Informing, Enhancing, Showcasing, Promotion and …bentonspiritnews.com/clients/bentonspiritnews/Jan282010.pdfCommunity Newspaper January 28, 2010 Volume 9, Number 4 Benton Harbor

Community Newspaper

January 28, 2010Volume 9, Number 4Benton HarborMichigan 49022

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Informing, Enhancing, Showcasing, Promotion and Education Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana

“My parents always told me, it is not what they call you, it is what you answer to,” stated 18-year old

Joy Joseph. After Sunday’s Ms. Benton Harbor pageant, people will now be calling Joseph by a different title -- Queen. Out of 30 beautiful and talented young women, Joseph ended up with the crown and will become the pageant's 81st queen.

Joseph, a Benton Harbor resident and a senior at St. Joseph High School, plans to study psychology at Fort Valley State University in Georgia. She is a Del-Teen, dancer with the Destiny Mime Team and president of Crunk 4 Christ at Greater Community Church of God in Christ in Benton Harbor.

The first runner-up and Miss Congeniality was 17-year old Chelsea Lynn Saleeby, from Benton Harbor, who is a senior at Berrien Springs High School.

Second runner-up was 18-year old Crystal Sade Carter, of Benton Harbor, a senior at St. Joseph High School. Carter was also named Ms. Entrepreneur.

Rounding the Ms. Benton Harbor court includes Sakiya Hardin and Erika Stigall.

Last Saturday, Justine Williams was crowned Mr. Benton Harbor. His court consisted of Anthony Barney, first runner-up; Sean Mitchell, second runner-up; and DeCorey Holmes, Darnell Johnson II rounding out the court, along with Davion Crump-McClain, Mr. Entrepreneur.

Williams and Joseph will represent Benton Harbor at the Blossomtime Pageant. More on the Mr. and Mrs. Benton Harbor pageants will be premiered in the next edi-tion of the Benton Spirit.

This year’s sold out pageant was at the Benton Harbor High School. Winners of the raffle were: Helen Thomas, first prize winner; Cameron London, second prize winner; and Mammie Davis, third prize winner.

Congratulations to all of the contestants!

Meet Mr. and Ms. Benton HarborJustin Williams and Joy Joseph

Ms. Benton Harbor Court (l-r): Sakiya Hardin, finalist; Krystal Carter, second runner up; Joy Joseph, Ms. Benton Harbor Queen; Chelsea Saleeby, first runner up; and Erika Stigall, finalist.

In the Benton Spirit's continu-ous effort to improve the qual-ity and distribution of your com-munity newspaper, information to the Benton Spirit need to be submitted one (1) week prior to our weekly Thursday distribution date, for consideration.

We are willing to make excep-tions for paid advertisements and/or information.

Adhering to these guidelines ena-bles us to produce the quality newspaper we aim for and you deserve.

Your cooperation and understand-ing is appreciated.

• MAIL Benton Spirit

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Benton Harbor, MI 49023

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Events to be included in our

EVENTS CALENDAR:

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BENTON SPIRITSUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Benton Spirit Community NewspaperP.O. Box 465Benton Harbor, MI 49023

Tel: (269) 926-4241 Fax: (269) 925-4540

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WHERE TO SEND INFORMATION TO THE

BENTON SPIRIT?

Page 2 • January 28, 2010PUBLISHER'S PAGE

Advertise TODAY!Call

(269) 926-4241

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Benton Harbor, MI 49022Telephone: 269/926-4241

Fax: 269/925-4540www.bentonspiritnews.com

The Benton Spirit Community Newspaper is published every Thursday.

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

We prefer information to be submitted by e-mail to:[email protected] 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, every Thursday. On-line 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.

Publisher - Princella TobiasCo-Editors - Desmond Murray, PhDAdministrator - Patrica 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, Bob Elliott, Candrice Williams, Greg Osmun, Linda Strohl, and Richard Williams.

Advertising Sales - Princella Tobias

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

We don’t quit. By Princella Tobias, Founding Publisher

We don’t quite. We won’t quit. We must seize this moment!

Those were the last words by President Barack Obama during his State of the Union Address on Wednesday, January 27, 2010.

Those words pierced straight to my heart. For it was just that Wednesday morning, I was talking on the telephone with a friend, asking myself, “Why am I still doing this newspaper?” Why don’t I return to other places and spaces where I have found life easier. Why, oh Lord do I keep on?"

Is this your story too? I’m sure it is.

But, we find something, some-one, that sparks our spirit, and keeps us going, and not allow us to quit.

One spark for me was last Sunday at the Ms. Benton Harbor Pageant. Absolutely wonderful! What the attending crowd witnessed was more than the beauty of the young women who walked that stage; it was intel-ligence, promise, a future that will make us proud.

What Reinaldo Tripplett and team do to transform those young women, in such a short time, is close to miraculous. Seriously!

I personally knew a young woman who competed years ago and believe me, she was nowhere near queen material. She knew it; her mother knew it, for it was no secret. But, she was determined, and, she had Reinaldo Tripplett. On the day of the pageant, I thought I was dream-ing. In just a few months, this young woman, along with more than adozen others, had blossomed in more ways than imaginable. Today, she is in col-lege, and soon going on to graduate school.

These young ladies and men (Mr. Benton Harbor contestants) are determined and there is so much work that goes into these pageants.

We, the audience, simply show up; hands clapping, voices cheering, and wanting our babies to win the crown. All of the contestants are winners and I am here to say what so many will not say, Mr. Reinaldo Tripplett is one of the biggest winners.

No, Reinaldo wins no crown. Some may even say unkind things about him, not totally understand-ing all it takes to turn our babies into young women in only a few months. To many, Reinaldo is their mother and father, friend and mentor, because he challenges our youth and community to excel.

Reinaldo Tripplett, I applaud you. You make our community shine. Taking hits from the right and left, but still you stand tall like a fighting tiger and you have not quit.

It reminds me of the Thanksgivng dinner that mothers and big mommas (yes, and a few good men) spend all day, and sometimes days, pre-paring for us to enjoy the delicious Thanksgiving Dinner. But, after eat-ing too much, watching football, and eating more, do we ever think about what all goes into the preparation of that great meal? It is not as easy as many of us think.

Do we think about what goes into the Ms. Benton Harbor pageant? If we did, or even knew, we would be applauding all contestants and Reinaldo Tripplet.

Too much is given; much is required.

Community, I ask you to stop hating and starting participating. To look beyond a few faults and seek higher vision of what tomorrow can bring by working hard and not quit-ting.

I ask you to do what 30 young women did last Sunday -- to not quit, and BELIEVE!

Visit our Website: www.bentonspiritnews.com

Invest in OUR

Community!Your Tax Deductible Donation Could be a Good Step in Empowering our Community

CALL (269) 926-4241

Page 3 • January 28, 2010 OPINION

BENTON SPIRIT SEEKS WRITERSAre you an “experienced” writer?

We need you for various assignments. Please send resume, samples of published articles, price per story/rate, to:

E-mail to: [email protected] to Benton Spirit Newspaper

P.O. Box 465, Benton Harbor, MI 49023

By Trenton BowensSpirit Correspondent___________________

Help Our Brothers And Sisters Around The World

I am going on tour! You heard me, I am starting a conversation with

the every day citizens that can barely afford to pay the heating bills and rent! For far too long, I have seen the same thing: people helping themselves, not helping the people. Whatever happened to the ConnectUP fund, for instance? My mission is to create a documentary (print and video), and send it out. It’s about time you have been heard. You’re no longer invisible!! More information about this tour will be given out as my team and I continue planning it!

Furthermore, I encourage you all to donate money to any organization that that is overseeing relief efforts for the citizens of Haiti. PLEASE DO SO, I DID. It is urgent that we help our brothers and sisters across the world. You can donate to the Red Cross, The Clinton/Bush Haiti fund, and Doctors Without Borders. All donations are tax deductible!!!

Grab your book -- the book that I'm recommending for February is entitled The Conversation. This book is highly recommended, and provides real talk about relationships and things to con-sider. I have read the book once, and plan on reading it again! You don’t want to miss out on this month’s book, which you can purchase at Wal-Mart, Borders, and Amazon.com.

Please pray for our city leaders and God Bless you all!

Ready To Tour (And Listen To The People)

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By Kevin Hunter-KeyGuest Columnist___________________

What up FAM! It’s been a minute

since I wrote anything. Just didn’t have the energy for it. But, as always when I need to be rejuvenated I find myself looking to home.

This time when I peeked in, I learned that Darwin Watson had been hired as Interim City Manager, and Roger Lange had been hired as Chief of Police. That’s what’s up! I’m talking about “local tal-ent”, “homegrown” and “grassroots” all rolled into one. Not that I could lend credence to anyone; but Darwin is a very smart and humble man. He has been about his business since high school, and you know “Roger D” has looked after the children from way back in the day. Even me, when I first met him at Fairplain Jr. High. He taught me so much. It wasn’t until I got “grown” that I lost the line of focus I had been given to me by Roger and so many others.

You couldn’t believe how excited I am to hear of these two brothers being given the opportunity to lead and assist in the changes taking place in Da Harba! Do you remember back in “your day”, going to a party or a club and jamming to the music the two of them

used to play? They have always been righteous. Darwin used his degree in Communications to help make the radio station the real deal. Do you remember when the Chief started a chapter of the Guardian Angels? C’mon now! I will grasp the theme of the Ms. Benton Harbor Pageant: “I BELIEVE!” I believe in the City Manager and I believe in the Chief. I BELIEVE in BENTON HARBOR!

Belief is first, and is what we think perhaps is true. Then after seeing consistency we begin to have faith. I have FAITH that these two men and the new commission have the ability and desire to affect change within the city. I have faith that Benton Harbor will rise, and once again be the hub of Southwest Michigan with all the trap-pings and pageantry. I hope you do too, because together we can bring all of the grandiose ideas for Benton Harbor to fruition.

Speaking of the pageantry, I heard the Ms. Benton Harbor Pageant was incredible: the band; the performances. Benton Harbor is loaded with talented people. Given the opportunity, there is nothing that people can’t accomplish. But first, you must BELIEVE! Stay up! Stay Strong!

“I Believe in Benton Harbor”

By: Tim Johnson, Building a Better

Benton Harbor Master Electrician, Guest Columnist_______________

What if...to keep kids in school,

they could get excit-ed about remodeling a house with licensed tradesmen and make the students appren-tices?

What if…we could hire licensed mechanics to teach our youth enough about vehicles? Then our now-skilled graduates can work in a garage or start his or her own auto business after graduation.

What if…when the kids aren’t in shop, or on a construction site, they could be learning the various code books or repair manuals to pre-pare for certifications?

I believe the person who knows “how” will always have a job, while the person who knows “why” can become a boss/supervisor.

Not every kid is cut out for col-lege and not every kid is good with his/her hands, but we must keep them in school where they can discern what direction they’re to go.

Many opportunities are in Benton Harbor and many more will become available, but they are not going to be wrapped in a pretty bow. Some of these jobs will be by people wear-ing overalls and may look like actual work. However, the opportunities of training and education need to be taken advantage of. We owe it to our kids to make them aware of those opportunities. We owe them an edu-cation they can use.

What if…as we look around our community and see the physi-cal changes -- all of us – our youth, neighbors, and folks we know are participants in those changes?

Building a Better Benton Harbor

Tim Johnson, standing next to his van that he had the BBBS statement painted on to motivate Benton Harbor

Page 4 • January 28, 2010 YOUTH

Visit our Website: www.ben-

Benton Harbor Public Library213 East Wall StreetBenton Harbor, MI(269) 926-6139www.bentonharborlibrary.com

Raccoon Reading Time, featur-ing bedtime stories for young children, will meet every Monday evening from 6-6:45 p.m. There will also be a short movie and craft activity.

Tax volunteers will be at the Library each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., through April 15, to assist people with their taxes on a first-come, first-served basis.

Curious Kids’ Museum Discovery Zone333 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI (269) 983-2543www.curiouskidsmuseum.org

New Opening: The Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone has a lot to offer. Come check out new exhibits through-out the exhibit zone.

• January 2 to May 17, 2010—Shared Waters: Explore area history with 30 panels of explorers, Indians, Pottawatomie Indian Village, 16 foot birch bark canoe, giant Teepee, kid’s canoe and more.

• February 20 to Labor Day 2010:Grossology, The Impolite Science of the Human Body with 12 hands-on exhibits like: Burp Man, Nigel Nose-it-all and more.

• Low-Cot Winter Escape: Great place rain, shine or snow!

One Tank Trip!Curious Kids’ Museum: Over 100

exhibits in Science, History, Culture & Technology. Some exhibits include: The Bubble Chamber, Apple Orchard, Toddler Farm, African cultural exhibit, Rainforest Room, Jr. Builders, face painting, Kid Power (electric slide), Radio DJ booth, TV broadcasting, gears, body works area, ship, dinosaur area, skin color exhibit, What If, and much more!

All programs are FREE with the Museum admission of just $4 per per-son for ages 1 and up. In the fall and

winter, Curious Kids’ Museum is open Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m, and from Noon - 5 p.m. on Sunday. The Museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

• WEE DiscoveryWednesday, Feb. 10, 10:30 a.m.

– Clifford’s First Valentine…Make val-entines with lots of hearts and glitter. This program held every Wednesday features discovery stories and make-and-take-home activities for young children accompanied by an adult. Based on the concepts of “Mother Goose Science” for young children, Wee Discover helps children discover the world around them by reading a different story each week with hands-on learning experi-ences about different themes. Children exercise body motion, hand-eye coordi-nation and grasp the many ways things in the world around us really work by experiencing them. Parents enjoy shar-ing this experience with their children and meeting other parents.

Applications now available for 2010 Southwest Michigan’s

Prince, Princess and Pre-teen Programs

The Southwest Michigan Scholarship Program now has three instructional programs for boys and girls ages 7-12. These three pro-grams are the first step to learning about pageantry. We teach them about involvement in their com-munity along with love, respect, encouragement and honor of them-selves and others.

Entry forms are now available for the 2010 Southwest Michigan’s Prince & Princess Programs. $1000 in scholarships and gifts will be given away. There are three phases of competition. The first phase is interview, which counts for 60%, the second phase is formal Wear which counts for 30%, and the third phase is the on-stage question which counts for 10% of the contestant’s score. The program is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, at 2 p.m. and will be held at the Watervliet High School Auditorium. Boys and girls interested must be 6-9 years of age, living in the Greater Southwest Michigan area for not less than six months.

Also available are entry forms for the 2010 Southwest Michigan’s Pre-Teen Program. $1000 in schol-

arships and gifts will be given away. There are four phases of competi-tion. The first phase is interview which counts for 50%, the second phase is evening wear which counts for 25%, the third phase is active wear which counts for 20%, and the fourth phase is the on-stage ques-tion which counts for 5% of the contestant’s score.

The program is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m. at Watervliet High School Auditorium. Young women interested must be 10-12 years of age, living in the Greater Southwest Michigan area for not less than six months.

During their year of service, the new representatives will be expect-ed to involve themselves by volun-teering in the community. They will also be promoting the Southwest Michigan Scholarship Program and our supporters/sponsors.

For an entry packet, visit: www.misssouthwestmichigan.org. Click on Program i)nfo and then click on “To be a Contestant”. or call (269) 428-4999. Deadline for all entry forms to be returned will be February 6, 2010.

Youth Events Activities

Providing a safe, fun place to gather dur-ing the holidays -- this was the back-

drop for Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries' New Year's Eve Youth Celebration, which ran from 5 to 8 p.m. on December 31, 2009.

Fourth- to eighth-grade students enrolled in HHUM Programs were treated to an evening of dancing, eating and hanging out with their invited guests. The

HHUM Communication team planned the gathering to emphasize that youth social events can be safe and nonviolent.

The party ended with all the par-ticipants in a circle, toasting the new year with plastic champagne flute glasses of sparkling apple cider juice.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/HHUMCommTeam or www.hhum.comcastbiz.net.

Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries New Year’s Eve Youth Party

Prince, Princess and Pre-Teen Applications Available

Invest in the

Future!Sponsor a Page •Education Page•Children’s Page • Health Page • Science Page • Senior Citizen’s Page• Community Page • History Page • Spiritual Focus Page

Knowledge is Power!Partner with the SPIRIT to Empower our Community

Through Media Technology.

Your Donation Could be Tax Deductible.

CALL (269) 926-4241

Mentor/Tutor a Child

TODAY!

Call SOCRATES(269) 757-1641


Page 5 • January 28, 2010 EDUCATION

When Andrews University told Lovanzo Booker on December

30, 2009, that he had passed the National GED exam, there was great joy. “I had confidence that he could do it!” exclaimed his mother, Nancy Ramsey.

Lovanzo had to drop out of school in the twelfth grade in order to lift and carry his mother, and assist her, after she was stricken with Myasthenia Gravis (MG), a debilitating condition where the body's muscles collapse without warning. Lavonzo and his older sister, Ashley, help their mother care for herself. They also assist with household chores, which their mother can no longer do.

Lovanzo attended the URBAN CHOICE GED Tutoring/Prep Program in the Blossom Acre Housing Development for six weeks. His goal is to become an auto mechanic. Lovanzo plans to enroll this spring at Southwestern Michigan College, in Dowagiac. “He just needed a little brushing up on his skills. He was pretty determined,” URBAN CHOICE teacher Toni Doswell said.

URBAN CHOICE began in Benton Harbor on October 5, 2009. The pro-gram is free and ongoing. Anyone 17-60 can participate. Classes are held from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday, in the Blossom Acres

Community Center Building, 1216 Blossom Lane (off Highland Avenue, across the street from the Boys and Girls Club).

Doswell would like to see more participants take advantage of this free program, which is designed to help anyone who wants to get their GED diploma. “It takes prayer, hard work, and determination to be successful in getting a GED. I praise God for Lovanzo's success,” she said.

Priority Deadline Approaches for LMC Scholarship Applications

The Lake Michigan College (LMC) Foundation has announced that

five new scholarships for the 2010-2011 academic year will be available to LMC students, raising the total number of available scholarships to more than 100. Many of the scholar-ships, which include privately-funded and institutional awards, will be dis-tributed to multiple recipients.

Scholarship applications for the 2010-11 academic year are now being accepted. The deadline for appli-cations is March 1, 2010. Students should apply by this deadline to receive full consideration; however, applica-tions will continue to be accepted after that based on the availability of scholarships.

Scholarship awards serve sever-al purposes – to recognize academic achievement, provide financial assis-tance, encourage adults to start or continue a college education or assist current LMC students who have dem-onstrated academic excellence, defined as 3.0 GPA or higher.

Complete information regarding each of the scholarships is available by visiting the Lake Michigan College web site at www.lakemichigancollege.edu/scholarships or by contacting the Department of Financial Aid at (269) 927-8112.

Students may apply by submitting an on-line application at the website or by obtaining an application form from the Financial Aid Department and mailing it to 2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022.

Berrien Community Foundation Scholarship Applications

The Berrien Community Foundation has announce that the 2010 appli-

cations are available for its various scholarship programs made possible by several donors.

Berrien County graduating high school seniors are encouraged to visit www.berriencommunity.org,

Scholarships, for a complete list of available scholarships and criteria. Applications for many of these schol-arships programs are available for downloading on this Web page.

Berrien County high school coun-seling offices will receive a limited number of copies of these applica-tions around February 1. Students may check with these offices as well.

Applications are due March 8, 2019. Decisions will be announced in early May on the same web site.

For more information, call (269) 983-3304, ext. 2.

TWIN CITY PLAYERS SCHOLARSHIP AVAILABLE AT BERRIEN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

Twin City Players announces that

application forms for the 2010 Brian Swiger Memorial Scholarship are now available at all Berrien County high schools. Students wishing to apply should contact their counselors.

Established by Twin City Players in 1996 in memory of former member Brian Swiger, the $1,000 scholarship is earmarked for seniors graduating from Berrien County high schools who have demonstrated a strong interest in theater-related activities during their grade school and high school careers. Winners, however, can use the award money to pursue any field of study at any accredited college, university, trade school or arts education institu-tion.

Applications also can be obtained by calling the Twin City Players at (269) 429-0400, requesting an applica-tion and leaving your name, address and phone number. Applications should be mailed to Twin City Players, Box 243, St. Joseph, MI 49085 or hand deliv-ered to the TCP Playhouse at 600 W. Glenlord Road in St. Joseph, and must be received no later than March 31, 2010. The winner will be announced in late May or early June, 2010.

For more information about TCP, call (269) 429-0400 or visit us at www.twincityplayers.org.

Scholarship Opportunities Benton Spirit’s Excellence Recipient of the MOnth

• MR. LOVANZO BOOKER •

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FIRST URBAN CHOICE G.E.D. GRADUATE

With over 3,800 colleges and uni-versities in the United States, the

process of selecting a college can be daunting for families. Not only do they need to make decisions based on cost, programs offered and the overall fit of the college with their child’s personal-ity, there are other issues to consider such as the admissions process, apply-ing for financial aid, finding scholar-ships and more.

To give parents the tools they need to be knowledgeable about the process no matter where they plan to send their child, Lake Michigan College is hosting College: The Next Big Step – A Workshop for Parents on Monday, February 15, in the Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall on the Napier Avenue Campus. The workshop begins at 6:30 p.m.

Topics will include the hows and

whys of financial aid including grants, loans and scholarships; college selec-tion; admissions applications and standardized tests; career services and transfer options from two-year to four-year schools.

To reserve a seat at this free event, parents can pre-register online at www.lakemichigancollege.edu/bigstep or contact Cindy Reuss at (269) 927-8100 ext. 5036.

LMC to Hold Information Workshop for Parents of College-Bound Students

MENTORING MONTH

“Mentor Today . . . Change a Life Forever!”

Contact Socrates

(269) 471-6087 or 757-1641

[email protected]

Lovanzo Booker

Page 6 • January 28, 2010 BUSINESS


By Linda Strohl, Guest Columnist_____________________________

It’s a new year and with the economy so challenging, it’s a good time

to try to learn new ways to market your business or yourself, build new business relationships and be more productive! In looking for free or low cost ways to build our skills, we came across the following free webinars available through Office Depot and thought they were too good not to share! Go to www.officedepot.com/webcafe to register.

February 2, 201010 Marketing Ideas for Under $100 • Make relationships count • Be creative on a dime • How to create a memorable experience for your

This is a 60-minute webinar presented by Nancy Michaels, CEO and Founder, Grow Your Business Network.

Nancy Michaels, CEO and Founder of Grow Your Business Network, is a globally recognized business develop-ment coach, author, speaker and con-sultant to both women business own-ers, as well as to companies targeting women. Her specialty is helping her clients -- both small business own-ers and large corporations -- grow up without spending a fortune, as well as to land and maintain long-term client relationships through creative, innova-tive and strategic sales and marketing strategies that distinguish them from their competitors.

February 9, 2010 Organize Your Small Business, Save Time & Money • Get back to business! Get your finances in order for 2010 and be ready for tax time. • Learn how to save time and money managing your business • Gain insights on where your business is most profitable This 60-minute webinar is presented by Intuit Product Expert.

In addition to providing personal finance software, Intuit has been a supporter of small business for over 25 years. They are now expanding their efforts to help small businesses thrive.

own us for providing easy financial software; now we offer fast and easy online marketing services, web hosting and website builder services, payroll services, and credit card processing as well. And we're just getting started! We're developing new services all the time — visit IntuitLabs to see some of our latest innovations.

February 16 Creating a Winning Team of Talent

• Clues to recognizing the need to hire

• How to build a talented team • Learn how to profile roles and

write accurate job descriptions • Design targeted job ads that

attract the right people • Develop a hiring strategy.... and

why that is important • Get great interviewing tips you

can use in your business This 60-minute webinar is pre-

sented by Alicia Marie, President and Founder of Profit Consulting Co.

Ms. Marie is President and Founder of Profit Consulting Co., a national leader in the field of coaching and training for small business owners. For over a decade, she has coached manag-ers, presidents and sales professionals on how to build businesses truly worth having. Through her business, Profit Consulting Co., Alicia has developed comprehensive tools and programs to support and educate business owners and professionals. To learn more, visit www.profitconsultingco.com .

Linda K. Strohl, CFP, is Founder and Principal of LK Strohl & Associates, LLC. She brings a wide ranging knowledge of business and non-prof-it management to her consultancy, which focuses on developing strong individual and corporate business skills and sustainability for non-prof-its.

Founded and headquar-tered in our own back-

yard, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, it is good to know what the Whirlpool Corporation, the world's leading appliance maker, is doing to give customers an edge, stay competitive, and have an insight where technology and the environment is concern.

Below is a brief summary of what is happening at Whirlpool:

Online Consumer Tool For “Cash for Appliances” Rebate Program

Whirlpool Corporation, the world's leading appliance maker, is continuing to lead in energy efficiency with the launch of an easy-to-use rebate finder tool on three of its brand Web sites (Whirlpool, Maytag and KitchenAid). The tool is intended to help consumers make the most of the “Cash for Appliances” rebate program.

The news, which Whirlpool recently posted on its website, comes on the heels of a busy 2009 fourth quarter for the company – which included announcements about innovative new kitchen and laundry prod-ucts, an award for its learning programs, and its fourth quarter earning results.

“Cash for Appliances” is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, a Department of Energy (DOE) program providing nearly $300 million to fund state-run rebate programs for consumer purchases of new ENERGY STAR(R)-qualified appliances.

By entering a local zip code and appli-ance type, the online tool instantly informs consumers of the amount of applicable state rebates through the federal program. The rebate finder will also provide infor-mation on rebates from a consumer's local utility company, if available.

Visit http://www.whirlpool.com/, http://www.maytag.com/ or http://www.kitchenaid.com/ for more details. For state-by-state information, visit the federal site, http://www.energysavers.gov/ and click on “state appliance rebate program.”

Learning And Development Programs Recognized

Whirlpool Corporation has been recognized as a 2009 American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) BEST Award winner. The BEST Awards recognize organizational commitment to employee learning.

Whirlpool was recognized for align-ing learning and development programs with its overall strategy and performance goals. The company launched a team-based leadership development program focused on solving key business issues with clear short-term and long-term goals and objectives. The program ran from 2007 to 2009.

ASTD is the world's largest associa-tion dedicated to the training and develop-

ment field. ASTD's members come from more than 100 coun-tries and connect locally in 130 U.S. chapters and with 30 International Partners. For infor-

mation, visit http://www.astd.org/.

Latest Kitchen, Laundry Innovations Fulfill Consumer Needs

More than 80 percent of consumers cook for their guests when entertaining, according to a November online survey conducted for Whirlpool, but many strug-gle to reduce time, energy and overall kitchen messes. To help consumers bet-ter manage their kitchens, Whirlpool has introduced several f kitchen appliances to increase efficiency, including:

• Industry-exclusive MicroEtch(TM) Spill Control Shelves, which prevents leaks and makes it easier to clean refrigerators than ever before.

• The Resource Saver(TM) double oven range, which is the most resource-efficient, easiest to clean model yet.

• Whirlpool brand dishwashers, which now feature the tallest tub available in its class, and fit up to 12 place settings.

While cooking, consumers eliminate steam and odors with new 30- and 36-inch glass canopy range hoods. Cooks can adjust between three speeds to match their habits in the kitchen, while dishwasher-safe filters trap grease with ease.

• Notable laundry innovations include the newest Cabrio(R) high efficiency (HE) top-load washer and dryer, which offers the largest washer capacity on the market. Cabrio(R) uses a low-water wash system that uses less water per load, yet delivers better cleaning performance and is more gentle than a traditional top-load washing machine.

The high-efficiency, ENERGY STAR(R) qualified Maytag Performance Series washer, which is designed to control odors, and make re-washing of neglected laundry a thing of the past. The machine uses Maytag Dynamic Venting Technology, which will provide years of reliability, powerful cleaning and fresh laundry.

Proven Strategy Generates Marketable Intellectual Property

Whirlpool Corporation was named to the 2009/2010 Ocean Tomo 300 Patent Index(TM), the first equity index based on the value of corporate intellectual prop-erty, for the fourth consecutive year. The Index is priced and published by the NYSE Euronext.

"We are pleased Whirlpool has once again been named to this Index, which assigns real value to intellectual capital and innovation," said Jeff M. Fettig, Whirlpool Corporation's chairman and CEO.

FREE WEBINARS Media Technology to Help Your Business

This information was sponsored by BEST (Building Excellence in Science and Technology) in their commitment in helping commu-nities become their best through media technology.

For more information on BEST, visit www.bestearly.com

The Latest at Whirlpool

LK STROHL & ASSOCIATES, LLCNon-Profit Consulting

269/426-4647 • [email protected]

Focusing on Your MissionFundraising • Grantwriting and Grants Manager •

Management Consulting • Board Development and more.

Page 7 • January 28, 2010 GOVERNMENT


On behalf of the City of Benton Harbor, Mayor Wilce L. Cooke is encouraging dedicated

citizens to join several committees to participate in the revitalization of Benton Harbor. If interested, please visit the the Mayor’s Office, City Hall, 200 West Wall Street, Benton Harbor, Second Floor,

Benton Harbor, MI. or call (269) 927-8400, for an application. Please note, seats are limited.

Deadline for the first round of board positions is February 1, 2010. Boards and committees are volunteer positions. For more information, contact Ms. Zenzilla Muhammad in the Mayor’s Office at (269) 927-8400.

Reminder:Benton Harbor Citizens

Encourged to Join Committees and Board

PERSONNEL & FINANCE COMMITTEEPUBLIC SAFETY & RECREATION COMMITTEELEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE COMMITTEEPLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEECOMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEEAIRPORT BOARD B.H./ST. JOSEPH JOINT WASTEWATERBENTON HARBOR HOUSING COMMISSIONBENTON HARBOR LIBRARY BOARDDOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY BOARD (DDA)

BOARD OF REVIEWBROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT BOARDCEMETERY BOARDCIVIL SERVICE BOARDHOUSING COMMISSIONPLANNING COMMISSION SENIOR CITIZEN BOARDBENTON HARBOR HOUSING APPEALS GENERAL PENSION BOARDDIAL-A-RIDE BOARD

Below is a list of committees and boards:

Location:Citizens for World Class Community 175 Main St., Benton Harbor, MI 49022

KICK-OFF: Saturday, January 30 • 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

FUTURE DATES: Tuesday & Thursday: 4 - 8 p.m. February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, and April 1, 8, 13.

Saturday: 9 a.m, - 1 p,m. February 6, 20, March 6, 20, and April 3.

Reach - ConnectThrough the

Benton Spirit Community Newspaper

• Advertise• Sponsor a Page• Share your story• Write a column

• Tell others

Benton Spirit...Informing, Enhancing, Showcasing,

Promoting and EducatingSouthwest Michigan/Northern Indiana

(269) 926-4241 www.bentonspiritnews.com

YOUTH OF 49022Page 8 • January 28, 2010


© Michigan Works! BCVB 0110Michigan Works! is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Michigan Relay Center: 1-800-649-3777 Voice and TDD. Funding provided by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth.

1-800-533-5800 • miworks.orgBenton Harbor • Buchanan • Dowagiac • Niles • Paw Paw • South Haven

Benton Harbor MW! open lab scehdule: M-Th, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

All Michigan Works! services are free.

“Exceeding the loving and car-ing ministry of Jesus Christ” is

what the the newly erected banner at 275 Pipestone St. in Benton Harbor states. U n d e r n e a t h the sign is wor-ship informa-tion for Peace Temple United M e t h o d i s t Church, a congregation that will offi-cially disband as a local con-gregation at the 2010 West Michigan Conference. Although the final wor-ship service was held on June 28, 2009, lives are still being impacted through the weekly program offered through Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries, spearheaded by Rev. Sandra Douglas, Executive Director, and team. The staff has been preparing for the 2010 Summer Exploration Program.

Douglas has helped to develop a vision plan for the building's future use, and she is holding bi-weekly sessions

to share with Kalamazoo D i s t r i c t c l e r g y , Leadership m e m b e r s and local r e s i d e n t s from the community of Benton H a r b o r . R s i d e n t s , pastors and

business owners are invited to pre-sentations at noon on Wednesday, February 3, or at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 6. For more information, or additional questions, call Douglas at (269) 926-4214. To learn more about Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries, visit them at www.facebook.com/HHUMCommTeam, or www.hhum.comcastbiz.net.

Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries Continues Presence in Benton Harbor

“I have a dream that my four little

children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. “--Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I dream to become a doctor, teacher,

lawyer, pilot, fireman, policeman, nurse, build houses, chef, own my own business”...were some of the responses from Benton Harbor youth who attended “I Have a Dream, Too” Celebration, in honor of Martin Luther King Day last Monday, January 18, hosted by Excel Development and Growth Center.

Youth also spoke on their dream of what they wanted to see in their community and enjoyed a day filled of activities, speeches, food.

For more informa-tion Excel Development or to find out about other Excel events, contact Excel Development and Growth Center at 326 East Main Street, downtown Benton Harbor or call (269) 759-9396.

Photo credit: Benton Spirit/C. Williams.

Youth Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s Day

“I Have a Dream, Too!”

January 28, 2010 • Page 9 POST MLK


During the 15th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at the Mendel Center for Arts

and Technology, Lake Michigan College presented its Ninth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Diversity Award to Michigan Works! Berrien Cass Van Buren. Accepting the award on behalf of MI Works! Was Executive Director, Todd Gustafson.

Michigan Works! Berrien-Cass-Van Buren is a non-profit organization that provides work-force development services throughout Southwest Michigan. They have made it their mission to ensure that local businesses of all sizes have access to a skilled and diverse workforce. Their pro-grams include business staffing and recruitment assistance, personalized career mapping, youth in-school and out-of-school career preparation services and adult education. Annually, Michigan Works serves more than 28,000 tri-county jobseekers possessing a vast array of skills and work experience.

Lake Michigan College partners with Michigan Works on several programs, including the Jobs for America’s

Graduates initiative. In this program and in other capaci-ties, the College employs more than 55 employees who assist Michigan Works clients.

Pat Moody, (L-R) Trustee of LMC, with award recipient, Todd Gustafson, Executive Director of Michigan Works!

Michigan Works! Receives LMC Diversity Award

Three very different kinds of educators were hon-

ored at the 2010 Legacy of Freedom Awards, part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Andrews University. This year’s con-vocation and awards presen-tation was held on Sunday, Jan. 17, in the Seminary Chapel at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University.

Edwin Hernandez, research fellow for the University of Notre Dame’s

Institute for Latino Research in the Center for the Study of Latino Religion and research direc-tor for the DeVos Family Foundation of Grand Rapids, was the keynote speaker. His presentation was titled, “Keepers of the Dream: The Role of a Christian University in Race Relations.”

Hernandez challenged the audience to answer the call as keepers of the dream through working to change the achievement gap within our private and public educational system. “Perhaps no other

issue is as critical to the future of our country—and to realizing the dream of social equal-ity—than edu-cation. The achievement

gap is the civil rights issue of our day—a funda-mentally moral issue—demanding our attention, our minds and all of our energies.”

Bill Richardson, interim provost, presented this year’s Freedom Awards to local educator Charlotte Groff, The Mildred C. Wells Academy of Benton Harbor and Gateway of Berrien Springs. The Legacy of Freedom Award recognizes indi-viduals or organizations who exemplify King’s values of civility and equality.

Groff, over the nearly five decades of her classroom teaching career, has creatively and energetically applied educational strategies to transform minds and redeem humanity. Her work in education has contributed to the success of thousands of students in the Michigan Migrant Program; Benton Harbor, St. Joseph and Coloma schools; Lake Michigan College and Andrews University.

Renene Price, school leader, accepted on behalf of the Mildred C. Wells Academy (MCWA), which was founded in 2005 in Benton Harbor to address America’s most urgent civil rights issue: the comprehensive education of all children. Today, this unique learning environment consists of 181 students in grades K–12, 37 highly qualified adults, and a host of supportive parents, volunteers and board members.

Mary Lee Moore, executive director, accepted the award on behalf of Gateway. Established in 1974 in Berrien Springs, Gateway engages the efforts of committed local citizens to provide vocational training opportunities for special-needs children and adults. Gateway’s mission statement is “to improve the quality of life and level of inde-pendence of individuals with disabilities and bar-riers through vocational opportunities, therapeutic services, training and other supports.”

Educators Honored with a Legacy of Freedom Award

Tell the Benton Spirit of a person in your community who you feel should be honored during Black History Month (February).

E-mail: [email protected]

Fax: (269) 925-4540

Mail: Benton Spirit Newspaper

P.O. Box 465Benton Harbor, MI 49023

Send us your name, address, telephone number, along with your recommendation.

They could be featured in the February edition of the Benton Spirit Community Newspaper.

Top photo: (L-R) Bill Richardson, Andrews Interim Provost; Niels-Erik Andreasen, Andrews President; Renene Price, Freedom Award recipient; and Joseph Warren, associate professor of English and a member of the MLK Planning Committee at Andrews. MIddle photo: L-R: Mary Lee Moore, executive director of Gateway; Charlotte Groff, an educator; and Renene Price, school leader, Mildred C. Wells Academy. Bottom right photo: Dr. Desmond Murray, Professor of Chemistry at Andrews and director of Socrates AfterSchool Tutoring Program, encouraging students to volunteer for Socrates. Bottom left photo: Andrews University student providing entertainment during the event.

Page 10 • January 28, 2010 SPIRITUAL FOCUS

God I Need to Hear From YouBy: The Reverend Dr. Michael C. Carson, Spirit Columnist

“And he said, Go forth,

and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but

the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, “What doest thou here, Elijah?” 1 Kings 19:11-13

Here are some questions asked of God: “Is this the job you want me to have?” “Is this the person you want me to be with?” “When will my finances improve?” “When will my life change for the better?” “Why can’t I seem to get ahead?” “Why is life so hard right now?” “When will I overcome my addic-tion?” “Will my family member/friend be all right?”

We ask God questions concerning the meaning of life, love, work, family, health, and wealth and await God’s reply. But sometimes it seems as if God did not hear us. We might ask, “So God, if the day of miracles is not yet gone, where is my miracle?” “God, if you are still bless-ing, why can’t I see it or feel it? “God, if you are concerned with me, why isn’t my question being answered?”

God is speaking to you right now! Listen with faith and you'll hear from God in God’s time. God loves us and

wants to guide and protect us. God will speak to us even when we don't feel like answering.

Elijah is in a state of melancholy. He fled Israel to escape Jezebel's wrath. He reaches Beersheba heading out into the wilderness praying for death to deliv-er him.

Elijah falls into a deep sleep. An angel appears, forcing the prophet to eat and drink, and then to set out on a 40-day journey to Mount Sinai (God was speaking right then). There, God himself pays Elijah a visit, but not in the manner

Elijah thought God was going to speak to him. When wanting an answer from God, be clear it might come in a manner totally

opposite than we expect. God spoke to Elijah (1 Kings 19:13-

18). We are never out of God’s reach. The Psalmist asks, concerning God, “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?” (Psalm 139:7)

We are called to trust in God, even when it appears that God is being silent in our life. No matter what is or is not happening in your life, God has been and always will be with you.

So, my friend, I urge you to press on having faith and keep communicating with God. There is always a word from the Lord for you and yours.

Peace with justice, be blessed real good, attend worship, and fami-lies matter.

The Rev. Dr. Michael C. Carson is pastor of Union Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church in Benton Harbor, MI, and Religion Columnist for the Benton Spirit Community Newspaper.

“Where is my miracle?”

Serving Congregate and Home Delivered Meals throughoutBerrien, Cass and Van Buren Counties

1708 Colfax Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022

1-800-722-5392 or 1-269-925-0137“Caring people providing food and friendship”

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“Let Our Wheels Deliver Your Meals!”

and Van Buren County

Working Together With Our Partners:


The Overflow Christian Community Development Association

(OCCDA) a 501 (c) 3 non-profit orga-nization, and Overflow Church, is the recipient of the generosity of an indi-vidual, who wishes to remain anony-mous, and has chosen to give the for-mer Sears facility at 1860 Pipestone Rd. in Benton Harbor to further the work of Overflow Church and the OCCDA.

The OCCDA is incredibly humbled by this opportunity and the potential the “Overflow Center” holds to help fulfill its mission: “To seek the peace and prosperity of our region through transformational initiatives and part-nerships that encourages, equips, and empowers our community to reach its greatest potential.” Rose A. Hunt, Board President for the OCCDA, says “This is an extraordinary opportunity for our area. It is my hope and dream to witness the emergence of the vast untapped potential of our communities to unprecedented levels of productiv-ity and prosperity. God continues to smile on us!”

The OCCDA is a non-denomina-tional, faith based, organization that is committed to partnerships in the com-munity, the region, and globally that helps generate resources and best prac-tices to support moving people for-ward in life. The OCCDA Philosophy is centered on the belief that all people are created with a plan, purpose, and value. We believe lasting change hap-pens through people who have been reconciled to themselves (emotion-ally/forgiveness) God (spiritual bal-ance) and each other (socially) and that a community can be transformed

through the rebuilding of relationships which lead to equipping and empow-ering all people. Overflow’s belief is that the community of Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, and surrounding counties, has incredible people and potential. As the people are shown true hope and love which transcends all perceived boundaries, this region will become a model for change, reconciliation, and healing for other parts of the world. We look forward to the years ahead and seeing our community change one

life at a time as the bridg-es of divi-sion are

overcome and the disadvantaged are empowered to live their life with hope, dignity, safety, and financial security.

The “Overflow Center” will be used as a mixed-use facility with mul-tiple tenants in the years to come, one of which will be one of their part-ner organizations Overflow Church (www.overflowchurch.org). “We believe that the God given vision of Overflow would someday lead to these transformational partnerships and we are humbled and in awe of what God has done with the Overflow Center and the OCCDA,” says Overflow Church’s lead pastor Brian Bennett, “And now we’re really excited to have the opportunity to move our Worship Celebrations to the new facility in 2010 and provide a great environment for all people, from all walks of life to come together. Truly with God all things are possible!”

For more information or a copy of this press release please see: www.overflowcommunity.blogspot.com

www.overflowchurch.orgwww.overflowccda.org

Former Sears Building Now Home of the Overflow Center

DO YOU HAVE A JOB OPENING?

Place it in the Benton Spirit for only $5.

CALL: 269/926-4241

or email to [email protected]

Page 11 • January 28, 2010 HEALTH


The Lakeland HealthCare Board of Directors has approved a facility

design for the new $13.5 million Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, to be located at the Lakeland Health Park in Royalton Township, St. Joseph. Through the creation of the Lakeland Cancer Care Center, a number of key oncology services will be available in one acces-sible location, including chemotherapy, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, education and screenings, and an on-site boutique and appearance center for cur-rent and former cancer patients.

“Many families in Southwest Michigan have been affected by cancer,” said Loren Hamel, MD, President and CEO, Lakeland HealthCare. “It is impor-tant that we provide these patients and their family members with high-quality, comprehensive cancer care services in one convenient location, in their own community.”

Since the Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center was first pro-posed, plans have been guided by a Community Advisory Board made up of healthcare professionals, cancer sur-vivors, and other community members. In February of 2009, after identifying and evaluating several possible locations, the group selected the Lakeland Health

Park, on Hollywood Road in St. Joseph, as the can-cer center’s future site. The Lakeland Health Park pro-vides significant space for comprehensive cancer ser-vices, including the diag-nostic imaging technology already located on site, as well as room for future expansion. For patients and their families, the Lakeland Health Park is an easily accessible site, with ample parking and close proxim-ity to physicians’ offices located along Hollywood Road.

In the fall of 2009, the Community Advisory Board reviewed bids from a number of architectur-al firms specializing in the design of healthcare facilities. The group ulti-mately selected BSA LifeStructures, an Indianapolis-based firm recognized nationwide for its use of evidence-based design principles. Together with the Community Advisory Board and the Lakeland HealthCare Board of Directors, BSA LifeStructures determined that the Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care

Center will be a 30,000-square-foot building that will connect to the existing Lakeland Center for Outpatient Services. To enhance privacy, the cancer center will also utilize the separate entrance and driveway off Glenlord Road. Based on feedback from patients and community members, the building will be two sto-ries tall, which will reduce the need for patients to walk long distances from one area to another.

Lakeland is scheduled to break ground for the new cancer center on Thursday, April 22, at the Lakeland Health Park, with a projected opening date in the fall of 2011. Groundbreaking festivities will include a community health fair and a free physician speaker event.

The Lakeland Health Foundation, Benton Harbor/St. Joseph, recently began a capital campaign to raise funds for the Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center. For more information about supporting the Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, contact the Lakeland Health Foundation, Benton Harbor/St. Joseph, at (269) 927-5143.

Further details on the progress of the Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, including announcements on major donors to the capital campaign, will be released in the coming weeks. For more information about oncology ser-vices available at Lakeland HealthCare, visit www.lakelandhealth.org/cancer.

Architectural Plans for Lakeland Comprehensive Cancer Care Center Revealed

Sponsorthe Benton

Spirit’sHealth Page

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Page 12 • January 28, 2010 COMMUNITY


The Twin Cities Area Transit Authority has now begun two new scheduled bus

routes. Bus stop signs are now in place at almost every stop. With new service areas, transit riders can go places that they couldn’t go using Dial a Ride service, and they can catch a bus at a reliable, scheduled time at a designated stop.

There is a significant cost savings of riding a scheduled route over Dial a Ride service – the ride only costs $1 each way (50 cents for seniors and persons with dis-abilities)! This even includes a free transfer from one fixed route to another. This means savings of anywhere from $2 to $6 per trip, over the Dial a Ride service.

Several stops along the Red Route have not had any public transit access in the past, leaving no option for residents without cars. The Coordinated Transportation – Human Services plan conducted by the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission highlighted areas with entry-level job opportunities that had no public transit access. The area sur-rounding Exit 23 off of Interstate 94 was one of these areas. Kim Gallagher, Associate Planner at the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission says, “It is our hope that Berrien Bus will utilize the fixed route stops as a transfer point to bring passengers from the rural areas into the urban areas.”

The Red Route makes a one-hour loop through Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, St. Joseph Township, and Stevensville. Hours for the Red Route are 6am to 10pm Monday through Friday and 8am to 10pm Saturday. The stop locations include:• *Harbor Towers Apartments, Wall Street, downtown Benton Harbor • *Twin City Dial a Ride office, Wall Street, downtown Benton Harbor • *Michigan Works!, Main Street, down-town Benton Harbor • The Whitcomb, St. Joseph • Lakeland Hospital, Napier Ave., St. Joseph • Harding’s, Niles Ave., St. Joseph • Martin’s, Hilltop Rd., St. Joseph Charter Township • MDOT Rideshare lot at Red Arrow Highway and I-94, Lincoln Township • Briarwood Apartments, Union St., Benton Township • Union & May, Benton Harbor • *Union & Empire, Benton Harbor • Empire & Pearl, Benton Harbor *serves as a transfer point to Blue or Green routes The Green Route makes a one-hour loop through Benton Township and Benton Harbor. Hours for the Green Route are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The stop locations include:• *Twin City Dial a Ride office, Wall Street, downtown Benton Harbor • Madeline and Jewett, Benton Township • K-PEP, Waukonda Ave., Benton Harbor • Buss Housing, Fair Ave., Benton Harbor • Blossom Acres, Highland Ave., Benton

Township • Country View Apartments, E. Britain Ave., Benton Township • The Ravines, E. Empire Ave., Benton Township • Berrien Homes, S. Crystal Ave., Benton Township • *Orchards Mall (Door #4), Benton Township • *Benton Square (Save a Lot), M-139, Benton Township • *Union and Empire, Benton Harbor

*serves as a transfer point to Blue or Green routes

Note: The Red and Green routes have a “flex option.” This means that individu-als who would like to be dropped off at a point along the Red or Green route that is not a designated stop can ask the driver for a “flex” drop-off when they board the bus. Pickups along the Red and Green routes that are not at designated stops can be requested by calling (269) 927-4461.

The Blue Route, formerly known as “The Special” or the “Line Haul” route has been operated by the Twin Cities Area Transit Authority for three years. It makes a one-hour loop through Benton Harbor and the Benton Township (Fairplain) retail area. The Blue Route runs twice an hour, servicing some locations four times an hour. The schedule and route have been adjust-ed slightly and began extended hours on November 2, 2009. The Blue Route now runs from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday. The stop locations include:• *Harbor Towers Apartments, Wall Street, downtown Benton Harbor • *Twin City Dial a Ride office, Wall Street, downtown Benton Harbor • *Michigan Works!, Main Street, downtown Benton Harbor • Family Dollar, Riverview Drive, downtown Benton Harbor • Department of Human Services, 8th Street, Benton Harbor • River Terrace Apartments, 8th Street, Benton Harbor • Hayward Wells Estates, 8th Street, Benton Harbor • *Mercy Center, Union Street, Benton Harbor • Kartar Fruit Haven, Pipestone Rd., Benton Harbor • Save-a-Lot, M-139, Benton Township • Walgreens, Napier Avenue, Benton Township • Big Lots, M-139, Benton Township • Target, Mall Drive, Benton Township • Dollar Tree, Plaza Drive, Benton Township • *Orchards Mall (Door #4), Pipestone Rd., Benton Township • Meijer, Mall Drive, Benton Township • Walmart, Mall Drive, Benton Township

*serves as a transfer point to Red or Green routes

Note: The Blue Route has a “flex option” for six particular stops: Rite Aid, Pizza Hut, Factory Card & Party Outlet, IHOP, Aldi, and La Perla. To be dropped off at any of these stops, make a request to

Two New Scheduled Bus Routes Roll Into the Greater Benton Harbor - St. Joseph

the driver upon boarding the bus. To be be picked up at any of these stops, call (269) 927-4461.

The Red Route and the extended hours of service for the Blue Route are

funded by a federal Job Access and Reverse Commute grant, which was applied for in partnership between the Twin Cities Area Transit Authority and the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission.

The schedules and route maps can be found online at www.gorideshare.org

. Paper copies of the brochures are being made available: on the buses, at the Twin Cities Area Transit Authority office, and at approximately 45 locations along the Red, Green, and Blue routes.

By Ralph HeibutzkiSpirit Correspondent

Proponents of the $500 million-plus, 530-acre Harbor Shores

retail and residential project feel opti-mistic about their ability to proceed -- following the recent dismissals of a federal lawsuit, and a state lawsuit appeal, aimed at blocking the partial development of Jean Klock Park for a golf course.

Last week, The State of Michigan Appeals Court ruled against an appeal filed by two plaintiffs regarding an August 2008 decision rendered in Berrien County Circuit Court. The case questions whether or not the Harbor Shores’ Public Golf Course qualifies as public park use. The plaintiffs cited the covenants used to settle a lawsuit filed in 2003 by the Friends of Jean Klock Park against the City of Benton Harbor over the Grand Boulevard development.

“The ruling by the Appellate Judges is more than a victory for the Harbor Shores development. It is truly a victory for our region,” said Wendy Dant Chesser, president of Cornerstone Alliance and

Trustee of Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment, Inc. “This decision only confirms what we have claimed from the beginning – that the addition of a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course will increase public use and enhance public enjoy-ment of Jean Klock Park. At the same time, this project is in the best inter-est of the community at large because it creates longstanding benefits for all residents in the community but espe-cially those who reside in the City of Benton Harbor.”

Plaintiffs seeking to overturn federal agency decisions allowing a privately-owned golf course in Jean Klock Park are also vowing to appeal another recent ruling issued by U.S. District Judge Robert Holnes Bell.

At issue are administrative pro-cedures that underlie permissions granted by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) and the National Park Service (NPS)

to Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment, Inc. (HSCRI) and the City of Benton Harbor.

According to Terry Lodge, an attorney for the plaintiffs, a critical concern is the trading of majestic dune views along Lake Michigan for 38 acres of environmentally con-taminated, former industrial land. Labeling the ruling “disappointing,” Lodge said that an appeal will be pursued, for several reasons.

“We’re taking an appeal because there were several major factual errors and legal flaws in the ruling, which, if left unchallenged, open local and state parks across the country to privatization just because a powerful entity has a plan to profit from the public’s legacy,” Lodge said.

An appeal will take a year or more for briefing, argument and a decision by the U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati. The law-suit claimed that the NPS and the USACOE ignored appraisal, environ-mental, public disclosure and public health laws when they granted per-mits to proceed with construction of the golf course as the focus of a 500-acre for-profit development.

“We will continue to follow our noses,” plaintiff Nicole Moon said. “The concealment by Harbor Shores of the severity of environmental con-tamination on land traded for Jean Klock Park acreage from the public and the Army Corps of Engineers was deliberate and wrong.”

Jean Klock Park was deeded forever to the city of Benton Harbor in 1917 by John and Carrie Klock, noted local philanthropists and resi-dents of the city, for the children. In the mid-1970s the city received a fed-eral grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund and intended for the park to be protected from com-mercial development in perpetuity.

“Thousands of parks across the country have been improved with LWCF grants, 14 in Berrien County alone,” said Julie Weiss, another plaintiff. “This ruling by Judge Bell affects all of them.”

Federal Plaintiffs To Appeal Decision In Jean Klock Park Case

Page 13 • January 28, 2010 COMMUNITY

Hey, Benton Harbor and Southwest Michigan/Northern Indiana:

Your very own, Sinbad, will be performing live at the Morris Civic in South Bend, the laughter will be on! There is a seat with your name on it...Sinbad - LIVE...2/14/2010, 7 p.m.

A native of Benton Harbor, Sinbad will delight us during this time of economic challenges. And, we need the laughs. It doesn’t matter what you are going through, there is a rainbow at the end, and a little laughter in between is sure worth the investment.

Buy your tickets NOW!

Or, you could be one of the Benton Spirit’s lucky winners. Would you like to WIN tickets to see Sinbad on Valentine's Day?

• Tell us your LOVE STORY. It is a Lifetime Movie story? Well, it could be a Benton Spirit story and you and your significant other could be sharing it at the Sinbad concert on Vaentine’s Day.

* Do you have a SINBAD STORY? As a native of Benton Harbor, maybe you can share a story about Sinbad that can make our readers laugh before the show on Valentine’s Day or make us proud of him dur-ing his younger days in Benton Harbor.

• Times are challenging these days. We are all feel-ing it. From job loss, foreclosure, children, money funny...we all need a Calgon Day. The Benton Spirit cannot give you Calgon, but we do have FREE TICKETS to the Sinbad Concert. Tell us your story, it could be a testimony to another to let them know that they are not alone. But, remember, “Joy does come in the Morning” and your story could win FREE TICKETS to SINBAD.

Send your story to • Email:[email protected] • Fax: • Mail to: Benton Spirit, P.O. Box 465, Benton Harbor, MI 49023. Deadline February 3, 2010.

We ALL deserve a little laughter...To purchase tickets to see Sinbad on Valentine's Day, visit www.morriscenter.org.

Remember, we all need a laugh, make that investment in yourself and buy your ticket today!

WIN Tickets to SEE SINBAD on VALENTINE'S

January 28, 2010 • Page 14COUPONS

ADVERTISE HERE FOR LESS THAN $10 A WEEKCall the Benton Spirit Community Newspaper • Call (269) 926-4241

$$$ • MONEY SAVING COUPONS • $$$

Dialo’s Catering"Homemade Food That's Good for Your Soul"

(269) 208-2480

10% OFFCATERING

Not valid with other specials. Party of 50 or more. Must have cou-pon when ordering. No cash value • Expires 02/15/2010

Not valid in combination with other coupons or specials.Must have coupon. No cash value • Expires 02/15/2010

JIM’S HEATING SERVICE, LLCThe Furnace Physician

Time to get your Furnace Checked372 S. FAIR AVE., BENTON HARBOR, MI 49022

EMERGENCY: (269) 449-6196SHOP: (269) 926-1512 FAX: (269) 926-1705

OWNER: JIM WHITELOW

$10 Off Service ChargeMajor Credit Cards Accepted -- VISA/30


SLACKER’S Family Fun Center with Laser Tag

Orchards Mall-1800 Pipestone Road-Entrance 31800 Pipestone Road, Benton Harbor, MI

(269) 325-7525

Bring in this Coupon Book Party Room - Get 50% OFF


SLACKER’S Family Fun Center with Laser Tag

Orchards Mall - 1800 Pipestone Road- Entrance 31800 Pipestone Road, Benton Harbor, MI

(269) 325-7525

30 TOKENS + 1 GAME OF LASER TAG• ONLY $10 •

P.J’s Child Care Services“Where little Angels get their wings”470-8067 or 927-4860 - Ask for Peggy

We take pride in nurturing and caring for your precious child - CALL NOW for GREAT RATES!

Licensed Child Care Provider•CDA CredentialOpen 24 hours/day, 6 days/week

Infants, toddlers and preschoolders

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES AND THEIR INVESTMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY!

One coupon/per day, per customer. Not valid with other promo-tions/specials. Must have coupon. Expires Feb. 15, 2010

6 Degree Resale Store174 W. Main, Benton Harbor • (269) 927-6060

Tuesday-Friday: 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am-3 pm

“WE ARE ALWAYSHAVING SALES!”

STOP IN!

We’ll Save You MONEYCall (269) 983-6353

SAVE MONEY THIS FALL

Call us to check out your furnace

before winter.

FALL PROMOTION

TIPS OF THE WEEKSmart way to

GET OUT RED STAINS!

1. Wine spill on the tablecloth?

Grab a bottle of white wine, pour directly onto the spot and clot gently. It’ll neutralize the chemicals in red wine, making it easier to erase. Rinse with cold water and wash with a stain-removing detergent.

2. Lipstick on your collar? (Oh, you bad boy!)

Blot (never rub!) the fabric with hairspray while the stain is still fresh, and the mark should wipe right off!

3. Splatter nail polish on a blanket?

Dab some nail polish remover on a clean cloth, then clot on the fabric, working from the back of the stain – that’ll force the polish to bleed onto the cloth.

4. Cranberry sauce on your plans?

Get out those pesky spots by applying liquid deter-gent directly to the area. Work it in gently, soak the gar-ment in hot water for 10 minutes, then wash as directed.

5. Kids got red marker on wood?

Lightly dab rubbing alcohol over the stain. After it disappears, clean the area with water. (Make sure to test on a small section first.)

6. Stained plastic container?

Tomato sauce left its mark on your plas-tic-ware? Fill the container with warm water and drop in two denture tablets. Leave for a few hours to fizz away the stains!

As always, be cautious. May not work all the time on every red stain, but many have found these to be great solution.

Do you have tips to share, email: [email protected].

Not valid in combination with other coupons or spe-cials. Must have coupon. Expires 02/15/2010

957 Pipestone • Benton Harbor, MI (269) 925-1926

Replica Designer Handbags - Under $50COACH, DOLCE & GABANA, GUCCI, PRADA, ETC.

Stop in NOW for Fall Sale!


CLASSIFIEDSCLASSIFIEDS

Bookkeepr and Computer Operator NeededOur company need a male and female bookkeeper and com-puter operator. If interested, [email protected], for more information.

BS/adv.January 28, 2010________________________Full and Part-Time PositionsFull Time / Part Time positions available for PT/ PTA/OT with highly compititive salary in bentonharbour and South west Michigan. Interested candi-dates please fax or email your resumes to: Phone: (309) 363-7402Fax: (734) 574-6007Email: [email protected]

BS/adv.January 28, 2010_______________________

Enjoy the excitement and spirit of golf. Call now for

your spring opening and new business.

GOLF ETC, professional franchise

800-806-8633. www.golfetc.com

BS/adv.January 28, 2010________________________

This volunteer position can turn into a paying position w/in one month. We need a person who is:1. Reliable/Committed2. Comfortable w/telemarketing.3. Can follow-thru with tasks.4 Great computer an Internet experience.5. Writing experience.6. Can handle deadlines.7. Can work independently.8. Have a fire within to excel and progress in life.

Help the Benton Spirit make 2010 the best! Willing to invest your time and expertise towards a new career?

Send resume and letter of interest, tell why you want to be part of a new community -- new you.

Email: [email protected]

SYNOPSIS OF THE REGU-LAR MEETING OF THE BENTON CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2010 AT 5:30 P.M.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Supervisor Ferguson, Clerk Phillips, Treasurer Boothby, Trustees Fowler, Harvey, Hudson & Jefferson

MEMBERS ABSENT: None

ALSO PRESENT: Kelli Smith-Township Controller Approved the minutes of the regular meeting held January 5, 2010.

Approved request from the Police Department to purchase four (4) Panasonic laptop computers, four (4) Cisco Firewalls, and ten (10) Printek printers for the patrol vehicles, using drug forfeiture funds in the amount of $25,017.80, in preparation for the move to Central Dispatch with the County. Approved payment of bill list-ing totaling $250,739.63.

Meeting adjourned at 5:38 p.m.

Carolyn Phillips, Township Clerk

BS/adv.January 28, 2010____________________

SUDOKUUsing the num-bers from 1 to 9, finish filling in the 9x9 grid so that every number appears exactly once in each row, in each column, and in each of the nine smaller 3x3 sections defined by the heavy lines. The numbers in the grid let you know which numbers to avoid; every time you place a number, you’re help-ing to eliminate possibilities elsewhere.

Building a Spirit of

Community in

Benton Harbor

since 1952 For more information:

Visit www.berriencommunity.orgCall 269-983-3486

BUS. OPPTY.

Classifieds

Work

(269)926-4241

Page 15 • January 28, 2010


EMPLOYMENT PUBLIC NOTICE

VOLUNTEER

TUTORA

CHILDTODAY

!___Call

Socrates(269)

757-1641

January 28, 2010 • Page 16EDUCATION


Documents

Informing, Enhancing, Showcasing, Promotion and …bentonspiritnews.com/clients/bentonspiritnews/Jan282010.pdfCommunity Newspaper January 28, 2010 Volume 9, Number 4 Benton Harbor