Hoping to learn more about an ordinance that would make Niles one of 75 cities in Michigan to have National Historic Register designation, I came away with the song “Hanky Panky” lodged in my head. Simple lyrics: “My baby does the hanky panky, my baby does the hanky panky,” and so on… As I was looking at old photographs of the Leader Publications building, I was told that Tommy James recorded that song right here.
Based on the Niles DDA Main Street District design committee’s presentation, the ordinance seems like a great idea for all concerned. While ordinance is a scary word, it does not appear to be very restrictive. Property owners within the district would need to go before a board only if they would like to change the exterior of the building. Special kudos to Niles historian Donna Ochenryder, who developed a great history book with photographs that gave us an idea of what Niles architecture past looked like. I wonder if this might be something you would like us to publish?

Come put us in the
dunk tank
Leader Publications will have a dunk tank at the corner of Beeson and Depot in Dowagiac from noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. One dollar gets you three shots to put one of us into the water. Proceeds go to our local United Way.
Based on recent feedback, there are many of you that would like to have your shot at me for sharing a longtime Daily News staffer with the Daily Star. You will have your chance on Saturday. I’ll be in the hot seat from 2:30 until 5 p.m.
Advertising team leaders Sherina Gonzalez and Mary Cooper will be there Friday, along with circulation manager Cindy Klingerman and advertising salesman Phil Langer. On Saturday, I’ll be joined by Managing Editor Katie Rohman, writer extraordinaire John Eby, reporter Aly Gibson and advertising salesman Dan Leversen.
We hope you stop by to chat and knock a few of us into the dunk tank for a great cause.
“I saw my baby moving down the line. My baby does the hanky panky …” It just won’t stop.