April 14, 2011Volume 10, Number 15 Benton Harbor, MI Michigan 49022and South Bend, Indiana

Informing, Enhancing, Showcasing, Promoting and Educating Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana

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ComplimentaryCommunity Newspaper

Visit our Website: www.bentonspiritnews.com

Dr. Gray New Diversity Director at Lakeland

• See pge 5 •

Algonquin Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution honored its

2011 “Good Citizens” from 14 area high schools at a recent meeting at Whitcomb Tower in St. Joseph. The DAR National Society established this program in 1934 to recognize outstanding young people. The faculty and senior class choose an individual who shows interest in fam-

ily, school, community and nation and who displays the qualities of leadership, dependability, service and patriotism.

“Good Citizens” chairman, Avonda White-Krause, presented each student with a pin and certificate. This year for the first time, thanks to an anonymous

DAR’s 2011 “Good Citizens”

By Ralph Heibutzki Spirit Correspondent

Vowing to keep fighting against a system that he considers the first step of dismantling the city he’s led two differ-ent times, Benton Harbor Mayor Wilce Cooke will seek re-election. Cooke made those plans official in a 20-minute press conference held April 7, in front of the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen, where he outlined his major themes. Leading the list is a bill passed last month, which makes emergency financial managers like Joe Harris – who’s run Benton Harbor’s affairs since April 2010 – essentially all-powerful in their dealings with local governments. “There is a move to disenfranchise, and to displace, the citizens of Benton Harbor,” Cooke said. “This is prime real estate. You know they (corporate interests) want it, and they’re out to get it. I believe they have everything in place to take over.”

That’s why Cooke is tapping the U.S. Constitution as the source for his major

campaign theme, “We, The People,” which is how the document starts: “We,

Cooke Announces Re-election Bid:Campaign To Focus On Restoring Residents’ Rights

All are invited to join in the Benton Harbor Homeless

Shelter's community Easter egg hunt from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at Broadway Park, in Benton Harbor. Easter bas-kets will be given away to the first 25 children, and there will eggs filled with candy and toys. This event is spon-sored by the Benton Harbor Homeless Shelter coordinators Effiany Sesson, and Chiquitha Cornelius.

BH Homeless Shelter

Easter Egg Hunt for April 23

Chicken Coop of Benton Harbor

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• SEE AD ON PAGE 17 •

Back Row L to R: Taylor Pomeroy, Hartford; Andrea Barta, Lake Michigan Catholic; Brytanie Killebrew, St Joseph; and Alexandra Spaulding, Watervliet.Middle Row L to R: Brittany Tanke, Berrien Springs; Olivia Knott, Andrews Academy; Emma Schaper, Benton Harbor; Elizabeth Ruiz, Covert; and Leah Tillstrom, Eau Claire.Front Row L to R: Kelli Brownfield, Coloma and Amanda Arend, Michigan Lutheran.Missing from the picture are: Megan Johnson, Bangor; Christy Song, Lakeshore; and Hillary Espinal, Countryside Academy.

More on DAR, see page 6

More on COOKE, page 3

Wilce Cooke speaking to press regarding re-election

Michiana African-American Chamber Awards Community

Businsses• See pge 10 •

Page 2 • April 14, 2011 ASPIRING YOUNG JOURNALISTS

Visit our Website: www.bentonspiritnews.com

SPONSOR ONE OF OUR YOUTH PAGES:

Aspiring Young Journalist Page • Children’s Page • Summer Youth Calendar Page

CALL: 269/926-4241

By Patricia Plaut-PayneSpirit Correspondent

The Iota Iota Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

will be presenting their Annual Spring Debutante Cotillion and 12th Annual Fashionetta Pageant, “One Moment in Time,” Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 6 p.m. at Lake Michigan College Mendel Center. The evening includes dinner, which will be served promptly at 6:15 p.m. Tickets for the event are $25.

The sorority held a Mother/Daughter dinner at Shadowland Ballroom on Tuesday, March 22, where the young women paid tribute to their mothers. There was also a potluck luncheon April 9 for mothers, fathers and paren-tal figures. This luncheon was held at Union Memorial AME Church.

Alpha Kappa Alpha (AΚA) is the first Greek-lettered sorority established and incorporated by African American college women. The sorority was

founded on January 15, 1908, at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

The sorority consists of a diverse group of college-educated women from around the world, including, but not limited to, the United States, Africa, Japan, Canada and the Caribbean. The sorority serves through a membership of more than 250,000 women.

All proceeds from the cotillion and fashionetta pageant go to fund scholar-ships for participants and those who give service to the sorority. The 2010 schol-arship winners were as follows: Jasmine Moore-Kyle, Hazel May Scholarship $1,000; Cotillion Scholarships went to Pecolia Dismukes, $1,000; Cadaisia Askew, $500; and Erika Stigall, $500; Kaila Berry, Jhona Pringle Ivy Teen Scholarship, $500; Ivy Scholarships went to Tarja Marlow, $500; Torja Marlow, $500; Amber Thomas, $500; Jaia Clay, $300; and Chelsea Saleeby, $300; Countinuance Service Awards went to Davion Crump-McClain and

Dequail Pulliam, $200 each for their service as escorts over the past several years.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Hosts Debutante BallSaturday, April 16 at LMC

By Delinda DunlapGuest Youth Correspondent

On March 16, Dr. Solomon Ward’s Biology class at Benton Harbor High School hosted

guest speaker Sabra Shelton, U. S. Special Olympics Swim representative. Shelton is the daughter of Stewart and Mary Gruver of Stevensville, MI. Her visit marked the second installment in a series of integrated biology special guest speakers at the BHHS.

Shelton gave an outstanding presentation about her life experiences. She began swimming at the age of four and eventually became accomplished enough to enter competitions throughout the state of Michigan. She has won over eight championship swim gold medals. Shelton credits her Mom and members of her swim team for her motivation.

When asked about her routine, Shelton says she practices at least three times a week swimming an average of 40 laps at the YMCA pool and eating lots of green vegetables.

She is excited about representing the U.S. this June in Greece. She will be competing in the 400, 800 and 1500 meter free style, in addition to a relay event. Shelton anticipates returning home with one

or more gold medals.The Biology class of Benton Harbor High School

salutes Sabra Shelton and wishes her good luck.

BHHS Welcomes Special Olympic Swimmer Sabra Shelton of Stevensville

Sabra Shelton (in blue) kneels in front of Dr. Ward’s biology class. Delinda Dunlap is in the first standing row and is third from right in red pants.

The author, Delinda Dunlap, attends Benton Harbor High school and is a sophomore student in Dr. Solomon Ward’s Biology class. Her ambi-tion is to become a school guidance counselor.

By Rachel AshSpirit Intern

To me, Easter means cel-

ebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ after being dead for three days. Many people think that this holiday is just about Easter egg hunts and baskets. Easter has a deeper origin than that. I think that a lot of people have forgotten the real meaning of Easter. We have turned Easter into something that you can buy. Easter is supposed to be about celebrating the rising of Jesus Christ, and going to church learning about him. Some people have forgot-ten about that.

What Easter Means to Me

A debutante enjoying a carousel ride at Shadowland Ballroom during the Mother/Daughter luncheon. Palm Sunday Sunday, April 17

Passover: Tuesday, April 19Easter: Sunday, April 24

ENJOY & CELEBRATE!

Page 3 • April 14, 2011 PUBLISHER

Do You Know A Glorious Woman?By Princella Tobias, Founding Publisher, Spirit Community Newspapers

Visit our Website: www.bentonspiritnews.com

The Benton Spirit and Michiana Spirit Community Newspaper is published on Thursday.

Deadline:The deadline for submission is the Friday BEFORE Thursday’s published date. Exceptions can be made for paid sub-mittals, but confirmation by the Spirit is needed.

We prefer information to be submitted by e-mail to:news@bentonspiritnews.com or you can send:FAX: (269) 925-4540MAIL: P.O. Box 465 Benton Harbor, MI 49023 WEB SITE: www.bentonspiritnews.com

Distribution:The Benton Spirit Community Newspaper is distributed throughout the communities of Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana and growing, on Thursday. Online version is sent by Saturday.

Subscription: A copy of the Benton Spirit will be mailed first-class to you for only $35 for 6 months or $70 for a year.

The Power of Freedom of Speech. Note: editorials and letters to the editor are not the opinion and/or view of the Benton Spirit, but the viewpoint of the author.

P.O. Box 465Benton Harbor, MI 49022Telephone: (269) 926-4241

Fax: (269) 925-4540www.bentonspiritnews.com

Publisher - Princella TobiasCo-Editor - Desmond Murray, PhDAdministrator - Patricia Plaut-Payne

Aspiring Young Journalists: - Benton Harbor Public Library Teen Advisory Board, Boys & Girls Club of Benton Harbor, Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan, HHUM, and I’m Saving Myself.

Community Liaison - Ralph Heibutzki, Candrice Williams, Greg Osmun, Tyler DeJong, Linda Strohl, Richard Smith, Tim Johnson, Trenton Bowens, Stephan Tinsley, Elaine Osmun, and Pastor Michael Carson.

Advertising Sales - Princella Tobias

No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without permis-sion from the publishers. All rights reserved worldwide.

the people, in order to form a more perfect union...” If re-elected, Cooke will take an active role in overturning the bill, which its critics have denounced as “financial martial law.” Among other provisions, the law enables EFMs to cancel collec-tive bargaining agreements, local laws or ordinances; cut worker pay; seize and sell public assets; and even recommend that the consolidation or dissolution of municipal governments, if the financial manager deems that step necessary to accomplish their goals.

One other aspect of the law disturbs Cooke, who served as mayor from 1982 to 1989, and returned to office in 2004. “If you look at the law, what does it say? An individual organization, or even a corporation, could be appointed to run a city,” Cooke said. “Amway could run Grand Rapids. Kellogg’s could run the Battle Creek area. If they (state legisla-tors) want it that way, I think they’ll have a big problem. We don’t need that. It says, ‘We the people, in order to form a more perfect union...’”

A public rally is also planned, once the weather improves, to highlight Cooke’s major problem with the bill – of residents not having a voice, while an appointed official gets to run their city, he said. “This is what the Boston Tea Party was about: ‘taxation without representa-tion,’ and everything else is based on that,” Cooke said. “People have died to

get the right to vote, and you cannot have the state legislature – whom we elect, to go to Lansing – not look out for our inter-ests, and disregard the people.”

In Cooke’s opinion, a court chal-lenge offers the most likely avenue for trying to overturn the law. Benton Harbor is working with entities where EFMs are in place – including the city of Pontiac, and Detroit Public Schools – as well as the American Civil Liberties Union, whose attorney would take the lead, if the ACLU accepts the case, Cooke said. “We have a consortium where we’re working closely together, because we believe – once we get that particular item into the Supreme Court – it would be overturned. It is a violation of the constitution,” he said.

Looking beyond those concerns, Cooke plans to aggressively push for more jobs and investment, he said. Cooke is co-chair of the “Michigan Is Yours” campaign, which is promot-ing a ballot initiative to allow six new casinos in the state. The group didn’t get enough signatures for such an ini-tiative last year, but plans to try again, according to Cooke. “We’re circulating petitions now, in hopes of putting it on the ballot next year. These will not be Indian casinos, but privately-owned,” he said.

One point overlooked in the EFM debate is Benton Harbor’s loss of its tax base, from which many of its current problems – such as its estimated $6 mil-lion deficit – have sprung, Cooke said. “When I was growing up as a little boy here, this was called the ‘Shenandoah of Southwest Michigan,’” Cooke said. “We had all the business – we had the retail stores down here, we had five or six different foundries and facto-ries in the community. We don’t have that anymore. And that’s what we’re pushing this administration of Benton Harbor, to aggressively advocate for new jobs in our community.”

If re-elected, Cooke pledged to pur-sue those plans with help from his allies on the City Commission – including Mayor Pro Tem Marcus Muhammad, and City Commissioner Duane Seats II, who declared their support for him at the April 4 meeting, he noted. “I think we have the best council we’ve had in many years. They are articulate, they do their research, and when they speak, nine times out of 10, you can believe they have the facts. They know what they’re talking about,” Cooke said. “Again, it’s ‘we, the people’, not me. If we drop the ball, they’re going to lose.”

The Benton Spirit Community Newspaper is running a contest to give the “Most Glorious” woman you

know the chance to attend “The Most Glorious Woman Conference,” May 19 – 21. In addition to winning a ticket to attend, she will also be able to bring one “young woman” between the ages of 12 and 19 as her guest and receive a Most Glorious t-shirt, commemorative magazine and a badge. Anyone can nominate a Most Glorious Woman, so guys, let’s hear from you. To enter the contest, write about the “most glorious” woman you know, what makes her glorious, and how she has inspired you in your life.

Articles will be judged by the Benton Spirit editorial staff and winners will be notified one week before the con-ference. Deadline for entries is May 6, 2011. Send entries

via email (preferred method of entry) to news@benton-spiritnews.com or by mail to Benton Spirit Community Newspaper, P.O. Box 465, Benton Harbor, MI 49023. There will only be one winner, so attend this amazing con-ference by contacting World Embassy Church.

The World Embassy Church, 2525 Territorial Rd., Benton Harbor, Most Glorious Women's Conference, May 19-21, 2011. Registration $30 per person. Dr. Pam Golliday and her guest speakers will inspire you to live in the Glory of God. Hope to see you there! For more details call (269) 934-7816 or visit www.worldembassychurch.org.

Spirit News is currently seeking the following:

Paid Positions Volunteer with Benefits• Sales Reps. • Graphic Designer• Graphic Designer • Writers (South Bend area) • Calendar of Events Coordinator

Call: (269) 926-4241 or email: editor@bentonspiritnews.com

COOKE, continued from Page 1

Page 4 • April 14, 2011 GOVERNMENT

By Ralph Heibutzki, Spirit Correspondent

Editor’s Note: To all who wrote to us regarding the apportionment process in Berrien County, please be advised that the County of Berrien’s Clerk advised us that she did not send out information regard-ing the first scheduled meeting, because the State of Michigan did not send her information before the 15-day deadline. Nevertheless, the Benton Spirit took the ini-tiative and contacted the Clerk’s office. We encourage all to attend the next meetings.

Benton Charter Township residents could lose a county commissioner under a

proposal discussed by the Berrien County Reapportionment Commission, at its first meeting, held on April 8. The five-member group chaired by Berrien County Treasurer Bret Witkowski has until June 3 to decide how the county’s 13 commission districts should be redrawn in accordance with U.S. Census figures. The group’s work coincides with the census, which is done every 10 years.

“That means population deviation (from the Census figures) can’t be more than 11.9 percent, between the largest and smallest (county commission districts),” Witkowski said. Besides Witkowski, the group includes County Prosecutor Art Cotter; County Clerk Louise Stine, who witnessed the 1990 and 2000 reapportionments; Democratic Party Chairman Shirley Stansberry; and Republican Party Chairman Stanley W. Smith.

Most of Friday’s roughly 90-minute meeting at the Berrien Administrative Center, 701 Main St., St. Joseph, focused on a plan submitted by Witkowski, “just to get the conversation started,” he said. Witkowski’s plan preserves the current 13-member com-mission, with two major changes. He’s pro-posing to take the Benton Charter Township side of Fairplain from District 6 – now served by County Commissioner Jeanette Leahey – and include that area in District 3, instead.

Nearby, District 4 would pick up a pre-cint from Benton Township’s west center portion under Witkowski’s plan, too, because he thinks that district is too small. District 4 includes the entire city of Benton Harbor, plus Precint 2 from the township (south of the city limits, west of Urbandale Avenue, north of Territorial Road, and west of Bridgman Avenue). These changes would reduce the number of county commissioners repre-senting Benton Charter Township. Besides Leahey, that group includes Marletta Seats, Bob Wooley, and Mamie Yarbrough. “For me, it solves two problems,” Witkowski said of his proposal. “One is Benton Township having four commissioners. The other is District 6 – her (Leahey’s) district is too big. She falls within that population deviation (under Witkowski’s plan),” he said.

Witkowski expects five meetings to complete the process, and submit the revised county commission districts for certifica-tion by Secretary of State Ruth Johnson’s office. The next reapportionment meetings are scheduled for noon on Tuesday, April 26; Friday, May 6; and Tuesday, May 31. One night meeting is also set for Tuesday, May 31, with the time to be announced.

Eleven-Member Plan Discussed Reapportionment Commission mem-

bers also voiced a willingness to look at an 11-commissioner plan, as well. “I person-

ally think that we should look at 11 (com-missioners), and also, nine,” County Clerk Louise Stine, said. “That is what we’ve done at the previous two reapportionments. With this one, it’s even more critical we do that, because of the loss of population.” The 2010 U.S. Census showed Berrien County with 156,813 residents, which is down from the 162,453 recorded in 2000.

Stine also suggested that the county could show its seriousness about getting fiscally responsible by cutting the num-ber of commissioners. According to her research, each county commissioner costs about $50,000 per year, which includes sala-ries, fringe benefits, per diems and mileage, she said. “You can see, Berrien County has the highest number of commissioners,” said Stine, as she pointed to a projection of her survey, blown up for easy view. “There are counties, much larger than Berrien County, that have fewer commissioners than we do. There are a lot of people in our country, and our county, who are having a difficult time financially. We as a reapportionment commis-sion have to at least look at a reduction.”

But Seats challenged both rationales, citing a different viewpoint from county employees whom she’d canvassed about the issue. “I’ve asked that question, ‘Why 13 (commissioners)?’ Some of the reasons they like it is – if you’ve got nine people, it’s easier to get those nine against (an idea), than it is to rally those other people. We’ve got certain instances – without going into extreme detail – where we need those other people, to get other people, to say (‘yes’ on a critical vote),” she said. Although the public may think that commissioners are overpaid, Seats doesn’t see it that way, saying, “I don’t make $50,000 – I don’t take benefits.”

“We Could Stand To Lose A Lot”County Administrator Bill Wolf and

Berrien Trial Court judges have also voiced support for the current 13-member commis-sion lineup, according to Seats. “We’ve got too much weighing in the balance – right now, we could stand to lose a lot, as far as property is concerned, because you can rescind anything you want to.” With the county facing so many financial issues, cutting the board’s makeup doesn’t seem prudent now, Seats said. “If they need to cut back on some of their benefits, I would rather see that (done), until we get over some of the humps coming from the state,” Seats said. “We need people who just don’t have this (attitude of), ‘everything is north county,’ everything is south county.’”

For his part, Cotter suggested looking at an 11-member plan. “I think we do have to look at tough times – even if you don’t get paid $50,000, with the benefits, and everything else, it still costs $50,000,” he said. From Stine’s viewpoint, whether an 11-member plan works remains to be seen, “but if you stay with 13, I’m going to dis-agree with some of your changes,” she told Witkowski.

Witkowski witnessed his share of 6-6 deadlocks that required him to cast a tie-breaking vote – which is why he also thinks the 13-member board has worked well. “We have four commissoners on each issue – which is huge, as you know. That (his plan) would make it three (commissioners). Again, my view is different,” Witkowski said.

Berrien’s Reapportionment Gets Underway

By Jess Minks,Guest Columnist

Questions about newly-passed leg-islation to boost the powers of

emergency financial managers domi-nated a town hall meeting held at Refreshing Fountains Outreach, 175 S. Euclid Ave., Benton Harbor, where former Lieutentant Governor and state legislator John Cherry was the fea-tured speaker. Other panelists includ-ed Berrien County Commissioner Marletta Seats, Benton Harbor City Commissioners Dennis Knowles and Marcus Muhammad, United Steel Workers Local 13729 Representative Chris Wegner and Dr. Shirley Stansberry. Eddie Minks served as the moderator.

Cherry focused largely on the work-ings of the EFM bill, which State Rep. Al Pscholka (R-Stevensville) sponsored, and Governor Rick Snyder signed into law last month. Asked about the pros-pects of recalling Snyder so early in his first term, Cherry responded, “Citizens can try to initiate a referendum to be placed on the ballot and voted on by the citizens of Michigan. This is your rem-edy.” Cherry explained that the law is not new, but has been rewritten to give emergency managers broader powers – such as the ability to restructure city and county governments by removing elected officials. Even before the bill passed, emergency managers have not been popular where they have been appointed, according to Cherry. “That’s just natural that people don’t like hav-ing democracy taken away from them. That’s what happens when emergency managers are appointed,” he said.

Wegner addressed the poten-tial unconstitutionality of eliminating signed contracts with public workers,

while Stansberry focused on the bill's effect on schools. Besides financial issues, the bill also allows EFMs to address a district's curriculum, and look into closing schools, if the manager deems that step necessary to accom-plish their goals. Seats voiced a desire to learn more about the legislation, adding that she was not attending as a representative of the county. Asked if she felt the county was going to be under pressure if the governor's pro-posed budget cuts pass, she simply replied: “Yes.”

In their comments, Knowles and Muhammad focused on one of the biggest changes made to Pscholka's bill, which would allow corporations to become named as emergency manag-ers – a step that Knowles labeled as a “hostile takeover” of Benton Harbor, where EFM Joe Harris has been in charge since April 2010. ” If residents can’t afford to stay in the city then they will just have to leave, and Cornerstone Alliance and Whirlpool will make Benton Harbor a resort town,” he said. Muhammad repeated previous state-ments that the city's takeover amounted to a “coup d’etat.”

Former Lt. Gov. John Cherry in Berrien County: New EFM Law

Focus in Benton Harbor

WASHINGTON, DC – On April 8, the U.S. House of

Representatives today passed a bipar-tisan Resolution of Disapproval coau-thored by Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, to reverse the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) “network neu-trality” rules. The FCC approved its new Internet regulations this past December after a federal court ruled the agency lacked such regula-tory authority. The House resolu-tion (H.J.Res.37) comes under the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress the opportunity to repeal recently enacted agency regula-tions. H.J.Res.37 passed the House this afternoon by a vote of 240-179. As per the Congressional Review Act, the filibuster-proof resolution now

moves to the Senate for consideration, where only a simple majority vote is necessary for passage.

“People in southwest Michigan know that the Internet is free and flour-ishing today without the guiding hand of unelected government bureaucrats,” said Upton. “The FCC’s overreaching regulations will cause more harm than good by stifling private innovation, investment, and jobs. George Will put it best when he observed that most Americans believe the Internet works great and the U.S. government does not – so why on earth would we want to put the government in charge of the Internet? Free market principles and consumer demand have been the driv-ing forces of the Internet’s success and should remain so today.”

House Passes Upton FCC Resolution

John Cherry

Page 5 • April 14, 2011 HEALTH

Lakeland HealthCare recently announced that Lynn Gray, MD,

MPH, has accepted a part-time position as Medical Director of Diversity at Lakeland HealthCare. Dr. Gray is employed by Emergency Physicians Medical Group (EPMG) of Ann Arbor, which provides Emergency Medicine physicians to the emergency departments at Lakeland's three acute inpatient facilities. He has spent more than 30 years practicing medi-cine in Southwest Michigan.

"Cultural competency is one of the main ingredients in closing the dispari-ties gap in healthcare. Healthcare services that are respectful of and responsive to the health beliefs, cultural, and linguis-tic needs of a diverse patient population can help bring about positive health out-comes," Dr. Gray said.

"Improved access to healthcare for everyone, reduction of health workforce disparities, improved healthcare educa-tion for patients, and a positive culture of diversity at Lakeland facilities are among the few benefits that will come from our efforts. Because of the diversity of our community in Southwest Michigan, great opportunities exist for Lakeland and our community to reduce these healthcare disparities."

According to Loren B. Hamel, MD, President and CEO, Lakeland HealthCare, the Medical Director of Diversity role is

new to the organization and underscores Lakeland's desire to be the healthcare provider of choice to all those within our community.

"Dr. Gray - from his unique under-standing of how our minority patients access both outpatient and inpatient care, to his reputation as being a thoughtful, skilled, and compassionate provider - is well-positioned to help guide Lakeland into a deeper understanding and commit-ment to provide the very best care possible to all those we serve," Dr. Hamel said.

“I feel that we are moving in the right direction. This is a tremendous start and we must continue to work together to make – Lakeland and the community of Benton Harbor. The community is willing to work with Lakeland, as long as Lakeland is will-ing to work with community,” stated Rev. Edward Pinkney, president of the Benton Harbor Chapter of the NAACP,

About Dr. Lynn Gray Education: Dr. Gray received a

Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Michigan in 1975 and com-pleted a residency in Family Medicine in Grand Rapids in 1978. In 1994, he com-pleted a Masters of Public Health degree from Loma Linda University.

• Career: From 1978 to 1979, he taught as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee. He opened a practice of family medicine in Benton

Harbor in 1979. Dr. Gray transitioned to full-time emergency medicine in 1995.

• Dr. Gray has held medical director positions for Orchard Grove Extended Care Facility, the Berrien County Jail, and Planned Parenthood. He has served as a consultant to the Michigan Peer Review Organization and to Lakeland's Case Management and Performance Improvement departments.

• Leadership Positions: Dr. Gray has provided leadership as past-president and as a current member of the board to the Michigan Academy of Family Practice, and is also serving on the Boards of the Michigan State Medical Society, Andrews University, and the Lakeland Specialty Hospital.

• Personal Achievement: Dr. Gray is a lifetime member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Dr. Lynn Gray Named Medical Director of Diversity at Lakeland

"Dr. Gray ...is well positioned to help guide Lakeland into a deep-

er understanding and commitment to provide the very best care possible to all those we serve" --Dr. Loren B. Hamel, President and CEO, Lakeland

Dr. Loren B. Hamel

Dr. Loren B. Hamel

Page 6 • April 14, 2011 COMMUNITY

Anonymous donors recently estab-lished the Harbor Country Area

Endowment Fund at the Berrien Community Foundation. Grants from the spendable of this endowment fund will assist multiple nonprofit/exempt organizations in and/or serving Harbor Country® (Michiana, Grand Beach, New Buffalo, Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert, Sawyer and Three Oaks and all related municipalities).

A Foundation committee will coordinate awareness building and fundraising efforts for the fund and provide grant recommendations from time to time. Committee members are Colleen Mitchell, Chair, Mary Dunbar, Hillary Bubb, and Nanette Keiser, Berrien Community Foundation President.

“We’re excited about partner-ing with the Berrien Community Foundation for this endowment fund that will benefit Harbor Country, “ said Colleen Mitchell, Committee Chair. “We also look forward to involving those who want to celebrate and support the uniqueness of Harbor Country.”

Donors making contributions to this fund at the Berrien Community

Foundation will have the Michigan Community Foundation Tax Credit available in 2011, in addition to the regular tax deduction for such con-tributions. The Berrien Community Foundation was established in 1952 as an innovative means by which any concerned individual can put chari-table dollars to work for the benefit of Berrien County and beyond. For more information about how to give to this fund call 269-983-3486 or visit www.berriencommunity.org.

Harbor Country Endowment Fund Established

Algonquin member, a $100 monetary award was given by the chapter to the winning “Good Citizen”. The recipient was Taylor Pomeroy from Hartford High School.

Area “Good Citizens” are:

Amanda Arend – Michigan Lutheran, is the daughter of Steven and Connie Arend of Sodus. She is an Honor Roll Student, Academic Challenge team member, lettered in varsity basketball, soccer and cheerlead-ing. She received All Conference Red Arrow Scholar Athlete Award, and participates in chorus, Festival Singers, music and drama pro-ductions, Rotary Club and Art club. Amanda plans to attend college and major in Applied Mathematics.

Andrea (Annie) Barta – Lake Michigan Catholic, is the daughter of Tom and Lisa Barta of Stevensville. She is a member of National Honor Society, varsity volleyball (captain), basketball and track, Key Club and Vice President of the senior class. Community service includes volunteering at Birthright and fundraising and service projects through Key Club. Annie plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a Nursing Degree.

Kelli Brownfield – Coloma, is the daugh-ter of Jim and Donna Brownfield of Coloma. She is president of both National Honor Society and Future Educators of America and vice President of Student council. She was Girls State Rep in 2010, a team leader in Postponing Sexual Involvement and a Dance Team member for 4 years. She volunteers at Miracle League and MI Blood Drives and has studied Dance (tap, ballet and jazz) for 12 years. Kelli plans to attend Capital University in Columbus, Ohio to major in Psychology.

Hillary Espinal – Countryside Academy, is the daughter of Francisco and Olivia Espinal of Sodus. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club and FFA, presi-dent of Student Government and member of the track team. Her community service includes volunteering at blood drives, tutor-ing and helping at school events. Hillary plans to attend college to pursue a career in the medical field, possibly Dental Hygiene or Radiology.

Megan Johnson – Bangor, is the daugh-ter of Rocky and Amy Johnson of Bangor. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Driving, var-sity basketball, cross country and track teams, served on Student Council and as class presi-dent. Community service includes two mis-sion trips to the Appalachian Mountains, help-ing at Vacation Bible School, and volunteering as a 3rd grade girls’ basketball coach. Megan plans to attend Grand Valley State University and major in Elementary Education.

Brytanie Killebrew – St. Joseph, is the daughter of Earl and Penny Killebrew of St. Joseph. She is St. Joseph HS Student Ambassador, 4 year Honor Roll student, Senior mentor and tutor, received varsity letters for football sideline cheerleading, com-petitive cheerleading and track and field. She is the recipient of the Rotary Youth Leadership Award and Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. She volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and Children’s Miracle. Brytanie plans to attend either University of Michigan or Michigan State to earn a degree in Communications and then major in Broadcast Journalism.

Olivia Knott – Andrews Academy, is the daughter of Ron and Esther Knott of Berrien Springs. She is editor of the school newspa-

per and has served on mission trips to Peru, Ecuador, Chile and Honduras. Olivia plans to attend Andrews University and dedicate a large part of her life to overseas mission work. She would also like to write and illustrate children’s books.

Taylor Pomeroy – Hartford, is the son of Marshall and Diana Pomeroy of Hartford. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl team, Science Olympiad team, concert band, drum major of the marching band and Student Council vice president/sec-retary. He volunteers as a tutor for an after school program. Taylor plans to attend the University of Michigan to study engineer-ing. Taylor’s essay was chosen as our “Good Citizen” Essay winner. His essay was out-standing, and has been entered in the State “Good Citizen” Essay Competition.

Elizabeth Ruiz – Covert, is the daugh-ter of Natalia Mendoza and Matias Ruiz of Covert. She is a member of the National Honor Society, JROTC Public Affairs Officer, Translator and plays on the hockey team. Elizabeth plans to attend college and study accounting.

Emma Schaper – Benton Harbor, is the daughter of Jurgen and Heidi Schaper of Benton Harbor. She is a member of the National Honor Society and valedictorian of the senior class. Her community service includes volunteer clean-up following the Krasl Art Fair and Ironman Triathlon races. She is part of the “Fire Up” after school program at the Glassworks and during the summer attended an internship program at Whirlpool. Emma is planning a career in the Health Field.

Christy Song – Lakeshore, is the daugh-ter of Chris and Kim Song of Stevensville. She is vice president of the National Honor Society, Student Body president, student class representative, a member of Key Club and the varsity girls soccer team. She has volunteered for summer Inner City Missions, beach and roadside clean-up projects, “Stuff a Bus”, Boys

and Girls Club, and Soup Kitchen. Christy’s future plans are to become an influential jour-nalist in the fashion industry, impacting and creating new styles, trends and fads.

Alexandra (Alex) Spaulding – Watervliet, is the daughter of Bill and Sandy Spaulding of Watervliet. She is a mem-ber of the National Honor Society, president of the senior class, Girls State alternate, Student Council president and 4-year member of varsity volleyball, softball, basketball and track teams. She was chosen 1ST Team All Conference in softball, volleyball and basket-ball and All-Regional in softball and volley-ball. Her community service includes volun-teering with church youth group, Habitat for Humanity, blood drives, elementary libraries , and as a Special Olympics “Buddy”. Alex plans to attend the University of Michigan and pursue a degree in Business with a minor in Human Resources.

Brittany Tanke – Berrien Springs, is the daughter of Robert and Susan Tanke of Berrien Springs. She is a member of Concert Choir and Women’s Choir and served as manager for the girls’ J. V. volleyball team. She volunteers on food drives for Path Finders and in the Neighbor to Neighbor pro-gram. Brittany plans to attend Southwestern Michigan College to major in Psychology and minor in Business.

Leah Tillstrom – Eau Claire, is the daughter of Carolyn Tillstrom of Eau Claire and Timothy Tillstrom of Hartford. She is a Student Council member, received Outstanding Academic Awards all 4 years of high School and received the Society of Women Engineers Award. She serves as a Michigan Blood Drive volunteer. Leah plans to attend Southwestern Michigan College for 2 years and then transfer to Ferris State College to study Pharmacy.

DAR, continued from page 1

Harbor Country Area Endowment Fund Committee Members Colleen Mitchell, chair, Hillary Bubb, Mary Dunbar, and Nanette Keiser (l to r)

April 14, 2011 • Page 7SCIENCE PAGE

By Princella TobiasSpirit Correspondent

From the Model T, to the SUV, and maybe a robot that you can tell it where you want to go and -- pizzazz-- you are there. Every day

inventions are being made. Have you ever thought it could be you -- the inventor -- changing the world. Now that is awesome, and for stu-dents at Boynton Montessori Magnet School in Benton Harbor and Dr. Desmond Murray’s early research program at Andrews Unversity for students throughout Berrien Regional Education Services Agency (RESA), it is real and fun!

Boynton Montessori Magnet SchoolBoynton Montessori Magnet School, 1700 E. Britain,

Benton Harbor, held its Science Fair Night, Wednesday, March 30. The event was a fun night that included students in grades two through five talking about their projects, a sci-ence gallery walk, with an awards ceremony, and plenty of refreshments.

As you can see from the photograph on the right, the fair lived up to the schools motto of "Boynton Montessori School, where students are learning, teachers are teaching and parents are involved!"

RESA and BEST Team Up for 1st BEST Early Research Symposium - April 27, 2011

Berrien RESA and Building Excellence in Science & Technology (BEST) will host the 1st BEST Early Research Symposium, where Berrien County Mathematics & Science Center students will present research and demonstrate col-lege-level lab techniques on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at 12:30 p.m. This event, open to students, parents, educators and other officials, will be held at Andrews University, A-107 Chemistry Lecture Hall, Halenz Hall, 4270 Administration Drive, Berrien Springs, MI.

The event will showcase Berrien RESA’s Berrien County Mathematics & Science Center (BCMSC) students as they formally present research, engage in discussions about their experience, and demonstrate college-level lab techniques.

The event represents a capstone project for the BEST Early Research Program, providing a public showcase that emphasizes the research achievements of BCMSC seniors.

For more information, contact Desmond Murray, Ph.D at (269) 757-1641 or (269) 471-6087 or email murrayd@andrews.edu, or RESA Superintendent’s Office, for Kevin M. Ivers, Ph.D.• Kevin.ivers@berrienresa.org.

More on BESTFor over 10 years, the BEST Early Research Program

has been engaging high school students in high-level sci-entific research and discovery that allows them to become excited about science and to pursue scientific careers. In addition to the possibility of students making scientific breakthroughs, the program acts as an “incubator of innova-tors” by potentially building the research and development workforce.

Boynton Elementary, RESA and BESTWhere Science

Rules!

Page 8 • April 14, 2011

First Chance, Inc., 155 W. Wall St., Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Phone: (269) 277-5411

STAY CONNECTED WITH US

Students may choose from a variety of activities in which to participate during enrichment.

Parents are notified of their child’s activities, behavior and special events through weekly phone calls.

First Chance will not discriminate against any individual or group because of race, religion, age, national origin, color, height, weight, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political beliefs or disability. If you need help with reading, writing, hearing, etc., under the Americans with Disabilities Act, you are invited to make your needs known to First Chance.

A safe environment for youth to be in after school!

Family Services•Technology Programs

•Family Literacy •Family Activities

& Involvement

Youth Development•Drug and Violence

Prevention •Character Education

•Mentoring

Academic Enrichment•Expansion of Curriculum

•Tutorial Services

Enrichment•Arts & Music

•Drama & Dance •Technology •Recreation

Participating students receive academic support to get home-work finished.

Thursday, March 17, 2011 all First Chance After School Program sites joined together, at Benton Harbor High School’s Student Commons, to honor their heritage at the Annual Heritage Celebration.

Students from Sorter Elementary performed a drama scene representing Africans being taken from their home land and forcibly brought by boat to America. Sorter students also performed a dance and one student read poetry. Morton Hill students presented great African American Inventors that have inspired them. Students from Fair Plain West gave speeches of famous African Americans and Caucasians during a “Who Am I?” presentation. Fair Plain Renaissance students performed a dance that showcased many different dance styles. The Benton Harbor High School students performed poetry both written by them-selves and other authors as well as performed a dance that got the crowd on to their feet!

The Heritage Celebration was also an opportunity for First Chance to give back to our participating families with a Coat/Hat/Boots/Back Pack Give- Away as well as a Book Give Away. First Chance would like to thank the performing students for their hard work and excellent performances! We would also like to extend our gratitude to the parents and families who took the time to join us for this amazing event!

First Chance purpose states that we, “engage in providing services throughout the commu-nity that will allow residents to have better opportunities in life...”. We do so by invest-ments and partnerships with businesses such

as Tri-County Bookkeepers who invest into your community. If your organization is interested in donating to First Chance please contact our office so you can make a change in your community today!

YOUTH

April 14, 2011 • Page 9COMMUNITY

No firm conclusions were reached, and no votes cast, but residents attend-ing a forum at City Hall Monday night were quick to suggest how Benton

Harbor City Commissioners should spend a $200,000 donation from Whirlpool Corporation. Residents made suggestions in several major categories, such as citywide beautification efforts, educational programs, entertainment and sum-

mer jobs. Residents also wanted to see allocations for senior citizens and local outreach programs, such as the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen.

Commissioners accepted the donation agreement last September, but have not decided on how it should be allocated. The donation falls under a Community Benefit Package from Whirlpool, with $200,000 per year promised

through 2011-2014, which increases to $300,000 per year for the remainder of the agreement (2015-2023). As part of the agreement, the company wants Mayor Wilce Cooke, Mayor Pro Tem Marcus Muhammad and Emergency Financial Manager Joseph Harris to sign a document outlining how the funds will be used, and how the com-munity will benefit.

Additionally, after the first year, Whirlpool wants a breakdown of the city spent the previous year’s amount. Cooke is still looking to hear more input from citizens on how the money should be spent. To reach Cooke, contact him through City Hall at (269) 927-8408, or his voicemail line, (269) 849-9490. Residents can also reach Cooke online by emailing: yourvoice@mayorcooke.com.

Mayor Wilce Cooke

Wants to Hear from YOU! We held this meeting to give you, the citizens of Benton Harbor, an opportunity to be heard. Should you have other thoughts/suggestions after you leave this meeting or know others who wish to comments, please tell them to contact me below:City Hall – Clerk’s Office  (269) 927‐8408 

E‐Mail Address  yourvoice@mayorcooke.comPersonal Voice Mail  (269) 849‐9490 

You may also have other suggestions/concerns regarding other issues please do not hesitate to contact me today. I am here to serve you, the citizens of Benton Harbor, MI. –Wilce L. Cooke, Mayor, City of Benton Harbor 

Whirlpool $200K Donation Discussed:

Mayor Wants Citizens’ Suggestions

Visit our Website: www.bentonspiritnews.com

Page 10 • April 14, 2011 SOUTH BEND SPIRIT

By Ralph HeibutzkiSpirit Correspondent

Several area businesses received plaques honor-

ing their creativity and lon-gevity during the Michiana African-American Chamber of Commerce’s First Annual Spring Recognition Dinner and Dance, held on March 26, at the Firefighters Banquet Hall, in South Bend, IN. “We wanted to recognize some of the oldest busi-nesses in the area, and support all of the businesses that are already here,” Chamber President Glenn L.Williams said, of the event’s purposes.

South Bend businesses receiv-ing awards included Wigfall’s Barber Shop, which has existed for 47 years, and also hosts a “First Thursday” event for dis-tributing food to needy residents in their neighborhood, Chamber President Glenn L.Williams said.

Harris Liquor Store, which has existed for 56 years on South Bend’s east side, also received a plaque from the chamber. The owner is James Harris, who’s also been politically active in that area, as well, Williams said.

From Benton Harbor, Michigan, Arlene Sisson of Smoky’s Lounge was recognized for 47 years in the business. T. H. Holton, am employee and friend, received the award on behalf of Mrs. Sisson, affectionally known as Mrs. Smoky. “She could not be here today, but is apprecia-tive for this award. She has been in the business a long time and people from and around this area respect her tremendoursly. When many Black singer were not allowed in places years ago, Smoky’s Lounge was the place.

From B.B. King to some of the greats. She does so much for the community, I would not know where to start. Her heart is big,” stated Holton.

MAACC Vice President, Kenny Harper, added, “Mrs. Smoky is a true legend. She was a trailblazer during the Civil Rights era, one of the first black stenographers in our area and has been a mother and men-tor to many in our community. Mrs. Smoky holds Christmas and Valentine’s events for the youth and helps local veterans, includ-ing the Old Timers Organization. She has done it all.”

Also recogized, was Willie “Curley” Williams, woner of Industrial Sanitation of Benton Harbor. “Williams has been in business for many decades and was one of the few minority contractors at the Cook Nuclear Plant, when it was under con-struction. His company has pro-vided many job opportunities for people in our community,” states Harper.

The night also gave the Chamber an opportunity to remind everyone attending of its goals for the year, which include starting 10 to 15 new businesses in the Michiana area, Williams said. “Those folks who are interested will be involved in a business incu-bator, where we’ll instruct them, and follow them through a two-year process,” he said.

For more information, con-tact the Chamber at (574) 287-3000. Meetings run every third Thursday, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Sample Street Business Complex, 3702 Sample St., Suite 105, South Bend, IN. You can visit their website at: www.maaccmeansbiz.org.

Michiana African-American Chamber Holds First Annual

Spring Recognition Dinner & Dance

T. H. Holton (l) accepting award on behalf of Arlene Sisson of Smoky’s Lounge in Benton Harbor, MI., from Glenn Williams (r) of MAACC.

Adeline Wigfall of Wigfall’s Barber Shop of South Bend (l) accepts award from Glenn Williams (r) of MAACC.

April 14, 2011 • Page 11SOUTH BEND SPIRIT

HEY, SOUTH BEND -- YOUR AD COULD BE ON THIS PAGE ONLY PENNIES TO REACH THOUSANDS...THROUGH PRINT AND WEB

CALL: 2169/926-4241

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By Ralph HeibutzkiMichiana Spirit Correspondent

Looking to promote more oppor-tunities for women and minority

businesses, the South Bend Common Council has created a nine-mem-ber board dedicated to that pur-pose. Following a public hearing at Monday’s meeting, the Council adopted Substitute Bill 86-10 as an ordinance by a 9-0 vote. The language establishes a Minority and Women’s Business Enterprise Utilization Board, which will work closely with Council, administrative staff and the city’s Diversity Compliance Officer “in developing policies aimed at eliminat-ing barriers and promoting diversity,

inclusion and participation,” according to an April 7 letter on the issue.

The proposal originally came from Council Member At Large Timothy A. Rouse. “With the passage of Substitute Bill No. 86-10 the City of South Bend will have the proper mechanisms in place to maximize opportunities and participation for minority-owned busi-nesses and women-owned businesses,” the letter stated.

The new MBE/WBE Utilization Board will ensure compliance with federal state, and local laws. Progress will be documented in an MBE/WBE Participation Report, to be filed in January for the Council review and discussion. The board will also require all parties to meet every year,

“and discuss how local regulations can be improved in order to seek great effectiveness,” the letter stated. Council and the Mayor’s Office will name three members apiece, while the Chamber of Commerce gets to choose one member. The remaining seats are reserved for a South Bend resident, and the city’s public works director. All terms are for two years.

In other business, Council voted 8-1 to require anyone attending regular board and committee meetings to shut off all electronic devices, such as cell phones, mobile messengers and texting systems. Failure to shut them off will require the City Clerk to confiscate the device until the end of the meeting. Council President Derek D. Dieter

joined Members Henry Davis, Jr., Al “Buddy” Kirsits, Thomas LaFountain, Ann Puzzello, Timothy A. Rouse, David Varner and Karen L. White in supporting the measure, with Vice President Oliver J. Davis dissenting.

An April 7 memo signed by Dieter claimed that Substitute Bill 75-10’s language was necessary to keep tech-nological innovations in mind, while trying to comply with Indiana’s Open Meetings Act. However, the language does not apply to cameras, hearing aids, tape recorders or any type of communications devices that may be used by police officers and emergency first responders.

SB Common Council OKs Minority/Women Business Board

South Bend residents who need help fixing up their properties now have

an option, according to information released from the city’s Department of Community and Economic Development. The South Bend Home Improvement Program (SBHIP) pro-vides assistance for home repairs, such as roof, furnace, electrical, or plumb-ing. The SBHIP also helps with exte-rior structural repairs that will make a positive impact on the neighbor-hood. The program provides either a grant or a loan/grant combination to make needed repairs on homes. Eligibility for assistance is based upon total household income.

Applicants who are eligible for a full grant may receive up to $17,000 in repairs. If the repair cost exceeds the $17,000 grant amount, an additional $5,000 can be awarded in the form of a due-upon-sale mortgage loan. The mortgage loan that is due upon sale has no monthly payments and 0 per-cent interest; the balance is due when the home is sold, the owner no lon-ger resides in the home, or upon the owner’s death.

Applicants who are eligible for the loan/grant combination may receive up to $34,000 in repairs, with 50 percent

in the form of a grant. The interest rate of the mortgage loan is 0 percent, and the maximum term is 20 years, or 240 months. The SBHIP loan amount, plus all loans secured by the home, cannot exceed the appraised value of the home.

Eligibility Requirements Residents interested in participating

must meet several eligibility require-ments, according to the department. Properties must be located within the South Bend city limits, the applicant must own the home, and the home must be owner-occupied. Land con-tracts must have a balance of $5,000 or less.

An applicant’s qualifying income level is based on their total household income, and the number of people living in the home, as set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s income guidelines. Applicants are processed on a “first come, first served” basis. For more information on the South Bend Home Improvement Program, please call (574) 235-9660.

SB Home Improvement ProgramMakes Money Available For Repairs Most Glorious

Women’s Conference May 19-21, 2011

Registration cost is $30 per person. Dr. Pam Golliday and her guest speakers will

inspire you to live in the Glory of God.

Save the Date - Register Now!

for more details visit www.worldembassychurch.org

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Your partnership means a lot to us and our mission to Inform, Enhance,

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Call for discounted advertising to reach your community!

(269) 926-4241 - Michigan(574) 248-3935 - Indiana

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Page 12 • April 14, 2011 COMMUNITY

April 14, 2011 • Page 13COUPON

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The Douglas Company is cur-rently building the Harbor Bluffs apartments Phase II at 708 Harbor Bluffs Court, Benton Harbor, Michigan. The project includes the new construction of 36 apartment units. The Douglas Company is committed to meeting or exceeding the Section 3 goals of 24 CFP Part 135 of Title 24 – MSHDA. Section 3 reflects a commitment to hiring Section 3 residents and/or sub-contracting work to qualified Section 3 business concerns. Compliance will be demon-strated to the “greatest extent feasible” by the following method: • At least ten percent (10%) of the total dollar amount of construction related contracts awarded are to Section 3 Business Concerns.• A minimum of 30% of new hires will be qualified Section 3 residents.The order of preference for qualified Section 3 hires are as follows:• Residents of the housing development(s) for which the Section 3 covered assistance

is expended (category 1 resi-dents);• Residents of other housing developments managed by the Detroit Housing Commission (category 2 residents);• Participants in HUD Youth build programs being carried out in the Detroit metropolitan area;• Other Section 3 residents.

Resumes and qualifications for Section 3 Businesses can be emailed to harborbluffs@douglascompany.com or will be accepted during normal business hours at the construc-tion trailer located within Harbor Bluffs at 708 Harbor Bluffs Court Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022. All resumes and qualifications will be kept on file until construction of this project is completed. Qualified applicants will be notified of any future opportu-nities.

bs/ADV.April 14, 2011

REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARING

BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT PLAN205 TERRITORIAL ROAD

The City’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority respectfully requests that a Public Hearing be called for 5:30 p.m. on 27 April 2011 during which the Planning and Economic Development Committee may take pub-lic comment in regards to a proposed Brownfield Plan amendment that was prepared in response to an application submitted by Ken Clifford, on behalf of Clifford’s Perennial & Vine, who recently acquired the vacant property located at 205 Territorial Road.

Mr. Clifford’s plans call for the construction of a retail gar-den nursery, complete with a bakery, grille, and coffee bar. The estimated value of planned improvements is $450,000. Approximately 10-20 new jobs will be created over the course of the next 6-18 months having a pay range of between $8-15 per hour.

At this time, the property is vacant, undeveloped and non-productive.

Mr. Clifford seeks the sup-port of the City’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and

City Commission with regard to his company’s reimburse-ment of up to $50k in eligible expenses that it will incur deal-ing with existing contamina-tion identified at the site. Said reimbursement shall result from the increase in tax incre-ment revenues that will result exclusively from Mr. Clifford’s taxable improvements to the property. (Mr. Clifford is not considered a liable party.)

Kimberly Thompson, Acting City ClerkCity of Benton Harbor175 Territorial RoadBenton Harbor, MI 49022

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April 14, 2011 • Page 15COMMUNITY

D.A.N.K Calendar April 14 through May 31

Saturday, April 30, Dancing with DJ Sandy5 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Friday, May 6, Fish Fry6 – 8 p.m.

Saturday, May 14, Peace Officers and6 p.m. – 12 a.m. Firefighters Appreciation Dinner and Dance

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