The Berrien Springs-Oronoko Township Fire Department will receive a grant of more than $531,000 from the federal government. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow on Monday announced the grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. They say it will be used to improve operations and safety for firefighters and other personnel. Stabenow says “firefighters in Berrien Springs-Oronoko Township put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities.” She adds the “new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.” Berrien Springs-Oronko Township Fire Department Chief Doug Myers says the grant will “allow everyone in the county including our fire and ambulance services to upgrade to 800 MHz radios, which are far superior to what we were using.” He says it will be a protection for taxpayers.
Tribune Staff Report
BERRIEN SPRINGS After a 16-year hiatus, the Berrien Springs Pickle Festival returns from 7 a.m. to dusk Sunday.
The day begins with registration and packet pickup at 7 a.m. at the Berrien County Youth Fair, 9122 U.S, Hwy. 31, for the inaugural “In a Pickle 5K” race. Pre-register at runsignup.com. The race begins at 8 a.m.
The Berrien Springs-Oronoko Township Fire Department presents a breakfast from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Public Safety Building, 4583 Snow Road.
At 10:00 a.m., the festival starts on the grounds of the History Center at Courthouse Square and the Berrien Springs Community Library. Activities include contests such as big wheel racing, the pickle fling and a pickle decorating contest. Kids can enjoy old-fashioned games on the library grounds, with prizes for all winners. A special pickle-themed tasting room will be inside the 1839 Courthouse.