WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
This past weekend was a mixture of sadness and celebration. Saturday the funeral for Three Rivers Fire Lt. Erika Bloomfield was held. She fought the bravest battle with cancer, but finally succumbed last week. I’ve heard more than once that she had “spunk”, and during my brief time of working with her, I found that to be true. She didn’t want her funeral to be a time of sadness, but I’m afraid that couldn’t be helped. Those of us who knew and loved her cannot help but be sad over her passing, but we must celebrate the fact that she suffers no more and is in a better place. Our condolences go out to her family. If Erika could say anything right now, it would probably be, “Thanks for caring, guys, and thanks for your many tributes. Now, get on with the tasks at hand and serve your community, and make me proud. Love you all!”
On Sunday, September 11, a ceremony was held at the fairgrounds in Centreville. It was a recollection of September 1, 2001, better known as 911. It’s hard to believe that it has been ten years already. Thanks to all those responsible for putting together that wonderful program, and thanks to all of you who took the time to attend.
The St. Joseph County Conservation and Sportsman Club will host their Annual Outdoor Sporting Jubilee Sunday, September 25, beginning at 9 A.M. The festivities all take place at the club’s facilities, 23640 Featherstone Road, just east of Shimmel Road, near Centreville. Take the family and enjoy a day of shooting with rifles, shotguns, and handguns. If you have an interest in archery, that will also be available. If you’re more of a spectator, you’ll be happy to know that there will be demonstrations by the club’s Cowboy Posse of S.A.S.S. (Single Action Shooting Society), archery, defensive pistols, plus many more. What would a jubilee be without sweepstake prizes? There will many prizes given out such as firearms, sporting goods, and gift cards. Sweepstake tickets may be purchased from any club member up to and including the day of the jubilee. What a great way to spend part of a Sunday. Did I mention that admission and parking are FREE, and that there will be plenty of food available for purchase? Definitely mark September 25 down on your kitchen calendar.
It’s a fact that St. Joseph County has more than its share of people down on their luck. The current economy doesn’t help matters, but there is hope. There are some outlets that offer needed items for FREE, or at a minimal charge. For FREE, check out the County Closet, 901 South Main Street in Three Rivers. They have used clothing and many household items. The Free Store, 137 Portage Avenue, also in Three Rivers, offers household furnishings and clothing. If you are in need of medical assistance, try Riverside Health Clinic, 207 East Michigan Avenue in Three Rivers. Their walk-in and Medication Enrollment Clinic operates Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 P.M. Physicians are available on the second and last Tuesday of each month. If you’re a St. Joe County resident and are unemployed; working without insurance coverage; working to get off public assistance; have a seasonal job; or are unable to afford prescribed medication, this might just be what you’ve been looking for. Before you visit the clinic, give them a call at (269)273-3744. Find out what you need to take with you when you make a visit.
The city of Three Rivers has the finest police force and fire department in the area. Both departments are made up of dedicated individuals who put their lives on the line every time they go to work. They do their jobs, not for the money or glory, but because they love their community just as you do. They want Three Rivers to be a safe and friendly place to raise a family. The next time you see a police officer or fire fighter, thank her or him for serving and for allowing you to have a worry-free night’s sleep.
See you Out and About!
Submitted by Norm Stutesman
