The Answer Book

3What’s InsideGOVERNMENT• Berrien County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 6• City of Niles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 6• Bertrand Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7• Niles Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7• City of Buchanan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7 • Buchanan Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7• Cass County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 8• City of Dowagiac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10• Silver Creek Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10• Wayne Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 11• Pokagon Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 11• Village of Vandalia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 11• Village of Marcellus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12• Marcellus Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12• Volinia Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12• Village of Cassopolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12• Calvin Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12• Jefferson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 13• LaGrange Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 13• Newberg Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14• Penn Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14• Village of Edwardsburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14• Mason Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 15• Milton Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 15• Porter Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18• Ontwa Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18• Howard Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18

SCHOOLS• Berrien Regional Education Service Agency. . .Page 19• Niles Community Schools . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 19Niles High SchoolRing Lardner Middle SchoolNorthside Child Development CenterBallard ElementaryHoward ElementaryJames Ellis ElementaryOak Manor ElementarySouthside SchoolCedar Lane Alternative SchoolNiles New Tech Entrepreneurial AcademyEastside Connections School• Brandywine Public Schools . . . . . . . . . . .Page 21Brandywine Middle/Senior High SchoolBell Education CenterBrandywine Elementary SchoolMerritt Elementary• Buchanan Community Schools . . . . . . . .Page 22Buchanan High SchoolBuchanan Middle SchoolOttawa Elementary SchoolStark Elementary SchoolMoccasin Elementary School• Niles Seventh-day Adventist School . . . .Page 23• St. Mary’s Catholic School, Niles . . . . . .Page 26• Lewis Cass ISD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 26

• Cassopolis Public Schools . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 26Ross Beatty Junior/Senior High SchoolSam Adams ElementaryAlternative/Adult Education• Edwardsburg Public Schools . . . . . . . . . .Page 27Edwardsburg High SchoolEdwardsburg IntermediateEdwardsburg Middle SchoolEagle Lake ElementaryEdwardsburg Primary• Southwestern Michigan College . . . . . . .Page 28• Lake Michigan College . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28

VITAL INFORMATION• Dowagiac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29• Cassopolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29• Edwardsburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 30• Niles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 32• Niles Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 33• Buchanan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 33

CIVIC GROUPS• Rotary, garden clubs, Optimist, etc. . . . .Page 37

TRANSPORTATION• Airports, buses, taxis, trains . . . . . . . . . .Page 39

RECREATION• Youth sports leagues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 43• Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 43• Golf courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 43• State parks, county parks . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 44• Hiking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 45

Katie RohmanManaging Editor

Niles Daily Star, Cassopolis Vigilant,

Edwardsburg Argus

John EbyManaging Editor

Dowagiac Daily News

Kevin SmithDirector of Advertising

Rick LottDistribution Manager

Adams Theraputic Massage 269-358-3345 Lunkers 269-663-3745Bentzer Inc. 269-663-3649 Marbach, Brady & Weaver Inc. 574-266-1010Carmi Design Group Inc. 269-663-5073 Mary Kay 269-641-5493Cass County Economic Development 269-445-4420 Meridian Title Corporation 269-663-8139Center for Animal Health 269-663-3235 North American Forest 269-663-8500Chemical Bank 269-663-3343 Ontwa Township 269-663-2347Clear Choice Chiropractic Ontwa Township- of Edwardsburg, PC 269-663-6600 Edwardsburg Police Dept. 269-663-8444Coldwell Banker RWG 269-663-8800 Our Lady of the LakeCressy & Everette Real Estate 269-663-3815 Catholic Church 269-699-5870Curtis Chiropractic 269-663-3815 Precision Sheet Metal 269-663-8810D.E. Duck Heating & Cooling 269-699-5237 Presbyterian Church 269-663-6815Drexel Inc. 269-699-7676 Red Star Auctions/ St. Evans Inc 269-663-6100Eagle Lake Marine of Mich. Inc. 269-699-5103 Robinʼs Nest: Quilts & More 269-663-3303East Shore Animal Hospital 269-663-7387 Scapino Steel 269-663-0045Edwardsburg Family Medicine 269-663-8288 Service Oil Company 269-445-2441Edward Jones Investments 269-663-3130 South Bend SilverHawks 574-235-9988Edwardsburg Area Chamber Southwestern Michigan College 269-782-1000 of Commerce 574-343-3721 State Farm 269-663-7015Edwardsburg Public Schools 269-663-3055 Stateline Diesel 269-663-8571Greater Niles Community Federal Stillson Insurance Agency LLC 269-663-6695 Credit Union 269-414-4327 Subway Edwardsburg, Libs, Inc. 269-663-8558G.W. Jones Bank 269-663-5626 Superior Air ManagementHardingʼs Friendly Market 269-663-7305 Systems, LLC 269-663-5700Hope United Methodist Church... Tim Tancey, CPA 269-663-8620 Church Services, Angel Food Network 269-663-5321 Teresa of Edwardsburg 269-663-2244Kellyʼs Investment 269-699-5225 The Union HouseKemner lott Agency 269-445-2425 Bed & Breakfast 269-641-9988Kruppʼs Power Sports Inc. 269-663-8424 Union Insurance Agency, LLC 269-641-5995LaBre & Associates 269-663-8554 Uptown Improvement Assoc. 269-663-2347Leader Publications 269-687-7703 Valhalla Information 269-687-7713 Systems LLC 269-978-8084 269-687-7731 574-968-7059 Lionʼs Club 269-663-2005 Village of Edwardsburg 269-663-8484 Voice Edwardsburg/Union & Surrounding Communities 269-445-8455

Edwardsburg Chamber of Commerce

574-343-3721 or 269-663-6344P.O. Box 575

Located:26225 US12

Edwardsburg, MI 49112E-mail: [email protected]

Web: www.edwardsburg.biz

Member List:

6 GovernmentBerrien County

Bill Wolf, County Administrator701 Main Street St. Joseph, MI 49085 Office hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-

FridayPhone: (269) 983-7111 ext. 8601Fax: (269) 983-5788 E-mail: [email protected]: www.berriencounty.org

CommissionersDistrict 1Robert A. Wooley, P.O. Box 324, Coloma,

MI 49038; phone, 468-7329; fax, 468-9534;e-mail, [email protected].

District 2Jon Hinkelman, 201 M-140, Watervliet,

MI 49098; phone, 463-3385; e-mail,[email protected].

District 3Marletta Seats, 1644 Stanley Drive,

Benton Harbor, MI 49022; phone, (269) 927-3062.

District 4Mamie Yarbrough, 1086 Monroe St.,

Benton Harbor, MI 49022; phone, 925-2669;e-mail, [email protected].

District 5Catherine Thieneman, 1417 Newberry

Hills, St. Joseph, MI 49085; phone, 983-7103.District 6Jeanette Leahey, 2985 East Bluffwood

Terrace, St. Joseph, MI 49085; phone, 429-6349; e-mail, [email protected].

District 7Debra Panozzo, 1614 Barbara Ann Drive,

Stevensville, MI, 49127; phone, 429-2131; e-mail, [email protected].

District 8Bryan Bixby, 5743 Pokagon Rd., Berrien

Springs, MI, 49103; phone, (269) 471-9290;[email protected]

District 9Chair Dave Pagel, 3221 East Shawnee Rd.,

Berrien Springs, MI, 49103; phone, (269)471-7398.

District 10Andrew Vavra, 7120 West Elm Valley Rd.,

Three Oaks, MI 49128; phone, 756-7162.District 11

Mac Elliott, 1 Park Court, Buchanan, MI49107; phone, 695-9312.

District 12John LaMore, 2329 Floral Drive, Niles, MI

49120; phone, 684-4948.District 13Zach Perkins, 546 Grant St., Niles, MI

49120; phone, (269) 357-9266.

Other officialsCounty Clerk Louise Stine, 811 Port St.,

St. Joseph; (269) 983-7111 ext. 8241.Drain Commissioner Roger Zilke, 701

Main St. Joseph; (269) 983-7111 ext. 8633.Prosecutor Arthur Cotter, 811 Port St., St.

Joseph; (269) 983-7111 ext. 8311.Sheriff L. Paul Bailey, 919 Port St., St.

Joseph, (269) 983-7141; jail, 983-7141 ext.7220.

Undersheriff Chuck Heit, ext. 7219.Treasurer Bret Witkowski, 701 Main St.,

St. Joseph; (269) 983-7111 ext. 8645.

CourtsBerrien County Courthouse-First Floor811 Port St., St. Joseph, MI 49085-1192Criminal: (269) 982-8682 Traffic: (269) 982-8680Fax: (269) 982-8643

South County Courthouse1205 North Front St., Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-5274

Berrien County Trial CourtAlfred M. Butzbaugh, Chief Judge

Criminal DivisionJudgesAngela M. Pasula, presiding judgeGary J. BruceCharles T. LaSataSterling R. Schrock, presiding judgeDennis M. WileyScott Schofield, south county

Civil DivisionBerrien County Courthouse-Third Floor811 Port St., St. Joseph, MI 49085-1192Phone: (269) 983-7111 ext. 8683Fax: (269) 983-3604John E. Dewane, presiding judge

Family DivisionBerrien County Courthouse-Fourth Floor811 Port St., St. Joseph, MI 49085-1192Phone: (269) 982-8613Fax: (269) 982-8644Thomas E. Nelson, presiding judge

City of Niles

City Hall508 East Main St., Niles, 49120Phone: (269) 683-4700Website: www.ci.niles.mi.us

MayorMichael McCauslin, 683-2494Administrator Terry Eull

Location of municipal meetings: 1345 EastMain St. on the second and fourth Monday at6 p.m.

City CouncilFirst WardGeorgia Boggs806 Ash St.(269) 684-3873

Patricia Gallagher1529 Merrifield St.(269) 684-3325

Second WardRobert Durm113 North 13th St.(269) 683-3105

Daniel VandenHeede639 North 13th St.(269) 684-4642

Third WardBetty Arndt1412 Oak St.(269) 684-3630

William Weimer418 Michigan St.(269) 683-4446

Fourth WardBruce Williams777 Bryant St.(269) 683-3941

William T. Skalla520 South Lincoln St.(269) 684-2455

Police Chief Ric Huff, (260) 683-3282Fire Chief Larry Lamb, (269) 683-2520Community Development, Juan Ganum,

(269) 683-4700 ext. 233Public Works Director Neil Coulston,

(269) 683-4700 ext. 202City Clerk Linda Casperson, (269) 683-

4700 ext. 204Utilities Manager J.W. Rossow, (269)

683-4700 ext. 216Finance Director Sandy Naugle, (269)

683-4700 ext. 220Assessor Cindy Closson, (269) 683-4700

ext. 209City Attorney Robert Landgraf Jr., (269)

683-8300Electrical Superintendent Randy Stevens

(269) 684-3901 ext. 302Electrical Inspector John Klimek, (269)

683-4700 ext. 210Water Superintendent Johnnie Hall, (269)

684-3901 ext. 302Wastewater Superintendent Terry Benish,

(269) 684-3904Building Official Guy Lewis, (269) 683-

4700 ext. 205Museum Director Carol Bainbridge, (269)

683-4700 ext. 212

Bertrand TownshipTownship hall3835 Buffalo Rd., Buchanan, MI 49107Board meets the second Thursday each

month at 7:30 p.m.Phone: (269) 695-5001Fax: (269) 695-4205E-mail: [email protected] hours: Monday through Thursday,

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Township zoning board meetings: first

Thursday of every other month, 7 p.m.Township board meetings: second

Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.

SupervisorTo be selected in Aug. 2 election

Clerk Jane Lano(269) 695-5001Term expires November 2012

Deputy Clerk Kelsey Castle(269) 695-5001

Treasurer Lee Ann Couture(269) 695-5001

Deputy Treasurer Laura Wise

Trustee David Zelmer(269) 695-5001Term expires November 2012

TrusteeTo be selected in Aug. 2 election

Assessor Angela Kirby, (269) 207-2590Building Inspector David Swanstrom,

(269) 684-5271Fire Chief Bill Knisely, (269) 698-6191Zoning Board Chair, Shirley Dodson,

(269) 695-5001Zoning Administrator Joseph Kring, (269)

695-9591

Niles Charter TownshipTownship hall320 Bell Rd., Niles, MI 49120.Phone: (269) 684-0870Fax: (269) 684-1996.Board meetings first and third Mondays of

the month at 7 p.m.Office hours: Monday through Friday,

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Website: www.nilestwpmi.gov

Supervisor Jim Kidwell2323 Bond St.(269) 684-7118Administrative Assistant Rebecca Hulett,

ext. 10

Clerk Marge Durm-Hiatt 123 Durm St.(269) 684-8848

Treasurer James Ringler107 Beeson Rd.(269) 683-8980

Trustee August Kuehn2053 Lake St.(269) 684-7808

Trustee Richard Noble1705 Southworth Drive(269) 684-221

Trustee Gary Conover1806 Niles-Buchanan Rd.(269) 683-6499

Trustee Richard Cooper1701 Ferry St.(269) 684-6699

Terms expire November 2012

Building Official Jeff Dunlap, (269)687-2741 ext. 18

DPW Manager Gary Schrader, (269)684-0870 ext. 26

Fire Chief Gary Brovold, (269) 683-3311

Parks, Becky Hulett, (269) 684-0870ext. 10

Assessor Carol Hill, (269) 684-0870ext. 25

Zoning Administrator StefanieWoodrick, (269) 687-2741 ext. 19

Police services/non-emergency, (866)630-7679

City of BuchananCity Hall302 North Redbud Trail, Buchanan, MI

49107(269) 695-3844www.cityofbuchanan.com

City Manager/Police Chief Bill Marx,[email protected]; (269) 695-5120 (non-emergency)

Clerk Gladys Bybee, [email protected]

Treasurer Juli O'Bryant, [email protected]

Assessor Gordon Schreiber,[email protected]; (269) 684-5274 ext. 821

Fire Department (269) 695-0007 (non-emergency)

City CommissionThe city commission meets the second

and fourth Mondays of the month at 7 p.m.at city hall.

Mayor Carla Cole (269) 695-3844Mayor Pro Tem Earl "Joe" Scanlon III

(269) 845-5860Commissioner Patricia Moore (269)

697-0350Commissioner Dave Hagey (269) 695-

3729Commissioner Michael Terrell (269)

921-3160

Buchanan TownshipTownship Hall15235 North Main St.Buchanan, MI 49107Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9

a.m. to 5 p.m.Phone: (269) 695-6442; fax, (269) 695-

7715.Website: www.buchanantownship.netSupervisor Jane A. Mitchell, 323 Able

Rd., Buchanan, MI 49107, (269) 697-8215.

Treasurer Janet L. Dehring, 12353Burgoyne Rd., Buchanan, MI 49107, (269)695-1861.

Trustee Lynn A. Ferris, 15229 NorthMain St., Buchanan, MI 49107, (269) 695-5008.

Trustee Brian Dinneen, 13078 CoveneyRd., Buchanan, MI 49107, (269) 695-5347.

Clerk Cathy Ganus, (269) 695-6442Fire Chief Timothy A. Jesswein, (269)

695-9385 (non-emergency)Assistant Fire Chief James A. MyersBuchanan Township Fire Department is

located at 15301 North Main St.Assessors: Nancy Williams, Angela

KirbyBuilding inspector: Chris Fuchs, (269)

471-2400Ordinance enforcement: Joe Kring,

(269) 695-9591

7Government

8 GovernmentCass County

Cass County Building(1899 Courthouse)120 North BroadwayCassopolis, MI 49031

Cass County Law and Courts Building60296 M-62Cassopolis, MI 49031

County office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.weekdays except holidays: New Year’s Day,Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day,Good Friday, Memorial Day,Independendence Day, Labor Day, VeteransDay, Thanksgiving Day, Day AfterThanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, ChristmasDay, New Year’s Eve.

Closed Saturdays.Board of Commissioners meet Thursdays

at 7:30 p.m.

Interim County Administrator/Controller Charles Clark

Administrative Assistant Tara Myer(269) [email protected] and Project Manager Sandy Gower,

[email protected]/benefits, Becky Moore(269) 445-4421

Information Systems Director KerryCollins

(269) 445-4488E-mail: [email protected] Director Jodi Nestich, (269) 445-

[email protected]

Website: www.casscountymi.orgRoad Commission: casscoroad.com

Board of CommissionersTwo-year terms expire 2010. The Board of

Commissioners grew from seven seats to 15in 2003 due to reapportionment.

District 1Ed Goodman, D55718 Sink Rd.Dowagiac, MI 49047(269) 782-3947 [email protected]

District 2Chairman Robert Wagel, R53725 O’Keefe Rd.Dowagiac, MI 49047(269) 782-6111 [email protected]

District 3Cathy Goodenough16466 McKenzie St.Marcellus, MI 49067

(269) 646-2044 [email protected]

District 4Bill Steele, D62507 South Shore DriveVandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-8870 home

District 5Gordon Bickel Sr., R11852 Shavehead Lake St.Constantine, MI 49042(269) 435-7057 [email protected]

District 6Charlie Arnold, R18275 Chapel Hill St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 641-5538 [email protected]

District 7David P. Taylor, D23501 Lakeview DriveEdwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 699-5544 [email protected]

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9GovernmentDistrict 8Carl D. Higley Sr., R26217 Redfield St.Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-2265 home

District 9Vice Chairman Ronald Francis, R20839 Decatur St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-3744 [email protected]

District 10Dixie Ann File, R20225 Kelsey Lake St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-2033 [email protected]

District 11E. Clark Cobb, D302 Green St.Dowagiac, MI 49047(269) [email protected]

District 12Minnie Warren, D56731 M-51 SouthDowagiac, MI 49047(269) 782-6829 home

[email protected]

District 13Johnie Rodebush, D2528 Gilbert St.Niles, MI 49120(269) 683-3223 [email protected]

District 14Debbie Johnson, D2211 Yankee St.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-6624 home

District 15Robert Ziliak, R2912 U.S. Highway 12 EastNiles, MI 49120(269) 663-0027 [email protected]

Other Cass County agencies and officials

Circuit Judge Michael E. Dodge, (269)445-4412

District Judge Stacey A. Rentfrow, (269)445-4424

Probate Judge Susan L. Dobrich, (269)445-4454

Friend of the Court Roland C. Fancher,(269) 445-4436

Prosecuting Attorney Victor Fitz, (269)445-4460

Chief Assistant Frank Machnik, (269) 445-4460

Chief Courthouse Security Officer GeorgeAdam, (269) 445-1142

Sheriff Joseph M. Underwood, (269) 445-8644

Undersheriff Richard J. Behnke, (269)445-8644

Road Patrol Capt. Lyndon Parrish, (269)445-8644

Community Corrections Beth Dodge,(269) 445-3877

Jail Section Capt. Richard Affriseo, (269)445-3877

Clerk/Register Barbara Runyon, (269)445-4464

Chief Deputy Clerk/Register MonicaKennedy, (269) 445-4464

County Treasurer Linda Irwin, (269) 445-4468

Chief Deputy Treasurer Diane Klapchuk,(269) 445-4468

Water Resources Commissioner BruceCampbell, (269) 445-4428

Veterans Counselor, (269) 445-4472Equalization Director Lesley Ramlow,

(866) 471-2900 ext. 7193Department of Human Services, (269)

445-0200

Cass County Public Transit (all of county but Dowagiac), (269)445-2455

Michigan State University Extension Director Dan Rajzer, (269)445-4438

Council on Aging, (269) 445-8110Animal Control Director Michael Grice, (269) 445-3701Cass District Library Director Jennifer Ray, (269) 445-3400Road Commission Manager Louis Csokasy, (269) 445-8611Parks Director Scott Wyman, (269) 445-8611Fair Association, (269) 445-8265Medical Care Facility Administrator Merri Terborgh, (269) 445-

3801Public Health Department, (269) 445-5280Woodlands Behavioral Healthcare Network, (269) 445-2451Human Services Coordinating Council, (269) 445-0269Emergency Management at 130 N. Broadway in Cassopolis, (269)

445-1560County Surveyor Roger Stephenson, (269) 445-8903; fax, 445-

8510Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Director James Ward

(269) 445-4431

City of Dowagiac

241 South Front St.City Hall, 782-2195Website: www.cityofdowagiac.com

Dowagiac’s 47th Mayor Donald D. Lyons, 204 West Telegraph St.,782-5698, was elected in November 1997.

City Manager Kevin Anderson started as Dowagiac’s ninth manag-er on Aug. 18, 2008.

Assistant City Manager Rozanne Scherr

City CouncilCity Council meets the second and fourth Mondays each month at

7 p.m. in its chambers on the second floor of the 1998 City Hall, 241S. Front St.

First WardLori Hunt, 118 Johnson St., was appointed June 25, 2007.Junior Oliver, 416 Chestnut St., 782-8984, was appointed Dec. 7,

2009.

Second WardSenior member Bob B. Schuur, 307 Center St., 782-2409, joined

council in 1985.James B. Dodd, 504 Spruce St., 782-9404, was appointed Dec. 7,

2009.

Third WardMayor Pro Tem Leon D. Laylin, 616 Helena, 782-7761, was elect-

ed in 1997.Dr. Charles Burling, 306 Willard St., 782-8097, was appointed

Sept. 8, 2003.Clerk James E. Snow was elected in 1983.Treasurer Robin Coffey was elected in 1997.Thomas Atkinson was appointed police chief in August 1997 and

added management of the Fire Department in 2008 as public servicesdirector.

Mark Westrate became city attorney in June 1982.James Bradford is city building inspector.Vickie Phillipson is program director for the Downtown

Development Authority and Greater Dowagiac Chamber ofCommerce.

Rozanne Scherr, HR Director/Assistant City Manager.Christopher Bolt, Public Services Director.

Silver Creek Township

Silver Creek’s board meets the second Wednesday each monthat 7 p.m.

Township hall: 32764 Dixon St. (P.O. Box 464), Dowagiac,(269) 424-3025; fax: 424-3858

E-mail: [email protected]: silvercreektwpmi.com Supervisor Bill J. Saunders, 424-3025Clerk Walter F. Lehmann, 424-3025Treasurer Maureen Kuriata, 424-3025Trustee Joel Moore, 424-3025Trustee Douglas M. Swisher, 424-3025Electrical Inspector Ed Goodman, 55718 Sink Rd., Dowagiac, 782-

3947Plumbing Inspector Ed Wainwright, P.O. Box 209, Edwardsburg,

(269) 663-8542Mechanical Inspector Ed Wainwright, P.O. Box 209, Edwardsburg,

(269) 663-8542Assessor William J. Kays, 72883 C.R. 687, Hartford, (269) 621-

3604Planning Commission Chairman Mike Glynn, 424-3025Board of Zoning Appeals Chairman Jerry Donley, 424-3025Building Inspector Todd Herter, 424-3125Zoning Administrator Ed Goodman, 55718 Sink Rd., Dowagiac,

782-3947 or 424-3125Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals both meet

monthly.Planning Commission meets last Wednesday monthly, 7 p.m.Board of Appeals meets first Wednesday monthly, 7 p.m., to con-

duct business as needed.Sister Lakes Area Utilities Authority, 424-6926

10 Government

William J. Kays, Chairman, P.O. Box 832, Dowagiac, MI 49047One voting precinct votes at the township hall.Township hall office hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noonBuilding/zoning department office hours: Tuesday, 6 to 9 p.m., and

Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon

Wayne Township

Wayne Township’s board meets the first Monday each month at7:30 p.m.

Township hall, 53480 Glenwood Rd., P.O. Box 304, Dowagiac,(269) 782-7017. Fax: (269) 782-7017.

One precinct votes at the Wayne Township hall.Supervisor Frank L. Butts, 26600 Dutch Settlement, (269) 782-

5250Clerk Kurt Reich, 24531 Hatch St., (269) 782-6555Treasurer Dawn R. King, 51327 Atwood Rd., Dowagiac, (269) 782-

3507Trustee James K. Griggs, 24060 Flanders St., Dowagiac, (269) 782-

7890Trustee Michael Krager Jr., 25201 Marquette Rd., Dowagiac, (269)

782-9631Building Inspector Don Herter, 53848 Indian Lake Rd., Dowagiac,

(269) 782-7827

Pokagon Township

Pokagon’s board meets the second Wednesday each month at7:30 p.m.

Township hall, 30683 Peavine St., Dowagiac, (269) 782-8756; fax,(269) 782-5446

Supervisor Linda Preston, 30683 Peavine St., Dowagiac, (269) 782-8756; e-mail, [email protected]

Clerk Carrie Sandberg, 30683 Peavine St., (269) 782-8756; [email protected]

Treasurer Kevin A. Young, 30683 Peavine St., Dowagiac, (269)782-8756; [email protected]

Trustee Robert N. Shaffer, 33053 Crystal Springs St., Dowagiac,(269) 684-6347

Trustee Gary Mihills, 61253 M-51, Niles, (269) 683-0382Building Inspector Don Herter, 53848 Indian Lake Rd., Dowagiac,

(269) 782-7827Zoning Administrator John True, 30683 Peavine St., Dowagiac;

(269) 782-8756Electrical Inspector Ken Simpson, 10349 Jones Rd., Berrien

Center, (269) 471-5869Mechanical/Plumbing Inspector Ed Wainwright, P.O. Box 209,

Edwardsburg, (269) 663-8542Assessor Bill Kays, 72883 C.R. 687, Hartford, MI 49057, (269)

621-3604Cemetery Sexton Doug Shaffer, 2295 Reynolds Rd., Niles, (269)

684-2176; e-mail [email protected] Commission meets quarterly in September, December,

March and June.The buiding inspector and zoning administrator are at the township

hall no Monday from 6:30 to 9 p.m.All voting precincts vote at the township hall.Zoning administrator, blight officer and building inspector are in

every Monday evening from 6:30 to 9 p.m.Assessor’s office hours are the first and third Monday every month.

Village of Vandalia

18035 State St.Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-2344; fax, (269) 476-2068Council meets second Monday at 7 p.m.

Village President Beverly L. Young60583 Spruce St., Box 145Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-2488

Village Treasurer Janet C. Walker19401 Mt. Zion St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-8330

Village Clerk Beth JamesP.O. Box 141Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-2374

Street Administrator Joe Evans18096 Fox St., Box 185Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-2239

Village Council

Theresa Damron19777 South Main St., Box 66Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-9303

Don Damron19777 South Main St., Box 66Vandalia, MI 49095269/476-9303cell: 598-0707

11Government

James Pogue60600 White Temple St., Box

127Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-2856

Rita AndersonBox 121Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-1751

Mary Rockett17899 Camplite St., Box 52Vandalia, MI 49095(269) 476-9549

ClerkKrista Jourdan

TreasurerSandra Bauer

AssessorShalice Northrop

Fire ChiefCraig Etter

Building InspectorTony Vaickus

Marcellus Township

Board meets third Tuesday at7 p.m.

Township hall: 13163Marcellus Highway, Marcellus.

P.O. Box 218(269) 646-2305 Supervisor John A. Grib,

10859 Pioneer St., Marcellus,(269) 646-9851.

Clerk Ann M. Webb, 185 S.Jones St., Box 218, Marcellus,(269) 646-5651.

Treasurer Shawnie J.Bainbridge, 11249 96th Ave.,Marcellus, (269) 646-0083.

Trustee Julia Birt, 50080 RedRun Rd., Marcellus, (269) 646-2637.

Trustee Ronald Kish, 51515Saddle Bag Lake Rd., Decatur,(269) 646-2619.

Assessor Shalice Northrop,P.O. Box 531, Marcellus, (269)646-2181.

Call for appointment.Building Inspector/Zoning

Administrator: MichiganTownship Services, (800)468-7170.

Planning Commission meets

the second Wednesday inJanuary, March, May, July,September and November at 7p.m. in the township hall.

Volinia Township

Board meets second Mondayat 7:30 p.m.

Township hall: GoodenoughRd., Marcellus.

Supervisor Wendy Elsey,54761 Lawrence St., Marcellus,(269) 646-9849.

Clerk Gwenn Johnson, 50357Decatur Rd., Decatur, (269) 423-8985.

Treasurer Esther M. Mead,53924 Gards Prairie Rd.,Decatur, (269) 782-2884.

Trustee Donald L. Huff, 19084Marcellus Highway, Marcellus,(269) 646-2503.

Trustee Harry Rasmussen III,54593 Gards Prairie Rd.,Cassopolis, (269) 782-5562.

Building Inspector CharlieHalifax, P.O. Box 531, (269)624-6387; fax, (269) 624-1818.


P l u m b i n g / M e c h a n i c a lInspector Ed Wainwright, (269)663-8542.

Planning Commission meetsas needed.

One precinct votes at thetownship hall.

Village of Cassopolis

Village Hall117 South Broadway, second

floor-suite 100, Cassopolis, MI49031

Phone: (269) 445-8648; fax,(269) 445-2052.

Village CouncilCouncil meets the second

Monday at 7 p.m.President Clare Mallo240 North Rowland St., 445-

3955Pro-Tem Robert Yoder212 West York, 445-8936Trustee Brittany P. BeauchampTrustee Dianna McGrewTrustee Leon GilliamTrustee Tex E. SheteronTrustee Geraldine Norwood-

Sims

Appointed administrativeofficials

Manager Meg CluckeyTreasurer Maxine SnipesClerk Judith Hartman

Police Chief Frank Williams Jr.

DPW Superintendent RonaldBass, 445-8648

Fire Chief Jeff LockeElectrical Inspector Ron

BellairePlumbing Inspector Ed

WainwrightAssessor Bill Kays, (269) 621-

3604Building Inspector Lennel

SmithOrdinance Enforcement Gary

McGrew

Calvin TownshipTownship BoardBoard meets the second

Tuesday at 6 p.m., William J.Robinson Community Building,18727 Mt. Zion St., Cassopolis.

Phone: (269) 476-2620; fax,(269) 476-1539

E-mail: [email protected] Adrienne Glover,

63602 Calvin Center Rd.,Cassopolis,(269) 476-9633.

Clerk Leozie S. Broadnax,18334 Calvin Hill St.,Cassopolis, (269) 641-5223.

Treasurer Rosemary Gillam,62507 South Shore Drive,Vandalia, (269) 362-0674.

Trustee Rebecca Mitchell,62310 Lincoln Ave., Vandalia,(269) 476-2812.

Trustee Keith Carter, (269)476-2220


Building Inspector LennellSmith, 65817 Tharp Lake Rd.,Cassopolis, (269) 476-8865.

P l u m b i n g / M e c h a n i c a lInspector Ed Wainwright, 26800Bridgewater Center, Elkhart,Ind., (269) 663-8542.

Electrical Inspector JackHughes; Ron Bellaire, assistant;17819 Tharp Lake Rd.,Cassopolis, (269) 641-7280.

Township Attorney, Bakersand Daniels, LLP, 205 WestJefferson Blvd., Suite Oneprecinct votes at township hall,18727 Mt. Zion, Cassopolis.

Village of Marcellus

Marcellus Village Hall177 East Main St.P.O. Box 429(269) 646-5485Fax: (269) 646-0065e-mail: clerk@villageofmar-

cellus.orgOffice hours: Monday-

Friday, 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1

• Beckwith Park Summer Concert Series

• Sister Lakes Fireworks & Bigfoot Fourth of July Parade & Lake Festival, July 2

• Sister Lakes Triathlon & Relay, July 23

• Summer in the City Festival, July 28-30

• Rod & Roll Classic Auto Show, Aug. 20

• Open House Weekend, Nov. 18-20

• Candle-light Christmas Parade, Dec. 2

• Ice Time Festival 2012, February 4

www.CityOfDowagiac.comwww.DowagiacChamber.com

Enjoy great shopping & dining, museums to explore, beautifullakes, seasonal events, the fine arts & so much more…

12 Government

ur electric utility “turns on” our community with not-for-profit electricityservice. Around the clock it lights, cooks,cools, heats and powers our homes, businesses, and institutions.

Our aim is to provide always-there electricity whileholding down your costs, and giving you the best customer care. That’s because we’re a not for-profit“public power” electric utility, created and owned byour community.

City of Niles Utilities Department

(269) 683-4700

Your community-owned electric utility is at your service.

O

We “Turn On”Our Community

13Governmentto 4:30 p.m.

Village CouncilCouncil meets the second and

fourth Thursdays at 5 p.m.

President Jody Schick163 E. Readcell 506-9211Term expires November 2012

Pro-Tem James Thomas Sr.503 Worden(269) 646-2555Term expires November 2012

Peggy Dentler575 S. Snyder St.(269) 646-5485Term expires November 2014

Burke Webb185 S. Jones(269) 646-5651Term expires November 2014

Ann Simmons400 South St.(269) 646-9632Term expires November 2014

Mike Ludlow181 Frank Townsend St.(269) 646-7025Term expires November 2012

ClerkKrista Jourdan

TreasurerSandra Bauer

AssessorShalice Northrop

Fire ChiefJohn Bates

Building InspectorTony Vaickus, (269) 624-6387

Jefferson TownshipBoard of Trustees meets the

second Thursday of every monthat 7:30 p.m. at the township hall,24725 Jefferson Center St.,Cassopolis.

Website: www.jeffersontown-shiponline.org

Mail: P.O. Box 188,Cassopolis, MI 49031

Phone: (269) 445-3941; fax,(269) 445-8274

Office hours: Mondays, 9a.m.-5 p.m.; and Wednesdays, 9a.m.-2 p.m.

Supervisor Jeffrey A. Carmen,67269 N. Shore Drive,Edwardsburg, MI 49112; (269)

699-7642; e-mail, [email protected].

Clerk Leroy McNeary, 67671M-62, Edwardsburg, (269) 663-2358.

Treasurer Carlotta Kirstein, e-mail, [email protected].

Trustee Flena Rubalcaba,26267 M-60 West, Cassopolis;(269) 445-8834.

Trustee Dean M. Hass, 22291Kamp Kozy, Cassopolis, (269)445-3978.

Assessor Bill Kays, 72883C.R. 687, Hartford, MI 49057;(269) 621-3604.

Building and ZoningAdministrator Gerry Hart, P.O.Box 24, Cassopolis, (269) 476-9883

Township Office ManagerMary Brown, (269) 687-9588

One precinct votes at thetownship hall for all elections,including school elections.

Planning Commission meetsthe third Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.,ever other month.

LaGrange TownshipBoard meets the third Tuesday

at 7:30 p.m.

Township Hall 58253 M-62, Cassopolis.Mailing address: 24745 Cass

St. CassopolisSupervisor Robert K. Wright,

61317 Spencer Rd., Cassopolis,(269) 445-0625; e-mail, [email protected].

Clerk Amy J. Juroff, 24745Cass St., Cassopolis, (269) 782-5939; e-mail,[email protected].

Treasurer Naomi J. Criswell,61078 Spencer Rd., Cassopolis,(269) 445-3590; fax, (269) 445-0164.

Trustee Jay W. Brackensick,27357 Peavine St., Dowagiac,(269) 783-0264.

Assessor William Kays,72883 C.R. 687, Hartford; (269)621-3604.

Zoning Administrator BruceVosburgh, (269) 684-5166 or(888) 684-5166.

Building Inspector DaveRigozzi, (269) 427-9265.

All building inspector requestsgo through the zoning adminis-trator first.

Planning Commission meetsthe second Wednesday inFebruary, May, August andNovember at 7 p.m.

All voting precincts are atCass District Library, 319 M-62,

14 GovernmentCassopolis.

Newberg TownshipBoard meets: second Monday, 7 p.m.

Township Hall13020 Born St., P.O. Box 37, Jones.Newberg Township Fire and EMS

Department11900 McKinley St., P.O. Box 257 Jones,

MI 49061Phone: (269) 244-8747; fax, (269) 244-

8747.Supervisor Bill “Willis” Norton, 10851

Bald Hill St., Three Rivers, (269) 244-8452.Clerk Korine Bachleda, 59950 County

Line Rd., Three Rivers, MI 49093, (269) 506-8334; e-mail, [email protected].

Treasurer Nancy Hotovy, 11645 Bald HillRd., Jones, (269) 244-5345; fax, (269) 244-5345.

Trustee Jim Rifenberg, 113044 Bald HillSt., Jones, (269) 244-5750

Trustee Barbara Stephens, 10658 HarwoodLake Rd., Three Rivers, (269) 244-1996.

Electrical Inspector Jack Hughes, 17817Tharp Lake Rd., Cassopolis, (269) 641-7280.

Mechanical/Plumbing Inspector EdWainwright, 26252 U.S. 12, Edwardsburg,(269) 663-8542.

Assessor Shalice Northrop, P.O. Box 531,

Marcellus, (269) 646-2181.Building Inspector Tony Vaickus, P.O. Box

860, 88040 M-40, Lawton, (269) 624-6387;fax, (269) 624-1817

Cemetery Sexton Jim Rifenberg, (269)244-5750.

One precinct votes at the township hall.

Penn TownshipTownship hall60717 South Main St., VandaliaPhone: (269) 476-2173Fax: (574) 522-3032, attention Lisa

Board meets the second Monday at6:30 p.m.

Supervisor Dick Mickey, 16387 HideawayDrive, Vandalia, (269) 476-8866

Clerk Lisa Fitzsimons, 61273 AlexanderDrive, Vandalia, (269) 476-2173; e-mail,[email protected]

Treasurer Paul Rutherford, 16785 DonnellLake St., Vandalia, (269) 476-9766; e-mail,[email protected]

Trustee Roger W. Leach, 21174 Fox St.,Cassopolis, (269) 445-0890

Trustee Lee Sparks, 59096 Penn Rd.,Cassopolis, (269) 476-9728

Building Inspector Bill Steele, 62507South Shore Drive, Vandalia, (269) 476-8870

Electrical Inspector Ron Bellaire, 66751Conrad Rd., Edwardsburg, (269) 663-3429

Mechanical/Plumbing Inspector EdWainwright, 26252 U.S. Highway 12,Edwardsburg, (269) 663-8542

Assessor Rick Ryker, 51107 WoodcliffCourt, Granger, Ind., (574) 271-8436

One precinct votes at Penn Township Hall.

Village of Edwardsburg26296 U.S. Highway 12P.O. Box 596Edwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 663-8484Fax: (269) 663-8688

Edwardsburg Village Council meets thethird Monday at 7 p.m.

Village Council

President James RobinsonP.O. Box 21Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-6845Four-year term expires 2012

Treasurer Mary Ann Schoenfeld68835 Lake St.Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-2056

15GovernmentAppointment expires 2012

Clerk Bernadine Tilbury20380 Old 205Edwardsburg, MI 49112cell: (269) 591-0175Appointment expires 2012

Trustee Jacque TigheP.O. Box 522Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-5955 (work)Appointment expires 2014

Trustee Toby (T.J.) Stahly68968 Elkhart Rd.Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-8877Appointment expires 2014

Trustee Scott MacklingP.O. Box 691Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-8324Appointment expires 2012

Trustee Nancy Stoner69079 Elkhart Rd.,Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-6835Appointment expires 2012

Trustee Kent Hanson

27011 Washington Blvd. Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-5515Appointment expires 2012

Trustee Patricia Bellaire26903 Main St.Edwardsburg, MI 49112(269) 663-0214Appointment expires 2014

Mason TownshipBoard meets second Tuesday at 7 p.m.Township hall: 17049 U.S. Highway 12

(southwest corner at Kessington Road),Edwardsburg

Office hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ThursdayBuilding department hours: 7-8 p.m.

Thursday at the township hallPhone: (269) 641-5923Fax: (269) 641-5718Website: www.masontwp.orgSupervisor John Brandt, (269) 699-7671Clerk Janet Dull, (269) 641-5726Treasurer Arlene M. Chew, (269) 699-

7388Trustee Jerry Myers, (269) 641-5923Trustee David Allen, (269) 641-5923

Milton TownshipBoard meets third Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Township Hall32097 Bertrand St., Niles.Phone: (269) 684-7262; fax, (269) 684-

1742.Office hours: Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to

5 p.m., and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.www.miltontwp.orgGeneral e-mail: [email protected]

Supervisor Robert Benjamin, (269) 262-0111, [email protected]

Clerk Mike W. Layher, (269) 684-7262;[email protected].

Treasurer Linda DeBroka, (269) 684-7262;[email protected].

Trustee Sharon Ward, (269) 683-9505;[email protected]

Trustee Don Kronewitter, (269) 684-0467;[email protected]

Assessor Douglas Brousseau, (269) 699-7619. Office hours: 9 a.m. to noon Thursdayat Ontwa Township Hall.

Planning Commission meets every firstMonday at 6:30 p.m.

Zoning administrator/enforcement, Paul J.Sniadecki (269) 329-8320.

One precinct votes at Milton TownshipHall.

Planning CommissionMeets first Monday of every month at

6:30 p.m.Chair Kelly Sweeney, (269)

683-2564

Township inspectorsBuilding Inspector Wayne

Hardin, office hours Tuesday,Thursday and Saturday, 9 a.m. tonoon, at Ontwa Township Hall;(269) 663-2347

Electrical Inspector JohnnyHamilton, (269) 684-7848

Mechanical Inspector DaveSwanstrom, P.O. Box 741, Niles,(269) 684-5271

Plumbing Inspector EdWainwright, P.O. Box 209,Edwardsburg, MI 49112; (269)663-8542

Smith Chapel29858 Redfield Rd., Niles MI

49120Smith Chapel Historical

Commission(269) 932-5242/(269) 663-

8423 or e-mail: [email protected]

Porter TownshipBoard meets second Tuesday,

7 p.m.

Township hall: 69373Baldwin Prairie Rd., P.O. Box517, Union

Hours: Monday throughFriday, 10 a.m. to noon, 1 to 4p.m.

Phone: (269) 641-2375; fax,(269) 641-2571

Supervisor Dan Harvey, P.O.Box 517, Union, (269) 641-2375

Clerk Marty Russell, P.O. Box517, Union, (269) 641-2375

Treasurer Helen Croninger,P.O. Box 517, Union, (269) 641-2375

Trustee Steve Northrup, P.O.Box 517, Union, (269) 641-2375

Trustee Leard WylieBuilding Inspector Rich

Drews, (269) 476-8887Electrical Inspector Jack

Hughes, 17819 Tharp Lake Rd.Cassopolis, (269) 641-7280

M e c h a n i c a l / P l u m b i n gInspector Ed Wainwright, 26800Bridgewater Court, Elkhart, Ind.,(269) 663-8542

Zoning Administrator ConnieDalrymple, P.O. Box 55, Union,(269) 641-7182

Cemetery Sexton ScottKnepple, (269) 476-9327

Zoning Planning, Zoning

Board, Zoning Board of Appeals,Chairman Dave Nagy, 65908Lakeview, Vandalia 49095, (269)476-7043 [email protected]

Assessor Doug Brousseau,P.O. Box F, Edwardsburg, (269)699-7619; fax, (269) 699-7436

Precinct 1 votes at townshipadministration building.

Precinct 2 votes at PorterTownship Fire Department.

Ontwa TownshipTownship hall26225 U.S. Highway 12P.O. Box 209Edwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 663-2347Fax: (269) 663-0072Office hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.,

Monday-Friday

Board meets the secondMonday at 7 p.m.

Supervisor John A.Brielmaier

68396 Third St., Edwardsburg(269) 699-7211(574) [email protected]

Clerk Paula Ralph24333 Sassafras(269) [email protected]

Treasurer Meryl Christensen69844 Elkhart Rd.(269) [email protected]

Trustee Jerry L. Duck23694 S. Shore Drive(269) [email protected]

Trustee Jeffrey T. Kozinski70116 Sheridan Drive(269) [email protected]

Trustee Norman Krupp27082 Redfield St.(269) [email protected]

Trustee Jerry Marchetti68222 Christiana Drive(269) 699-7660cell, (269) [email protected]

Building Administrator/ ZoningAdministrator: Wayne Hardin

Building inspector and zoningadministrator office hours:Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 9a.m. to noon. Phone: (269) 663-2347

Electrical Inspector JohnHamilton, 32655 Bertrand Rd.,

Niles, (269) 684-7848M e c h a n i c a l / P l u m b i n g

Inspector Ed Wainwright, (269)663-5842 (Office at OntwaTownship Hall)

Assessor Douglas Brousseau,P.O. Box F, Edwardsburg. Phone:(269) 663-2347. Hours: Thursday,9 a.m. to noon. Fax: (269) 699-7436

Planning Commission meetsthe first Wednesday each month at7 p.m. at the township hall

Zoning Board of Appeals meetssecond and fourth Tuesdays at 7p.m. at the township hall

Both voting precincts cast bal-lots at the township hall.

Howard TownshipBoard meets third Tuesday at 7

p.m.Township office: 1345 Barron

Lake Rd., NilesPhone: (269) 684-0072; fax:

(269) 684-6181Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday,

Thursday, Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Supervisor Ron Fazi, 1345

Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Clerk Sheri Wozniak, 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Treasurer Jan Gordon, 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Trustee Craig Bradfield., 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Trustee Hank Johnson, 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Trustee Dennis Patterson, 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Trustee Irving Frost Jr., 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles, (269) 684-0072

Assessor Jerry Thibodeau, 1758South Ninth St., Kalamazoo,49909-7907, (269) 353-9193.

Mechanical/Building InspectorDave Swanstrom, P.O. Box 741,Niles, (269) 684-5271

Electrical Inspector RonBellaire, (269) 663-3429

Plumbing Inspector EdWainwright, (269) 663-8542

Parks board meets firstMonday, 7 p.m.

Planning Commission willmeet for the 2011 year in February,March, August and November.

Zoning Appeals Board meetslast Tuesday, 7:30 p.m., if calledby chairman.

Precinct 1 votes at the HowardTownship business office, 1345Barron Lake Rd., Niles.

Precinct 2 votes at the HowardTownship Fire Department, corner

18 Government

of M-60 and Barron Lake Road.Precinct 3 votes at Howard

Community Hall, 1400 BarronLake Rd., Niles.

Berrien RegionalEducation Service Agency

711 St. Joseph Ave.Berrien Springs, MI 49103-1583(269) 471-7725(269) 471-2941 faxWebsite: www.berrienresa.org

Berrien RESA’s Mission:"To provide programs and

services to our constituent schooldistricts which enhance learningopportunities for all students."

Website: www.berrienresa.org.

Program Centers

Mathematics and ScienceCenter

Andrews University Campus-Smith Hall

(269) 471-6557The Berrien County

Mathematics and Science Centeris a specialized half-day programwhere students, grades 9 through12, are offered accelerated cours-es in math, science and technolo-gy. This program is offered toschool districts in Berrien andCass counties in Michigan andserves about 115 students.Admission is highly competitive.

Blossomland Learning Center711 St. Joseph Ave.Berrien Springs, MI 49103-

1583(269) 473-2600Blossomland Learning Center

provides comprehensive pro-grams and therapeutic servicesfor severely multiply impairedand moderate to severe cognitive-ly impaired students, ages 3 to26.

Blossomland Learning Centeralso offers three off-site programslocated in Niles and St. Joseph.

Lighthouse Education Center379 West Glenlord Rd.St. Joseph, MI 49085(269) 429-2351 Lighthouse Education Center

is a center-based special educa-tion facility designed to provideprograms and related services tomeet the education requirementsof severely emotionally impaired

and autistic impaired students.The center emphasizes positivereinforcement, personal responsi-bility, appropriate decision mak-ing skills and the development ofsocially acceptable behavior.

Juvenile Center6414 Deans Hill Rd.Berrien Center, MI 49102(269) 429-2351In cooperation with the

Berrien County Family Court, theBerrien RESA operates an educa-tional program at the JuvenileDetention Center. The programprovides educational services tostudents who may remain in thecenter from a few days to severalmonths.

Berrien RESA Board ofEducation

President-Sharon KallingVice President -Cathy J. BairSecretary-Tom FanningTreasurer-Linda HoltTrustee-J. Allene Smith

The board meets the secondWednesday of each month.

Administration (269) 471-7725Superintendent Kevin M.

Ivers, ext. 1150Assistant Superintendent Jim

Palm, ext. 1148Director, Business and

Finance, Gustave "Gus"Damaske, ext. 1155

Director, Human ResourcesLynda Hurlow, ext. 1102

Director, Special Education,Stephanie Mack, ext. 1146

Director, Data Processing,Will Townsley, ext. 1187

Director, Career/TechnicalEducation, Dr. Brian Pyles, ext.1115

Director, Instruction ServicesBecky Meier, ext. 1190

Director, Learning andLeadership, Eric Hoppstock, ext.1342

Niles CommunitySchools

Address: 111 Spruce St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-0732Superintendent: Richard

Weigel District serves: 3,743 studentsWebsite: www.nilesschools.org

AdministratorsDirector of Personnel

John Tanke, (269) 683-6662Director of Business/FinanceTom Skarbek, (269) 683-0734Director of InstructionDan Applegate, (269) 683-

0736Director of Special EducationDan Applegate, (269) 683-

0757Director of Technology/Media

Services Dave DelMuro, (269) 683-

6031Board of Education membersDirector of Non-Traditional

EducationRich Klemm, (269) 684-9554

Dana Daniels1211 Walnut St.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-6087term expires: June 30, 2015

Michael Dreher 1535 Echo Valley DriveNiles, MI 49120(269) 683-0661term expires: June 30, 2012

Mark Wortham33117 Pokagon Hwy.

Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-5844term expires: June 30, 2014

Michael Waldron1001 WesawNiles, MI 49120(269) 684-1981term expires: June 30, 2015

Greg O'Toole1630 Cass St.Niles, Mi. 49120(269) 684-7364term expires: June 30, 2013

Kathy Zeider1157 Fort St.Niles, Mi. 49120(269) 683-0454term expires: June 30, 2012

Jeff Curry103 Hummingbird Lane.Niles, MI 49120269-6874545term expires: June 30, 2014

Location of school board meeting The Niles Community Schools

Board of Education regular meet-ings are the third Monday of each

19Schools

20 Schoolsmonth at 7 p.m and the agenda planning meet-ings are the first Monday of each month at5:30 p.m.

The meetings are held in the CarlsonLecture Hall at the Westside AdministrationBuilding, 111 Spruce St., unless otherwiseindicated.

Niles High SchoolAddress: 1441 Eagle St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-2894Principal: Jim KnollAssistant Principals: Molly Brawley, Chris

PorterGrades served: 9-12Approximate number of students: 1,006School mascot: VikingsSchool colors: blue and gold

Niles New Tech Entrepreneurial AcademyAddress: 1441 Eagle St.Niles, MI 49120Dean of Students: Patrick MalleyGrades served: 9-12Approximate number of students: 125School mascot: VikingsSchool colors: blue and gold

Ring Lardner Middle SchoolAddress: 801 N. 17th St.Niles, MI 49120

Phone: (269) 683-6610Principal: Doug LangmeyerAssistant Principal: Yvonne McCleanGrades served: 7-8Approximate number of students served: 529School mascot: VikingsSchool colors: blue and gold

Northside Child Development CenterAddress: 2020 North Fifth St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-1982Principal: Cindy WickhamGrades served: preschool-kindergartenApproximate number of students served: 300School colors: blue and white

Ballard ElementaryAddress: 1601 Chicago Rd.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-5900Principal: David EichenbergGrades served: K-5Approximate number of students served: 801School mascot: BulldogsSchool colors: green and white

Howard ElementaryAddress: 2740 Mannix St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-4633

Principal: Michelle AusmusAssistant Principal: Zech HoytGrades served: K-5Approximate number of students served: 592School mascot: BearsSchool colors: blue and gold

Eastside Connections SchoolAddress: 315 North 14th St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 687-0734Grades Served: K-5 Approximate number of students served: 150

James Ellis SchoolAddress: 2788 Mannix St.Niles, MI 49120Principal: Michelle AsmusGrades served: K-1Approximate number of students served: 234School mascot: BearsSchool colors: blue and gold

Oak Manor Sixth Grade CenterAddress: 1 Tyler St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-7484Principal: Robin HadrickGrades served: SixthApproximate number of students served: 279

Making a decision about where you send your child to school is about more than text-books, bricks, and mortar. It is about providing the vital preparation necessary to ensure success as they take their place in the world. At Niles Community Schools your child is important to us. You are important to us. We will work together in the education of your child. We offer programs designed for 21st Century Learning.

• Kindergarten Options: Every day kindergarten with the option of all day or half day • W-A-Y Program: Students become researchers as they complete their high school credit at home with an iMac workstation and Internet connectivity both of which are provided by Niles Community Schools. There is one (1) teacher available online or in our learning lab for every six (6) researchers to provide educational support. • Niles New Tech Entrepreneurial Academy offers one of the most exciting new concepts in secondary education with Project Based Learning and One-to-One Laptops • Niles High School offers every student the option to take any class in any content as a virtual learning experience at no cost to the student • Eastside Connections School is a magnet school grades K-5 focusing on high student achievement and a rich culture of high expectations

NILES COMMUNITY SCHOOLS111 Spruce StreetNiles, MI 49120

www.nilesschools.org269.683.0732

21Schools

Southside SchoolAddress: 1450 Silverbrook Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-0421Principal: Adrienne BlantonGrades served: Special education through

age 26Approximate number of students served: 64

Cedar Lane Alternative High SchoolAddress: 2301 Niles-Buchanan Rd.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-9554Principal: Rich KlemmGrades served: 9-12Approximate number of students served: 79

Niles Adult EducationAddress: 111 Spruce St.Niles, MI 491120Phone: (269) 684-4480Administrator: Rich KlemmAdult EducationApproximate number of students served: 150

Brandywine CommunitySchools

Address: 1830 South Third St.

Niles, MI 49120Phone number: (269) 684-7150District serves: 1,440Website: www.brandywinebobcats.org

AdministratorsSuperintendent: John Jarpe Director of Finance and Operations: Kathy HolyInfornational Systems Director: Doug FoxMaintenance/Transportation Director: David

SeidnerFood Service Director: Carole Easton

Board of Education members

James Curran 1347 LaSalle Ave.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-7084term expires: June 2014

Dennis Cooper1540 Ferndale Blvd.Niles, MI 49120(269) 683-8157term expires: June 2015

Dennis Hinsey2995 Portage Rd.Niles, MI 49120(269) 683-8552

term expires: June 2013

Robb DeJonge33138 Old Post Rd.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-4420term expires: June 2012

Janis Exner315 OntarioNiles, MI 49120(269) 683-7279term expires: June 2012

J. Michael Shelton2455 Portage Rd.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-0592term expires: June 2014

Doris Schoenleber1550 S. 13th St.Niles, MI 49120 (269) 683-5488term expires: June 2013

Location of school board meeting The Brandywine Community Schools Board

of Education meetings are held on the secondand fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Themeetings are held in the Bell Education Center

22 SchoolsConference Room, unless otherwise indicated.

Brandywine Middle/Senior High SchoolAddress: 1700 Bell Rd.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-4800Grades served: 7-12Principal: Patrick WeckelApproximate number of students served: 620School mascot: BobcatSchool colors: maroon and gold

Bell Education CenterAddress: 1830 South Third St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-8805Grades served: 9-adultAlternative/Adult Education Program

Director: Michelle WrubleApproximate number of students served: 80

Brandywine ElementaryAddress: 2428 South 13th St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-8574Grades served: 3-6Principal: Tim BagbyApproximate number of students served: 401

Merritt ElementaryAddress: 1620 LaSalle Ave.

Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-6511Grades served: Pre-K-2Principal: Karen WeimerApproximate number of students served: 340

Buchanan Community Schools

Address: 401 West Chicago St. Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-8401Superintendent: Andrea van der LaanBusiness manager: Richard BellDistrict serves: 1,677website: www.buchananschools.com

General correspondence can be sent to:401 West Chicago St., Buchanan, MI 49107

School Board

President: Tom Gordon13625 Indian Springs Rd.Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-9286

Vice President: Harvey Burnett322 Cecil St.Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 697-4604

Secretary: Karen Worvey

510 Middleton Ct.Buchanan, MI 49107(269)695-2703

Treasurer: Lloyd Miller4561 River Pointe Blvd.Niles, MI. 49120(269) 695-3309

Trustee: Harvey Burnett322 Cecil St.Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 697-4604

Trustee: Sandy Tobler14692 Range Line Rd.Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-6963

Trustee: James DeVlaminick

Location of school board meeting The board meets at various buildings in dis-

trict, the third Monday at 6 p.m.

Buchanan High SchoolAddress: 401 W. ChicagoBuchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-8403Principal: Sharon SteinkeGrades served: 9-12approximate number of students: 500

23School mascot: BuckSchool colors: Maroon and

whiteBuchanan Middle SchoolAddress: 610 W. Fourth St.(269) 695-8406Principal: Mark KurlandGrades served: 6-8Approximate number of stu-

dents: 384School mascot: BuckSchool colors: Maroon and

white

Ottawa Elementary SchoolAddress: 109 Ottawa St. Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-8409Principal: Karin FalkensteinGrades served: K-5Approximate number of stu-

dents: 285School mascot: OtterSchool colors: Maroon and

white

Stark Elementary SchoolAddress: 502 Claremont St. Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-8407Principal: Karla HurlbuttApproximate number of stu-

dents: 193School mascot: Shooting starSchool colors: Maroon and

White

Moccasin Elementary SchoolAddress: 410 Moccasin Ave.Buchanan, MI 49107(269) 695-8408Principal: Mark NixonGrades served: preschool-5Approximate number of stu-

dents: 313School mascot: IndianSchool colors: Maroon and

White

Niles Adventist SchoolAddress: 110 Fairview Ave.Niles, MI 49120(269) 683-5444Grades served: K-8Principal: Michael JakobsonsApproximate number of students

served: 55Website: www.niles22.adven-

tistschoolconnect.org

Board of Education12 members appointed by

churchMeetings are held on the third

Tuesday of month at 7 p.m. at theschool.

Why I Love Southwest Michigan

Name: Breanna LugardioAge: 17City of residence: BuchananJob: LandscapingWhy do you like living in southwest Michigan?I like the summer weather and the nice peopleWhat are some of your favorite places nearby?Fullers and Red BudWhat is the area’s best-kept secret? Warren Dunes

Name: Kelly ThompsonAge: 43City of residence: NilesWhy do you like living in southwest Michigan? The concerts at Riverfront ParkWhat are some of your favorite places nearby? Riverfront Park and St. Joseph for the Venetian FestivalWhat is the area’s best-kept secret? The summer concert series at Riverfront Park

St. Mary’s CatholicSchool

Address: 217 South Lincoln Ave.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-9191Grades served: preschool-6Principal: Sharon GregorskiApproximate number of stu-

dents served: 115School mascot: LionsSchool colors: blue and goldWebsite: www.stmarysniles

.com

Lewis Cass IntermediateSchool District

Administrative offices61682 Dailey Rd.Cassopolis, MI 49031Phone: (269) 445-3891Fax: (269) 445-2981

SuperintendentRobert ColbyOffice: (269) [email protected]

PresidentDon Curtis88541 C.R. 652Marcellus, MI 49067(269) 646-2113Term expires: July 2013

Vice PresidentAnn Simmons400 East South St.Lot 39Marcellus, MI 49067(269) 646-9632Term expires: July 2015

Treasurer

Patricia Adams70904 Ridgewood DriveEdwardsburg, MI 49112Term expires: July 2011

SecretaryDavid Gordon

TrusteeJoseph Underwood26330 Beeson St.Dowagiac

Dowagiac UnionSchools

Address: 206 Main St.,Dowagiac MI 49047

Phone: (269) 782-4400Website: www.dowagiac-

schools.org

Superintendent To Be Determined

Assistant SuperintendentBusiness/Operations

Hal Davis

Assistant SuperintendentCurriculum/Instruction

Patti Brallier

The Board of Education meetsthe third Monday of each month,Dowagiac Middle School, 7 p.m.

School Board MembersRandy Cuthbert 54501 Griffis Rd., Cassopolis (269) 782-2048Term expires: 2011

Mark Dobberstein 27611 Mathews St., Dowagiac (269) 782-4177

Term expires: 2012

Sherry File 57808 M-62 West, Cassopolis (269) 782-8767Term expires: 2011

Michelle Helmuth 57250 Wilbur Hill Rd.,

Dowagiac(269) 591-1176Term expires: 2013

Stacy Leversen 29401 Pine Row Trail,

Dowagiac (269) 782-0717Term expires: 2012

Larry Seurynck 55945 Inn-D-Inn, Dowagiac (269) 782-2559Term expires: 2014

Julia Smith23705 McKenzie St.,

Dowagiac(269) 783-0991Term expires: 2014

Union High SchoolPaul Hartsig, Principal 701 West Prairie Ronde,

DowagiacGeneral Office: (269) 782-

4420Attendance: (269) 782-4422Guidance: (269) 782-4424Serves Grades 9-12School Mascot: Chieftains School Colors: Orange and

BlackDowagiac Middle SchoolMike Frazier, Co-PrincipalMatt Severin, Co-Principal57072 Riverside Drive,

Dowagiac General Office: (269) 782-

4440Serves Grades 6-8

Justus Gage ElementarySchool

Marcy Hendress, Principal301 Oak St., Dowagiac General Office: (269) 782-

4460Serves Grades K-5

Kincheloe Elementary SchoolDawn Conner, Principal25121 Gage Street, Dowagiac General Office: (269) 782-


Patrick HamiltonElementary School

Heather Nash, Principal614 Spruce St., DowagiacGeneral Office: (269) 782-


Sister Lakes ElementarySchool

Principal (to be determined)68079 M-152, Benton HarborGeneral Office: (269) 782-


Pathfinders Alternative/Adult Education

Randy Yoder, Director501 North Paul St., Dowagiac General Office: (269) 782-

4471Serves Grades 9-12 and GED

Calvary BibleAcademy

27032 Marcellus Highway(269) 782-7296Principal: Pastor Stacey WilderGrades served: K-12Students 18School mascot: lionSchool colors: maroon and

grayWebsite: calvarybible.cmynew

.com

St. John’s LutheranSchool

603 McCleary St., Dowagiac(269) 782-3771Principal: Ryan StanglGrades served: 3-year-old pre-

school through 8, plus day careStudents: 59School mascot: TigersSchool colors: orange and

blackThis summer St. John’s will be

adding on two more classroomsto expand the daycare program.

Cassopolis PublicSchools

63700 Brick Church Rd.,Cassopolis, MI 49031

26 Schools

Administration officePhone: (269) 445-0500Fax: (269) 445-0505District serves: 1,259School mascot: RangerSchool colors: blue and whiteWebsite: www.cassopolis.k12

.mi.us

AdministrationSuperintendent: Gregory

WeatherspoonParadise Lake, Vandalia, (269)

445-0503Time and location of school

board meetings: Second andfourth Mondays of the month inthe Library of Ross Beatty Jr./Sr.High School, beginning at 7 p.m.

Cassopolis Board ofEducation

(Terms are for four years)President: Christine Locke61259 Frances St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-2123

Secretary: Susan LynnHorstmann

62056 Carlton DriveCassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-8152Term expires: July 2013

Trustee: George Calvert240 North O’Keefe St.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-2364Term expires: July 2013

Trustee: Janet Hall21266 Sail Bay DriveCassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-2701

Trustee: Scott Ward20290 M-60 EastCassopolis, MI 49031(269) 445-2016Term expires July 2013

Trustee: Jason Pompey58830 Gards Prairie Rd.Cassopolis, MI 49031(269) 506-9782

Vice President: Jeremy Carlisle61290 Mary Lou LaneCassopolis, MI 49031(269) 506-3240

Location of school boardmeetings

The Cassopolis School Boardmeets on the second and fourthMonday of the month in the RossBeatty High School Library at 7p.m.

Ross Beatty Junior/Senior

High SchoolDiamond Cove, Cassopolis,

MIphone (269) 445-0540, (269)

445-0541fax (269) 445-3112Grades 7-12Principals: Hiawatha

Francisco, Tracy Herstel

Sam Adams ElementarySchool

101 S. East Street, Cassopolis,MI

phone (269) 445-0530fax; (269) 445-0521Principal: Dee Melville-VossGrades K-6

Alternative/Adult EducationBrick Church Road,

Cassopolis, MIphone (269) 445-0536fax (269) 445-2100Director: Rhonda Schadler

Edwardsburg Public Schools

Address: 69410 Section St.Edwardsburg, MI 49112Central office phone: (269)

663-3055Fax: (269) 663-6485Community Education, (269)

663-1048

Administration

Office phone: (269) 663-1053School colors are orange and

blueMascot: The Eddie ManWebsite: www.edwardsburg-

publicschools.org

Board of Education

President: Birdella HoldreadAddress: 69125 Maple St.P.O. Box 61Edwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 663-2611Term expires: June 2015

Vice President: DouglasStickney

Address: 68825 Eighth St.Edwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 669-5959Term expires: June 2013

Trustee: Doug HallAddress: 29344 FollmerNiles, MI 49120Phone: (574) 298-4524Term expires: June 2014

Secretary: Eric ColesAddress: 32031 Worrell Rd.Niles, MI 49120

Phone: (269) 687-9535Term expires: June 2012

Treasurer: John FeilAddress: 66656 M-62 NorthEdwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 663-8919Term expires: June 2015

Trustee: Michael GordonAddress: 19434 Mason St.Cassopolis, MI 49112Phone: (269) 641-7675Term expires: June 2014

Trustee: Edward PatzerAddress: 23383 Lakeview

DriveEdwardsburg, MI 49112Phone: (269) 699-7552Term expires: June 2013

Location of school boardmeetings

The Edwardsburg Board ofEducation meets the fourthMonday of every month at 7 p.m.at the Administration building onU.S. Highway 12.

Edwardsburg High School

Address: 69410 Section St.,

Edwardsburg, MIPhone: (269) 663-1044Fax: (269) 663-5409Principal: Janet MacLeanGrades: 9-12Students: 826

Edwardsburg IntermediateSchool

Address: 69410 Section St. andU.S. Highway 12, Edwardsburg,MI

Phone: (269) 663-1063Fax: (269) 663-6156Principal: Dan NommayGrades: 4-5Students: 457

Edwardsburg Middle SchoolAddress: 69410 Section St.,

Edwardsburg, MIPhone: (269) 663-1031Fax: (269) 663-8638Principal: Jeffrey LeslieGrades: 6-8Students: 627

Eagle Lake ElementarySchool

Address: 23889 Avenue C,Edwardsburg, MI

Phone: (269) 663-1040Fax: (269) 699-7653

Taking Schools of Choice Applications for the

2011-2012 school year K-12 grades, including

Alternative and Adult Education Programs.

Merritt and Brandywine

Elementary Schools:a great place to start!• Full Day Kindergarten• Small school experience without the private school cost

Brandywine Middle/Senior

High School:right size; right opportunities!

• 7 period class day• Promoting all students to have a strong academic foundation• Providing students a wide range of educational opportunities

Brandywine Community

Schools:

the right choice!

Brandywine Community Schools

1830 S. 3rd Street Niles, MI 49120269-684-7150

www.brandywinebobcats.org

27Schools

Principal: James E. HendressGrades 2-3Students: 406

Edwardsburg PrimarySchool

Address: 69410 Section St.,Edwardsburg, MI

Phone: (269) 663-1037Fax: (269) 663-8361Principal: Debora CrouchGrades: K-1Students: 411

SouthwesternMichigan College

Eleven buildings stand onthe campus two miles east ofDowagiac, just off M-62 onCherry Grove Road. At theNiles Area Campus, there is themain building as well as the M-TEC facility.

SMC offers a transfer cur-riculum that allows students tocomplete the first two years ofa bachelor's degree as well asoccupational programs inbusiness, health care and tech-nology.

Visitors are always wel-come. Private or group tourscan be arranged.

Visit SMC at www.swmich.edu.

SMC has two campuses:Dowagiac58900 Cherry Grove Rd.Dowagiac, MI 49047(269) 782-1000

Niles Area Campus33890 U.S. Highway 12Niles, MI 49120

(269) 687-1600

Information Center:(800) 456-8675

President: David Mathews

Lake MichiganCollege

Lake Michigan College is atwo-year, comprehensivecommunity college. Locatedin Michigan's southwest cor-ner, LMC, located 90 mileseast of Chicago, serves morethan 7,000 students annuallyin academic and corporatetraining programs. More than200,000 attend culturalevents, meetings and confer-ences.

Visit LMC at www.lakemichigancollege.edu.

LMC has four locations:

Napier Avenue2755 East Napier Ave.Benton Harbor, MI 49022(269) 927-8100.

Bertrand Crossing1905 Foundation DriveNiles, MI 49120(269) 695-1391.

South Haven125 Veterans Blvd.South Haven, MI 49090(269) 637-7500.

M-TEC at LMC400 Klock Rd.Benton Harbor, MI 49022

28 Schools

“Building on a Tradition of Excellence”

DID YOU KNOW...∂∂∂ Student Achievement is our #1 Priority∂∂∂ Academic Progress is measured by the NWEA tests in the areas of language, math and reading∂∂∂ Full Day Kindergarten∂∂∂ Each elementary building offers art, music, and physical education programs ∂∂∂ All teachers are Highly Qualifi ed under the Federal No Child Left Behind requirements∂∂∂ Active athletic and fi ne arts programs∂∂∂ 535 hours of college credit hours were earned as part of dual enrollment in 2010-11 with Southwestern Michigan College∂∂∂ 93% of the Class of 2011 plan for defi nite post-secondary education after graduation∂∂∂ The Dowagiac Board of Education, Administration, Staff, Parents, and Community are engaged in a Strategic Planning Process to ensure the quality of our school district for the future∂∂∂ Students have an opportunity to interact with world renowned artists and authors during the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival

Dowagiac Union Schools206 Main Street

Dowagiac, Michigan269-782-4400

www.dowagiacschools.org

29Vital InformationDowagiac

Voter Registration/License BureauSecretary of State OfficeDriver License and Plate OfficeLocated: 601 North Front St., DowagiacPhone: (888) 767-6424Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,

Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m.to 7 p.m.

Website: www.michigan.gov/sos

Libraries

Dowagiac District LibraryLocated: 211 Commerical St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-3826Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 a.m.

to 5:30 p.m.;Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.;

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fred L. Mathews Library at SMCLocated: 58900 Cherry Grove Rd.,

DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-1339Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.

to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday,10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Website: swmich.edu/camplife/lib.htm

Hospital

Borgess-Lee Memorial HospitalLocated: 420 West High St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-8681Website: www.borgesslee.com

Walk-in Clinic

Borgess Lee Medical GroupLocated: 520 Main St., Suite A., DowagiacHours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8

p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday, 9a.m. to 3 p.m.

Phone: (269) 783-3052

Municipal Utilities(Electric, water and sewer)Located: 241 South Front St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-8200Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.cityofdowagiac.com

ElectricityIndiana Michigan PowerPhone: (800) 311-6424Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com

NewspaperDowagiac Daily News,205 Spaulding St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 687-7710

Website: www.dowagiacnews.com

TelephoneVerizon: (800) 483-4000Website: www22.verizon.com

Cable TelevisionComcast Digital CablePhone: (800) 266-2278Website: www.comcast.com

Natural GasSemco EnergyPhone: (800) 624-2019Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.

to 7 p.m.Website: www.semcoenergygas.com

Cassopolis


Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.Website: www.michigan.gov/sos

30 Vital InformationLibraries

Cass District LibraryLocated: 319 M-62, CassopolisPhone: (269) 445-3400, (800) 595-4186Faax: (269) 445-8795Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.

to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to

3 p.m.Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Local History BranchLocated: 145 North BroadwayPhone: (269) 445-0412Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.

to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Walk-in Clinic

Cassopolis Family ClinicLocated: 109 School St., CassopolisPhone: (269) 445-3874Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 7

p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.lakelandhealth.org

Electricity

Indiana Michigan PowerPhone: (800) 311-6424Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com

Midwest EnergyCassopolis District Office 901 East State St., Cassopolis Phone: (269) 445-1000(800) 492-5989Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to

5 p.m.Website: www. teammidwest.com

NewspaperCassopolis Vigilant217 North Fourth St., NilesPhone: (888) 725-0108Website: www.cassopolisvigilant.com


Municipal Utilities/TrashResidents must sign up through

Department of Public Works, CassopolisVillage Hall

Located: 117 South Broadway, Suite 100., Cassopolis

Phone: (269) 445-8648Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5

p.m.

Cable TelevisionComcast Digital CablePhone: (800) 266-2278Service questions: (800) 316-1619Website: www.comcast.com



Edwardsburg

Voter RegistrationSecretary of State OfficeLocated: 110 East Main St., NilesPhone: (888) 767-6424Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,


License BureauSecretary of State OfficeLocated: 110 East Main St., Niles

Phone: (888) 767-6424Hours: Monday, Tuesday,

Thursday, Friday, 9 a.m. to 5p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7p.m.


Libraries

Cass District Library-Edwardsburg Branch

Located: 26745 Church St., EdwardsburgPhone: (269) 663-5875Hours: Monday through

Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Cass District Library-Mason/Union Branch

Located: 17049 U.S.Highway 12, Edwardsburg

Phone: (269) 641-7674Hours: Monday through

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.;Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Walk-in ClinicCassopolis Family ClinicLocated: 109 School St.,

CassopolisPhone: (269) 445-3874Hours: Monday and Tuesday,

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.lakeland-

health.org

ElectricityIndiana Michigan PowerPhone: (800) 311-6424(800) 492-5989Website: www.indianamichi-

ganpower.com

Midwest EnergyCassopolis District Office Headquarters District Service

Center901 East State St,, Cassopolis Phone: (269) 445-1000 or

(800) 492-5989Hours: Monday through

Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.teammid-

west.com

NewspaperEdwardsburg Argus217 North Fourth St., NilesPhone: (888) 725-0108Website: www.edwardsbur-

gargus.com

32 Vital InformationTelephoneVerizon: (800) 922-0204Website: www22.verizon.com

Municipal UtilitiesEdwardsburg Village HallLocated 26296 U.S. Highway 12, EdwardsburgPhone: (269) 663-8484Hours: M-F: 9 a.m. to noon, 1 to p.m.




Niles

License Bureau/Voter RegistrationSecretary of State OfficeLocated: 110 East Main St., NilesPhone: (888) 767-6924Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,

Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;

Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.Website: www.michigan.gov/sos

Libraries

Niles District LibraryLocated: 620 East Main St., NilesPhone: (269) 683-8545Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.

to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.nileslibrary.com

Cass District Library-Howard BranchLocated: 2341 Yankee St., NilesPhone: (269) 684-1680Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.

to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Municipal UtilitiesCity of Niles Utilities Department 322 East Main St., NilesPhone: (269) 683-4700 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.ci.niles.mi.us


NewspaperNiles Daily StarLocated: 217 North Fourth St., NilesPhone: (269) 683-2100Website: www.nilesstar.com

TelephoneAT&TPhone: (800) 515-7272Website: www.att.com

HospitalLakeland Community HospitalLocated: 31 North St. Joseph Ave., NilesPhone: (269) 683-5510Website: www.lakelandhealth.org

Walk-in ClinicSouthwestern Medical Walk-in ClinicLocated: 2002 South U.S. Highway 33,

NilesPhone: (269) 687-0200; (800) 649-0740Fax: (269) 684-0199Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7

p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Website: www.swmc.org


33Vital InformationDowagiac


Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m.to 7 p.m.


Libraries

Dowagiac District LibraryLocated: 211 Commerical St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-3826Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 a.m.

to 5:30 p.m.;Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.;

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fred L. Mathews Library at SMCLocated: 58900 Cherry Grove Rd.,

DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-1339Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.

to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday,10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Website: swmich.edu/camplife/lib.htm

Hospital

Borgess-Lee Memorial HospitalLocated: 420 West High St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-8681Website: www.borgesslee.com

Walk-in Clinic

Borgess Lee Medical GroupLocated: 520 Main St., Suite A., DowagiacHours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8

p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday, 9a.m. to 3 p.m.

Phone: (269) 783-3052

Municipal Utilities(Electric, water and sewer)Located: 241 South Front St., DowagiacPhone: (269) 782-8200Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.cityofdowagiac.com

ElectricityIndiana Michigan PowerPhone: (800) 311-6424Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com

NewspaperDowagiac Daily News,205 Spaulding St., Dowagiac

Phone: (269) 687-7710Website: www.dowagiacnews.com


Cable TelevisionComcast Digital CablePhone: (800) 266-2278Website: www.comcast.com



Cassopolis



32 Vital Information

Libraries

Cass District LibraryLocated: 319 M-62, CassopolisPhone: (269) 445-3400, (800) 595-4186Faax: (269) 445-8795Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8

p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3

p.m.Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Local History BranchLocated: 145 North BroadwayPhone: (269) 445-0412Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4

p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Website: www.cass.lib.mi.us

Walk-in Clinic

Cassopolis Family ClinicLocated: 109 School St., CassopolisPhone: (269) 445-3874Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.;

Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Website: www.lakelandhealth.org

Electricity


Midwest EnergyCassopolis District Office 901 East State St., Cassopolis Phone: (269) 445-1000(800) 492-5989Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5

p.m.Website: www. teammidwest.com

Newspaper

Cassopolis Vigilant217 North Fourth St., NilesPhone: (888) 725-0108Website: www.cassopolisvigilant.com


Municipal Utilities/TrashResidents must sign up through Department

of Public Works, Cassopolis Village Hall

37Civic GroupsNiles

United Way of Greater Niles, Inc.Address: 205 Broadway St.P.O. Box 375Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 683-1011Website: www.unitedwayniles.com

Riverfest/Friends of NilesAddress: P.O. Box 1011Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 309-6790Website: www.nilesriverfest.net

The Salvation ArmyAddress: 424 North 15th St.P.O. Box 1150Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-2660

Big Brothers/Big SistersAddress: 205 Broadway, Suite BP.O. Box 194Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-1100

Habitat for HumanityAddress: 601 Sycamore St.

P.O. Box 305Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 687-1672

Berrien County Civitan ClubWebsite: www.civitan.net/berrien/pages-

berrien/2_1.html

Rotary Club of Niles-Buchanan1322 Canal St.Niles, MI 49120Facebook: www.facebook.com/niles-

buchananrotary

Four Flags Snowmobile Club3031 North Fifth St.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-1749Website: www.fourflagssnowmobileclub.org

Four Flags Garden ClubContact: Elaine (269) 683-5292

Niles Garden ClubContact: Cathy Mauthe (269) 745-3169

Noon Optimist Club of NilesContact: Robb Morse (269) 683-4972

Kiwanis Club of Niles/SouthwestE-mail: [email protected]: www..nileskiwanis.org

Dowagiac

Dowagiac RotaryWebsite: www.dowagiacrotary .orgDowagiac Lions Club66991 95th Ave.Dowagiac(269) 424-6372

Dowagiac Optimist Club(269) 782-4400

Dowagiac Art Guild(269) 782-1718Email: dowagiacartguild@ yahoo.comWebsite: www.dowagiacart guild.com

Edwardsburg

Edwardsburg Lions ClubContact: Tanda Stiffler,

[email protected]

38 Civic Groups

39TransportationAirports

South Bend AirportAddress: 4477 Progress DriveSouth Bend, IN 46628Phone: (574) 233-2185 ext. 0Online: www.flysbn.com; www.face-

book.com/flysbn; www.twitter.com/sbnair-port

Airlines:Allegiant AirReservations: (702) 505-8888Offers destinations to vacation destinations

from SBA. Nonstop destinations from SBN: Las

Vegas, Orlando/Sanford, St.Petersburg/Clearwater/Tampa Bay andPhoenix/Mesa.

Continental ConnectionReservations: (800) 523-3273Offers service to the Cleveland hub with

connections throughout the ContinentalAirlines network.

Nonstop Destinations from SBN:Cleveland

Delta Air LinesReservations: (800) 221-1212 Flight Information: 800-325-1999Offering direct flights to four major hubs

with connections to destinations worldwide.Nonstop destinations from SBN: Atlanta,

Cincinnati, Detroit, Minneapolis

United AirlinesReservations: (800) 241-6522 Flight Information: (800) 824-6200United Airlines offers direct service to

Chicago's O'Hare airport and network withconnections both nationwide and into Europe,Asia, Australia and South America.

Nonstop destination from SBN: Chicago(O' Hare)

Buses

Berrien County Public TransitAddress: 4676 East Shawnee Rd.Berrien Springs, MI 49103 Phone: (269) 471-1100

Dial-A-Ride Bus ServiceAddress: 623 North Second St.Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-5150Demand response service operates

Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rides within Niles city limits are $3 andrides to, from or within Niles Township are$4. Children ages 2-11 may ride for half-fare.Children under 2 ride free.

Greyhound Bus LinesAddress: 2412 Old State Highway 139Benton Harbor, MI 49022Phone: (269) 925-1121Website: www.greyhound.com

Greyhound Bus LinesSouth Bend Regional AirportAddress: 4671 Progress DriveSouth Bend, IN 46628Phone: (574) 287-6542Website: www.greyhound.com

Taxis

A Cab & Carrier ServiceAddress: 14566 North Red Bud TrailBuchanan, MI 49107Phone: (269) 697-0427

Checker Cab Co.Address: 903 East Sample St.South Bend, IN 46635Phone: (574) 288-7777

City CabAddress: 342 Lincolnway WestSouth Bend, IN 46635Phone: (574) 233-2020

42 TransportationShamrock Cab Co.Address: 17097 Ethel Ave.South Bend, IN 46635Phone: (574) 243-5500

Yellow Cab of BerrienCounty

Address: 141 Green GableRd.

Niles, MI 49120Phone: (269) 684-9400

Trains

AmtrakAddress: 200 Depot DriveDowagiac, MI 49047(800) 872-7245Website: www.amtrak.com

AmtrakAddress: 225 North Whittaker

St.New Buffalo, MI 49917(800) 872-7245Website: www.amtrak.com

AmtrakAddress: 598 Dey St.Niles, MI 49120(269) 684-1663Website: www.amtrak.com

AmtrakAddress: 2702 West

Washington Ave.South Bend, IN 46628(574) 288-2212Website: www.amtrak.com

South Shore LineSouth Bend Regional AirportAddress: 4485 Progress DriveSouth Bend, IN 46628Phone: (574) 233-3111Website: www.nictd.com


Name: Evaldo Zimmerman

Age: 51

City of residence: Baroda

Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? I work there and I like it

What are some of your favorite places nearby? Berrien Springs

What is the area’s best-kept secret? The Berrien Springs dam

Name: Leo Zimmerman

Age: 60

City of residence: Berrien Springs

Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? I work there and it’s nice

What are some of your favorite places nearby? The St. Joseph River

What is the area’s best-kept secret? The Berrien Springs dam

Name: Allison Roebeck

Age: 19

City of residence: Niles

Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? There’s a lot to do and it’s not far from anywhere I want to go

What are some of your favorite places nearby? Downtown Niles, Riverfront Park, the mall and the beaches

What is the area’s best-kept secret? I don’t know if it’s true, but I’ve heard rumors about anunderground tunnel that links Niles High School and RingLardner

43RecreationYouth Sports Leagues

DowagiacRocket FootballContact: Scott Hassle, (269) 591-0102Season: August through October

BaseballDowagiac Little LeagueContact: Ron Allen, (269) 340-9178Season: May through July

SoftballDowagiac Little LeagueContact: Ron Allen, (269) 340-9178Season: May through July

SoccerDowagiac Youth SoccerContact: Laura McMeeken, (269) 782-3709Seasons: Fall: August through October;

Spring: March through May (Season starts infall and continues in spring)

CassopolisBaseballContact: Nicky Hulett, (269) 445-2136Season: May through July

SoftballContact: Nicky Hulett, (269) 445-2136Season: May through July

FootballContact: Kenny Ottman, (269) 228-1029 Season: August through October

EdwardsburgSoccerContact: Catherine Toms, (269) 663-0279Season: Mid-August through October

SoftballContact: (269) 663-8081Season: May through July

BaseballContact: (269) 663-8081Season: May through July

FootballContact: Brian Black (269) 535-8150Season: August through October

NilesOptimist Soccer LeagueContact: Michelle (269) 683-4972

Niles FOP Little League BaseballMayContact: Scott Glick (269) 683-4419

Brandywine Cal Ripken BaseballMay Contact: Jamie Stover 269-362-2451

Howard Township BaseballMay

Contact: Dave Schiele (269) 683-4256

Greater Niles Baseball LeagueMayContact: Rick Olinghouse (269) 591-0308

Niles-Brandywine Girls Softball AssociationJuneContact: Rod Ratkay (574) 335-9338(269) 683-0786

American Youth Basketball TourYear round(269) 684-1497

YMCA T-Ball LeagueMay(269) 683-1552

Niles Rocket FootballContact: Brian Slack (574) 535-8150

Niles Adult LeaguesYMCA Adult LeaguesYear round(269) 683-1552

Bowling

Rocky’s Lakes Bowl93415 County Road 690Dowagiac(269) 424-5540

A.A. Timber Lanes (269) 683-6122

Joey Armadillo’s (269) 687-5555

Golf Courses

Blossom Trails1565 East Britain Ave.Benton Harbor, MI(269) 925-4951Website: www.blossomtrailsgolfclub.comBlossom Trails has a 5,987-yard, 18-hole

course, which rates a par 70. Blossom Trailswas built in 1954 and is open to the public.

Brookwood1339 Rynearson Rd.Buchanan, MI(269) 695-7818Website: www.golfbrookwood.comThis 18-hole, par 72 course covers 6,341

yards from the white tees. Brookwood was built in 1965 and is open

to the public.

Lake Michigan Hills2520 Kerlikowski Rd.Benton Harbor, MI(269) 849-4653Website: www.lakemichiganhills.comLake Michigan Hills has a par 72 course

over 6,884 yards for 18 holes.Lake Michigan Hills was built in 1969 and

is semi-private.

Orchard Hills Country Club2841 Niles-Buchanan Rd.Buchanan, MI(269) 695-5722Website: www.orchardhillscc.orgThis scenic, 6,258-yard course, is set on a

series of rolling hills south and west of the St.Joseph River between Niles and Buchanan.

Orchard Hills was built in 1915 and is aprivate course.

For information on becoming a member,call (269) 695-5991.

Pipestone Creek6768 Naomi Rd.Eau Claire, MI(269) 944-1611Pipestone features a par 67, 18-hole layout

that measures 8,351 yards.Pipestone Creek was built in 1957 and is

open to the public.

Plym Park401 Marmont St.Niles, MI(269) 684-7331Plym Park Municipal Golf Course has a

3,148-yard layout, which rates a par 36.This nine-hole jewel was built in 1921 and

is open to the public.

Signal Point Club1475 West River Rd.Niles, MI(269) 683-7073Website: www.signalpointgolf.comThe 18-hole course measures 6225, front

nine measuring 3044 and the back nine meas-uring 3181 yards. Both with a par of 36.

Signal Point Club was built in 1964 and isa private course.

It was voted the seventh-best 9-hole coursein America by Golf World Magazine.

Paw Paw Lake Golf Club4548 Forest Beach Rd.P.O. Box 68Watervliet, MI(269) 463-3831Website: pawpawlakegolfcourse.comPaw Paw Lake is an 18-hole course, which

measures 6,055 yards and is a par 70. Paw Paw Lake was built in 1918 and is

open to the public.

Pebblewood Country Club9794 Jericho Rd.Bridgman, MI(269) 465-5611Website: www.golfpebblewood.comPepplewood Country Club is an 18-hole

course, which measures 5,421 yards and is apar 68.

Pebblewood was built in 1923 and is opento the public.

44 RecreationWhittaker Woods Golf Course12578 Wilson Rd.New Buffalo, MI(269) 469-3400Website: golfwhittaker.comWhittaker Woods is an 18-hole course

which measures 7,072 yards, with a par 72 .Whittaker Woods was built in 1996 and is

open to the public.

Grand Beach Golf Course48200 Perkins Blvd.Grand Beach(269) 469-4888Grand Beach is a 18-hole course, which

measures 2,955 with a par 36.Grand Beach was built in 1912 and is open

to the public.

Berrien Hills690 West Napier, Ave.Benton Harbor, MI(269) 925-9002Website: www.berrienhills.comThis 18-hole course located beside the St.

Joseph River; was founded in 1909. The course measures 6,219 and is a par 71

Four Lakes Country Club22786 U.S. Highway 12Edwardsburg, MI(269) 699-5701Four Lakes is a public golf club. Four Lakes is an 18-hole course, which

measures 6,541 yards with a par of 72.Four Lakes was built in 1934 and is now

public.

Garver Lake Golf Course25320 May St.Edwardsburg, MI(269) 663-6463Garver Lake has a course layout that meas-

ures 2,700 yards and is a par 35.The nine-hole course was built in 1970 and


Dogwood Trail at Hampshire C.C.29592 Pokagon HighwayDowagiac, MI(269) 782-7476Dogwood Trail at Hampshire Country

Club in southwest lower Michigan has a 18-hole layout.

Dogwood measures 6,795 and is a par 72.Dogwood Trail was built in 1996 and is

open to the public.Hampshire Country Club is the home

course to Dowagiac and Edwardsburg in highschool golf.

Classic Hampshire at Hampshire C.C.29592 Pokagon HighwayDowagiac, MI(269) 782-7476Classic Hampshire at Hampshire Country

Club is part of southwest lower Michigan’sonly 36-hole layout. Classic Hampshire

measures 7,030 and is a par 72. ClassicHampshire was built in 1961 and is open tothe public.

Indian Lake Hills55321 Brush LakeEau Claire, MI(269) 782-2540Website: www.indianlakehills.comThe East Course, which was built in the

early 1920s, measures 2,856 yards with a parof 35. The West Course measures 3,187 yardswith a par of 36.

The North Course measures 3,345 yardswith a par of 36.

Indian Lake Hills was originally built in1925. The west/north layout was built in1963. The north/east course was built in 1992.

Indian Lake Hills has a driving range.

Park Shore610 Park Shore DriveCassopolis, MI(269) 445-2834Website: www.parkshoregolfclub.comPark Shore is an 18-hole course, which is a

par 72 and measures 4,981 yards.Park Shore was built in 1929 and is open to

the public.

Diamond Lake22041 M-60 EastCassopolis, MI(269) 445-3143Diamond Lake measures 2,731 yards with

a par of 35.The 18-hole course was built in 1925 and


Spruce Ridge Golf Club26831 Dutch Settlement Rd.Dowagiac, MI(269) 782-5827Website: www.spruceridgegc.comSpruce Ridge is an 18-hole course that

measures 6,058 yards. Par is 71.Spruce Ridge was built in 1970 and is open

to the public.

Cass County Elks Golf CourseUnderwood DriveDowagiac, MI(269) 782-3889The Elks Club course measures 2,936

yards, but it is tougher than it looks. The par36, nine-hole course, which was built in 1915,is open to the public.

State Parks

Grand Mere ParkGrand Mere State Park is characterized by

magnificent sand dunes, deep blowouts andone mile of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Three inland lakes lie behind the dunes inthe undeveloped natural area. Features hunt-ing, swimming, picnic areas, hiking, boatingaccess site, cross-country skiing, a sandybeach and metal detecting areas.

No hunting with rifles or handguns.

Located at Thorton Drive, Stevensville, MI49127. Take I-94 to Exit 22, John Beers Rd.,South to Thornton Dr., to entrance. For moreinformation call (269) 426-4013.

Warren Dunes State ParkWarren Dunes State Park provides 1,952

acres of recreational opportunities along thebeautiful shore of Lake Michigan in south-western Michigan. The rugged dune forma-tion rises 260 feet above the lake and offersspectacular views and excellent for hang glid-ing. The park has three miles of shoreline, sixmiles of hiking trails and is open year-round.There is a $6 admission fee for residents andan $8 admission fee for non-residents. Thepark is located 2.5 miles south of Bridgman at12032 Red Arrow Highway, Sawyer, MI49125. For more information, call (269) 426-4013

Warren Woods Natural AreaWarren Woods Natural Area is located in

Berrien County. It was designated a National Natural

Landmark in November 1967. It is the lastknown stand of virgin beech-maple forest insouthern Michigan containing outstandingindividual specimens of sycamore, beech,maple and other northern hardwoods.Ownership is private; land is leased to theState of Michigan. It is an undeveloped pro-tected parcel providing a secluded day expe-rience with access to the Galien River via aforested walk.

Extraordinary solitude and quiet reignamidst the botanical bounty enjoyed atWarren Woods Natural Area.

Two-thirds of Warren Woods’ 312 acresconsist of a mixed beech and maple forest. Ahiking trail leads visitors to the rustic GalienRiver.

Hikers should wear blaze orange when vis-iting during hunting season. Michigan hunt-ing regulations apply.

The park is located two miles north ofThree Oaks. To reach the day use park takeInterstate 94 to exit 6. Follow the signs east-bound to the park’s entrance.

For more information, call (269) 426-4013.

County Parks

Berrien County

Madeline Bertrand ParkLocated just south of Niles, Madeline

Bertrand County Park offers a public area ofnatural beauty along the St. Joseph River.

Trails lead through pine and oak forestsoffering opportunities for hiking and bicy-cling. Trails are groomed and lighted forcross-country skiing in winter and ski rentalsare available. One of the park’s most uniqueand popular features is a challenging 18-holedisc golf course. Covered shelters, an indoorlodge, scenic picnic areas, and children’splayground structures make Bertrand afavorite location for family and group out-

45Recreationings. Madeline Bertrand County Park is locat-ed at 3038 Adams Rd., Niles, MI 49120. Formore information, call (269) 683-8280.

Love Creek County Park and NatureCenter

Love Creek winds its way through thisrolling 150-acre natural area outside ofBerrien Springs. Six miles of hiking trailsprovide access to a variety of habitats, includ-ing a mature Beech-Maple forest with spec-tacular spring wildflowers.

The Berrien County Parks Commission'snaturalist service is based here and activitiesare available throughout the year.

Love Creek offers outstanding cross-coun-try skiing opportunities with groomed andlighted trails and ski rentals available.

The Fields & Forests Bike Trail also pro-vides cyclists with access to a 4.5 mile begin-ning to intermediate level mountain bike trailfrom spring through fall.

Park hours: Trails are open during daylighthours. Scheduled Interpretive Center hoursare: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5p.m. Closed on Mondays. The office may beclosed at other times when the naturalists areconducting outdoor or off-site programs.

Daily Entry Fees: $3 per vehicle forBerrien County residents, $5 for non-resi-dents.

Annual entrance permit: $35To receive more information, call (269)

471-2617.

Silver Beach County ParkLocated in St. Joseph at the mouth of the

St. Joseph River, Silver Beach County Parkfeatures a clean, wide beach on LakeMichigan and public access to the South Pier.

It is a favorite destination for a variety ofbeach and river front activities, ranging fromswimming to sunset strolls. Children’s play-ground structures, barrier-free walkways, andthe Shadowland Pavilion (which can bereserved for family gatherings and other spe-cial events) add to the many recreationalopportunities available.

Silver Beach is also host to many specialevents, including activities that are a part ofSt. Joseph’s annual Venetian Festival.

The park is open May through September.Hours are 5 a.m. to sunset, daily. No vehicleentry after dusk. Daily entry fees are $6 pervehicle for Berrien County residents, $8 fornon-residents. Silver Beach County Park islocated at 101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI49085. Call (269) 982-0533.

Rocky Gap County ParkOverlooking Lake Michigan from a bluff

in Benton Township, Rocky Gap County Parkprovides a quiet place to enjoy the LakeMichigan shoreline.

There’s a beach with 1,100 feet of lakefrontage, an overlook platform and spectacu-lar views of the lake. It is an ideal location totake a relaxed lunch break, enjoy a sunset, orcool off with a quick swim.

Note: Swimming is allowed at your ownrisk at Rocky Gap. There are no lifeguards onduty. The park is open from April untilOctober, from dawn until dusk.

For more information, contact the BerrienCounty Parks Commission Office, 701 MainSt., St. Joseph, MI 49085

Phone: (269) 983-7111 ext. 8435

Galien River County ParkIn early June 2001, the Berrien County

Parks Commission acquired 86 acres in NewBuffalo Township to establish the GalienRiver County Park Preserve. This undevel-oped property includes a mix of upland andwetland habitats along the Galien River.

The wetland area is particularly significantin that it is a part of the larger "New BuffaloMarsh," a Great Lakes marsh that formedalong the Galien River just upstream from theriver’s mouth at Lake Michigan.

The acquisition of this unique propertyinvolved the cooperative efforts of manyorganizations and individuals, as well as thepatience of the previous owners. A MichiganNatural Resources Trust Fund grant provided74 percent of the purchase price and BerrienCounty contributed the balance. Several localgovernments, businesses and individuals ini-tiated the project and provided important sup-port to the Berrien County Parks Commissionin our efforts to secure the funding for thisnew County Park.

For more information, contact the BerrienCounty Parks Commission Office, 701 MainSt., St. Joseph, MI 49085

Phone: (269) 983-7111 ext. 8435

Cass County

Fred Russ Forest ParkLocated on Marcellus Highway, 8 miles

east of Dowagiac, Michigan. Encompassed inthe 580 acre Fred Russ Research Forest oper-ated by Michigan State University, this 13-acre park with its rich history and naturalbeauty is one of the most visited parks in CassCounty.

The park features picnicking, children’splay equipment, picnic shelters (3); fishing(Class A trout stream); horseshoe pit; hikingtrails (4 miles); canoe landing; and cross-country skiing (4 miles).

The park is open year-round and businesshours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until4 p.m.


Dr. T.K. Lawless ParkLocated on Monkey Run Street, nine miles

east of Cassopolis, off M-60 and Lewis LakeRoad. This 900-plus-acre nature park is openyear-round and boasts a broad range of recre-ational activities.

The park features 15 rustic campsites, eachwith fire ring and table, a picnic shelter withtables, fresh well water and fire bowl.

Reservations for organized groups only; noindividual camping allowed. Mountain biking

(10 miles); leisure biking (7 miles); hikingtrails (7 miles); cross-country skiing (7 miles,groomed); picnic shelters (2); ball fields (2);soccer field and open games field; disc golfand volley ball court horseshoe pits (2); innertube sledding (tubes provided); fishing sea-sonal events; controlled hunting. $1 entrancefee for county residents and $3 for non-resi-dents.


Arthur Dodd Memorial ParkLocated on Creek Road, five miles north-

east of Niles, near Sumnerville. Borders theDowagiac Creek, near the Cass County line.

This 51-acre park has long been a destina-tion spot for the water enthusiast.

Dodd Park features picnic shelters (3);play areas with equipment (2); fishing (ClassA trout stream); horseshoe pits (2); hikingtrail (1 mile); play equipment; volleyballcourt; open games area; and canoe landing.

The park is open mid-April throughOctober. For more information, call (269)684-5110 or (269) 445-8611.

Hiking

Berrien County

Madeline Bertrand ParkLocated south of Niles, this park stretches

along the St. Joseph River. Trails offer hikingand biking through pine and oak forests. Callthe park at (269) 683-8280 or visit its websiteat www.berriencounty.org/parks for moreinformation.

Grand Mere Nature AreaThis 371-acre nature area is part of the

1,000-acre Grand Mere State Park, south ofSt. Joseph. Hikers and cyclists can explorethe area on paved trails. The diverse land-scape includes towering sand dunes, deepblowouts, beech woods and old lake bed,hemlock, swamp, cranberry bog and threeinland lakes.

Park enterance is off Interstate 94 Exit 22,south on Red Arrow Highway and ThorntonRoad.

Call the park at (269) 426-4013

Love Creek Nature CenterLocated east of Berrien Springs, Love

Creek is a favorite place to bird watch andview some of the 144 wildflowers growing inBerrien County. They also offer cross-countryskiing and trails for hiking and biking.Throughout the year, naturalists plan guidedhikes. There is a $3 per vehicle admission feefor residents and a $5 per vehicle fee for non-residents.

The park is open Tuesday through Sundayfrom 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The park is closedon Mondays.

Contact the park office at (269) 471-2617for more information.

46 RecreationMud Lake BogThe areas shortest trail, this 550-foot

boardwalk lets you explore the bog’smass of floating vegetation. Unique tothis area, the bog is home to carnivorousand uncommon plants and wetland ani-mals.

Tours are arranged through SarettNature Center (269) 927-4832;Fernwood Botanical Gardens andNature Preserve (269) 695-6491; orLove Creek (269) 471-2617.

Nipissing Dune TrailsA section of the world’s largest fresh

water dune formations are found onthese trails. This 2.5-mile trail systemoffers incredible views of LakeMichigan, rigorous dune climbs, a quietwalk through lowland forest and aboardwalk hike across a wetland.Guided tours may be arranged inadvance, but educational signs alongthe three well-marked trails make iteasy to take a self-guided hike. Thetrails are adjacent to the Cook EnergyInformation Center and are open Jan. 15through Dec. 15, Tuesday throughSunday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.Admission is free. Contact CookEnergy Information Center at (800)548-2555 for more information.

Warren Dunes State ParkBring your binoculars and get ready

for some serious bird watching. BerrienCounty has more bird species than anyother county in Michigan. The six-milemain trail at Warren Dunes offers someof the best bird watching in the area.The park provides 1,952 acres of recre-ational opportunities along the beautifulshore of Lake Michigan. The dune for-mation rises 260 feet above the lake andoffers spectacular views. The park isopen year-round. There is a parkentrance fee. Call (269) 426-4013 orvisit the website atwww.michigan.gov/warrendunes formore information.

Cass County

Dowagiac Woods Nature SanctuaryThis 384-acre preserve features a

natural marsh, wooded acres and anincredible number of wildflowers. Nineendangered plant and animal speciesfind haven here along with a number ofdifferent nesting birds and tree types.

Hikers must carry their own waterand there are no restroom facilities. Toaccess, take M-62 west of Dowagiacthen turn south on California Road toForest Street.

For group tour information call (517)655-5655.

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park

This 820-acre park offers 10 miles ofmountain biking trails, seven miles ofleisure biking trails and seven miles ofhiking trails. The park operates year-round and offers a broad range of recre-ational activities. Business hours areMonday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.Entrance fee is $1 for a county residentand $3 for a non-resident. Call (269)445-8611 for more information.

Van Buren County

Kal-Haven Trail SesquicentennialState Park

Bicyclists will enjoy this 34-milecrushed limestone path which connectsSouth Haven with Kalamazoo. The trailtraverses through wooded areas, pastfarms and over rivers and streams. Toreach the trail, take Interstate 96, Exit22 (North Shore Drive) to the blinkinglight (Blue Star Highway). Go south onBlue Star for about one mile, turn righton Wells Street and continue a quartermile, then turn right on Baily Street tothe park entrance. Call (269) 674-8011for more information.

The Keeler State Game AreaThis 400-acre small game area’s rus-

tic terrain is home for many plant andanimal species. Hiking is allowed onwork roads. Camping is seasonallyavailable to visitors with a permit. Besttime to visit the park is in the spring.The game area is open 24 hours a dayand the office hours are Mondaythrough Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Formore information, call (269) 244-5928.

The Ross Nature PreserveThis Covert Township preserve pro-

tects 1,449 acres. This area containscentury-old white pines and some of themost beautiful freshwater dunes in theworld. Eight endangered plant speciesare found here.

To access, take Interstate 94 Exit 41to M-140 north to County Road 376(44th Avenue). Turn left (west) onCounty Road 376 to reach the preserveentrance.

Van Buren State ParkFour hundred acres of land stretching

along the shore of Lake Michigan innorthern Van Buren County, the statepark has hiking trails, 70 acres of unde-veloped dunes and a magnificent beachmake this a favorite stop along LakeMichigan. Park permit is required.

Day and annual passes are sold at theentrance.

The park is located at 23960 RugglesRd., South Haven.

For more information about outdooractivities, lodging or special events, call(269) 637-2788.

Why I Love SouthwestMichigan

Name: George Warr

Age: 58


Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? It’s really picked up in recent years. It looks a lotnicer.

What are some of your favorite places nearby?Family Dollar, Riverfront Cafe, Hob Nob andThe Nuggett

What is the area’s best-kept secret?Homemade arts and crafts

47


Name: Hope Darnell

Age: 19

City of residence: Buchanan

Job: Landscaping

Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? All my friends are here

What are some of your favorite places nearby? The beach, the mall and Hackers

What is the area’s best-kept secret? The mud bogs

Name: Janine Jones

Age: 20


Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? It’s a good place to raise children.

What are some of your favorite places nearby? Riverfront Park and Walmart

What is the area’s best-kept secret? The southern part of Riverfront Park

48


Name: Lee Dickerson

Age: 30


Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? The weather; I like to see all four seasons

What are some of your favorite places nearby? Riverfront Park

What is the area’s best-kept secret? Fishing action on the river

49


Name: Lynne Zachary

Age: 22

City of residence: Dowagiac

Why do you like living in southwest Michigan? It’s fun; you can always find something to do.

What are some of your favorite places nearby? Twin Lakes, Lake Michigan and Mimi Sarducci’s

What is the area’s best-kept secret? The Venetian Festival and Relay for Life activities

Documents

The Answer Book