indiana
does not stop her from supporting
the small businesses struggling in
Michigan as Indiana indoor dining
remains open in a limited capacity.
“We have to actually be united
here,” Brown said. “It doesn’t matter
where you’re from.”
Event venue hosts
peaceable assembly
On Monday evening, Don and
Melanie Kennedy, owners of The
Grand LV, an event space and wed-
ding venue in downtown Niles, host-
ed a peaceable assembly. Through-
out the COVID-19 shutdowns, they
struggled through the year as wed-
dings had to be canceled, postponed
or modified as mandates changed
what was allowed with days of notice
at a time.
Around 20 people attended the
event, including Rep. Paquette. The
seating was spaced out through the
grand room in the venue.
Silvio Martino, owner of Jay’s
Lounge (left) and Donny Kennedy,
co-owner of the Grand LV, an event
venue in downtown Niles, ad-
dressed State Rep. Brad Paquette
during a peaceable assembly
hosted at the Grand LV Monday
evening. (Leader photos/CHRISTINA
CLARK)
“We should exercise our right to
fight for constitutional laws and or-
ders, because if we don’t our rights
disappear,” said Don, a veteran Ma-
rine. “But more than that, at a time
like when so many people are hurt-
ing, frustrated and confused, it’s ex-
tremely important for us to gather
together and seek one another’s
counsel.
Don said he believed that
COVID-19 was something that
needed to be taken very seriously,
but wanted a different way of han-
dling precautions than how the
state’s government had done.
Silvio Martino, owner of Jay’s
Lounge, located at 3025 S. 11th St.,
attended and spoke at the meeting
about how he had invested in win-
terizing his outdoor patio to be able
to accommodate outdoor dining for
his customers.
“When this outdoor dining [was
mandated], it was like ‘fine.’ I took
the windows out, turned the heat
on, only to be told after two weeks
that that’s not enough,” Martino
said. “’It’s partially open, not fully
open.’ It just shows me that this is
smoke and mirrors.”
Martino said staying open was
not only important to his business,
but to his employees. He also spoke
about how he takes care of his
mother, who requires medications
daily.
“I am caring for her, as I should
be,” Martino said. “We do all those
things. I don’t expect the entire
world to put their life on hold for
my mom. It’s my responsibility. She
needs [her pills] to survive. She gets
those pills from me. If you cut my
business off and my life off, you’re
not saving my mom from the virus.
You’re killing her because you’re
cutting her off from the insulin she
needs.”
Robison attended the same meet-
ing and shared her thoughts since
reopening her café to indoor dining
the prior weekend.
“Are we going to stay here and
just go bankrupt voluntarily or
open your doors? It’s time to stand
up,” she said. “We have to take care
of our own families. It isn’t about
everybody else. As long as we open
up safely, and we do it togeth-
er, what are they doing to do? It’s
about the people. It’s not about the
government.”
Robison said she had seen an
“outpouring” of support from local
residents, as well as residents from
around the state.
“We all have to stand up,” Robi-
son said. “I hope you all open your
doors.”
Page 6 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 LOCAL www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Local author releases book on Amazon

Writer teams up with fellow Niles native to publish her story women’s empowerment and standing up for
yourselves,” Holiday said. “We realized you can
mean to you, they wouldn’t be in the book.’”
She hopes the book will empower others in
By CHRISTINA CLARK Holiday wrote her story down 28 years ago. remain ‘unbeaten,’ no matter what happens to similar situations like hers.
christina.clark@leaderpub.com She rediscovered her writing after a recent you.” “Nobody very attempts to hurt others, but
move. Holiday said the whole process, from begin- once you know better, you do better,” Holiday

N ILES — On Wednesday morning, a

Niles woman’s work 28 years in the
making became available on Amazon.
“Unbeaten: Stories Untold” by an author go-
ing by the pen name of “C.J. Holiday” was pub-
lished by Simms Book Corporation. The book
is available both on Kindle and in a paperback
publication.
“As I was writing, it was more of a therapy for
me,” Holiday said. “The more I wrote, the more
I realized other people could maybe benefit
from the healing I got from writing my story.”
Holiday’s story will include details from her
own experiences of abuse and battery in rela-
tionships.
“Throughout the story, the things that are
told are things that people are afraid to talk
about. Things that may have happened [to
them],” Holiday said. “People are afraid of hurt-
ing other people. In reality, these things are a
burden, and they hold you down until they are
talked about.”
She was speaking with a friend who had also
recently published a book, which is when she
discovered the opportunity to partner with a
fellow Niles native.
“I’m a Christian. I believe everything hap-
pens for a reason,” Holiday said. “I have a friend
in Atlanta, Georgia, from Niles. She asked me if
I could help her getting a signing together.”
“Out of the Ashes: A Story of Survival,” was
also published by Simms Book Corporation,
and features an author who also grew up in
Niles with the pen name “Lady Façade.”
As Holiday worked with Façade, she told her
about her story.
“I kind of shared about something I had
been through,” Holiday said. “[Façade] reached
out to her publisher, who is now my publisher.”
Holiday will now be flying down to Atlanta
to get a copy of her book in hand and will be
interviewed, along with Façade.
“We are going to be interviewed with four
other authors on abuse, different ways to heal,
ning to end, in getting a book published was
a much longer and more involved experience
than she had previously imagined.
“I was so ‘green’ at this,” Holiday said. “I have
had so much time, being off due to COVID-19.
said. “There is not any anger towards anybody,
but I do feel there’s so much healing in writing
it out and letting people know about it.”
Holiday and Façade are in the early stages
of forming a nonprofit organization to benefit
I had a lot of time.” women coming through abusive situations.
Through the writing of her book, and team-
ing up with Façade, Holiday
said she is hoping for further
healing for herself and oth-
ers.
Holiday recalled a conver-
sation with her eldest son,
speaking about her worry
of writing down her experi-
ences. While the names are
changed, her experiences
remain.
“I told him some of the
stuff that was in the book,”
Holiday said. “He said, ‘the
way I see it, if people weren’t

Madeline Bertrand County Park to possibly expand in 2021

$300,000 grants proposed
for Berrien County Parks
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES — The Michigan Natural
Resources Trust Fund Project has
its 2020 recommendations from its
total grant award of $27,289,600 for
the state. Amongst the 30 awards,
a $300,000 grant is expected to be
granted to Berrien County Park’s
for an addition to Madeline Ber-
trand Park.
Madeline Bertrand County Park,
located at 3038 Adams Road, may be
acquiring an additional plot of land to
add to its existing park structure.
According to Berrien County Parks
Director Brian Bailey, there are still
several more hoops for the board to
jump through before the funding is in
the county’s hands.
“These will take time, I’m predict-
ing, as they will be delayed due to
COVID-19,” Bailey said. “Typically,
in March or April, the legislature in
Michigan would pass a bill supporting
the recommendations from the trust
fund board. Most of the recommenda-
tions from the board are passed.”
The land Berrien County Parks
hopes to add to Madeline Bertrand
Park would expand the park by 37 to
38 acres.
Bailey said the parks department
was approached about an opportu-
nity to purchase the property, to add
Madeline Bertrand County Park.
A large portion of the acre-
age includes river frontage of the
St. Joseph River.
“Anytime there is an opportunity
to add to the public ability to access
natural property, it’s a wonderful
thing,” Bailey said. “This property be-
ing on the St. Joe River, connected to
Madeline Bertrand Park, is somewhat
wooded, an open area and is a really
nice piece of property.”
The money the MNRTF allocates
are part of a constitutionally protect-
ed grant for land purchases and de-
velopment in Michigan.
There were 26 local grants totaling
$20,805,400 proposed, and four state
grants totaling $6,848,200 proposed.
“[The money] cannot be diverted
toward projects like streets and sew-
ers. They can’t be diverted to anything
else, but the people in Michigan voted
to make parks,” Bailey said.
Bailey is excited for the announce-
ments in the spring from the govern-
ment, as he hoped the grant would be
voted for, as it has been in the past.
“It will keep public land in perpe-
tuity,” Bailey said. “Some of us have
realized how important parks are
during this pandemic. We were told:
‘go to your parks and take a walk.’ It’s
a crucial part of our mental and phys-
ical health.”
The Berrien County Parks Depart-
ment will host as parks committee
and committee of interested resi-
dents to hear what the best use of the
anticipated acquisition of land in the
spring.
Hiking, biking and cross-country
trails and additional disc golf were
some of the ideas that came to Bai-
ley’s mind as he considered what the
committees might hear for sugges-
tions.
“It’s just fun to imagine what could
benefit the public,” he said.
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com LOCAL Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 7
NEWS IN BRIEF
Niles man arrested for
child sexually abusive activity
NILES — An investigation conducted by
the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes
Against Children Task Force has resulted in
the arrest of a Niles man.
Joshua Zehfus, 32, was arrested and
arraigned on Dec. 10.
The investigation was initiated by the
Fifth District Computer Crimes Unit when a
suspect was found to be downloading a large
amount of child sexually abusive material.
A search warrant was executed at Zehfus’
home, and digital evidence was seized. An
interview with Zehfus was also conducted
on scene. Troopers from the MSP Niles Post
assisted with the search warrant.
Zehfus has been charged with aggravated
possession of CSAM, distribution of CSAM,
manufacture CSAM, and use of a computer
to commit a crime.
The MSP Computer Crimes Unit
encouraged parents to speak to their
children about the safe use of the internet.
There are many resources available to
parents to assist in keeping children safe
online. The National Center for Missing
and Exploited Children provides a
comprehensive list of resources on their
website at missingkids.org. The MSP ICAC
Task Force also provides resources at
michiganicac.com.
Niles Community Schools to provide
meal assistance over holiday break
NILES — Staff at Niles schools are work-
ing to ensure students do not go hungry
during the holiday break.
Since March, Niles Community Schools
has distributed more than 200,000 meals to
children throughout the community. Meal
distribution will continue over the holidays
with Niles Community Schools’ Holiday
Break Meal Program and two upcoming
pickup days: Tuesday, Dec. 22 and Tues-
day, Dec. 29. Each meal kit includes seven
breakfasts and seven lunches, and all chil-
dren under the age of 18 (or under the age
of 26 with a disability) are eligible to receive
these meals for free. Children do not need
to be Niles Community Schools students to
receive a meal kit.
Meals can be picked up on Tuesday, Dec.
22 and Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the following lo-
cations and times:
• 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Niles High School,
1441 Eagle Street, Niles
• 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Ballard Elemen-
tary, 1601 Chicago Road, Niles
United Federal Credit Union
names mortgage advisor in Buchanan
BUCHANAN — United Federal Credit
Union recently announced the appoint-
ment of Bill Beckman as mortgage advisor
in Buchanan.
Beckman will provide real estate lending
expertise through financial counseling and
product awareness to credit union mem-
bers regarding their real estate financing
needs and generate investment quality
mortgage loans.
Beckman brings more than 12 years of
banking experience to his new role. He has
been with United since 2013 and has held
several roles, most recently the Buchanan
branch manager.
He pairs his industry knowledge with a
passion to help people find the right mort-
gage option for their new home, United rep-
resentatives said.
Beckman attended Indiana University
of South Bend and Glen Oak Community
College. In the community, he is a board
member of the Buchanan Area Chamber of
Commerce.
Brandywine board seeks to fill seat
NILES — The Brandywine Community
Schools board of education is seeking
applicants to fill a vacant position.
The position was left vacant after Doris
Schoenleber, who was appointed to the
board after former board member Jerry
Tibbs died in 2018, opted to leave the board
effective Jan. 1.
During the November election,
incumbent board members Brian Burge
and Holly Pomranka were voted back onto
the board, as well as newcomer Jessica
Crouch. Longtime board president Janis
Exner also ran for the position.
Those persons who are legally qualified
to be on the board and interested in being
considered for appointment should notify
the secretary of the board, Jason Spitler, in
writing by 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 4, 2021.
The letter of application should include
the name, address and phone number of
the applicant, along with the reasons why
the applicant would like to be a member of
the school board.
Letters should be addressed to:
Jason Spitler, Secretary
Board of Education
Brandywine Community Schools
Letters may be hand-delivered or mailed
to 1830 S. Third St. in Niles.
Page 8 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 NILES GOVERNMENT www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
GIVEN THE
GREEN LIGHT
Niles City Council approves microbusiness license,
option agreement for two marijuana businesses
By AMBROSIA NELDON
ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com
NILES — Two marijuana businesses
are one step closer to serving the Niles
community after the city council ap-
proved various steps in the process Mon-
day evening.
Regional Roots, LLC received approval
for a microbusiness license, and council
approved an option agreement for Apex
Grove to potentially purchase a parcel on
the southwest corner of 13th and Lake
streets.
Regional Roots co-owner Michael
Felder spoke during public comments of
the council meeting, sharing his goals for
the business.
“[Regional Roots is] a company found-
ed to cultivate, process and sell exclusive,
high-quality cannabis and cannabis in-
fused products,” he said. “We’re a busi-
ness that will be operating a recreation-
al grow of up to 150 mature plants. The
company will be responsible for process-
ing, packaging the finished products on
site for sale to adults over the age of 21
at our business retail storefront, Regional
Roots LLC.”
Regional Roots was approved for a
microbusiness license, which means the
business may grow, process and retail up
to 150 plants on its site, but, per current
Michigan law, cannot ever have larger
crops or become part of a larger cannabis
company.
“We plan to be the first microbusiness
in Niles,” Felder said. “We’re very excited
about it.”
Regional Roots is actively looking for a
storefront in the S. 11th Street corridor,
and intends to invest $150,000 to start
the business, and employ 10 employees
in year one. Felder said the business ex-
pects revenue at around $2 million in the
first year, which will be reinvested into
the business and the community.
“We’ll place emphasis on constant ed-
ucation and awareness of local and state
regulations for licensure,” Felder said.
“We’re very excited to be a part of the
community of Niles in general and just
kind of add to this community and grow
that interest in the community.”
When it came time to vote, coun-
cilmember John DiCostanzo shared his
approval.
“I want to thank Mr. Felder and his
team for placing some confidence and
putting their business in the City of Niles.
I wish them luck,” he said. “I hope they get
the state and local approvals that they
need and have a successful business.”
Councilwoman Georgia Boggs asked
for clarification on whether the business
would only sell medical marijuana, or
recreational marijuana as well, to which
City Administrator Ric Huff clarified the
business would sell adult-use (recre-
ational) marijuana.
The business was awarded a provision-
al approval certificate in a 6-1 vote, with
council members Gretchen Bertschy,
Amanda Dunnem, Travis Timm, William
Weimer, John DiCostanzo and Jessica
Nelson voting yes. Boggs voted no, and
Charlie McAffee was absent from the
meeting.
Revisiting a business discussed at the
Nov. 9 city council meeting, the coun-
cil voted Monday to approve an option
agreement for Apex Grove, which was
approved for a purchase agreement in
November.
Apex Grove anticipates construc-
tion of a 65,000-square-foot commercial
building at a cost of approximately $2-
$2.5 million, and had offered $31,500 for
the parcel at the southwest corner of 13th
and Lake streets.
According to council reports, “since the
sale is contingent upon several conditions
as noted in the agreement staff believed
an option agreement was more appropri-
ate than a purchase agreement. The par-
ties reached a tentative option agreement
subject to the council’s approval.”
The purchase price was set at $31,500,
with an additional $1,000 non-refundable
option price.
Council approved the option agree-
ment unanimously, with the exception of
councilmember McAfee, who was absent
Monday.
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com BUCHANAN GOVERNMENT Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 9
Maxed out on marijuana?
Buchanan commissioners put the brakes on recreational pot business due to license limit
By DEBRA HAIGHT
Leader Publications Contributor
BUCHANAN — Buchanan
City Commissioners are put-
ting the brakes on a proposed
new recreational marijuana
business in the city.
The action came at Monday
night’s City Commission meet-
ing, which also featured action
on joining the state’s Redevel-
opment Ready Communities
program.
The commission heard from
representatives with Tranquil-
ity Fields at start of the meet-
ing which once again was held
remotely because of COVID-19
pandemic gathering size re-
strictions. Representatives
said they hope to open a new
microbusiness marijuana
business and have an option
on a property on E. Front
Street in Buchanan through
early January.
Edward Santangelo told
commissioners that the com-
pany has a franchise business
model with offering local com-
munity members the chance
to own a small business and
participate in cannabis.
“Our model is to give sup-
port to local franchise owners
and support local communi-
ties,” he said.
He and two other compa-
ny representatives calling
into the meeting said that a
new state law goes into effect
March 1 that allows business-
es to sell recreational mari-
juana without having first had
a medical marijuana license.
They said they are ready to go
with 55 franchises around the
state.
Commissioners voted to not
review the Tranquility Fields
CURRENT BUCHANAN
MARIJUANA BUSINESSES
7Engines
Medical Cultivating, Extraction
and Provisioning Center
1101 E. Front St.
Buchanan, MI 49107
Cannavista Wellness
Recreational and
Medical Dispensary
120 E. Front St.
Buchanan, MI 49107
Phone: (269) 234-7377
High Profile – Buchanan
Recreational Dispensary
804 E. Front St.
Buchanan, MI 49107
Phone: (269) 409-8427
Redbud Roots
Medical Marijuana Dispensary
215 Post Road
Buchanan, Michigan 49107
Phone: (269) 999-1090
Zen Leaf – Buchanan
Recreational and
Medical Dispensary
259 E. Front St.
Buchanan, MI 49107
Phone: (269) 448-0390
proposal until they receive
a recommendation from the
city’s planning commission.
Even if the planning commis-
sion is favorable to the pro-
posal, it would require the
city commission to amend its
adult use marijuana ordinance
to allow for another business.
Currently, the city’s adult
use marijuana ordinance al-
lows for six recreational mar-
ijuana retail businesses, in-
cluding one microbusiness
license. The microbusiness li-
cense already given out is for a
property on Carrol Street.
Commissioner Patrick Swem
was skeptical about moving
forward without a planning
commission recommenda-
tion. He agreed with resident
Alan Robandt, who also spoke
against the proposal.
“We have not allowed our
existing marijuana businesses
to develop fully yet,” he said.
“I would be against adding
another license. I feel we have
sufficient retail right now.”
“We already have six busi-
nesses having trouble making
money. Adding another one
is completely senseless,” Ro-
bandt said.
He did say that the mari-
juana businesses already here
have had a positive impact on
the downtown including his
own antique business where
he’s gotten customers from
Indianapolis and points south
who are coming for the mari-
juana.
Swem and other commis-
sioners did say that they ap-
preciated Tranquility Fields’
interest in Buchanan.
“We appreciate your time
even if we don’t move for-
ward,” Mark Weedon said.
Commissioners moved for-
ward with joining the Mich-
igan Redevelopment Ready
Communities Program. The
program is offered by the
Michigan Economic Develop-
ment Corporation to aid com-
munities around the state.
City Manager Heather Grace
said that the program differs
from the Michigan Main Street
Program in that it focuses
on planning and zoning best
practices through the entire
“
We have not allowed
our existing marijuana
businesses to develop
fully yet,” he said.
“I would be against
adding another license.
I feel we have sufficient
retail right now.”
Patrick Swem,
city council member
city instead of concentrating
solely on the downtown.
“The services we will get are
free technical assistance from
the state through the MEDC
plus more access to grants,”
she said.
Many of the items on Mon-
day night’s agenda were post-
poned until the commission’s
Jan. 11 meeting. Those items
included requests from indi-
viduals both want to purchase
city-owned properties and to
sell their properties to the city.
Grace recommended and
commissioners agreed to post-
pone action on these items.
They did so not only because
the requests had come in late
last week and they didn’t have
time to fully look into them
but also because they are hav-
ing a joint work session with
the planning commissioner
the first week of January.
Two of the proposals con-
cern possible future sites for
the city’s Department of Pub-
lic Works building and/or an
entire municipal campus. One
site is a former retirement cen-
ter at 1207 North Redbud Trail
and is owned by Kim Moyer.
The other is the one being de-
veloped on Third Street by Bill
and Mack Green.
The North Redbud Trail site
was opposed by Robandt. He
noted that city officials recom-
mended more than a decade
ago that the site would a good
location for middle and upper
income high rise apartments.
He also opposed the Green
proposal to locate the DPW
building there.
Two local residents have ex-
pressed interest in buying city-
owned properties adjacent to
theirs on Elizabeth, Bluff and
Michigan Streets. Commis-
sioners expressed a desire to
have city staff develop a list
of all city-owned properties
including their values before
they make any decision.
In other action, commis-
sioners decided to not cancel
their Dec. 28 meeting. A major-
ity of commissioners felt that
having the meeting would give
them another chance to dis-
cuss ongoing and upcoming
projects before the early Janu-
ary joint work session with the
planning commission.
Commissioners renewed the
annual application by Zen Leaf
for their recreational marijua-
na retail establishment. Their
business at 259 E. Front St. has
been open since May, 2019.
They also gave Grace per-
mission to buy eight new com-
puters for city hall at a cost
not to exceed $7,237.04 which
is the quote received from the
city’s IT consultant. Commis-
sioners said they would con-
sider approving more money
for the computers if she can
find laptops that are capable
of handling the city’s software
programs.
Page 10 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 LOCAL www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Lakeland Niles hospital expanding

$1.34 million investment to make rooms more spacious for bariatric wing, orthopedic recovery
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES — Crews are now hard at
work expanding one of Niles’ most
recognizable buildings.
On Dec. 9, the Spectrum Health
Lakeland board of directors approved
a $1.34 million hospital renovation to
take place at the Niles hospital.
Dennis Disch, M.D. and chief med-
ical officer/chief operating officer at
the Spectrum Health Lakeland Niles
Hospital, said the demolition work
has already begun on the wing to be
used for bariatric and orthopedic
units. The construction is projected
to take about six months to complete.
“We are taking it all the way down
to the studs,” Disch said.
The Niles hospital is the primary
facility for bariatric, or weight loss,
surgeries performed in the Lakeland
system.
“The plan is to build a seven-bed
unit, to provide an expansion and big-
ger rooms,” Disch said. “[Bariatric sur-
gery] is for the treatment of obesity. A
lot of our patients are larger body in-
habitants. They require special bariat-
ric sized toilets, special bariatric sized
beds, and they require a larger space.”
The expansion of the area, and
reduction of eight rooms down to
seven, will allow for the medical pro-
fessionals to provide a higher level of
care during patients’ recovery times.
“It will make the services more
comfortable and more patient
friends,” Disch said.
The rooms will also be utilized for
patients with total joint replacements
during their post-operative recovery,
Disch said, because the equipment
will be better adapted to their needs
as well.
“Not only bariatric surgery pa-
tients, but orthopedic patients,
also require more space to recover
because very often thy have to be
on special beds that allow them to
transfer to get up after their surgery,”
Disch said. “We try to get them up
and moving after a total joint re-
placement. It takes a special type
of bed to get them up, since they’re
pretty immobile, typically. It’s diffi-
cult to do well in a typically-sized
patient room.”
Disch hopes the additional space
will result in even more success sto-
ries for the hospital’s programs.
“[The bariatric program] is very
successful [at the Niles hospital]. The
program has been very successful
and a high-volume program for a
number of years,” Disch said. “We are
very proud of it. We are expanding
quickly because we do have quite a
few patients to have this done. This
will allow us to continue that.”
The space being renovated is cur-
rently not in use. Patients currently
recovering from surgery are doing
so in the general recovery area of the
hospital.
“The renovations are happening
without impacting any of our cur-
rent procedures,” Disch said.
During COVID-19, the Spectrum
Health Lakeland Niles hospital has
been concentrating on keeping the
hospital open for procedures and
surgeries.
“We do a lot of outpatient and over-
night surgery,” Disch said. “It simpli-
fies that process, not having those
patients co-existing with COVID-19
positive patients. We make sure they
test COVID-19 negative before hav-
ing procedures. We don’t want the
COVID-19 negative patients to come
in and have any risks. It has allowed
us to proceed without disruption.”

Campbell Ford dealership donates to cancer services

By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES — At 11 a.m. Tuesday morn-
ing, Doug Campbell, of Campbell Ford
Lincoln, at 2801 S. 11th St., present-
ed a giant check for $12,300 to Nancy
Church, of Berrien County Cancer Ser-
vices.
The donation from the dealership
was a part of a fundraising campaign
created in October, according to Kate-
lyn Robbins, business development
manager at the dealership.
“We wanted to keep the donation
local,” Robbins said. “We found out
what the donations were used for
and that the money stayed local.
BCCS provides a lot of good services
for the community.”
Robbins said at least one staff mem-
ber at the dealership had received ser-
vices from BCCS, bringing the decision
to a personal level for some.
An amount of $100 was donated from
the sale of each vehicle sold through-
out the month. Additional donations
were received along the way, as well.
“The bulk of the donation was from
vehicles sold,” Robbins said. “When
we combined the amount together, I
couldn’t believe it. I was so amazed.”
She said the dealership has been
blessed this year, through difficult
times.
“A lot of businesses weren’t sure
what was going to happen, with the
economy and everything going on,”
Robbins said. “We were just blown
away and very blessed with how busy
we were. We definitely wanted to
make sure we could reciprocate and
give back.”
According to its website, the BCCS
offers services and resources ranging
from in-home nursing visits and med-
ical equipment from its loan closet
including walkers, shower chairs and
wheel chairs. BCCS has a room where
scarves, turbans and wigs may be tried
on, and prostheses for breast cancer
survivors. The nonprofit also offers
medical supplies, at both cost and Doug Campbell, of Campbell Ford Lincoln, presented
no-cost depending on the financial sit- a check Tuesday morning to Nancy Church, of Berrien
uation, as well as financial assistance County Cancer Services. The dealership had raised
and support groups and referrals to money through October to give to the nonprofit orga-
patients navigating cancer treatments. nization. (Submitted photo)
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com LOCAL Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 11

Niles Water Department receives award from CDC, USDHHS

Water Fluoridation Quality
Award recognizes Niles for
2019 optimal fluoride levels
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES — The City of Niles Water
Department received a Water Flu-
oridation Quality Award for 2019.
Leanne Caddy, superintendent
of the City of Niles Water Depart-
ment, was excited to receive the
award and proud of her team. She
said her team works hard to ensure
residents continue to receive water
at all hours of the day, and wanted
to highlight the department’s win
to remind others of the work they
do when not in a utilities emergen-
cy.
“We have water operators that
are on call 24/7,” Caddy said. “They
are out in the worst elements. You
go to your faucet, and the water
is there, and it’s good. We only get
called when it’s bad.”
The award comes from the U.S.
Department of Health and Human
Services and the Centers for Dis-
ease Control and Prevention. To be
recognized, the water department
runs tests on the water supply each
day and reports the findings in a
Water Fluoridation Reporting Sys-
tem. For Niles, Caddy reports the
results of the tests to the Michigan
Department of Environment, Great
Lakes, and Energy, which regulates
public water supplies throughout
the state.
EGLE has oversight of around
1,400 community water supplies
and 10,000 noncommunity water
supplies, according to their web-
site. The city of Niles is just one of
those.
To receive the Water Fluorida-
tion Quality Award, Caddy said the
department has to report an opti-
mum fluoride dosage in the water
supply for 12 consecutive months.
“The fluoride is a good thing in
very small doses,” Caddy said. “It
helps the children, mostly, that
may not be able to go to the dentist
and get fluoride treatments. It’s giv-
en to them in the water, and is good
for their teeth and bones.”
The target for fluoridation is spe-
cific, according to Caddy. The goal
is 0.7 mg per liter of water.
“That is our target,” Caddy said.
“That is what they say has the most
benefits.”
Testing for the fluoride levels
each day is a task her team takes
on.
“We do have some natural flu-
oride in the water, so we have to
balance that with how much you
add to come up with that golden
number.”
Caddy has been superintendent
of the City of Niles Water Depart-
ment for a little over a year.
“This was my first year as super-
intendent we received this award,”
Caddy said. “I’m pretty happy about
that. Everybody has all of this bad
news going on with COVID-19, so it
is nice to share something positive.”
Caddy said the water depart-
ment has kept working throughout
the year.
“We’re making sure people had
good, quality drinking water and
electricity,” Caddy said. “That’s a
shout out to my guys on the team.”

Peace of mind in a caring community

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your first full month.
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forestglennassistedliving.com 269.743.3550
Page 12 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 OPINION www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Niles Daily Star

Shop local this Christmas

STAFF COLUMN

ADMINISTRATIVE
GENERAL MANAGER
Ambrosia Neldon
(269) 687-7700
ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com

T here might not be much snow on SARAH CULTON you could imagine in Deck the Halls.
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Rhonda Rauen the ground, and many of us may is the managing editor at You can even pick up a gift for the furry
(269) 687-7711 be feeling less jolly than in years Leader Publications. She friend in your life at Bow Wow Bakery.
rhonda.rauen@leaderpub.com past, but Christmas is right around the can be reached by phone at Don’t forget to check out one of the
corner. (269) 687-7712 or by email area’s many antique stores to find a truly
PRODUCTION/CUSTOMER SERVICE If you’re anything like me, you haven’t at sarah.culton@leaderpub. unique gift. Or get someone on your list
Emily Sobecki
even begun your Christmas shopping, com a gift card to one of our area’s fantastic
(269) 687-7704
emily.sobecki@leaderpub.com
instead preferring to wait until the week restaurants — everyone loves to eat!
before the holiday making a panicked, All of those listed businesses just
mad dash to collect gifts for everyone make up a few of the many businesses
EDITORIAL on your list. items, such as blankets, candles and that serve our area so well. This year,
MANAGING EDITOR This year, instead of packing into a charcuterie boards, for a friend you each and everyone one of our local busi-
Sarah Culton
(269) 687-7712
crowded mall with people who won’t be want to impress. You can also pick up nesses needs our help. COVID-19 has hit
sarah.culton@leaderpub.com socially distancing, let’s make an effort whimsical mugs and other tea acces- small businesses hard, and if we don’t
to support our local businesses. While sories from Apothica Teas, specialty support them now, not only with our
SPORTS EDITOR shopping local may not be as easy as candles from Wrapped in Light LLC or a words but with our dollars, they will not
Scott Novak shopping big box stores, I guarantee you new book for the reader on your list at be here for us next Christmas. We can’t
(269) 687-7702 are bound to find something much more Shelf Life. let that happen. Our small businesses
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
unique and special for every person on In Dowagiac, you find a gift fit for a are vital to our community.
REPORTERS
your list. fashionista at the Marshall Shoppe and So, before you rush out to the mall
Christina Clark In Niles, you can find the perfect wine Mariah’s closet, handmade goods at to fill your last-minute shopping order,
(269) 687-7720 for that coworker you got in the Se- Oh My Old Made New, unique books at check out a small business instead and
christina.clark@leaderpub.com cret Santa draw at the Brass Eye before Olympia Books, colorful fabrics for the give yourself the gift of knowing that
hopping down to Upcycled Artisan to crafter on your list at Quilted Oak Leaf you supported your community and
Max Harden browse through their many handmade and the best Christmas-themed items your neighbors.
(269) 687-7706
max.harden@leaderpub.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ADVERTISING
MARKETING CONSULTANT
Phil Langer
Niles Scream Parks The new show of is not safe. and Steve Carra — joined up
(269) 687-7725 says ‘thank you’ ‘Les Deplorables’ The Rise ‘N Shine restau- last Saturday at the restaurant
phil.langer@leaderpub.com The board of directors and “What a terrible era in rant in Niles has now become with Tammy Clark of Stand-
all of our volunteers want to which idiots govern the blind.” the place where dissidents Up Michigan fame to proudly
Jen Bounds
thank everyone that attend- William Shakespeare, Julius can simultaneously have show their defiance against
(269) 687-7728
jennifer.bounds@leaderpub.com ed the Niles Scream Park this Caesar. breakfast and defy Michigan tyranny. They should have
year. It was so good to hear The week is not over and yet Department of Health and had the street urchin — little
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING people young and old laugh- this is what has happened as Human Services’ extension of Cosette — with them to wave
(269) 591-6105 ing and screaming again. of this writing. its order that restaurants and the French tricolor flag.
They just forgot their trou- The electoral college official- bars remain closed due to the Their cold, calculated show
Published Wednesday and Saturday bles and had a good time. We ly declared Joe Biden the new surge in COVID-19 cases in was nauseating and an effron-
except holidays when the postal service did our best to keep you safe, President of the United States. our state. tery to civility and decency.
does not deliver mail: New Year’s Day, and we appreciated that you Simultaneously, numerous Re- Such patriotic fervor for However ugly, it was a good
Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day helped us surprisingly reach publican voters and lawmak- such a noble cause. Build political move designed to
and Christmas Day at 217 N. Fourth the level of our third highest ers refused to acknowledge those barricades. Let’s hear pander to Trump voters who
Street, Niles, Michigan, by Leader attendance ever. this formality claiming with- it for “Liberté, égalité, frater- remain loyal to the deposed
Publications LLC. Periodicals paid at We hope to be back in out evidence that President nité.” Strike up the La Mar- president.
the Niles Post Office, 741 Broadway St. 2021 to scare the “yell” out Trump was cheated. seillaise. Who would have Grist — I say — for a new
Postmaster: Send change of address to of you. Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine is thought? Les Misérables — in Broadway hit ‘Les Deplorables.’
Circulation Manager, The Daily Star, 217 now available. Simultaneously, Niles, no less.
N. Fourth Street, Niles, MI 49120. Home DON KIRKENDALL numerous people say they will Clever local Republican WAYNE FALDA
Delivery by mail is local: $7.50/month, Niles refuse the vaccine out of fear it politicians — Brad Paquette Edwardsburg
out of town: $10.50/month.
Established in 1886 • USPS 390-620
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Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com OPINION Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 13
GUEST COLUMN

The way things were supposed to be: Part one

O LARRY WILSON
nce upon a time (because that is the
proper way to begin all good fairy
tales, flights of fantasy, and tall tales
of make-believe), a race of Elves lived in the
Kingdom of Harmonium — a land of prom-
ise, abundance and opportunity. By and
large, Elves were good-natured, hard-work-
ing and liked things to be the way things
were supposed to be — and things had been
the way they were supposed to be for a very
long time.
As it had always been, Harmonium was
divided into several tribes, with each tribe
comfortably living life according to their
own customs, traditions and values. Each
village raised their children according to
those close-held tribal values and tradi-
tions — making them stronger with each
subsequent generation. However, when
every Elf reached the Age-of-Choice, they
were expected to make The Choice — se-
lecting which tribe’s values and lifestyles
best matched up with their own individual
attitudes.
Every four years, all Elves over the Age-
of-Choice had an opportunity to reconsider
their view of the way things were supposed
to be, and select another tribe. Usually, as
young Elves matured, met mates and raised
is a mostly lifelong resident
of Niles. His essays stem from
experiences, compilations
and recollections from friends
and family. He can be reached
at wflw@hotmail.com.
families, they settled into a single tribe
whose customs, traditions and values best
matched up with how they wanted to live.
From that point on, every four years when
the choice rolled around, they comfortably
chose to stay with their tribe, live in their
village, and keep things the way things were
supposed to be.
For the most part, life within each tribe
was harmonious and pleasant — shared
values and attitudes have a way of making
that happen. However, interaction between
the tribes was not quite as simple. Some
tribes were “Nighters” and tended to con-
duct business with like-minded nocturnal
tribes. Likewise, other tribes were “Dayers”
and preferred to trade with tribes who
agreed that this was the way things were
supposed to be. Some tribes worshiped the
sound of the wind, believing the wind to be
the original Source. Some tribes worshiped
warmth, believing it brought a resurrection
of life after the cold death of winter. Some
tribes preferred to ignore the subject of
religion, entirely ­— it was too confusing.
In order for the Kingdom of Harmonium
to continue to prosper, something had to
be done to unite all of the tribes — regard-
less of time-of-day proclivities or religious
penchants.
Elves did not enjoy discord. The Harmo-
nium national motto was, “Please Don’t
Bother Us — Thanks for Understanding.”
With so many tribes, doing so many things,
so many different ways, things were not the
way things were supposed to be. A summit
was called to bring together the leaders of
all the tribes, with the goal of finding a way
to get all of the Tribes of Harmonium in
sync.
However, due to calendar issues such
as each tribe celebrating different and
disconnected holidays, a mish-mash of time
zones and daylight preferences, along with
a plethora of other socio-economic incom-
patibilities, the tribal leaders could not
come to an agreement on when or where to
meet.
One tribe of Elves were completely dif-
ferent from all of the rest — the Pols. Their
traditions were to keep their secrets to
themselves. Tribal members rarely chose to
leave, and very few new ones were allowed
to join. They were the smallest tribe in
all of Harmonium and were rumored to
have mystical skills, such as the ability to
simultaneously talk out of both sides of
their mouths, and using lots of words to say
nothing at all.
Outwardly, Pols always smiled, eagerly
shook other Elves hands, and posed for
pictures while kissing baby Elves. However,
none of the other Elves really knew anything
about the Pols — and, for the Pols, that was
the way things were supposed to be
However, more than any other tribe, the
Pols were very skilled at one particular
thing — they knew how to get things done.
The Pols discretely contacted each tribal
leader and unselfishly offered to shoulder
the daunting task of uniting all the tribes
into one cohesive kingdom. Each of the
tribal leaders thought this was a great idea
because it meant none of them had to both-
er with it — and things could return to the
way things were supposed to be.
Of course, that really wasn’t the end of
the story…

GUEST COLUMN

The courageous story of Jesus Christ control. They were not about to allow Jesus to disrupt their
world; no matter who He said He was.
The rejection of Jesus by the Jewish leaders was so strong

“H
e came to His own and His own received Him
not.” It is like a friend or family member came to
visit and they were ignored, shunned, or rejected.
It is even worse when you realize that this One who came,
told them He was coming. He did not threaten nor cajole; He
simply wanted to be part of their lives.
This is the story of Jesus Christ. The gospel of John, chapter
1, verse 11, tells of this rejection of Jesus by His own people.
Granted, He could have made a grander appearance into a
noble, well-established family, etc., but He chose to arrive in
obscurity, born to a virgin woman from, of all places, Nazareth.
The mother of Jesus was named Mary, and she was not
alone when Jesus was born. Her husband to be — yes, engaged
husband, but not married yet — stuck by her even though she
was pregnant by somebody other than him. The “somebody
other” was the Spirit of the Living God. This was a divine act
often called the immaculate conception. Mary, the mother of
Jesus, was told of these events by a messenger from God, an
angel named Gabriel.
This coming of Jesus into the world is called the incarnation.
Jesus was from Heaven. He was the Son of God. He was sent by
Almighty God (His Father) to save His people from their sins.
The message of Jesus was hope, peace, love, and joy. Jesus was
always quick to talk about His Heavenly Father and express
the “good news” of the Father’s love, and the great blessings
waiting for anybody who would receive Jesus Christ for who
He was.
Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which was in Israel. Israel was
the land of the Jews, so Jesus was born into a Jewish family and
the people He came to were Jews. For the most part, the Jewish
people rejected Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah. The Jew-
ish people were not ready for such a liberating message. They
were locked into decades of tradition, dogma, etc., and they
had created a power structure that gave them prestige and
that they eventually had Him killed by crucifixion. Jesus died
on the cross and was buried, but it was not over. Jesus was the
Son of God — God in the flesh. After three days, the Father of
Jesus (Almighty God) raised Jesus from the dead. This mighty
act, the resurrection, was not recognized by the Jewish leaders,
so the rejection of Jesus continued. Even though the Jewish re-
ligious leaders failed to receive Jesus as God’s Son, many others
did receive Him, and a mighty movement called the Church
emerged and continues to this day.
The rejection of Jesus seems to be the norm, but do not
allow yourself to fall into that crowd. Jesus was, is, and always
will be. The message He brought then is the same message
today: hope, peace, love, and joy.
Is it not interesting that the only place you hear that liberat-
ing message is from the followers of Jesus?
Dan Puckett works with road team operations at Life
Action Ministries in Buchanan, Michigan
Page 14 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 EDUCATION www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Students campaign against cyberbullying

By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
NILES — With this year’s unique chal-
lenges incorporating the ability to move be-
tween in-person and at-home instructions,
art teacher Scott Morgan became aware of
an issue facing many of his students at Ring
Lardner Middle School and Eastside Con-
nections: cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs
over the internet, such as on social media
platforms.
“I know it’s on the rise with the pandem-
ic,” Morgan said. “This started as a discus-
sion in class. I couldn’t believe how many
students have experienced this.”
Morgan said he asked his students one
day to raise their hand if they had ever
been cyberbullied, and he said around 75
percent of the students raised their hands.
He then asked how many had witnessed cy-
berbullying, and every hand shot up in the
room.
“We started talking, and I said we were
going to do an anti-cyberbullying poster,”
Morgan said. “Nobody said they were not
into it. They were all positive, and telling
me stories.”
For Morgan, the project was a natural fit
with his background in graphic design.
He began doing more research into the
issue of cyberbullying to help educate his
students on the issue. He found a law in
Michigan that went into effect on March
27, 2019.
The law, Enrolled House Bill No. 5017,
states that it is illegal to cyberbully anoth-
er person. The misdemeanor punishments
begin with a fine of no more than $500, or
imprisonment up to 93 days, and escalate
if the behavior continues into a felony with
imprisonment up to 10 years or a fine of
not more than $10,000, in the case of the
violation being a pattern of harassing or in-
timidating behavior, “and by the violation
causes the death of the victim.”
When the students learned about cyber- “People are too scared to speak up, so we “Everyone is perfect the way they are.
bullying, and the project to create posters have to speak up for them. We can change They don’t need to change anything about
against cyberbullying, Morgan said they for the better. Speak up so that NO one themselves. So, when you cyberbully…
were excited to get started. else gets hurt physically or mentally!” STOP and think before you type.”
Addision Miller, sixth grade, Eastside Connection Jordyn Jenkins, sixth grade, Eastside Connections
“They’re looking forward to having their
posters hung up in the schools,” Morgan
said.
After the students turned in their post-
ers, Morgan said their insights were really
thoughtful.
“I didn’t influence them one way or an-
other, that came from their hearts,” he said.
Morgan hopes that the younger students
at Eastside Connections see the posters
and look up to their peers making the an-
ti-cyberbullying posters.
Morgan teaches sixth through eighth
grade students in art at Ring Lardner Mid-
dle School, and the same grades at Eastside
Connections. At Eastside Connections, stu- “I see all the anti-cyberbullying posters with
dents are rotating into art every two weeks. girls getting bullied, but there are a lot of
This is just the first class of sixth graders to guys getting bullied online as well. Guys get “I drew this poster to inspire to never
do the poster project at Eastside, but every bullied online too and some in the worst cyberbully. Cyberbullying hurts a lot of
two weeks Morgan said new students will cases commit suicide because of it.” people with just words.”
be participating in the project. Anidale Doyle, eighth grade, Ring Lardner Middle School Emerlin Bailey, sixth grade, Ring Lardner Middle School

“I wish my artwork will make people think
twice about cyberbullying.”
Jessica Thornton, seventh grade, Ring Lardner Middle School
“I think that cyberbullying is terrible. I hope
that my poster will encourage someone to
stand up to bullying. Bullying kills, so please
stop.”
Addison VanDalsen, sixth grade, Ring Lardner Middle School
“I hope my poster helps people stop
cyberbullying because you should go after
your dreams, not people.”
Layla McCrory, sixth grade, Ring Lardner Middle School
“I did this poster to show that people need
to cyberbullying. Cyberbullying can hurt. My
drawing has scars to show that these words
hurt and it’s hurting her in the inside and out.”
Madilyn Czamecki, seventh grade, Ring Lardner Middle School
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com LIFESTYLES Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 15

BERRIEN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE RAISES MONEY THROUGH NO SHAVE NOVEMBER PET OF THE WEEK

BERRIEN COUNTY — The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office once
again participated in the nationally recognized “No Shave”
November and December again this year. Members of the
sheriff’s office were able to beard up as long as they paid $50
each month, and that money went to two area charities.
The money from the month of November went to the
Michigan Law Enforcement Polar Plunge for the Special
Olympics Michigan. The plunge is being done virtual this year,
and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office is again organizing a
team to participate.
The money from the month of December is going to The
Cure Starts Now in support of pediatric cancer research. First
responders across the country are joining forces to flaunt their
finest facial hair in honor of our smallest warriors battling
cancer.
The sheriff’s office was able to raise more than $5,000 in the
months of November and December. The month of November
raised $2,660 for the Special Olympics Michigan, while the
month of December raised $2,400 for pediatric cancer research.
This is the third year the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office has
participated in “No Shave” events. “This is a great way to
support two outstanding charities while allowing our deputies
to lose their razors for a couple months,” said Sheriff Paul
Bailey. (Submitted photo)
Snowball is a handsome, pure white
little boy with spectacular light green eyes,
volunteers said. This 4-year-old is good with
cats, not tested with dogs and neutered. He
appears deaf but could take cues from another
cat in your home. Snowball would love a home
for the holidays. For more information, contact
Animal Aid at infoanimalaidswmi@gmail.com
or (269) 926-4279.

SHELTON’S, CUSTOMERS FEEDING COMMUNITY

NILES — Shelton’s Farm Market, 1832 S. 11th St.,
Niles, has sold enough food boxes to feed more than 250
families. Tuesday, Shelton’s employees distributed food
boxes for Brandywine Community Schools. Wednesday,
representatives from the Niles Salvation Army picked
up 100 boxes to distribute.
As of Wednesday, Shelton’s was working to feed at
least 60 more families. Those interested may purchase a
box that will be delivered to a family in need by visiting
shop.sheltonfarms.com. Boxes include 50 pounds of
food and are $29.95 — $10 off retail value. (Submitted
photos)
GOT RESULTS?
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
(269) 687-7702
SPORTS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2020
MORE ONLINE
For more stories and photos
visit www.leaderpub.com

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Former Eddie
Priebe set for
Big Ten finale
By SCOTT NOVAK
scott.novak@leaderpub.com

EDWARDSBURG — For former Edwards-

MALAKAI HAINES
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
RYAN ROACH
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
burg standout Josh Priebe, just getting to
DAVID COLLIER TERRANCE PRICE play his freshman season of college football
has been special.
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE Even more special is that his Northwest-
ern Wildcats will play for the Big Ten Cham-
pionship at Lucas Oil Field today against the
Ohio State Buckeyes.
The Wildcats, for which
Priebe is a back-up guard as
a freshman, rolled into the
championship game with
a 28-10 win over rival Illi-
nois in the Land of Lincoln
Trophy game last Saturday.
Northwestern clinched its
second Big Ten West Divi-
sion title in the past three Josh Priebe
seasons with the victory. It
was also the Wildcats’ sixth
consecutive win over the Illini.
It was a bit of a roller coaster ride for Prie-
be and the Wildcats to even get to their sea-
son opener against Maryland, a 43-3 win,
back on Oct. 24. Northwestern went 6-1 in
DENY WHITE PEYTON BRADY-BRITTAIN the regular season, which were all Big Ten
Conference games. Its only loss was a 29-20
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE setback against Michigan State.
The Wildcats were fortunate to have
just one of their games canceled due to

All-Wolverine Conference team named

By SCOTT NOVAK did not crown a champion in
scott.novak@leaderpub.com 2020.
The Edwardsburg Eddies
DOWAGIAC — Due to a were 4-0 during the regular
shortened season because season, while Paw Paw was
of the COVID-19 pandemic, 4-1. Vicksburg finished with
the Wolverine Conference a 4-2 record. Dowagiac fin-
ished at 2-3.
The conference coaches
gathered together recently to
select its all-conference team.
The Eddies led the way with
nine first-team selections.
Dowagiac had four players
earn first-team all-confer-
ence honors.
The Eddies’ Kevin Bartz
was named Coach of the Year
by his peers.
See FOOTBALL, page 17
COVID-19.
“It was a whirlwind of emotions going back
and forth between the season being canceled
and not canceled. Once we found out [it was
going to be played] we had like three or four
weeks of camp,” Priebe said. “Everyone was
really excited and pumped up for that first
Maryland game, and we kind of took all that
excitement into the rest of the games.”
See PRIEBE, page 19
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com SPORTS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 17
ETHAN CEBRA
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
JAYLYNN LUSTER
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
FOOTBALL
Continued from page 16
First-team selections for Edwards-
burg were seniors Peyton Brady-Brit-
tain, Ethan Cebra, Max Hafner, Jackson
Hoover, Tanner Hursh, Jaylynn Luster
and Bennett Meyers.
The Chieftains had seniors David
Collier, Terrence Price, Ryan Roach and
Deny White selected, as well as sopho-
more Malakai Haines.
Haines opened up as a running back,
but finished the year playing quar-
terback for the Chieftains. He led the
MAX HAFNER
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
JACOB PEGURA
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
team in rushing with 522 yards.
“He is a good open-field runner, who
is very elusive and tough to tackle,”
said Dowagiac coach Randy Brooks.
Price and Roach were three-year
starters for Dowagiac. Price played
fullback and linebacker, while Roach
played on the offensive and defensive
lines.
“Terrance was our toughest player
and hardest hitter,” Brooks said. “He
played with great enthusiasm and was
a fierce competitor. Ryan was our most
consistent lineman, who we ran behind
when we needed yards. He played with
good technique and was a quiet leader
on the team.”
JACKSON HOOVER TANNER HURSH
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
DAVION SCHMUCKER BENNETT MEYERS
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE
White was the captain of the Chief-
tains’ defense. He played both safe-
ty and running back for Dowagiac in
2020. Collier also played safety and was
Need the score from
a game? Have a
MEET
our
STAFF
a running back for the Chieftains.
“Deny is a smart football player,” question about
Brooks said. “He made our secondary
adjustments and was an outstanding
getting an event
tackler. He was a good leader that nev- in the paper?
er missed a workout or practice. Col-
lier was our most improved and most
valuable player. He averaged 6.1 yards
per carry. CONTACT
“Defensively, his technique made Scott Novak Sports Editor
him a good sound tackler. He diag- 269-687-7702
nosed offensive plays quickly and scott.novak@leaderpub.com
made plays.”
Page 18 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 SPORTS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
ON THE SIDELINES

Michigan must make another change to football staff

A
s I scrolled through my social me-
dia news feeds, looking to see what
is going on in the state of Michigan
and the country as far as sports are
concerned, I ran across an article about Jim
Harbaugh saying he wants to remain Michi-
gan’s football coach.
I just had to click on the link to read more.
My main reason is to see if Harbaugh had any
rationale for why the University of Michigan
should keep him as its head coach. After all,
to say his tenure in Ann Arbor has been a bust
might be a bit understated.
The Wolverines, who came into the
COVID-shortened Big Ten season with high
expectations, will head into Saturday’s finale
with a 2-4 record. Michigan was unable to
play arch rival Ohio State last Saturday due to
issues with COVID-19, making it the first time
in 102 years that the Wolverines and Buckeyes
have not met on the gridiron.
That cancellation saved Harbaugh and the
Wolverines from another embarrassing loss to
Ohio State, a loss that would have left him with
a 0-6 mark against the Buckeyes. In Michigan
circles, that is far from good enough. Even if
the Wolverines were beating up on everyone
else, including top-ranked teams, a winless re-
cord against the Buckeyes usually gets a coach
sent packing. The same is
true at Ohio State if you
cannot beat “that team up
north.”
Heck, John Cooper
would go basically 9-2
every season in Colum-
bus, Ohio, but since one
of those two losses was
SCOTT NOVAK
Sports Editor usually to the Wolverines,
he was fired. You have to
beat your arch rival or hit the road. In what
I and many consider the greatest rivalry in
college football, that is just how it goes.
As I have said in past columns and many
conversations recently with football fans, I
never expected Jim Harbaugh to fail at Mich-
igan — not even close. When the university
announced the hiring, I thought the Wolver-
ines would vault back to the top of the college
football mountain, a place it has spent much
of its history.
In fact, Michigan remains No. 1 in total vic-
tories with 962. Ohio State stands second with
924, while Alabama, Texas and Yale are tied for
third with 916. Notre Dame comes in tied for
sixth with Oklahoma at 908.
But over the past decade, Michigan has been
anything but the best team in college football.
Since the departure of Lloyd Carr in 2007,
Michigan coaches Rich Rodriguez, Brady Hoke
and Harbaugh are a combined 95-63. That
might be good enough at some schools, but it
is not good enough in Ann Arbor.
Game statistics aside, you also have to look
at the fact that is set to make $8 million next
season, the last year of his six-year deal. Mich-
igan’s coaching staff, based on 2019 salaries,
was the first major college football program to
have three assistants making at least $1 mil-
lion. Are the Wolverines getting enough bang
for their bucks?
I certainly do not think so.
The real problem facing the University of
Michigan is who would replace Harbaugh and
could turn the team into a top-tier program,
the same way Brian Kelly did at Notre Dame?
The short answer is who knows. In my mind,
Rodriguez was a failed experiment to bring the
Wolverines out of the Bo Schembechler era
and into the modern days of college football.
Hoke was supposed to right the ship with great
recruiting. He did land a lot of great recruits,
but those recruits never excelled.
Harbaugh was the one. The one to bridge
the Schembechler days with the way college
football is played now. He was a quarterback
whisperer who would be able to beat the
Buckeyes and in-state rival Michigan State.
It just has not worked out the way everyone
planned.
Now, with one year left on his contract, and
the Detroit Lions searching for yet another
new coach, who knows if Harbaugh jumps
back to the National Football League where he
enjoyed success with the San Francisco 49ers.
Perhaps Wednesday will be a telling sign
for the administration at the University of
Michigan. The early signing period begins for
recruiting and Michigan had the No. 9-ranked
class heading into it. Should players start de-
ciding they would rather play somewhere else,
then it could force their hand and make them
think about going in a new direction.
I wish I had a crystal ball and could see into
the future. I would like to be able to predict if
there is a coach out there that could return
the Wolverines as one of the elite teams in the
nation. But alas, I do not. So, we will all have
to wait and see what the future holds. Starting
Wednesday with the signing of recruits, and
then on Saturday when Michigan wraps up its
season against Iowa.
Scott Novak is sports editor for Leader
Publications. He can be reached at scott.
novak@leaderpub.com.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

MHSAA met Friday to decide on plan to finish fall sports

By SCOTT NOVAK
scott.novak@leaderpub.com
NILES — The Michigan High
School Athletic Association appears
to be ready to work out a new plan
for completing the fall sports sea-
son, and restarting preseason prac-
tices for the winter sports teams.
The state of Michigan and the
MHSAA put both seasons on a
three-week pause back on Nov. 15.
That pause was to end on Dec. 8, but
the governor’s office and the Michi-
gan Department of Health and Hu-
man Services extended the pause
until Sunday.
The MHSAA’s representative
council was scheduled to meet on
Wednesday to put forth a plan, but
canceled that meeting.
In an email sent to the state’s ath-
letic directors Thursday, Executive
Director Mark Uyl said the council
would meet Friday morning to cre-
ate a new plan for finishing the state
finals in volleyball, swimming and
diving, and football. The state will
also lay out its plans for starting the
winter sports season.
“The MHSAA has been pushing
daily for updated information from
the governor’s office and MDHHS
regarding plans for school sports
following the expiration of the cur-
rent emergency orders on Dec. 20,”
Uyl wrote in his email. “It appears
we will have information so deci-
sions can be finalized and shared
very soon. We have confirmed our
representative council meeting for
tomorrow morning, Dec. 18 and we
will be communicating with schools
immediately following this meeting
with the next set of updated details
and plans.”
Uyl also noted that he under-
stands people are tired of waiting
for answers
“I realize the waiting game has
been beyond frustrating for all of us
over the past month,” he wrote. “We
simply have no other options other
than to wait on those government
and health department offices mak-
ing all current activity and gather-
ing decisions. You will hear from us
immediately following tomorrow
morning’s council meeting.”
As of press time, no announce-
ment has been made by the repre-
sentative council as to how it will MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said the representative council would meet
proceed. on Friday to lay out its plan to finish the fall sports season. (Leader file photo)
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com SPORTS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 19
PRIEBE
Continued from page 16
Priebe played in all the regular-sea-
son games for the Wildcats. At times, he
would know he was definitely going to be
on the field because of certain situations,
while at other times, he had to be ready
to go when the coaches called upon him.
“A couple of times throughout the sea-
son, because we had a couple of injuries,
we have a package where I am a ‘jumbo’
tight end, so I go in different blocking
packages like goal line, or certain times
like that. The times I was playing ‘jumbo’
tight end, I went into the game knowing
that I was going to play and knew what
situations I would be going in. The times
I wasn’t doing that, then it was like if
something happens, I go in, or if we have
a pretty good lead, I go in and play some
guard.”
Priebe said that his expectation of
playing college football was matched by
the experience, with one exception.
“It was a little weird not having fans,”
he said. “I am sure that, obviously, that
makes game day a little different. Game
days are definitely the best day of the
week. Playing Big Ten football is a lot of
fun.”
The first time a coach called his name
and told him to get into the game, it was
not a lot different from the first time it
happened in high school.
“It is comparable to the first time you
get into a varsity game as a freshman,” he
said. “You are just kind of wide-eyed. You
do not expect it to happen, but when it
does, you just go out there and take that
energy and excitement out on the field
and you play as hard as you can.”
Speaking of coaches, Priebe said
that playing for Northwestern Head
Coach Pat Fitzgerald has been a great
experience.
“He is an awesome guy,” he said.
“Through recruiting a couple of years
ago, he is the same guy as he was then.
He wasn’t putting on some type of show
to get guys to commit. He is the same guy.
Just from what I have seen, compared to
other coaches, he is such a personable
guy who really cares about the well-be-
ing of his players. That has really shown
through the year I have been here.”
The Big Ten Championship game kicks
off at noon and can be seen on Fox.
ALL-WOLVERINE CONFERENCE FOOTBALL
DAILY DATA
First Team
Zakary Foster (Sr.), Allegan
David Collier (Sr.), Dowagiac
Malakai Haines (Soph.), Dowagiac
Terrence Price (Sr.), Dowagiac
Ryan Roach (Sr.), Dowagiac
Deny White (Sr.), Dowagiac
Peyton Brady-Brittain (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Ethan Cebra (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Max Hafner (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Jackson Hoover (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Tanner Hursh (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Jaylynn Luster (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Bennett Meyers (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Jacob Pegura (Jr.), Edwardsburg
Davion Schmucker (Sr.), Edwardsburg
Ashton Atwater (Jr.), Otsego
Parker Eastman (Sr.), Otsego
Quinn Thomas (Sr.), Otsego
Aaron Hayes (Sr.), Paw Paw
Connor Hindenach (Sr.), Paw Paw
Kolby Hindenach (Sr.), Paw Paw
Peyton Long (Sr.), Paw Paw
Jason Rocz (Sr.), Paw Paw
Dennis Strey (Jr.), Paw Paw
Jose Valverde (Jr.), Paw Paw
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2755 E. NAPIER AVENUE 1905 FOUNDATION DRIVE
BENTON HARBOR, MI 49022 NILES, MI 49120
(269) 927-1000 (269) 695-1391
Jack Anderson (Jr.), Plainwell
Carter Cushman (Sr.), Plainwell
David Hamilton (Soph.), Plainwell
Gideon Likens (Sr.), Plainwell
Owen McDaniel (Sr.), Plainwell
Alex Rowe (Sr.), Plainwell
Jaden Bodi (Sr.), Sturgis
Rylee Cain (Sr.), Sturgis
Connor Strudwick (Jr.), Sturgis
Jacob Reynolds (Soph.), Three Rivers
Brayden Selent (Sr.), Three Rivers
Luke Stasiuk (Sr.), Three Rivers
Grant Anderson (Soph.), Vicksburg
Jacob Conklin (Sr.), Vicksburg
Carter Mann (Soph.), Vicksburg
Stephen McCowen (Sr.), Vicksburg
Brendan Monroe (Sr.), Vicksburg
Stephen Phelps (Sr.), Vicksburg
Toby Stock (Sr.), Vicksburg
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Page 20 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 OBITUARIES www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
Rodney
Rutowske
Jan. 31, 1934 — Dec. 9, 2020
Rodney G. Rutkowske, 86, of
Niles, passed away at Riveridge
Rehabilitation & Healthcare on
Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020.
He was born on Jan. 31, 1934,
in Benton Harbor, to the late Ed
and Marie (Martin) Rutkowske.
After graduating from Ben-
ton Harbor High School in
1952, Rodney enlisted in the
U.S. Navy serving his country
proudly during the Korean
War. Rodney wed Wanda Hind-
man in 1956. The two of them
were gifted with three children,
Bob, Alonda and Kyle. Rod-
ney and Wanda enjoyed many
years together prior until her
passing on March 20, 1968.
On Jan. 13, 1978, Rodney
married Virginia "Ginny" Ellis,
in Niles. She preceded him in
death in 2013.
Ronald Geer
Sept. 12, 1943 — Dec. 7, 2020
Ronald Henry Geer, 77, of
Niles, passed away on Mon-
day, Dec. 7, 2020, at Spec-
trum Health Lakeland, in St.
Joseph.
Funeral services were on
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020,
and was hosted at Bertrand
Bible Church with Reverend
Tony Slagel who officiated
the service. The burial was
in Bertrand Bible Church
Cemetery, Niles. Memorial
contributions may be made
to Bertrand Bible Church,
Rodney had a passion for
work. He worked most of his
career as a Store Manager at
National Tea Corporation. Af-
ter he retired he worked part
time for several years at Shel-
ton's Food Markets and even
at age 86 he found himself still
enjoying each day he was there.
He really enjoyed all of the peo-
ple he worked with.
Rodney was an avid reader
of the newspaper and always
1008 Ontario Rd., Niles, MI
49120. Online condolences
accepted at PikeFH.com.
kept up with current events.
He also looked forward to his
trips to Florida and Texas. Rod-
ney also spent many hours in
the garden and was a Chicago
Bears fan. Rodney always had a
special place in his heart for his
toy poodle, Lucy.
He was preceded in death
by his parents; and his wife,
Wanda; and more recent wife,
Ginny.
Rodney is survived by his
children, Bob (Linda) Rutkow-
ske, of Niles, Alonda (Scott)
Martin, of Sweeny, Texas,
and Kyle (Brenda) Rutkow-
ske, of Lake Jackson, Texas;
step children, Michael Ellis, of
Ron was born Sept. 12,
1943, in Niles, the son of the
late Henry and Cleo (Myers)
Geer.
On June 29, 1963, he mar-
ried the former Virginia
“Sue” Kimbrough and they
shared 57 years together.
He most recently worked
for the transportation de-
partment of Brandywine
Community Schools. In his
younger years, he played
roller hockey. Ron and Sue
enjoyed their Honda Gold
Wing and were members of
the Gold Wing Road Riders
Association. Ron learned
We’ll be there when you need us most
Niles, and Matthew Ellis (Mi-
chael) Stockton, of Florida:
seven grandchildren; and ten
great-grandchildren.
Rodney will be remembered
by most friends and family
for his jokes and quick-wit-
ted sense of humor. He will be
greatly missed by his entire
family.
Due to COVID restrictions,
a private family remembrance
service will be held at Brown
Funeral Home.
Those wanting to remember
Rodney with a contribution
are asked to consider Caring
Circle Hospice at 4025 Health
Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI
49085.
Memories of Rod may be
shared with his family at
BrownFuneralHomeNiles.
com.
Arrangements have been
entrusted to Brown Funeral
Home & Cremation Services,
Niles.
the automotive repair trade
from his dad, Hank and for
many years operated Ron’s
Radiator and Repair in Niles.
Survivors include his
wife, Sue; daughter, Dawn
(Rodney) Sherwood; grand-
daughter, Mindy Sherwood;
grandson, Mathew (Allison)
Sherwood.
Ron was also preceded
in death by a brother, Dale
Geer
Arrangements entrusted
to Pike Funeral and Cre-
mation Services, the Boyd
Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow
Hwy., in Bridgman.
Orville W.
‘Perkey’
Perkins
Oct. 20, 1931 — Dec. 8, 2020
Orville W. “Perkey”
Perkins, 89, passed away
on Dec. 8, 2020.
Surviving are his sons
Gary (Teresa) Perkins
and Ken Perkins, of Osce-
ola; and his daughter-in-
law, Tina (Mark) Cramer,
of Niles; 11 grandchil-
dren and 13 great grand-
children.
He was preceded in
death by his sons, Dan
and Rick Perkins; and his
sister, Sarah Hall.
Visitation will be two
hours prior to the 2
p.m. funeral service on
James Allen
Bracken
June 15, 1931 — Dec. 11, 2020
James Allen Brack-
en passed away Dec.
11, 2020, at River Ridge
Nursing and Rehabilita-
tion Center, in Niles.
He retired from Supe-
rior Steel Mill in Ben-
ton Harbor. He attended
and sang in the St. Mark
Baptist Church in Ben-
ton Harbor. He enjoyed
fishing, singing in the
choir, known among his
friends and family as
“the Governor or Jack
Rabbit” Bracken.
James is survived by
one son, Martin Brack-
en, of LaCenter, Ken-
tucky’ a daughter-in-law,
Sandra Bracken; and a
host of nieces and neph-
ews; four grandchildren,
LaShawnda Wright, Nik-
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Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020,
at Cruz Family Funeral
Home, in Osceola.
Interment and Military
honors will follow in Os-
ceola Cemetery. To read
Orville's full obituary,
please visit CruzFamily-
FH.com.
ki McCauley, Christo-
pher Thomas and Renee
Merriweather; several
great-grandchildren ;
and a host of family and
friends.
He was preceded in
death by his parents, Ben
and Amonia Johnson
Bracken; two sons, James
Bracken Jr. and Kenneth
Bracken; former wife and
his son’s mother, Wanda
Stone, of Ballard Coun-
ty; two brothers, Benja-
min Bracken and Buster
Bracken; four sisters,
Recee Mae Harris, Nina
Lynn Hale, Emma Mae
Bracken and Edna Lind-
sey.
A memorial service
will be at a later date.
Morrow Funeral Chap-
el is handling arrange-
ments. Messages of con-
dolence for the family
may be left at morrowfu-
neralchapel.com.
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com OBITUARIES Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 21
Dorothy
L. Hanson
Oct. 28, 1920 — Dec. 11, 2020
Dorothy L. Hanson, 100,
of Buchanan, passed away
peacefully on Friday, Dec.
11, 2020, in Stillwater,
Minnesota.
Dorothy was born Oct.
28, 1920, to George and Al-
ice (LeBoeuf) LeBlanc and
grew up in Cheboygan,
Michigan. She graduated
from Ferris State University
(then Institute) in Big Rap-
ids, Michigan, and was em-
ployed during World War
II by the War Department
as a secretary and cryptol-
ogist at Selfridge Air Force
Base, Michigan. There she
met her husband-to-be, Da-
vid Hanson, a fighter pilot.
They were married on Feb.
8, 1947, in Cheboygan, and
after four years at Michi-
gan Tech University, moved
to Buchanan, where they
raised their family.
Dorothy played the or-
gan at St. Anthony Catholic
Church and was a Meals-
on-Wheels volunteer for
many years. She was a
member of the 30 Club and
St. Anthony's Altar and Ro-
sary Society. After David
died on Aug. 4, 2007, she
moved to Boutwells Land-
ing, a retirement facility in
Stillwater, Minnesota, to be
near family.
Preceding her in death
were her parents, George
and Alice LeBlanc; and sib-
lings, George, John, Rosalie
Lozon, Joan Addy, David
LeBlanc and Mary Alice
LeBlanc. She is survived by
her son, David (Janet), of
Stillwater, Minnesota; Dr.
Mary Alice (Gregory) Gil-
lispie, of Falcon Heights,
Minnesota; Dr. Linda (Ray-
mond) Geis, of Fort Col-
lins, Colorado; Patricia
Hanson, of Ann Arbor; and
Barbara (Burdell) Clark, of
Ames, Iowa. Also surviving
are 12 grandchildren; 18
great-grandchildren; many
nieces and nephews; and
special family friend, Jack
McClellan.
Dorothy enjoyed mu-
sic, reading, needlework,
gardening and being with
friends. Most of all, she
loved being with her chil-
dren and their families. Me-
morial contributions may
be made to a charity of do-
nor's choice.
A Catholic funeral Mass
and burial will be celebrat-
ed in Buchanan in 2021.
Arrangements have been
entrusted to Swem Chapel,
Buchanan. Those wishing
to leave a condolence on-
line may do so at swem-
chapel.com.
Kelly ‘Kel Baby’
Bennett
July 8, 1965 — Dec. 13, 2020
Kelly Logan Bennett, "Kel
Baby," 55, of Niles, passed away
on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, at his
home.
He was born on July 8, 1965,
in Niles, to Rockford and Joyce
(Wall) Bennett.
Kelly was a devoted family
man, there wasn't anything he
wouldn't do for any of them.
He enjoyed working on cars,
riding his Harley, and listen-
ing to some great music. In
his free time, he liked to watch
Western movies and television
shows.
He was preceded in death
by his father, Rockford D. Ben-
nett; grandparents, Arland
and Opal Wall, Don and Lou-
ise Bennett.
Kelly is survived by his
mother, Joyce Bennett, of
Niles; siblings, Zelphia Quick,
of South Bend, Nancy Ferrell,
of Berrien Springs, Matt Ben-
nett, of Niles, Angela Kessick,
of Niles, and Cory Bennett, of
Niles; daughter, Belize Ben-
nett, of Niles; step-children,
Charles (Joey) Alvord, of Niles,
Fawn Schram, of Niles, Charles
Biggs, of Niles, Teila Biggs, of
Lake Placid, Florida, James
Biggs, of Dowagiac, Emily
Biggs, of Lake Placid, Florida;
18 step-grandchildren; and
one step-great-grandchild;
along with a host of nieces and
nephews.
A time of visitation will be
from 6 until 8 p.m. on Mon-
day, Dec. 21, 2020, at Brown
Funeral Home, 521 E. Main St.,
in Niles.
Due to the recent limit of
25 people at a time placed
on funerals by the Michigan
Department of Health and
Human Services, the family
asks that anyone wishing to
visit or see Kelly one last time
do so during the visitation
where people will be able to
walk through to pay their last
respects while socially distant.
The state of Michigan re-
quires all in attendance to
follow all guidelines including,
social distancing, mandato-
ry mask, and sanitizing. We
appreciate your assistance in
helping us to keep everyone
healthy in attendance.
Memorial contributions
may be made to his family, in
care of his sister, Zelphia or to
Brown Funeral Home, via the
website.
Condolences, photos, and
memories may be left for the
family at BrownFuneralHome-
Niles.com.
Arrangements have been
entrusted to Brown Funeral
Home & Cremation Services,
of Niles.

DEATH NOTICES
Norma Arnold, 89, of Niles, passed
away at her residence on Saturday
morning, Dec. 12, 2020. Arrange-
ments are pending and entrusted to
Brown Funeral Home & Cremation
Services, Niles.
James Bracker, 89, of Niles,
passed away on Friday, Dec. 11, 2020
at Riveridge Manor. Arrangements
are pending and entrusted to Brown
Funeral Home & Cremation Services,
Niles. BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Ralph Ward, 79, of Niles, died
Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020. He has
been cremated and will be reunit-
ed with his family in Oregon. Ar-
rangements have been entrusted
to Brown Funeral Home & Crema-
tion Services, of Niles. BrownFu-
neralHomeNiles.com.
Edsel Carter, 76, of Niles,
passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 15,
2020, at his home. Arrangements
are pending with Brown Funer-
al Home & Cremation Services.
BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Kelly L. Bennett, 55, of Niles,
passed away on Sunday, Dec. 13,
2020, at his home. Arrangements
are pending with Brown Funer-
al Home & Cremation Services.
BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Mary Crespo, 69, of Niles,
passed away Thursday, Dec. 10,
2020. Arrangements are pending
with Brown Funeral Home & Cre-
mation Services, Niles. BrownFu-
neralHomeNiles.com.
Charles A. Lawrence, 87, of Ed-
wardsburg, died Wednesday, Dec.
16, 2020. Arrangements are pend-
ing at Connelly Chapel Wagner
Family Funerals, Cassopolis.
Charles Lace, 82, of Dowagiac,
passed away on Thursday, Dec.
16, 2020, at The Timbers of Cass
County. Arrangements are pend-
ing with Brown Funeral Home &
Cremation Services, Niles. Brown-
FuneralHomeNiles.com.
Richard J. Cross, 95, of Mad-
isonville, Tennessee, formerly
of Dowagiac, passed away on
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020. Ar-
rangements are pending Brown
Funeral Home & Cremation Ser-
vices, Niles. BrownFuneralHome-
Niles.com.

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Page 22 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 OBITUARIES www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
Robert
D. Sherman
Aug. 6, 1931 — Dec. 11, 2020
Robert D. Sherman passed
away from complications
due to COVID-19 while in
the care of Spectrum health
on Friday, Dec 11, 2020.
In his last moments, some
loved ones were able to be
by his side.
Robert Sherman was born
Aug. 6, 1931, in Coopersville,
Michigan, in the back of a
Ford Model A car, as he so
often liked to tell anyone
who would listen.
“Bob,” as his friends knew
him or “Gramps” as his
many grandchildren and
great-grandchildren knew
him, was a man who enjoyed
the simple things. He was
happiest drinking Stroh’s
with his grandkids, fixing
(read as “breaking”) things
around the house and yard,
listening to Johnny Cash,
and being around family.
Gramps was sharp with a
joke, especially ones he had
picked up while hanging out
with his friends at breakfast,
or building the Miss Bu-
chanan float. Many of these
jokes were... inappropriate
to put it charitably. He liked
those kinds the best.
Bob served as part of the
Construction Brigade or a
C.B. (aka ”Seabee”) in the U.S.
Navy where he was mainly
stationed in Newfoundland
and Morocco, among a few
other locations. He spoke
positively about his mili-
tary service, and loved to
tell stories of his exploits
— some not fit for publish-
ing — to his grandkids and
great-grandkids.
After his military days
were done, Bob started
working at Michigan Bell in
1954 and retired from there
in 1991. He moved to Niles
in 1955 and married Chris-
tine Perkins. In 1957, he set
down roots in Buchanan. It
was in Buchanan that Bob
and Christine raised their
four girls — Pam, Linda,
Cheryl and Robin. He was
active in the Buchanan JC’s
for many years, working on
organizing, building, and
all aspects of the Miss Bu-
chanan pageant, even driv-
ing Miss Buchanan float in
the Blossomtime Parade —
something he always looked
forward to.
Always up for an adven-
Edsel L. Carter (Linda) Warren, Troy
(Darlene) Warren, Kevin
Jan. 2, 1944 — Dec. 15, 2020
(Wendy) Rousch, 22 grand-
Edsel Lamon Carter, children; 20 great-grand-
76, of Niles, passed away children; and one great-
peacefully, in his home, great-grandchild; and a
on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020, brother, Elmer Carter.
surrounded by his loving A memorial service will
family. be at 4 p.m. on Tuesday,
ture, Bob was the master
He was born in Possum Dec. 22, 2020, at Brown
of “Sherman Shortcuts”
Creek, a small community Funeral Home, 521 E. Main
making any trip last at least
in McCrory, Arkansas, to St. Niles, MI 49120.
an hour or more. Few com-
the late Leonard Delmar In keeping with the
plained, because the de-
and Louveenia (Free). At COVID-19 guidelines. The
tours often resulted in great
the age of five, he began state of Michigan requires
stories, doughnuts or some
working the family cotton by his parents; brothers, all in attendance to follow
other pit stop at a local shop
fields. Norm Carter, Doyle Carter, all guidelines including,
or restaurant.
Ed was bigger than life; Delmer Carter; twin sis- social distancing, manda-
Gramps loved his fami-
he always had a story to ters, Meva Lou Carter and tory mask, and sanitizing.
ly unconditionally. He was
tell, even if he had already Beva Lou Carter. We appreciate your assis-
a staple at his grandchil-
told you the same story the Ed worked for 40 years tance in helping us to keep
dren’s sporting events and
day before. as an over the road truck everyone in attendance
extra-curricular activities.
He enjoyed spending ev- driver. His job enabled him healthy.
There was never any hesita-
ery day of his retirement, in to see all 48 states and to Condolences, photos,
tion to help his children or
his home of 55 years, with travel throughout Canada. and memories may be left
other family members and
his loving wife, Della, of 45 Ed is survived by his for the family at BrownFu-
was often the one his family
years. He enjoyed working wife, Della Carter, of Niles; neralHomeNiles.com.
depended on most at their
in his yard and feeding all daughters, Kellee (Dana) Arrangements have
lowest moments. If you were
the Cass Street critters and Densmore; Kimberlee been entrusted to Brown
doing anything and you
birds. (James) Miller; Brandon Funeral Home & Crema-
needed somebody, Gramps
He was preceded in death Carter, Tony Warren, Mark tion Services, of Niles.
would be there.
Robert is survived by his
wife of 65 years, Christine;
his four daughters, Pam,
Linda, Cheryl and Robin;
and his 18 grandchildren
and great-grandchildren.
His death leaves a hole in
the lives of everyone who
knew him, just as he left a
smile on their faces in life.
And as Gramps would al-
ways say, “Don’t worry. In
100 years, we’ll all be dead
anyway.”
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com OBITUARIES/PUBLIC SAFETY Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 23

Norma Arnold in caring both for her friends (Jon) Medlin, Michelle (Steve) CASS COUNTY SENTENCINGS
June 12, 1931 — Dec. 12, 2020 and family. Her grandchildren Hubbard; great-grandchildren,
and great-grandchildren held a Brendon, Kylie, (Andrew), Ava, • Laron Domo-
Norma J. Arnold, 89, of Niles, very special place in her heart. Brayden, Bree, Braxton, Cory, nique-Wynn Hill, 22, of
passed away Saturday, Dec. 12, When visits occurred Norma's (Erika), Michael, (Alex) and Riverside Terrace in Ben-
2020, at her home surrounded eyes twinkled and her face lit Nathan; her great-great-grand- ton Harbor, pleaded guilty
by loved ones. up. Norma had a large extend- daughter, Adilynn; and her sib- to larceny from a person
She was born in Niles to the ed family including many niec- lings, Lena (Dale) Young and and was sentenced to 18
late Raymond and Martha es and nephews she enjoyed Margie (Gene) Sherwood, both months’ probation, cred-
(Blake) Morris on June 12, 1931, visiting with. of Niles. it for 21 days served and
and was also raised by her She is preceded in passing In recent months she was $2,148 in fines and costs.
step-mother, Phyllis Morris. by her husband of 31 years, given exceptional care by her The incident occurred
On Aug. 23, of 1986, she wed Donald Arnold; her parents; granddaughter, Michelle; and March 27 when he and
Donald Arnold at a ceremony, son, Richard Katterheinrich; her family whom she loved be- two others stole items
in Niles, they enjoyed many and her step-daughter, Gayle ing surrounded by. including a toolbox and
years of marriage until Don's friends. Norma was a member Arnold; her siblings, Richard Those wishing to make a marijuana from a person
passing in 2018. of the Niles chapter of the Red Morris, Mary Graham, June memorial donation in honor Laron
in Silver Creek Township.
Domonique-Wyan Hill
Shortly after graduating Hat Society, attended month- Standiford, Marie Wentland, of Norma have been asked to • Bradley Eugene Stager,
Niles High School, class of ly Rummy Q games, a lifetime Lee Morris, George Morris and consider New Journey United 23, of unknown address, obstructing police where
‘49, she took a job as a phone member of the Niles Elks Ray Morris. Methodist Church (former- pleaded guilty to stealing he was given credit for 80
switchboard operator at the Lodge #1322 as well as Wesley Norma is survived by her ly known as Wesley United a financial transaction de- days served. He must pay
Bell Building. Norma and Don United Methodist Church, now children, Robert Katterhein- Methodist Church), 302 Cedar vice and was sentenced to $1,848 in fines and costs.
ran Don's Bar in Union Pier New Journey United Method- rich, of Edwardsburg, Randy Street, Niles, MI 49120. 270 days in jail with cred- The incident occurred
and wintered in Florida for ist Church. Christmas always Katterheinrich, also of Ed- Cremation has taken place it for 110 days served. He on Sept. 29 on Amerihost
many years where their cir- seemed like such a magical wardsburg, Debbie (Tim) Bar- and a memorial service will be must pay $1,698 in fines Drive in Dowagiac.
cle of friends grew. She loved time of the year for Norma es- tak, of Niles, and Greg Arnold, at a later date. and costs and $17.91 in • Mark Stephen Woods,
to get dressed up and attend pecially since shopping, one also of Niles. She will also be Arrangements have been restitution. The incident 59, of Dutch Settlement
dinner parties, get-together’s of her favorite hobbies was missed by her grandchildren, entrusted to Brown Funeral occurred Jan. 27 in Mar- Road in Dowagiac, plead-
and lunch dates with her girl- involved. She took great pride April (Troy) Meek, Rebecca Home & Cremation, Niles. cellus when he stole a ed guilty to discharge of a
purse out of a car to get firearm in a building and
money to support his drug was sentenced to two
Kalamazoo man pleads guilty for killing man in Dowagiac habit. years’ probation, credit
• Joseph Noah VanKirk, for five days served and
By DEBRA HAIGHT Collins ended up being shot in the chest more tragic. The person killed left two 35, of Redfield Street in $2,478 in fines and costs.
Leader Publications contributor and killed. sons who will never see their father Niles, pleaded guilty to The incident occurred
Penar has not taken a plea agreement again, while the defendant will live to a attempted assault with a Aug. 24 at his home when
CASSOPOLIS — The Kalamazoo man and faces upcoming court dates of Jan. ripe old age.” dangerous weapon and he discharged a gun to-
who killed a man in Dowagiac earlier 4 for a settlement conference and Jan. Defense attorney James Miller said was sentenced to one ward police officers. The
this year will spend the next 43 years in 12 for a jury trial. Due to COVID pan- “There is no bright spot in this case,” year in jail with credit for charge will be reduced to
prison. demic restrictions, the jury trial would Miller said. “It’s tragic but he’s stepped 80 days served and for a misdemeanor if he’s suc-
Justin Robert-Gabriel Carlton was likely not start until a later date in 2021. up and accepted responsibility for his attempted resisting and cessful on probation.
sentenced Friday in Cass County Circuit “We live in a country where life has actions. This was a horrendous event
Court for the Jan. 27 shooting death of value whether someone is a prince or for everyone including the community.”
Michael Collins. pauper,” said Cass County Prosecutor Carlton apologized to Collins’ fami-
Carlton, 41, of Kalamazoo, pleaded Victor Fitz. “There are laws to protect ly as well as to his own children. “I do
guilty to second degree murder earlier people from violence.” apologize for the loss of their father, if
this fall and was sentenced Friday to 43 “On Jan. 27, this defendant acted not I could take it back, I would do it in a
years to 70 years in prison. He has cred- like a man but a complete coward with heartbeat,” he said. “I also apologize to
it for 325 days already served and must his partner,” he added. “Whether one my children, they shouldn’t have to suf-
pay $1,048 in fines and costs. A dozen was the leader or the other, when it fer for me … Our intent was to get the
or more other felony charges were dis- came to pulling the trigger, Mr. Carlton money back he had stolen from us. He
missed as part of the agreement. pulled it. The victim was shot and killed rushed us and I took his life.”
The January incident occurred at a and the others were tied up and robbed. “You are 41 with four children,” Cass
home on Louise Street in the city of “At age 41, instead of working and County Circuit Judge Mark Herman
Dowagiac. Carlton and his co-defen- setting a good example for his four chil- said. “When I look at your life, you have
dant, Jay Vincent Penar, 39, of White dren, he traveled to Dowagiac, put a a two-year college degree. It’s a shame
Pigeon, went to the Collins home to get mask on and then went inside the home all of that was thrown away. You said
back money and possessions that be- and killed Mr. Collins,” he said. “He and you expect to die in prison, but you
longed to Penar. Collins and three other Mr. Penar endangered the other people have an opportunity to be released on
occupants of the home were tied up and involved and it could have been even parole after 43 years.”
Page 24 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 COMICS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

COMICS PUZZLES
ADAM
& ALLEY OOP

ARLO & JANIS BIG NATE

BORN LOSER FRANK & ERNEST

GRIZZWELLS THATABABY
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com COMICS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 25
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
wihtout repetition.

DIFFICULTY RATING: 5/5

REALITY CHECK

BREVITY

HEART OF THE CITY

Page 26 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 www.leaderpub.com Niles Daily Star
Page 26 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 CLASSIFIEDS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Employment Job Opportunities Job Opportunities Job Opportunities Job Opportunities Job Opportunities
LOCAL BOX TRUCK NOW HIRING
DRIVER NEEDED MULTIPLE OPENINGS
26’ BOX TRUCK, NEW $12/hr plus Overtime!!
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•FULL TIME **PAID WEEKLY**
•MUST BE ABLE TO APPLY at:
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•REQUIRES DRIVER TO 27260 Max St,
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•VALID CHAUFFEUR
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NOW HIRING!!! ***HOURLY,401K,
***VACATION/HOLIDAY PAY
Full-Time & Part-Time Apply in person
Direct Care Workers 27328 May St
in Southwest Michigan Edwardsburg, MI
Hourly wages starting
at $10.25/hr
LQFOXGLQJEHQH¿WV
APPLY TODAY!!
269-427-8400
beaconspecialized.org
Kay Manufacturing
is Drug Free and Fapco in West Buchanan Hiring
Do you have
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about job opportunities •3rd Shift(Midnight-8am) Monday-Friday 7am-3:30pm
at your business. Night Shifts:
Pay Scale: Monday-Friday 3:30pm-12am
Based on Experience plus *ISO 9001:2015 Certified*
'HQLHG%HQHˋWV" Advancement opportunities,
Shift Compensation,
8QDEOH7R:RUN" &RPSUHKHQVLYH%HQH¿W medical benefits, 401k, etc.
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We Can Help! Package includes: Call 800-782-0167
Medical options including HSA
option,life insurance options, Put your ad here
AD&D,accident insurance, call 269-591-6105.
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FSA,DSA,Dental,Vision,
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BENEFITS North American
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Insurance 1.5 times annual
For Over 35 Years!
North American Moulding Weekend Workers Postle Postle Extrusion, a
1
salary,STD,LTD
Do You Qualify
For Disability Edwardsburg, MI Extrusion growing aluminum
%HQHˉWV"&DOO)RU Thor Motor Coach is extrusion company
A FREE Evaluation
Accepting applications for the Positions Currently hiring for our locations in located in southwest
2 Available: Postle Extrusion,a
Assisting With:
- Initial Applications following positions: Elkhart,Wakarusa,Bristol Michigan, is now hiring
'HQLHG&ODLPV
Day & Night Shift. leading manufacturer of
- Hearings
Our night shift works •CNC Machine Operators aluminum extrusions for the following
Openings include:
3 located in Cassopolis,MI, positions:
:H6LPSOLI\7KH
Process & Strive (4) 10-hour shifts. Pay range between •Metal
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Approval.* $15.60-$22.00 •Shelling
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•Machine Feeders & Catchers •Building Maintenance •Cabinet Shop weekend opportunities. -1st, 2nd & 3rd Shifts
Pay range between
•Plumbing Looking for extra money?
•Piece Rate Positions
(800) 208-4396 (You control what you make!
$12.20-$16.00
•Electrical We have just the work for
you! Work Friday,
We offer competitive
wages, excellent health
Some make $24/hour) •Body Repair
•Material Handler
Bill Gordon & Associates, a nationwide practice, represents clients before the Social Security Administration.
Member of the TX & NM Bar Associations. Mail: 1420 NW St Washington D.C. Office: Broward County, FL. Services
may be provided by associated attorneys licensed in other states. * The process for determining
•Final Finish and Floors Saturday,and/or Sunday. EHQH¿WVNDQGOLIH
each applicant’s disability benefits varies greatly, and can take upwards of two years.
•CDL Class A Drivers Pay range between Work 8hrs,10hrs,or 12hrs. insurance
$15.60-$18.00 :HDUHÀH[LEOHDERXWWKH
Raise your hand if you Must be able to pass pre-hire •Experience preferred
•Will train the ideal days and the hours for Apply in person at
want your business to drug test/background check. •Quality Technicians weekend work. 201 N. Edwards St.
%HQH¿WVSDLGKROLGD\YDFDWLRQ Pay range between candidate with a solid
make LESS money next health/dental/vision/life work history and Cassopolis, MI
$15.60-$22.00 If you are interested in Apply online at:
year. LQVXUDQFHNUHWLUHPHQW good attendance
joining the Postle Team, www.postledistributors.com
Send resume or apply in
•Manufacturing Engineer apply in person at and click on
We didn’t think you would. Do you
Pay range between Thor Motor Coach will
need to successfully market on a tight SHUVRQDWWKHFRUSRUDWHRI¿FH produce the highest quality 201 N.Edwards St. Employment, or send
27263 May St $70k-$100k Cassopolis,MI 49031,
budget? Leader Publications Classified recreational vehicles. resume to
Marketplace has customizable PO Box 600 apply online at: HR@postledistributors.com
(GZDUGVEXUJ0, Email your resume with NOBODY will build them
programs available to fit any budget.
better! www.postledistributors.com
)D[ your interest to: and click on Do you have available jobs?
Email: hr1006@nafpinc.com HR@KayMfg.com
DON’T WAIT! Apply on-line today: Employment, or Call 269-591-6105 to let others know
Call TODAY EOE thormotorcoach.com/jobs send resume to: about job opportunities
269-591-6105
Put your ad here
EOE HR@postledistributors.com at your business.
call 269-591-6105.
Niles Daily Star www.leaderpub.com Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 27
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com CLASSIFIEDS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 27
Trucks, SUVs
Job Opportunities Job Opportunities Merchandise Sporting Goods Apartments
& Vans
NOW HIRING FULL-TIME!!! 8 Foot Pool Table/ 1124 Fort Street, Niles
Warehouse Associate Ping Pong Table Upstairs Apartment
Position & Delivery Driver/ Furniture Like new.
$800 firm
all utilities paid.
$460 month/$600 deposit
Installer position
•Each job $14hr, 40-44/hrs wkly & Appliances (269)357-6685 No smoking, No pets.
269-684-2335.
•Must have previous exp. and
weekend availability
Want to Buy
Apply In-Store:
3108 S.11th St,
Merchandise
Niles,MI-49120
Or Send Resume: WANTED 1988 Chevy K-1500
Sales@camdenappliance.com Truck, 4x4, Orange with
STANDING TIMBER Snowplow, Tilt, Air,
Large Michigan lumber Sliding Rear Window, Tow
Production/Assembly manufacturer seeking
Workers needed. Package, Excellent Tires
Full time plus hours land owners with 25 or PRICE REDUCED $2,995
per week. Saturday more mature hardwood Call Greg: 269-262-6448
hours required when Security Officers trees to sell
needed. Hourly, Full & Part-Time Openings
Benton Harbor & South Bend Call: (517)566-8061
attendace bonus, BILL’S APPLIANCES
holiday-vacatiom pay, Areas qualityhardwoodsinc.com
401K with company IDEAL FOR RETIREES
match, insurance Please call (574)232-9653 Used/New, Scratch &
Dent, Appliance
Notices
Apply in person from 11am-4pm Monday-Friday
EOE
27328 May St 1420 S.11th St,Niles
Transportation
Edwardsburg, MI
(269)340-5952
Need to find
the right employee? Refrigerators
Stoves Lost & Found 2007 Freightliner
WE CAN Washer/Dryers
Microwaves Lost Wallet with black clip, lost
Automobiles Columbia 120 Semi with
sleeper, runs good, no DPF

HELP. Freezer at the dump on 12/4 at 10:46am. RU'()ÀXLG0HUFHGHV

2006 Chevy Van Express. Diesel Engine, 450HP
269-695-3139
Reach the county for less using Leader
Dishwashers Good condition. $6,000 or best
approx. 600k miles on a
Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm offer. Phone 269-449-0865,
Publications classifieds. Need a quick QHZFUDWHGPRWRUZLWK
Saturday:10am-4pm
quote? Submit your ad online at
LeaderPub.com. Call 269-591-6105.
Sunday: Closed
Landlord Discounts!!
Real Estate QHZFDPEHDULQJVQHZ
WXUERDQGDLUFRPSUHVVRU
that offers good fuel
Put your ad here HFRQRP\VSHHGQHZ
call 269-591-6105. FOXWFKJRRGWLUHVGXDO
Wanted: Real 100-gallon tanks, air
Miscellaneous suspension with new bags
Estate 2011 Chevy Malibu LT,
Auctions & Sales
and suspension, leather
For Sale 4 Door, Power Windows,
Locks, Cruise, Onstar,
seats, air, power windows,
SRZHUORFNVORDGHG
The Restoration Station Looking for a 3-4 BR House Steering Wheel Controls. JRRGFRQGLWLRQ
New and used items to Rent to Own, preferably Good Runner.
in the country but willing to PRICED REDUCED!!
Bono de Contratación Antiques/appliances/decor, $6,995.00 $16,995
discuss city. Contact
Una empresa de
extrusión de aluminio en
Estate Sales furniture/tools/toys,
plus more. (269)357-9079
Call: 269-262-6448 PHONE CALLS ONLY,
Estate Clean-outs. NO TEXT
crecimiento ubicada en 1987 Cadillac Allante
Handyman Services Hard Top Convertible PLEASE CALL GREG

Rentals
el suroeste de Michigan, Online auction @ (269)262-6448
Both tops. Automatic.
ahora está http://therestorationstation. Must sell. $2,000
contratando para los myshopify.com 269-684-8788
siguientes puestos: 814 State Street
Cassopolis
•Trabajo General 269-845-5274
•Primer, Segundo y Apartments
Tercer Turno
Raise your hand if you
Ofrecemos salarios want your business to 2010 Dodge Caravan,
competitivos, excelentes make LESS money next 6 Cylinder, Front Wheel
EHQH¿FLRVGHVDOXGN year. Drive, 3rd Row Seat,
y seguro de vida. Double Sliding Doors,
Cruise, Tilt, Power
Aplicar en Persona:
We didn’t think you would. Do you
need to successfully market on a tight Motorcycles & Windows, Locks,
201 N.Edwards St. AM/FM CD, Very Clean.
Cassopolis,MI 49031,
budget? Leader Publications Classified
Marketplace has customizable
ATV’s $6,995.00
Aplicar en línea en: programs available to fit any budget. Call: 269-262-6448
www.postledistributors.com Looking for a home? 1999 Kawasaki Voyager 12
y haga clic en empleo, Touring Bike New Carlisle Area. Do you have available jobs?
DON’T WAIT! Look in our classifieds section and Good condition. 80k road miles. Call 269-591-6105 to let others know
o envíe un currículum a Call TODAY ¿UP&DOO
learn of great deals for you about job opportunities
HR@postledistributors.com 269-591-6105 and your family. RU at your business.
Page 28 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 www.leaderpub.com Niles Daily Star
Page 28 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 CLASSIFIEDS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star

Services Construction Junk Removal Legal Notices

was mailed or until 7 days af-
Legal Notices Public Notices
y
Michiana Masonry AMERICAN TRASH LEGAL NOTICE &LW\RI1LOHVLQWKH2I¿FHRIWKH
ter this notice was personally Utilities Manager, 333 N. Sec-
& Construction Trash & Junk Hauling served. ond Street, Suite 201, Niles,
PUBLICATION NOTICE
Caregiving All your Masonry needs!
Chimney Cleaning
The actions you may take in-
clude:
Michigan 49120 until 2:30 PM
•Appliances•Truck•Trailer In the Matter of the Revoca- (local time), Thursday, Janu-
Insured & Bonded •Labor•Rental Properties 8SRQSD\LQJD¿OLQJIHH¿OLQJ ble Self Trust Agreement of ary 14, 2021 at which time and
KARE SERVICES Senior Discounts a petiton for formal proceed- place the proposals will be pub-
Compassionate •Demo Clean-Outs ings to appoint a personal Thaddeus Russell Stephens,
269-362-1566 a/k/a Russ Stephens, dated licly opened virtually and read
Home Care Services Veteran Owned representative. aloud for the ground’s mainte-
March 8, 1999
(269)684-1984 Company 8SRQSD\LQJD¿OLQJIHH¿OLQJ Social Security No. X X X-X nance work at the City’s Utili-
(574)292-2900 an application for informal ap-
email: kmkaidan@aol.com Drywall Services 574-904-8760
GoAmericanTrash.com pointment of yourself as per- X-8703 ties Department’s property for
the 2021, 2022, and 2023 grow-
www.KAREService.com sonal representative provided ing seasons.
TO ALL INTERESTED PER-
you have a higher priority to SONS:
be appointed. The proposal and contract
Carpet & Flooring Roofing and Guttering Contacting an attorney for as-
sistance in representing you
Your interest in the property of
the deceased may be barred forms, as well as the plans and
or affected by this Notice. VSHFL¿FDWLRQV XQGHU ZKLFK WKH
in any proceeding you wish to ZRUN ZLOO EH GRQH DUH RQ ¿OH
¿OHLQWKHFRXUW and may be examined at the
Bill’s Roof Repair NOTICE: Please take notice
The court will not be able to Assistant Utilities Manager’s
Residential & Commercial that Thaddeus Russell Ste-
provide you with any legal 2I¿FH  6 WK 6W 1LOHV
•Repairs•New Roofs phens, a/k/a Russ Stephens
DGYLFH LQ FRPSOHWLQJ RU ¿OLQJ Michigan. Copies thereof may
•Shingles•Flat Roofs died on December 4, 2020.
the forms. be obtained from the Utilities
•Metal/Rubber•Flashing At the time of death, there
2-28-2020 Department.
•Chimney Repairs were no assets requiring ad-
•Vent Pipes•Gutters•Sidings ministration through Court
Michael K. Purdy, 1335 N. All bidders are required to sign
proceedings. All assets were
Lifetime Warranty on All FRONT STREET, NILES, jointly held, had designed D FHUWL¿FDWH WKDW WKH\ ZLOO FRP-
Labor Performed MICHIGAN 49120 269-362- succession or were part of ply with all Federal and State
Free Estimates 8023 non-discrimination laws and
The Revocable Self Trust
Call Us Now!! Agreement of Thaddeus Rus- regulations.
Sean W. Drew, P33851, 302
269-591-5700 Sycamore Street, PO Box sell Stephens, a/k/a Russ
$ FHUWL¿HG FKHFN RU ELGGHU¶V
Visit us at: 880, Niles, MI 49120, 269- Stephens. Conrad A. Larson
bond in an amount of not less
billsroofrepair.com is the Trustee. The deceased
683-5121 WKDQ ¿YH  SHUFHQW RI DQ
and Facebook!! lived at 316 Liberty Street,
Need to find
the right employee?
WE CAN HELP.
Reach the county for less using Leader
Publications classifieds. Need a quick
quote? Submit your ad online at
LeaderPub.com. Call 269-591-6105.
Concrete Work
Buchanan, MI 49107. DPRXQWHTXDOWRRQHWKLUG
Niles Daily Star: of the total amount of the pro-
Creditors of the deceased are
Dec. 19, 2020 posal will be required. Pro-
QRWL¿HGWKDWDOOFODLPVDJDLQVW
EST/PURDY, S. posals submitted without the
Septic Tank Service the deceased will be forever
DSSURSULDWHFHUWL¿HGFKHFNRU
barred unless presented to
Put your ad here LEGAL NOTICE the Trustee or the attorney for bidder’s bond will not be ac-
call 269-591-6105. the Trust or to both within four cepted.
Deer Path Excavating STATE OF MICHIGAN (4) months of the date of pub-
Septic Repair and all other The City reserves the right to
Home Improvement Excavating needs!!
PROBATE COURT
COUNTY OF BERRIEN
lication of this notice. Notice
is further given that the Trust reject any or all proposals, to
Please Call: 269-208-5180 NOTICE TO CREDITORS assets will then be assigned waive irregularities in propos-
Decedent’s Estate to persons designated in the als, and to accept the proposal
HOME REPAIRS & FILE NO. 2020-0827-DE-R Trust. that, in the opinion of the City
REMODELING
Public Notices Dated: December 16, 2020 Council, is most advantageous
Over 30yrs Experience! Estate of Charles W. Smith, to the City.
•Kitchens •Bathrooms
•Porches •Decks
Jr., Deceased
Date of birth: 08/30/1932
Conrad A. Larson, Trustee
12585 N. Red Bud Trail No bid shall be withdrawn after
Buchanan, MI 49107 the opening of bids for a peri-
•Windows •Doors RG RI WKLUW\  GD\V DIWHU WKH
BRADY CONCRETE TO ALL CREDITORS:*
•Siding •Window Wrapping
Specializing in: ‡)DVFLD 6RI¿W Legal Notices NOTICE TO CREDITORS:
The decedent, Charles W.
John R. Colip, Esq. (P25250)
Attorney for Trust
scheduled time of receiving
bids.
•Flat work of all types •Mobile Welding Smith, Jr., died 08/18/2020. 12 Longmeadow Village Dr.,
•Seawalls•Pole Barn Floors Call:Randy Suite 100 If you have questions, please
•Stamped Concrete LEGAL NOTICE FRQWDFW 'HUHN *RUGRQ DW 
269-782-3139 Creditors of the decedent Niles, MI 49120
•Bobcat Services DUH QRWL¿HG WKDW DOO FODLPV Phone: (269) 695-3849 H[W
269-208-9838 STATE OF MICHIGAN against the estate will be for-
Free Estimates, Insured
Fast, Dependable Service bondhomeimprovements.com PROBATE COURT ever barred unless presented Niles Daily Star: Join the Zoom Meeting to
COUNTY OF BERRIEN view the bid opening as fol-
to Denise L. Dircks, person- Dec. 19, 2020
269-445-3349 or Rafter C Customs
NOTICE OF INTENT al representative, or to both TRUST/STEPHENS lows:
269-591-0100 TO REQUEST the probate court at 811 Port
INFORMAL APPOINTMENT Join Zoom Meeting
Interior remodel/repairs St., 4th Floor, St. Joseph, MI
OF PERSONAL Selling your home? KWWSVXVZHE]RRP
Exterior Siding/windows/ 49085 and the personal rep-
REPRESENTATIVE Advertise here and sell it faster. XVM"
doors/skylights and MORE! resentative within 4 months
FILE NO. 2020-0755-DE-R Call Classifieds at 269-591-6105. pwd=Z3MyaFE4NEFMVXpIS
after the date of publication of
Ready to work for you! this notice. VVaS0ZaWkVKQT09
Estate of SHIRLEY DEAN
30+ years experience PURDY 11/12/2019
Public Notices 0HHWLQJ,'
Call Jim and Ashley Denise L. Dircks, 1905 River- 3DVVFRGH.G6X
I, MICHAEL K. PURDY, in-
Cassopolis and dale Drive, South Bend, Indi-
tend to request my informal PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF NILES
surrounding areas ana 46616, 574-889-7526
appointment as personal Derek Gordon
(269) 259-5499 representative of the estate. INVITATION TO BID
Thomas M. Walz, P74044, Assistant Utilities Manager
A copy of the application is CITY OF NILES
509 W. Washington Street,
Looking for attached. This notice is be- South Bend, Indiana, 574- UTILITIES DEPARTMENT Niles Daily Star: Dec. 19, 2020
ing served upon each person GROUNDS MAINTENANCE BIDS/GROUNDS MAINT
a home? whose right to an appoint- 232-5988
ment is prior or equal to my Sealed proposals marked Do you have available jobs?
Look in our classifieds section and Niles Daily Star:
own. The court will not act “Bids for Grounds Mainte- Call 269-591-6105 to let others know
learn of great deals for you Dec. 19, 2020
upon my application until 14 nance” will be received by the about job opportunities
EST/SMITH, JR., C.
and your family. days after the date this notice at your business.
 Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com EDWARDSBURG ARGUS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 29

New title sought

“I’m emotional just talking about
it,” she said.
 Now that the ISD board has offi-
- cially voted to change its name, the
,
hard work of choosing what it will
- now be called is to begin. Several dif-
- ferent names were tossed out during
Wednesday’s meeting, including Prai-

Lewis Cass ISD board votes to change district name

- rie Heritage ISD and Prairie/Lakes
-
r ISD, with board members saying they
t By SARAH CULTON
d sarah.culton@leaderpub.com

e CASSOPOLIS — After months of
s deliberation, the Lewis Cass Interme-

y diate School District has decided to
change its name. However, what its
new name will be has yet to be seen.
Wednesday, the Lewis Cass ISD
- board met via Zoom. Among a list of
e
d several other discussion items was a
resolution to accept a recommenda-
tion from a specialized committee to
V
change the name of the ISD due to its
association with Lewis Cass, a former
ty consensus of Lewis Cass’ role in the
policy on the removal of Native Amer-
icans from their land and a unani-
mous consensus of his political posi-
tion for southern states to continue
with owning slaves,” reads a letter of
recommendation from the commit-
tee regarding the name change. “We
do not intend to rewrite or change the
significance of Lewis Cass in Michi-
gan history. Rather this recommen-
dation is meant to acknowledge the
importance of the Native American
and African American community in
Cass County. Given the ISD’s role of
the name of Lewis Cass ISD has been
on the board’s agenda since July. In
late June, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
removed Lewis Cass’ name from a
state office building due to evidence
of him being a slave owner, support-
ing states’ right to choose whether
or not to outlaw slavery and imple-
menting policies under President
Jackson that relocated and harmed
Native Americans.
In September, the ISD board
formed a committee to specifical-
ly look into whether or not a name
change for the district was warranted.
Skip Dyes, a committee member,
said he believed a name change for
the district would be more welcom-
ing to students of all backgrounds.
“We are trying to remove all barri-
ers,” Dyes, an African American man,
said. “I think the name change is
something that will be more inclusive
of what the ISD is doing. Everyone
will feel like they are a part of the ISD.
All my life, I’ve sometimes felt like I’m
outside of the group, and I thought it
would be best if we could all feel in-
cluded.”
Julie Dye, a fellow committee mem-
wanted to choose a name that reflect-
ed both the history and geography of
Cass County. Ultimately, the board de-
cided to table affirming a new name
until its next meeting in January.
“I’m sure we will have a lot of dis-
cussions over the next month,” said
Kevin Anderson, ISD board president.
Once a new name is chosen and
approved by the board, it must be
submitted to and approved by the
Michigan Department of Education
before notifications of the name
change can be sent to several agen-
cies, including the Internal Revenue
Service. While Holcomb said there
is no official timeline in place for the
 territorial governor of Michigan. Cass providing educational services to all Superintendent Brent Holcomb said ber and citizen of the Pokagon Band name change, he said the process
-
ran for president in 1848 and served the children in Cass County, regard- the committee was made up of in- of Potawatomi Indians, agreed. She could last until the start of the fall
e as secretary of war under then-Presi- less of race, this change aligns with dividuals from diverse backgrounds added that many members of the Po- 2021 school year.
U
- dent Andrew Jackson. the ISD’s mission.” and considered arguments both for kagon Band had supported the move “This is a process,” he said. “It is not
“This decision is based on a majori- The idea of potentially changing and against a name change. to change the ISD’s name. going to happen overnight.”
o
o Cassopolis
Cassopolis Family Clinic
l 261 M-62 North, Cassopolis, MI 49031
y Medical (269) 445-3874
Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.,
Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.,
Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

- Dental (269) 228-8500

 Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.,
g Fri. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Phones Only)

Pharmacy (269) 228-8505

Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.,
Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Ranger Wellness Center

22721 Diamond Cove Street, Cassopolis, MI 49031
o (269) 445-WELL (9355)
- See website for current hours.

Niles
Niles Community Health Center
 1951 Oak Street, Niles, MI 49120
Medical (269) 262-4749
Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.,
Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.,
Sat. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Obstetrics & Gynecology (269) 683-0300
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Behavioral Health (269) 665-8800
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Pharmacy (269) 665-8900

Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.,
Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Niles Community Health Center Dental

Our Family. Caring For Yours.
122 Grant Street, Niles, MI 49120
www.cassfamilyclinic.org (269) 262-4364
Cassopolis Family Clinic Network is an Mon. - Thurs. 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
equal opportunity provider and employer.
Page 30 • Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 EDWARDSBURG ARGUS www.leaderpub.com | Niles Daily Star
Waiting
for justice
Delayed jury trials leave victims lacking closure
By DEBRA HAIGHT
Leader Publications Contributor
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — The delay
in holding court proceedings caused by
the COVID-19 pandemic this year hasn’t
just disrupted docket scheduling and re-
leased some defendants from jail with
bond reductions; it has also meant justice
delayed for those who have been victims
of crime.
Court officials in both Berrien and Cass
counties began delaying court proceed-
ings in March at the direction of the State
Court Administrative Office and have
not been able to get back to normal since
then. Berrien County was able to conduct
jury trials in September and October
before shutting them down again. Cass
County never got to that point.
For crime victims, that has meant pre-
paring to have their day in court and tell-
ing their story only to have that day put
off for weeks — if not months. The stress
of being in limbo only adds to what they
have already had to go through, accord-
ing to local prosecutors.
Area prosecutors say that this pandem-
ic has made it even more imperative that
they continue to touch base with victims
to make sure they are aware of what is
going on and what is coming next. The
prosecutors’ offices in both counties have
victim witness advocates who work with
victims throughout the process from ar-
raignments to verdicts.
“It’s been a major challenge for victims
with all the delays,” Cass County Pros-
ecutor Victor Fitz said. “They say that
justice delayed can be justice denied and
it’s true. It creates an additional stress in
their lives.”
“When victims have repeatedly antici-
pated court hearings and meetings with
prosecutors, it can create battle fatigue
in them when everything keeps getting
delayed,” he added. “It’s not necessarily
anyone’s fault, but it’s a reality.”
He said he hopes that people remem-
ber what crime victims are going through
during this pandemic.
“We are really in an era when every-
thing is focused on the defendants and
not on the victims and that’s backwards,”
he said.
Fitz noted that normally a criminal
case can take up to a year to resolve, from
the time someone is charged to when
there is a verdict and judgment.
“A major case is usually resolved in
a year and other cases in less time than
that,” he said.
He said the perspective is much dif-
ferent for defendants and victims when
it comes to the effects of the pandemic.
While many defendants may be glad to be
able to put off their day in court, it’s the
opposite for victims. Victims end up be-
ing in limbo and not getting any closure.
“One thing we have learned is persever-
ance,” Fitz said. “We’re not abandoning
cases or forgetting the victims. We’re ac-
tually having more contact with the vic-
tims during this time and they continue
to be determined.
“We regularly touch base with the vic-
tims to reassure them that their cases
will be prosecuted vigorously,” he added.
“The victims can get tired of waiting and
it’s up to us to continue to be supportive
of them. When we get out of the eye of the
hurricane, we can move forward.”
The oldest case his office is currently
dealing with is that of George Field, the
former Southwestern Michigan College
instructor charged with criminal sexual
conduct, perjury and insurance fraud.
The incidents date back as far as 2015
and Field was charged in the fall of 2017.
That case has been delayed a number
of times over the last three years for a
variety of reasons, including the defense
attorney’s health issues and having to get
another judge to handle the case. Alle-
gan County Circuit Judge Roberts Kengis
is now presiding over the case and his
docket and responsibilities have to be
taken into consideration.
The Field trial had been set to start Jan.
11 and has now been postponed to start
April 12. Whenever it actually does take
place, it will be held in Cass County Cir-
cuit Court.
In Berrien County, Prosecutor Michael
Sepic agreed that this year has been un-
like any other. “Under normal circum-
stances, there’s not a bad congestion of
cases going through the system,” he said.
He noted that his office had a number
of cases pending in March that dated
back to late 2019. Most of those cases
have been put on hold with the Berrien
County Trial Court only able to conduct
trials for a short period of time in Sep-
tember and October before shutting
down again.
“We get calls from victims and wit-
nesses and we respond to them,” he said.
“Normally the judge sets the date for a
trial and we get subpoenas out. We did
some in September and October and
then they got canceled.”
Niles Daily Star | www.leaderpub.com EDWARDSBURG ARGUS Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 • Page 31
A different kind of seaweed
Former Lunker’s restaurant, bait shop building turns into provisioning center
By CHRISTINA CLARK
christina.clark@leaderpub.com
EDWARDSBURG — The former Lunk-
er’s building has some new tenants.
Atop the large sign at 26423 US-12 in
Edwardsburg, bearing bold letters still
spelling out the building’s former busi-
ness, a giant, green bass still leaps out of
the air and helps herald a new business
into the complex: Dr. A’s Re-Leaf Center.
The iconic fish will now mark a new
chapter in the “ichronic” location.
Stewart Ireland, owner of the new
adult-use and medical marijuana provi-
sioning center in Edwardsburg, was not
previously aware of the building’s back-
ground. He discovered its history when
he came to take a look at the building for
his business.
“We got down here, and as an angler,
I had never seen this building in my life,”
Ireland said. “My uncle told me about it.
I saw the fish and thought, ‘that’s really
cool.’”
The fish will stay, Ireland said.
Dr. A’s Re-Leaf Center will inhabit what
was once the bait shop in Lunker’s.
He is also planning to eventually give
back to the 8,500 square feet Dr. A’s Re-
Leaf Center will inhabit by eventually
installing a fish tank, and hanging up
framed photos of fishermen with their
trophies in front of the building from the
1970s.
“I’m not bringing the alligator back,
but my plan is that it would be nice if I
could bring back birds that speak,” Ire-
land said.
For now, the plan is to make sure the
space is open and ready for customers
and patients to be able to obtain the
product they desire.
Ireland is excited to bring his product
Stewart Ireland, owner of Dr. A’s
Re-Leaf Center, stands behind the
counter of the dispensary as it is being
prepared for its opening on Monday.
Ireland also owns Alvarez Cultivaiton
in Jackson, Michigan. (Leader photos/
CHRISTINA CLARK)
from Alvarez Cultivation. The cultivation
operation is located in Jackson, Michi-
gan, and is 25,000 square feet. He is excit-
ed to bring the company’s cannibis to the
Edwardsburg community.
“We will have a lot of our products,”
Ireland said. “I’m very customer orient-
ed. I will make sure we have a great cus-
tomer service.”
With the timeline speeding toward
opening, as long as all final inspections
are passed, Ireland said the plan was to
have provisioning center’s grand opening
on Monday, Dec. 21.
With cars being back in the parking lot
as Ireland’s staff puts the shop together,
he said people have stopped by to check
out what is happening at the popular
property, which is located on a well-trav-
eled highway. He is confident the loca-
tion will be beneficial to the dispensary.
“All the dispensary locations along the
border with Michigan you see a ton of out
of state business,” Ireland said.
Being just one of two marijuana dis-
pensaries approved for Edwardsburg,
Ireland said the process has taken about
six months from finding the location,
getting the approval from Edwardsburg
officials and readying the facility to open
on Monday.
Ireland himself is not a marijuana user.
He said his motivations for getting into
cultivation and provisioning were the
medical benefits he learned about and
had seen.
“I tried it a year ago,” Ireland said. “I ha-
ven’t touched it since. It was the first time
in my entire life. I was against it for years,
but got into the medical because that is
the way of the future for a lot of things. To
be in business, you sort of have to go with
the times and offer adult-use.”
Ireland said at least two of his business
partners are medical physicians.
Staff training is expected to take place
from Thursday through Saturday, with a
soft opening of Dr. A’s Re-Leaf Center on
Saturday just for staff members’ friends
and family so they can practice assisting
customers.
 Edwardsburg Argus

A different kind of

Lewis Cass ISD board votes

to change district name P29
seaweed
Former Lunker’s restaurant, bait shop
building turns into provisioning center

Delayed jury trials leave

victims lacking closure P30