11.20.20

Our 'new normal' returns

Spike in virus cases prompts a return to remote learning, tougher restrictions on businesses

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven Public Schools had planned to extend in-person classes for high school students last Monday, Nov. 16, but like so many situations related this year to the coronavirus pandemic, plans changed at the last minute.

Four days before the extension was set to begin, district officials made the decision to return all students throughout the school system to remote learning for one week after 26 staff members and 60 students were forced to quarantine after being in contact with a person suspected of having coronavirus.

Last week, school officials were dealt another blow when the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services ordered all schools, colleges and universities to return to remote learning through at least Dec. 8 due to the rapid rise of coronavirus cases throughout the state.

The new restrictions not only came as a disappointment to students and parents, but also to student athletes, who learned that all remaining fall sports tournaments would be postponed, as well as winter sports through at least Dec. 8.

The halt to athletic programs left South Haven Athletic Director Adam Verseput at a loss for words in terms of what to expect if the cancellation of sports continues past Dec. 8.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” he said on Wednesday. “I hope the pause lasts three weeks, that we can resume sports and that Ellie Frost will get to finish her season.”

Frost, a senior this year and a member of the South Haven girls swim team, has qualified to compete in the Division 3 state tournament for the past three years. As a freshman she placed second in the state in the 50-yard freestyle race. During her sophomore yeaer she won the race and was named state champ. Last year, she settled for third in the state in the 50-yard freestyle.

Frost qualified once again to compete at this year’s state finals and was supposed to travel to Lake Orion, Saturday, to swim in the 50-yard freestyle race, but that is now on hold due to tougher restrictions to stop the spread of the pandemic.

“She’s a great athlete, a smart student and a super duper nice kid,” Verseput said.

The Michigan High School Athletic Association indicated in a news release last week that they remain committed to ensuring fall sports tournaments are completed, once they are given the green light to do so. If the restrictions are lifted, the MHSAA is tentatively planning to host the swimming state finals Dec. 23.

“They’re still committed to trying to make that happen,” Verseput said. “If it (the halt of sports) goes longer, we’ll see.”

Businesses grapple with latest emergency order

The state health department’s emergency order not only affects area schools, but businesses as well.

The order does the following:

Prohibits indoor dine-in service at bars and restaurants, however, take-out, curbside and outdoor dining is still allowed

Caps retail store capacity at 30 percent

Allows in-person work, but only when people doing that work cannot perform their tasks from a remote location

Closes theaters, movie theaters, stadiums, arcades, bowling centers, ice skating rinks and indoor water parks

Prohibits group fitness classes, but allows individuals to exercise by themselves

Limits indoor gatherings to 10 people, but only two households will be permitted to gather

Limits outdoor gatherings to 25 people

Limits funeral attendance to 25 people

The order went into effect last Wednesday for businesses. How it will affect them over the next several weeks and into the holiday shopping season remains to be seen at this point, according to Kathy Wagaman, executive director of the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.

“The recent directives by the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are yet another challenge, but the Chamber has not been made aware of a lot of permanent business closures,” she said.

The new restrictions come on the heels of a successful fall season for local merchants, according to Wagaman.

“Our area businesses reported that the summer months were strong, but surprisingly, that the fall season surpassed previous years’ revenue, even into November,” Wagaman said. “We’re proud of the many ways that area businesses have adapted to the rapidly changing COVID restrictions and guidelines over the past 10 months. We’ve enjoyed hearing many success stories throughout the pandemic reflecting ingenuity, creativity and determination.”

She went on to urge businesses to read the chamber’s newsletters regarding funding that may be able to businesses to whether the pandemic restrictions.

“They (the newsletters) contain time-sensitive details on any loans, grant funding, updated guidelines, and other relevant information,” Wagaman said. We also remind business leaders to closely watch the COVID-19 Business Resource page on the Chamber website at www.southhavenmi.com.”

11.13.20

SH Public Schools return to remote learning for at least a week

Students in the South Haven Public School district returned to their home computers today after district officials made the decision to stop in-person learning for at least a week.

"This is not a decision entered into lightly as we know the impact to families but we also want to ensure the continued safety of our students and staff," Superintendent Kevin Schooley stated.

The decision to return to remote learning is due to a number of school district staff who are self-quarantining due to exposure to individuals with COVID-19.

"Due to significant quarantine restrictions with staff across the district, South Haven Public Schools will be moving to our remote learning plan on Friday, Nov. 13 district-wide with an intention to return to in-person learning on Thursday, Nov. 19," district officials wrote in a letter issued Thursday, Nov. 12 to parents. "The district will be consulting with the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department regarding any additional suspension of in-person learning.  Details regarding next steps will be communicated to our school families in the near future through your child’s school."

The school district's decision to return to remote learning comes at a time when the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Van Buren County is starting to spike.

Over the past month, the number of positive COVID-19 cases reported to Van Buren/Cass District Health Department (VBCDHD) has increased significantly, according to Danielle Persky, deputy health officer for the department

As of Friday, Nov. 13, cases increased by 673 over two weeks ago. On Friday, the cases stood at 1,670, compared to 997 that were recorded on Oct. 28. Deaths during that same time period increased from 17 to 21.

Earlier this year, South Haven Public Schools officials sent students and staff from two classrooms at Maple Grove Elementary School home for two weeks after two students tested positive for COVID-19. But the district hasn't had to take similar action until now.



11.3.20

Covert Twp. woman dies after being struck by vehicle

Covert Township Police Department is investigating  a car crash that led to the death of a 76-year-old woman, Monday afternoon.

The crash occurred at 2:15 p.m. on M-140 Highway in front of the Covert Branch Library, according to a news release from Covert Township Police Chief Jay Allen.

Marlene Frances Cassidy of Covert Township was walking across M-140 Hwy. from the west to the east side when a 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan, traveling north from 34th Avenue, struck her.

She was transported to Lakeland Watervliet Hospital by Covert Township ambulance but was pronounced dead at the hospital.

M-140 Hwy. was closed for several hours.

Covert Township Police was assisted by Michigan State Police, South Haven Police, Van Buren County Sheriff's Deprtment and Covert Township Fire/EMS.



11.2.20

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer stopped in South Haven Friday to say thank you to first responders from South Haven Area Emergency Services and South Haven Police Department for their efforts, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. In the photo above, she is shown shaking hands with retired firefighter Don Quinn. (Photo by Becky Kark)

Whitmer comes to SH to thank first responders; Urges vigilance against the coronavirus pandemic

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

With Tuesday’s general election a day away, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has spent the past week campaigning for Democratic candidates seeking federal and state legislative seats.

Such was the case Friday when she came to Southwest Michigan to help bolster the campaigns of Jon Hoadley, who hopes to unseat veteran U.S, Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, for the 6th Congressional seat, and Abigail Wheeler, who hopes to defeat Rep. Beth Griffin, R-Mattawan, for the 66th District state representative seat.

However, on Friday afternoon Whitmer took time out to visit with first responders from South Haven Area Emergency Services and the South Haven Police Department to present them with pizza and to thank them for their efforts to protect and serve the community as frontline workers amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic – especially as cases and deaths increase in Michigan and elsewhere throughout the United States.

“Thank you for everything you’re doing,” Whitmer told the group of a dozen or so first responders who took part in the outdoor meet-and-greet at the police/fire complex at 90 Blue Star Highway. “As hard as my job is, it’s not as challenging as yours. ... In the middle of this pandemic we need to support the first responders who put their lives on the line.”

Whitmer spent approximately a half hour talking with first responders to find how they’ve been faring during the pandemic. She asked South Haven Area Emergency Services Director and Fire Chief Brandon Hinz how many people with coronavirus in the South Haven area first responders have encountered while dealing with emergency situations.

“We dealt with 4-5 patients during the first wave and it’s about the same so far for the second round,” Hinz told her.

As of Friday, Van Buren/Cass District Health Department officials reported that cases of COVID-19 in Van Buren County have increased by 158 cases, to 1,058 cases over the previous week’s count of 900, with two more confirmed deaths (18 total).

The recent surge in the coronavirus greatly concerns the governor.

“People are getting tired – they’re dropping their guard,” she said. “I’m worried about the numbers.”

Recently the Michigan Supreme Court denied continuance of the governor’s pandemic executive order restrictions. However, within days of the court ruling, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Service issued executive orders of its own to keep face-mask restrictions in place, along with requirements on social distancing and limits on outdoor and indoor social gatherings.

Those restrictions, Whitmer said, in an interview after meeting with South Haven area first responders, are lost on some people in Michigan.

“We still have a face-mask mandate,” she said. “People think they don’t have to wear a mask. It’s dangerous to people’s health.”

She went on to say that states surrounding Michigan are having a higher spread of coronavirus compared to this state, but she stressed, “it’s not anything to celebrate about. This is a health crisis.”

Whitmer’s visit to South Haven was very low-key. She said she was visiting to thank first responders as part of her “Good For The Soul” events to thank frontline workers for continuing to serve their communities while dealing with an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.

When asked whether the recent plot to kidnap her affected her ongoing job responsibilities, Whitmer replied, “I probably haven’t processed it, but I’ve got a job to do.”

Part of that job as of late is encouraging Michigan residents to vote in Tuesday’s election, especially ahead of time by dropping of their absentee ballots at the polling precincts.

“This is going to be a historic election,” she said. “Every person matters. We don’t write off any community.”

The governor was also in Benton Harbor briefly on Friday for a private Democratic fundraiser.



10.26.20

COVID-19 restrictions put the skids on Ice Breaker

Chamber makes the decision to cancel festival because of ongoing concerns about the pandemic

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

For the past year, South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce officials have watched most of their summertime and fall events canceled, one by one, due to COVID-19 restrictions.

It looks like that trend will continue this winter with the organization's announcement that its popular wintertime festival, Ice Breaker, will be a no-go.

The festival, scheduled for Jan. 29-31, 2021, would have been entering its 28th year, but after examining data from the Centers for Disease Control, and meeting with officials from Van Buren/Cass County Health Department, the City of South Haven and South Haven Area Emergency Services, the chamber made the decision to cancel the three-day event.

"We know this will come as an enormous disappointment, not only to local businesses, but to our area non-profit organizations, vendors and attendees," said the chamber's Executive Director Kathy Wagaman. "We have truly appreciated the generous support and participation we have received from local businesses for this event over the past 27 years and assure we are strongly committed to carrying on the tradition in the future as the effects of COVID-19 dissipate."

Over the years under the chamber's guidance, Ice Breaker has grown considerably in terms of events and attendance.

It's debatable which Ice Breaker event draws the largest crowds – the chili cookoff, cardboard sled races, fish fling or ice sculpture – but one thing is for sure, locals and visitors view it as one of the town's most popular festivals.

In the Best of South Haven 2019 contest, Ice Breaker earned runner-up honors as the most popular festival in South Haven.

The festival offers events found at most winter festivals, such as the chili-cookoff, which last year attracted 27 eateries and organizations, and the ice sculpture competition, which features upwards of 60 carvings throughout the downtown. But it's the more non-traditional events of recent years that have fueled the festival's popularity.

Those include the cardboard sled race and frozen fish fling. Last year, there were upwards of 80 cardboard sled entries, while 200 people came to Riverfront Park to take turns seeing how far they could throw frozen fish.

Those events, along with the ice skating rink activities and the popular pub crawl and food specials offered at local restaurants, bring upwards of 10,000 people to the downtown at a time when few visitors come to the area.

It's a disappointment not lost on the Chamber.

But, Chamber officials also want to do their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially at a time when cases are starting to go up. A trend that is expected to continue  through the winter months.

"Our primary concern is always the responsibility we feel to protect our community, and those who would visit from the region and neighboring states," Wagaman said. "We could never have predicted having to make such a decision as this one and we clearly understand this will impact the ability of local businesses to bring in critical revenue during an otherwise challenging month."



10.20.20

South Haven's Sydney Barnes tees off on the 15th hole during the Division 4 state finals at Forest Akers West golf course on the campus of Michigan State University. Barnes finished the match with a 98.

Making history

Rams golf team makes its first trip to the state finals

South Haven's varsity girls golf team made history last week by becoming the first Lady Rams golf team to qualify for the state finals.

The Rams made the trek Friday to East Lansing to compete in the Division 4 tournament at Forest Akers West golf course on the campus of Michigan State University, and settled for 15^th place out of 18 teams.

“But, I don't think that tells the whole story,” South Haven Coach Barry Shanley said.

After playing the first few holes, the Rams were actually in sixth place.

“Then a couple girls had a couple of bad holes and we found ourselves in 16th place,” Shanley remarked.

The team regrouped and rose higher in the ranks to 11^th place.

“But then the bottom kind of fell through,” Shanley said. “We had three of our girls finish with two par 3s out of the last 5 holes...and we took 7s or 8s on all of the par 3s we had left. Totally uncharacteristic play for us...Our team score was 37 strokes higher than our average. As was the case for most teams in the very cold weather.”

As a team the Rams finished the tournament with a combined score of 425.

Sydney Barnes led South Haven with 98 strokes; Abby Bocock, followed with 100, Jenna Ridley, 113; Hannah Kaczmarek, 114 and Samantha Bocock, 119.

“It's been my experience the first time a team makes the finals, their adrenaline is in super overdrive, Shanley said. “ I truly believe that had the girls been able to have a second round, which we didn't because of Covid, we would have finished much higher.

“The legacy of these players is secure because they are the first to make it all the way to the state finals.  As a coach, I couldn't be prouder of them or happier for them.”



10.12.20

Crash claims the lives of three people

LACOTA — Three people died today after two vehicles collided at the intersection of Baseline Road and 60th Street. Police and ambulance responded to the triple fatality at noon, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services. When first responders arrived they found two people in one vehicle and another crash victim in the other. All three people were pronounced dead at the scene. No other information about the crash is available at this time. The accident remains under the investigation by Van Buren County Sheriff's Department, who were assisted at the scene by Michigan State Police and Allegan County Sheriff's Department. 

10.5.20

2 SH elementary students test positive for COVID-19

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

One week after resuming in-person learning at its elementary school buildings, South Haven Public Schools this week had to send students and teaching staff home from two classrooms to be quarantined for 14 days after it was discovered two students had tested positive for coronavirus.

District officials did so Monday after being informed by Van Buren/Cass District Health Department that two students from Maple Grove Elementary School tested positive for COVID-19, according to South Haven Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Schooley.

“I got a call at 8:30 a.m. telling us that two students had tested positive,” Schooley said.

After discussing the situation with health officials, the school district dismissed the students and staff from the two affected classrooms to be quarantined for two weeks.

“We closed the two classrooms to be disinfected and the kids will be learning remotely from home,” Schooley said in a phone interview Wednesday.

In a letter issued to school district parents on Monday, Schooley stated, “There is nothing more important to South Haven Public Schools than the safety and health of our students, our staff and their families. We are working directly with county health officials to address this situation. ... South Haven Public Schools will continue to clean and disinfect surfaces inside all district schools, including Maple Grove Elementary.”

School officials did not release grade levels of the two classrooms that closed, citing health confidentiality standards.

In the letter to parents, Schooley stated, “While we must protect the privacy of the individuals involved, we believe it is best to communicate with you transparently so you can make well-informed decisions for your family.”

South Haven Public Schools was one of only two school districts in the 30 public school districts in The Herald-Palladium’s coverage area that chose to remain closed to in-person learning at the start of the school year, Aug. 31. School district officials, with the approval of the school board, decided to re-open the schools for in-person learning on Sept. 21, starting with elementary schools. This week, in-person instruction was expanded to include the middle and high schools.

News of the two positive student tests is troubling for the district, which is bracing for the possibility of more positive tests for students and/or staff.

“It’s a tough time to be a school official, teachers and parents. It’s a tough time for everyone involved,” Schooley said.

9.28.20

Damian Sanchez is shown with his mother, Carolina Sanchez, in a photo that appeared on a GoFundMe page that has been started for the family to help with funeral and medical expenses. Mother and son were involved in a tragic accident Saturday. Sept. 19 that claimed the life of Damian and injured his mother.

Covert community mourns death of 7-year-old boy

At-fault driver faces four felony charges

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

COVERT — The community here is mourning the loss of a 7-year-old Covert boy who died Saturday, Sept. 19^th, in a car crash that involved four vehicles.

Damian Sanchez, a second-grade student at Covert Public Schools, was in a vehicle driven by his 43-year-old mom, Carolina Sanchez, when the driver of another vehicle failed to stop at an intersection, and crashed into the Sanchez's vehicle, fatally wounding the little boy and injuring his mother, who was taken by ambulance to Bronson South Haven Hospital, and listed in stable condition.

“My heart is simply broken for them, said Jennifer Green, resource coordinator for Youth Development Co., whose daycare program Damian attended when he was younger. “I have known Damian since he was a toddler,” Green went on to say. “I have known Carolina even longer. Damian was such a polite and amazing little guy. He was my daughter's classmate since Pre-K.”

The tragic accident prompted Covert Elementary School teacher Pam Baker to start a GoFundMe page to raise money for funeral and medical expenses for the Sanchez family.

“Covert Township lost a precious little boy, Damian Sanchez, who always wore a huge smile,” Baker stated on the GoFundMe page. “Damian's mother Carolina (who is a secretary for Covert Public Schools) was badly hurt in the accident.  There is no way to ease the pain of losing a child, but together we can help ease the financial burden of the funeral costs and medical bills for this wonderful family who are always doing for others.”

As of last week more than $14,000 of the $15,000 fundraising goal had been met.

Counselors were at Covert Elementary School Monday, Sept. 21, to provide support.

“The Crisis Response Team from the Van Buren Intermediate School District is on-site today and they are available to provide support for staff and students that need it,” Covert Superintendent Yolanda Brunt said in an interview Monday. “Lory's Place will also be providing additional support as needed. Damian was a good student and he will be greatly missed.”

Covert Elementary Principal Claire Kliss echoed the superintendent's sentiments regarding Damian.

“Damian was a good student who was well-liked by his peers. He will be missed,” she said.

The fatal car crash happened at approximately 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19^th, at the intersection of 28^th Avenue and M-140 Highway.

Police stated in a news release that a 2008 Saturn Vue driven by Sanchez was traveling north on M-140 Hwy., when a 2001 Buick Regal, driven by a 28-year-old woman from Hartford, failed to stop at a stop sign.

The collision caused the Saturn to hit a Nissan, which was traveling south on M-140 Highway. That vehicle was then hit by a Hyundai, which police believe was traveling behind the Nissan.

The Hartford woman, Ashley Beebe, was arrested and arraigned last week on four felony charges in Seventh District Court for reckless driving causing death; operating a vehicle with a revoked/suspended license causing death; reckless driving causing serious impairment of body function; and operating a vehicle with a revoked/suspended license causing injury.



9.21.20

7-year-old Covert boy dies in crash involving four vehicles

COVERT — A crash over the weekend involving four vehicles, has resulted in the death of a 7-year-old boy from Covert, and injuries to two other people.

Damian Sanchez Enriquez was riding in a 2008 Saturn Vue, driven by his 43-year-old mom, Carolina Sanchez, when a 2001 Buick, driven by a 28-year-old woman from Hartford, failed to stop at a stop sign.

The crash happened at approximately 2 p.m., Saturday at the intersection of 28^th Avenue and M-140 Highway, according to a news release from Covert Township Police.

Police say the Saturn Vue was traveling north on M-140, when it was struck by the Buick, which was headed east on 28^th Avenue. The collision caused the Saturn to hit a Nissan, which was traveling south on M-140 Highway. That vehicle was then hit by a Hyundai, which police believe was traveling behind the Nissan.

Carolina Sanchez was taken to Bronson South Haven Hospital to be treated for injuries. She was reported to be in stable condition, according to the Covert Township Police Department news release.

Police are continuing to investigate the crash before seeking criminal charges from the Van Buren County Prosecutors Office, according to the news release.

Two people injured in crash involving two semi-tractors

The driver of a semi-tractor suffered multiple injuries late last week after crashing into another semi on Interstate 196, just north of South Haven. The crash occurred at 5:15 p.m., Friday, in the northbound lane of the highway between North Shore Drive and 109th Avenue in Casco Township, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services. A semi with a trailer was parked on the shoulder of the highway to allow for a tire to be repaired. As the repair was taking place a semi-tractor without a trailer struck the parked vehicle. The force of the impact destroyed the tractor and injured the person who was repairing the tire. He was taken to Bronson-South Haven Hospital, while the driver of the tractor that caused the crash was rushed to Holland Hospital by ambulance. The crash forced the closure of the highway for several hours. The crash is under investigation by Michigan State Police.



9.14.20

Body recovered off North Beach believed to be victim of Sept. 6 drowning

UPDATE: Van Buren County Sheriff's Dept. reported Thursday, Sept. 17, that an autopsy concluded that the drowning victim was Brandon Chambers of Jackson

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

SOUTH HAVEN — The nearly week-long search to recover the body of an 18-year-old teen who drowned off of South Beach has apparently ended.

“A body believed to be the victim of the Sept 6 drowning off South Haven’s South Beach was recovered Saturday,” South Haven Area Emergency Services stated in a news release, Sunday. “The recovery occurred off the city's North Beach.”

South Haven Police have not yet released the name of the young man, pending an autopsy, however family members have identified him as Brandon Chambers of Jackson.

“The body recovered does appear to be Brandon, however, an autopsy will be performed, and dental records will be matched,” stated Janet Parker, who has set up a GoFundMe site on behalf of the Chambers family to help them with expenses. As of Monday morning, $7,300 toward the $10,000 fundraising goal had been raised.

The search for Chambers was an exhaustive one that involved divers from SHAES, South Haven Police Department, the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department and Allegan County Sheriff's Department, along with the U.S. Coast Guard and private companies that conducted drone and underwater sonar searches. Hazardous weather conditions, however, hampered search efforts for the better part of the week, including Friday.

“Search efforts today are limited to UAV (drones) and sonar,” said Capt. Virg Franks of the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department on Friday morning. The drone and sonar operations began in the early afternoon, starting 10 miles North of South Haven, working south and ending at South Beach.

The purpose of the drones and sonar was to identify unusual shapes or anomalies underwater to aid in the divers' search. Saturday morning, fishermen in the area saw a body floating on the surface. SHAES responded and recovered the body.

After hearing news of the apparent recovery of Chambers, his family released a statement, saying in part: "The people in South Haven have been wonderful to us. The love, care and guidance shown to us by the various agencies as well as the neighbors and friends of friends made our devastation bearable.”

Chambers was swimming in Lake Michigan, along with a 19-year-old Jackson man late Sunday afternoon, Sept. 6, when both were overcome by the waves. First responders were able to rescue the 19-year-old, but could not locate Chambers, who had gone under the water.

It was originally reported by SHAES that red flags were flying at South Beach as a warning for people to stay out of the water. However, according to Chambers' grandmother, Sue Chambers, that was not the case.

“The flag at the pier was red but the rest were yellow,” she posted on Facebook. “The water was rough but not real bad when the boys went in. It quickly changed while they were in the water.”

SHAES has confirmed that some flags at South Beach were yellow while others were red at the time Chambers entered the water.

“After more investigation into this incident, the rescued and missing swimmers in the Sept. 6 incident entered the water under a yellow flag warning,” Brandon Hinz, executive director of SHAES, stated in a news release. “Conditions deteriorated rapidly and a strong rip current carried the swimmers, first responders as well, to an area marked by red flags, nullifying initial reports that the entire beach was under a red flag warning.”



9.7.20

First responders from South Haven Area Emergency Services and South Haven Police Department form a human chain Sunday afternoon in an attempt to locate an 18-year-old man from Jackson who had become caught up in the waves of Lake Michigan off of South Beach. The Van Buren County Sheriff's Department Marine boat can also be seen assisting in the search. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

Search scheduled to resume today for presumed drowning victim

Search dependent on hazardous weather conditions; Police close South Beach

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

First responders plan this morning to continue the search for an 18-year-old man from Jackson who is presumed drowned after becoming caught up in the waves of Lake Michigan, Sunday, near South Beach.

“The search will resume if conditions permit,” said Brandon Hinz, South Haven Area Emergency Services chief.

In the meantime, South Beach will remain closed to the public today as it was Sunday afternoon when first responders were called to the beach to search for the man.

“Waves are expected to be 4 to 6 feet and beach hazards are in effect,” South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson stated in a news release. “The South Beach has been barricaded and signs posted warning against trespassing. Violators will be prosecuted.”

If hazardous swimming conditions continue the beach could be closed even longer, according to Thompson.

The 18-year-old man from Jackson, whose name is not yet being released by police, is among five people who first responders were called upon to rescue from Lake Michigan Saturday and Sunday, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES). The other four were rescued, but as of 7:45 p.m., Sunday, the search for the 18-year-old Jackson man was called off due to darkness and rough wave conditions. The serch was conducted by South Haven Area Emergency Services, South Haven Police Department, the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department marine patrol and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Members of SHAES were dispatched at 4:30 p.m. Sunday for two men reported to be in distress at a buoy in the swimming area of South Beach.

First responders saw a man clinging to the buoy about 100 yards from the shore. A member of SHAES and a South Haven police officer reached the 19-year-old Jackson man who told them that his friend had gone under and had not resurfaced.

After getting the 19-year-old man to shore, first responders formed a human search chain while the sheriff's marine patrol and a Coast Guard cutter conducted search patterns. They were then joined by a Coast Guard helicopter and the Van Buren Sheriff's dive team. As of 7 p.m., the swimmer had still not been located.

The incident today follows three other incidents on Saturday, in which people had to be rescued.

In all of the cases, red flags were flying at the time indicating people should stay out of the water.

The first rescue incident occurred at 2:30 p.m. when an adult woman was overcome by the waves along the shore just off South Beach, according to a news release from the South Haven Police Department. She was pulled from the water by other beachgoers. She initially was not breathing but soon began to aspirate water and regained consciousness. The woman was taken to Bronson South Haven Hospital where she was evaluated and later released.

At approximately the same time, an adult male was overcome by waves along the south pier. He was rescued by a passing boat and taken to the Southside Municipal Marina, nearby, and was released without the need for additional medical treatment.

Later Saturday afternoon, a 15-foot unoccupied dinghy washed ashore along North Beach. The Van Buren County Marine Patrol, was patrolling the lake at the time and found the dinghy's operator floating approximately 1,000 yards offshore. He was suffering from exhaustion and was taken to Bronson Hospital for evaluation.

The man, who had not been wearing a life jacket at the time, told first responders he been knocked off the boat by powerful wave action.



8.31.20

Weekend water rescue

A first responder from South Haven Area Emergency Services and several bystanders rescued a man from Lake Michigan, early Saturday afternoon, after he tried to rescue a woman who had apparently been swept off the South Pier and into the water near South Beach. First responders were dispatched at 1:50 p.m. to the beach, according to a news release from SHAES. Witnesses told them what had happened and that the woman was able to reach the beach. A SHAES responder who was in the vicinity of South Beach at the time, put on his water rescue equipment and with the help of Good Samaritans, found the man and brought him to shore. "He was doing beach flag duty and had decided to remain at South Beach for awhile," said Tom Renner, a volunteer who handles pubilcity for SHAES. After the man was rescued he was taken to Bronson South Haven Hospital. The woman and first responder from SHAES were also taken to the hospital for observation. The National Weather Service had posted a Hazard Beach Warning at South Beach at the time of the incident. Red warnings flags were posted, however, people were going into the water anyway and walking on the piers. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services) 

8.24.20

Allegan County man accused of shooting at vehicle

VALLEY TWP. — An Allegan County man is expected to be in 57^th District court later this week after being charged with felonious assault in connection to a vehicle shooting that occurred earlier this month.

A probable cause conference has been scheduled 1 p.m., Thursday, for Michael Christopher Lloyd, 49, of Valley Township, according to court records.

The felony charge comes after Allegan County Sheriff's Department received a call Aug. 13 that a package delivery vehicle had been shot at while the driver was driving on 44^th Street, near 118^th Avenue, southeast of Fennville.

According to a news release from the sheriff's department, detectives arrested Lloyd on Aug. 15 and he was arraigned Aug. 17 in 57^th District Court.



Police release accident victim's name

Police have released the name of the construction worker who died last week when a trench collapsed at a worksite in Casco Township.

The name of the accident victim is Vincent Edward Rasmus, 56, of South Haven. He died Wednesday, Aug. 19 while working on a home building project on Lakeshore Drive, overlooking Lake Michigan.

At the time of the collapse, Rasmus, who was employed by deBest Inc. was working on underground utilities, approximately 12 feet below the surface at a new construction site, according to a news release from Allegan County Sheriff's Department. Rasmus had been employed for more than 16 years for deBest Inc.

deBest workers on scene were able to extricate him from the trench prior to first responder's arrival, however, he had succumbed to his injuries.

Rasmus is survived by three children, five brothers and sisters and five grandchildren.

Funeral services for Rasmus are scheduled Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven.

8.22.20

South Haven man charged with homicide

By TRIBUNE STAFF

SOUTH HAVEN — A 36-year-old South Haven man is in Van Buren County jail after being charged with allegedly murdering a woman this past week.

Randy Halstead was arraigned Friday in Seventh District Court for homicide and for being a habitual offender. He remains in jail with no bond, according to a news release issued by the South Haven Police Department. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Sept. 2, according to court records.

Police say they responded at 11 p.m. Wednesday, to a residence on Pearl Street regarding an unconscious female. Officers determined 48-year-old Kimberly Halstead, the wife of Randy Halstead, was deceased and that foul play was involved. On Thursday, they arrested Randy Halstead.

South Haven Police was assisted by the Van Buren County Sheriff's office in the investigation.

Anyone who may have information regarding the incident is asked to call the South Haven Police Department, 269-637-5151.



8.19.20

Worker dies at construction site

A worker died this morning while working on a home building project on Lakeshore Drive in Casco Township. The worker died after a trench collapsed at the project site, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services. No other information about the incident is available at this time. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

8.17.20

The South Haven High School's marching band drum line is shown rehearsing as part of last week's summer band camp. From left are Emma Parker, Lars Larsen, Sydney Barnes, Romy Ransom, Ellie Frost and Phillip Kerber.

Purple Pride on display during a pandemic

COVID-19 takes the pep out of South Haven band's step, but not their eagerness to make music

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

With so many summertime event and activities canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, it came as a surprise at the start of August to hear the sound of a drum cadence.

It occurred each morning, echoing throughout town.

Could it be the South Haven High School purple pride marching band conducting its annual band camp, even amid the pandemic?

As it turns out, yes.

But it was a very different kind of band camp.

Gone were the food feasts students enjoyed after long days spent memorizing music and marching routines. Also missing were the games they played during breaks, and the biggest blow of all, the highlight students looked forward to every year — the giant water fight that signaled the end of the week-long camp.

Senior Garrett Smith, who is one of the Purple Pride marching band's two drum majors this year, remembers those previous camps with fondness.

“We'd go inside and eat like kings,” he reminisced. “We'd do a lot more games...and the water fight.”

In pre-pandemic times, band camp lasted eight hours each day during the first week of August. Students spent the morning indoors rehearsing music and the afternoon learning marching routine.

This year, band students spent mornings outdoors rehearsing either in sections or as a group.

“We couldn't rehearse inside as a group,” Smith said, due to coronavirus restrictions on the number of people assembled in one room.

Band camp also only lasted four hours each day instead of eight, because students weren't allowed to learn a marching routine this year due to social distancing restrictions.

“We are not marching, just standing still,” Smith said.

When football fans see the Purple Pride band perform this year, they will see a group that looks much different from bands of the past.

“We will not be using uniforms this year as we cannot follow distancing and contact restrictions while fitting,” Band Director Jeff Bopp said. “Students were given a band T-shirt and we will use that as our uniform for performances.”

Other changes will occur as well.

“Students have to keep at least a 6-foot distance, and wear masks when they are not playing,” Bopp went on to say. “In addition, each wind player was given a fabric bell cover to reduce any droplets that come out of the instrument.  Students are not allowed to share any equipment.  For this reason, special time and care was given to planning percussion instruments and color guard flags so that students do not have to exchange equipment at any time.  We also screen every student before practice for any illness symptoms.”

Yet, even with all the changes that the pandemic has brought, many of the band's 100 members were eager to be at camp this year doing what they love to do – making music.

“We all miss meeting together,” Smith said. “I was really worried whether we would have band this year. It's good we can have a little bit of something.”

Not all band students showed up for the week-long camp, however.

“We have approximately 15 percent of the band that chose not to attend band activities at this time due to COVID-19, but they still are and do plan to be a part of the band this year,” Bopp said. “If a student chooses to do virtual learning from home this fall, they will still have the option to participate in band and music remotely. The details of what that will look like are still being refined.”

The pandemic even played a role in the selection of music for this year's show — “Pinball Wizard” by the Who, “Dream On” by Aerosmith a percussion feature called “Apex,” and the highly popular song from Frozen 2, “Into the Unknown.”

“The 2020 production is entitled 'Dream On,'” Bopp said. “ When the pandemic first started, I knew we would need a show to give us a sense of hope and unity.  To dream is to have an aspiration, an ambition, to strive for and ideal.  It is a hope for a better tomorrow, a better future, a better world.   What better way to go into the 2020 school year than with a reminder that while we may have to wait for the pandemic to subside, our dreams and our goals give us the hope for a better tomorrow.”

8.11.20

UPDATE: The two teens have been safely found.

Myangel Davis (left) and Tonjonae Davis of Covert Township have been missing since Friday, Aug. 7. Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating the two teenagers.

Covert Police seek public's help in finding two missing teenagers

COVERT — Covert Township Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating two teenage girls who have been missing since Friday, Aug. 7.

Myangel Jeffries and Tonjonae Davis were last seen in Covert Township after leaving Jeffries' residence the morning of Friday, Aug. 7, according to a news release from Covert Township Police Chief Jay Allen. Police believe they left in a vehicle that belongs to Mayangel Jeffries' grandparents. The vehicle, a tan 2014 GMC Terrain, was found Monday at 2238 E. Main St., in Kalamazoo. Witnesses told police they saw two teenagers walking away from the vehicle.

Myangel Jeffries is described as 5-feet tall, approximately 200 pounds with mid-length black hair that is braided. Tonjonae Davis is approximately 5 foot 3 inches tall, about 130-150 pounds, with long black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the two teenagers is asked to call Covert Township Police, 269-764-8100.





8.10.20

Fly-over to honor COVID-19 'citizen heroes'

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

For the past eight years, the South Haven Steelheaders, American Legion and Operation Injured Soldiers have teamed up to take veterans, injured in war, out on Lake Michigan for a day of fishing as part of the annual Salute to Veterans celebration.

This year, with the coronavirus pandemic, however, the event will be a little different and instead focus on “citizen heroes” who are in the midst of curbing the spread of the deadly virus.

On Saturday, Aug. 15, people who live in the South Haven area can look to the sky to see the Hooligan Flight Team conduct a fly-over in honor of people who have been affected by the pandemic. The flight team, whose pilots are from Muskegon, Grand Haven, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, conduct formation flyovers throughout Michigan.

The fly-over isn't just in honor of police officers, firefighters, paramedics, hospital staff and other “essential” workers, but others, as well.

“A Citizen Hero is the citizen who respected others by staying at home, wearing a mask, following social distancing, lost their jobs, lost their businesses, lost high school and college graduation ceremonies, lost the opportunity to have visitors while in a hospital, lost the opportunity to pay proper last respects to loved ones who had passed away, and lost the ability to go to a house of worship when they needed it the most,” said Bruce Thatcher, who plays a key role in organizing the Salute to Veterans event each year.

The flight team will fly above Bangor at 11:35 a.m., Covert at 11:40 a.m., South Haven at noon, Saugatuck at 12:10 p.m. and Douglas at 12:15 p.m.

During the flyover in South Haven the South Haven American Legion will host families of veterans who died during the coronavirus lock-down without proper military honors. To honor the families and veterans, the Legion will perform a 21-gun salute and Taps at noon.

The flyover above the five towns is being sponsored by Star of the Lake Masonic Lodge in South Haven and the Saugatuck Masonic Lodge.



8.7.20

Curbside COVID-19 testing offered at South Haven High School

South Haven area residents can be tested for COVID-19 locally, next week.

Intercare Community Health will set up a mobile test site, Tuesday, Aug. 11 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at South Haven High School, south parking lot.

The test is covered by most insurance companies, however, no one will be turned away based on inability to pay.

Testing requirements follow:

• You feel sick

• Someone close to you feels sick
• You work outside the home, even if you don't have symptoms
• You are part of a vulnerable population
• You are entering or are already living in a congregate setting like a nursing home or a foster home
• You are going to the hospital for a surgical procedure, even if you don't have symptoms

8.3.20

Ten boaters were taken by ambulance to Bronson South Haven Hospital over the weekend after they were overcome by carbon monoxide. The people were on a 32-foot boat, Saturday, on Lake Michigan en-route from St. Joseph to South Haven. When the carbon monoxide incident occurred the captain was unable to continue operating and boat and issued a distress call. The U.S. Coast Guard and marine units from Van Buren Sheriff's Department and South Haven Area Emergency Services responded and traveled a mile from the South Haven pier heads to remove the people from the boat. They were brought to shore and transported by three ambulances to Bronson-South Haven for evaluation and treatment. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

7.28.20

Bangor Community Fire Department along with departments from six other municipalities battled a house fire, Sunday afternoon, that claimed the life of a 68-year-old Bangor woman. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

Bangor woman dies after house catches fire

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

BANGOR — A woman who had lived her entire life in Bangor, lost her life to a deadly house fire over the weekend.

Bangor Police say 68-year-old Diana Rigozzi was unable to get out of her home after it caught fire Sunday afternoon. She had become trapped inside and unable to escape.

“It's just terrible,” Bangor Police Chief Tommy Simpson said.

Police and fire units responded to the fire at 5:10 p.m. when a neighbor called to say the home, near the intersection of Maple and Cass streets, was fully engulfed in flames.

Bangor Community Fire Department responded immediately and then called for backup from six other departments to battle the blaze.

“We know it started in the living room we just don't know how at this time,” said Bangor Fire Chief Derek Babcock on Monday morning when the state fire marshall was at the scene trying to determine the cause of the fire.

Rigozzi lived in the home with her husband, Bob, who was not at home when the fire broke out.

“They're lifelong residents of Bangor,” Simpson said.

Although the cause of the fire still wasn't been determined as of Monday, Simpson said foul play is not suspected.

Mutual aid was provided to Bangor's fire department by South Haven, Columbia, Covert, Hartford, Lawrence and Watervliet departments.

7.24.20

Blueberry Festival still on the docket, despite COVID-19, but much smaller

By BECKY KARK
Editor and general manager

Memorial Day parade — canceled.
Riverfront Concert Series — canceled
Festival of Cars — canceled.
Fourth of July parade — canceled.
Light up the Lake fireworks display — canceled
Summer Art Fair — canceled
Summer Performance Series — canceled
South Haven Theater Series — canceled
Van Buren Youth Fair — canceled
Michigan Flywheelers Antique Engine and Tractor Show — canceled
It seems this year that  every summer event that draw people to South Haven has been nixed due to fears of spreading the coronavirus.
So it shouldn't come as a surprise that a late-summer festival that draws upwards of 40,000 people to town would fall prey to the cancellation buzzer.
However, the National Blueberry Festival — South Haven's largest summertime event is still a go — just smaller.
“It's 92 percent less, but 100 percent delicious,” Festival Director Megan Cairns quipped.
So don't expect to cheer kids on during the blueberry pie eating contest, or listen to live outdoor concerts, or enjoy perusing the many booths of the craft fair or eating at the festival's many fundraising dinners and breakfasts.
Instead, you'll have to take part in some of the festival events virtually, while social distancing at “live” events.
“We worked long and hard to find a way to still have a festival this year,” said John Deschaine, chair of the Blueberry Festival board of directors. “And while this year's festival will be greatly reduced it did allow us to focus on what is important — blueberries and our community.”
To underscore the town's blueberry heritage, the festival will open Friday, Aug. 7 with Farm Day, where families can visit local growers for various blueberry products and U-Pick opportunities. A list of participating farms can be found on the festival's website. People who tour three farms will be able to get a free slice of blueberry pie, Saturday, Aug. 8, from the festival booth at the Huron Street pavilion, downtown, while supplies last.
The focus will continue on blueberry farmers on Saturday, Aug. 8 when they set up their booths at Blueberry Central Market at the Huron Street pavilion. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., people can purchase a variety of blueberry-related products.
Another outdoor “live” event will be the Kid's Scavenger's Hunt. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 8, families can obtain a Scavenger Hunt page at the Blueberry Festival booth at the Huron Street pavilion to answer clues that can be found within a four-block radius of South Haven. The kids who solve the most clues will receive a prize.
“This is something fun that families can do at their own pace and be socially distanced,” Cairns said.
The remainder of the festival events, most of which will be virtual, follow:
• Youth Pageant: Due to restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, this year's pageant will not take place on stage. Instead, contestants will be interviewed separately on Aug. 8, and then winners announced afterwards. “It's difficult this year, but we want to make it fun,” Cairns said.
• Blueberry 5K run/walk: This event normally attracts about 1,000 runners who run together through downtown streets and along the lakeshore. This year's race will be done in a manner that encourages great social distancing, however. Runners and walkers interested in participating can register online, choose from a variety of routes and then complete the race on their own. There is a fee for the event, which is a fundraiser for the festival. Participants will receive a free T-shirt.
• Kids 1K Fun Run: Similar to the 5K run/walk, kids can enter online and then complete a 0.6-mile route that begins at Kids Corner playground. Each child who completes the fun run will receive a bag of prizes.
• Postcard Perfect Photo Contest: Participants have from Aug. 1-31 to capture their favorite photos focused either on blueberries or the festival. Photos can be loaded through Instagram, by tagging 2nbf_south_haven. The winner, who will be chosen Sept. 14th, will receive 50 postcards of their photographic image to give to family and friends, as well as merchandise gift certificates for the 2021 Blueberry Festival.
• Fun blueberry-related videos for kids and adults: People can view several videos on the festival's Facebook site geared to both children and adults. One of the videos shows adults how to make various beverages that include blueberries. The children's video shows local Blossomtime queens, including Miss South Haven and Miss Bangor, reading children's books that feature blueberries.

7.20.20

SH police investigating death of St. Joseph woman

SOUTH HAVEN — South Haven Police are investigating the death of a St. Joseph woman found near the Black River on Sunday.

A person walking the Kal-Haven trail near Blue Star Highway reported to police at 2:30 p.m. they saw an individual laying in a grassy area along the Black River, off the trail, according to a news release issued by Sgt. Zachary Hathaway.

Officers responded and found the body of the 36-year-old woman who had suffered from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

South Haven Police as well as the medical examiner's office have been in contact with the family, but are not releasing the name of the woman. The investigation is still open, pending the medical examiners report.

South Haven Police were assisted by South Haven Area Emergency Services and St. Joseph Township Police.

Body found Saturday afternoon in Lake Michigan

South Haven Police report that a body was found Saturday afternoon in Lake Michigan near North Beach.

Police are not yet releasing the identity of the person pending proper identification. The person could be 20-year-old Jaedon Odunuga-Evans, who went into Lake Michigan off of North Beach shortly before 9 p.m., Sunday, July 12, but did not return to shore.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, a person walking the North Pier reported to police they saw a body in the water off of North Beach near the pier, according to a news release from South Haven Police Department.

Officers and firefighters from South Haven Area Emergency Services responded and found the body floating out toward the lake. SHAES responders attempted to recover the body directly from the pier by using a surface swimmer, however increased wind and subsequent wave activity pushed the body out to the lake making it impossible and unsafe for the surface swimmer to retrieve the body, according to Sgt. Zachary Hathaway of the South Haven Police Department.

Officers on scene then directed Van Buren County Sheriff Marine deputies, who were on a patrol boat, to the area. After picking up the SHAES paramedic from the pier, the marine patrol deputies and SHAES staff recovered the body from the lake.

South Haven Police as well as the Van Buren County Medical Examiner's office have been in contact with Evans' family.

Further information is pending identification of the deceased and next-of-kin notification.



7.16.20

Search continues for missing man; Police release his name

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Authorities have released the name of the 20-year-old man from Lansing who is now presumed drowned after going into Lake Michigan Sunday night to swim and not returning to shore.

Van Buren County Sheriff's Department Capt. Virg Franks, Wednesday, identified the young man as Jaedon Odunuga-Evans.

Efforts to find Evans began shortly after 9 p.m. Sunday and continued throughout the day on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Rough water conditions and poor visibility underwater, however, have hampered rescue efforts, according to Brandon Hinz, fire chief for South Haven Area Emergency Services, which has been conducting the search along with the U.S. Coast Guard, and marine patrols from Van Buren and Allegan county sheriff's departments.

Divers were able to conduct a search Monday when visibility underwater was limited to 6 inches or less. Tuesday and then again Wednesday, rescuers had to rely on other search methods most of the time.

“Drones and side scan sonar, still way too murky,” Hinz said. However, in the late afternoon on Wednesday, the Van Buren County Sheriff's dive team took to the water, while Jim Schultz from Great Lakes Search and Recovery performed side scan sonar throughout the day. 

Evans had just celebrated his 20^th birthday Saturday and was at the lake Sunday with family members. Several went into the lake and came out. When Evans didn't return to shore, they called 911.

Evans is the son of Lola Odunuga and Kissadrick Evans. His mother could not be reached for an interview Wednesday, but described her son on Facebook as a person who liked to make people smile and laugh. He had planned to leave in September for National Guard training and was scheduled to graduate from Lansing Community College in the spring of 2021.

First responders in South Haven have been kept busy all of this week responding to water-related incidents on Lake Michigan and in the Black River Channel, both of which are experiencing record-high water levels, with waves splashing over both the North and South piers on a regular basis.

The latest incident occurred Tuesday when a first responder from SHAES rescued two adults and a 3-year-old child after their canoe capsized in the Black River channel.

Responder Matthew Dey was on his mid-afternoon rounds checking the beach flags and pier life rings, according to a news release from SHAES when he observed the capsized canoe with people in the water, all wearing personal flotation devices.

Dey threw a life ring to the adult male and was able to pull the adult male and child to a ladder along the channel. He then threw a second life ring to the adult female and pulled her to the ladder.  The canoe and personal belongings were also recovered.

On Sunday, just prior to receiving the 911 call regarding Evans, SHAES responders were called to the North Pier for a report of a man who had been swept off the pier into the Black River channel. Fortunately, Good Samaritans on the South Pier were able to throw him a life ring and bring him to safety.

7.14.20

A diver from South Haven Area Emergency Services emerges from Lake Michigan off North Beach after side scan sonar detected an object underwater Monday afternoon. Patrol boats from Van Buren and Allegan County sheriff's departments joined South Haven Area Emergency Services Monday in searching for a Lansing man who went into Lake Michigan near North Beach Monday evening and did not return to shore. (Photo by Becky Kark)

Search continues for missing Lansing man

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Multiple rescue agencies spent most of Monday continuing the search for a 20-year-old Lansing man who did not return to shore after going out into Lake Michigan Sunday evening. Search efforts are expected to resume today.

As of Monday evening, rescue efforts continued with dive teams utilizing a K9 dog trained in sensing humans. Efforts were focused on a section of Lake Michigan, just off approximately 200 yards off of North Beach in approximately 7 feet of water. The K9 successfully barked twice in the area that was previously searched underwater with a drone that detected wood debris that the swimmer could have become caught on.

Efforts to find the man continued after 9:30 p.m. with a half-dozen divers taking to the waters in an effort to find him.

The search to find the man began early Monday morning.

Rescue boats from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department Marine Patrol and U.S. Coast Guard were out at the start of daylight on Lake Michigan looking for the swimmer, while Great Lakes Drone Co. of Stevensville, flew a drone overhead to search from the air.

Emergency officials closed North Beach to the public so as not to interfere with search efforts, but rough water conditions on Lake Michigan near North Beach hampered the use of divers, prompting rescuers to employ other search methods.

Both the Coast Guard and sheriff's patrol boats were both equipped with sonar used to detect solid objects in the water, according to Capt. Virg Franks of the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department.

“They collected a series of markings,” Franks said. An underwater drone then was used to zoom in on the locations where sonar detected objects, but the swimmer was not found.

“It was all debris, old logs, things like that,” Franks said. The sonar and underwater drone search took most of the morning to complete.

In the afternoon, with water conditions still continuing to be rough, the Allegan County Sheriff's Department dive team used its patrol boat, equipped with side-scan sonar to check for underwater objects near the North Pier and North Beach.

“They concentrated around rocks and pilings,” Franks said. The Coast Guard helicopter also searched the lake from above.

Divers from Van Buren and Allegan County sheriff's department marine patrols and South Haven Area Emergency Services began searching the entire length of the North Pier in the afternoon, while the side-scan sonar and underground drone work continued in other parks of the lake off of North Beach and near the entrance of the Black River channel.

The rough water conditions and lack of visibility hindered divers' efforts.

“There's six inches or less of visibility,” said Scott Johanson, an Allegan County Sheriff's Department deputy and member of the department's marine patrol. “A lot of it is just by feeling along. There's a lot of nooks and crannies that need to be checked out. Divers run the risk of entrapment.”

First responders began searching for the presumed drowning victim, Sunday evening, after being dispatched to North Beach at 9:10 p.m. in response to a swimmer who had reportedly entered Lake Michigan halfway between the North Pier and North Beach concession stand but did not return to shore.

Weather conditions on the big lake, Sunday, and again on Monday morning, were not conducive for swimming Strong winds and waves led to red flags at North Beach on Sunday and again on Monday until mid-afternoon to indicate dangerous swimming conditions.

Officers searched the water's edge and area around the beach, Sunday evening, but were not able to locate the man, whose name was not yet released Monday. Van Buren Sheriff's Department's dive team conducted a line search of the near-shore area, but due to water conditions, a dive search could not be conducted. South Haven Area Emergency Services also utilized their drone to search overhead for the swimmer, while the Coast Guard sent a vessel and helicopter to aid in the search for the victim.

The search was called off at 12:30 a.m. on Monday morning, due to darkness and water conditions.

“It was treacherous,” Franks said.

Prior to receiving the report about the Lansing man, first responders received a rescue call at 8:52 p.m. for a man in his late teens to early 20s who had been swept off the North Pier into the Black River channel. Bystanders, who were on the South Pier, threw him a life ring and managed to pull him to safety.

7.13.20

Van Buren County Sheriff Department's marine patrol is shown this morning getting ready to leave the Black River channel to resume the search for a 20-year-old Lansing man who was last seen, Sunday evening, entering Lake Michigan, off of North Beach. (Photo by Becky Kark)

Search continues for presumed drowning victim

North Beach remains closed this morning as the search continues for a 20-year-old Lansing man who did not return to shore after entering Lake Michigan Sunday evening. Rescue boats from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department and South Haven Area Emergency Services were out at 9 a.m. on Lake Michigan looking for the swimmer, while SHAES also utilized a drone for an overhead search.

Weather conditions on the big lake, yesterday, were not conducive for swimming Strong winds and waves led to red flags on all South Haven beaches to indicate dangerous swimming conditions.

South Haven Police along with South Haven Area Emergency Services responded to two rescue calls at the North Pier and North Beach Sunday evening shortly before 9p.m., according to a news release from the police department.

The first call came in at 8:52 p.m. for a man in his late teens to early 20s who had been swept off the North Pier into the Black River channel. Bystanders, who were on the South Pier threw him a life ring and pulled him to safety.

As police and fire personnel were ready to depart the rescue scene they received a second call at 9:10 p.m. of a swimmer who had reportedly entered Lake Michigan halfway between the North Pier and North Beach concession stand but did not return to shore.

Officers searched the water's edge and area around the beach but were not able to locate the 20-year-old Lansing man Van Buren Sheriff's Department's dive team conducted a line search of the near-shore area, but due to water conditions, a dive search could not be conducted. South Haven Area Emergency Services also utilized their drone to search overhead for the swimmer, while the Coast Guard sent a vessel and helicopter to aid in the search for the victim.

Whitmer: 'Mask up' Michiganders;

Face masks now mandatory for indoor spaces, crowded outdoor spaces

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Starting today, individuals in Michigan are required to wear a face covering whenever they are in indoor public spaces or crowded outdoor spaces. Furthermore, any business that is open to the public can refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering.

The new stipulations are Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's latest move to curb the spread of the coronavirus in Michigan, which is now seeing an uptick in new cases, according to the Michigan Department of Human Health Services.

“The heroes on the front lines of this crisis have gone hours without taking their masks off every day – doctors, nurses, child care workers, grocery store workers. We owe it to them to wear our masks when we’re on a trip to the grocery store or pharmacy,” Whitmer said in a news release. “Masks can reduce the chance of spreading COVID-19 by about 70 percent. By wearing masks, we can save lives and protect our family, friends, and neighbors from the spread of COVID-19. And by wearing masks now, we can put our state in a stronger position so our kids can return to school safely in the fall.”

The number of positive COVID-19 cases and deaths have been relatively low in both Van Buren and Cass counties, however, numbers are on the rise, according to Danielle Persky, deputy health officer and director of health promotion for the Van Buren, Cass District Health Department.

“After weeks of declining numbers, in the last 8 days we saw an uptick in new cases with 27 new positive cases in Cass County and 26 new positive cases in Van Buren County,” Persky said. The number of deaths have also gone up. Van Buren is up to eight COVID-19 related deaths, with Cass at six.

“This reality is a reminder that we have to remain steadfast in our prevention efforts - wearing masks in public, keeping 6ft distance, good hand hygiene, and limiting the number of people you and your household are exposed to.”

Intercare Community Health began offering curbside testing services, Friday, in South Haven, and will do so again Friday, July 19 at South Haven High School's parking lot to the rear of the building. The upcoming testing is scheduled from 2-6 p.m.

When the test site opened at 9 a.m., this past Friday, vehicles soon arrived.

Individuals who were interviewed said they were getting tested as a precaution and to protect loved ones.

“I know I'm at high risk, I have kids at home,” said one woman from the Bloomingdale area. “My husband died of complications of the flu several years ago. I know how these things (viruses such as COVID-19) can go.”

A man said he decided to get tested after his daughter tested positive for coronavirus in Kent County.

“She had no symptoms,” he said, which also prompted him to seek testing. “I thought I might as well do it.”





7.9.20

Curbside COVID-19 testing available at South Haven High School

South Haven area residents can now be tested for COVID-19 locally.

Intercare Community Health will set up a mobile test site, Friday, July 10 and Friday, July 17 at South Haven High School.

Testing will take place in the school's south parking lot and is open to the public from 9 a.m.-noon, Friday, July 10 and 2-6 p.m., Friday, July 17. The test is covered by most insurance companies, however, no one will be turned away based on inability to pay.

Testing requirements follow:

• You feel sick

• Someone close to you feels sick
• You work outside the home, even if you don't have symptoms
• You are part of a vulnerable population
• You are entering or are already living in a congregate setting like a nursing home or a foster home
• You are going to the hospital for a surgical procedure, even if you don't have symptoms

6.29.20

First responders broaden water rescue capabilities thanks to grant

South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES) is broadening its ability to respond to water rescue incidents by providing its paid-on-call members with water rescue equipment that stays with the responders all-of-the time.

Thanks to a grant from the Albemarle Corporation of South Haven, 19 SHAES responders now have a fitted PFD - personalized flotation device (life jacket), helmet and throw-bag containing 50 feet of rope.

SHAES equipment (ambulances, rescue truck, engines) also contain this equipment, but frequently the paid-on-call members who respond from their home or workplace are the first to arrive on an emergency scene.

"Minutes, if not seconds, count in this type of emergency situation," said Chief Brandon Hinz. "We are grateful for the continuing support of Albemarle as we strive to protect our community to the best of our ability."

Hinz also thanked former chief Ron Wise who pursued funding for the acquisition.

In recent weeks SHAES staff has been conducting its annual water rescue drills on Lake Michigan and Lake Arvesta. A recent drill included members of the South Haven Police Department whose officers also have PFDs in their patrol cars.

6.22.20

Myles Daugherty (left) and Nic Sheppard, incoming South Haven High School juniors, are shown with their award-winning exhibit that placed seventh out of 99 entrants in the National History Day competition's Senior Individual Exhibit category. The entry also earned the Senior Division Outstanding Affiliate award which designates it as best-in-the-state. The exhibit was titled "From Bicycles and Birdwatching to Changing the World — The Wright Brothers: Breaking the Barrier of Flight."

South Haven students named finalists in National History Day competition

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Third time's the charm proved true for two South Haven High School students who have been chosen as finalists in the National History Day competition.

Incoming juniors Nic Sheppard and Myles Daugherty placed seventh out of 99 entries in the Senior Division Individual Exhibit category and also earned the Senior Division Outstanding Affiliate award, which designates their exhibit as best-in-the-state, according to a news release issued Monday by the Historical Society of Michigan.“Top 10 in the nation, this is an incredible feat,” South Haven History Club Advisor Julie Shepard said. “This was their third consecutive national level competition as a team.”

Sheppard and Daugherty titled their exhibit “From Bicycles and Birdwatching to Changing the World— The Wright Brothers: Breaking the Barrier of Flight.”

To get ready for the competition, Sheppard and Daugherty traveled to the National Museum of the United States Air Force and the Wright Brothers National Museum in Dayton, Ohio, to study about aviators Orville and Wilbur Wright, who are credited with successfully creating and flying the first motor-driven airplane Wright Flyer at Kitty Hawk, NC in 1903.

As part of their entry, Daugherty and Sheppard modeled the exhibit panels to resemble the brick bicycle factory where the Wright brothers worked. The two students also built a replica of the first plane the two brothers successfully flew and hung it above the exhibit's walls.

Judges were impressed.

“They could tell their passion from their display and were impressed with the expanse of their research,” Julie Sheppard said. “They also thought their idea to construct the boards as the Wright's bike shop factory was a great idea.

When Daugherty and Sheppard's exhibit won first place at the Michigan History Day competition in May, competition organizers asked if they could use the exhibit as an example and teaching tool for other history clubs in Michigan.

A total of six South Haven History Club members qualified for the national contest after advancing through both the regional and state competitions earlier in the spring.

Both the state and national events took place online due to the coronavirus pandemic. The national competition began June 14 and ended this past Saturday.

“The History Day theme for 2020—Breaking Barriers in History—became a reality this year. Students faced numerous challenges, from schools being closed before they could access their projects to not being able to work in-person with group members and sponsors,” said Amy Bradfield, state coordinator for Michigan History Day. “I am proud of our students for overcoming the obstacles caused by the coronavirus pandemic and persevering in their mission to share history.”

Michigan History Day is an affiliate of National History Day, which was established in 1974 and offers year-long project-based learning that engages more than half a million middle and high school students around the world annually, according to the Historical Society of Michigan. Based on an annual theme, students choose to explore and research a local, national or international historical topic. Students then present their work in one of five categories: performances, exhibits, papers, websites and documentaries.



6.19.20

Family member says sister died after helping younger cousin to shore

UPDATED

By BECKY KARK

For The Herald-Palladium

SOUTH HAVEN — Nikara Brandsen of Holland has fond memories of her younger sister, 19-year-old Jazmyn Patterson of South Haven, a sister she will no longer get to see or visit with.

Jazmyn, Brandsen and other family members say, died earlier this week after saving her 4-year-old cousin who had fallen from a floatable raft into Lake Michigan off of South Beach. South Haven Police say they are still waiting for final confirmation by the medical examiner for the official cause of death.

“My sister is a hero because she helped save our little cousin from drowning,” Brandsen said.

Jazmyn and other family members were swimming in Lake Michigan late Tuesday afternoon when the incident occurred. Jazmyn and her 4-year-old cousin were sitting atop a floatable craft.

“They just started floating further and further away,” Jazmyn's other sister Jamesha Mabrey said in an interview with Fox 17 News on Thursday.

Mabrey said she told her sister to return to the shore, but when Jazmyn tried to paddle, the floatable craft flipped over and both she and her cousin went underwater.

Jazmyn got her little cousin toward shore where people on shore got the child to safety. But Jazmyn wasn't able to save herself.

“She was just a giving person always willing to give her last to help somebody else,” Mabrey said Friday in an interview with the South Haven Tribune. “And that’s just what she did. She gave the last bit of strength she had to push my little cousin out further to be saved while she was going under. She was a fighter and it showed.”

South Haven Area Emergency Services responded to a report of a possible drowning at 6:14 p.m and arrived within four minutes of the 911 call, according to Fire Chief Brandon Hinz.

Good samaritans, who were in the lake at the time searching for the swimmer, used their small watercraft to pull Patterson out of the water and to shore where advanced life support was administered by paramedics, fire personnel and South Haven Police Department officers, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services.

She was then taken by ambulance to Bronson South Haven, and then was transported by AirCare to Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.

According to Brandsen, Jazmyn had been underwater for five minutes.

“Jazmyn had her whole life to live,” Brandsen continued to say. “She just turned 19 two weeks ago. Jazmyn had a heart a gold she made people smile even during the hardest time either by jokes or Tik tok videos. She was so silly and so fun to be around. She was a people person, she made friends wherever she went. Her smile was as big as her heart. We will miss her dearly.”



6.15.20

Shawn Smith of South Haven Area Emergency Services rescues a fawn after it became trapped in a manhole on Saturday in Casco Township. (Photo courtesy of SHAES)

Fawn rescued from manhole

Calls for service to South Haven Area Emergency Services come in many forms.

Saturday's was a bit unusual.

Station Three was dispatched to Pacific Avenue in Casco Township where a fawn was reported to be trapped in a manhole. First responder Shawn Smith was quick to the rescue.

The person who reported the incident said her curiosity was aroused when she saw an obviously concerned adult deer in the road near the manhole. The manhole cover was missing and upon investigation the very young fawn was discovered. The fawn was safely returned to the nearby woods.

6.8.20

A call for justice and peace

Two South Haven Police officers get down on one knee along with a large crowd of area residents who marched downtown, Saturday, to  protest the death of Minneapolis resident and black man George Floyd. Floyd died May 25th after a white Minneapolis police officer held him down by putting his knee against the black man's neck for more than 8 minutes. The protest and march in South Haven attracted about 800 participants. South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson marched right alongside the protestors. During a gathering at the Huron Street pavilion, Thompson told the crowd, "We all share your anger over the death of Mr. Floyd. His is the most recent in a long list of people of color who have died at the hands of police, which is unacceptable. We need to listen and learn the true impact these incidents have had on people of color. As a department, we need to do better." (Photo by Becky Kark)

6.1.20

Governor ending Safer at Home order

Moves state into phase 4 of efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus

Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-110, rescinding her Safer at Home order and moving the entire state to phase four of the MI Safe Start Plan, according to a news release issued this afternoon.

The governor’s order will allow retailers to reopen Thursday, June 4 and restaurants to reopen on Monday, June 8, both subject to capacity limits.

Day camps for children will likewise be permitted to open on June 8. Effective immediately, groups of 100 or less will be allowed gather outdoors with social distancing. Office work that is not capable of being performed remotely can resume. And in-home services, including housecleaning services, can resume operations.

Subject to local regulation, gyms and fitness centers may conduct outdoor classes, practices, training sessions, or games, provided that coaches, spectators, and participants maintain six feet of distance from one another during these activities. Outdoor pools can also reopen, with restricted capacity. 

“The data has shown that we are ready to carefully move our state into the next phase of the MI Safe Start Plan, but we owe it to our brave frontline heroes to get this right,” said Whitmer. “While Michiganders are no longer required to stay home, we must all continue to be smart and practice social distancing, and encourage those who meet the criteria to get tested for COVID-19. If we all do our part, our goal is to announce a shift to phase five for the entire state prior to the fourth of July. Stay smart, stay safe, and let’s all do our part.”   

Michiganders must continue to wear facial coverings when in enclosed public spaces and should continue to take all reasonable precautions to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the community. And they should continue to work from home to the maximum extent possible. 

“The governor and I, along with a team of experts, have determined that our state is ready to move into the next phase of the MI Safe Start Plan. Hospitalization numbers are down, our frontline workers have PPE to last them several weeks, and the number of positive cases and deaths are declining,” said MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “We will continue to monitor the data and work closely with local health departments to ensure Michiganders practice safe social distancing. On behalf of our health care professionals and first responders on the front lines, we must all be smart and be safe.” 

“As the hardest-hit region in the state, Wayne County and its residents are ready to safely return to greater activity and commerce,” said Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. “We continue to vigilantly monitor the spread of COVID-19 and will do so to make sure the number of daily cases continues to decline. It’s is been an extremely difficulty three months for all of us, but the social distancing measures we have put in place has slowed the spread of this disease and saved lives. Today is an important step toward returning to some semblance of normalcy, but it is important for all of to continue following that safe distancing and work directives outlined in Stage 4 of the MI Safe Start plan.” 

“I appreciate Governor Whitmer for her diligence and commitment to reopening the state safely. We look forward to reopening Detroit safely and efficiently,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. 

"We know we still have challenges to face, but moving into this next phase acknowledges the huge strides this state has made to slow the spread of this deadly virus,” said Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “I appreciate Gov. Whitmer’s caution and proactive response throughout this crisis. Her leadership has undoubtedly saved lives." 

 The last few months have been very hard for everyone. I applaud the Governor for doing everything she can to keep us safe,” said Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. “And now that the curve has flattened and I am very excited that we have moved into phase 4 and can have things start to reopen. Economic issues have been very challenging in Lansing and across the state, but we know it was necessary to save lives. Now we are ready to get back to growing our city here in Lansing and the economy throughout the state.” 

5.26.20

Trumpeter Dave Orr is shown performing Taps while the American Legion Post color guard and Veterans of Foreign Wars post stand at attention during the brief Memorial Day services take place at the legion grounds on Monday. (Photo by Becky Kark)

Pandemic fails to halt Memorial Day observances in South Haven

Wearing masks and practicing social distancing, veterans conduct brief service, march through town to cemetery

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

For the past 49 years, Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Jim McCloughan has led the Memorial Day parade in South Haven.

This year, the parade was canceled, due to efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. But McCloughan wasn't about to be deterred from leading a parade — albeit very small — for the 50^th time.

Quietly, without fanfare, and practicing social distancing, he and 10 other veterans from the South Haven area, conducted a march through downtown and to Lakeview Cemetery to honor the approximately 300 veterans of war, ranging from the Civil War to the present time, are buried.

“We should let no barrier of a pandemic honor these people. They gave up their lives not once but twice,” McCloughan said. “They died for their country but they also did not enjoy the opportunity to get married, see their children born and grow up to graduate, walking their little girl down the aisle to get married. Seeing their grandchildren.”

The march to the cemetery took place at 9 a.m., the same time it does every Memorial Day. Two hours later, McCloughan and approximately two dozen military veterans assembled at American Legion Post 49 to conduct another brief tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who sacrificed their lives for their country.

As the Legion's color guard lined up with flags representing each branch of the U.S. Military, three rounds of shots were fired by the honor guard. Then trumpeter Dave Orr, played Taps. The ceremony was brief, but people at Riverfront Park, which the Legion's grounds overlooks, were present – social distancing – but present. They watched in silence, and then, after the service ended, they clapped and told the veterans, “Thank you.”



5.21.20

UPDATED

Today, the Berrien County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to hire South Haven City Manager Brian Dissette as administrator for the county. The board will now begin contract negotiations with Dissette.

5.21.20

SH city manager selected as finalist for Berrien County administrator's job

By LOUISE WREGE

HP Staff Writer

ST. JOSEPH — Berrien County commissioners today are expected to hire South Haven Manager Brian Dissette as the county’s new administrator, Chairman Mac Elliott said Wednesday afternoon.

Elliott said all of the county commissioners have talked with Dissette informally. They will formally interview him today.

“All of the feedback has been positive,” Elliott said. “He has a lot going for him.”

Elliott said that after today’s 11 a.m. interview, he expects commissioners to approve hiring Dissette.

“Then we will proceed with negotiations, put together a contract and bring him on board around the first of July,” he said. Board meetings are being held virtually on Zoom due to health concerns surrounding COVID-19. Residents can watch the meeting and interview streamed live on the county’s You-Tube channel.

If hired, Dissette will take the place of Administrator Bill Wolf, who is retiring June 12.

Elliott said the county received about 15 applications for the position. He said commissioners initially planned to interview two candidates, but one dropped out at the last minute for family reasons.

He said Dissette has a lot of experience managing surrounding municipalities, including having interned with Berrien County in 2002 when 

he was working on his master’s degree in public administration.

“He’s solid,” Elliott said. “The more information we gathered on him, the better in terms of his qualifications and his personal and professional background and his demeanor.”

The South Haven City Council last July approved extending Dissette’s contract for another year and increasing his salary to $110,000, along with paying him a onetime bonus of $5,000.

He was hired as South Haven’s Department of Public Works Director in 2006 before being named the city manager in 2008.

Prior to working for South Haven, Dissette was city manager in Watervliet for five years.

As city manager in South Haven for the past 12 years, Dissette has overseen many infrastructure improvements, including the complete reconstruction of Williams, Phoenix and Center streets, downtown, along with Monroe Boulevard and portions of Kalamazoo Street; $20 million worth of improvements to the city’s wastewater treatment plant; completion of a new water filtration plant; and several million dollars worth of improvements at North and South beaches, Dissette earned his master’s degree in public administration from the School of Public Affairs and Administration at Western Michigan University. A South Haven native, he is married to Kelly Getman-Dissette. They have three children.



5.13.20

UPDATE

COVID-19 deaths increase in Van Buren County

The number of coronavirus-related deaths in Van Buren County has increased over last week, according to figures released today by the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department.

The county now has five deaths, up from the two deaths that were reported last week.

The number of active cases in Van Buren County has also increased to 100, up from 61 reported two weeks ago and the 35 cases reported at the end of April. To date, there are 32 recoveries in Van Buren County from the virus.

Berrien County's death rate from COVID-19 stands at 27, with 470 cases; Allegan County's death rate remains at 2, while cases increased to 168. The number of deaths in Cass County also remains at two as of today, with 46 cases.

Other statistics released by the state health department indicate the majority of people – 64 percent - who currently have coronavirus are between the ages of 30-70. However, the highest number of deaths (68 percent) has occurred in people ages 70 and higher.

Flags at half staff for police officers killed in the line of duty; SH officer remembered

The U.S. and Michigan flags throughout the state of Michigan will remain lowered at half-staff today to mark Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
The City of South Haven is honoring the memory of Patrolman Michael Mc Allister who was killed in the line of duty on Jan. 9, 1976. The South Haven Police Memorial is located on the front lawn of city hall.

“Peace Officers Memorial Day is a time to remember and reflect on the sacrifices law enforcement make for our communities every single day to keep our families safe," Governor Gretchen Whitmer said. “We witness the great work these professionals do day after day, especially during this pandemic as they have been on the front lines in our communities. Let us honor the men and women in uniform who have given their lives in the line of duty, of whom we owe a debt that can never be repaid, their memories will never be forgotten.”
Peace Officers Memorial Day falls within National Police Week, which was established by Congress in 1962 to recognize law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.



5.11.20

SH Farm Market opens Saturday with social distancing

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

At a time when it seems every summertime activity in South Haven has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, at least one will continue – the South Haven Farm Market.

The market plans to open on schedule, Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Huron Street pavilion, according to Market Manager Brad Adamson.

Unlike other outdoor events and activities that draw large crowds which Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's stay-at-home order deems as “unessential” through the month of May, her order does allow for farm markets.

“The executive orders have included farm markets as essential services and has deemed farmers as approved vendors,” Adamson explained. “We feel this (the market) is an essential resource for not only our farmers, but through our SNAP (EBT) program, it provides access to healthy foods for those that need it.”

Over the years, the South Haven Farm Market has grown considerably not only in terms of its vendors but the customers that it draws. In the height of the summer growing season, it's not uncommon for vendors to also utilize neighboring Dyckman Park to sell their products.

This year, however, at least for the start of the market season, Adamson said crowds and vendors will be limited.

“We expect approximately 25 farmers at this time,” he said. “We will be spacing vendors out to promote social distancing. We will also control the total number of guests at the market, as needed, to keep within the distancing guidelines.”

Another change will involve the variety of products allowed for sale. Normaly the market attracts not only growers, but vendors who sell homemade products, such as sauces, honey, maple syrup and baked goods.

That will change, however, when people go to the market this month.

“At this time, we will be limited to farmers,” Adamson said.

Hours for the market are Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. during the month of May. Starting in June through mid-October, hours will be from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays.

5.4.20

South Haven Tribune offers matching ad grant program

Paxton Media Group, publisher of The South Haven Tribune, has established a $250,000 fund to help local businesses in the area get back to full strength by subsidizing their marketing through matching grants.

Area businesses can now apply for a grant to help them recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We realize this is a critical time for our business community, and we wanted to subsidize their marketing through this grant,” said David Holgate, PMG group president.

“As businesses begin to think about opening, even if it’s on a limited basis, it’s vital that they communicate with their customers. We want to be a resource for them to do that.”

The fund is open to all locally owned and operated businesses impacted by the coronavirus, whether or not they are current advertisers.

Grant money can be used for local Tribune print newspaper advertising, special product advertising and digital advertising between now and June 30, 2020. Grants are available for a minimum of $200 and a maximum of $5,000 of matching funds each month. For example, if a business is awarded a grant and spends $200 in advertising, the Tribune will match with a grant of $200 additional advertising dollars to equal $400.

To apply for a dollar-for-dollar matching advertising grant, applications must be submitted online. Enter this url into your web browser: https://bit.ly/2wZek6q

The Tribune will respond within 48 hours.

“A community newspaper is only ever as strong as the community it serves. We know businesses and workers are hurting; we’re hurting, too. But if we can pull together as a community, we can weather this,” Holgate said.

4.27.20

Allegan County Covid-19 cases on the rise;

First death reported

As the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 virus goes up in Allegan County, health officials have announced the first virus-related death in the county.

The individual was hospitalized and had underlying health conditions that were likely a contributing factor, Allegan County Health Department Officer Angelique Joynes announced in a news release issued Friday.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and friends during this time,” Joynes said.. “This is a tragic reminder of why it is so important for everyone to continue to practice social distancing. We have to work together to protect each other and slow the spread of this virus.”

When announcing Friday about the death, Allegan County health officials stated there were 61 cases of Covid-19. This morning (Monday), the number has increased to 69.

In Van Buren County, there are 35 cases and 2 deaths as of this morning.

4.21.20

Broadway Shell gas station in South Haven was  one of nine of 10 gas stations in the South Haven area that was selling gasoline Monday at less than $1 a gallon. (Photo by Becky Kark)

Gas prices fall below

$1 a gallon at South Haven gas stations

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Periodically gas prices dip below $1 a gallon when gas stations wage price wars.

But something unusual has happened in the South Haven area. Since Saturday, the price of gasoline at nine of the 10 gas stations in the area, has fallen below $1, ranging from 96-98 cents per gallon.

The significant drop has nothing to do with stations trying to lure customers in with cheap gas, but rather the ongoing significant drop in oil prices due to the coronavirus pandemic and the governor's stay-at-home order which isn't set to expire until at least May 1.

“I've worked here for five years and I think the lowest price I ever saw was $1.36 a gallon,” said Romello Epperson, assistant manager at the BP Station on Phoenix Road.

Motorists throughout the South Haven area, over the weekend and on Monday were happy to take advantage of the low prices at BP, which is located right by Interstate 196.

“There's been a lot of people buying gas,” Epperson said. “People are bringing in their gas cans to fill up for their lawn mowers before the price goes back up.”

Business was fairly brisk, Monday, at Village Xpress, at the corner of M-140 Highway and Aylworth Avenue.

“It seems like we're selling a lot of gas, but we're not as busy as we would be if people were back to work,” said Sue Walker, assistant manager of Village Xpress. “Because of the corona virus people really aren't going anywhere.”

But like BP, more people are coming to Village Xpress to take advantage of the low prices to fuel up gas containers for lawn motors.

Unlike the South Haven area, Monday's gas prices at filling stations throughout Southwest Michigan were still above $1 an hour, ranging anywhere from $1.29-$1.59.

Even those prices are quite low, according to Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy, which tracks gasoline prices throughout the United States.

As of Monday, six states, including Michigan, had surpassed their lowest average gas prices in over a decade, while five of those states are seeing the lowest prices since the early 2000s, according to DeHaan. Michigan's average price of Monday was $1.45, the lowest it has been since 2003.

"To have thought at the beginning of the year we’d be in the place we are would truly have been impossible, new and multi-year records continue to be written when it comes to gasoline prices,” DeHaan said. “It’s staggering to know that in five of these six states we haven’t seen these gasoline prices in over 15 years, and for many of us, we watch from the living room window, adhering to the orders to stay at home. But there is strong potential that we will see gas prices this summer far lower than our previous expectations, and I’m hopeful by then we’re safely able to enjoy it.”



4.20.20

Firefighters battle house fire

Occupants of a home in Columbia Township managed to safely escape from their dwelling after it caught fire Thursday evening, April 16. Firefighters from Columbia Township Fire Department were dispatched at 8:35 p.m. to the home at 49670 2^nd Ave. to find the basement fully engulfed in flames, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services. The homeowner told first responders that he discovered the fire after electrical power went out and he went to the basement to find out what caused it. Firefighters' efforts to suppress the fire were hampered by the intensity of the flames. And because of the home's rural location, water had to be shuttled to the scene and then pumped several hundred feet from the roadway back to the property. Columbia Township firefighters were assisted by departments from Lee Township, Bloomingdale, Bangor and South Haven. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

4.13.20

SHAES board selects new

fire chief/executive director

By TRIBUNE STAFF

After conducting a five-month nationwide search for a new fire chief, South Haven Area Emergency Services' board of directors has decided to hire a candidate quite familiar with the department and its staff.

Board members announced Friday that they chose veteran firefighter and paramedic Brandon Hinz as the department's new executive director and fire chief. He succeeds current Executive Director Ronald Wise who plans to retire Sept. 30.

Ross Stein, South Haven Township Supervisor who chairs the SHAES board, was pleased with the selection of Hinz.

“Brandon has a solid reputation for being a hardworking, self-motivated and trustworthy member of SHAES,” Stein said. “After multiple rounds of interviews he was clearly the best choice to lead the organization for years to come.

Hinz, who has been with SHAES for a little over two decades, begins his new duties June 1 and will work alongside current Executive Director Ron Wise, who plans to retire Sept. 30, according to Stein.

SHAES provides fire and ambulance service to the City of South Haven and townships of Casco, Geneva and South Haven. Its coverage area consists of 95.3 square miles that is populated by 12,250 year-round residents.

As SHAES' director and fire chief, Hinz will oversee 16 fulltime employees in addition to 30 paid-on-call firefighters, a communication staff and seasonal beach safety interns.

The department operates from three stations, utilizing nearly 20 different types of vehicles, ranging from ambulances to a fire boat to a 93-foot ladder tower. The budget for the department hovers at $2.5 million. In 2018, SHAES responded to more than 2,000 calls for assistance.

Hinz said he is looking forward to his newest role with the fire department.

“SHAES has been an integral part of my life,” he said. “I am very proud to have been a part of this organization for the past 21 years. I will continue to lead SHAES toward all our collective goals with hard work and integrity. Together, we will further our mission of providing the residents of the greater South Haven area with the best fire, rescue and EMS services.

Hinz joined the SHAES staff in 1999 as a paid-on-call responder. He then became a fulltime firefighter and paramedic in 2005. He currently oversees the department’s maintenance service, assists in the training program and has served as an interim captain. In 2012 the department presented him with its Leadership Award.

In preparing for his new job, Hinz is in the process of completing Blue Card Command training, a nationally recognized certification program for fire command officers.

When he's not at work, Hinz resides with his wife, Dawn, and sons Jake and Cal at a farm in Geneva Township where he raises crops and pigs.

4.7.20

Easter services will go on despite coronavirus pandemic - just differently

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Rev. Ron VanLente will head to Riverfront Park Sunday morning to conduct an Easter Sunrise service — alone.

He wants to continue the time-honored Easter service in spite of an historic pandemic that has brought South Haven and the rest of the world to a near-standstill.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's “stay at home” order to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic has forced Van Lente to stand alone in front of a camera to conduct Easter service for his congregation to view online.

“I will be doing the service alone and streaming on Facebook Live. I don't want to encourage people to gather,” said VanLente, who is the pastor at First United Methodist Church.

VanLente isn't the only pastor who plans to celebrate online Easter services.

Most South Haven area houses of worship, including First Congregational, Hope, St. Basil and LifeBridge churches all plan to do so today. Pastors think it's important – especially in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic — to observe Christianity's most important event, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“Nothing can stop the work of God in this world,” said Milan Bittenbender, pastor of LifeBridge Church. “That's how an often-despised gathering of people (Christians) bound by a common faith has not only survived, but thrived for over 2,000 years — through all kinds of plagues, attacks and hardships.”

One of the hardships that now confronts churches is their inability to conduct weekly in-house worship services, due to the “stay at home” order.

The order went into effect March 24 and could be extended longer than its original end date of April 13th, depending on the spread of the virus throughout Michigan and elsewhere.

Rev. Jeffrey Dick of First Congregational Church was the first South Haven area pastor to conduct an online service. He made the decision to do so when it appeared Whitmer would order all K-12 schools to close, which she did March 13th

“First Congregational starting offering services online on March 12,” Dick said. The first service, streamed on Facebook Live, attracted about 50 viewers. Now, more people are watching, and they're not just church members.

“We are reaching many other people with these services,” Dick said. “Facebook shows active viewers and those who click through. They also give some demographics. I'm not sure how exact it is, but the numbers are significant. Even more so are the number of people who post that they are watching on Facebook. We have had 40 to 80 posts - members around town, also in Chicago, Florida, Arizona and California. Also many non-members.”

Most pastors who were interviewed utilize Facebook Live for online services. Others though have been experimenting with other platforms.

Hope Church, for instance, uses Zoom.

“It requires our church family to have an app downloaded, but offers a very stable and flexible platform for what we are seeking to do,” Rev. Steve Smallegan said. “What we are doing is 'live' at 10 a.m. on Sunday morning, but it is recorded, then edited and downloaded to our Facebook page and our church website.”

Finding an online platform to suit the church's needs took effort the first couple of weeks, but is beginning paying off for the church.

“The first week (March 22) we counted about 85 devices connected,” Smallegan said. “This past Sunday (March 29) we were as high as 102 devices connected. In terms of a reaction, people have been appreciative and supportive.”

Online services are catching on at LifeBridge church, as well. “Each week we see new people engaging in the comments - people we haven't seen or met before,” Bittenbender said. “Social media creates an amazing network of people. Lots of people won't go to a church for any number of reasons, but an online connection feels much safer as a way to get a feel for things without having to 'dive in.'”

But ministers admit online services pose drawbacks.

“I miss being with people,” Dick said. “I feel especially sad for the older members who don’t have access to the internet.”

“It's different to not have people together,” Smallegan said. “We are made by God to be relational. Solitary confinement - isolation - is considered to be the hardest form of punishment. We are made to be together.”

Pastors are finding a silver lining, however, in the online services.

“We can't be together doing this, but we are, in fact, together at this moment and we are all doing the same thing, we are worshiping a God who is still strong, good, and great, we are singing, and we are hearing God's Word,” Smallegan said. “This is a new way to be together, a new way to 'do' church, and we're learning we have to do some things a little differently in order to be effective through this medium.”

VanLente and Bittenbender voiced similar comments.

“Actually, the blessing in disguise is that we are forced to enter the 21st century and rethink how we do church and how we are the church,” VanLente said. “We needed to develop an online presence anyway - this just made us move up the timeline.”

“It's possible through all of this that people will simply become more dependent on digital communication,” Bittenbender added. “No matter what happens, we know that the internet is the new front door - to any organization. We want to make sure that when people, for any reason, decide to check out church or the Christian faith, we want the front door to be wide open and welcoming.”

PHOTO: The stained glass window at First United Methodist Church depicts Jesus in the garden of Gethsamane to pray before being arrested, and a day later, crucified.



4.3.20

First coronavirus-related death reported in Van Buren County

Van Buren County reports first COVID-19 death

Each county in Southwest Michigan has now experienced a death due to COVID-19.

Van Buren County reported its first death Thursday. He was a man in his mid-70s with underlying health conditions, according to Danielle Persky, director of health promotion for the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department.

“We want to remind everyone to take the threat of this virus seriously,” Persky said. “Wash your hands, practice social distancing, and only go out when necessary.  Individuals should contact their primary care provider or one of the local health system care advisor lines listed on our website if they believe they may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

As of Friday morning, the county has 12 positive cases, including the death, up from 10 reported Wednesday.

Berrien County reported its first death Monday. It now has 40 positive cases, including the death, up from 38 cases reported Wednesday.

Sixteen of those 40 cases have fully recovered, according to the Berrien County Health Department.

Cass County reported its first death Tuesday.

The number of positive cases in Cass remains at six cases, including the death.

The state and county health departments update the number of positive COVID-19 cases at 3 p.m. each day. For state numbers, visit www.michigan .gov/coronavirus.



Coronavirus impact forces closure of schools for the rest of the year in Michigan

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

For thousands of Michigan students, school's out for summer.

But not completely.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Thursday telling K-12 schools throughout the state to cancel in-person instruction for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. However, by April 28, individual school districts will have to come up with a plan to offer courses in alternative ways, including online instruction. The Michigan Department of Education planned to issue a sample plan, Friday, that districts could use to come up with their own plans.

The governor indicated that each district's plan should be tailored to their community. If the plan relies on some online instruction, the district should ensure every student who needs it has access to an appropriate computer device with an ability to connect to the internet. But, students and families will not be penalized if they are unable to participate in their alternate learning plan.

“While there is no substitute for a highly trained and experienced teacher interacting with students in a classroom, schools must continue to provide, and students must continue to receive, the highest level of educational opportunities possible under the difficult circumstances now before us,” Whitmer explained in her order. “To do so, schools and students alike must be enabled to innovate and adapt, and those efforts must not be unduly inhibited by requirements or restrictions that are misplaced in this time of unprecedented crisis.”

Some of those restrictions include the number of days and hours schools offer instruction. The State Aid Act indicates schools must offer 1,098 hours of pupil instruction each school year.

However, the executive order will waive that requirement as long as districts have an approved plan outlining how students will be taught through the end of this school year. To mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on educational outcomes, a district may adopt year-round school or a year-round program for the 2020-2021 school year or start the 2020-2021 school year before the first Monday in September.

The Governor's order also gives high school seniors the opportunity to graduate this year, it cancels the MSTEP and SAT testing, and postpones PSAT and SAT tests for incoming seniors and other students. In addition, the order stipulates that teachers and other school employees will be paid for the remainder of the school year.

Additionally, the order states school districts should continue to provide mental health care services for students and continue to provide meals for families who need them during the COVID-19 crisis.

After the governor issued her order, area school district superintendents began meeting with administrators and staff to develop instructional plans. Covert Public Schools Superintendent Yolanda Brunt was one of them.

“I will be meeting with my administrative team to discuss how our district will address various issues including graduation,” she said, Thursday, shortly after the governor's order went into effect.

South Haven Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Schooley said administrators and staff have been anticipating the possibility of the governor canceling in-house instruction for the remainder of the school year.

“Thankfully, before this order was issued we were working with teachers to develop ways to communicate (online) with kids.”Schooley said.

When the governor issued the first stay-at-home order on March 12, the school district also sent each child home with a computer device and charger, along with a list of online enrichment courses they could take.

South Haven Schools is also improving internet connectivity for students living in rural areas.

“We've been working through internet issues,” Schooley said.

He's hoping that by April 10, the district's learning-from-home instruction plan will receive approval so that classes can be taught to students.

“It's surreal,” Schooley said, regarding the changes the COVID-19 pandemic has brought for students and teachers. “We're praying for the best, but preparing for the worst.”

Like South Haven, Bangor, too, is aware of the lack of internet access for some students.

“We know technology and internet access if Southwest Michigan is spotty at best for some,” said Bangor Superintendent Lynn Johnson. “How we handle this will be determined within the next week to 10 days. We are currently working on a plan that will fit the needs and resources available for our students.”

The senior class of 2020 is also on his mind as it is on other superintendent's minds.

“Right now we plan on having graduation,” Johnson said. “But whether it will be as scheduled or later in the summer, July or August, is yet to be seen. Much depends on the whole social distancing issue. I know whenever we are able to host graduation, the plan most likely will be outdoors in the stadium, which is an open-air facility.”

4.1.20

Republic suspends curbside pickup of large, bulky items in City of South Haven

Republic Services has announced that the curbside bulk pickup for City of South Haven residents has been suspended at this time. Bulk items are large items that will not fit into trach containers., such as furniture. Alternatively, residents may use the Republic Services transfer station at 200 Aylworth Ave. to drop off their bulk trash. The transfer station will be open to City of South Haven residents only beginning Monday, April, 6th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Yard waste will continue to be picked up at the curb. No yard waste bags are allowed at the transfer station.

An attendant will be on site checking for proof of residency to ensure the transfer station is used by residents only, as well as to monitor traffic flow to promote social distancing/spacing. Additionally, only items that are part of the curbside bulk program will be acceptable.

For more information, contact Republic Services at 877-698-7274.

3.31.20

Rev. Jeffrey Dick, pastor of First Congregational Church in South Haven, and Don Kitchin, a volunteer for the church's food pantry, hold ready-to-serve meals that are now available at the pantry to people in need.

Restaurant owners prepare hundreds of ready-to-eat meals for local food pantries

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

SOUTH HAVEN — Alexander Graham Bell's famous quote “When one door closes, another opens,” is proving true for South Haven restaurant owners Jay and Julia Marcoux.

Like restaurants throughout Michigan, Phoenix Street Cafe and Julia's at the Pavilion – both owned by the Marcoux family – closed in March when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered all “non-essential businesses” to close through at least April 13 to slow the spread of coronavirus.

Jay and Julia and their family weren't content to sit idle. They decided to continue preparing meals, not for customers, but for people in need.

The meals are being cooked and baked for local human service ministry We Care Inc.'s food pantries in South Haven and Covert.

The couple said they chose to do so as a way to show appreciation to those who have helped them over the years.

“When people are in need you step up to the table. And that's that,” Jay said. “God has blessed us over the years. I started in the restaurant business 20 years ago not knowing a thing about it.”

Thanks in part to food donations from fellow restaurant owner Greg Ruppert of Clementine's Restaurant and the Inn at Hawkshead, The Marcoux family is preparing 600 meals each week for families of four.

We Care's Director, Erika Morrison said the non-profit ministry is very thankful for donation of ready-to-serve meals. The non-profit oversees a large food pantry at First Congregational Church, 651 Phoenix St., and a smaller one at Lily of the Valley Church, 30600 M-140 Hwy., in Covert,

Normally, the pantries consist mainly of non-perishable products. Now, however, people in need can pick up the meals, prepared and cooked by the Marcoux family, along with the canned goods and other food essentials.

“The meals are free to anyone in need,” Morrison said. “People can either call our office, 269-637-4342, or simply go up to the pantry. They will give their name and family size, and receive both pantry items and meals, if they would like them. This opportunity for free meals for those in need will continue over the next three weeks, and financial contributions are appreciated.”

We Care's food pantry, which is considered an “essential” service during the governor's “shelter-in-place” order, is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-noon at the congregational church in South Haven, and by appointment at Lily of the Valley Church.

Rev. Jeffrey Dick, pastor of First Congregational Church, was at the South Haven pantry on Monday morning helping to unpack the meals.

For Monday, the Marcoux family had prepared meat loaf, crab salad and vegetables.

“People are getting homemade, restaurant quality meals,” Dick remarked. “Last week they (the Marcoux family) made pulled pork.”

Not only are local restaurants stepping up to help stock We Care's food pantry, so are stores, such as Meijer and Aldi.

“We are the recipients of a very generous donation by Meijer South Haven though the SimplyGive program,” Morrison said. Aldi also helps by donating fresh breads, meat and produce on a regular basis through the Feeding America national hunger-relief organization.

More food could be on the way for South Haven area residents in the form of mobile food pantries.

“We are in the process of putting together some initiatives that will serve our community during this time,” Morrison said. “One of those is offering mobile food pantries in Covert, Bangor and South Haven through Feeding America.”

Feeding America's Mobile Pantry Program works with clients, such as We Care, in areas of high need. The program provides a truckload of food to be distributed in pre-packed boxes or through a farmers market-style distribution where recipients choose what they need.

“If we're able to have the mobile food pantries, it will be at least a month from now as Feeding America requires 30 days (for site approval),” Morrison said. “We are still working toward that, as by then, the needs will have gone up considerably due to job loss.”

3.26.20

Bronson offers curbside testing for COVID-19

PAW PAW — Bronson Healthcare Group is now offering curbside testing for COVID-19 in Van Buren County.

Curbside testing will be held at Bronson Lakeview Outpatient Testing Center in Paw Paw. Bronson health officials stress, however, that to be tested, people must first obtain a physician's order to do so. Bronson officials stress that only a limited amount of test kits are available.

As of Friday, two people in Van Buren County had tested positive the coronavirus, according to Van Buren/Cass District Health Department, while one person has tested positive in Cass County.

“We are asking all of you to help the community-at-large understand that testing in our communities is happening but in order to protect our vulnerable community members at highest risk for severe illness and make best use of the limited supplies and capacity available, hospitals must prioritize,” Danielle Persky, health department director of promotions, cautioned. “This means that individuals who are presenting mild symptoms may not be tested or if tested, their results may be delayed to ensure high-risk tests can be performed and reported expeditiously.”

In order to receive a curbside test, people need to first call Bronson at (269) 341-7788. The testing center in Paw Paw is located at 451 Health Pkwy.

3.25.20

Van Buren County health department announces first coronavirus case

HARTFORD — As the number of coronavirus-related illnesses mount in Southwest Michigan, Van Buren County seemed to be immune from it. That changed this morning with the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department's announcement that a local resident had tested positive for the disease.

“The individual is a female in her 60s who is in stable condition and has been self-isolating at home,” health department officials announced in a news release. “Van Buren/Cass District Health Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances around this case and working to identify individuals who may have come into close contact with the individual” 

“This is the first confirmed case in Van Buren County but judging from other areas of the state, we anticipate more positives,” said Dr. Larry Wile, medical director for the health department. “As of today, there is one confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Van Buren County, zero cases in Cass County, and 1,791 positive cases in the state of Michigan. We urge all residents to please take all precautions to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.”

COVID-19 symptoms can appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus, health department officials said. They are asking anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) to self-isolate to avoid potentially exposing others and reminding the community that it is vital everyone understands the hospital is intended for those who are very sick.

People who suspect they may have symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and call their primary care provider, one of the COVID-19 numbers provided by each local health system, or do a virtual visit with their health system. VBCDHD has local COVID-19 Healthcare Advisor phone numbers listed on their website. It is important to stay home, outside of seeking urgent medical care, to avoid infecting people.  If severe, life-threatening symptoms appear, individuals should go to the emergency room.



3.24.20

Local government officials urge people to heed governor's order to stay home; Bangor issues nightly curfew

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

If people aren't taking seriously Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order to stay home for the next three weeks to slow the spread of coronavirus, several municipalities are giving them a nudge to do so.

Several hours after the governor issued her order on Monday, South Haven Mayor Scott Smith urged city residents to heed the governor's directive.

“I ask all residents and businesses in South Haven to do their part to ‘flatten the curve’ by following the governor’s orders and staying at home,” Smith said from his home. “We will keep residents and businesses informed through our website and social media platforms. We have seen our community come together in remarkable ways during the past several weeks, and I would encourage us to continue to do so by putting others ahead of self.”

Bangor city officials went one step further by enacting a curfew.

The curfew goes into effect today, and prohibits local residents from being outside of their homes from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. until Monday, April 13, the day the governor's executive order ends.

The city council approved the curfew at an emergency meeting Monday afternoon. They also asked citizens to follow Whitmer's order that all non-essential city businesses close until April 13.

“We understand that this is very difficult for business as well as the community as a whole,” Bangor Mayor Darren Williams said. “We do not make these decisions lightly.”

Whitmer's “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order is one of the most stringent orders the governor has enacted over the past week in an effort to control the coronavirus outbreak that has claimed nearly 600 lives throughout the United States as of Tuesday morning.

The order directs all businesses and operations throughout the state to suspend in-person operations except for ones that are considered “essential,” such as hospitals, police and fire departments, grocery stores, banks, gas stations, pharmacies and restaurants that provide take-out food services. The order also directs Michigan residents to stay in their homes unless they’re providing essential services, engaged in an outdoor activity, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, such as going to the hospital or grocery store.

As of Monday, there were 1,328 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Michigan and 15 deaths, according to the Michigan Department of Human Health Services. Closer to home in Southwest Michigan, as of Tuesday morning there was one case in Allegan County, five in Berrien, 3 in Calhoun, and three in Kalamazoo County.

As the number of coronavirus-related cases continues to grow, Van Buren County, so far, hasn't recorded any cases, but that could change as more test sites become available.

Spectrum Lakeland Hospital in Berrien County has made drive-up testing available to patients who have a physician's order, and Bronson Healthcare Group is telling people with symptoms to call their medical provider or make a BronsonConnect video visit. But Bronson has not yet set up drive-up testing sites at its two hospitals in Van Buren County.

“Testing is available but the criteria and decision about who gets tested is dependent upon the individual’s risk and the availability of testing supplies,” explained Danielle Persky, director of health promotion for the Van Buren/Cass Department of Human Health Services. “Michigan Department of Human Health Services is working hard to rapidly increase the list of approved clinical and commercial laboratories for testing and the testing supplies available. As more laboratories are approved and testing supplies available, it is expected that we’ll see more test results reported.”

The guidelines for being tested follow:

• If an individual does not have symptoms (fever, cough, or difficulty breathing), they do not meet the criteria for testing. 

• If an individual has symptoms, they should call one of the numbers listed below for a free screening or schedule a virtual visit.

• Individuals with severe illness requiring hospitalization and do not have other identified illnesses or causes.

“Given the range of testing criteria, it is important individuals are screened first by a healthcare provider for help in determining whether or not they should risk potential exposure at a hospital for testing,” Persky said.

For people who have no symptoms or are experiencing mild ones, the best thing to do is stay at home, health officials stress.

“It is important that individuals understand the hospital is intended for those who are very sick,” Persky said. “They should not go to the hospital if they are only mildly ill. It’s important to stay home, outside of seeking urgent medical care, to avoid infecting people.  If severe, life-threatening symptoms appear, individuals should go to the emergency room.”

3.17.20

Area businesses, workers feeling the effects of COVID-19 crisis

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

“Unprecedented times call for unprecedented actions.”

That's the phrase Southwest Michigan theater owner Carol Moore used to summarize what happened Monday to business owners throughout the state when they were ordered by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to temporarily close or curtail their customer-driven enterprises until the end of March.

For Moore Theaters, it means the 75 employees who help run run Moore Theaters' five different locations in Southwest Michigan, will most likely be temporarily idled.

“We will do our best to tend to our employees,” Moore said. “We're still working out those details. We're hoping to be able to take care of our people.”

Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-9 Monday morning as part of the state's latest efforts to control and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The number of positive coronavirus cases Monday had jumped to 53.

At 3 p.m., restaurants, cafes, coffee houses, bars, clubs, indoor and outdoor performance venues, fitness centers, exercise studios, spas and casinos closed their doors to servicing customers and clients, indoors. The governor's order, however, stopped short of preventing restaurants from offering food and beverages by means of take-out, window service or curbside services.

News of the governor's order didn't come as a surprise to Laura Rusin of Captain Nemo's restaurant in South Haven.

“Once I saw Ohio and Illinois do it (issue orders similar to ones outlined Monday by Gov. Whitmer) I knew we were next,” Rusin said.

Rusin said the restaurant in downtown South Haven will now begin to offer a to-go menu that includes family meals from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., starting this week.

“We can make pans of pasta, salad and quarts of soup,” Rusin said, adding that customers can pick up quarts of Sherman Ice Cream, which the restaurant began selling at its dairy bar last week.

Neighboring Black River Tavern owner Scott Maxwell gave the governor's order mixed reviews.

“We'll get through this, we're just hoping for clarity,” he said. “It feels like its' (the governor's order) just preparing us for the next step – quarantine.”

Maxwell said his restaurant staff will offer to-go service and possibly delivery service to deal with the loss of indoor business.

“We're going to give this (to-go service) a week,” he said. “It depends on the public. There seems to be two schools of thought on this (COVID-19). Some say everything should shut down. And then there's others who think that it's all made up.”

Both Rusin and Maxwell said their two businesses will cope as best they can in terms of keeping staff employed throughout March, but both said they did not have details worked out as of Monday.

However, just about as quickly as the Governor issued her first executive order on Monday, she issued a second one that extends unemployment benefits to workers whose jobs are affected by the COVID-19 virus and who are unable to work or who don't have paid leave.

Restaurant employees, such as Black River Tavern bartender Ashley Valentino are remaining optimistic.

“They're doing everything they can in making sure employees are taken care of,” she said referring to the restaurant's ownership.

Private businesses aren't the only ones affected by the governor's order.

Senior Services of South Haven closed all of its activity centers throughout the county, yesterday.

“We did a robo call to seniors who have come to our center in the last 6 months,” said Assistant Director Michelle Davis. “Our activity centers will close but we have Care Watch managers calling on folks. Even though activity centers will be closed, we will cook and deliver meals for seniors.”

Staff will also be available to answer questions by phone.

Bronson South Haven Wellness Center is also closing its exercise facilities until further notice.

3.16.20

Governor issues order to close restaurants, bars, theaters and casinos to control spread of COVID-19 virus

LANSING — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-9, which temporarily closes theaters, bars, and casinos, and limits restaurants to carry-out and delivery orders.  

Under Executive Order 2020-9, effective Monday, March 16 at 3:00pm, the following places of public accommodation will be closed; restaurants, cafes, coffee houses, bars, taverns, brewpubs, distilleries, clubs, movie theaters, indoor and outdoor performance venues, gymnasiums, fitness centers, recreation centers, indoor sports facilities, indoor exercise facilities, exercise studios, spas, and casinos.   

This order does not restrict a place of business from offering food and beverage using delivery service, window service, walk-up service, drive-through service, or drive-up service. Places of public accommodation are encouraged to do so and use precautions to mitigate potential transmission of COVID-19, including social distancing. Restaurants may allow five people inside at a time to pick up orders, so long as they stay six feet apart from each other. 

These restrictions do not apply to the following locations: office buildings, grocery stores, markets, food pantries, pharmacies, drug stores, and providers of medical equipment and supplies, health care facilities, residential care facilities, congregate care facilities, and juvenile justice facilities, warehouse and distribution centers, and industrial and manufacturing facilities.   

Order restrictions will remain in place until Monday, March 30 at 11:59 pm.    

“This disease is a challenge unlike any we’ve experienced in our lifetimes,” said Governor Whitmer. “Fighting it will cause significant but temporary changes to our daily lives. By practicing social distancing and taking aggressive action now, the state is working to mitigate the spread of coronavirus so we reduce the risk that our health care system becomes overwhelmed. This is about saving lives. Michiganders are tough and we are going to get through this, but it will require everyone doing their part. That means making smart choices and not putting yourself or others at risk by going out in public unless it is absolutely necessary.” 

“We need to move quickly to slow the spread of the virus and protect public health,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “I realize these actions will present temporary changes to the way we live, but they are critical to help ensure our health care system is prepared to treat those who need the most urgent medical care.” 

“This crisis will require business and labor working together to ensure that we are putting the best interests of Michiganders first in order to protect public health,” said Jeff Donofrio, Director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. “We understand that these decisions will impact the way we do business, but the decisions we make now will allow us to get our economy back on track sooner rather than later. We are putting measures in place to help protect the employers, employees, and individuals that will be impacted.” 

To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Governors across the United States have begun implementing similar measures in their states, including Jay Inslee (D-WA), Charlie Baker (R-MA), and Tom Wolf (D-PA). 

Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:  

Fever   

Cough   

Shortness of breath   

The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:  

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.   

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.     

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.     

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.     

Avoid contact with people who are sick.     

If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.   

Replace handshakes with elbow bumps.   

Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.   

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.  

3.13.20

UPDATE:

The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce has set up a dedicated webpage on its website that allows businesses to post any cancelations, closings, policy updates, etc.  The site is at

https://www.southhavenmi.com/covid-19



Coronvirus fears hit closer to home

Governor closes all K-12 school districts in Michigan; LMC closes campuses to students; Event cancellations mount; Robotics team won't be going to state finals

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

If you were looking forward to attending the Chocolate, Wine & Jazz gathering Saturday at Lake Michigan College's South Haven campus, or traveling to Benton Harbor Monday to see who will be crowned the new Miss Blossomtime, you're out of luck.

Those two events and a growing number of other ones in Southwest Michigan are either being canceled or postponed over the spread of coronavirus in Michigan.

At the beginning of this week, there were only two confirmed cases of the disease in southeast Michigan. As of yesterday, that number increased to 12 throughout the state, prompting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order all of the state's K-12 school districts to close, starting Monday, for the next three weeks.

“This is a necessary step to protect our kids, our families, and our overall public health,” Whitmer said. “I am working with partners across state government to ensure educators, parents, and students have the support they need during this time, and to ensure our children who rely on school for meals have access to food. I know this will be a tough time, but we’re doing this to keep the most people we can safe. I urge everyone to make smart choices during this time and to do everything they can to protect themselves and their families.”

Lake Michigan College also is closing its campuses to students and events. The college cancelled all of its classes at its campuses, including South Haven's, today. Starting Monday, the colleges will re-open to employees, but all in-person classes will be canceled. Starting March 23, all classes will be conducted via distance learning if possible. The college is expected to re-open for all classes on campus April 13.

“At Lake Michigan College, safety and health are our top priorities. Currently there are no confirmed or suspected cases of coronavirus COVID-19 on our campuses or in our service district and we’re doing everything we can to protect our students, employees and visitors from this threat,” the college administration issued in a news release. “We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we implement cohesive prevention and response plans that allow us to continue delivering high quality education while protecting public health.”

The closure of school districts and colleges in Michigan, comes on the heels of the cancellation of Michigan High School Athletic Association winter sports tournaments and the FIRST robotics competitions.

No area high school basketball teams had advanced far into the tournament, however, South Haven High School's robotics team was looking forward to its trip to the state finals April 8.

“We received notice that the rest of the robotics season has been suspended and the FIRST championships have been canceled,” Team Ramageddon's co-advisor Kim Wise said Thursday. “While we understand and support this decision, it is nonetheless heartbreaking for our team, especially our seniors, who have worked non-stop since Jan. 5.

In a news release issued by FIRST Robotics, the organization said it made its decision based on recommendations from the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control to cancel or postpone large-scale events until the threat of the virus subsides.

Organizers of smaller events and gatherings are also becoming concerned about coronavirus.

This weekend's Scott Club Concert Series performance featuring pianist Matthew Ball has been postponed. Ball, also known as the Boogie Woogie Kid, had been slated to perform the free concert on Sunday at the Scott Club.

“The South Haven Scott Club and Foundry Hall have decided to postpone the third concert in the series following advice from health official recommendations,” Scott Club member Carol Kunze said.

Two of South Haven's larger service clubs – Rotary and Kiwanis - are considering postponing their weekly meetings until the coronavirus threat subsides due to having older members, while the Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Group canceled its March 25^th meeting.

Reactions from area residents to the sweep of cancellations, postponements and school closures is somewhat mixed, with some saying it's good to be pro-active, and others saying it is causing people to be alarmed.

Earlier today the Tribune posted the following question on its Facebook site: “What is your reaction to the increased number of cancellations due to the spread of Coronavirus, especially in light of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's decision to close all K-12 schools in Michigan for the next three weeks? Also, how are you coping day-to-day with the threat of the disease spreading even more?

Here are responses so far:

“Shutting everything down is going to do more harm then good,” said Kristen Rae Chism. “There has been 40 deaths in the USA in 2 weeks (elderly and immune compromised people). This is because it causes pneumonia. Three-hundred-and-forty people died in the USA in the first 2 weeks of influenza.....tell me again why we are panicking?”

Ronda Lockwood, though, is quite concerned about the virus.

“I'm worried about getting this,” she posted. “I have COPD and asthma. This could be real bad for me and others who have such illnesses.”

Other posts follow:

“The governor made the right decision,” said Annette Wilson. “Now we can just hope everyone gets on board and realizes that lack-of-toilet-paper is not the big problem and that we all need to follow Best Practices to take care of ourselves, our families, our friends and our communities.”

“Being proactive is the only thing we can do as a community, along with the CDCs recommendations,” said Rosalie Plechaty. “We have to learn from the originating countries. I applaud our governor. It will be tough, but this is where churches and communities step in. As they always have.”

Kristina Watson-Exley Ulch had mixed feelings about the growing number of cancellations, closures and postponements.

“I agree, yet don't agree. That's all I'm going to say,” she posted.

3.9.20

Four ballot issues face Van Buren County voters

By ROD SMITH

For the Tribune

PAW PAW — When Van Buren County voters head to the polls, Tuesday, to cast ballots in the presidential primary, they'll also be deciding the fate of several millage issues.

Two county millage renewals and two millage increases will be on the March 10 ballot.

The renewals are for roads and public transit. The requested increases are for veterans and special education students.

The Van Buren County Road Commission is asking for 0.9769-mill for roads for four years, beginning in 2020. Road Commission officials stress that this is a renewal of an existing millage - not the three mills for 12 years that voters rejected twice in 2018.

"This is a renewal millage," said Dan Bishop, the road commission's managing director. "It's been around since 1978. This millage is for repaving roads, sealcoating roads," Bishop said. "Things of that nature. It's not for pothole repair or plowing roads." The money for filling potholes and plowing comes from the state gasoline tax.

The Road Commission customarily uses local funds to match grants to get bigger projects done.

Officials estimate the levy will bring in $3,320,282 the first year.

A mill is $1 of tax per $1,000 of taxable valuation of a property. Generally the taxable value is half, or less than half, of the assessed value. The owner of a property with a taxable valuation of $50,000--worth at least $100,000 on the market--would pay about $49 at 0.9769-mill.

The Van Buren Intermediate School District is asking voters for permission to raise the current 3.3177 mills for special education by 0.90-mill beginning this year and running until 2024. The total millage would be 4.2177 mills. Revenue is expected to rise by $3,730,173.

The money will be used in two ways, according to ISD Superintendent Jeffrey Mills. Part will be used for upgrades to the Bert Goens Learning Center and potentially some programs at Bangor's Behavioral Education Center.

"The other portion of the monies will be used to increase our special education reimbursement to the local school districts," Mills said. The ISD serves Bangor, Bloomingdale, Covert, Decatur, Gobles, Hartford, Lawrence, Lawton, Mattawan, Paw Paw and South Haven.

Subtracting what the state chipped in during the 2017-18 school year, local districts spent $8 million on special education. Of that, the ISD reimbursed the districts by $1 million. Should the increased millage pass, that reimbursement will rise another $2 million.

Work on the Learning Center and Behavioral Center is expected to run $8.5 million. The Learning Center renovations include a new HVAC system, new classroom floors, asphalting the parking lots, new doors and ceiling tiles and remodeling the Special Services Facility.

If the millage is approved, the owner of that hypothetical $50,000 property would see property taxes rise by $45 per year to about $211.

The county itself is asking for two millages - a renewal and an increase.

The increase request is for 0.10-mill levy for veterans for four years.

"It will replace what is called the 'Soldier and Sailors Relief Commission' millage and that was 0.025," said County Administrator John Faul. If the 0.10 passes, the 0.025-mill levy will be canceled, making the increase in effect 0.0975-mill. The levy, if approved, would run $5 on that $50,000 property, as opposed to the current $1.25.

The current millage is strictly for indigent veterans. If the new millage passes, according to Faul, an additional staff member will be hired and the program will be expanded.

"We haven't quite defined what those (expanded programs) are yet," Faul said.  "We've seen a growing need for veterans services." Local vets had asked for the expansion of the program. Local vets also will be asked what services are needed if the millage passes.

Faul said there are 5,000 military veterans in the county. Under the current millage, the county spends $30 per person now. If this passes, that will be increased to $80.

The new millage would likely raise $339,744 when first levied.

The remaining countywide millage is the renewal is 0.2471-mill for public transit for four years. In 2020 it should bring in approximately $800,000 if approved.

"If it doesn't pass we will lose 45 percent of the operating budget," Faul said.

For the $50,000 property, the millage represents about $12 of the tax bill.



3.6.20

Lakeshore Drive flooded

High waves on Lake Michigan and 35 mile-an-hour wind gusts have created flooding along the lakeshore and city harbor in South Haven this morning. The photo above shows the flooding on North Beach and  Lakeshore Drive. The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for the lakeshore until 7 p.m. tonight. Lake Michigan water levels set a new record in February, exceeding the record-high level set in February of 1986, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (Photo by Tom Renner)

4th of July fireworks display doused by projected record-high water levels on Lake Michigan

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Fireworks won't be lighting up the skies of South Haven for this year's Fourth of July celebration.

City officials hinted Monday the possibility of canceling the show, but Thursday they made it official by nixing the popular Light up the Lake pyrotechnics display.

The reason? Record-high water levels on Lake Michigan.

For years, the fireworks display has been shot off over Lake Michigan. The event, which is held annually on July 3, attracts an estimated 50,000 residents and visitors.

“Fireworks are an event South Haven residents and visitors alike have enjoyed over the years, so it is disappointing to reach this decision,” City Manager Brian Dissette said. “The safety of those staging the show, along with those watching, is our primary concern. With Lake Michigan at record levels, we all agreed it would be unsafe to try and host the fireworks off the North Pier, which is really the only place where we could safely launch them and be far enough away from residential neighborhoods.”

Last year, city officials nervously eyed the high water levels on Lake Michigan several days before the fireworks display was scheduled wondering whether to cancel them or not.

“It was a couple of days prior that staff wasn't certain we'd be able to host the fireworks because of the high water levels that were hitting the north pier,” Dissette said. “This year the water is projected to be higher in July.”

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has recorded all-time records for water levels in January and February of this year. The agency is predicting those levels to rise eight to 10 inches higher by July. Higher than normal lake levels will be seen throughout the summer, creating higher wave action and effectively submerging the pier – and making it unsafe for the pyrotechnics experts to stage the show.

Even though the July 4th if still aways off, city officials chose to cancel the $30,000 display now because of all of the logistics involved in planning the event.

Planning begins months in advance and requires coordination between the city, Van Buren County, South Haven/Van Buren County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Michigan State Police, Pokagan Tribal Police and other emergency-rescue personnel from neighboring communities.

“There is a great deal of logistical complexity that goes into July 3 fireworks, which takes months of planning and coordination to execute," Dissette said. "We felt it was important to communicate this decision now so that we didn’t invest time and money into planning an event we won’t be able to host safely.”

A chance does exist, however, for a fireworks display to occur later in the year in South Haven.

Dissette said he has been talking with the South Haven Visitors Bureau about expanding its popular New Year’s Eve celebration by adding fireworks. New Year's Eve in the Haven features ice skating downtown, a youth celebration at the South Haven Center for the Arts and a party in downtown, with music, dancing, street performers, a bonfire, laser lights and the beachball drop at midnight.

“We are considering shifting some of these activities closer to Riverfront Park and adding a fireworks display,” said Scott Reinert, executive director of the South Haven/Van Buren County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This would be a wonderful way to put an exclamation point on the year just wrapping up – and welcoming the new year."



3.2.20

Soggy soil beginning to fray nerves

Abnormally high water table threatens upcoming planting season

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

As lakeshore homeowners anxiously watch Lake Michigan's water level rise, residents inland are nervously eying the ground beneath their feet to find much of it saturated.

One person who's keeping close watch on the groundwater table is Van Buren County Drain Commissioner Joe Parman.

Parman first began working as the county's drain commissioner 14 years ago and prior to that spent 8 years working for Allegan County's drain office.

“I've seen rain cycles come around, but never a water table this high,” he said. “The water isn't soaking in the ground.”

Statistics on groundwater table levels are not kept any longer for Van Buren County, but a look at neighboring Kalamazoo County's groundwater table shows that it hit a 50-year mark in 2009, according to data compiled by the United States Geological Survey agency. However, latest statistics compiled in 2018, show the groundwater table rose two feet higher than in 2009.

The last time Kalamazoo County's groundwater table hit the 50-year high level mark occurred in 2009. Latest USGS statistics show that in 2018 the groundwater table rose two feet higher than 2009.

Increased rainfall over the past four years can be blamed for the high water table, according to Parman.

In February of 2018, Van Buren County dealt with significant flooding. By spring many farmers had to delay spring planting until the ground dried out. The same problem occurred last year.

“The inability to plant last year was mostly due to wet fields,” said Ron Goldy, a senior extension educator for Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center, who specializes in vegetable crops. “We received a lot of rain (last year) and just as the fields were getting dry enough to plant it would rain again.”

Parman expects more of the same this year.

“We're not having the winter like I thought we would,” he said regarding the minimal snowfall received and the number of warmer days. “But the water table hasn't gone down. Inland lake levels are up, I still have water in fields everywhere. If we have heavy rains in the spring, I'm sure I'm going to get more petitions (from inland lake homeowners for drain outlets).”

The worst inland flooding in the past two years that the county drain commission has dealt with is in the Village of Mattawan where a retention pond outside of a housing subdivision overflowed, causing extensive flooding of basements, businesses and roadways.

The county drain commission installed a pump and began piping the water offsite, as a temporary measure. To date, more than 700,000 million gallons of water have been pumped from the site while the drain commission gets ready to construct a new drain connecting to the Cook Drain as part of a long-term solution Now that all easements have been signed for constructing the drain, the project is expected to begin this spring at a cost of $1.6 million.

“We don't do projects that big in this county,” Parman said.

In addition to dealing with the flooding in Mattawan, the drain commission has been asked to relieve flooding that is occurring on Three Mile Lake and Bankson Lake, on the east side of the county.

“We've received petitions for outlets on those two lakes,” Parman said.

2.24.20

Sherman's Dairy Bar to re-open May 1 to accomodate building improvements

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

March signals the beginning of spring and more importantly for ice cream lovers, the opening of Sherman's Dairy Bar.

This year, however, people will have to wait a little bit longer to enjoy their favorite frozen concoction.

To facilitate building upgrades, Sherman's will now re-open May 1, according to Marty O'Connor, general manager of the dairy bar that has become a favorite stop over the year for both locals and visitors, alike.

Upgrades to the building at 1601 Phoenix Road will include new signage and interior improvements.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete renovations to our space on Phoenix Street,” O'Connor said. “We look forward to welcoming old friends, making new ones and helping create new memories for everyone who makes a stop at Sherman’s Dairy Bar a part of their summer plans.”

The improvements come on the heels of Sherman's new partnership with Holland-based Hudsonville Ice Cream.

In November of 2019, Sherman's inked a deal to have Hudsonville Ice Cream produce its ice cream varieties at the company's Holland creamery. Sherman's had stopped making ice cream at its South Haven plant in May of 2019 due to equipment issues. In the interim, the company had some of its products made by other creameries, including Ashby's, based in Ludington.

Sherman’s began as a dairy in 1916 and shifted its focus to producing ice cream in the 1950s. The creamery created traditional favorites while introducing more unique flavors over the years like Grasshopper, Chocolate Malt Supreme and Cappuccino. The full lineup of flavors served at Sherman’s Dairy Bar will be announced this spring.



2.17.20

Two anglers rescued after falling through the ice

By TRIBUNE STAFF

PULLMAN — Two longtime ice fishermen found out the hard way this past weekend that no ice is safe ice.

The men, 60- and 62-year-old brothers, were fishing Sunday afternoon on Lower Scott Lake when they fell through the ice, according to a report from the Allegan County Sheriff's office.

First responders, including a Casco Township deputy who is on the county's dive rescue team, arrived at 4:24 p.m., Sunday, to the scene to find two men in the water and a third man using a small boat in an attempt to rescue them.

The deputy along with a Michigan State Police trooper got one of the men to shore after he had gotten on top of the ice. They then threw a rescue line to the second man. Once he was out of the water and onto the thin ice, they told him to flatten out and roll toward the shore until they could pull him to safety.

Lt. Brett Ensfield of the sheriff's office estimated the men had been in the water 20-30 minutes. They were checked by paramedics and showed signs of hypothermia and had small cuts from the ice but refused transport to a hospital, according to the sheriff's report.

The men had nearly 30 years of ice fishing experience but did not have any safety gear with them.

“We would like to remind everyone that no ice is safe ice,” Ensfield said. “If you are going to venture out on a frozen lake or pond, we ask you to take reasonable safety precautions.”

Those precautions include:

• Telling someone where you are going and when you plan to return

• Bringing proper safety gear to the fishing site, such as a cell phone or radio, personal flotation device, ice picks, whistle, flash light, floating rescue rope, ice cleats or creepers, ice fishing suit, hat and mittens.

• Not walking out on less than 4 inches of clear ice.

The Allegan County Sheriff’s Department was assisted in the rescue by the state police, Department of Natural Resources, Lee and Clyde Township fire departments, and Fennville AMR.

2.12.20

Lucky Lu Lu is reported to be the only Chihuahua that survived after six Chihuahuas were allegedly thrown from the window of a vehicle, last week, while it was traveling in Allegan County. Lucky Lu Lu is thought to be 2-3 years old. (Contributed photo)

5 of 6 Chihuahuas die after being thrown out of moving vehicle's window

WAYLAND — Allegan County sheriff's department is seeking the public's help in locating two people accused of throwing six Chihuahua dogs out of their vehicle window. Only one survived.

The family who is providing care for the surviving dog lodged an animal abuse complaint, Tuesday, with the sheriff's department.

According to the complaint witnesses saw a van on Feb. 6 driving westbound near the 400 block of 124th Avenue, when they saw six Chihuahua dogs being thrown out of the passenger window as the vehicle was still traveling.

Five of the six dogs died at the scene, according to the witnesses, who brought the surviving animal to a safe shelter to be cared for, according to Tammy Shoemaker of the Allegan County Sheriff's office. Shoemaker said she did not know why the witnesses didn't come forward with a complaint when the incident occurred.

The surviving one has been named Lucky Lu Lu by the family now providing foster care for her.

The vehicle is described as a 2004-2006 silver Honda Odyssey.

The passenger in the vehicle is described as a blond-haired white female in her 20s-30s, very skinny with missing teeth. The driver is described as a white man in his 20-30’s, very skinny with missing teeth, and dark longer hair described as “big curly hair.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office at 269-673-3899 or Allegan County Silent Observer at 1-800-554-3633.

Two men arrested on drug charges following investigation

COVERT TWP. — Two Covert Township men face a number of drug-related charges after police found heroin in their vehicle.

Their arrest follows an investigation into the sale and distribution of heroin in the City of South Haven, South Haven Township and Covert Township, according to Van Buren County Sheriff Daniel Abbott.

While sheriff's detectives were conducting surveillance, Tuesday, on the vehicle driven by the 56-year-old suspect they asked South Haven Police to bring their K-9 team to the location of the vehicle.

At 3:10 p.m. investigators stopped the vehicle in the 24000 block of M-1140 Highway in Covert Township. In searching the vehicle they found four bundles of suspected heroin.

Both the 56-year-old driver and a 28-year-old passenger were arrested.

The vehicle's driver was arrested for possession of heroin and violating parole, while the passenger was arrested for possession with intent to deliver heroin and an outstanding warrant.

After the two men's arrest, sheriff's department detectives and South Haven Police obtained a search warrant for the 56-year-old man's residents in the 76000 block of 30^th Avenue in Covert Township. No information was given on whether more drugs were found in the home or not.

The drug-related incident is being forwarded to the Van Buren County Prosecutor's office for review.



2.10.20

VB sheriff to be featured this week on Live PD

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

PAW PAW — Last August, Van Buren County Sheriff Daniel Abbott chased down and captured a man suspected of assaulting his girlfriend, starting her car on fire, fleeing from police and then pointing a gun at them.

Wednesday, TV viewers from throughout the United States will get to see the dash cam video for themselves on a new episode of Live PD presents PD Cam. The show airs from 8-9 p.m. on A&E.

“The pursuit I was involved in in August went viral and they saw it,” Abbott said in an interview in November when he was asked to be featured on the show. “I was humbled and honored. I never do my job for recognition, so it's an honor when someone wants to put you in the spotlight for a job well done.”The incident unfolded in the early morning hours of Friday, Aug. 16 in Bangor when James Ochoa-Rodriguez, 32, allegedly assaulted his girlfriend, started her van on fire, and then fled the scene.

South Haven Police officers tracked the suspect's vehicle and tried to stop it, however Ochoa-Rodriguez accelerated the vehicle and a pursuit ensued on M-43 Highway. Van Buren County Sheriff's Department then took over the pursuit, but were initially unable to stop the suspect vehicle.

As the pursuit continued, Ochoa-Rodriguez allegedly called his girlfriend and told her he was going to return and make police shoot him in front of her.

It was then that Abbott took the lead in his vehicle and used a Pursuit Intervention Technique maneuver to hit the back side of the suspect's SUV and knock it into a roadside ditch. Police dashcam video captured Abbott's successful effort at stopping the SUV. But the effort almost went awry when officers surrounded the vehicle and the suspect tried to get away once again by stepping on the accelerator in an effort to get out of the ditch. Police ended up having to use force to get him out of the vehicle and arrest him.

Van Buren County Prosecutors originally charged Rodriguez with four felonies. In December a plea deal was reached with the suspect who agreed to plead guilty to the felony charge of fleeing and eluding police. The other three charges — 2 counts of assaulting and obstructing police and one count of assaulting his girlfriend were dismissed, according to court records. In January Van Buren County Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Brickley sentenced Rodriguez to 14 months in prison for fleeing and eluding police.

2.6.20

Water nearly covers South Haven's bascule bridge's red warning signs. City leaders anticipate raising the bridge's motor cabinets 1-2 feet to ensure safe operation of hydraulic components that raise and lower the bridge's roadway platform. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Water, water everywhere

New record-high water levels recorded in January on Lake Michigan

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District has announced that January 2020 water levels were higher on all lakes than they were in January 2019, and are expected to continue that trend into the spring and summer.

According to Corps records, lakes Michigan and Huron both set new record high January levels, previously set in 1987. Lake Superior set new record high January levels previously set in 1986. Lake St. Clair tied its record high level set in January 1986.

"It is likely that water levels on lakes Michigan and Huron will set new monthly mean record high levels over the next six months," said John Allis, chief of the Great Lakes Hydraulics and Hydrology Office, Detroit District. "This sets the stage for coastal impacts and damages in 2020 similar to, or worse than, what was experienced last year."

The Corps urges those impacted by the high water levels of 2019 to prepare for similar or higher levels again in 2020. The most recent six-month forecast of Great Lakes water levels shows water levels continuing to be well above average and near record high levels over this period.

The Detroit District monitors and forecasts Great Lakes' water levels and provides the data and analysis on their Website www.lre.usace.army.mil.

Several natural factors contribute to the record high lake levels. Persistent wet conditions across the Great Lakes basin continue to drive high water levels. Many cities across the basin set records in 2019 for the wettest period on record. The warmer than normal temperatures in January led to greater runoff and reduced evaporation across much of the Great Lakes basin.

Late winter and spring is a period of seasonal rise on all of the Great Lakes due to increased rainfall and runoff. Water levels typically peak in the summer or early fall. Significant erosion continues in many locations as water levels remain extremely high. Strong storm systems and resulting large waves have led to substantial erosion along much of the Great Lakes coastline.

To find more information about Great Lakes high water visit this link: https://www.lre.usace.army.mil/About/Great-Lakes-High-Water/ which includes information about how to protect property and investments along the coast and related Corps programs and authorities.



2.4.20

Two seats up for grabs on Bangor City Council

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

BANGOR — Three candidates are vying for two full-term seats on the city council in the upcoming May election.

Rebecca Eisner, Patricia Martinez-Serratos and Jeremy Uplinger are running for the two seats currently held by Eisner and Dan Fry. Fry has chosen not to run for re-election, according to Regina Hoover, city manager. He has been on the council for six years. Local citizens had until Jan. 21 for file nominating petitions. Only three did so.

Elected to the council in 2019 to fill a partial term, Eisner, 48, 128 Wheeling St., has been a city resident for 14 years. Married with five children, she volunteers with the Bangor Community Fire Department.

“I would love to continue to be a part of the City Council where I can express my and other’s (public) ideas to make our city safe, secure, a great place to live and people from other communities like to spend time and visit,” she said. 

Martinez-Serratos, 46, 204 Main St. is the owner and stylist at Pati’s Shear Styles. Married with two children, Serratos moved to Bangor in 1984. A member of the Bangor Lions, she would like to be on the council to be more involved in the community.

“I’ve always been interested on how things are done at this level,” she said. “I've seen it as a citizen, now I want to be able to help in making the decisions to make our city better and grow for the benefit of all Bangor citizens.”

This is her first time running for the council.

A member of the Apple Festival committee, Uplinger, 38, 804 W. Monroe, is seeking a council seat for the first time as well. Married, with six children, he is past president of a motorcycle club. A back injury has prevented him from working resulting in more free time to become involved in the city.

“Since I decided to live in the community, I want to put myself in the community more," he explained.

1.27.20

A group enjoys sliding down Coast Guard hill in their homemade cardboard sled during the 2019 Ice Breaker cardboard sled contest. This year's event is scheduled at 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 1 at the hill. (File photo by Tom Renner)

Popular winter festival gets underway Friday

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

The National Blueberry Festival continues to reign as South Haven's most popular festival, but Ice Breaker remains hot on its heels when it comes to attracting a crowd.

This year's festival is scheduled Friday, Jan. 31-Sunday, Feb. 2 and features a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

It's debatable which Ice Breaker event draws the largest crowds – the chili cookoff, cardboard sled races, fish fling or ice sculpture – but one thing is for sure, locals and visitors view it as one of the town's most popular festivals.

In the Best of South Haven 2019 contest, Ice Breaker earned runner-up honors as the most popular festival in South Haven.

The news didn't come as a surprise to Kathy Wagaman, executive director of the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce, which organizes Ice Breaker.

“I believe after a cold winter folks want to get out and get some fresh air,” Wagaman said. “In addition there are so many unique things to do outside at the festival – curling lessons, being outside at the restaurants and pubs that typically are only open in the summer, campfires, the horse rides, chili, laughter at the sled hill, laughter at the fish fling.”

Ice Breaker gets underway Friday, Jan. 31 with one of its more humorous – some might even say, whacky – events, The Snowsuit Fashion competition. Now in its third year, the competition invites people to don their favorite or least favorite snowsuits to win such awards as “Don't Laugh it's Warm,” “Funky Fashion” and “Glamorous Snowsuit.”

Other tongue-in-cheek events include the fish fling and the cardboard sled race, both on Saturday, Feb. 1.

The fish fling contest works in the following way. Adults and children see how far they can throw a fish. Adult contestants pay $5 to see how far they can toss a real fish, while children pay $1 to throw a rubber one. The winning adult wins half the overall entry fees, while prizes will be awarded to each youngster.

“The Fish Fling is a wonderful event that has resulted in some needed revenue for National Blueberry Festival's fundraising,” Wagaman said. “They had about 200 people flinging fish last year with a long line waiting for a turn...The adults this year will be flinging some big, ugly bottom feeders that we have stored at Bob’s Processing.”

The cardboard sled race also has proved to be a festival favorite. Open to adults, children, businesses and organizations, the race attracts 70-80 sleds made from cardboard and duct tape.

“The fourth annual competition will be held at Coast Guard Hill on Saturday afternoon, and we'd love to see your crazy, cool cardboard creation slide down the hill,” Wagaman said.

Along with the tongue-in-cheek activities, Ice Breaker also offers more conventional winter festival fare – such as the ice carving competition and chili cook-off. Both events will be Saturday, Feb. 1, downtown.

Twenty-seven restaurants will be vying for the Chili Con Carne Award, while dozens of sculptors will be chiseling their frozen creations for the change to win awards, too.

“We have 10.3 tons of ice being delivered at 5 a.m. on Saturday,” Wagaman said. “  That means there will be 54 ice blocks, some 300 pounds, some 600 pounds.”

The largest sculpture, sponsored by Lawn Boys landscaping company, will be carved at Dyckman Park, next to the ice rink and will be surrounded by five smaller ones. The other sculptures will be located in front of sponsoring businesses.

Plenty of activities are on hand for kids, too, during the festival. South Haven Memorial Library, South Haven Center for the Arts and First United Methodist Church are all offering indoor events and Our Town Players community theater troupe plans to stage its annual children's play, “Alice in Wonderland,” throughout the weekend in Listiak Auditorium at South Haven High School.

Due to the reconstruction of Center Street, downtown, the chamber has scheduled to offer a free shuttle service for the festival. Two shuttle services will be available on Saturday, Feb. 1, the busiest day for Ice Breaker.

One shuttle will provide a continuous link from the north side of South Haven High School, 600 Elkenburg St., to The Station restaurant at the corner of Eagle and Kalamazoo streets and then in front of the Warren Center, 540 Williams Street and then back to the high school. The shuttle will operate from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. The other shuttle will make regular stops at the American Legion, 129 Michigan Ave., South Haven City Hall's back entrance on Quaker Street and the Moose Lodge, 1025 E. Wells St. That shuttle will operate from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

A full schedule of events follows:

Friday, Jan. 31

• 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Open skate at the downtown pavilion 
• 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. – Knights of Columbus Fish Fry at South Haven Moose Lodge, 1025 E. Wells St.
• 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Glow skate party at South Haven ice rink, downtown
• 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Snowsuit Fashion Competition at South Haven Brew Pub, 515 Williams St.
• 7:30 p.m. – “Alice in Wonderland” presented by Our Town Players, Listiak Auditorium, South Haven High School, 600 Elkenburg St.

Saturday, Feb. 1

• 7 a.m. – Ice sculpture carving begins, downtown
• 9 a.m. – noon – Curling lessons, South Haven ice rink, downtown
• 10 a.m. – Break the Ice 5K run/walk
• 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. – Snow Haven youth activities, South Haven Memorial Library, 314 Broadway Ave.
• 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Photo booth hosted by LifeBridge Church, downtown
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Family activities, First United Methodist Church, 429 Michigan Ave.
• 11. a.m. – 4 p.m. – Heat the Streets Boy Scout s'mores fundraiser, downtown 
• 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. – Parking shuttle, from high school to The Station restaurantm downtown
• 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. – Shuttle bus service to American Legion, Moose Lodge and City Hall 
  Noon – 3 p.m. – Face painting and glitter tattoos, Golden Brown Bakery, 421 Phoenix St.
  Noon – 3 p.m. – Chili cook-off, downtown
  Noon – 4 p.m. – Horse-drawn wagon rides, downtown
  
  • Noon – 9 p.m. – Open skate at the ice rink, downtown
  • 1 p.m. – Ice carving judging 
  • 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Cardboard sled race registration and preview 
  • 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. — Make a Winter Craft activity, South Haven Center for Arts, 600 Phoenix St.
  • 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Frozen fish fling, Southside Marina, Water Street
  • 3:30 p.m. – Cardboard sled race, Coast Guard hill, corner of Michigan and St. Joseph streets.
  • 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Glow skate, South Haven ice rink, downtown
  • 7:30 pm – “Alice in Wonderland,” presented by Our Town Players, Listiak Auditorium, South Haven High School, 600 Elkenburg St.

Sunday, Feb. 2

• Noon — Euchre tournament at Moose Lodge, 1 p,m, start, $20/team
• Noon – 6 p.m. – Open skate at the ice rink, downtown
• 3 p.m. – “Alice in Wonderland,” presented by Our Town Players, Listiak Auditorium, South Haven High School, 600 Elkenburg St.

1.20.20

Hale block demolition begins

Demolition work began last week on a portion of the historic Hale block on Center Street in downtown South Haven. Buildings along the block were purchased by developer Randy Locker in 2019. Locker plans to renovate the three-story building shown above and tear down other smaller buildings along the block to make way for further development. When the three-story building is renovated it will have retail space on the first floor and apartments on the second and third stories. (Photo by Tom Renner)

1.13.20

Company's plaques are not affiliated with Tribune's Best of South Haven contest

Several businesses have contacted the South Haven Tribune over the past week concerned about emails they have received from Showmark Media. The company sells wall plaques and desktop marquees. In the email the company asks businesses that were featured in the Best of South Haven contest if they would like to buy a plaque in recognition of their award. The Tribune is not affiliated in any way with this company nor any of its products. One local organization who called the Tribune regarding the email solicitation from Showmark Media, said if they had purchased a plaque from the company it would have charged them $150-$170 depending on what type of plaque they purchased.



A new decade; a new MLK celebration

South Haven observance includes lunch, program and time for fellowship

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

For the past eight years, South Haven residents have observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day by packaging rice to give to local food pantries.

This year, however, organizers are going to do things a little differently. Instead of conducting a day service, they're going to honor the late American civil rights leader by putting together a program that pays tribute to his accomplishments.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: His Work, His Message, His Legacy,” will take place from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 20, at South Haven High School, 600 Elkenburg St.

Participants will be offered a complimentary lunch, prepared by the lunchroom staff, and then take part in a program consisting of speakers, music and presentations.

Rosalie Plechaty, a member of the South Haven Area Diversity Coalition, and Jeffrey Dick, pastor of First Congregational Church, are helping to coordinate this year's MLK program.

“After observing the event last year — packing rice and folks leaving quickly — Jeffrey and I thought we could skip the rice, which was becoming expensive, for something more meaningful,” Plechaty said. “We thought having a sit-down lunch to simply share fellowship could be achieved; a true celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King and his message.”

Even though the format of this year's observance will be different, organizers still want to uphold King's message of responsibility and service by asking participants to bring laundry detergent to the event to donate to We Care INC's personal care pantries in South Haven and Covert.

The person or organization that brings in the most detergent will receive the “MLK Trophy of Generosity.”

“We chose laundry detergent because it is greatly needed and very expensive,” Plechaty explained. “Most personal care items are not covered by any kind of cash assistance.”

1.6.20

Risky business

A surfer ventures onto the South Pier New Year's Eve day to catch some high waves on Lake Michigan. Fortunately his actions didn't turn into folly. Other adventurous people who tempted fate weren't so fortunate.  On New Year's day, one of four kayakers perished on the St. Joseph River near Niles. Further north in Holland, two teenagers were swept off a pier at Holland State Park. One person managed to survive. As of today, rescuers have still not been able to find the 16-year-old teenage girl, who was visiting Holland from Flushing, MI.

Rash of vehicle break-ins reported in Bloomingdale

BLOOMINGDALE — Residents here are being warned to lock their vehicles after multiple motor vehicle break-ins were reported over the weekend.

Van Buren County sheriff's deputies say they are investigating complaints of five vehicles being broken into between late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

The vehicles had all been left unattended and unlocked.

Anyone with information about the break-ins is asked to contact the sheriff's office at 269-657-3101.

Deputies are also reminding people to lock their vehicles when not in use and remove all valuable items.

Man arrested for allegedly assaulting ex-girlfriend and her mother

LAWRENCE — A 24-year-old Van Buren County man faces multiple criminal charges after allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend and her mother this past weekend.

Shortly after midnight, Sunday, Van Buren County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a domestic assault that had occurred at a home in the Village of Lawrence. When deputies arrived they were told the 24-year-old man had assaulted his 22-year-old ex-girlfriend, who had obtained a personal protection order against him, and her 67-year-old mom. When they called 911, the suspect allegedly grabbed the victim's phone and broke it, ending the call. When deputies arrived the suspect had already fled out the back door.

With assistance of K9 Kuno and new GPS tracking equipment, deputies were able to find the suspect a short distance away from the house and arrested him on two counts of domestic assault, interfering with 911 communication, violating a personal protection order and probation violation.

12.30.19

A couple smiles for the camera after the 2018 New Year's Eve in the Haven beach ball drop in downtown South Haven. Five hundred beach balls were dropped from hanging nets at the stroke of midnight to ring in 2019. This year, 1,400 multi-colored beach balls will be dropped, each stamped with the city's 150th anniversary logo. (file photo)

South Haven rings in the New Year with beach ball drop

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven area residents and visitors will ring in a new decade with music, dancing and what is fast becoming the town's signature New Year's Eve event – a midnight beach ball drop.

The second annual New Year's Eve in the Haven is scheduled Tuesday evening, Dec. 31, right in the heart of the city's downtown.

Event-goers will have the freedom of walking right down Phoenix Street to enjoy live music, dancing a laser light show, or shopping and eating at local restaurants and shops.

“We'll be closing Phoenix Street from 3 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m., New Year's Day,” South Haven Visitors Bureau Executive Director Scott Reinert said.

Last year's inaugural event attracted several thousand people. Reinert expects even more this year. To get ready for a larger crowd, more beach balls will be dropped.

“Last year, we dropped 500 white beach balls with lights (inside of them) - but the lights were not very visible,” Reinert said. “This year we are dropping a total of 1,400 beach balls.”

The multi-colored balls will come in three sizes – from 12-20 inches, and to commemorate the conclusion of the city's year-long Sesquicentennial celebration, each of the beach balls will be stamped with the city's 150^th anniversary logo.

Like last year, the beach balls will be contained inside large, mesh nets that will be hung from light poles at the intersection of Center and Phoenix streets. New Year's Eve revelers who are lucky enough to snatch one up after the drop will be able to take it home as a souvenir.

While people wait for the midnight festivities they can enjoy other events and activities earlier in the evening.

Events get underway with a youth New Year's Eve celebration from 6-8 p.m. at the South Haven Center for the Arts. Staff there are planning family-friendly activities including crafts, music, refreshments and an 'early midnight' ball drop at 8 p.m. Cost is $15 per family and $10 for member families. To make reservations, call 637-1041 or email info.shca@gmail.com.

Meanwhile at Dyckman Park and the downtown pavilion, ice skating will be offered free of charge starting at 7 p.m. to the first 250 skaters. (skate rental not included).

At 8 p.m. people can enjoy music, dancing and a laser light show, while strolling along Phoenix Street.

“The light shows will be happening periodically throughout the evening from 8 p.m. until midnight,” Reinert said. The entertainment vendor is providing the music, videos on a 15-foot LED screen and the laser light shows. They will be set up at the corner of Phoenix and Center Streets in front of Chemical Bank.”

As an added twist to South Haven's 150^th year anniversary celebration, New Year's Eve in the Haven organizers have put together a photo scavenger contest. People who want to participate will be asked to identify 14 photographed landmarks. The entry form depicting the photos can be accessed online at https://www.southhaven.org/150-photo-scavenger-hunt. The forms can be filled out and dropped off in front of Chemical Bank between 10 p.m.-11 p.m. tonight at the disc jockey stage. At 11:45 p.m. the contestant who correctly identifies the most landmarks will be chosen to receive a basket full of 150 prizes. The winner must be present to receive the basket.



12.23.19

Sherman's Dairy Bar in South Haven is a favorite place to visit and enjoy the company's signature ice cream treats. Earlier this year Sherman's stopped producing ice cream onsite. But next year, the varieties will once again be served up thanks to an agreement Sherman's reached to have Hudsonville Ice Cream produce its recipes. (Contributed photo)

Sherman's inks deal to have Hudsonville Ice Cream produce its frozen treats

By BECKY KARK
Editor and general manager

When Sherman's Dairy Bar decided in May to stop producing its trademark ice cream varieties, some people wondered if the popular parlor would close as well.
But they no longer need to wonder.
Hudsonville Ice Cream announced Friday it will begin making Sherman's longtime favorite recipes at its creamery in Holland.
“Sherman’s has built a notable reputation for its old-fashioned ice cream, creating flavors that have become a staple part of summer in our region, and we wanted to make sure fans of this brand continue to enjoy their favorite flavors next summer,” said CJ Ellens, Director Sales and Marketing for Hudsonville Ice Cream, in a news release. “We understand the importance of maintaining the quality of a historic product people know and love, and that’s why we’re proud to produce Sherman’s Ice Cream next year.”
Sherman's stopped producing its ice cream flavors onsite earlier this year for a number of reasons, including equipment issues. Although it stopped producing its frozen concoctions, the dairy bar was able to keep serving customers with ice cream that it still had in large freezers. Later in the season, Sherman's had some of its products made by other creameries, including Ashby's, based in Ludington.
But this month, a deal was reached with Hudsonville Ice Cream, another popular creamery in West Michigan.
“Sherman’s has a rich family heritage with a strong local loyalty, much like Hudsonville, so we are happy to partner with them to continue that legacy,” said Bob Eisenman, owner of Sherman’s Ice Cream for the past 30 years, in a news release. “Being part of Sherman’s for so many years has been such a meaningful experience for me, and I am retiring with fond memories of the many people who are part of the fabric of Sherman’s and will be moving forward – our employees, our supporters, and people from near and far who make a visit to Sherman’s part of their lives every year.”
Although Eisenman is retiring, he will still be a part of Sherman's Dairy Bar, according to Identity, a Detroit-based public relations firm that Hudsonville Ice Cream contracts with who wrote the news release. Neither Eisenman nor Hudsonville Ice Cream officials could be reached for comment on Friday.
Sherman’s began as a dairy in 1916 and shifted its focus to producing ice cream in the 1950s, bringing then co-owner Port Sherman’s vision to life. The brand created traditional favorites while introducing more unique flavors over the years like Grasshopper, Chocolate Malt Supreme and Cappuccino. The shop is open from March through October with Sherman’s flavors becoming available once again in March.


12.16.19

The photo above is one of 20 local landmarks people will be asked to correctly identify as part of South Haven's 150 Years in the Making photo scavenger contest. The winner will receive a basket filled with 150 prizes. The contest is part of South Haven's year-long Sesquicentennial celebration.

Sesquicentennial contest gives participants a chance to win 150 prizes

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

SOUTH HAVEN — You've lived in South Haven all of your life.

You know the town forward, backward and inside out.

Or do you?

Area residents will have the opportunity to put their knowledge to the test by participating in the South Haven 150 Years in the Making photo scavenger hunt.

The contest is a final tribute to South Haven's year-long Sesquicentennial celebration, according to Rosalie Plechaty, a member of the town's 150th anniversary committee.

“We were meeting at the Visitor's Bureau about New Year's Eve and Anna Krajecki (a member of the committee) thought it would be fun to do a photo scavenger hunt...and then bingo,” Plechaty said.

Unlike most scavenger hunts where one has to physically look for clues that lead to a prize, the clues in the 150 Years in the Making contest can be easily accessed online at https://www.southhaven.org/150-photo-scavenger-hunt. There contestants will be able to download an entry form that consists of 20 photos depicting landmarks throughout South Haven.

“Tom Renner (another committee member), along with input, chose the landmarks - some easy, some difficult,” Plechaty said. “We really wanted to make this about South Haven and celebrate our landmarks.”

The person who correctly identifies the most landmarks will win a prize consisting of 150 gifts donated by South Haven area businesses and individuals.

“What fun to roll out 150 items from South Haven,” Plechaty said. “We are getting great prizes. Gift certificates from restaurants, to memberships to area museums, commemorative stamps from the Post Office, to T-shirts and notecards depicting South Haven.”

Although participation in the contest is relatively simple, there is one hitch. Entry forms must be physically dropped off between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m., Dec. 31, at the disc jockey stage in front of Chemical Bank during downtown's New Year's Eve celebration. In the case of a tie, the winner will be randomly selected from among the entries with the most correct answers. The drawing will occur at 11:45 p.m., just prior to the midnight beach ball drop. Winners must be present to win the basket of prizes.



12.9.19

Police seize large amount of dangerous drug

By TRIBUNE STAFF

PAW PAW — A California man is expected to face drug charges after Michigan State Police found and seized a large supply of Fentanyl from his vehicle, Thursday.

Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic opioid similar to morphine, but 50-100 times more potent.

“The amount of fentanyl involved in this case is alarming and not typical of what we see day to day,” said Capt. Michael Brown, commander of MSP’s Fifth District in a news release. “A small dose can be deadly. Three kilograms equals out to nearly 3 million doses. Our Hometown Security Team did an excellent job intercepting these drugs.”

Police found the Fentenyl in the vehicle while conducting traffic patrol along Interstate 94 in LawrenceTownship, according to Sgt. Joe Patino.

When they stopped the 23-year-old California man's vehicle and began talking to him they became suspicious.

“There were indicators of criminal activity based on statements,” Patino said. Troopers were then given consent to conduct a search where they found the packaged drugs that had been hidden.

In addition to the driver, there was also a female in the vehicle. After interviewing the driver and passenger, Police determined the driver was responsible for the narcotics and arrested him for possession with intent to deliver a schedule 2 controlled substance valued at more than $1,000. The female passenger provided a statement to police and was released.

12.2.19

Spreading holiday cheer

Santa Claus takes a few minutes to greet children during the Holiday in the Park celebration, Friday, in downtown South Haven. The celebration included a pet parade, ice skating, s'mores roasting, Karoake, and the official lighting of the city's Christmas tree. (Photo by Tom Renner)

Saving the grain

Firefighters from South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES) and Ganges Township started their Thanksgiving day battling a fire that engulfed a grain dryer at the Hamlin Farm on 111th Avenue near 66th Street in Casco Township. The departments responded at 7 a.m. When they arrived the grain dryer was engulfed in flames. Water needed to be shuttled by tankers to the fire scene so that firefighters could put out the blaze, and protect nearby storage silos that contained more than 100,000 bushels of grain. There were no injuries reported. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

11.25.19

After 31 years, forensic genealogical testing leads to identification of 'I-196 Jane'

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

COVERT — For years, police have referred to the skeletal remains of a young woman found here in 1988 as “I-196 Jane.” But, now, after 31 years, police have finally been able to figure out her real name - Marcia Kaylynn Bateman.

Michigan State Police from the Paw Paw post announced the woman's identity Friday after contacting her family members in Oklahoma City, Okla.

“Marcia's family members have been contacted and are grateful to know their loved one has been located,” state police stated Friday in a news release. “Her family is hopeful that investigators will determine how she ended up deceased in Michigan.”

Bateman was last seen alive in May of 1988. It was a hunter who first discovered the 28-year-old woman's remains in October of 1988, several months after her family had reported her missing.

“Marcia was known to visit family/friends in the Dallas, Texas and Los Angeles, Calif. areas and may have visited these cities prior to going missing,” police said.

When her body was discovered adjacent to the interstate by County Road 378, Michigan State Police investigators determined Bateman had been deceased for a number of months before being found.

“It is estimated the victim died, or was placed at the location, three months to a year prior to being found,” said State Police D/Sgt. Scott Ernestes in an interview in 2018. “We don't know if foul play was involved.”

Police spent years trying to identify the young woman's skeleton.

“As the years went by, investigators used all available technology and investigative means to try to identify “I-196 Jane”, however, all were unsuccessful, and the case went cold,” Henning said.

But in June of 2018, state police from the Paw Paw post decided to re-open the case.

“When I picked up the file I thought let's put it out there,” Ernestes said at the time of the most recent investigation.

In 2018, police released photographic renderings of what Bateman may have looked like and began utilizing genealogy DNA to help identify the young woman.

In April of this year, after receiving a grant from Kalamazoo Mortgage, the Paw Paw post detectives partnered with BODE Laboratories for processing Bateman's DNA.

In July, BODE gave the processing results to detectives who then partnered with the DNA Doe Project, non-profit volunteer organization that identifies unidentified deceased persons using forensic genealogy.

A month later, DNA Doe Project gave police leads regarding the potential identity of Bateman.

After studying the leads, police this month were finally able to determine Bateman's identity and contact her family, ending the three-decade mystery of exactly who I-196 Jane was.

PHOTO: This photo shows Marcia Bateman as a teenager growing up in Oklahoma City, Okla. Her skeletal remains were found in 1988 by Interstate 196 and County Road 378 in Covert Township.

11.18.19

Miss and Mr. South Haven contestants

Seven contestants will be competing in the 2020 Mr. and Miss South Haven scholarship pageant, at 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23 in Listiak Auditorium of South Haven High School. Contestants are pictured above. Sitting from left are Katherine Schooley, Jackson Williams and Katie Wertheimer. Standing from left are Deisy Calderon, Makayla Moore, Ameerah Burton and Chloe Mielke.

11.12.19

Winter storm blankets South Haven area with a foot of snow

Residents throughout Van Buren County are spending this morning digging out from a foot of snow that blew into Southwestern Michigan.

The snow began falling shortly after 5 p.m., Monday, and steadily continued throughout the evening making driving treacherous for people going to and from work.

The heavy snowfall closed many schools today in Southwestern Michigan including South Haven.

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning at 5 p.m. Monday. It will remain in effect until 5 p.m. today.

The snow shower intensity is expected to decrease by early this afternoon, however wind gusts between 35-40 miles per hour will cause significant blowing and drifting of the snow today, according to the National Weather Service.

Serious travel impacts are anticipated into midday due to sudden whiteouts and slippery, snow-covered roads, especially along interstates I-196 south of Holland and I-94 west of Kalamazoo.

Along with the sudden burst of Ol' Man Winter, area residents are also dealing with colder-than-normal temperatures.

The average temperature for this time of year in Southwestern Michigan is normally in the 40s. However, today's high is predicted to be only 26 degrees with wind gusts as high as 38 miles per hour.

11.6.19

Not in our town

South Haven voters say no to commercial marijuana businesses

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven voters made it clear Tuesday they don't want recreational marijuana businesses in town.

City voters approved a referendum ballot issue to create an ordinance to ban commercial cannabis enterprises by a margin of 645-537. Nearly 1,200 of the city's 3,500 registered voters cast ballots.

The referendum came about in August when a group, called the Concerned Citizens of South Haven, formed and gathered enough signatures to put the issue on the November ballot.

South Haven now joins a growing number of communities in Michigan who don't want recreational marijuana businesses.

The Concerned Citizens group has attended city council meetings consistently over the past several months to voice their opposition to recreational businesses.

A day before Tuesday's election they were at the city council meeting to voice concerns.

“Statistics show drug abuse on the uprise with young kids leading the way,” said Joe Wilkins, a South Haven resident and pastor. “How many more precious lives do we have to lose to a prison or gave? I ask the council and residents, before you consider voting, please remember that parent who is forced to look at an old picture just to get a glimpse of a child they once knew.”

Proponents of recreational marijuana businesses have stated that such enterprises will provide more jobs to local residents, but opponents say the price may be too high in terms of increased drug abuse.

“Young people are our future,” said Ron DeMaso. “I believe there are better paths in creating economic vitality in this community.”

The referendum vote occurred as city council members were considering whether to allow medical and recreational marijuana businesses to locate in town and what sections of town they could reside.

Currently, the city council is determining if it wants to allow medical marijuana facilities to locate east of Blue Star Highway, an area of the city where there are few residential homes. But a decision has not yet been made.

Schlack, Arnold win SH city council seats

Ward 3 recount may occur

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven voters elected two new members to the city council following Tuesday's election. Jeff Arnold, a former city council member, defeated newcomer Nadine Newman for the Second Ward seat, while Third Ward incumbent Steve Schlack narrowly retained his seat by four votes, according to unofficial results.

Arnold defeated Newman 212-120,while Schlack kept his seat by a 209-205 margin.

When interviewed after election results were posted Tuesday evening, Hanny said it was too early to tell whether he would seek a recount.

He thanked voters for their support, and said, “it (a recount) is something I'm considering but it's too early to say.”

Hanny, 51, is a youth development professional for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is married with two children. He's a member of Bronson Safe Kids of Greater South Haven Advisory Committee, the South Haven Superintendent Advisory Committee, a trustee, coach and volunteer for South Junior Youth League and a volunteer for South Haven Public Schools Athletic program.

Schlack, 52, is finishing his first four-year term as a city council member. He said he sought re-election to make sure the concerns of Ward 3 residents, many of whom are second home owners, are heard.

“I have worked very hard to protect the rights and make sure Ward 3 has a voice when they personally may not be up to date on current events,” he said. Creating housing options for city residents is an issue high on Schlack's list of goals for the city.

“I have constantly voiced my opinion that the surrounding townships and the city need to work together solving affordable housing opportunities for younger families starting out in life,” he said. “I am grateful to city staff to see this really starting to come to light with making some progress with South Haven Township and the Housing Commission with continued work sessions.”

Arnold, 51, will succeed Clark Gruber, who was term limited. Arnold is a teacher at South Haven High School. A previous city council member, he currently serves on the South Haven Housing Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Like Schlack, Arnold said the city needs to address housing and job issues.

“The issues are linked, so improvements in one will help the other,” he said. “I think the city staff has a good start in these areas and I hope that my past experience and my willingness to listen to the voters in Ward 2 can help the city speed the process along.”

PHOTOS: Steve Schlack (top photo), Jeff Arnold.





11.4.19

Decorating for the holidays

Volunteers spent part of Friday decorating a large spruce tree in front of South Haven City Hall with Christmas ornaments and lights. Approximately 50 volunteers, including members of South Haven High School's wrestling team, and SHOUT for South Haven, decorated downtown and the Dyckman Avenue drawbridge. An official tree lighting ceremony and other activities will take place Friday, Nov. 29 downtown. Activities include the Santa Paws pet parade, Christmas Karaoke, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, ice skating, holday treats, an ornament craftmaking class and Caring Circle Hospice's lighting of luminaries. (Photo by Tom Renner)

11.1.19

This is the altered photograph, downloaded from President Trump's Twitter feed, that shows a K9 receiving the medal of honor. In the original photo,  taken in 2017, Vietnam War veteran Jim McCloughan of South Haven was shown receiving the medal.

Altered photo doesn't bother Medal of Honor recipient

Jim McCloughan calls K9 wounded in Isis raid a hero, too

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Some people might be offended if a photograph of their face was replaced by a dog's and then re-tweeted all over the world courtesy of the president of the United States.

But not Medal of Honor recipient Jim McCloughan.

When McCloughan, of South Haven, got word Wednesday evening from multiple media outlets that President Donald Trump had re-tweeted the altered photo of a K9 receiving the Medal of Honor from the president in 2017, rather than McCloughan, the Vietnam veteran shrugged it off.

In fact, at first he wouldn't respond to the phone calls because he was in the middle of watching a baseball game. Instead he waited to return calls at commercial breaks.

“Jim isn't offended,” said his wife, Cherie.

Media outlets report that the photograph is one taken by the Associated Press two years ago when Trump presented McCloughan with the U.S. Military's highest honor for bravery.

The K9 in the photo is Conan, a Belgian Malinois, who was wounded while assisting in the raid that resulted in the death of Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi last weekend. K9 Conan was brought along to help find tunnels where ISIS soldiers and al-Baghdadi were hiding when he was shot at.

Cherie McCloughan explained that when her husband, a dog lover, was serving as a medic in the U.S. Army he would sometimes have to go into tunnels and was often accompanied by a K9 when doing so.

McCloughan told WWMT-TV Wednesday evening that he considered Conan a hero.

The image of Conan, rather than McCloughan, receiving the Medal of Honor from Trump in 2017, was first shared by The Daily Wire, a news and opinion website that is considered conservative.

When Trump received the photo, he tweeted, “Thank you Daily Wire. Very cute recreation, but the “live” version of Conan will be leaving the Middle East for the White House sometime next week!”

The altered image of Conan receiving the Medal of Honor, with the emblem of a dog's paw replacing the actual medal, kept the McCloughans very busy Wednesday evening and Thursday, dealing with the media.

According to Cheri, they were called by staff from CNN, The New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, Inside Edition, media outlets from Michigan, even a Russian TV reporter.

“Who'da thunk,” Cheri said.

10.21.19

Community Foundation receives boost in funding

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

It took 15 years, but the Greater South Haven Area Community Foundation has finally been recognized as an independent foundation by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, and more importantly, it now has a nearly $600,000 financial windfall to invest.

The news came about earlier this week after the South Haven foundation received accreditation from the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. When that occurred, the Kalamazoo foundation agreed to transfer $587,300 from its South Haven Community Foundation funds to the local foundation and its youth fund.

“We are one of the smallest community foundations that has met those standards,” said Jim Marcoux, executive director of the South Haven foundation.

Fifteen years ago, Marcoux envisioned a local foundation with a local board to manage endowments and provide grant funding to local non-profits. When the South Haven foundation was formed it requested that money being managed by Kalamazoo's South Haven Community Foundation funds be transferred. But the Kalamazoo board was hesitant to do so.

“We met with Kalamazoo in 2004 and said 'we're trying to be independent,'” Marcoux recalled. “We were told 'you'll never make it.' They felt we were too small.”

South Haven had another problem – no money.

“We had goose eggs, zilch,” Marcoux said.

Slowly but surely that changed.

The South Haven foundation now manages more than $1.5 million in funds in 19 separate endowments. It also provides approximately $30,000 in grants each year to non-profits and community projects.

“We are proud to support the Greater South Haven Area Community Foundation in their growth and progress,” says Joanna Donnelly Dales, vice president of Donor Relations at the Kalamazoo Community Foundation. “Attaining National Standards accreditation, nonprofit status and steady growth demonstrates their continued commitment to the greater South Haven community and its well-being.”

Andy Barnes, president of the South Haven foundation, said he was pleased of the Kalamazoo foundation's decision to transfer funds to the local group.

“This allows us to strategically support programs that enhance the quality of life of South Haven residents and surrounding communities through education, economic development and arts and culture,” he said.

Most recently, the South Haven foundation agreed to provide a matching grant of up to $25,000 for a splash pad that is under construction at the city's South Beach. The foundation and its endowment partners also initiated the Kids Collaboration summer program to provide summer activities to youngsters in the South Haven area.

The transfer of $587,300 in unrestricted funds from the Kalamazoo foundation will now allow the foundation to provide even more grant funds to non-profits and community projects, Marcoux said.

In looking toward the future, the South Haven foundation hopes to hire a director to manage its growing amount of funds.

“Up to this point, we're 100 percent volunteer,” Marcoux said.

10.18.19

Covert police investigating possible drug overdose death

By JULIE SWIDWA

HP Staff Writer

COVERT — Covert Township police are looking into a possible drug overdose and want to talk to two people who dropped a man off at an area hospital.

Covert Township Police Chief J. Allen said Jayson Charles Piper, 36, from Brookfield, Ill., was pronounced dead at Bronson South Haven Hospital after two men dropped him off recently.

Investigators are waiting for the final results from an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. At this time, police believe Jayson Piper had been at a party in the Covert/South Haven area.

Anyone with information, including the identity of the two people who dropped Piper off at the hospital, is asked to call the Covert Township Police Department at 269-764-8100.





10.14.19

South Haven splash pad work to begin this fall

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Contractors are expected to break ground this fall for a new splash pad near South Beach and some youngsters are quite eager for it to be completed by Memorial Day of 2020.

“When there are tourists and they don't have a life jacket, they should be able to play at the South Haven splash pad,” said Heather Spencer, who was in attendance at Monday's South Haven City Council meeting to hear a contract had been awarded for construction of the project.

Spencer's little sister was more simplistic: “I like splash pads,” she said.

Compton Inc. of South Haven got the nod from city council members to build the mini water park after submitting the low bid of $612,760. Three contractors bid on the project, with estimates ranging from $612,760 to $634,800.

“It's a competitive bid and a local company got the project,” Mayor Pro Tem Clark Gruber commented regarding Compton Inc. being chosen to build the splash pad.

Most of the cost for the project is coming from a state grant and donations from community groups. The city obtained a matching $300,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources earlier this year and has accumulated nearly $90,000 in local donations since then.

“We've received funding from the South Haven Community Foundation, American Twisting, South Haven Rotary Club, South Haven Visitors Bureau and Albemarle Corp., said City Manager Brian Dissette. “We're at $86,700 as of this evening. That's the real good news on the project and we'll continue collecting donations.”

The city is also helping to pay for the project through several other funding sources, including beach parking fees, the Downtown Development Authority and the capital projects fund.

The city had originally estimated the splash pad would cost $568,500 to build, but several months ago at the suggestion of the Planning Commission the pad's site plan was revised to include safer pedestrian access to and from Water Street to the splash pad.

When completed the splash pad will resemble the Michigan Maritime Museum's tall ship, Friends Good Will and will accommodate approximately 100 people who can run under the nautical-designed fountains and other devices to cool off during hot days at the beach.

Elementary students in South Haven who were polled earlier this year, overwhelmingly chose the ship design over another one that consisted mainly of decorative water fountains.

Splash pads are becoming more popular in shoreline communities along Lake Michigan where rip currents and high waves can make swimming conditions dangerous.

“The intent of the project since its inception has been to create a safe place for children to have an alternative place to play instead of Lake Michigan when hazardous conditions exist such as dangerous

currents or elevated E.coli levels,” said Department of Public Works Director Bill Hunter.

10.7.19

BL-196 'road diet' restriping project slated to begin Wednesday

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

One of South Haven's main roadways will be going on a “diet” starting this week.

Workers are expected Wednesday to begin converting a portion of the Interstate-196 business loop from five to three lanes. Reduction of lanes along state trunklines is often referred to as a “lane” or “road diet.”

The project will take place on the business loop from Phoenix Street to Aylworth Avenue and include the local streets of Broadway Avenue and LaGrange streets.

Compton Inc. of South Haven pitched the low bid of $138,455 for the restriping project, which the company plans to complete later this fall. When finished, the roadway will consist of a three-lane configuration that includes two travel lanes, a turn lane and bike lanes on the outer section of the roadway.

Over the past few years, the City of South Haven has partnered with planning and engineering firm Abonmarche to undertake planning and solicit public input on the project before pursuing the implementation of a road diet. The first phase is a planned trial phase to ensure the proposed road diet functions as anticipated and will simply entail restriping the road.

“No permanent changes will be made to the existing infrastructure until after the trial period is over and the functionality of the street can be evaluated and additional public comment solicited” stated Bill Hunter, Public Works Director. “We’ll do an assessment after we have had a full year of operation to determine how the changes are working.”

The Michigan Department of Transportation, which oversees interstate business loops throughout the state, first began experimenting with lane reductions on certain highways in the late 1980s as a way to improve the safety of motorists while also acknowledging realizing that the number of vehicles using the multiple-lane roadways has been reduced over the years.

Now commonplace in Michigan, more communities are turning to road diets as a strategy to better manage public works budgets while creating a safer space for all users of the roadway, whether they be motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists.



Car fire in Casco

Fire destroyed a vehicle, Saturday, at a residence in Casco Township. South Haven Area Emergency Services responded to the fire at 4:40 p.m., Saturday, at the home located on Blue Star Highway, near 102nd Avenue. The owner of the vehicle told them he was working in his garage when the fire started. He was able to get the vehicle out of the garage before it became engulfed in flames. He was not injured and there was no damage to the garage. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)



VB deputies investigating three shooting deaths

By TRIBUNE STAFF

PAW PAW — Van Buren County sheriff's department is now investigating three shooting deaths after a couple from Almena Township was found dead in their home, Wednesday morning, but stress the couple's death is not related to a shooting death that occurred two days earlier at a home in the northern portion of the county.

Deputies found out about the two latest deaths after receiving a phone call shortly before 10 a.m. informing them that someone had been found deceased in a residence in the 46000 block of 30^th Street.

Deputies went into the residence and found a husband and wife dead from apparent gun shot wounds, according to a sheriff's department news release.

Police do not suspect foul play in the shooting death, according to Sgt. Tony Evans. The sheriff's criminal investigations unit is waiting for autopsy results. Evans, said it is not known at this point what caused the deaths of the husband and wife, whose names are not yet being released, but said suicide may be suspected. “We're leaning to something like that,” he said.

Earlier this week, deputies responded to the first shooting death, this time at a residence in Columbia Township.

The incident unfolded Monday when deputies were dispatched at 5 p.m. to a residence in the 49000 block of County Road 384 for a report that a 53-year-old man from Grand Junction had been shot.

When deputies arrived, they found the man, who had sustained a single gunshot wound. Lifesaving efforts were continued by rescue staff, however the subject died of his gunshot wound while at the residence.

Other people, who the sheriff's news release referred to as “involved parties,” were still at the residence, but the sheriff's department has not elaborated any further, other than to say the incident is continuing to be investigated.

9.27.19

Aerial spraying ordered in SW Michigan to combat mosquito-borne disease

For the past several weeks school districts throughout Southwest Michigan have been spraying their athletic fields with mosquito repellent because of the Eastern Equine Encepahlitis outbreak. Now the state health department will be going one step further because of the wide geographic area where EEE has been reported and because of the warmer weather that is being predicted for next week.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with 14 county health departments plan to conduct aerial spraying in high-risk areas to combat further spread of the deadly EEE disease.

Spraying is scheduled to take place at 8 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 29, but will be dependent on weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to visit www.Michigan.gov/EEE for up-to-date information.

According to a news release from MDHHS, spraying will occur in the following 14 counties: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lapeer, Montcalm, Newaygo, St. Joseph and Van Buren. All of those counties have cases of EEE in humans, animals or both.

Aerial spraying will be conducted by low-flying aircraft similar to crop dusting, beginning in the early evening and continuing up until 4:30 a.m. the next morning, in areas of concern, according to a news release from the Allegan County Health Department. Mosquito control professionals will apply approved pesticides as an ultra-low volume (ULV) spray. ULV sprayers dispense very fine aerosol droplets that stay suspended in the air and kill adult mosquitoes on contact. This is a tactic other states, including Massachusetts and Rhode Island, have recently employed to combat EEE.

The product being used is called Merus 3.0.  It is an EPA-registered, organic botanical adult mosquito insecticide  containing five percent pyrethrins, which are naturally found in chrysanthemum flowers. Merus 3.0 can be used around organic crops and gardens. In general, health risks are not expected during or after spraying. No special precautions are recommended; however, residents and individuals who have known sensitivities to pyrethrins can reduce potential for exposure by staying indoors during spraying. Aerial spraying is not expected to have any impacts on surface water or drinking water.

“We have been assured that state experts have evaluated the safety and efficacy of the proposed spraying program,” said Dr. Larry Wile of the Van Buren/Cass Public Health Department.

Even though the state health department plans to conduct aerial spraying to eliminate mosquitoes that carry the EEE virus, officials caution that risks of being infected can still occur.

“Although the aerial spray is considered necessary to reduce human risk, it will not eliminate it. Residents must continue to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Lindsay Maunz, public information officer for the Allegan County Health Department.

SH man arraigned for accident that seriously injured two motorcyclists

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

A South Haven area man faces criminal charges after hitting and seriously injuring two motorcyclists earlier this week.

Patrick Leo Farrell, 28, has been arraigned in Seventh District Court for two felony counts of operating a vehicle while impaired causing serious injury and operating while impaired/intoxicated 2^nd offense, according to a court clerk.

His next hearing is scheduled Oct. 2.

The accident involving Farrell occurred shortly after 7 p.m., Tuesday, at the intersection of County Road 388 and County Road 687 in Geneva Township, where his vehicle collided with a motorcycle driven by Ron Grofvert of Lawrence. Grofvert's wife Laurel was also on the bike. The Grofverts were seriously injured and taken to the hospital.

“The investigation shows he (Farrell) pulled out in front of the motorcycle,” said Lt. Ryan Schoonveld, assistant commander of the Paw Paw Michigan State Police post.

Sarah Powell, a niece of the Grofverts, started a GoFundMe site for them.

On the online site she posted that her aunt's leg had been broken in multiple places and that her uncle's lower left leg has to be amputated.

As of Friday, $4,000 of the $10,000 goal had been raised.



9.23.19

Farewell

South Haven school board votes to leave the Wolverine Conference

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

It looks like South Haven Public Schools will be exiting the Wolverine Conference to join the Berrien-Cass-St. Joseph (BCS) League.

Board of Education members, Wednesday, voted in favor of leaving the conference that the district has been a part of since 1952. The conference's Board of Governors is expected to give its formal approval in October allowing South Haven to join the BCS.

South Haven's athletic teams could be playing in the BCS as soon as the start of the 2020 school year, according to Athletic Director Adam Verseput.

“There is the possibility of us competing in the BCS for the 2020-2021 season,” he said.

The BCS consists of 15 schools in Southwest Michigan. The league is divided into two divisions. The Red Division consists of Division 2 and 3 schools, while the White Division consists of smaller Division 3 and 4 schools.

Ones in the Red Division similar in size to South Haven include Berrien Springs, Buchanan, Parchment and Comstock – teams that South Haven has often played in previous non-league contests. The other schools are Bridgman, New Buffalo, Niles Brandywine, Lake Michigan Catholic, River Valley, Benton Harbor Countryside Academy, Covert, Lawrence, Marcellus Howardsville Christian, Michigan Lutheran and Watervliet Grace Christian.

South Haven considered switching to a different conference for two main reasons: One, it takes players and fans an hour or more of driving time to compete in Wolverine Conference away games; and two, South Haven has one of the smallest enrollments in the league, making it difficult to compete in a number of sports.

“Our level of competition isn't as compatible,” Verseput said. “In some sports we've very competitive, but in others we struggle. Over the last five years, we've finished seventh overall in the conference. That's not great but it's not good. Moving into a conference with schools of similar size might help.”

In other board action:

• Members voted to present the district's monthly Community Pride Award to Albemarle Corp. for the thousands of dollars in grants that its local and corporate foundations have given to South Haven Public Schools over the years. Grants have enabled the school district to purchase a vinyl printer for Baseline Middle School's Integrated Learning Center, and add resources to the STEM labs at Maple Grove and Lincoln Schools, the iCreate Lab at North Shore Elementary School and the pre-engineering class Projects Lead the Way at Baseline and South Haven High School. Albemarle has also been a major contributor to the high school robotics team, Ramageddon.

• The board voted to hire three new staff members: Kaleigh Johnson, Maple Grove Elementary School teacher; Allan Anastacio, South Haven High School math teacher; and Anita Harris, a special education teacher at Maple Grove Elementary School.

9.20.19

EEE outbreak prompts change in South Haven's homecoming football game schedule

South Haven High School's Homecoming activities will take place sooner today due to the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) outbreak that has claimed the lives of three Michigan residents, two of whom are from Southwestern Michigan.

The parade through downtown streets has been pushed up to 4:30 p.m. while the varsity football game kicks off at 5:15 p.m. rather than 7 p.m. at Racliffe Field. The school district has also sprayed the football stadium with mosquito repellant.

“We contract with a company that handles such things and to err on the side of caution, the complex was treated for mosquitos,” South Haven Superintendent Kevin Schooley said. More building grounds throughout the districts will be sprayed next week, according to Kevin Dee, director of operations.

South Haven school officials, along with several other school districts in Southwest Michigan changed their football schedules based on the recommendation from the Michigan Department of Human Health Services that outdoor activities not occur near dusk – a time when mosquitoes typically are outside and people are at risk of being bitten. Because the EEE virus is spread by mosquitoes, state health department officials are strongly suggesting outdoor sporting events take place earlier in the evening.

9.16.19

String of vehicle break-ins reported in Bloomingdale

Police are warning people to lock their vehicles after a string of break-ins and larcenies were reported this past weekend in Bloomingdale.

Van Buren County Sheriff's deputies responded to a total of eight incidents of items being stolen from vehicles that were left unlocked. The break-ins occurred during the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 13 on the north end of the village.

Deputies say many items of value were taken from the parked vehicles. Suspects have not yet been identified.

9.9.19

Fire destroys home in Arlington Twp.

A fire destroyed a home in Arlington Township over the weekend. Bangor Community Fire Department were dispatched to a smoke investigation at 7:40 p.m., Friday, and arrived to see the residence on Country Road 376 near 56^th Street fully engulfed in flames. The residents were not at home, according to fire officials. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Mutual aid was received from fire department in Lawrence, Hartford, Paw Paw, Columbia, Keeler, Watervliet and South Haven. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

9.5.19

Gun taken from student at Baseline Middle School

By HP STAFF

South Haven police are investigating a gun-related incident that occurred at Baseline Middle School on Wednesday.

Two administrators at Baseline Middle School found a student with a gun on Wednesday, according to a note school officials issued to parents that afternoon.

According to a note posted online, the school's assistant principal was first notified that a student was in possession of a gun.

“The principal and assistant principal promptly responded by isolating the student and securing the weapon,” the post said.

Police were then called.

South Haven police on Wednesday did not issue any information about the scare, saying that a statement will be released sometime today regarding the incident.

School officials added: “While an incident of this nature is one we hope to never be faced with, we are thankful that our students did the right thing by reporting the information to a trusted adult.”



9.3.19

Back to school

Students throughout the South Haven area started a new school year this morning, and for some it was a little rainy. In the photo above, Gabe (left) and Hunter Watkins and their mom Amanda, get ready for the boys' first day of classes at Lincoln Elementary School. Gabe is starting kindergarten, while Hunter is entering second grade. (Photo by Becky Kark)

8.26.19

One of the semi trucks that collided Saturday morning on Interstate 94 in Lawrence Township is shown. Drivers of the two trucks suffered minor injuries.

Semis collide on Interstate 94

LAWRENCE — Two truckers suffered minor injuries after their vehicle collided head on on Interstate 94 this weekend.

The incident occurred at 6:15 a.m., Saturday, on the westbound lane of the highway in Lawrence Township, according to a news release from Michigan State Police.

Troopers determined that a semi, headed eastbound, crossed the median, striking both the guardrail and cable barrier before entering the west bound lanes and colliding with a semi headed westbound.

No other vehicles were involved. Both truck drivers were treated at the scene for their injuries.

The westbound lanes of I-94 remained closed from the time of the crash until 11 a.m. so that rescue crews and tow trucks could remove the semis and clean up the debris. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Other agencies that assisted troopers included the Van Buren County Sheriff Department, Lawrence Township Fire Department. Paw Paw Fire Department and MDOT.

Four rescued from Lake Michigan

Four members of a Troy, Mich. family were rescued Wednesday morning after their rented personal watercraft vessels overturned in Lake Michigan off South Haven’s South Beach, according to a South Haven Area Emergency Services news release. Rescuers responded to a report of people in distress at 11:30 a.m. Responders found four people – two adults and two children – in the water clinging to overturned vessels. A nearby sailboat was able to offer aid to a man and child. Meanwhile, emergency responders took to the water on paddleboards and were able to assist a woman and child, then return several hundred yards to shore. One of the children was taken to Bronson-South Haven Hospital for observation, while the others were not injured. The names of those involved were not included in the release. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

8.19.19

UPDATE: The Van Buren County Sheriff's Department has reported that Charles Hazard has been found and is safe.

84-year-old Grand Junction man reported missing

Police are seeking the public's help in locating an elderly man from Grand Junction who went missing over the weekend. Charles Hazard, 84, was last seen around the Hastings area in Barry County on Saturday

According to a news release from the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department, Hazard has dementia and was lost in Hastings, trying to find his way home to Grand Junction. He is approximately 6 feet tall, 190 pounds, with balding grey hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a red shirt, black ball cap and glasses. He drives a 2011 red Ford Fusion with American flags on both front windows. The license plate number is ECQ4591. He often visits the South Haven area.

Anyone with information as to Hazard's whereabouts is urged to contact Van Buren County Central Dispatch at 269-657-3101.

8.12.19

Photo courtesy of South Haven Emergency Services.
A motorist suffered serious injuries after his car slammed into the side of Maple Grove Grill and Bar at 10:15 p.m. Sunday night. South Haven Area Emergency Services had to extricate the motorist from his vehicle. The restaurant had just closed for the evening. Owner Todd Capps and employees were inside cleaning up when the accident happened, but were not injured.

Man seriously injured after his car smashes into the side of popular South Haven area restaurant

By BECKY KARK
Editor and general manager

Ever since Michigan Department of Transportation constructed a round-about on M-43 Highway, Maple Grove Grill and Bar owner Todd Capps dreaded the day a vehicle would careen over the round-about's traffic island and smack into his family-run restaurant.
That day came Sunday, Aug. 11, when a car smashed into the side of the eatery, located at the intersection of M-43 Highway and 72nd Street.
The restaurant had just closed shortly before the accident occurred at 10:15 p.m.
“We normally close at 9:30 p.m.,” Capps said. “But we had a full house. We had eaters here until 10 p.m.”
Shortly after closing for the evening, Capps and his staff began the nightly task of cleaning up the bar area and restaurant.
“I was in the kitchen cleaning dishes when it happened,” Capps said. He didn't see the accident but he definitely heard it.
“He crashed through the restaurant right behind the wall of my kitchen,” Capps said.
The wall was lined with plates and pans, which rained down on Capps.
“Two pans hit me in the head. Plates fell and smashed on the floor,” he said.
Neither Capps nor his employees suffered injuries, but the man whose car slammed into the side of the building did. He had to be extricated from his vehicle, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services and was taken to Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.
The man, whose name is not being released by South Haven Police yet, was traveling west on M-43 when his vehicle came up on the round-about.
After striking the cement traffic island in the middle of the round-about, the man's vehicle and destroyed a yield sign, causing the car to go airborne where it then crashed into the restaurant wall.
“There were no tracks on the grass,” said Capps.
Monday morning, Capps began assessing the damage.
“The vehicle broke the bottom of the chimney and buckled the wall,” he said. “The chimney's going to have to come down.”
The bright blue building, considered a landmark along M-43 between Bangor and South Haven, was built in the 1930s, according to Capps. His family opened the restaurant in 1980 and has operated it ever since.
Its burgers, smoked chicken, soups and sandwiches are a hit with locals and visitors alike, as are the "The Grove's" fall and winter Euchre tournaments.
But just when the restaurant will re-open hasn't been determined yet.
“I really can't say at this point,” said Capps, who estimated the damage at “thousands of dollars.”
Monday he was consulting with his insurance company to get estimates of the damage.
Despite the heartbreak of having to temporarily close the restaurant, Capps remains upbeat.
“Of all the places the car hit it was the best place it could have,” said Capps, explaining that the room is used primarily as a storage area for cleaning supplies, and that luckily, no one was in the room when the accident occurred.
“It is what it is,” Capps said. “I'm glad the driver's alive. I'm glad that none of us were injured.”
This isn't the first time a car has hit the restaurant, which is located close to the roadway and now even closer since the roundabout was built.
In 1986, years before the roundabout was constructed, a driver smashed into the front portion of the restaurant. Several years after the roundabout was put in place, a car ruined one of Maple Grove's outdoor smokers.

8.9.19

Safety officials in towns up and down the Lake Michigan shoreline have become increasingly concerned about beachgoers swimming in Lake Michigan when red flag warnings have been issued.  In the photo, above, people are shown in Lake Michigan near South Beach on July 19, ignoring the red flag warnings. This photo was taken shortly before two swimmers had to be rescued after becoming exhausted fighting the waves. Due in part to high water levels, drownings this year in Lake Michigan have more than doubled over last year, according to Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project.

SH council hears pitch to bring back lifeguards

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Should South Haven add lifeguards once again to patrol its city beaches? Some people think so, and hope city leaders will consider doing so.

“Beach safety is a key concern of mine,” said Kameron Daugherty. In the wake of the July 13^th drowning of a 13-year-old boy visiting South Haven from Ann Arbor, Daugherty started an online petition asking people whether lifeguards should return to South Haven beaches.

The response was an overwhelming yes.

“I expected a few hundred (yes votes),” Daugherty said. “At this point the petition has reached 16,000.” Responders hail from not only Southwest Michigan but throughout the United States and internationally.

Daugherty has personally seen lifeguards at work when she was a teenager whose family resided near North Beach in South Haven.

“Because most of my friends were lifeguards I was able to witness the effectiveness of lifeguards in not only rescuing swimmers but preventing drownings,” Daugherty said.

Shawn Russell a retired U.S. Air Force pilot, was a lifeguard at South Haven beaches as a teenager during the late 1980s.

“I had many rescues,” he said. “The bottom line, I know guards made a huge difference.”

Life guards had a variety of tasks to perform at South and North beaches in South Haven, according to Russell.

They monitored the water, monitored and changed the beach warning flags, positioned water buoys, searched for missing persons, saved people from drowning, kept people from jumping off the pier, watched for disorderly behavior and kept in contact with police and fire units.

“We were in constant direct contact with the sheriff's marine patrol. We were the eyes and ears of the police department on the beaches,” he said.

Both Daugherty and Russell attended South Haven City Council meeting, Monday, to present a program on the need for lifeguards and requested that council members form a committee to determine the feasibility of adding guards to the beaches.

“We believe enough time has lapsed since the last review and now that new conclusions could be formed,” Daugherty said.

South Haven, along with many lakeshore communities up and down the Lake Michigan shoreline disbanded life guard programs in the early 2000s. Several years ago, following several drownings, the city instituted a flag weather warning system at North and South beaches and installed signs warning people of the dangers of rip currents in Lake Michigan. South Haven Area Emergency Services and South Haven Police have also invested money to purchase life-saving equipment and provide training to first responders to improve their effectiveness in water rescues on Lake Michigan and in the Black River harbor.

“We take safety seriously at all levels,” Mayor Scott Smith said. “We've had the hottest July on record and the most drownings ever in Lake Michigan,” he said. “We have higher lake water levels this year. There has been a hundred water rescues this summer, eight in Ludington alone. We closed our beach (following two water rescues on July 19) and still people were getting in the water. It's a problem.”

Smith stopped short of telling Daugherty and Russell that the council will form a committee immediately, but said, “Dialogue is relevant. I think the council is interested in hearing more about what the community says.”



7.30.19

Group wants SH voters to decide whether to allow recreational marijuana businesses

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

A group of citizens that vowed earlier this year to let South Haven voters – not city hall - decide whether to ban recreational marijuana establishments is making good on its word.

The Concerned Citizens of South Haven gathered enough signatures on a petition that asks City Council to adopt an ordinance prohibiting all recreational marijuana businesses within city limits.

that if approved would prevent recreational pot businesses from operating in the city limits. Individuals who violate the ordinance would be subject to a civil fine ranging from $100-$500.

The group needed to gather at least 105 signatures to put the petition in front of council members for their consideration, according to City Clerk Travis Sullivan.

“The petition collected 142 signatures,” Sullivan said. Some of the signatures though were from residents living outside the city limits, while others needed further examination to determine their validity. Even so, the group will now be able to legally proceed with the petition.

“Excluding the questionable signatures, the group still had 128 valid signatures, thus moving the proposed ordinance to city council,” Sullivan said.

The city council's next scheduled meeting is Monday, Aug. 5.

“Because the petitioners have collected the required number of signatures, the city council must now make a decision on the proposed ordinance,” Sullivan said. “The council has the option to adopt the full ordinance, as written, or reject the ordinance, and adopt a resolution sending the question to the November ballot for the city's voters to decide.”

City officials voted in February to temporarily opt out of the state's new recreational marijuana law that allows cannabis businesses to locate in town. They did so to spend more time determining whether to let establishments open for business and which types to allow.

Michigan voters made the recreational marijuana act a reality when they overwhelmingly passed a ballot issue in 2018 legalizing pot. In South Haven, 52 percent of the city's residents who voted in the election, OK'd the ballot issue.

Despite that fact, the Concerned Citizens of South Haven, a small but vocal group of residents, has attended city council and planning commission meetings opposing passage of an ordinance to allow and regulate cannabis businesses in the city.

Rachel Sankofski is one of the Concerned Citizens' members. She said the group intended to issue a formal statement soon.

The Planning Commission has been working since February to develop an ordinance to regulate both medical and recreational marijuana establishments in the city and to determine where they should be located. The proposed ordinance though has not yet been approved by the city council.

Although the recreational marijuana law allows individuals to consume cannabis privately, each municipality has to make the decision whether to allow or ban cannabis businesses. If a municipality decides to allow the establishments, citizens also have the right, under the law, to force a ballot issue to let their local voters decide whether to let the businesses locate in their town.

7.24.19

Health officials warn of food illness in SW Michigan

Cases of cyclosporiasis confirmed; officials search for source

By TRIBUNE STAFF

LANSING — State and local health officials are investigating reports of multiple cases of cyclosporiasis in Southwest Michigan.

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. People can become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.

Outbreaks in the United States have been linked to contaminated fresh produce.

There have been eight lab-confirmed cyclosporiasis cases since late June, according to a news release from the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department. At least 14 other individuals are also being investigated as possible cases associated with this cluster. People affected have been reporting dining at restaurants in Southwest Michigan since mid-June 2019.

Illness typically results in watery diarrhea, and can include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and fatigue. Symptoms generally appear 1-2 weeks after ingestion of the contaminated product. If untreated, symptoms often last for weeks and can return one or more times. Infection is not transmitted directly from person to person and usually is not life-threatening.

“Cyclospora contamination often occurs prior to the food arriving at food distribution centers and restaurants,” said Tim Slawinski, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Food and Dairy Division director. “This type of contamination is not easily removed by standard produce rinsing.”

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and Van Buren/Cass District Health Department are working together to investigate the illnesses.

Interviews with all people with confirmed symptoms are ongoing to determine if there are commonalities in where they dined and what food they may have consumed.

Preliminary information suggests an exposure to food products prepared at or distributed by Taste restaurant in South Haven, according to the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department.

“There is no indication that the illnesses are related to poor food handling or preparation at this establishment,” said Richard Conway, food service supervisor for the health department. Conway explained that cyclosporiasis has been discovered in a pre-washed food product the restaurant was using. “It's not required to wash it. It's ready to eat,” he said. If the product is mixed with spices or greens that are not on heated items that are served then the parasite will not die.

State and local investigators are reviewing food histories and invoices from suppliers to the restaurant to identify specific food products that may have caused the illnesses and determine the extent to which those products may have been distributed in Michigan.

Conway stressed that Taste has been fully cooperative with the health department in its investigation.

“He (the restaurant owner) did do everything right. Would I eat there? Most definitely.”

The problem with cyclosporiasis isn't just limited to establishments in Southwest Michigan.

“In Michigan the CDC has identified 30 different clusters of the same outbreak,” Conway said. “There have been 321 confirmed cases and 300 more that are being investigated. So it's not isolated to South Haven. It's actually a national issue.”

"We are working diligently with the restaurant, MDARD, and our local health department colleagues to investigate these cases," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health at MDHHS. "We are asking that anyone who has symptoms like watery diarrhea and stomach cramps contact their doctor because this illness can be effectively treated with antibiotics."

Medical care providers should promptly report cases so MDHHS or local health departments can investigate potential sources of infections. More information about cyclosporiasis is available through the CDC at: https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/index.html.

7.12.19

Kayakers rescued

from Lake Michigan

First responders from South Haven Area Emergency Services provide first aid to two women (shown right) after their kayak capsized in Lake Michigan's waves Thursday afternoon. The women, ages 18 & 19 from out-of-state, had entered the lake near South Haven's South Beach. A shoreline homeowner witnessed them in distress about 200 yards off-short and called 911 at 3:45 p.m. The kayakers were found about half-a-mile south where waves were pushing them against rocks as they were trying to get their kayak out of the water. One of the women suffered abrasions, but did not require medical attention. Neither person was wearing a life jacket. Yellow warning flags were flying at the South beach with waves building to three-four feet. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

7.11.19

A tribute to the past

The historical marker the Michigan Historical Society presented to South Haven in honor of its 150th anniversary is now on display at South Haven city hall, 539 Phoenix St. The Society presented the marker to South Haven Mayor Scott Smith during the 150th anniversary picnic and celebration in May at Stanley Johnston Park. (Photo by Tom Renner)

7.8.19

Accident on Baseline Road claims man's life

A 53-year-old Decatur area man died Sunday night after his vehicle went out of control on Baseline Road, struck a bridge and flipped over into a wooded area. The accident occurred near 59^th Street, near the border between Casco and Lee townships. Passersby noticed the overturned vehicle at 9:40 p.m. and called 911. When first responders arrived they found the lone occupant who was pronounced dead at the scene by the medical examiner, according to a report from South Haven Area Emergency Services. The vehicle appeared to have been going westbound on Baseline when it went out of control, struck the side of a bridge and became airborne. The vehicle landed upside down several hundred feet from the bridge. SHAES staff used its Jaws of Life to extricate the victim, whose name has not been released yet. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

7.2.19

Light up the Lake fireworks display back on in South Haven

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

SOUTH HAVEN — It looks like fireworks will light up the sky Wednesday over this lakeshore community after all.

City officials cautioned last week the popular Light up the Lake show could face cancellation due to high water levels on Lake Michigan washing over the North Pier where the fireworks are ignited.

But late Monday afternoon, officials gave the green light for the show to proceed.

“We reviewed the weather forecast,” City Manager Brian Dissette said. “Our biggest concern was the potential for high winds, specifically a northwest wind pushing water over the pier. But, based on the weather forecast, it appears conditions will be favorable. There is a chance for rain and thunderstorms during the day and then in the evening, clear weather.”

The $34,000 show will begin at approximately 10:30 p.m., and last 20 minutes. Because the fireworks are shot over the lake, the best viewing areas are North and South Beach, public access beaches along North Shore Drive and Kids Corner playground on Monroe Boulevard on the city's south side.

For folks who don't want to deal with the hassle of finding a parking space, the city has a solution - WWMT's CW7 channel plans to broadcast the display, live.

Because many boaters enjoy viewing the show either in the harbor or on Lake Michigan, rules will be put into place concerning the Dyckman Avenue drawbridge. City officials say the bridge will operate on its regular schedule until 11:30 p.m., tonight, when it will then close to vehicles and pedestrian traffic to allow boat traffic on the Black River to pass. The bridge will remain raised in the upright position until the last boat goes through.

Over the years, Light up the Lake fireworks display has become one of the most popular events of its kind in Southwest Michigan, drawing an estimated 40,000-60,000 people. Due to the traffic congestion that ensues after the parade, South Haven Police will be directing traffic at various intersections. Motorists are urged to follow their directions.

Police also are reminding people that alcoholic beverages and animals are prohibited on public beaches and city-owned property.

Fourth of July holiday activities continue in South Haven Thursday with the 170^th annual Fourth of July parade. This year's parade celebrates the city's 150^th anniversary and will feature 75 entries. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. at South Haven High School parking lot. It will proceed on Elkenburg Street, turn north on Kalamazoo Street toward downtown and then turn east on Phoenix Street, south on Broadway Avenue, west on Michigan Avenue and finally, south on Center Street back to the high school.

Vehicle owners are urged not to park along the parade route from 9 a.m.-noon, Thursday. Vehicles that are parked on the route during that time will be towed.

7.1.19

Soggy spring and summer takes its toll on corn crops

By KIM INGALLS

For the Tribune

“Rain, rain go away” is what a lot of area farmers are wishing as this spring’s wet weather has forced them to make a choice - risk a late crop or file an insurance claim.

“We are on track for June to be the fourth ‘wetter-than-normal’ month in a row this spring,” wrote MSU Extension Field Crop Educator Bruce MacKellar in a recent crop report.

Hundreds of saturated acres may go unplanted resulting in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer sending a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue requesting a USDA Secretarial Disaster Designation for Michigan. The letter asked for added flexibility under the Federal Crop Insurance Program and the recent disaster legislation passed by Congress.

“Michigan farmers are in a state of crisis right now because of extraordinary weather conditions, from historic rainfall, extreme cold, excessive snow, flash flooding, and tornadoes,” said Whitmer. “Michigan has a rich history in agriculture, and on behalf of our farmers, our families, and our economy, we need to take action now. I’m ready and eager to partner with the federal government to make sure Michigan farmers have the support they need during this difficult time.” 

Whitmer's plea as well as ones from state and federal legislators led to the USDA decision earlier this month to allow farmer to use their unplanted land to plant cover crops and use them for livestock grazing, hay or silage starting Sept. 1 and still maintain eligibility for crop insurance. Normally, they are not allowed to do so until after Nov. 1.

Michigan is currently in the midst of the third wettest year in state history, with 37.9 inches of rain between May 1, 2018 and April 30, 2019, according to Whitmer’s office. The weather has delayed and prevented farmers from planting their crops as usual, with 64 out of Michigan’s 83 counties requesting disaster designations from the USDA.

“As of June 9. Michigan has about 63 percent of corn planted,” MacKellar reported. “It’s behind every other state except Pennsylvania and not far ahead of Indiana.”

MacKellar went on to say about half of those acres planted in corn have sprouted and most of those crops looks fair to overall good.

Soybean planting, he said, is expected to be delayed even more due to heavier soils. Some fields may have poor results because they are being planted in wet conditions.

While some farmers may take a chance on a late-planted crop that could yield a fraction of a typical harvest, many will turn to crop insurance that pays out when farmers are unable to plant by a preset deadline.

Farmers also are weighing the promise of another multibillion-dollar trade USDA  rescue package  and potential funding from federal disaster recovery legislation. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation estimates that 10 million acres of unplanted corn would subtract more than 2 billion bushels of corn production in the U.S., meaning the drenched spring’s impact on grain prices and farmers’ income could linger.

The wet weather and delayed planting is also pushing up crop prices. After hitting their lowest point in a year in mid-May, corn prices climbed 24 percent through the rest of the month. Soybean prices gained 11percent in the same time period. That isn’t expected to trickle down to higher food prices for consumers right away because huge stores of crops have piled up recently due to bumper harvests and trade disputes in recent years.

Even if farmers get a late crop in the ground, corn may not fully mature by the time the fall’s first frost hits, producing yields one-fifth or more below the norm, according to agricultural economists.

Perdue said recently that the agency is evaluating whether a planned $16 billion bailout package for farmers facing lower crop prices because of tariffs also could be used to provide relief to weather-stricken farmers.

6.28.19

Man in critical condition

after falling from boat

SOUTH HAVEN — An Indiana man was listed in critical condition earlier today after falling from a boat into the Black River, Thursday.

South Haven Police and South Haven Area Emergency Services responded to the incident after receiving a medical call about a man who had possibly suffered a heart attack after being pulled out of the Black River.

The man, along with several other people, were on a boat docked at the Southside Municipal Marina when he fell into the water, according to witnesses. People who were close by pulled him out and called 911.

Police officers were on the scene within three minutes and began administering CPR to the 61-year-old man and continued to assist in rescue efforts when SHAES responders arrived, according to a police news release.

The man was taken to Bronson South Haven Hospital and then to a Kalamazoo area hospital where he was still listed in critical condition as of Friday afternoon.

South Haven Police did not release any further information about the incident but said they are continuing to investigate to determine factors that contributed to the accident and would provide an update later.

South Beach swimming advisory lifted

South Beach is once again open to swimmers after the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department lifted an advisory that E. coli bacteria levels were elevated and that people should stay away from the water.

The health department issued the advisory Tuesday. It then took water samples again Thursday and said the bacteria count no longer exceeded the state's water quality standards.

The health department's environmental health division conducts water samples at baching beaches on a weekly basis.



6.24.19

Fewer hours, days for lighting off fireworks

South Haven aligns with Michigan's fireworks laws

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

With the 4th of July holiday coming up in less than two weeks, city officials here are taking steps to tighten regulations for the use of fireworks.

The council, Monday, unanimously approved updating the city's fireworks ordinance to comply with the state's recently updated Fireworks Safety Act.

“We're trying to help give police and residents greater teeth to deal with complaints about fireworks being blown up all through the night,” City Manager Brian Dissette said.

Since 2011, the State of Michigan has allowed consumer fireworks to be shot off by the general public on or around national holidays, such as the 4th of July and New Year's Eve. But in December of 2018, the state legislature amended the Fireworks Safety Act by limiting the dates and times which fireworks can be shot off and increasing the fines for people who violate the act.

“For the last several years, the (state) Act has provided that a municipal ordinance must allow consumer fireworks until 1 a.m. on the day of, the day before, and the day after each national holiday,” Dissette said. “The city’s firework ordinance generally prohibits the use of consumer fireworks in the city except during these specified times.”

However, the updated state fireworks law places limits on the times consumer fireworks can be ignited and the number of national holidays where pyrotechnics are allowed to be used. In addition, people who are caught violating the fireworks act will be fined $1,000 for their first offense. Right now the city only charges $115 for an initial infraction.

“The Legislature appears to have concluded that the prior version of the Act was both too permissive and too restrictive in some respects,” Dissette said.

Key provisions of the state's amended fireworks safety act include the following:

• Municipalities no longer have to allow consumer fireworks on and around national holidays that are not traditionally celebrated with fireworks, such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, President's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. holiday and Columbus Day.

• Municipalities may prohibit fireworks after 11:45 p.m. on and around Memorial Day, July 4th holiday and Labor Day, and after 1 a.m. on New Year's Day.

• Fireworks displays will mostly be limited to weekends with the exception of the 4th of July holiday.

• Fines for violations of municipal fireworks ordinances are now set at $1,000 per violation.

Key provisions to South Haven's amended fireworks ordinance follow:

• Fireworks will be limited to the national holidays of New Year's Eve, Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day.

• Specific dates and times for the holidays follow: New Year's Eve — 11 a.m., Dec. 31-1 a.m., Jan. 1; Memorial Day — 11 a.m.-11:45 p.m. on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding the holiday; 4th of July holiday — 11 a.m.-11:45 p.m., June 29-July 4 and 11 a.m.-11:45 p.m. July 5 if that date is a Friday or Saturday) Labor Day — 11 a.m.-11:45 on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding the holiday.

• Fines for violators will increase from $115 to $1,000.

“I think this is a step in the right direction,” South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson said, regarding the updated fireworks ordinance adopted Monday by the city council.

Enforcement of fireworks rules is tricky at best, she went on to say.

“We have to catch a person literally with fireworks or standing there lighting them off. Which we have done,” Thompson said. However, timing has a lot to do with it.

Often officers are told fireworks have been let off in the general vicinity of a person's home but often the person doesn't know exactly who is lighting off the pyrotechnics.

The steeper fine that could be handed down to violators just may be the ticket for reducing the instances of fireworks being shot off late at night when people are trying to sleep, according to Dissette.

“I'm still not in love with this rule that commercial fireworks are permitted,” he said. “but we're trying to give the very best tools for police. This won't be the silver bullet. We'll still get complaints, but it's step in the right direction.”

6.17.19

Under normal conditions, owners of smaller boats, such as the one shown above, can guide their vessel underneath the Dyckman Avenue Drawbridge without waiting for it to open. However, record-high water levels on Lake Michigan and the Black River are forcing low-profile boats to wait for the drawbridge to open before continuing downriver toward Lake Michigan. (Photo by Becky Kark)

High-water headaches

South Haven expects more bridge openings; marinas worried about stray voltage

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

A little less than a month after this harbor town experienced an apparent seiche, higher-than-normal water levels on Lake Michigan and the Black River are bringing more problems for not only boaters but maritime-related services offered by the city.

“High water levels, that's the new normal,” City Manager Brian Dissette remarked.

City officials had hoped to begin an electrical upgrade project at Southside Municipal Marina this spring, but were forced to postpone it due to the dangers workers would face in installing the underwater upgrades.

“The water is too high on the docks around the marina,” Dissette said. “We've had the power off for three weeks. Some boaters are still using the marina. Some have their own batteries or generators for power. We're giving boaters discounts if they want to use the marina. Will this hurt business? Absolutely.”

Up-river from the Southside Marina awaits another high-water related issue for the city and the many boaters that travel along the Black River and South Haven harbor.

The Dyckman Drawbridge opens every half hour during the peak tourism season to let boats with masts travel from one side of the river to the other.

But with the high water level creeping up the walls of the bridge, smaller boats will soon be waiting in line for the bridge to open – possibly creating more delays for motorists waiting for the bridge to lower.

“If you've got an antenna or a top on your boat you might not be able to go under the bridge,” Dissette said.

Bridge tender Pete Bergen, who was in charge of operating the bridge, Tuesday, agreed.

“Lower-profile boats that made it under the bridge last year, aren't going to make it this year,” he said.

Right now boaters have a clearance of about 7 feet due to the high water levels, according to the City's Streets Department Director Ron Dotson.

“We started in April with a 9-foot clearance,” he said. “Now we're at 7.25 feet.

With close to 1,100 boat slips on the Black River, weekend traffic on the waterway and on the roadway above the river can get bottled up regularly during the summer months. The high water level is expected to cause even more congestion, particularly during the city's annual 4th of July holiday fireworks display.

Dissette said he doesn't know how long delays might be for motorists when the bridge goes up at its intervals each half-hour, but he urged motorists to have patience.

Boaters on the Black River have to know what time the bridge opens and adjust their schedule accordingly. But boaters can't stop their craft on a dime.

“Boats don't have brakes,” Dissette said. “That's why they have the right-of-way” (when it comes to bridge traffic).

The third high-water related issue facing both the municipal marinas and private ones is the increased threat of electric shock drowning or ESD.

ESD can occur from stray electrical current primarily near marinas and docks. The stray currents originate from the wiring of the dock or marina, or from boats that are connected to the dock's power supply, according to the ESD Prevention Association, which warns people not to jump or swim in water near docks and marinas.

Because of the high water level, electrical service lines leading from boats to a dock's electrical service outlets can very easily end up being submerged.

“Some marinas' electric lines are run under the docks and the water levels are now approaching those connections,” explained Steve Schlack, owner of 1st Choice Marine in South Haven.

Schlack said he has urged several home associations that have private docks to turn off their electricity until water levels go down.

“In the late '80s the water level was slightly higher and people tell me stories of down by the River Bend Boat Club there was a few inches of water over their yard and fish where seen passing through the yard. We are within an inch or two of that level now when we have an up cycle.”

Staying out of the river is the smartest thing people can do, plus, there's a city ordinance against people swimming in the river.

“If you go in a boat or go near the river, it's so important to stay out of the water,” Dissette said. “The potential of stray voltage in the water is there. It's like being tased.”

Worse, people can drown from ESD, which can cause skeletal muscular paralysis, preventing the victim from be able to help themselves out of the water.

With the Harborfest dragon boat races scheduled for Saturday, Dissette said they will still continue because the Southshore Marina, where the race are staged, won't be running any electricity.

The city owns three marinas on the Black River and is taking steps to develop a plan to address ESD-related issues at their marinas. City officials are also encouraging private marina operators to do so as well.

6.10.19

Wisconsin-based actor Randy Otto plans to perform "Winston Churchill: Man of the Century" Saturday June 22 in South Haven.

To commemorate D-Day,

SH theater series features Churchill performance

With America's attention focused this month on the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the South Haven Theater Series will present a show about a man who played a pivotal role in planning the invasion that helped end World War II – British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

“Winston Churchill: Man of the Century” is scheduled to be performed at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 22 at First United Methodist Church, 429 Michigan Ave.

The show will be played by Randy Otto, an alumnus of the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre who has studied Churchill's life for four decades, and has developed a one-man show focusing on pivotal roles Churchill played during the war.

His performances apparently capture the persona of Churchill.

Churchill's great-grandson Jonathan Sandys has been quoted as saying, ““I have heard many people attempt to play the role of my great-grandfather, but without hesitation, Randy Otto takes the role to a whole new level. Randy does not attempt to be Winston Churchill, Randy is Winston Churchill.”

John Ross Truman, grand-nephew of President Harry S. Truman, also was impressed with Otto's impersonating Churchill.

“An evening spent with Randy Otto is as close as you will come to an evening with the colossus of the age: Winston Churchill.”

Otto first toyed with the idea of portraying Churchill in 1972 when he attended the University of Wisconsin.

“My British history professor happened upon me attempting to impress my classmates by impersonating Winston Churchill just outside of his lecture hall,” Otto recalled. “Dr. Schoenfeld sternly ushered me into his office. Expecting the worst, you can imagine my surprise when the professor's scowl turned into a radian smile: 'That wasn't bad, Mr. Otto.'”

Otto, who resides in Lake Mills, Wis., performs his one-man show mainly in Wisconsin, but has also traveled to other Midwestern States to do so, including Michigan.

Admission to “Winston Churchill: Man of the Century,” is $10. Students are admitted free of charge.

Two other shows remain on the Theater Series schedule.

On July 27th, Edgar Allen Poe's tormented life will be featured when actor Lucien Douglas performs “A Shadow Among Strangers: Performing the Life and Works of Edgar Allen Poe.

Douglas has performed both on Broadway and Off-Broadway at New York's Roundabout Theatre, as well as at various regional theaters. Douglas is currently professor of theater and dance at the University of Texas, Austin.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “Driving Miss Daisy,” will conclude this year's Theater Series on Aug. 17.

Written by Alfred Uhry in 1987, the play was later presented as a film version, starring Morgan Freeman and Jessica Tandy. It went on to win the Oscar for Best Picture in 1990.

Master Arts Theater of Grand Rapids will present the production in South Haven.

The performances will take place at First United Methodist Church.



6.3.19

File photo by Don Campbell of the Herald-Palladium.
Traffic heads down M-43 between Le Grange Street and Blue Star Highway in South Haven. MDOT is planning to spend $400,000 in concrete pavement repairs on the M-43 corridor. The City of South Haven will contribute $150,000 toward the total cost.

Road repairs on the way for M-43 corridor

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Motorists can expect a few traffic delays and detours this month on the M-43 Highway corridor in South Haven.

Starting this week, the Michigan Department of Transportation plans to replace patches of concrete along the heavily used road leading into town.

The repairs will take place on the Phillips Street section of the road, between LeGrange Avenue and Bronson South Haven Hospital. MDOT plans to finish the project by the end of the month.

“We anticipate periodic lane closures during the project,” South Haven Department of Public Works Director Bill Hunter said.

MDOT plans to spend $250,000 on repairs, while the City of South Haven will contribute $150,000.

It's somewhat unusual for the city to help pay for major repairs to a road that is owned by the state, but M-43 is a main corridor into the city and has been in bad shape for years, according to City Manager Brian Dissette.

“We're out patching it everyday,” Dissette said in an earlier interview when the city decided to help fund the repairs. “We can continue putting on cold patch or tag team with MDOT and do full concrete replacement.”

MDOT began replacing sections of concrete on the M-43 corridor two years ago. The roadway was the subject of complaints by motorists because of its poor condition and many pot holes.

The Phillips Street portionMDOT will repair this month is the final section that requires road work.



5.29.19

Harbor Walk postponed

Due to incelement weather, the Historic Harbor Walk that was scheduled for Thursday evening, May 30, has been postponed. Sponsored through the Michigan Maritime Museum, the guided maritime tour is part of South Haven's year-long 150th Anniversary Celebration. The walk will be rescheduled later this summer, museum officials say.

5.28.19

Photo by Kate Hosier

The docks at the South Side Municipal Marina in South Haven are nearly covered with water Wednesday morning after an apparent seiche occurred on Lake Michigan causing the already high water level on the Big Lake to rise even more.

Sheesh! It appears a seiche occurred in South Haven

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Earlier this month the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a report that Lake Michigan water levels will continue rising over the next six months, contribution to erosion and potential flooding.

That prediction is becoming a reality in South Haven where South Beach is now a fraction of what it was at the start of spring, and marina owners wonder if their docks will disappear.

The rising water level became very noticeable Monday morning, May 20, when most of South Beach lay under water. Upriver from the channel, water had risen to the top of docks lining the city's harbor, prompting some to wonder if the lake had experienced a seiche.

I believe we did,” said the city's Harbormaster Kate Hosier.

Hosier has been steadily watching the rising water levels on the Black River where the city operates three marinas.

Wednesday at 8 a.m. she took photos of the docks of the South Side marina where water had reached the tops of the docks. “Within a half an hour the water had lowered 4-6 inches,” Hosier said. A similar situation occurred at South Beach where Hosier also snapped photos. Her photos on Wednesday showed a beach under water. However, by Thursday afternoon, some of the beach could be seen again.

Seiches occur in enclosed bodies of water, like the Great Lakes, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Seiches are most often caused when strong winds and rapid changes in atmospheric pressure push water from one end of a lake to the other. When the wind stops, the water rebounds to the other side. The water can oscillate back and forth for hours or even days.

It's not 100 percent sure whether a seiche occurred on Lake Michigan by the city's harbor, but according to Andrew Dixon, service hydrologist for the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, there's a strong possibility one did.

“Since the time period from high water to low water was a few hours, it is hard to pinpoint whether it was the line of thunderstorms that crossed Lake Michigan Wednesday morning that caused this, or whether it was a general wind shift that got the lake sloshing a little bit,” he said. “The Lake is always responding to changes in the weather and wind patterns, and small seiches are not uncommon.”

South Haven has experienced seiches in the past. One that occurred in 1909 was said to have caused an eight-foot wave that crashed into the city's harbor damaging boats and some cottages. Other seiches that have happened over the years on the Great Lakes proved deadly, sweeping people off piers and boats.

Another seiche could happen in South Haven with the weather the area has been experiencing, according to Dixon.

“We've been, and are still in a weather pattern where lots of fast-moving storms are crossing right over Lower Michigan, so it's entirely possible more sloshing waves/seiches like this will be observed over the next week or so” he said.

And that prediction is causing concern for marina operators and boat owners.

“It is problematic for many boaters. Besides the erosion, high water causes, many boaters are needing steps to get into their boats, many have their docks under water, power lines under water, water lines under water, etc.,” Hosier said.

Hosier warned that the higher-than-normal water levels could lead to instances of electric shock drowning, or ESD.

“Boaters and people near docks need to be aware that there is always a danger for electric shock drowning,” Hosier said. “No one should enter the water near docks where there is electric power.”



5.20.19

Sherman's Dairy Bar to remain open

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Contrary to social media posts that Sherman's Dairy Bar will close, company officials say that is not the case.

However, what is true is that South Haven's popular ice cream maker will no longer produce or distribute its wholesale product.

The rumors about the company began circulating last week when businesses that sell Sherman's ice cream received a letter indicating the company would not be producing ice cream at its facility on Phoenix Road.

From there people began speculating Sherman's would close at the end of this season.

Yesterday, a company manager, who did not want to be named, said “Sherman Dairy Bar will be open for the season.”

When asked what would happen next year, the manager said, “Right now we're getting through, season by season.”

Although Sherman's won't be making its own ice cream on site, its dairy bar will remain open to the local residents and visitors who patiently stand in line each summer to enjoy a cool treat. Sherman's has ice cream stored away in deep freezers. If it runs out of some of the varieties they will be produced elsewhere.

A number of issues, including production issues, have led the company to stop making ice cream onsite, according to the manager.

Sherman's has been a fixture in South Haven for many years.

The company can trace its roots back to 1916 when the Sherman family started delivering milk house to house.  The company started making ice cream in the late 1940s and has produced more than 50 flavors over the years, with many of the recipes created by owner Bob Eisenman.

5.15.19

Summer is getting closer

The staff of South Haven Area Emergency Services has started its program of flying safety weather flags at city beaches for the summer months. Lauren Kimbler, an intern for SHAES, is shown standing next to one of the flags. Lake Michigan conditions as determined by the National Weather Service are monitored by SHAES personnel. Beach warning flags are placed at the city's seven public beaches every day between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. The flags are changed throughout the day if lake conditions change. The flags are either green, yellow or red based on weather conditions. A numbering system for the nearby beach flag poles and pier safety boxes has been developed to assist during a time of emergency as a point of reference. The status of the flags is also posted on the internet at

http://www.shaes.org/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=public:weather#beach_conditions

 (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

More roadwork planned

for M-43 starting next week

BANGOR — More roadwork is slated to take place this spring and summer on Michigan 43 Highway in Van Buren County.

The latest project will entail the resurfacing of 13.5 miles of M-43 from Bangor to the Waverly Township line, according to a news release from the Michigan Department of Transportation. The $2.3 million project includes curb and gutters, sidewalk ramps and pavement markings.

Construction is expected to begin Monday, May 20 and be completed by Friday, June 28. While construction is going on one lane of the highway will remain open in each direction.

The newest road project comes on the heels of one currently underway on M-43 near South Haven.

Workers are now improving a .3-mile portion of the highway between County Road 384 at the roundabout and 69^th Street. In addition to repaving the roadway, MDOT also plans to make the 16^th Avenue intersection safer by adding a paved shoulder to allow traffic to pass vehicles turning left onto 16^th Avenue from M-43.



4.29.19

The Michigan Maritime Museum's Friends Good Will takes visitors on daily excursions on Lake Michigan throughout the summer months, helping to contribute to South Haven's water-based tourism. (Photo courtesy of Michigan Maritime Museum)

Port packs a punch

Study: South Haven's port generated

$145.8 million in economic activity in 2017

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven's recreational port attracts many onlookers who enjoy standing atop Water Street to enjoy the view stretching from the city's harbor to the channel and finally to Lake Michigan.

But there's more to the view than just the scenery. There's money.

A new study released last week by the Michigan Port Collaborative indicates that South Haven's water-based tourism and recreation activities generated $145.8 million in economic activity in 2017.

The study examined the economic impact of ports throughout Michigan, including ones in Muskegon, St. Joseph, Detroit, and Traverse City and concluded that the total economic impact of Michigan's ports and harbors was approximately $19.7 billion in 2017 – four times higher than any previous statewide port and harbor economic impact study. It also estimated that 151 thousand full time equivalent jobs were supported by the economic activity associated with Michigan’s ports and harbors during the period evaluated.

The results of the study didn't surprise Felicia Fairchild, president of the Michigan Port Collaborative (MPC) and former executive director of the Saugatuck/Douglas Visitors Bureau.

“While a number of economic impact studies have been conducted over the years, those studies focused on traditional maritime measurements,” she said. “We devised this "full spectrum” study to also include economic drivers for individual ports that add economic values which have not been included in previous studies such as port specific businesses, port specific tourism and port specific recreation. We had a hunch the economic value of our ports and harbors was far greater then previously reported.”

The study was commissioned by the MPC in November 2017 and conducted by Vincent Magnini, executive director of the Institute for Service Research in Virginia Beach, Va.

Bill Boik, a consultant who is retired from the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources, also contributed to the study and participated in the nine-day tour of port and harbor communities who helped finance the project. In addition, John Crotts of Charleston, SC served on the research team.

The MPC commissioned the study in 2017 because of a growing concern that less and less state and federal dollars were being allocated to protect ports and the boating industry.

When lake levels dropped drastically in 2009, concern regarding the economic viability of many Michigan ports began to wane at the state and federal levels, according to the MPC. The dredging and infrastructure challenges caused by low water levels created a trend in thinking, among some state officials, that ports and harbors were an economic liability.

“We represent the ports of Michigan and we wanted to challenge that trend in thinking,” said Don Gilmet, vice president of the MPC. “Michigan Harbors are the front doors to our communities."

For South Haven, the study showed that visitors traveling to and from the local port spent $15 million in lodging, $8.4 million at restaurants, $4 million on gasoline and $2.9 million in groceries in 2017. South Haven's water-based tourism also generated 1,158 full-time equivalent jobs around Michigan, equating to roughly $54.9 million in labor income. In terms of taxes, water-based economic activity in South Haven generated $10.3 million in state and local tax revenues and $12.2 million in federal tax revenues, while the local contribution to the state’s Gross Domestic Product in value-added effects was estimated at $81.7 million for 2017.

4.23.19

Kinexus predicts 16,000 high-skill job openings in

SW Michigan by 2030

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

By 2030 an estimated 16,000 career and technical education-related jobs will need to be filled in Southwest Michigan, according Economic Modeling, a company that tracks data for educational institutions and private companies throughout the United States.

That's great news for Tri-County region's economy. But with good news often comes bad news — there may not be enough trained workers to fill those posts, according to Kinexus, an economic, workforce and community development organization serving Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties.

“We face issues that are troubling to our region,” said Todd Gustafson, president and CEO of Kinexus. “I like to call them 'The Big 3' — an aging population, a declining population, and a declining number of people achieving educational attainment.”

Over the past couple of years, Kinexus has been sifting through and analyzing data that paints a picture of the Southwest Michigan economy. Monday, officials released some of their findings to regional news media.

Some of the information Kinexus has gleaned might give the impression the organization is all “gloom and doom,” joked Jake Gustafson, chief operating officer of Kinexus.

But the organization takes its data seriously and wants to inform as many individuals, educators, companies and governmental officials in the Tri-County region as they can.

“If we continue to sweep 'The Big 3' issues under the rug we will fall behind other regions of the state in attracting jobs,” Todd Gustafson said.

Some of the obstacles facing the region follow:

• While Michigan's population increased 1 percent in the last eight years, the Tri-County population decreased 2 percent, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

• Michigan's median age increased from 37.5 to 38.7 from 2010-2017, while the overall median age of the Tri-County region increased from 41 to 42.6.

• 11.6 percent of the working-age population in the Tri-County region does not have a high school diploma or equivalent compared to 10 percent for the state, according to the 2018 American Community Survey.

Access to public transportation and a lack of affordable housing are two other big issues confronting employers who grapple with retaining and expanding the region's workforce.

“We have some long-term structural issues that are preventing us from growing,” said Al Pscholka, vice president of public relations and government affairs for Kinexus.

Through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Kinexus formed the Business Resource Center three years ago to help companies struggling with employee retention.

“They (the employees) faced a lot of issues – lack of transportation, food insecurity, housing, health care and being able to pay utilities,” Pscholka said.

With the help of “success coaches” who met with employees, Kinexus was able to address 900 barriers workers faced in keeping their employment. The result was that of the 3,500 employees Kinexus worked with 82 percent were able to keep their jobs.

“It's (the Business Resource Center) been tremendously successful, but is shows us lots of issues going on in the market that need to be addressed,” Pscholka said.

Grappling with the issues of public transportation, affordable housing, educational attainment, and the increasing cost of health care, will take the cooperation of government, private sector and education leaders, Kinexus thinks.

“It has to be a coordinated approach customized to each county in the Tri-County area,” Todd Gustafson said.

But not all is gloom and doom for Southwest Michigan.

Local residents may not realize it, but the region is one of the leaders in the state for manufacturing employment.

The region's 18,432 manufacturing jobs account for 17.5 percent of the workforce.

“Our three counties are ahead of Flint, Saginaw and Jackson for the total number of manufacturing jobs,” Todd Gustafson said.

In the future, more employees will be needed to fill those manufacturing positions.

According to projections from Economic Modeling, there will be 1,409 vacancies in the next 10 years that will have to be filled in the manufacturing sector in Southwest Michigan.

But healthcare is anticipated to be the fastest growing industry in the Tri-County area where nearly 6,000 openings will be available, including entry-level jobs for nursing assistants, personal care aides and home health aides.

The remaining 6,500 available jobs in 2030 in the Tri-County area are also expected to be career and technical education related, such as automotive technicians, contractors, agriculturists, chefs, foresters and engineers.

4.15.19

Corps of Engineers plans to dredge South Haven's harbor; Replenish beach

Starting this week, the United States Army Corps of Engineers will begin dredging South Haven's harbor, as part of a plan to shore up South Beach.

Holland-based King Company has been hired to dredge the Black River west of the Dyckman drawbridge and downriver past the channel and North Pier.

The dredged material will then be released south of the South Pier, according to a city news release. The dredging operation is expected to last two weeks, depending on the weather.

"At this point, the dredge materials will be released in the water and not directly on the beach.The materials would be carried on shore by wave action," Harbormaster and Assistant City Manager Kate Hosier said.
Boaters this week should expect to see 10 sections of 1,000-foot dredge pipe that will be staged at the South Side Municipal Marina. Once connected, the dredge pipe will extend from the dredge operation out to Lake Michigan where the material will be deposited 1,900 feet west of the South Pier.

During the dredging operation, the dredge pipe will be located on the south part of the river. City officials say there will be adequate space for boat traffic in the river, however, they are urging boaters to use caution when passing near the floating pipe and stay to the north of it.

4.8.19

Police: Texting,

driving don't mix

Law enforcement officials on the lookout for distracted drivers this week

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

If you're talking on your cell phone while driving this week, you might end up with a ticket.

As part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, area law enforcement agencies are joining others throughout the state by participating in a nationwide crackdown on districted driving. Officers will be on the lookout for distracted drivers April 11-15 to raise awareness of the harm that can occur when motorists text, eat or do other things that take their eyes off the road.

“There is a huge disconnect between the actual and the perceived dangers of driving and it is our hope that through this awareness effort, we can refocus drivers on the task at hand to make everyone’s commute safer,” said Insp. Dale R. Hinz, assistant commander for the Michigan State Police Fifth District.

Michigan saw a 57 percent increase in distracted driving crashes and a 67 percent increase in fatalities from those crashes from 2016 to 2017, according to the Michigan State Police (MSP) Criminal Justice Information Center. That’s why law enforcement agencies around the state are participating in the five-day crackdown.

According to the MSP, there were 20,115 crashes in Michigan in 2017 that involved distracted driving, and resulted in 72 fatalities. In 2016, there were 12,788 distracted driving crashes resulting in 43 fatalities.

“This is a noteworthy increase in crashes and nearly 30 more fatalities. We have to do everything possible to get those numbers trending in the opposite direction,” said Michael L. Prince, director Michigan's Office of Highway Safety Planning.

The proliferation of the use of cell phones while driving is one of the biggest distractions facing motorists.

“When you are behind the wheel, keep your phone out of reach,” Prince said. “Studies show that texting while driving takes your attention off the road more than any other activity.”

Hinz agreed.

“Distracted driving comes in many forms as most motorists have witnessed first-hand.  Eating, reading, and personal grooming while driving are some of the more common distractions of the past; however, since the advent of the cellphone and particularly the smart phone, we’ve seen an exponential increase in distracted driving related crashes,” Hinz said. “The majority of these crashes are directly related to our addiction to cell phones and our unwillingness to set them aside while driving.”

Over the years, millennials have become some of the biggest texting-while-driving offenders, also using their cell phones to talk and to scroll though social media while behind the wheel.

In 2017, “drivers under the age of 20 accounted for 20 percent of all motor vehicle crashes where a cell phone was being used,” said Van Buren County Sheriff Daniel Abbott.

And it isn't just motorists who are guilty of causing accidents while using a cell phone.

“Twenty five pedestrians and 9 bicyclists were reported to be using a cell phone at the time of a crash in Michigan in 2017,” Abbott said. “Of those, 3 pedestrians were killed.”

Motorists may or may not realize it, but texting while driving is illegal in Michigan. First-time offenders can be fined $100, while subsequent offenses cost $200, according to Michigan State Police.

And while other distractions, like drinking coffee or eating behind the wheel aren't addressed in Michigan's Motor Vehicle Code, the law, according to Hinz, does require drivers to operate their vehicles in a safe manner at all times.

A section of the vehicle code defines careless driving as a person who drives a vehicle in a “careless or negligent manner,” but not in a “wanton or reckless way.” So if an officer thinks a motorist is driving carelessly, they could potentially be ticketed.

“This section of law is typically used to enforce violations of distracted driving when a person’s driving is deemed careless or negligent and a cellphone is not involved,” Hinz said.

— John Matuszak of the Herald-Palladium contributed to this article.

4.1.19

Dyckman Bridge temporarily closed today

It's not an April fool's joke. Dyckman Avenue drawbridge will be temporarily closed to traffic today to allow for testing of repairs made last week to the bridge.

South Haven city staff will close the bridge at North Shore Drive and Dyckman Avenue at Wells street to detour traffic to Baseline Road to allow the testing to take place.

The bridge needed to be repaired due to the high water levels and freezing temperatures this winter that damaged the conduit that operates the bridge. Water seeped into the old broken concrete and split the conduit, according to city officials.

Strain Electric was hired to make the repairs and reported last Friday that all the conduit has been installed on both east and west sides of the bridge.

3.25.19

Cold case heats up

Man arraigned for murder of Bangor woman 33 years ago

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

A 51-year-old man could spend life behind bars for a murder that occurred 33 years ago in Bangor.

Michael Leon Curry faces one-count of first-degree murder for the death of 58-year-old Wilda Wilkinson, who was found strangled in her home, July 29, 1986.

He was arraigned Monday, March 18^th, in Seventh District Court in South Haven. Judge Arthur Clarke denied bond. Curry's next court date is scheduled March 27 for a probable cause hearing.

Police thought at the time of Wilkinson's death that Curry, who lived close by, may have had something to do with it.

“He was a person of interest in the initial investigation,” Det. Lt. Shane Criger of the Michigan State State Police said.

There were several people of interest that police interviewed following Wilkinson's death, but the case ended up going cold.

In 2010, however, Michigan state police detectives re-opened the cold case and then stepped up their efforts last year to pursue the unsolved murder full-time. With the mounting number of interviews and physical evidence that they gathered, Curry emerged as the lead suspect.

“We were never able to clear him,” Criger said. “As we continued the investigation it pointed more and more to him.”

A week ago, state police obtained an arrest warrant and arrested Curry in California, where he waived extradition and was brought back to Van Buren County to wait arraignment.

It was Wilkinson's daughter who found her strangled mother, according to a Herald-Palladium article that was published shortly after the murder. A nurse's aide at South Haven Community Hospital at the time, Wilkinson was divorced and lived alone. When she failed to report to work, hospital officials called her daughter to check on her mom, according to former Bangor Police Lt. Tim Wydick, who was interviewed for the article. Initially, the exact cause of Wilkinson's death was not known, however, further tests completed by Dr. Daniel Glaser, a Kalamazoo pathologist at the time, determined the cause of death was strangulation.

Wilkinson is survived by her two daughters and two sons, who police say were in continuous contact with investigators throughout the investigation.

This is not the first time Curry has faced serious criminal charges.

In 1990 he was sentenced to prison for assault with intent to commit murder for a crime that occurred in 1989 in Van Buren County, according to the Michigan Department of Corrections website. Curry was released in July of 2017.

Prior to that incident, he was sentenced in Van Buren Circuit Court in 1987 for an unarmed robbery that occurred in 1985.



3.18.19

Petitions available for SH city council hopefuls

South Haven city residents interested in running for city council have until Tuesday, April 23 to file petitions to do so.

Three council positions and the mayor's seat will be available this year. Council members whose terms will be expiring at the end of this year are Letitia Wilkins, Ward 1; Clark Gruber, Ward 2 and Steve Schlack, Ward 3. The two-year mayoral term of Scott Smith also expires. The only incumbent who cannot seek re-election is Gruber, who will be term-limited in December and not eligible to run for office, according to the city's charter.

Candidates interested in being included on the November ballot must gather 6-20 signatures, according to City Clerk Travis Sullivan. For council ward seats, candidates must obtain signatures from registered voters who reside in their ward. Mayoral candidates can collect signatures from any registered voter in the city.

Prospective council members must reside within their particular ward. The mayor, who is considered an at-large candidate, does not have to reside in a particular ward to seek office. All candidates must reside in the city for at least one year before seeking office

Petitions are available at city hall, 539 Phoenix St., and must be returned by 4 p.m., Tuesday, April 23 to be included on the general election ballot in November. If there are more than two candidates for the available council and mayor seats, there will first be a primary election in August.

3.11.19

The City of South Haven cruise ship unloads passengers from Chicago to South Haven at the Dunkley Williams dock in this photo taken  in the late 1800s. The former dock is now the site of Old Harbor Village on Williams Street. (Photo courtesy of the Appleyard Collection)

South Haven ready to turn 150 years old

Year-long celebration is in the planning stages

By TRIBUNE STAFF

Get ready to take a step back in history this year when South Haven celebrates its Sesquicentennial.

One-and-fifty-years of the town's history will be commemorated throughout the rest of this year through a series of events that are now being planned by a committee consisting of two dozen organizations and businesses.

But, the committee doesn't want to only tout the town's rich history, it also wants to put the spotlight on South Haven's current accomplishments and imagine its future.

“This celebration will be a great opportunity to honor our past and celebrate our future,” South Haven Mayor Scott Smith. “We have wonderful people, natural resources in our beaches, parks and rails and so much more. I hope everyone is able to take some time to celebrate our history and become part of our future.”

The idea to mark the town's 150^th anniversary came about from a couple of local residents who helped organize South Haven centennial celebration 50 years ago.

“The city's centennial year in 1969 was cause for a great community celebration,” Tom Renner recalled. “Several of us fondly remember that time so we approached city leaders about the possibility of celebrating the Sesquicentennial year. The response from the mayor and City Manager Brian Dissette and his staff has been overwhelmingly encouraging.”

Unlike the Centennial when the celebration centered around a single week, the Sesquicentennial committee has decided to schedule events throughout the year. Some will be stand-alone activities, like the kick-off in May, while others will be incorporated into annual events.

“South Haven is blessed with many outstanding established events for residents and visitors alike,” said Scott Reinert, executive director of the South Haven Visitors Bureau. “We want to capitalize on these great traditional events by adding the Sesquicentennial identity to them.”

For example, the Fourth of July Parade, a South Haven tradition that goes back to 1849, will adopt a Sesquicentennial theme, according to Becky Kark, editor of the South Haven Tribune, which sponsors the event along with the South Haven Rotary and Kiwanis clubs.

“The awards will be focused on entries that follow this year's parade theme, 'South Haven: Honoring our Past, Focused on the Present, Imagining our Future,” Kark said. “So, guys, you might want to start growing those pioneer-style beards and mustaches, because there's an award for that, too.”

The South Haven Post Office is even getting involved with the Sesquicentennial celebration by creating a commemorative postal cancellation that will be created in honor of the town's 150^th anniversary.

The Sesquicentennial celebration will officially begin Friday, May 10 with a community-wide picnic in Stanley Johnston Park, which overlooks the Black River and city's harbor. The park was once the site where Potawatomi Indians congregated long before white settlers came to South Haven. They called the area “Nik-o-nong,” which means “beautiful sunset,” according to an account written by the late Simon Pokagon, a Potawatomi Chief, who wrote the book, “Algonquin Legends of South Haven.” The date chosen for the picnic is also historically significant because it was the date, 150 years ago, when South Haven was chartered as a village.

“The picnic is in the planning stages and will be very family oriented,” said Rosalie Plechaty, kickoff event chairperson.

Other 150^th anniversary events will follow the picnic throughout 2019 and are now being organized by a number of groups, including the Historical Association of South Haven, Michigan Maritime Museum, Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, South Haven Arts Center and the historic Scott Club. SHOUT for South Haven also plans to focus its annual Cottage Walk on historic homes located throughout South Haven.

Community groups, businesses and individuals who want to become a part of the Sesquicentennial celebration can contact City Manager Brian Dissette by email at bdissette@south-haven.com. People can go to the website, for updates about Sesquicentennial events. The website was created by Amanda Owens of the South Haven Visitors Bureau, while the 150^th anniversary logo was designed by Jen Sistrunk, a member of the 150^th anniversary marketing committee.

3.4.19

Getting acquainted

New school chief: State of the District report provides an opportunity to meet with parents

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven area residents will have a chance to meet South Haven Public Schools' new superintendent Kevin Schooley this month when he presents a State of the District report at South Haven Memorial Library, 314 Broadway Ave.

School district residents will have three different opportunities to hear the report. The first presentation will be at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 6; the second at 10 a.m., Thursday, March 7; and the third at 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 12.

“I wanted to try to accommodate various schedules for folks in the community, so we came up with three different slots,” said Schooley, who began his new job in January.

During his presentation, Schooley said he will update parents and other area residents about school district happenings, but he also wants to give the community an opportunity to become better acquainted with him.

“While I've lived here for 27 years, I am just getting to know the families in South Haven who now have children in school,” said Schooley, who has three children, two who graduated from South Haven, and a third who is currently a senior. “Because of the ages of my children, I do know some high school parents, but for many people with younger children, I am like someone who just moved to the area as they have no idea who I am.”

Schooley came to South Haven with his wife Lori (who is now a South Haven elementary school teacher) in the early 1990s. He worked as a special education teacher in the former Central Elementary School for five years before becoming an elementary school principal in Watervliet in 1998. In 2010 he was named superintendent of Watervliet Public Schools, a position he held before South Haven Board of Education hired him to lead South Haven Public Schools.

“The connection between the school leader and kids and parents is important to me. I want folks to realize who I am, that I am accessible, and I am an active member of the school community,” Schooley said.

District residents who want to attend the State of the District report do not have to pre-register, according to Schooley.

“People do not have to sign up to attend and they do not have to show up at the start time if they are busy,” he said. “If they just want to pop in and put a face with a name, I'm happy with that as well.”

2.25.19

Robotics team ready to roll

Members of South Haven High School's robotics team are shown receiving a $1,000 donation from the South Haven Kiwanis Club after presenting a program about the robot they created for the upcoming FIRST robotics competitions. Team Ramageddon will unveil its new robot during an open house at 6:30 p.m., March 7 at the high school, 600 Elkenburg St. Last year, the team qualified to compete at the state and international FIRST robotics competitions. Also shown in the photo with the team is Team Ramageddon co-advisor Kim Wise and South Haven Kiwanis Club President Steve Mall (kneeling from left) and Team Ramageddon co-advisor Kevin Dee (standing, left).

2.18.19

When South Haven's new splash pad is complete sometime this fall its design will resemble the Michigan Maritime Museum's tall ship, Friends Good Will. South Haven Parks Commission has approved a preliminary design. The design (which is shown above) was created by Abonmarche.

New splash pad to resemble Friends Good Will tall ship

Youngsters weigh in on design

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

When Friends Good Will passengers cruise down the city's harbor toward Lake Michigan this fall they'll see something that looks oddly familiar.

It will be South Haven's new splash pad.

Plans call for the $568,500 development to resemble the Michigan Maritime Museum's tall ship, Friends Good Will, a replica of an 1800s sailing schooner that was used during the War of 1812.

South Haven Parks Commission approved the design Tuesday over another one that would have consisted of a variety of surface water jets that youngsters could run through.

Commissioners chose the Friends Good Will design after receiving input from community groups and feedback from local residents during an open house in January and even from youngsters who attend Lincoln and Maple Grove elementary schools.

The students overwhelmingly favored the Friends Good Will design which was originally suggested a year ago, as a way to reflect South Haven's maritime history.

“The input from the kids of South Haven was the primary reason why the Friends Goodwill design was selected,” said Jim Ellis of the Parks Commission. “The parks commission and city council wanted the local kids to have a voice in this decision and we selected the design that they preferred.”

Now that the preliminary design, created by Abonmarche, has been approved, city staff can proceed with final design elements. Once the final design is approved, construction bids can be sought. Construction is tentatively slated to begin right after Labor Day and should be completed sometime in the fall, according to Hunter.

The new mini water park, which will be located near South Beach,'s concession stands, will have a capacity for approximately 100 people who can run under fountains and other devices to cool off during hot days at the beach.

Splash pads are becoming more popular in shoreline communities along Lake Michigan where rip currents and high waves can make swimming conditions dangerous.

The splash pad's costs will be paid for from a $300,000 grant the city received from the Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund. The city's match will come through several funding sources, including beach parking fees, the Downtown Development Authority, capital projects fund and possibly private donations, according to City Manager Brian Dissette.



2.11.19

A Casco Township woman was rushed to Bronson Burn and Wound Center in Kalamazoo, Sunday, after the home she was in caught fire, according to a news release from South Haven Area Emergency Services. Fire investigators suspect a propane gas explosion started the fire. The incident was reported at 12:30 p.m. at a home at 6016 104^th Ave. The woman was the only occupant at the residence. The specific cause of the fire is still under investigation. South Haven Area Emergency Services was assisted by firefighters from Clyde, Columbia, Ganges and Lee townships. (Photo courtesy of South Haven Area Emergency Services)

2.4.19

Before...

A snow sculpture of a bathing beauty is shown downtown, Saturday, as part of the Ice Breaker festival. The sculpture was created in front of Oh My Darlings children's shop. But the weekend temperatures, which soared into the 40s after plummeting to -20 degrees several days beforehand, caused the sculpture to melt by Sunday (the after effects can be seen in the photo below) - photos by Tom Renner



...and after

1.30.19

The Tribune office will be closed Wednesday due to extreme weather conditions.

1.28.19

Storm forces school closures; Motorists urged to stay off the roads

Schools throughout Van Buren County, including South Haven, Bangor, Covert and Bloomingdale are closed today due to the winter snow storm that is expected to drop 6-10 inches throughout the day. Snow began falling early this morning and is still continuing as snowplow crews work hard to keep streets open for traffic.

In addition to school closures, South Haven city officials announed that city hall will be closing at 3 p.m. today, due to the inclement weather. Van Buren County offices and courts closed at noon.

Motorists are being urged to stay off roads. The National Weather Service issued the following hazardous weather warning for the the South Haven area:

"The snowstorm is on track with widespread accumulations of 8-12 inches (6-10 inches for Van Buren County) expected except south and east of I-69 where 3-6” of snow is expected. Travel will be dangerous and is not recommended today. Snow removal efforts will be difficult with prolonged recovery times. The heaviest snow is expected to taper this afternoon; however, lake effect snow is expected to impact portions of Van Buren, Allegan, and Kalamazoo county after dark leading to a prolonged recovery time."

The winter storm warning is expected to last until 7  a.m. Tuesday. The weather won't get any better, however. The National Weather Service predicts dangerously cold wind chills Tuesday through Thursday of 25 to 35 below zero along with lake effect snow showers that will result in hazardous travel conditions.

1.21.19

It's red all right!

Kelly Weber, a photographer from South Haven, stayed up late Sunday evening to capture the super blood wolf moon of 2019. The total lunar eclipse began at about 10:30 p.m. with the moon edging into Earth's shadow. The complete darkening of the moon took over an hour to occur. The "blood moon" could be viewed for an hour. According to Space.com, another total lunar eclipse will not occur until May 2021.

1.14.19

United Ways announce merger plans

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

PAW PAW — As of Thursday, United Way became a little more united in Southwest Michigan.

Van Buren County United Way is joining forces this month with United Way of Southwest Michigan as part of a merger that will become fully effective in July.

The Van Buren merger means that United Way of Southwest Michigan will now be serving the entire tri-county region of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.

“By joining forces, we're increasing the power of the community to support our nonprofits,” said Vera Sebree, Van Buren County United Way executive director.

The idea to merge has been broached a number of times, according to Anna Murphy, CEO of United Way of Southwest Michigan.

“We've been having this conversation for a couple of years,” she said. “(Vera) presented ideas to our board on how we could do more partnering to reduce duplication and create efficiencies.”

The merger will occur in a series of stages. For the first part of 2019 the two organizations will consolidate back office operations.

“There's no need for two payroll systems, for instance,” Murphy said.

Although office operations for both organizations will be consolidated, Sebree and fundraising campaign manager Kyle Tanier will continue to work at the Paw Paw office, where Van Buren County United Way has operated for several decades.

According to Murphy, Sebree will assist United Way of Southwest Michigan to create fundraising campaign strategies and meet with key stakeholders.

“We will continue to honor donor intent,” Murphy said. “Money raised in the Van Buren campaign will continue to serve local communities.”

While all of the details of the merger have not been ironed out yet, money raised from Van Buren County United Way's 2018 campaign will be distributed in April, as is normally done, to non-profit organizations that were approved for funding. Going forward, new funding will begin in July and will be effective for a two-year funding period to allow for alignment with Southwest Michigan United Way's funding process. Southwest Michigan United Way will also continue to rely on community volunteers to decide how the money raised will be allocated.

1.12.19

Palisades back online following shut down

By HP STAFF

COVERT — Palisades nuclear power reopened today after it shut down, Jan. 9, when operators manually shut down the reactor.
"The shutdown occurred while a test of the system designed to automatically shut down the reactor was under way.," said Val Gent, Palisades spokesperson. "This system inadvertently activated while testing was in progress."
The plant had synchronized to the grid on January 5 following a different maintenance outage that began January 3.
Gent said all systems responded as expected during the shutdown.
Gent said the plant is currently in a safe and stable condition and at no time was the health and safety of the public or plant challenged.
A detailed analysis of the cause and subsequent repair plan took place when the problem occurred.
Palisades returned to service Dec. 28 after a scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that began on Oct. 28. Only one more planned outage is scheduled before the plant is closed in spring of 2022.

1.7.19

Palisades plants shuts down for repairs

By ALEXANDRA NEWMAN

HP Staff Writer

COVERT — Palisades nuclear power plant operators manually shut down the reactor Thursday after fluctuations of a turbine governor valve.

“These types of valves control the flow of steam to the turbine,” Palisades spokeswoman Val Gent said.

The event happened just before midnight Thursday and was classified as a non-emergency.

Gent said all systems responded as expected during the shutdown.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission reported that “all full-length control rods inserted fully. Auxiliary Feedwater System actuated as designed in response to low steam generator water levels.”

Gent said the plant is currently in a safe and stable condition and at no time was the health and safety of the public or plant challenged.

A detailed analysis of the cause and subsequent repair plan is underway.

Palisades returned to service Dec. 28 after a scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that began on Oct. 28. Only one more planned outage is scheduled before the plant is closed in spring of 2022.





The 2019 Miss and Mr. South Haven court is shown above. Front row from left: Miss Entrepreneur Elysiah Moore, first runner-up Chloe Kinney, Miss South Haven Elizabeth Johnson and Grace Lyons. Back row from left: Mr. South Haven first runner-up Jaylin Fox and Mr. South Haven Joe Nelson.

Miss and Mr. South Haven court crowned

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Elizabeth Johnson one day aspires to be a pediatrician, but for now the South Haven High School junior will be representing her town as Miss South Haven 2019.

Johnson was crowned Saturday afternoon, along with the rest of her court, including Mr. South Haven, Joe Nelson.

“I promise I won't let you down,” said Johnson to the crowded audience that came to see the scholarship pageant at Listiak Auditorium.

The other members of the court who were crowned include Chloe Kinney, first runner-up and Miss Congeniality, Jaylin Fox, Mr. South Haven runner-up; and court members Elysiah Moore and Grace Lyons. Normally, a second runner-up to the queen is made in the pageant, but this year, that was not done because there were only four candidates for queen.

Johnson, the daughter of Laura Adkin and Matthew Redsicker, wore a beaded, straight-fit purple gown for the pageant. She is dual enrolled at South Haven High School and Lake Michigan College, and is quite active in the school and community. She has earned a Board of Education award for outstanding academic achievement, is a member of the South Haven High School Chorale, the dramatic arts department, the varsity softball team and the equestrian team. She also has earned awards through the American Quarter Horse and Michigan Quarter Horse associations. She plans to attend the University of Michigan or the University of Colorado Boulder to pursue a degree in pediatric medicine.

Kinney, a senior at South Haven High School, is the daughter of Cathy Pyle and Michael Kinney. She wore a silver, strapless, mermaid-cut gown with embroidered patterns from top to bottom for the pageant. She is dual-enrolled at South Haven High School and Lake Michigan College and after graduation plans to continue her education at LMC to major in health sciences. She is class president, and a member of the National Honor Society, the Be Nice program, Youth Advisory Committee, robotics team, drama department and softball team.

Nelson is a senior at South Haven High School and the son of Michael and Nancy Nelson. The Eagle Scout candidate is quite active in school and the community. He holds a 4.0-plus grade point average, was a state qualifier on the swim and track teams; voted most valuable runner for the cross-country team in 2018, and is this year's swim team captain. He also is a member of the Science Olympiad team, Quiz Bowl team, National Honor Society, student council, Be Nice program, orchestra and band. After graduation he plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering.

The theme for this year's pageant was “Ohio: The Birthplace of Aviation.”

Three judges chose the pageant court: Pam Kublick of Best Home Financial Services and a senior makeup consultant for Mary Kay; Anna Krajecki, a U.S. Postal service employee who is very active as a volunteer for the Miss Blueberry Festival Pageant; and Lou Price, a teacher and actor, who has performed in plays throughout Southwestern Michigan.

Paul Layendecker, operations/program director for Midwest Family Broadcasting, emceed the pageant. Brandie Rainey is the pageant coordinator.

 12.31.18

Palisades returns to service after outage

$87 million worth of work performed since Oct. 28

By ALEXANDRA NEWMAN

HP Staff Writer

COVERT — Only one more planned outage remains between now and the closure of Palisades nuclear power plant in spring of 2022.

Palisades went back online Friday morning after a scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that began on Oct. 28, according to a news release.

Workers replaced about one-third of the fuel in the reactor and inspected and upgraded hundreds of pipes, pumps, electrical components and other equipment. This was the 26th refueling in the plant’s history.

“Around 1,900 professionals, including nearly 1,300 specialist contractors, performed hundreds of activities that can only occur while the plant is offl ine,” said Charlie Arnone, Charlie Arnone, site vice president and Entergy’s top official at Palisades.

The only hiccup was in November when a throughwall leak was found during a visual inspection of the reactor head, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission reported at the time.

The non-emergency leak, as well as another control rod drive nozzle that showed similar ultrasonic characteristics, but did not exhibit evidence of through-wall leakage, were fixed before the plant went back online.

Arnone said Entergy continues to make the investments needed for the plant, 

as evidenced by the $87 million of work performed during this outage.

“We are committed to continuing to provide safe, secure and reliable electricity to area families and businesses through the plant’s permanent closure in 2022,” Arnone said.

This August, Entergy announced that it agreed to sell the subsidiaries that own Palisades to a subsidiary of U.S.-based Holtec International for accelerated decommissioning after the shutdown and reactor defueling.

Palisades employs about 600 workers and has been a part of the community since it began generating electricity in 1971. The plant generates 811 megawatts of virtually carbon-free electricity, enough to power more than 800,000 homes.





12.24.18

Photo by Becky Kark
South Haven softball team members Olivia Ellis (left) and Jordyn Holland pack groceries for Walmart customer Rose Segalo, Friday afternoon. The team surprised Segalo at the checkout lane by paying for her groceries.

Softball Santas

South Haven softball team surprises shoppers at Walmart

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

South Haven's Class B state runner-up softball team is used to racking up hits to win games.

But Friday, they put aside their bats to spread some holiday cheer.

The girls went to Walmart along with coaches Mike Sweet and Dave Gumpert where they acted as Secret Santas, randomly choosing to pay for customers' groceries and Christmas gifts at the checkout lanes.

“We had so much community support going to the state finals, we wanted to give back and what better time than at Christmas?” Sweet said.

The team managed to raise a little over $2,000 over the past several months and went to Walmart Friday afternoon, randomly selecting shoppers.

“We were watching to see who we thought needed the most help,” Rams softball player Grace Lyons said.

One of the shoppers was Judy Roggow, a grandmother of 16, who was shopping with her daughter Danielle Roggow and several grandchildren. They were not only shopping for Christmas gifts but groceries for both families.

“We saw she had grandkids and a lot to pay for, so wanted to help,” Lyons said.

By the time Roggow and her daughter finished shopping, they had several carts of groceries and gifts that were paid for courtesy of the Lady Rams.

“I saw them (team members) walking around us when we were shopping but I didn't have a clue,” Judy Roggow said. “When they told me they wanted to pay for everything I thought, 'absolutely no way.' You don't think it's going to happen to you.”

Ronnie Brown, and his fiancee' Susan Dozier, who were shopping for gifts for grandchildren, were equally as shocked.

“Thank the Lord,” Dozier said. “We are so happy and thankful.”

It didn't take long for the girls to spend the $2,000 they had raised.

“I thought we'd be here for an hour or so,” Sweet said. “It was just a half hour.”

One family's purchases, mainly spent on Christmas gifts, totaled close to $450.

“They were pretty happy,” Sweet said.

And so was Rose Segalo, a South Haven resident who lives in senior housing at River Terrace Apartment complex.

She had just stopped at Walmart to buy groceries.

“I was so surprised,” she said, when several of the softball players stepped in at the checkout counter to pay for her items.

The girls and their coaches may have only been at Walmart for a half hour and paid for groceries and Christmas gifts for a dozen people, but they all left with smiles on their faces.

“It's a whole lot more fun to give than receive,” Gumpert said.

12.17.18

(Photo by South Haven Area Emergency Services)
A South Haven Area Emergency Services firefighter tries to keep a horse calm after it became trapped in a septic tank access hole early Monday morning.  The horse was freed from the hole but later had to be euthanized because its heart was too weak to survive.

Despite heroic rescue efforts, horse euthanized after falling into a septic tank access hole

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Emergency workers spent nearly two hours working diligently to rescue a horse trapped in an abandoned septic tank access hole, but despite their lifesaving efforts, the 32-year-old Arabian horse was unable to survive and had to be euthanized.

South Haven Area Emergency Services was dispatched at 4 a.m., Monday, to rescue the horse, named Tea Cup, who had become trapped up to its head in what appeared at first to be a sinkhole.

When firefighters arrived they saw the horse had fallen into an old septic tank access hole and couldn't move. Digging around the tank, firefighters discovered Tea Cup was trapped in a large square cement casing that prevented him from getting out of the hole.

“The homeowners had just moved into the home in November,” South Haven Area Emergency Services Director Ron Wise said. The new homeowners said they were not aware a septic tank was located in the pasture where the horse had been at before falling into the hole. In fact, the homeowners didn't realize there was anything wrong with Tea Cup until their other animals – a dog and a donkey – began to make a ruckus that them up.

To free the horse, firefighters called for a backhoe from South Haven Department of Public Works and assistance from Harbor Towing Company.

“This was our first rescue of a horse from a septic tank,” Wise said. “Last year, Columbia Township Fire Department rescued a horse from an icy pond that had deep mud. Rescues with large animals usually take considerable time to complete and they aer a high safety issue due to the animal's size and weight.”

It took emergency responders and DPW workers an hour and forty-five minutes to free Tea Cup. They then spent an additional hour and a half warming the animal with portable heaters and tarps, while a veterinarian was called to evaluate the animal.

Unfortunately, after three hours of observation, the vet determined that the horse's heart was too weak for him to survive. As a result, Tea Cup had to be put to sleep.

“These call are very stressful for first responders because they love animals and know that the animal is a family member to most owners,” Wise said. “We love for all calls to have a happy ending but sometimes we do our best to limit suffering and to give comfort to the animal and their family.”

Police identify body found last week near I-94

LAWRENCE — A body found near Interstate 94 last week has been identified as a man from Lansing who had been missing for more than a year.

Michigan State Police say the skeletal remains are those of Jerome Ezell, 28, who went missing Nov. 7, 2017.

Western Michigan School of Medicine worked with Michigan State Police Anthropology Unit to make a correct identification and did so through DNA tests.

Police do not yet know the cause of Ezell's death and are conducting an autopsy. But at this point they are considering Ezell's death as a homicide, according to a news release issued by the State Police Paw Paw post.

Ezell's body was discovered, Dec. 12, when an employee at a business on Crandall Parkway in Lawrence discovered it after walking in a wooded area near their place of employment. The employee immediately notified authorities.

Ezell was last seen in the morning hours of Nov. 7 in Lansing, according to the Lansing State Journal. That evening his girlfriend found his vehicle. Ezell was not inside of it, however, their 5-month-old son was. He was taken to a hospital and determined to be in good condition. At the time, police said they found no signs of foul play.

The investigation into Ezell's death is now being conducted by the Michigan State Police First District Headquarters Special Investigation Unit. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective 1st Lt. Thomas DeClercq, 517-322-1912.



12.10.18

South Haven puts skids on pot businesses

By BECKY KARK

Editor and general manager

Entrepreneurs who want to open marijuana-related businesses in South Haven will have to hold off on their plans – at least for now.

South Haven City Council members, Monday, voted in favor of a resolution prohibiting such establishments until the city planning commission has more time to study the ramifications of a new law that Michigan voters passed in November legalizing recreational use of marijuana.

“Specifically, this ordinance 'opts out' of all (recreational marijuana) establishment types, while simultaneously directing the Planning Commission to study the issue and deliver a recommendation to the City Council by the end of 2019,” South Haven City Manager Brian Dissette said.

The city is choosing the December 2019 date because that is the deadline that has been given for the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to begin issuing licenses for recreational marijuana-related businesses.

Between now and the end of 2019, municipalities throughout the state will need to determine whether they want to “opt in” to allowing pot-related businesses or refusing to let them operate in their towns. If municipalities take no action then the businesses can exist.

“Because marijuana regulation is complex, many communities are adopting opt-out ordinances to essentially serve as placeholders while their planning commissions and staff can fully explore the issue,” Dissette said.

Neighboring St. Joseph is one town who has done just that. A week ago, city commissioners there voted to “opt out,” but may revisit whether to allow recreational pot businesses in the future.

“We’re in a holding pattern,” St. Joseph Mayor Mike Garey told the Herald-Palladium., until there is a final resolution from the state. Once the rules are set, Garey said commissioners expect to talk to residents about how to go forward.

On the surface, provisions of the new law appear to be cut and dried.

People 21 and older in Michigan can possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana in public, and up to 10 ounces of marijuana and up to 12 pot plants in their home. Marijuana can be consumed at homes but not in public places. People can also give up to 2.5 ounces of pot to another person as long as no compensation is received.

But from there the law becomes more complex – mainly because few states in America allow people to use marijuana for recreational use.

Michigan is the 11th state in the Union to legalize pot for non-medical uses and the only state in the Midwest to now allow it.

In a presentation to city council members in November, South Haven City Attorney Nick Curcio outlined several issues facing state and local officials with voter approval of Proposal 1 in November.

• Marijuana sales will still be illegal under state law unless the person making the sale has a state license to do so.

• It is not yet clear how the new law fits together with the state's medical marijuana laws.

• It appears municipalities can regulate marijuana establishments through zoning ordinances, however the new law does not expressly refer to zoning.

• Municipalities that choose to place restrictions on marijuana-related businesses, but the stipulations cannot be “unreasonably impractical.”

• The new law contains a provision that allows voter-initiated ordinances to determine whether to allow recreational marijuana businesses in their communities. However the process of doing so could differ from voter-initiated ordinance provisions contained in a town's municipal charter.

• Employers can fire workers who are found to be under the influence of marijuana.

“Court cases and administrative rules may clarify aspects of the (law),” Curcio said.



Be sure to vote for your favorite foods, activities and places to shop in the South Haven area, now through  Oct. 16. Contest winners will be announced in a special section that will be published in the South Haven Tribune in Nov. 15. 

The South Haven Tribune is a total market coverage newspaper in southwestern Michigan, delivered weekly to homes and businesses in northwestern Van Buren County and southwestern Allegan County. The Tribune is owned by Paxton Media Group and is affiliated with The Herald-Palladium.