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The Berrien County Outlook
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Former Niles resident Dave Schmidt and Todd Johnsrud have fun on Live@5 at WROK in Rockford, Illinois

OBITUARIES

Brown Funeral Home

Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home

McLauchlin-Clark Funeral Home

Swem Funeral Home

Sommerfeld-Smith Family Funeral Home

Pobocik Funeral Home

LOCAL NEWS

The Pub Break-In

Sheriff's Kid Camp

The camp is open to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. The camp is on a first come, first serve basis, so the first to register will be guaranteed placement. Space is limited to the first 40 who sign up, dead line is June 6, 2010. The cost is only $25.00 per child which includes great lunches, a free T-shirt, water bottles, sling bag, goodie bag and a graduation certificate upon completion. Sheriff L. Paul Bailey and McGruff the Crime Dog will be the special guest.

Time:

   
June 22nd  sign in starts at 7:30 a.m.
Program runs from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  June 22nd ,23rd, and 24th, 2010

We are looking forward to another great "SHERIFF"S KID CAMP" - Let your friends know about this camp!!!!

Buchanan Drug Bust

At the time of the search warrant execution, the officers located and arrested James Andrew Stanley of Grass Valley, California and Jose Gregorio Luna of Nevada City, California inside of this residence.

During a search of this residence, the officers located and seized approximately $2,000 worth of marijuana as well as other pieces of evidence in regards to illegal narcotic trafficking.

The officers also located and seized $3,116.00 in U.S. Currency under the State of Michigan's civil forfeiture law.

As a result of this investigation/search warrant execution, Jose Luna and James Stanley were both lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Deliver 2nd Offense and Maintaining a Drug House 2nd Offense, pending their arraignments in the Berrien County Trial Courts.

Rock, and a Legend, are Back at the Fair

Charlie Daniels Band

(Berrien Springs, MI) You have probably seen him on Geico Insurance commercials lately, and this summer you can see him under the covered Grandstand at the Berrien County Youth Fair: The Charlie Daniels Band. Charlie and his fiddle, along with country newcomer Eric Church as the opening act, will perform in the Grandstand in a long-awaited return since his last stint in Berrien Springs in 2001. And rock fans will be happy about rock coming back to the fair with Skid Row and Firehouse, with a first time ever General Admission “no seats” section for that show. Tickets for all six nights of fair week Grandstand entertainment will go on sale Saturday, April 17.

The BCYF Entertainment Committee announced today that the Charlie Daniels Band will headline the Grandstand entertainment on Wednesday, August 18. With his signature “bullrider” hat and showing off his skills on the guitar, fiddle, and mandolin, the fans are sure to hear “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” for which the country music legend is most famous. A full-fledged member of the Grand Ole Opry, Daniels has gold, platinum, and multi-platinum albums, multiple awards from the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music, the Gospel Music Association, and a Grammy.

Before the Charlie Daniels Band hits the stage, rising country newcomer, Eric Church, will take the stage on August 18. A native of North Carolina, he’s been writing music since he was 13-years old and also taught himself how to play the guitar. Coming onto the country music scene in 1996 with “Two Pink Lines,” he made a name for himself and has had other hits such as “How Bout You,” “Guys Like Me,” “Love Your Love the Most,” and his latest release, “Hell on the Heart.” Country concert night is sponsored by Chemical Bank and 97.5 Y-Country.

On Thursday, August 19, Skid Row and special guest Firehouse will bring rock back to the fair. It has been about ten years since the fair has featured a rock band. Board member Mark Young said, “After several years without a rock-n-roll show, the Entertainment Committee thought this was the right year to let the new generation of "Classic Rock" play in the Grandstand. As a member of that new generation I am excited to see two bands I saw in my high school and college days perform at the fair.” At this show the Grandstand will have a special General Admission section for concert- goers who choose to stand during the show, which will be accessed with a special wristband. Reserved track seats and Grandstand bleacher seats will still be available.

Multi-platinum status band, Skid Row, began in 1986 with founding members Snake Sabo and Rachel Bolan. Frontman, Johnny Solinger, and the band have logged a few hundred thousand bus miles touring since their early “hair band” days. Fans will hear songs like “18 and Life,” “I Remember You,” and “Youth Gone Wild” when they make a stop at the Berrien County Youth Fair. Special guest Firehouse will be the opening band. Firehouse has been rockin’ worldwide for over a decade. You can expect to hear what Firehouse is famous for, which is soulful, melodic hard rock, in songs like “Don’t Treat Me Bad,” and “Love of a Lifetime.” The rock concert is sponsored by Rock 107 WIRX. The rest of the BCYF Grandstand lineup includes the traditional Truck and Tractor Pull on the opening day of the fair, Monday, August 16, sponsored by WSJM radio. Kids Day is Tuesday, August 17 with three free Circus Continental shows, sponsored by United Federal Credit Union and 98.3 the Coast. The rodeo style show, Bullmania, returns on Friday, August 20, and the extremely popular Demolition Derby closes out the fair on Saturday, August 21, presented by ROCK 107 WIRX.

Tickets for grandstand entertainment go on sale Saturday, April 17. New this year will be two different ticket sale times.

Tickets purchased in person or by phone will start at 8 a.m. at the Fair Office in Berrien Springs, or by phone at 269-473-1500. On-line ticket sales will begin at 2 p.m. the same day at www.bcyf.org. The fair is once again offering a special deal on one-day gate admission tickets April 17 through August 1. The sale price will be $5.00 each with the purchase of a grandstand ticket, which is $1 off of the regular price. The 65th annual Berrien County Youth Fair, with the theme “A Treasure Chest of the County’s Best,” is August 16-21.

$169,000 SEIZED

On 3/2/2010 at approximately 1 pm, Deputy Marc Hopkins effected a traffic stop on a vehicle which was traveling west-bound on I-94 near the 27mm for a violation of the State of Michigan's Motor Vehicle Code. At the time of the traffic stop, the vehicle was being driven by a 33 year old male subject from the Oakland County Michigan area. Also present in the vehicle was a 27 year old female from the Wayne County Michigan area.

During this traffic stop, Deputy Marc Hopkins's Narcotics Detection K-9 made a positive indication on this vehicle for the presence of illegal narcotics.

During a search of this vehicle, Deputy Marc Hopkins located and seized over $169,000.00 in U.S. Currency. This U.S. Currency was seized under the State of Michigan's Civil Forfeiture Law.

Deputy Marc Hopkins was assisted at the scene of the traffic stop by members of the Berrien County Sheriff Department's Narcotics Unit, the Saint Joseph Township Police Department, the Michigan State Police, and the Baroda-Lake Township Police Department.

The two occupants of this vehicle were released upon completion of this traffic stop and the investigation in regards to the seizure of this U.S. Currency is continuing.

Open Board Positions

The Berrien County Board of Health has one position with a term expiring. It is required to be a licensed physician in order to apply for this position. The Board provides policy leadership and oversight for the Health Department. Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. and the term is for five years.

The Mental Health Authority has two positions vacant and two with terms expiring. The Mental Health Authority (Riverwood Center) provides information, care, and services ranging from occasional counseling sessions to full intervention for those with severe disabilities or mental illness; providing the choices, the means, the interventions and supports for optimal mental health and recovery for the citizens of Berrien County. The composition of the Mental Health Authority is made up of representation of providers of mental health services, recipients, or primary consumers of mental health services, agencies, and occupations having a working involvement with mental health services and the general public. The term is for three years and the meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 4:00 p.m.

The Land Bank Authority has one position with a term expiring. The Land Bank Authority is made up of the Berrien County Treasurer, three citizens, and three Commissioners-At-Large. The Authority strives to strengthen and revitalize the economy of Berrien County by assembling or disposing of public property, including tax reverted property in a coordinated manner to foster the development of the property and to promote economic growth. The term is for four years and the meetings are held on the 4th Thursday at 12:30 p.m.

The Land Preservation Board has two vacancies, one for a farmer and one involved in conservation. There are also two positions with terms expiring, one being a farmer and one being a realtor, representing the interests in either Royalton, Lincoln, Bainbridge, Sodus, or Berrien Townships. The purpose of this board is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Commissioners on the priorities for the purchase of farmland development rights; the price and method of compensation relative to the purchase of such development rights; and apply for state, federal or other sources of grant funds to assist the purchase of development rights. The terms for the positions are three years. While this board is not meeting on a regular basis, it is necessary to maintain this board which will eventually meeting quarterly in the early morning hours.

The Public Transportation Local Advisory Committee has two positions that are vacant; one Disability Advocate and one general public. The purpose of the board is to serve as an advisory body to the Board of Commissioners on public transportation issues. The ideal candidates would be people who use the public transportation system. The terms are four three years. The board meets three times a year at 10:00 a.m. at the Berrien County Administration Center, 701 Main St., St. Joseph.

The 9-1-1 Advisory Board has one citizen vacancy. The purpose of the Advisory Board is to promote the continued operation of the 9-1-1 Emergency System, to promote public awareness, and to serve in the advisory capacity to the Berrien County Board of Commissioners by giving advice and making suggestions with respect to the overall general provision of the 9-1-1 service to the citizens of the County. The board meets on a Wednesday, every other month in the morning. The terms are for three years.

Drug Arrest In Benton Harbor

At the time of the search warrant execution, the officers located Horatio White, Kotina Atkins both of Benton Harbor, and two other adult subjects inside of the residence. Also located inside of the residence was a infant child.

During a search of the residence, the officers located and seized approximately $600 worth of marijuana and other evidence of illegal narcotic trafficking.

Under the State of Michigan's civil forfeiture law, the officers seized $366.00 in U.S. Currency.

Horatio White, who was currently on electronic tether at 2012 Taylor St., for a previous narcotic related conviction was lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Deliver 2nd Offense and Maintaining a Drug House 2nd Offense.

Kotina Atkins was lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Deliver, Maintaining a Drug House, and on a valid fugitive warrant for probation violation out of the State of Indiana.

The infant child was turned over to the custody of family members. The other two adult subjects, who were inside of this residence at the time of the search warrant execution, were released with no criminal charges being sought against them.

Marijuana Plants Seized

On 2/22/2010 at approximately 745 pm, the Berrien County Sheriff Department's Narcotics Unit with assistance from the Berrien County Sheriff Department's Road Patrol executed a search warrant for illegal narcotics at 5997 Snyder Rd. (Township of Berrien), following a week long investigation into suspected narcotic activity at this residence.

At the time of the search warrant execution, Richard Collier, Berrien Springs was located inside of the residence.

During the execution of the search warrant, the officers located and seized eighty-nine (89) live mature marijuana plants (according to the United States Drug Enforcement Agency, a mature marijuana plant is capable of producing $1,000 worth of marijuana). The officers also located and seized approximately $4,000 worth of processed marijuana as well as other evidence of illegal narcotic trafficking.

The officers also located and seized two firearms from inside of this residence.

Under the State of Michigan's civil forfeiture law, the officers located and seized $341.00 in U.S. Currency and misc. pieces of lighting fixtures, which were used in the indoor manufacturing of marijuana. The officers also seized a 1995 Chevrolet Blazer under the civil forfeiture law.

Richard Allen Collier was lodged at the Berrien County Jail on his above mentioned charges, pending his arriagnment in the Berrien County Trial Courts.

Buchanan Drug Arrest

At the time of the search warrant execution, the officers located Henry Blackmon Jr. and Jessica Tabbert, both of Buchanan, inside of the residence. Also located inside of the residence was a three year old child.

During a search of the residence, the officers located and seized approximately $300 worth of marijuana as well as other evidence of illegal narcotic trafficking.

Under the State of Michigan's civil forfeiture law, the officers seized $81.00 in U.S. Currency and two cell phones.

The three year old child was turned over to the custody of family members.

Both Henry Blackmon Jr. and Jessica Tabbert were lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Deliver and Maintaining a Drug House, pending their arraignments in the Berrien County Trial Courts.

Health Care

CLICK HERE - Health Proposal

St. Joseph Fire

Fire crews cleared the scene at 5:07 PM.

Fatal Traffic Accident

Upon arrival, Deputy Newman found a single vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree. Weesaw Township used the Jaws of Life and Medic 1 responded to the scene to treat the single female occupant of the vehicle.

The female was pronounced dead at the scene.

This accident is under investigation.

UPDATED

A witness at the scene reported that Ms. Schuh did not appear to be speeding at the time of the crash.

The crash is still under investigation.

Could you effectively defend yourself if attacked?

RAD is not a martial arts program. It is a basic self-defense program that any woman, no matter her age or physical level, can learn. The tactics are simple!

The class is being offered to all females, 14 years of age and above. The course is 12 hours long and is offered in 3 evenings, lasting 4 hours each night. All sessions must be attended. Best of all, the class is FREE!

Our next RAD class is scheduled As follows:

  
March 8,15, 22, 2010
Berrien County Sheriff’s Department - 5:30 p.m.  -  9:30 p.m.
919 Port Street
St. Joseph, Michigan

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY CLASS

Date:  Saturday, March 6, 2010
Time:  9:00am to 4:00pm
Location:  Berrien County Sheriff’s Dept. Training Facility
           7110 Angling Rd.
           Coloma, MI  49038

Cost:  Free - Ages:  12 years old & up

Please include legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, parental contact phone number (if under 16 years old). You will receive a confirmation with additional information once registered.

This program is designed to allow youths, between the ages of 12- 16, to operate snowmobiles without direct adult supervision. Parents are encouraged to attend as well.

Classroom materials will cover safety issues, legal requirements, proper operation and maintenance, and will conclude with a written examination.

“Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program”

Berrien County May 4, 2010 School Board Candidates

Arraignment of Hit & Run Driver

On 2-5-2010, Bradley Dean Osban was arraigned in the Niles Fifth District Court on the charge of Failing to Stop at a Serious Personal Injury Accident that had occurred on 1-5-10. The accident happened at 7:41am, in the downtown Village of Berrien Springs. Bradley Osban has been remanded to the Berrien County Jail in lieu of $20000 bond. There has been a Pre-Exam Hearing scheduled for 2-12-10.

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Drug Search

At the time of the search warrant execution, the officers located Jason Richard Zuhl and a twenty year old female inside of the residence.

During a search of the residence, the officers located and seized approximately $300 worth of marijuana and other evidence of illegal narcotic trafficking. The officers also located and seized six firearms from inside of this residence.

Jason Richard Zuhl of Stevensville was arrested and lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Deliver 2nd Offense, Maintaining a Drug House 2nd Offense, and Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony.

The 20 year old female was released with no criminal charges being sought against her.

Benton Harbor Drug Arrest

This search warrant was the result of a two-week long investigation into suspected narcotic sales taking place at this residence. This investigation began after the Berrien County Sheriff Department's Narcotics Unit had received complaints from concerned citizens in regards to suspected narcotic activity taking place at this residence.

During the execution of the search warrant, the officers located Mary Anzetta Kelly and a 33 year old male subject inside of the residence.

During a search of the residence, the officers located and seized approximately $800 worth of Crack Cocaine and other evidence of illegal narcotic trafficking.

The officers also seized $140.00 in U.S. Currency under the State of Michigan's Civil Forfeiture Law.

Mary Anzetta Kelly of Benton Harbor was arrested and lodged at the Berrien County Jail on charges of Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Deliver and Maintaining a Drug House.

The 33 year old male subject was released with no criminal charges being sought against him.

Coloma Arrests

This investigation began after the Berrien County Sheriff Department and the Coloma Township Police Department had received tips from concerned citizens in regards to suspected narcotic activity at this residence.

At the time of the search warrant execution, the officers located Jeremie Estkowski inside of the residence. During the course of this search warrant execution, Uriah James Collard and two juveniles (ages 3 and 9), who reside at this residence returned to the residence.

During a search of the residence, the officers located and seized a small amount of processed methamphetamines, a small amount of marijuana, and components/ingredients commonly used in the manufacturing of methamphetamines.

As a result of this investigation, Uriah Collard and Jeremie Estkowski, both of Coloma, were arrested and lodged at the Berrien County Jail on their above mentioned respective charges pending their arraignments in the Berrien County Trial Courts.

The two juveniles (ages 3 and 9) were taken into protective custody by the officers and they were turned over to the custody of the State of Michigan's Childrens Protective Services.

Niles Robbery

The Suspect is described as a Black Male, approx. 5'8 ft, and 150 lbs wearing a bright blue bandana covering his face and a black hooded sweatshirt with black pants.

If you have an information on this Arm Robbery please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-342-STOP or contact the Berrien County Sheriff's Department Detective Bureau D/Sgt. Fred Laesch 269-983-7142 Ex. 6287

BCYF Wins Nine Awards

Communication Awards Chairperson, Carol Britten, said the purpose of the competition is to “improve the advertising and publicity programs of fairs and events and to provide recognition for those fairs and events doing an outstanding job.” Criteria for judging the advertising material was based on utilizing a central theme and appropriateness to the activities, audience, and media used. The advertising materials were required to be motivational, informative, and indicative of creative excellence. Ribbons and plaques were awarded in three divisions, according to the fair attendance. BCYF was in the large fairs division, with attendance over 100,000 people.

BCYF took top prize with the ‘Best of Show’ award which was determined by the best use of fair theme or logo throughout all of the eight categories. BCYF Marketing and Sponsorship Coordinator, Sandie Lieberg, said “I am very proud of all of the hard work the staff and board members put in to be recognized with these awards.” Lieberg said there are over 80 fairs and festivals in Michigan. The 2009 fair theme was “A Blue Ribbon Celebration” and a blue ribbon with many fair animals was used for marketing theme.

Awards received by BCYF include:

1st Place:  Website Home Page (second year in a row)
1st Place:  Advertising Specialties & Merchandise (second year in a row)
1st Place:  Printed Promotional Material: Brochure
1st Place:  "Any Other" Communication, for Expo Arena marketing pieces
2nd Place:  Promotional Material: Multi-Page
3rd Place:  Poster
4th Place: Printed Promotional Material: Fair Book
5th Place:  Newspaper Ad: Black & White or Color 

Indoor Marijuana Grow-operation

During this investigation, the deputies located Jack Daniel Curran inside of the residence.

During a search of this residence, the officers located and seized ninety-five (95) "live" marijuana plants in various stages of growth. (According to DEA statistics a mature marijuana plant is capable of producing $1,000 worth of processed marijuana). Thus the street value of the seized marijuana plants is estimated at $95,000.

The officers alslo located and seized a quantity of processed marijuana from inside of this residence, as well as other items of evidence indictive of marijuana trafficking.

Under the State of Michigan's civil forfeiture law, the officers seized numerous pieces of electronic equipment as well as the lighting fixtures used in this indoor marijuana grow-operation.

Jack Daniel Curran was arrested and lodged at the Berrien County Jail on his above mentioned charges pending his arraignment in the Berrien County Trial Courts.

St. Joe Fire

Fire crews cleared the scene at 5:09 PM.

Suspect Arrested

On 03/24/07, Berrien County Sheriff's Office (Niles Twp. Patrols) responded to a Home Invasion and Shooting at 2006 Ontario Lt # 68, Niles Twp.

Once at this location, Sheriff Deputies found Jason Rosenhagen, who was living at this location Shot in the facial area and Jesswin Bryant was beaten.

They advised two subjects broke into their residence early hours of the 24th of March 2007, Armed with hand Guns, Demanded money. Both victims rushed both of the intruders, and a fight ensued with all four subjects, resulting in Mr. Jason Rosenhagen being shot in the facial area and Bryant being assaulted.

Both Suspects at that time fled the scene.

Sheriff Detectives started the investigation and from Forensic Evidence left at the scene and from interviews arrested the first suspect Daniel Thomas Pierson 23 yrs of age, giving an address of 2741 Reynolds on multiple Felony Warrants on Sept. 09 and this DATE, Sheriff Deputies, assisted by Michigan State Police from the Niles post arrested Joran Leon Holmes at his residence of 2249 Redfield Rd. just into Cass County without incident.

CHARGES

DANIEL THOMAS PIERSON 2741 Reynolds St. Niles, Mi. (age 23) Robbery Arm-Assault With intent to Rob while Armed 2) Home Invasion 1st Degree 3) Weapon Felony Firearms 4) Assault With Intent to Murder 5) Assault With Dangerous Weapon.

Both Suspects are lodged at the Berrien County Jail.

D/Sgt. Fred Laesch was the lead investigator.

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

your upcoming event at your school, church or civic group...It's free!

Stargazer Retreats for Women

www.stargazer-retreats.com

Weekend Retreats for Women - Union Pier, Michigan

It’s amazing to believe that another busy summer is passing before our eyes! Whatever happened to the lazy hazy summer days of our youth? Taking time out to enjoy the moment is something we all have to work on and paying attention to ourselves is usually the last thing on our “to-do” list. The above quote from Susan Jeffers reminds us that we must listen to our inner voice (intuition) and recognize that we really do deserve an occasional break in the action. A little hiatus of sorts, in order to rest, relax and renew our souls.

Stargazer Retreats offer an opportunity for women of all ages to allow themselves an opportunity to simply relax and unwind. Included is an incredible one-hour private massage, an Art project taught by a local Artist, an Introduction to yoga and meditation, as well as wonderful information from a remarkable Speaker who’s full of wisdom! The retreats are held one weekend a month in various Bed & Breakfasts in the southwest Michigan area. The weekend package includes overnight accommodations and meals.

Visit www.stargazer-retreats.com for full details, or phone me at 269-357-1608.

Don’t you deserve a break today?

**Average price for Weekend Retreat: $525.00 - All-Inclusive. Price may vary according to season and location of Retreat.

Future Retreats planned by Stargazer

2009 Upcoming Retreats

** “A weekend of Silence and Contemplation”

** “The Power of Personal Presence”

** “Let’s Talk Money”

** “Creating a Successful Business – First Take Care of the Owner”

THE ACORN THEATER SCHEDULE

www.acorntheater.com

107 Generations Drive, 49128

All Info and Ticket/Reservations Info: 269. 756. 3879

Tickets can be purchased by Visa or MasterCard at www.acorntheater.com