BRIDGMAN

COMMUNITY BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY PARTNERS IN COMMUNICATION In a joint effort with the City of Bridgman, Lake Township, Bridgman Public Library, the Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance, and Bridgman Public Schools, we present this community newsletter. FARMER’S MARKET COMMUNITY PARTNERS IN COMMUNICATION

SCHOOL NEWS TOWNSHIP NEWS LIBRARY NEWS CITY NEWS FROM THE FROM THE FROM THE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT SUPERVISOR DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER On behalf Residents September When this of the will see 20 through edition of Board of the water October 5 the Buzz is Education, department the library distribut- faculty, marking will be ed, we will and staff, out infra- closed be in the welcome structure for reno- final throes to the locations vations. of summer. 2019-2020 Supervisor such as curb During Follow- Superintendent school stops to res- Director that time, City Manager ing what Shane M. Peters John Gast Gretchen Evans Juan Ganum year! idents, etc. the library seemed The Township is preparing to will be getting new carpet, a monsoon-like spring, the Hard to believe that another replace some major valves in paint, lights, and furniture. weather cooperated with Southwest Michigan summer the system. There may be a In preparation, we will have plenty of warmth and sun- has ended and a new and ex- slight disruption of service, to move everything in the shine. Bridgman and the sur- citing school year is upon us. which will be planned, and library, which will make it rounding area bustled with This summer, we hired six (6) residents will be made aware necessary for us to suspend activity as a result, welcoming quality people to join our BPS ahead of time. some services. Interlibrary visitors and residents alike. READ MORE PG 2 READ MORE PG 11 READ MORE PG 17 READ MORE PG 14

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BRIDGMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE - Continued from COVER ... family. The one common thing that we Summer Feeding program – has professionally and thoroughly continue to learn through the hiring This summer our food service depart- cleaned the gymnasium, weight room process is that Bridgman Public Schools ment served 1,357 breakfasts and 4,761 and Aquatic Center and everything has continues to be a destination district for lunches to students as part of the Meet returned to normal. A special thank you employees. Up and Eat Up program for students 3 to the City of Bridgman and Lake Town- -18 years old. Summer feeding locations ship fire departments for their quick Here are our new employees and their were Immanuel Lutheran and Bridgman response and professionalism. assignments: Elementary. Bridgman Public Schools continues to Mrs. Dawn Amsler New K-12 Science Curriculum – have an excellent reputation throughout – BHS and RMS Special Education Teacher We are implementing a new science the state of Michigan for having high Mrs. Rebecca Marfia curriculum in all of our buildings and academic standards, fantastic extracur- – BHS Art Teacher grade levels. Our staff has worked hard ricular activities and numerous opportu- Mrs. Kryselle Craig over the summer preparing for the new nities in a small school district for ALL – BES School Counselor curriculum. students. Mrs. Jessica Parmerlee – BES Second Grade Teacher The Bridgman Public School District is We truly live in a community that Mr. Josh Paveza working with the Michigan Association of believes in education and supports its – Technology Assistant School Boards (MASB) to review and up- children. I thank the entire community Mr. Joe Ponegalek date its mission and vision statements, for their continued support of Bridgman – District Maintenance along with establishing a new district Public Schools. strategic plan. In late September or early Also this summer we have been busy October there will be a couple of face- As always, don’t hesitate to contact me if with projects, planning, and preparation to-face input sessions and an electronic you have a concern or would like addi- for the upcoming school year. survey to obtain input into the strategic tional information about what is hap- plan from various community stakehold- pening in the Bridgman Public Schools. Summer Recreation programs – ers. We were able to offer 14 extra-curric- The strength of our community is our ular camps serving over 239 students. As you may be aware, we had a small schools and the strength of our schools is Camps included, for example; “Let’s trash can fire in the high school gym- our community. GO BEES! Explore, Farm Chores, College Applica- nasium this past July that sustained tions” and several sport specific camps. approximately $300,000 worth of smoke Shane M. Peters, Superintendent Look for 2020 camp information and damage. ServPro of Berrien County registration next spring.

Bridgman Public Schools Daily Schedule

BES RMS BHS Full Day Schedule 7:45 am - 2:50 pm 8:00 am - 3:05 pm 7:55 am - 3:00 pm Half Day Schedule 7:45 am - 11:10 am 8:00 am - 11:25 am 7:55 am - 11:20 am 2hr Delay Schedule 9:45 am - 2:50 pm 10:00 am - 3:05 pm 9:55 am - 3:00 pm

The strength of our community is our schools and the strength of our schools is our community. { } COMMUNITY BUZZ 2 LIKE Bridgman Elementary BRIDGMAN School on FACEBOOK. COMMUNITY BUZZ

BRIDGMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS Kindness Rocks at Bridgman Elementary By: Lori Graves, BES Principal

Kindness is Krys Craig has been added to our team literally defined as the our school counselor. Krys Craig as the quality of comes to us from the Washington, DC being friendly, area with a background in counseling generous and children and adolescents inside and considerate. Not outside of the classroom setting. She is Bridgman Board all acts of kindness dedicated to making sure all children are require planning able to achieve academically by remov- of Education Lori Graves, BES Principal and advanced no- ing barriers and constructing ladders of tice. In fact, people support. Krys loves all things red, great President Eric Ramso all over the world are spreading kindness jokes and timeless music. She looks for- right now, instinctively. Our goal as ward to creating a continual buzz with Vice-President educators is to foster a kindness habit the students and staff as we all fly back Lisa Kiewel in your children with these simple and to the classroom. spontaneous acts of compassion. These Secretary can include respect, caring inclusiveness, In an effort to meet all the needs of JoAnn DeMeulenaere integrity, courage and responsibility. our students, Bridgman Elementa- ry School is proud to partner with Treasurer Bridgman Elementary School the Blessings in a Backpack program Brad Reitz embraces kindness. In fact, our for the third year in a row. Trustee theme for 2019-20 is “Kindness Pamela Oselka Rocks at BES!” Throughout the Blessings in a Backpack mobilizes com- year, lessons, assemblies and munities, individuals and resources to Trustee events will focus on and celebrate provide food on the weekends for school Brad Owen acts of kindness. children across America who might otherwise go hungry. Currently, over Trustee Bridgman Elementary School is pleased 40 students are provided with food to Tishia Roberts to welcome two new staff members to take home each weekend. If you are our team. Jessica Parmerlee will be interested in assisting with this cause, a second grade teacher. She graduated please contact Lori Graves at lgraves@ from Oakland University with her degree bridgmanschools.com. in Elementary Education and moved to Southwest Michigan where she began Please look for events, celebrations her teaching career. Jessica comes to and announcements on our Bridgman with 11 years of experience Facebook page: Bridgman working with lower elementary students Elementary School primarily in kindergarten and first grade. Jessica lives in Saint Joseph with her husband and three children.

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F.C. REED MIDDLE SCHOOL From the Principal ... Greetings, Please scan the QR barcode below to feel safe and focused while they attend It’s time to go watch a video recap of the transformation. F.C. Reed Middle School, facilitating back to school! key ingredients that are necessary for I hope everyone student achievement. had a safe sum- mer full of memo- RMS is also excited to welcome a new rable experiences staff member to our team. Over the and plenty of summer, Dawn Amsler was hired as time with family the new RMS/BHS Special Education and friends. In Teacher. Mrs. Amsler will take over the John Truesdell preparation for former duties and responsibilities of Mr. Middle School Principal the 2019 - 2020 Carr, who is now teaching and coaching school year, F.C. Reed Middle School at Bridgman High School full-time. Mrs. has made some exciting changes to its The middle school’s climate and culture Amsler has a Bachelor of Science degree in facilities, policies/procedures, and staff. will also experience a dramatic overhaul Special Education from Central Michigan We are ready for another inspiring year this fall. To best support the social, University, a Master of Arts degree from of learning and look forward to con- emotional, and academic development Saginaw Valley University, and is a certi- tinuing to work with the community to of our student population, F.C. Reed fied English Language Instructor through challenge all students to succeed. Middle School will implement a new, TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers uniform cell phone policy for all grade of Other Languages). She brings over 20 One of the most significantfacility up- levels (grades 5 - 8) during the 2019 - years of teaching experience in the state grades visitors may notice is the demo- 2020 school year. The new policy will of Michigan to our buildings. We are lition of the gymnasium’s old bleachers, prohibit the use of student cell phones thrilled to have Dawn join our Bridgman which were originally installed in 1979. and non-school issued electronic devices Bee community! The new bleachers are now setup and (ie: tablets, smart watches, etc.) on the look fantastic! Not only do they look By investing in first class facilities, RMS campus before school, during implementing common sense policies/ sharp, but the new seating offers im- instructional time, during passing proved safety features such as dedicated procedures, and assembling an experi- periods, and also during lunch/recess. enced, dedicated, and talented staff, F.C. aisles and handrails. Moreover, there is Students will still have access to their now extra room between the end of the Reed Middle School continues to strive phones after school to accommodate to work with students, parents/guard- bleachers and the / parent communication regarding pick-up sidelines, which will make it easy to ians, and the community to ensure all and travel logistics. The new cell phone learners acquire the social, emotional, enter and exit the bleachers without policy is the culmination of a year long disrupting athletic competitions. In ad- and academic skills needed to reach their conversation where parents/guardians full potential. As always, please do not dition, there is now sufficient dedicated voiced concern about the detrimental handicap seating for visitors that are in hesitate to contact me if you have any effects of social media, teachers reviewed questions about the middle school or wheelchairs or are unable to climb stairs. research regarding the negative impact These renovations will dramatically im- would like to volunteer to support our of cell phones on student learning, and a educational mission. prove the athletic experience for families community survey indicated an over- and visitors during home RMS events whelming desire to remove electronic Your partner in education, during the 2019 - 2020 school year. The distractions from the school day. John Truesdell, RMS Principal project also gives our community anoth- Thank you for your support in this er quality gathering location for assem- endeavor! The new cell phone policy blies, presentations, and meetings. will help ensure students continue to COMMUNITY BUZZ 4 LIKE Bridgman Public BRIDGMAN Schools on FACEBOOK. COMMUNITY BUZZ

BRIDGMAN HIGH SCHOOL From the Principal ... Are you our students and teaching staff during Niles, she was a teacher at Caseville Pub- ready for this busy time in the building. lic Schools for 17 years. another Staff were also working hard over the Sam Waalkes, a familiar face at Bridg- exciting summer. The BHS science department man Public Schools, will be moving over school year? researched a new curriculum based on to the high school full time to teach I am excited to the Next Generation Science Standards. Spanish I - IV. Previously, Sam shared his start a new school The new curriculum shifts from a teach- time at the middle and high schools. year and I hope er-driven approach to phenomenon. everyone had a Additionally, the BHS social studies Spencer Carr, who also split time at Gerald Heath department is excited to offer an addi- the middle and high school, will also be High School Principal restful summer vacation. tional Advanced Placement MacroEco- moving over to the high school full time nomic course to juniors this year. Both to work in our special education depart- High School Events of these new curriculum developments ment. Over the Summer continue to align with our district vision The high school as been full of activity statement of “Together, challenging our Get the Latest Information over the past few months. TheSpirit of children to succeed.” The beginning of every academic year is Bridgman Marching Band just completed always a busy time. For up-to-date infor- another successful band camp hoping Welcome New Staff mation, please view our website at www. to build on last year’s award-winning Rebecca Marfia accepted the art bridgmanschools.com, then click on the season. Special thanks to Mr. Reppart, teaching position in early June. Mrs. “high school” link. Once on the BHS Band Boosters, and parents for all of Marfia started her professional career page, please refer to the helpful links their assistance organizing the week’s as a graphic designer before deciding to on the left side. This site features our events. The fall sports season has begun change direction and attend the Uni- daily announcements, a calendar for the with the 8-man football, cross country, versity of Michigan to earn a bachelor’s school and athletics, significant student boys soccer, and boys practices degree in Secondary Education in 2005. information, and our Twitter feed. starting on Monday, August 12, fol- She also earned her master’s degree from lowed by volleyball and girls / Marygrove College in 2015. Mrs. Marfia Again, thank you for welcoming seasons opening on Wednesday, has taught at Coloma Community Schools me to Bridgman High School. I am August 14. for the last six years. eager to start my second year at the district! During the summer break, our custodial Dawn Amsler recently joined our and maintenance team dedicated count- special education department. Dawn Please feel free to reach out to me at any less hours to deep cleaning, completing received her bachelor’s degree in Special time by calling (269) 465-6848 or email minor building repairs and painting Education from Central Michigan Univer- me at [email protected]. throughout the facility. All of this work sity in 1995. She also earned a master’s I am looking forward to a successful occurred while summer camps and pro- degree from Saginaw Valley University school year! fessional development were taking place in 2004. Mrs. Amsler has been a special in the building. Thank you to all of the education teacher with Niles Community Gerald Heath team members for their dedication to Schools for the last three years. Before Bridgman High School Principal

The strength of our community is our schools and the strength of our schools is our community. COMMUNITY BUZZ { } 5 BRIDGMAN LIKE Bridgman Public COMMUNITY BUZZ Schools on FACEBOOK.

BRIDGMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS Athletic & Community Recreation Director’s Athletic Tickets of cards will be available for sale at home athletic events as well. Message Bridgman High School is a volun- tary member of the Michigan High In a professional pub- School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Bridgman Bees Football lic school career that and typically charges a $5 admission has come full circle is BACK!!! for it’s home athletic events. Reed Bridgman Bees Football begins a new after having served in Middle School prices are $3 – adults; various administra- era this fall as it makes the move to $2 – students. Senior citizens are 8-player football for the first time in tive roles in two other warmly welcomed and admitted free districts, I can attest school history. The Bees will be com- of charge – we kindly ask individuals peting in the West Michigan 8-Player Ken Schmaltz that Bridgman Public to pick up Senior Citizen cards at the Athletic Director Schools is a first- Football Conference with Lake Mich- Bridgman High School office ahead of igan Catholic, Lawrence, Martin, class school system with an incredibly time. Further, student-only pre-sale respected administration, highly-repu- Michigan Lutheran, New Buffalo & tickets can be purchased for all home Wyoming Tri-unity Christian. Up-to- table teachers and extremely energetic and BCS Conference road contests coaches in place who are enthusiastic date schedules for both varsity and jv for $2 in their respective school office can be viewed at www.bridgmanath- about athletics but even more passion- (must be used for date of purchase). ate and proud of its academics. Great letics.com. The coaching staff -in cludes Aaron Locke, Steve Veldman, things are in place at Bridgman Public Family Bargain Cards Schools and I consider myself blessed as Al Ottusch and Erik Haskins. Once again in 2019-20, Bridgman I begin my 5th year leading the athlet- Public Schools will be selling its ic department at my alma-mater – a Mark your calendars now for our Family Bargain Cards that include 20 school and community that is very near 2019 Homecoming Game – admissions to any home Bridgman and dear to my heart – while having the Friday, October 4 athletic event (non-MHSAA tourna- opportunity to be an energetic impact The Bees will host the Martin ment) for the price of $30 (equaling as well as a positive role model for the Clippers in a JV (5:00 pm) and $1.50 per event). The cards have no youth and future of Bridgman. Varsity (7:00 pm) doubleheader. expiration and carry over from each Ken Schmaltz – Athletic & sports season as well as each school Community Recreation Director year. Purchases can be made in the Ph: (269) 466-0227 high school office and a small number [email protected]

FinalForms -- Bees Parents We are very excited to announce that, FinalForms also pre-populates infor- Please register at: for another year, the Bridgman Athletic mation wherever possible, for each of https://bridgman-mi.finalforms.com Department has partnered with Final- your students, saving you time. You may and follow the prompts to create your Forms, an online forms and data man- review your data at any time to verify it account, create your students and sign agement service. FinalForms allows you is current. You will be required to sign your forms. to complete and sign athletic participa- your forms once per year and after any tion forms for your students. The most update. Thank you for your assistance in stream- exciting news is that FinalForms saves lining our athletic paperwork processes data from season-to-season and year-to- We are asking that ALL parents of at Bridgman High School and Reed year, meaning that you will never need athletes use FinalForms. Middle School. to enter the same information twice! COMMUNITY BUZZ 6 LIKE Bridgman Public BRIDGMAN Schools on FACEBOOK. COMMUNITY BUZZ

2018-19 Bridgman Athletic Department – Year in Review BCS Conference Champions Emily Jotzat RMS Boys Track – Aaron Locke • Bees Girls Cross Country won its Volleyball – Haley Goff, Lily Badger RMS Girls Track – Emma Cramer fourth straight conference champion- Girls Basketball – Savanna Tate, Sydney ship and 5th overall in school history. Payne, Kaitlin Essig New Coaching Hires in 2019-20: • Bees Girls Soccer claimed is first con- Boys Basketball – Luke Blesy RMS Boys Soccer – Gustavo Esteves ference championship since 2005 and – Henry Branch, Jackson JV Football – Erik Haskins the 2nd in school history. Schmaltz RMS Football – Luke Brown • Bees won its first conference Softball – Natalee McNeil, Kaylee Shuler, MHSAA Tournaments hosted by championship since 2016 and the 8th Mackenzie Knowlton, Madelyn Oman, Bridgman High School in 2019-20 total in school history. Autumn Brown, Arie Hackett Winter Sports Season – Division 3 Boys Girls Track – Kaitlin Essig, Mikaela Basketball District Tournament MHSAA State Finals Qualifiers Owen, Karsyn Stewart • Girls Swimming – Mackenzie Knowl- Boys Track – Jayden Pribyl, Spencer Noll, ton Justin Brychta, Connor Blesy BCS Athletic Conference • Boys Cross Country – 3rd Place at Girls Soccer – Morgan Granzow, Mikaela Bridgman High School is entering its MHSAA Division 4 Regional Tourna- Owen, Savanna Tate, Lily Badger, Olivia sixth year as a charter member of the ment Tomlin, Mackenzie Warren, Macie Wil- BCS Athletic Conference. Divisions in • Girls Cross Country – 2nd Place at liamson MHSAA Division 4 Regional Tourna- our league can vary sport to sport. Below ment WSJM Athletes of the Week is your “cheat sheet” for what divisions • Boys Track – Jayden Pribyl, Spencer Karsyn Stewart (Cross Country), Natalee our Bees compete in per sport for 2019- Noll, Justin Brychta, Connor Blesy, McNeil (Softball), Mikaela Owen (Track 20: Ezra Clappsaddle & Soccer) • Girls Track – Kaitlin Essig, Diana WSJM Female Athlete of the Year DIVISION/LEAGUE Nielson, Mikaela Owen, Karsyn Stew- Mikaela Owen BCS Conference (all schools) art, Jane Kaspar Cross Country New Coaching Hires in 2018-19: Boys Tennis All-State Athletes Cross Country – Spencer Carr Competitive Cheer Girls Cross Country – Karsyn Stewart Boys Soccer – Nick Foxworthy Girls Soccer Girls Track – Mikaela Owen, Kaitlin Girls Swimming – Emily Nannfeldt Girls Tennis Essig, Karsyn Stewart JV Volleyball – Morgan Adkins Boys Track – Jayden Pribyl 8th Grade Volleyball – DeAnn Blakeman DIVISION/LEAGUE 7th Grade Volleyball – BCS Red Division: All-Conference Athletes Michelle Foxworthy Boys Cross Country – Luke Blesy, Chip- (Berrien Springs, Brandywine, Buchanan, Competitive Cheer – Lisa Kreitner Comstock, Parchment) per Steffey, Connor Blesy Boys Swimming – Emily Nannfeldt Girls Cross Country – Karsyn Stewart, Boys Soccer 8th Grade Girls Basketball – Volleyball Savanna Tate, Kaitlin Essig, Mikaela Steve Rumsey Owen, Mackenzie Warren, Jane Kaspar Boys Basketball 7th Grade Girls Basketball – Girls Basketball Football – Jared Russell, Henry Branch, Darren Stemm John Davis Baseball Softball – Elaine Starbuck Softball Boys Soccer – Jayden Pribyl, Tyler Stein- Boys Track – Spencer Carr brook, Ezra Clappsaddle, John Wallen- Girls Track – John Carr BCS White Division: fang, Alec Goff Asst. Baseball – Scott Wessendorf Girls Swimming – Mackenzie Knowlton, (Howardsville Christian, LMC, New Buf- Asst. Baseball – Al Ottusch falo, River Valley) Boys

COMMUNITY BUZZ 7 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

Bridgman Foundation for Educational Excellence From the Chairman

you’re a supporting participant, we wel- students, I offer the following examples come you back in 2020. If not, please of this cooperation. be a first-time participant and enjoy this beautiful golf course, and I predict, you’ll 5th Grade Stand up Desks be back! (R. Allman) A previous grant for 4 stand-up desks Now, as a teaser, our familiar February proved extremely beneficial in one 5th Allan Barker, BFEE Chairman auction/dance/great food celebra- grade class. Funding for additional tion will offer a creative community set- stand-up desks provided each of the This Bridgman Foundation ting with a focus to “enjoy the season.” three 5th grade classrooms with this Please stay tuned and be part of the flexible option to stand while working. for Educational Excellence excitement coming in February 2020. Students who need help focusing or just update is offered as we need a chance to stand rather than sit, approach the upcoming You can also support the Foundation’s have shown marked improvement in academic year with mission and its events in a more reward- behavior and learning. ing way by volunteering to be a Board renewed energy, ready to Trustee. The Foundation Trustees are Screenagers/Internet Safety Video contribute educational volunteers within the community who (K. Haskins) opportunities for all experience a sense of fulfillment from A documentary film to be shown at a students. the stories told by Bridgman Public Parent/Community forum provides School students and their teachers. information to parents and students on Once you get involved, the time spent how to safely navigate the digital world The Foundation Trustees value our at Board meetings and event planning and find balance in accessing and using long-standing service to the Bridgman sessions becomes insignificant after you technology. Public Schools, and look forward to the receive your first story that produces a creative educational grant requests that smile! Cultivating Creativity (Green) will be heading our way soon. When you The replacement display cases, in the bus see a Bridgman Public School adminis- If interested in becoming a Board Trust- hallway for art in the elementary school tration or faculty member, or the critical ee, please share your interest through encourage positive feedback among support staff please take the opportuni- our website at: www.bridgmanfoun- students and discussions about art and ty to thank them for their commitment dation.org under the volunteer tab. creativity. It also meets the Michigan to a job well done! Personally, my first three-year term as State standard for art display of all grade

a Trustee has come and gone, but the levels throughout the year. We have one event set, the well support- memories have not. ed Annual Foundation Golf Outing at Lost Dunes will be May 11, 2020. To share how the Foundation contrib- This event offers outstanding memories utes, and how the Bridgman Public for all participants, and results in a one- Schools strive to make a difference for day contribution that is spread across the year to benefit our students! If

The strength of our community is our schools and the strength of our schools is our community. { } COMMUNITY BUZZ 8 LIKE Bridgman Public BRIDGMAN Schools on FACEBOOK. COMMUNITY BUZZ

Bridgman Foundation for Educational Excellence

Science, Technology, Engineering, Our efforts and your generosity in underground stem which puts out lateral and Mathematics (STEM) Library beginning the Bridgman Elementa- shoots and adventitious roots at inter- (J. Klunder) ry School (BES) Come and See Farm vals.” This year our plants will appear as A library of various STEM oriented ma- Garden Club have created a fabulous a compost project in the BES cafeteria terial that are reusable and can be inte- program with unlimited potential for hosted by the Garden Club, and a new grated into all grade level reading classes students, families and the community. Garden Club will be organized at F. C. in support of STEM principles and skills. Reed Middle School. We will have a The idea is to provide a natural progres- The value of a small much larger space available to us there sion to the Middle School STEM Lab. and the possibilities are endless. We will community Foundation be constructing a high tunnel to extend Animation in Art (J. Bender) cannot be overstated. our garden season and be working with Building on students’ STEM rotations, the students to plan other projects of 6th grade art class students will use It gives great ideas an opportunity to be interest to them. iPads and software to create stop motion tested with the resources necessary for animation videos after storyboarding adequate growth. In our minds, every- Other rhizome projects include reaching and preparation with analog props. It thing is a garden. You can have the best out to teachers with suggestions of how also will employ the team work and seeds and some good soil to put them to integrate the use of the garden in communications skills used in the STEM in but if you don’t have the nutrients or their day-to-day instruction and engag- Lab. compost to grow them the yield may not ing the STEM lab with garden oriented be the best. Our grant gave us the nutri- projects. ents and the compost to get things off to The following story was told to the a very successful harvest this year. This has been a wild and fabulous Foundation by individuals dedicat- ride for the three of us. Our com- ed to making an outside learning Physically, we have a 10 raised-bed munity support and collaboration environment come to life for all enclosed garden with a tool shed and has been the envy of all we have to enjoy. This is an outcome that various gardening tools and some fabu- spoken to at various conferences makes volunteer service on the lous grow lights, but more importantly, we have attended. We are very Foundation rewarding. And now we have 35 BES students who are very excited to nurture and feed this the story…….. excited about growing food and caring plant as it creates healthy kids and for the earth. They learned about plants. a healthy community. Melissa Payne, BES Special Educa- They tried new foods that are available tion teacher; Peggy Ferguson, Food locally. The older students had an op- Service Director and Gail Holman, portunity to try some leadership skills. Co-director of Come and See Farm Our “garden” plant is well rooted. would like to thank the Bridgman Foundation for Educational Excel- We knew when we “planted” this project lence for the grant we received for that we were creating a project with the 2018-2019 school year. rhizome roots. By definition a rhizome is “a continuously growing horizontal

The strength of our community is our schools and the strength of our schools is our community. COMMUNITY BUZZ { } 9 BRIDGMAN LIKE Bridgman Public COMMUNITY BUZZ Schools on FACEBOOK.

Aquatic Center & Community Weight Room

For over 40 years, the is a member of the Southwest Michi- Community Weight Room Bridgman Aquatic Center gan Swim League and competes at USA Bridgman High School has a state of the Swimming sanctioned swim meets. Prac- art weight room, located in the balcony has been a hive of aquatic tice is 5:15-7:15pm with groups from of the gym. The CWR is open seven days activities. beginner to Advanced/High School. Visit a week with hours in both the morning our website for more information and to and evening. We offer a “Punch Card” From in-water exercise classes to swim download the registration form. for the weight room which is available lessons, GlideFit to swim team, the BAC for $20/30 visits or the fee is $1 per offers a wide variety of activities for Community Diving visit. If you purchase an Aquatic Center both children and adults, with a sched- Lessons are taught by Elaina Paulson, Membership, use of the weight room is ule that accommodates busy lives. Deep Diving Coach for Bridgman High School included. Hours are listed on the web- water aerobics and shallow water aero- Co-Op teams. The diving lessons are site and the Community Weight Room bics classes are offered Monday through open to divers of all ages and all levels. is CLOSED during all home basketball Friday mornings. An evening shallow Students will learn basic and advanced games. water aerobics class is held on Monday techniques while improving existing and Wednesday. Our Arthritis Class is skills. Please see the website for class For more information on these available Monday, Wednesday, and Fri- session dates or contact the diving and other programs including the day mornings. We have adult lap swim Coach Paulson at [email protected]. latest pool updates, closures and times throughout the day, seven days schedules, visit our website at a week. To access our current schedule, BridgmanPool.com -- Like us on please visit BridgmanPool.com. All clos- Community Swim Lessons Bridgman Aquatic Center offers Com- Facebook too! ings are listed on the website and signs munity Swim Lessons at regular inter- are posted in the locker rooms and at vals throughout the year. Our website the entrance to the Aquatic Center. contains information regarding the levels for each of the classes we offer. Family Recreation Swim The session dates are listed below along If you are looking for a fun activity to with date of registration. Our commu- do with your family, come to a Family nity swim lessons are FREE for children Recreation swim! We offer a family rec living in the City of Bridgman, Lake swim on Tuesday and Thursday evening Township, or children who attend Bridg- from 7:30-9:00 pm and Saturday and man Public Schools as a School of Choice Sunday from 1:00-2:00 pm. Please see student. our website for fee schedule as well as closings due to swim meets. To register your child for community les- sons, visit BridgmanPool.com and click on Sea Bee Swim Club the Registration link. Practice begins Monday, September September 16 – October 30 16. The Sea Bees are a competitive age REGISTER ONLINE: group swim team for children ranging in Monday, September 9 age from 6 through high school. SBSC

The strength of our community is our schools { and the strength of our schools is our community. } COMMUNITY BUZZ 10 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

LAKE CHARTER TOWNSHIP

SUPERVISOR - JOHN GAST CONTINUED FROM COVER ... Lake Charter Township Water System The sanitary sewer system is also to be Hello to everyone. Summer is quickly Lakes and Energy, has taken a proactive investigated for infiltration. Most of fading away and by the time you re- approach in testing public water supplies the manholes and lift stations are 30+ ceive this newsletter, we will probably for the two common PFAS chemicals years old. The Township is starting already be into September or close to (PFOA & PFOS). We had testing con- with the lift station monitoring for it. ducted last year and we are currently in flow volumes and will investigate the a cycle for testing this year. Last year’s collection systems in those areas with This summer you may have noticed tests results are available on the town- unusually high volumes. This moni- one of our distribution personnel ships website and they show non-detect. toring is with the hopes of curbing the working in front of your residence Of the testing conducted so far this year, rising cost of treatment of non-gray or business. We continue to verify the results have yielded non-detect. water at the plant. location and condition of your shut off Testing will continue through October valve in the event of an emergency or of 2019 and the results will be posted on The connection of illegal sources a planned maintenance event. We are the townships website at the end of the such as sump pumps, house planning to replace a few large valves testing cycle. If you have any questions gutters and other ground water in the distribution system in Septem- regarding this issue, please feel free to sources will be the last focus of ber, so you may experience a tempo- give me a call. The State of Michigan has the investigation. rary disruption. Anyone who will be a web page designated to this specific affected will be notified prior to the issue: www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse If you have had items such as flowers, work. You may also notice work being and it contains a lot of useful informa- etc. stolen from sites in the cemetery, performed on your remote meter read- tion. please make us aware of such thefts. er located on your residence, business We have surveillance equipment in or post at the meter pit. We will be I also encourage plant tours if you are the cemeteries and could possibly conducting upgrades to these over the ever interested in seeing the process of have pictures of thieves. next few months to make reading your treating your drinking water. You can meter more efficient. We continue to give me a call at 269-465-3850. Enjoy John Gast, Supervisor make improvements in the water sys- the rest of your summer. tem for both reliability and efficiency. FACT: According to the USGS (United I am sure everyone has heard about States Geological Survey), total with- the concern of PFAS (Per & Poly drawals for public supplies were about fluoroalkyl) substances that have been 39,200 million gallons per day (Mgal/d) in the news over the last year. PFAS in 2015. Sixty-one percent of these chemicals are man-made and have withdrawals were from fresh surface-wa- been used in manufacturing, firefight- ter sources (24,000 Mgal/d), 38 percent ing and many other common house- were from fresh groundwater sources hold and consumer products. These (14,900 Mgal/d) chemicals have impacted some water systems. The state of Michigan, (M Jeff Burkhard EGLE), Michigan Department of Great Superintendent Lake Township Water System

Did you know the Lake Charter Township COMMUNITY BUZZ Water Department offers tours? { } 11 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

LAKE CHARTER TOWNSHIP From the Desk of Bob Clark, Treasurer

The 2019 sum- Electronic Payments & E Check mer tax bills Electronic payments continue to grow every year. Savings by using E check are out and due over conventional card payment systems was over $900! E check is available for utili- September 16 ty payments also. The cost is only $3.00 for up to a $10,000 payment. It is fast, easy to avoid interest to use, and secure. Automatic utility payments also continue to increase. and penalties. Some payment cycles are seeing as much as half of all payments being made this Please remember way. Payments are deducted when due from the checking account you choose. There postmarks are not is no charge for this convenient service. Please contact our office or visit our website accepted for pay- for more information about these new secure, convenient payment options. Bob Clark, Treasurer ments so please al- low plenty of time Lake Township Park News for delivery when mailing. We now have We had another busy summer with hundreds of visitors during the electronic options available if you are season. Baseball, softball, and soccer all endured the cool and wet spring but got running late. Also, the drop box located through it! Fall soccer will be “kicking off” soon. The lighting in the pavilions was just west of the Township Hall is a good replaced with new LED lighting to improve illumination and reduce energy costs. way to make payments after hours. Just We are looking into sinks and cabinets in the north and south pavilions also. The pa- note, they must be in the box by 5:00 vilions were rented every weekend this summer. The park committee is also looking P.M. on the 16th to avoid penalties. into improvements to the baseball fields (fencing and renovation of the back field). The Sand Ridge Disc Golf League sponsored a tournament this spring with 72 players Did you know there are summer participating. Once we dried out the course is in great shape. The fall is a great time tax payment deferments available to visit the park or getting in a round of disc golf. for people over the age of 62, many veterans, and on certain agricul- tural properties? Website Please check out the requirements Need information on recycling schedules, a form for virtually any rea- and further information on the State son, information on the park or pavilion rentals, tax information, or of Michigan website (www.michigan. assessment questions? Simply visit our website for most any question or need. gov) or ours (www.lake-township.org). We have added assessment information to the mix. You can pay utility and tax bills, Deferment forms must be filed by the see amounts due and even histories of payments. We post upcoming events and due date deadline of September 16. This information about things going on in the Township. We also have Frequently Asked allows eligible taxpayers to defer paying Questions about assessment and taxes. This is a wealth of information available with the summer tax until February 14 with- the click of a mouse! Please check us out at: www.lake-township.org out paying interest or penalties. Large Trash Dates We all know how difficult it is to Vouchers for large trash delivery to Republic Services are available at the Township come up with that money every Hall for Township residents. The dates for the fall are: September and February. Defer- October 12, 2019 8:00 am- 12:00 noon ring taxes, making partial payments, October 19, 2019 8:00 am- 12:00 noon and using a tax savings account are all great ways to make it easier on you and your budget. Please give me a call if you would like any further information about these options. COMMUNITY BUZZ 12 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

LAKE CHARTER TOWNSHIP From the Desk of Gloria A. Payne, Clerk

Gloria Payne, Clerk

The year 2020 proves to be a year of ELECTIONS! Even though this infor- mation is a bit early, the election dates scheduled for 2020 are as follows: March 10, 2020 – Presidential Primary May 5, 2020 – To be announced August 4, 2020 – Local and State of Michigan Primary November 3, 2020 – Presidential Election With the passage of Pro- posal 18-3, voters have new rights. You may now regis- ter to vote through election day, and all voters can now vote early. No reason absen- tee voting is available. See information at right. Find out more at: Michigan.gov/Vote See you at the polls!

COMMUNITY BUZZ 13 BRIDGMAN FOLLOW Weko Beach COMMUNITY BUZZ Campground on FACEBOOK.

CITY OF BRIDGMAN CITY MANAGER - JUAN GANUM CONTINUED from cover ...

The City’s ongoing efforts to create In addition to highlighting Though our focus has been the a safer, more inviting space for our crosswalks, the City improvement of “walkability” pedestrians and bicyclists continued this in Bridgman, the City has summer with the addition of pedestrian repainted the bicycle lanes also identified a project at the signage and enhanced striping at three which were first painted on intersection of Lake Street and of its Lake Street crosswalks: Mathieu Lake Street last year. Church Street to enhance motorist Street, Maple Street and Pine Street. safety. The signs, which have been placed If you have recently driven through on either side the intersection, you likely noticed of Lake Street the blinking stop signs, which are just behind illuminated day and night. The solar- the curb, state powered LEDs are installed around the that motorists perimeter of the stop signs to attract must stop for motorists’ attention. A result of a pedestrians safety recommendation made by former within the councilmember Jim Catania, the project crosswalks, will help prevent vehicles from running pursuant to state the stop signs at that busy intersection, law. To more thereby improving motorist and clearly define the pedestrian safety. crosswalks, our Department of The efforts described are part of the Public Services City’s pursuit of its mission: crew outlined them with Let’s make Bridgman safer for all the folks walking, jogging, The City of Bridgman exists to ‘Safety Yellow’ pushing baby strollers or promenading their dogs when cross- provide a safe, relaxed place paint. Our ing the street for individuals, families and police officers businesses to pursue and enjoy and staff have their dreams. already noticed a positive effect as After the bike lanes were added motorists are yielding to pedestrians from Church Street to Weko Beach, who have entered the crosswalks. We more bicyclists started appearing have already discussed an expansion within the buffer area between the of the project by highlighting the travel lane and parallel parking crosswalks at Church Street, Clark area. As we strive to make Bridgman a Street, Tower Street and Gast Road more bike-friendly community, we will intersections. seek other opportunities to develop non- motorized pathways.

A public hearing for the City’s Master Plan will be held on September 19 at 4:30 p.m. { Please check the City’s website for details! COMMUNITY BUZZ 14 } BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

2019 Fall Cleanup Schedule

Bagged Leaves are indicated in GREEN on the calendar. The city requires the use of SEPTEMBER biodegradable paper leaf bags. City workers will not pick up leaf bags made from any other material. Residents have the option of raking their leaves to 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 the curb, where they will be picked up by city workers using the city’s leaf vacuum. Last day for 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 the season will be November 18, unless weather 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 requires additional days. Service will resume April 2020 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Leaf & brush burning within the city is prohibited

Curb-side Leaf Pickup is indicated in ORANGE on OCTOBER the calendar. The leaf vacuum will begin on the east side of the city and complete one pass per 1 2 3 4 5 week through the city. Leaves must be raked to the 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 roadside/curb. To prevent leaves clogging the storm drains DO NOT rake leaves into roadways. 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Brush is indicated in YELLOW on the calendar. Please limit to yard cleanup. City workers will 27 28 29 30 31 spend no more than 15 minutes at each property. Last day for the season will be November 19, NOVEMBER unless weather requires additional days. Service will resume April 2020 1 2

Christmas Tree Pick Up – January 8 and 15, 2020 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 (weather permitting) 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Large Trash Pick Up is indicated in will be 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 September 11 and 18. Items not accepted include 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 those larger than a refrigerator, tires and construction material. Refrigerators and air conditioners must have the Freon removed with a BAGGED LEAF PICKUP tag attached indicating as such. A complete list of BRUSH PICKUP accepted items is available on the city’s website and at City Hall. CURBSIDE LEAF PICKUP LARGE TRASH PICKUP Republic Services also will pick up your extra-large items for a fee. To schedule such a pickup, call Republic Services at (269) 465-3773.

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BRIDGMAN FOLLOW Bridgman Police COMMUNITY BUZZ Department on FACEBOOK.

CITY OF BRIDGMAN

"Promote the Vote" - New Faces in the Department of Public Service Proposal 3 Town Hall Meeting On November 6, 2018, Michigan elec- During the Spring of 2019, the City gave a fond farewell to three of tors passed Proposal 3, a Constitu- its employees. Within the Street Department, Gus Litke and Buzz Ott tional Amendment that affects when retired after 12 years and 6 years, respectively. We are grateful to Gus voters can register to vote, how they and Buzz for providing our residents with years of tireless service. In are registered, and who can vote by addition, the City thanks Matt Cross, a six-year Water Department em- mail. ployee, for his dedicated service to our community. Having completed a degree in accounting, Matt obtained a position in his new field. The Office of the County Clerk will hold a public presentation at the Berrien County Following their departures from the City, three new employees were Conference Room, Berrien County Health added to our ranks. Josh Long, Chris Lahti and Andrew Clay were Department, 2149 E. Napier Ave., Benton hired in late spring. Josh served in the US Marine Corp before taking Harbor, MI on Monday, October 7, 2019 at a position as a Line and Signal Maintainer with NICTD Railroad. Chris 5:30 p.m. brings 22 years of truck driving experience, most recently with Berrien The public is invited to this information County Road Department, that will greatly benefit theStreet Depart- session covering topics such as automatic ment in many areas. Our third addition, Andrew Clay, was a mechanic voter registration, registration by mail and driver for over 13 years with Jeff’s Towing. Andrew has also served up to 15 days before election, in-person as a reserve police officer forBridgman Police Department for several registration extended to Election Day with years. We welcome our newest team members, who will continue the proof of residency, and no-reason absentee tradition of providing quality services to our residents and businesses. voting. For more information, contact the Elections Department, 269.983.7111, Ext. 8264 or at [email protected].

Farmer’s Market Returns to Bridgman Thanks to the efforts of local resident Nick Schmidt, Bridgman has joined the list of Southwest Michigan communities with a farmer’s market. The market was resur- rected on August 4 and will run through mid-October, every Sunday from 9 A.M. to 2 P.M. in the parking lot next to Transient Artisan Ales on Lake Street. Those inter- ested in vending at the market may email [email protected] or search for Bridgman Farmer’s Market on Pictured left to right: Andrew Clay, Chris Lahti and Josh Long Facebook. There is no fee for vendors. To our residents and visitors - please patron- ize the market in order to sustain it within Bridgman. Foot traffic is essential to its success! COMMUNITY BUZZ 16 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ BRIDGMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY HOURS Monday-Thursday: 10-8 Friday: 10-5 Saturday: 10-4 BRIDGMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY Sunday: Closed Library Director -- Adult Programs Gretchen Evans ... Continued from cover KNIT N YARN STYLES 4 KIDZ Every third Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, September 28, 2019 loan service will be closed from Sep- and every Monday and Thursday, 10:00 a.m. tember 16 through October 7. Regular from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Benton Harbor Library programs like the early literacy classes The group is buzzing with activity! This free program provides high-quality and yoga will go on a brief hiatus and Members have been knitting or cro- hair care education (no dye or heat) return the week of October 14. While cheting hats for patients going through and services for African-American kids we are closed, you can get reading, chemotherapy. In June, several mem- in foster care and transracial adoptive listening, or viewing material from our bers took a field trip toYarn and More families. Bridgman Public Library is a online services, Overdrive and Hoopla, in New Carlisle, IN. And the group has co-sponsor of this program held at the or you could visit one of our neigh- been working on charity items to be Benton Harbor Library. boring libraries. For a complete list distributed around the holidays. of where to go for books, computers, MACRAME MEETS POTTERY SECOND WEDNESDAY BOOK CLUB copying, and notary services while we Friday, October 25, 2019 Second Wednesday of the month at are closed, please visit our website. We 5 – 7 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Create a macramé wall hanging under are sorry for the inconvenience but glad Join our friendly and interactive read- to be keeping our beautiful library up- the direction of fiber artist Carlee Tin- ing group led by Rick Fuller. Books are kler and ceramic artist Noelle Malevitis. to-date and useful for everyone. available for checkout one month before Registration is required and class size the meeting. New members are always is limited to the first 15 adults who Along with a new look, the library is welcome. getting a new director. I am leaving to signup. September 11 pursue a new career opportunity. It – The Giver by Lois Lowry has been my honor to serve as the SENIOR SURVIVAL TIPS October 9 Tuesday, October 22, 2019 Director of the Bridgman Public Library – TBA due to library renovations for the last six years and to work with 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. November 13 Join Bill Westerbeke, host of Youtube’s the library’s dedicated board, staff, – Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier and Friends. I want to thank the “Elder TipZone” as he discusses tips for December 11 seniors facing life challenges associated community, particularly the City of – A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah Bridgman, Lake Charter Township, with aging. Topics include technology, Chikaming Township, and the school YIN YOGA lifestyle, healthcare, safety and fitness, system for the friendly support they Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. and more. have shown the library and me. I will (No Class Sept. 19, Sept. 26, Oct. 3, miss everyone, but I am leaving the Oct. 10 due to renovations) DEMENTIA AND THE LAW library in the very capable hands. The Cheryl Meadors, certified yoga instruc- Tuesday, November 5, 2019 new Director’s name is Dennis Kreps. tor, leads a class at the library every 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Dennis has worked for the Kalamazoo Thursday. The class is suitable for be- Learn what dementia is, how life chang- Art Institute, the Kalamazoo Public ginning or intermediate yoga students. es with dementia and how it effects Library and is the former Director of Just bring your yoga mat, some water, the family. Speaker Bill Westerbeke the Richland Public Library. I know you and a $10 participation fee. 50% of the will discuss important considerations will welcome Dennis as warmly proceeds benefit the Bridgman Public in planning as it relates to you or your as you did me. Library. loved one with dementia.

READ MORE NEXT PAGE COMMUNITY BUZZ 17 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ Library Board Randy Hill – President Vacant- Vice President BRIDGMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY John Wilk - Secretary Ken Huff – Treasure Youth Programs Liz Bogue – Trustee Susan Collins – Trustee COMING SOON POP-UP LIBRARY @ REED MIDDLE Dorothea Crocker – Trustee We’re forming a new 3rd & 4th SCHOOL RESUMES Sue Janoskey – Trustee Grade Book Club @ Bridgman Dates TBA Aaron Noll – Trustee Elementary School. Look for an- Twice each month, BPL comes to you at nouncements at school. lunchtime for a brain snack!

characteristics of animals and how they OCTOBER fit into our diverse ecosystems. Hands- on artifacts include skins, skulls, wings, EARLY LITERACY CLASSES feathers and talons of several species WITH MISS TAMI native to Michigan. All ages. Classes Resume October 14 Baby and Me (ages 0-2) NATIONAL GAME & PUZZLE WEEK – Monday at 10:45 a.m. November 25-30 Toddler and Me (ages 3-5) during regular library hours – Tuesdays at 9:30 or 11:30 a.m. Drop in to the library and try out a new Story Hour (ages 3-5) HALLOWEEN PARTY game or revisit an old favorite. All ages. – Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 23 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. ROBLOX & MINECRAFT MEET-UP TWEEN BOOK CLUB Tuesday, November 19 At Reed Middle School, TBA Have your family join us for some tricks and many treats at our annual Hallow- 3:30-4:30 p.m. Look for announcements at school in Meet other players, show off your game, September. Grades 6-8. een Party. Costumes are encouraged but not mandatory. and attempt our build challenges. Bring your portable device with the TEEN ADVISORY BOARD: game already loaded. For students in GO AHEAD, BOSS US AROUND! NOVEMBER grades 2-12. Register at the circulation For students 12 and up or in grades 6-12. desk. TAB is for students who want to become more involved in the library. The group meets regularly with library staff to give DECEMBER input on book purchases, plan activities, TAB (TEEN ADVISORY BOARD) volunteer at library events, and more! MEETING: GO AHEAD, BOSS US AROUND! TAB KICKOFF MEETING AND December 3 MAC & CHEESE BAR 4 p.m. @ BPL Friday, October 25 UP CLOSE & WILD For students 12 and up or in grades 6-12. 3:30-4:30 p.m. WITH MICHIGAN WILDLIFE Meet with library staff to give input on Cook with your friends and brainstorm Saturday, November 2 book purchases, plan activities, volun- ideas for fun at the library. And eat! 10:30 a.m. teer at library events, and more! Register online at: The Outdoor Discovery Center will CONTINUED NEXT PAGE bridgmanlibrary.com/teens.asp introduce us to local wildlife. Live animals including reptiles, amphibians and birds will be used during the presentation. Learn unique COMMUNITY BUZZ 18 BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

Library Temporary Closing for Renovations

YOUTH PROGRAMS CONTINUED Sept. 20 (Fri.) – Oct. 5 (Sat.) The Bridgman Public Library will be closed WINTER BREAK READING BINGO for renovations, new paint, carpet and December 20 - February 1 furniture, Sept. 20 through Oct. 5. We are Can you fill your card before the snow sorry for the inconvenience. melts? Pick up your card starting De- cember 16. For age 2 and up. • Interlibrary loan service suspended Sept. 16 – Oct. 7 MOVIE MONDAY • No Wednesday Night Book Club in 1 p.m. December 23 & 30 October. December 23 • No Yoga Sept. 19 – Oct. 10 - Secret Life of Pets 2 - PG 86 minutes • No early literacy classes until Oct. 14 December 30 Visit www.bridgmanlibrary.com for more information - Toy Story 4 - G 90 minutes

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY December 31 Library of Things Collection 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Check out our new library of things collection! What’s a library of things? It’s a Are you too young to stay up until collection of objects, not books, for patrons to check out. Available now are Inter- midnight? Ring in 2020 a little early net hotspots, Launchpad tablets for kids, Chromebooks, metal detectors, record with fun at the library! Sign up at the players, ukuleles, and a sewing machine. Check back often because our collection is circulation desk starting December 1. growing. Age 2 and up. Library Community Garden Bridgman Community- The 2019 gardening season is drawing to a close with the garden officially closing November 1. Thank You to all the volunteers who make this garden a continued Wide Garage Sale success. Enjoy your winter and we’ll see you in the Spring! The Annual Community-Wide Garage Sale sponsored by the Friends of the Library takes place Sept 13 and 14, Library Community Calendar - Powered by LocalHop 2019. Maps with garage sale loca- Find local events on the library Community Calendar powered by LocalHop. tions will be available at the library on Click on the “Community Calendar” tab on the library website or download your Friday, Sept. 13 from 8 - 10 a.m. New free LocalHop app. this year - tables will be set up in the library’s south parking lot for addi- tional sales. Garage Sale Permits are $10. To be included on the map, be sure to purchase your permit by noon on Sat., Sept. 7. Table Permits are $15 and include one 6’ table and two chairs. Both Permits are for sale at the library.

BRIDGMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMUNITY BUZZ 19 9964 GAST ROAD, BRIDGMAN, MI 49106 bridgmanschools.com Office: 269-465-5432 Fax: 269-466-0221

BRIDGMAN COMMUNITY BUZZ

WEKO BEACH, PHOTO BY BOB CLARK

One community working together to serve you better.

Bridgman Public Schools Bridgman Elementary City of Bridgman Central Administration 3891 Lake Street 9765 Maple Street 9964 Gast Road Bridgman, Ml 49106 Bridgman, MI 49106 Bridgman, MI 49106 Office: 269-466-0241 bridgman.org bridgmanschools.com Fax: 269-466-0248 269-465-5144 Office: 269-465-5432 Fax: 269-466-0221 Bridgman Public Library Greater Bridgman Area 4460 Lake Street Chamber & Growth Alliance Bridgman High School Bridgman, MI 49106 P.O. Box 871 9964 Gast Road bridgmanlibrary.com Bridgman, MI 49106 Bridgman, MI 49106 269-465-3663 269-465-4413 Office: 269-465-6848 [email protected] Fax: 269-466-0355 Lake Charter Township F.C. Reed Middle School 3220 Shawnee, P.O. Box 818 10254 California Road Bridgman, MI 49106 Bridgman, MI 49106 lake-township.org Office: 269-465-5410 269-465-6601 Fax: 269-466-0393