Off The Water - November 22, 2013

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Grape and Grain

Modern-day Pollock Artist featured at ARS..................... p.4

Week of November 22-28, 2013

Traveling party tours...................... p.5

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 5, Number 47

Big city feel,

Small town charm page 8

www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of November 22-28, 2013

Off The Water, Michiana

FOCUS

Southwest Michigan celebrates small businesses

By Jill McCaughan The day after Thanksgiving has long been known as “Black Friday,” the day that retailers make their big profits for the year by offering discounts to throngs of shoppers. And then, of course, there is “Cyber Monday,” a day known since 2005 as one on which savvy shoppers can expect to find great deals at online retailers.

Over the past three years, a new idea has grown in popularity: Small Business Saturday. This day, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is one on which local merchants hope that shoppers will make a point to frequent their businesses.

“Studies have shown that, when you shop at a small business, all of your money stays locally, while only 47 cents of every dollar stays locally when you shop at a big box retailer,” said Tyanna Weller, president of the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also known as “Shop Small Saturday” or “Shop Local Saturday,” the idea of promoting small local retailers on this particular day was first promoted heavily by American Express credit card company for Nov. 27, 2010.

Since then, they have promoted the idea of shopping locally via television commercials and by offering information packets to local merchants via their website.

In 2011, the U.S. Senate passed Resolution 320, officially designating Nov. 26, 2011 as Small Business Saturday in order to “support efforts to encourage consumers to shop locally; and to increase awareness of the value of locally owned small businesses.”

That value is hard to o v e r- e s t i m a t e .

Senate

Resolution 320 notes that “small businesses employ half of the employees in the private sector in the United States…[and] generate 60 to 80 percent of all new jobs annually.”

So far, Small Business Saturday appears to have been a big success.

American Express estimates that consumers spent $5.5 billion at locallyowned retailers on Small Business Saturday in 2012.

That translates into more money for each community.

This year, several chambers of commerce in Southwest Michigan are planning special promotions, as are individual business owners. Niles, Dowagiac and St. Joseph all have something special going on, as do many of the other communities.

Visiting the website of your local chamber of commerce is a good way to find out what might be happening in other towns in the region.

Niles “We all need to try to help keep as much money in Niles as we can,” Weller said.

To that end, Niles merchants are joining together to hold the Third Annual Niles Shopping Party. As with previous years, merchants will be featuring special deals and holding a raffle for shoppers. A nonperishable food item is all that shoppers must bring in order to register to win a flat-screen TV, courtesy of the Niles Radio Shack. The food donations will benefit the Ferry Street Resource Center.

Some of the participating merchants in Niles include Bella’s Gifts & Memories, Moore Theaters, Niles Styles, Main Street Antique Mall, Pizza Transit, The Truck

Store, Four Flags Antique Mall and Olfactory Hue Bistro. A Holiday Bazaar will also be hosted at The Bell Building, 305 Sycamore St., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. that day.

Dowagiac The Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce has planned a series of three Christmas events.

Dowagiac Small Business Saturday will be the second of the events, with the annual Christmas Open House Weekend (Nov. 22-24) being the first, and the Candle-light Christmas Parade (Dec. 6) being the third. Attending the open house weekend will provide shoppers with the opportunity to win one of 11 $50 universal Dowagiac gift cards.

Shoppers can register for the gift-card drawing at Country Florist, Dowagiac Vacuum Center, Glamour Plus, The Hairitage, Imperial Furniture, The Marshall Shoppe, Southwestern Michigan College bookstore, The Tipsy Gypsy, Vincent J. Jewelers and Wounded Minnow Saloon, along with Hamsters and its companion shop, Somewhere in Time.

Winners will be drawn Monday, Nov. 25. Shoppers can then use the cards to purchase items in stores all over Dowagiac before Christmas, including on Small Business Saturday.

“Small Business Saturday is a day to do our part for those businesses that do so much for our community,” said Vickie Phillipson, director of the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Development

Authority.

Just a few of the merchants that will be offering special deals and promotions on Nov. 30 include The Marshall Shoppe, Vincent J. Jewelers and Tipsy Gypsy.

St. Joseph While not focusing specifically on Small Business Saturday, “St. Joseph Today plans to promote holiday shopping at downtown retail locations all season long,” said Jill Stone, executive director of St. Joseph Today.

This

will include the majority of State Street merchants offering extended holiday shopping hours, remaining open until at least 8 p.m. for shoppers’ convenience.

The lack of a planned multi-store event in St. Joseph on Nov. 30 does not mean there won’t be deals to be found. For example, “The Candlestick Maker [408 State St.] will be offering 12 percent off all items in the store, as well as giving away a free t-shirt with all purchases (while they last),” said Judi Benninghoff, owner of the store.

A few doors down, Lynne Christiano, owner of Purely Michigan, 406 State

St., will be offering “taste testing of our food products that day,” she said.

Other stores that will offer specials include G&M Variety, Perennial Accents and the Olive Cart.

Local merchants and leaders in the business community hope residents will consider shopping locally this post-Thanksgiving weekend.

“Small businesses like those on State Street in St. Joseph are driving the American economy,” said Christiano, whose store specializes in Michiganmade products. “They employ local people, and the money that is made here stays here. It helps us give back to our community.”

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of November 22-28, 2013 • Page 3

SPOTLIGHT

Children’s Music Workshop Presents 'Shrek The Musical'

By Jill McCaughan A fire-breathing, 20-footlong pink dragon will be taking up residence in Lakeshore High School.

What’s going on? On Nov. 22, Children’s Musical Workshop (CMW) will be transforming the stage into a bookshelf full of fairy tales, and well-known characters will come alive, popping out of the books to present “Shrek The Musical.”

Along with the 81 cast members, ranging in age from six to 18 years old, about 100 volunteers and several very dedicated theater professionals, have been working hard for 12 weeks to ready this “fairy tale within a fairy tale” for the stage. A story now familiar to most, “Shrek” recounts the tale of an grumpy ogre who turns out to be a hero in the end.

Hollywood specialeffects artist John Lovell will be creating a prosthetic that will make Shrek look just as he did on Broadway.

In this story, “It’s not what’s on the outside; it’s what’s on the inside that counts,” said Susan Matheny, director of the production.

In some respects, that seems to be a good description not only of the show, but also of the theater company that’s putting on the show.

“Audience members can expect to see the communi-

ty of youth…perform to a level that’s beyond children’s theater. Even though we are Children’s Music Workshop, the productions that these children put on are amazing. Everybody’s always impressed. It’s a great teaching moment for them and us,” said David Neidlinger, Assistant Director, President of the CMW and father of two cast members.

“A lot of people think, ‘Oh, it’s kids’ theater, ugh.’

But, we’re not kids’ theater.

We’re theater with kids doing it, but we’re grownup theater,” Matheny said.

“We have thousands of people come to our shows, people who don’t have kids, because they’re just good shows. It takes a lot of people, and we love doing it.”

Children’s Music Workshop, a non-profit organization, has been providing youth with the opportunity to do “grown-up theater” for 12 years now.

Partially supported by grants from the Frederick S. Upton Foundation and The Berrien Community Foundation among others, their support also comes from ticket sales and from the fees that families pay in order to participate.

However, parents shouldn’t hesitate to get their children involved in upcoming shows because of a lack of money.

“Children’s Music

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Workshop also has scholarships available to any family who needs it because we don’t want money to ever be the reason that kids don’t do it…. We’re really close to having given away $100,000 in scholarships over the course of the pro-

gram,” Matheny said.

Information is available at www.cmwonline.org for parents who would like their kids to share in this great experience. Auditions for CMW’s next show, “The Music Man Junior,” will be taking place in

January.

And, for those who would like to support a community-based organization while being thoroughly entertained, CMW will be offering three performances of “Shrek”: at 7 p.m., Nov. 22 and 23, and a 4 p.m. matinee on Nov. 24.

Tickets can be ordered by phone at (269) 422-2930 or purchased at the door.

They are $10 for adults and $6 for seniors/students, and discounts are available for groups of 15 or more.

Just like Shrek himself, who has a hidden heart of gold, there is more to CMW

than meets the eye. It’s not just about months of rehearsals, building elaborate sets, Hollywoodquality special effects, lots of beautiful costumes, and carefully learned songs and dances.

“It’s not about the theater being awesome, even though it is awesome,” Matheny said. “It’s about teaching kids how to be decent human beings and leaders, and we do it by teaching them how to do good theater. We make an expectation to these older kids to mentor the little kids.”

Leader Photo/JILL McCAUGHAN

Over 80 children from all over southwest Michigan will perform 'Shrek: The Musical' beginning Nov. 22

Produced and printed by Leader Publications 217 N. 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 Off the Water is available throughout southwest Michigan and the greater South Bend, Indiana area.

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Page 4 • Week of November 22-28, 2013

Off The Water, Michiana

ON DISPLAY

'Inside-Out, Upside-Down or Sideways' Will Hafeman at the ARS Gallery

By Jill McCaughan Last week, the walls of the ARS Gallery looked a lot more like those of an old warehouse than those of an art gallery. But, all of that will change by Friday, Nov. 22. Bare and crumbling in places, those walls will soon serve as the perfect backdrop for Will Hafeman’s colorful, abstract paintings.

The ARS Gallery in the Benton Harbor Arts District will be hosting an opening reception to celebrate the work of Will Hafeman. The reception, from 6 to 8 p.m., is free and open to the public. Hafeman’s paintings will be on display there through Jan. 14, 2014.

“It will be the perfect kick-off to the holiday,” said Anna Russo Sieber, owner of the ARS Gallery.

“There will be a live performer, and of course, Russo Sieber promises to provide “the small bites

and wine selection that [she has] come to be known for.”

With 35 years of experience as the owner of a successful advertising and design business under his belt, Will Hafeman shifted

his focus towards creating pieces that emphasize color and form. The Chicagobased artist lists among his influences Gerhart Richter, Sigmar Polke, Mary Heilmann and Mark Bradford.

“Will Hafeman is a sort of mid-century modern art-

ist [whose] work is very Pollack-like.” He starts with “layers and layers of acrylic paint. Then, he takes them and cuts them into strips and reassembles them on tar paper or board…. He deconstructs the paint and reconstructs it,” Russo Sieber said.

“Hafeman lets chance and deconstruction reveal the secret life of paint — a life that is both beautiful and arresting — without the use of brush or canvas.”

According to Hafeman, “Through pouring, throwing, dripping and smearing of repurposed paint, I have a limited control over the materials. They do what they will. By deconstructing the original image and building it anew, compositions are created that could not be worked out ahead of time. The work may be inside-out, upside down, sideways and totally reordered from where it began.”

Russo Sieber describes “Hafeman’s paintings [as]

Leader Photo/Provided

Will Hafeman laces painted strips together to create a unique Pollock-esque piece. stunning — filled with action, color, form, texture and expression. Much like relief sculpture, you literally see the design, pattern, gesture and movement of his paintings in profile.

Will is a brilliant artist!”

ARS is located at 147 Fifth St. in Benton Harbor, Mich. And, as Russo Sieber

pointed out, two nearby art galleries will be open Friday evening as well, providing guests with a convenient opportunity for an evening of gallery hopping.

At 3 Pillars, located inside the Brammall Supply Warehouse at 198 Water Street, “The owner,

Laura Boyce, a Cranbrook graduate, will be exhibiting her unique sculptures, created from found objects,” said Russo Sieber.

Meanwhile, at 210 Art Space (210 Water Street), Gideon Douglas will have “a pop-up gallery with abstract paintings that are very beautiful.”

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Off The Water, Michiana

TOURIST FOR A DAY

Week of November 22-28, 2013 • Page 5

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

Grape and Grain Tours

By Jill McCaughan

can charter the bus for weekday tours and choose the specific locations that they’d like to visit. Kim said that Grape and Grain would even make arrangements to pick up and drop off clients at the location of their choice. (Weekend tours currently start in New Buffalo at two pick-up locations: the Harbor Grand Hotel and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites.)

The weekday charters also cost less than the weekend tours. While tickets for the Saturday and Sunday

sider a Grape and Grain charter when they are making their holiday party plans.

“It’s also great for bachelor and bachelorette parties,” Kim said.

And she is happy to make up memory gift baskets for each of the clients, including corks and other little souvenirs from the day’s activities.

While winter might not seem like a prime time for winery tours, Saturday tours are already booked up through mid-December. Some Sundays are still available, as are

Over the past few years, the wineries of Southwest Michigan have become a big draw for tourists from surrounding regions, especially Northern Indiana and Chicago. A new industry was born: Tours of the various wineries via motor-coach.

“For years we would watch tour buses come in and out of the Round Barn Winery every weekend, and every weekend we’d look at each other and say ‘we can do that,’” said Matt Moersch, whose family owns Round Barn Winery and Free Run Cellars.

After many conversations about the details, a partnership between Moersch and Kim and Grant Knuth was born.

The result was Grape and Grain Tours.

In an effort to differentiate their company from other tours, Moersch and the Knuths decided to offer a number of services that others do not. And, although their tour service may appear at first blush to cater more to tourists, they offer some options that will appeal specifically to residents of Southwest Michigan.

So, what makes Grape and Grain Tours different?

“We’re unique because we showcase distilleries, wineries and breweries — all three. Other companies only visit wineries,” Kim Knuth said.

There are so many establishments to choose from when planning a tour that Grape and Grain offers two different tours: one on Saturday and one on Sunday.

Saturday’s six-hour tour includes stops at Journeyman Distillery, Greenbush Brewery, The Round Barn Leader Photos/Provided Public House and the Round Barn Winery. Grape and Grain tours transport patrons to hot spots like Round Barn Winery and Green Bush Sunday’s five-hour Brewery. tour includes visits to Tapestry Brew House, The Round Barn Public House, Free tours are $50 per person, the weekday weekdays. And, as the Grape and Run Cellars and the Round Barn charters cost a total of $450 for up to Grain website points out, wintertime 12 people. Broken down, that is only is a great time to get out of the cold Winery.

“The reason we chose these desti- $37.50 per person. Kim notes that the and visit the warm and inviting celnations was simple and can be cost is pretty good for an all-day lars, breweries and distilleries nestled summed up in one word — ‘unique,’” event, with charters lasting six hours. in the rolling countryside of “These prices do not include tast- Southwest Michigan.

Kim said. “We wanted to give our More information and reservations customers an experience they ing fees. Tasting fees and flights wouldn’t forget, and we felt these range from $5 to $14 depending on are available on the Grape and Grain location,” said Kim. Tours website: www.grapeandgrainplaces were some of the best.”

Kim suggested that people con- tours.com.

Another difference is that clients

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Thanksgiving menu ideas The holidays can be a real challenge for any health conscious eater. At a time of year when we are supposed to be counting our blessings, it seems sort of ironic to stuff yourself with lots of naughty foods that make you feel lethargic. This year, make an effort not to abuse yourself too much. Be thankful for your health, and honor it by creating some healthful, hearty, holiday magic.

Over the years of providing people vegan recipe ideas, I’ve noticed that main course and desserts are the most taxing part of creating a crowd pleasing vegan menu come holiday season. For that reason, I’ve chosen a couple stand outs in each category. I hope you find them helpful!

Butternut Squash, Apple, Cranberry Bake For the crumb topping: 6 tablespoons veg margarine or coconut oil 2 ⁄3 cup almond meal 1 ⁄8 teaspoon + dash cloves 1 ⁄8 teaspoon + dash allspice

2 ⁄3

cup buckwheat flour ¾ cup brown sugar 1 ⁄8 teaspoon + dash nutmeg 1 ⁄8 teaspoon + dash ginger

For the bake: 2 cups partially cooked butternut squash, sliced thin (bake in oven at 375 about 25 mins) 2 cups McIntosh apples, very thinly sliced 12 oz fresh cranberries ½ cup organic sugar 3 tablespoons buckwheat flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla ¼ teaspoon lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice To make the crumb topping: 1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Use an electric mixer or whisk until coarse crumbs form.

To make the bake: 1. Grease a 9x13 baking dish and preheat oven to 375.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, cranberries, sugar, flour, vanilla, zest, and juice. Transfer to the baking dish and sprinkle with crumb topping.

3. Bake until topping is browned, and juices are thick and bubbling around the edges, about 45 minutes. Let cool before serving.

Off The Water, Michiana

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Cornmeal Gravy For the stuffed squash: 4 acorn squash ¼ cup millet 1 heaping cup red onion 2 ½ cups firmly packed torn Ezekiel Bread (found in the freezer section) 1 tablespoon sesame seeds ½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ cup wild rice 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cloves garlic minced 1 cup fresh orange juice 1 teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon dried sage

For the gravy: 1 white onion, diced ½ cup cornmeal 1 ½ cups almond milk ¼ teaspoon dried sage ¼ teaspoon mustard ½ teaspoon vegan worcestershire

1 ½ tablespoon grapeseed oil 3 cups vegetable stock 1 teaspoon onion sea salt ½ teaspoon thyme ¼ teaspoon white pepper

To make the stuffed squash: 1. Halve the squashes and scoop out seeds and fibers (save seeds to bake later for a snack).

2. Place squash cut side up in shallow baking dishes and cover tightly with foil.

Bake for about 40 minutes at 375°, or until easily pierced with a knife but still firm.

3. Meanwhile, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the wild rice and millet, reduce to a simmer, then cover and cook until the water is absorbed, about 40 mins.

4. Heat the oil in a skillet. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until golden. Place onions and garlic in a mixing bowl, and combine with the wild rice and the remaining ingredients. Set aside until squash are full cool.

5. Once squash is cool, carefully scoop out the pulp, leaving the shells intact.

6. Combine pulp with millet and rice mixture, fill shells with the stuffing, and bake at 350° for about 20 minutes. Top with Cornmeal Gravy.

To make the gravy: 1. Heat a large, deep skillet or sauce pan. Add the oil and then the onion. Saute until translucent, then add the cornmeal and the vegetable stock, making a roux.

Stir in the almond milk as needed.

2. Add the seasonings, and let simmer until desired consistency is reached.

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Off The Water, Michiana

Week of November 22-28, 2013 • Page 7

Swish Chard Manicotti Serves: 4-6 For the sauce: ½ cup yellow or white onion 1 tablespoon olive oil 3 cloves fresh garlic, chopped or pressed 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes ¼ cup tomato paste 2 tablespoons dried basil 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon black pepper ½ tablespoon dried parsley ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) ½ cup sliced sundried tomatoes 1 green bell pepper ¼- ½ cup nutritional yeast (optional) For the tofu stuffing: 1 16 ounce block tofu 2 cups arugula 1 teaspoon sea salt 3 tablespoons EVOO 2 tablespoons cornmeal

About ¾ cup shallot ¼ teaspoon oregano ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¾ cup cooked quinoa or wild rice

6 large swiss chard leaves

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To make the sauce: 1. Heat the oil a in a sauce pan. Add the onion, and saute until translucent.

2. Next, add the garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, then add the crushed tomatoes, tomatoes paste, and seasonings, whisking constantly until fully combined.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add the green peppers and sundried tomatoes.

4. Allow to simmer for about 20 minutes before stirring in the nutritional yeast.

Simmer another 5-10 minutes, then pour over your casserole.

To make the tofu filling: 1. Let tofu drain on a paper towel or cheesecloth for at least 30 minutes.

2. Place all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, and toss well with clean hands.

To assemble the casserole: 1. Carefully cut the stem off of the char leaves, leaving the rib in place.

2. Fill each leaf with about ¼ cup tofu filling, then roll tightly. Place seam end down in a class 9x13 baking dish.

3. Cover with sauce, and bake at 375 until sauce is bubbling, about 30 minutes.

Page 8 • Week of November 22-28, 2013

Off The Water, Michiana

CUISINE SCENE

Restaurant brings Chicago atmosphere to small town It was about five weeks ago that the Bucktown Tap opened its doors in Buchanan, Mich. Judging by the numbers, the timing was just right.

“It was the second Friday of October, the day of the Buchanan homecoming,” said Dan O’Sullivan, co-owner of the new restaurant and bar that is located at 259 East Front St. “We had 800 people come through the first three days…. It’s been steady. We’ve been able to finally predict, which is nice.”

Natives of Chicago, Ill., O’Sullivan and his wife, Laura, teamed up with long-time Buchanan resident Jennifer Hoover and her husband, Lonnie, to purchase the restaurant.

They met when their sons were on the same Little League baseball team, and the plan for the restaurant grew out of their mutual desire for “a new and different spot close to home where they could meet for dinner with the family or date-night drinks,” Laura O’Sullivan said.

The two couples began an extensive renovation of the bar in May. “We took it back to the studs and rebuilt it from there,” Dan O’Sullivan said of the building constructed in 1949.

The results are quite attractive — very reminiscent of the bars and eateries that one will find in the trendy neighborhood of Bucktown, Chicago.

A tin ceiling, wooden bar, and a gleaming brass tap rail are all features that the O’Sullivans and Hoovers added to give their establishment a “Bucktown” feel. Of course, the name they

chose reflects that style choice as well, but it also pays homage to the longtime nickname for the town of Buchanan.

Their selection of craft beers is also reminiscent of those found in bars in Bucktown, Chicago, but Buchanan’s Bucktown puts an emphasis on southwestern Michigan’s brews.

“One of the things we really wanted to do was to

Bell’s from Kalamazoo, and Founders from Grand Rapids. We also have Round Barn, from just around the corner, Tapistry from Bridgman and Greenbush.”

Since their opening weekend, the Hoovers and O’Sullivans have worked to make their restaurant better.

“We’ve made some changes to the menu, and brought some different people in,” said Dan O’Sullivan. “We don’t want to do anything that’s not perfect.”

“One of the things we wanted was to keep a family-friendly atmosphere here all the hours we were open. We wanted a place that would definitely appeal to families,” Dan O’Sullivan said.

Leader Photo/Provided

A salad served at Bucktown Tap. wiches and tomato soup, spaghetti and meatballs, macaroni and cheese, and finally, a chicken and

Leader Photo/Provided

Bucktown Tap has a large selection of tap beer and liquor. represent… craft beers from Berrien County, and we have a fair amount of them, actually Southwest Michigan, on tap. We have

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To that end, O’Sullivan cheese quesadilla. is also proud to offer a “We just wanted to children’s menu that make sure the kids got proincludes burgers with tein,” said Dan O’Sullivan. fries, grilled cheese sandAs for the adult fare

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that the Bucktown Tap offers, favorites include a range of appetizers and sandwiches.

“We can’t make enough bacon-wrapped poppers for a day.…They’re huge pieces of jalapeno with a special cream cheese mixture, and wrapped in a whole piece of bacon, and it is baked in a special oven so that it’s not fried,” said Dan O’Sullivan.

“The Buck Burger is kind of a staple. It moves a lot. The Bennie Burger is also very popular. We’ve gotten rave reviews….We also have sweet potato tots that go well with anything,” he said.

Bucktown Tap also offers selections for vegetarians, including a black bean burger and a special version of Scottish Eggs.

“Instead of using a sausage coating [around the hard-boiled egg], we use a kidney bean, garlic, and sunflower paste that breads nicely against it, and then we pop it in the fryer for 80 or 90 seconds,” said Dan O’Sullivan.

All of the owners have

high hopes for the Bucktown Tap. “We kind of wanted to make this our favorite place. When you do that, you really can’t go wrong,” Dan O’Sullivan said.

The Bucktown Tap’s winter hours are now in effect. They are open Mondays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. “to better serve the dinner crowd,” said Dan O’Sullivan. (They are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.)

Looking toward summer already, they plan to move Sunday hours earlier to take advantage of the deck for people to have brunch.

“It’s been amazing to watch the revitalization of our downtown and the greater Buchanan area,” Jennifer Hoover said. “To be a part of that means a lot to me. I can’t wait for our family and friends to create some lasting memories here.”

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Call for hours 269-756-7457 or 269-930-7458 www.KaminskiFarms.com • 16682 Schwark Road • Three Oaks, MI

9 MARKETPLACE

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of November 22-28, 2013 • Page 9

Marketplace GOT SOMETHING TO SELL? LIST IT HERE FOR ONLY $10. CALL (888) 725-0108

Production Line Workers Production Line Workers needed for aerosol-liquid manufacturing facility.

Job description includes but it not limited to: making boxes; packing; capable of staging and de-staging components; verification of correct components per BOM; complete appropriate paperwork for assigned job.

Please apply online at www.tri-pac.us or send cover letter and resume to HR@tri-pac.us

Receptionist/Office Assistant

Receptionist/Office Assistant needed for aerosol-liquid manufacturing facility. Excellent written and verbal communication skills required. Job duties include but not limited to: answering multi-line phones; computer d entry; mail distribution. Microsoft Office including Word and Excel required; knowledge of SAP Business 1 a plus.

Please apply online at www.tri-pac.us or send cover letter and resume to HR@tri-pac.us

Production Supervisor Aerosol-liquid manufacturing facility looking for experienced production supervisor. Good communication and organizational skills required.

Experience in Aerosol/Liquid manufacturing.

Minimum 4-6 years’ experience in production supervision. Proficiency in Forklift required along with hazmat training. Job duties include but not limited to: supervision of aerosol and liquid production lines; stage-destage production line; daily production reporting; computer entry; scheduling.

Now Hiring!!

MUST SEE

Truss Production Supervisor

• Plans, schedules, supervises and coordinates all activities related to the manufacture of truss components, specialty products, etc, including quality control, delivery of goods and other support functions • Responsible for productivity and quality management • Recommends equipment upgrades, staffing adjustments, process modifications.

• Previous truss and/or wall panel production experience preferred.

Email resume to Recruiting@zeelandlumber.com

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS (269) 408-1980 Three Oaks Assembly Welders Pick and Pack Reliable Applicants APPLY TODAY!

www.stjosephmi.expresspros. com

Driver Trainees

Needed Now! Learn to drive for US Xpress!

Earn $800+ per week!

No experience needed!

CDL-Trained and Job-Ready in 15 days!

1-800-882-7364

Please apply online at www.tri-pac.us or send cover letter and resume to HR@tri-pac.us

General Notices 106 CATHY JO MASTER STYLIST

EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS HIRING!

NEW STIHL DEALER

EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOLS 69410 SECTION STREET EDWARDSBURG, MI 49112

& Independent Sales Rep. Can help you save, make money. Call 269-635-0831 Sales & Service Decatur Lumber True Value, 312 East Sherwood St. Decatur MI (269)423-7006 M-F 7:30-5, Sat 8-1, Sun 10-1

Help Wanted

300

HIGH SCHOOL AT-RISK DATA TECHNICIAN (SEND RESUME TO MR. RYAN MARKEL) CUSTODIAN/ MAINTENANCE NIGHT TIME CUSTODIAN SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS (SEND RESUME TO MR. TONY KOONTZ) OR APPLY ON LINE AT

www. edwardsburgpublicschools.org

EOE

Elderly Care 307 CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH AIDE

looking for full or part time home care for your family member, excellent references. Call (269)684-0758

1 Fort Street- Niles 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Apartment available Now! 1/2 off First 2 Month's Rent Call Today 684-4500!

Office Space for Rent

427

OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT

1st office space has dual entrances off 4th & Sycamore in Niles and has 1 large office or can be divided into 2 smaller offices. Lease includes heat, gas, water, sewer, $800/month for both offices or $450/month for one. 2nd office space has 1 entrance off 4th St. in Niles and has a reception area plus 2 offices, $350/month. Call or email mike.caldwell@leaderpub. com.

(269)687-7700

Houses for Sale 500 DOWAGIAC DOLL HOUSE

SILVERBROOK NILES

Skilled Nursing Facility Offering Short or Long Term Care & Rehab to Home Call to Schedule Tour 269-684-4320

Instruction & 309 Training Niles Community Schools...

Building a Foundation the Future.

Please call 269-683-0732 for enrollment information.

P.D.K. TRI-PAC Hiring for Multiple Positions.

See our larger ad in today's paper.

Apartments 412 PAWATING VILLAGE

Firearm Instruction NRA Instructed Concealed Pistol License Classes offered monthly! Contact Paul: 269-462-2584 or Kelly: 269-783-6570

Spacious Home 3 Bedrooms Sunroom Wonderful Kitchen Call or Text Chris Moore (269)362-5665 Freedom Realty (269)687-8484

EDWARDSBURG SCHOOLS

"New roof", country setting on 2 acres, move-in-ready, 3 bed, 1 bath, eat in kitchen, living room, laundry room, enclosed porch, appliances included, 1 car garage, barn, garden shed, central air, $93,500. 946 Leet Rd., Niles, MI. NO LAND CONTRACTS. Call (269)6843655 or (574)298-6671

1709 Howard St., Niles, Complete Remodel including electric, windows, flooring, and wall board, 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 baths. $89,900 (269)687-8855

NILES TWP. CONDO FOR SALE

No more yard to mow, or leaves to rake - when you purchase this charming 3 BR, 2 BA condo located close to IN/MI line. The location is close to dining, shopping and entertainment.

The open concept features; kitchen w/snack bar, all kitchen appliances; refrigerator, range, microwave, and dishwasher.

Cathedral ceilings with skylights to let in additional natural light, 3 season porch, loft with closet, 2-car attached garage, full finishable basement w/ egress window. **Seller will provide a carpet allowance with and acceptable offer.** $119,900 Integrity Real Estate Professionals 1441 Oak St. Niles Call 259-362-2599 for an appointment

OVER 20 ACRES

18699 Williams St. Cassopolis, MI of natural beauty in Michigan! 7 minutes from Elkhart. Open split bedroom floor plan offers over 2500 sq.ft. with 6 bedrooms/4.5 bath including guest quarters. Barn, pool, creek, pond, and horse/dirt bike trails. Edwardsburg schools This house is a must see! $410,000 Visit www.SoGoodToBeHome.com for photo tour or call Coldwell Banker, RWG Patty Lauten (574)340-4271 (269)663-8800

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, 11/24 2:00-4:00 pm

Well maintained 3 BR home on 1 acre. Brandywine Schools. Debbie Floor Realtor. Cell (269)362-2599 www.TwoSpousesSelling Houses.com.

Integrity Real Estate Professionals

Manufactured Homes

502

INVENTORY BLOW OUT!!

2 Bd/2 Bth home, $456*/MO! Vaulted ceilings, skylights, Spacious kitchen Call today!

269-695-3119

Mobile Homes 506 MOBILE HOME

Niles- 2 bdrm 1 Bth. Rent to Own $495 / mnth, Down payment required. Located in a quite, peaceful, comfortable community. Call 219-285-1671 for more info.

Antiques AIDEN'S

600

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

We buy storage units & estates and sell the treasures back to you.

Mon., Weds. & Thurs.

12-5pm (closed Tues.)

Fri., Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm 822 Fort St., Niles (269)830-3790

Auctions

603

************

YOU NEVER KNOW AUCTION HOUSE AH:21000020

53847 N. Park Ave. Elkhart, IN. Every Fri. at 5:30p.m. Now taking clean big & small consignment.

Drop off merchandise SatThurs Daily 10-5. Pick-up available. Someone here at all times. For more details call David (574)522-1020 or Trish (574) 206-6296 #AU01042788

Page 10 • Week of November 22-28, 2013

Submit calendar events to Jill McCaughan, feature writer, by email at jill.mccaughan@leaderpub.com or otw@leaderpub. com or visit the Leader Publications office at 217 N. Fourth Street, Niles.

i

Russ Williamson. Sky Lounge, Mishawaka, Ind. Doors open at 7; show is from 8 to 9:30 p.m. For more information, call Jayson Smith (574) 257-0759 or visit www.skymichiana.com.

Nov. 21

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Members of the Cass County Pioneer Log Cabin Museum meet at 6 p.m. at the Cass County Library on M-62 in Cassopolis.

The Steel City Rovers will be playing (with Jann Klose opening) at The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20. For info & tickets, call (269) 7563879, or visit the website at www.acorntheater.com.

“Inside-Out, UpsideDown, or Sideways”: The Art of Will Hafeman.

Opening reception from 6-8 p.m. ARS Gallery, 147 5th St., Benton Harbor, MI. Call (269) 208-4409 for more information.

(Paintings will be on display through 1/14/14.)

WHAT'S HAPPENING? and Gospel Ensemble will present their Fall Fine Arts Concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Hanson Theatre. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens, and $4 for groups of 20 or more. Contact the LMC Box Office at (269) 927-1221 for tickets. For more information, contact the LMC Performing Arts Office at (269) 927-8876.

“Date Night in the Clay Studio” takes place at the South Bend Museum of Art, 120 St. Joseph Street, South Bend from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Call (574) 235-9102 for St. Joseph Today Luminary more information and to Festival, State Street, St. register for the workshop.

Joseph. Dusk to 9 p.m. For Nov. 22-23 more information, call (269) 985-1111 or visit www.stjoetoday.com.

Shrek the Musical, present-

ed by Children’s Music.

Lakeshore High School The Lake Michigan College Auditorium, Stevensville.

Jazz Band, Chamber Tickets: $10 adults; $6 Comedians Ryan Dalton and Players, String Ensemble, seniors/students. Tickets Nov. 22

CLASSIFIEDs AUCTION

Sunday, November 24 starts at 1pm, viewing at 11am for more information go to auctionzip.com Auctioneer #13777 J & J Auction (formerly Martin Auction Service) 6525 M-139 Berrien Springs, MI 49103 (269)429-5120 (taking consignment)

Miscellaneous GREAT DEAL

666

on Floor Trusses 26' 1" Center Bearing Floor Trusses Call Judd Lumber for pricing and details Call for pricing (269)782-5134

professionally removed? We are insured and can remove your TV tower safely. DeMission Hills-2 in old rugged pending on condition your cross $1200/each. 2 in tine old tower may be worth for $800/each. 1 for $600 money. Call 269-363-2036 Call 269-358-9922 Ask for Mike

Consignment Turn your Closet into

Kids' clothing: newborn to teen, Baby gear & furniture, Maternitywear

Accepting only winter outwear Nov. - Jan. Call for appointment.

Who kNew Consignment 269-782-9800

Fall leaf clean up, clean beds, preen, mulch, trim shrubs, edging, create new beds & much more (269)759-1012 Ellen

washers, gas & electric ranges. Call (269)687-8639

WE WILL BUY

your junk car. We haul for free. Paying up to $1500 cash. Please call anytime 269-687-8098

Complete Tree Service SAME DAY ESTIMATES Insured, Competitive Rates.

269-687-4972

Optical Services 726 AK MONTGOMERY OFFERS eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses & more akmontgomery.com to schedule online, or Call (269)782-3476

Home Improve700 ment HOME REPAIRS & 642 REMODELING Recycling Service

Washers & Dryers, Stoves, Refrigerators and More. Inventory Always Changing.

2559 S. 11th St. Niles (269) 591-7922

FOR SALE

medium size refrigerators working or not,

Used & reconditioned washers, ranges, dryers, refrigerators & freezers.

Geiger Refrigeration Service 841 Carberry Rd. Niles (269)687-8639

Over 25 years of experience, tile work, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks & porches, windows & doors, window wrapping, siding, fascia & soffit. Insured! Call Randy (269)782-3139 (269)208-9838

MR. MAINTENANCE FREE ESTIMATES

Roofing, Siding & Windows, Light Hauling & Spring Clean-Ups, No Inside or Outside job too big or small.

Low affordable rates.

(269)591-1403

can be purchased at the Oaks, 8 p.m. Tickets are door or by credit card: 269- $20. For info & tickets, call (269) 756-3879, or visit the 422-2930. 7 p.m. website at www.acorntheater.com.

The Firehouse Variety Hour, a variety of “off beat” performers. South Bend Dowagiac Old-Fashioned Civic Theater, Portage Ave., Christmas Celebration South Bend, IN. For tickets, Open House Family call (574) 234-111 or visit Activities. In and around www.sbct.org.7:30 p.m.

Beckwith Park and 5 indoor locations. Santa will Nov. 22-24 be at Wood Fire Trattoria 10 a.m. For more information, call (269) 782-8212.

Dowagiac Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration. 11 $50 gift certificates will be 17th Annual Arts and Craft available. See OTW’s Show at Dowagiac Union “Focus” section for more High School in conjunction information. with Dowagiac’s OldFashioned Christmas Nov. 23 Celebration Weekend, 701 W. Prairie Ronde St., Dowagiac, MI. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Katie Todd Band (with Nov. 24 James Neary, opening) will be playing (with Jann Klose opening) at The Acorn Theater, 107 Shrek the Musical, preGenerations Drive, Three sented by Children’s

743

CRIMINAL DEFENSE 123 W. Madison St., Ste. 1700, Chicago, IL

801 Carberry Rd, Niles 269-687-5865

Nov. 26 The Cassopolis United Methodist Church will be having their annual “Christmas by Candlelight program (a community event) Monday Dec. 2, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. at 209 S Rowland, Cassopolis. We will be serving homemade dessert, coffee, and juice.

We need your reservations by November 26th to Char Hiemstra at (269) 445-2334.

i

Cass County COA offers a lecture and tour of the Heddon Museum starting at 11:30 a.m.

New 2014

Harley Davidson Models Are Here..

1910 Lincolnway East, South Bend.

(574) 289-6650 or shop www.mcdanielsharleydavidson.com

(312)345-0850 (312)282-2655 dwgrissomjr@sbcglobal.net Licensed in Michigan & Illinois

Montero Endeavor SUV. 180K mi. Leather interior, 4WD. Heated seats. Seats 57. Few minor mechanical issues.

5 Yokomaha Geolandar A/T Tires, powder-coated black wheels.

Asking $3,450- ALL reasonable offers considered!

Text/Call Josh 269-5912872 or Erin 269-591-2913

Snowmobiles 918 1980 ARTIC CAT JAG Autos for Sale 945 SNOWMOBILE 2001 GRAND PRIX Great condition, $500.

KLIMEK ENTERPRISES

Electrical Contracting, No Job Too Big or Small. Free Quotes.

Affordable Pricing, Licensed & (269)782-3139 Insured. (269)684-6290 or Auto. Service(269)470-4097.

Repair

927

MICHIANA MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION

SE 4 door, runs good, new tires, reliable, for sale or partial trade etc. $2,250 (574)350-5120 or (269)357-5173

2006 FORD FOCUS

All your Masonry needs! Insured & Bonded. Senior discounts .

269-362-1566

$19.99 OIL CHANGE

Quality Clock Repair

Front Street Framery 801 E. Front St. Buchanan House Calls, Free Estimates (269)409-1031

Painting Service Clean Green Auto Recycling Purchasing all metals, cars & trucks Hours: M-F 8-3:30, Sat. 8-10

Music. Lakeshore High School Auditorium, Stevensville, MI. Tickets: $10 adults; $6 seniors/students. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by credit card: 269-422-2930.

4 p.m.

Misc. Services 747 Motorcycles & Trucks, Vans, 915 942 COMPLETE ATV’’s 4-Wh Drives CONCRETE TAKE A TEST 2000 MITSUBISHI From start to finish.

RIDE TODAY! Stamped, flat & dirt work.

Pole barn & other garages specialist. Roofing Siding, Framing and more. Over 25 years experience. Licensed. Insured (269)663-8091 Contact Michael N. Knepple (269)476-9777 DAVID W. GRISSOM, JR. Attorney At Law

Tree Service 725 THE CUTTING EDGE WANTED TO BUY 625 Cash paid for small & PRO TREE CARE

CASH

Household Merchandise BILL'S USED APPLIANCES

MK CONSTRUCTION

Wanted to Buy 672 Lawn Service 721 TV TOWERS WANTED GARDENING WITH Do you have a TV tower you INTEGRITY, LLC no longer use and want it

Cemetery Lots 617 5 CEMETERY PLOTS

Off The Water, Michiana

754

includes 5qts of oil, filter & grease. Call to schedule (269)684-5015

Wallace Auto Repair & 24hr Towing llc Best rates in town 67218 Cassopoils Rd Cassopolis, MI Call 269-699-5374

2010 HYUNDAI ELANTRA J.M. HUNT ENTERPRISES, LLC Painting & Drywall. Insured.

Free Estimates.

Family Owned & Operated for Over 50 years. 269-683-4442.

4 Door Sedan Very nice 46K Miles No credit checks 0% Interest Call Scarlett's 269-461-4197

85,200 miles, $5,250 Rebuilt title with warranty 2006 Ford Escape $5,999 Keenes Auto Body 269-782-3969

2008 EDGE LTD

70,000K, 30K extended bumper to bumper warranty, 20+ mpg, excellent condition, FWD, loaded with all popular options including 6 CD changer 9 speakers, SiriusXM paid to April 2014.

Great deal at $16,900. Call to see 269-697-0120

Off The Water, Michiana

Nov. 27 Learn to ice skate at the University of Notre Dame’s Compton Family Ice Arena. Both children and adults can sign up for lessons by calling (574) 6318760. Skating lessons are Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thanksgiving Eve Party.

10 p.m. DJs Matty J and Ben Flowers. Free pizza at 11 p.m., Santa at midnight. Players Bar & Grille 221 Main St. St. Joseph, Mich.

Nov. 28 Thanksgiving Dinner. Five O’Clock Sports Bar and Restaurant. Red Arrow Hwy at Exit 23, Stevensville, Mich. Adults: $19.99; Kids 6 and under: $8.99. 12-4 p.m. Bar will be open late.

The John & Dede Howard Ice Arena will be opening for the season. 2414 Willa Dr., St. Joseph, Mich. 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.sjcity.org Nov. 29 “Magic Up Close.” Four Magicians will rotate around to 4 different audience groups at The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks, 8 p.m.

Tickets are $30. For info & tickets, call (269) 7563879, or visit the website at www.acorntheater.com.

i

Small Business Saturday in downtown Niles, MI. Local stores will be offering special deals. See our Focus section in this week’s issue of Off the Water.

WHAT'S HAPPENING? Dec. 5

Volunteer opportunities for helping to clean up Sarett Nature Center, 2300 Benton Center Rd., Benton Harbor, Mich. Cleaning supplies & lunch provided.

Call (269) 927-4832 if you Small Business Saturday in plan to attend. downtown Dowagiac, MI. Dec. 6 Local stores will be offering special deals. See our Focus section in this week’s issue of Off the Water.

Comedians Al Jackson and Brian Aldridge. Sky Lounge, Mishawaka, IN. Doors open The Nobodies of Comedy at 7; show is from 8 to 9:30 at Lake Michigan College’s p.m. For more information, Mendel Center. 2 hours of call Jayson Smith (574) stand-up comedy from the 257-0759 or visit www.skybest unknown comedians michiana.com from across the country, including Matt Bergman, Tony Deyo, Chris Doucette, “Around the World for the and Andy Pitz. Tickets are Holidays.” Musicians for $25, $28, and $32. For Michiana (MFM) chamber tickets, call (269) 927-1221 music series at The Music or visit www.lmcmain- Village’s First Fridays stage.org. 8 p.m.

(Monthly Open House).

Jamming, swing dancing and holiday treats. 108 N The Niles Service League Main St, South Bend, IN. is hosting a holiday bazaar 5:30-9 p.m. Call (574) 245at the Bell Building, 305 7664 for more information.

Sycamore Street in Niles from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Vendors will be available “Date Night in the Clay to sell their products and Studio” takes place at the Santa will be available for South Bend Museum of Art, pictures. Contact Becky 120 St. Joseph Street, South Kessler at (269) 591-1246, Bend from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. beckyk@sbfu.org or beck- Call (574) 235-9102 for ykessler20@gmail.com for more information and to more information. register for the workshop.

33rd Annual Decatur Holiday Arts & Craft Show, Decatur Senior High School, 110 Cedar St, Decatur, Mich. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Buchanan Art Center will hold a White Saturday Celebration, Featuring Gift Shop Sale, Raku WalkThrough, and Santa Silent Auction. From 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Comedians Frank Roche and Erik Monical. Sky Lounge, Mishawaka, Ind. Doors open at 7; show is from 8 to 9:30 p.m. For more information, call Jayson Smith (574) 2570759 or visit www.skymichiana.com.

Bonnie Koloc will play Nov. 30 The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks, 8 p.m. Tickets are Rust Belt Songwriters II. $25. For info & tickets, call Box Factory for the Arts. (269) 756-3879, or visit the Tickets are $10, $8 stu- website at www.acornthedents & seniors, children ater.com.

12 and under are free. 7:30 Dec. 4 pm For more information, visit www.boxfactoryforthearts.org/calendar/#rustbelt Learn to ice skate at the University of Notre Dame’s Live reindeer and photo Compton Family Ice ops at The Silver Beach Arena. Both children aNd Carousel. 333 Broad St., adults can sign up for lesSt. Joseph, Mich. 12-4 p.m. sons by calling (574) 631Visit www.silverbeachcar- 8760. Skating lessons are ousel.com for more infor- Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. mation.

Week of November 22-28, 2013 • Page 11

dies, cakes and breads. 9 5:45 p.m. for two round trip a.m. to 1 p.m. tickets on Amtrak from Niles to Chicago. Tickets are free; must be present to Greens Workshop. Sarett win. From 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Nature Center, 2300 Benton Dec. 7-22 Center Rd., Benton Harbor, Mich. Bring your own clippers & craft supplies. Cost is $10. Call (269) 927-4832 St. Joseph: Santa will be at to register. 10 a.m. his house at the corner of State and Pleasant Streets.

Thursdays and Fridays 4-6 15th Annual Reindog p.m., Saturdays, 12-5, Parade Festival, State Sundays 12-3 pm. For Street, St. Joseph, MI. 4 more information, call p.m. For more information, (269) 985-1111 or visit call (269) 985-1111 or visit www.stjoetoday.com www.stjoetoday.com Dec. 11 Brentwood at Elkhart Huge Holiday Bazaar. Hot dogs, drinks, and special treats available. Admission is free. Donation of non-perishable food item requested. 3600 E. Bristol St., Elkhart. (574) 262-1626. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

8760. Skating lessons are Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 19

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Members of the Cass County Pioneer Log Cabin Museum meet at 6 p.m. at the Cass County Library on M-62 in Cassopolis.

Dec. 22

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis at Lake Michigan College Mendel Center at 4 p.m.

Tickets are $52, $60, $72.

Mendel Center Box Office, Learn to ice skate at the (269) 927-1221 or www.

University of Notre Dame’s lmcmainstage.org Compton Family Ice Arena. Both children and Dec. 26-30; Jan 2-4 adults can sign up for lessons by calling (574) 6318760. Skating lessons are Journey of the Raindrop.

Wednesdays from 5:30 to Curious Kids Museum.

7:30 p.m.

415 Lake Blvd. St. Joseph, Mich. 12-4 p.m. Visit Dec. 13 www.curiouskidsmuseum. org for more information.

Handmade Holiday Show, The Old Bag Factory, 1100 N. Chicago Ave., Goshen, “Date Night in the Clay Ind. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Studio” takes place at the South Bend Museum of Art, 120 St. Joseph Street, First United Methodist South Bend from 6:30 to 12th Annual Craft Show, 9:30 p.m. Call (574) 235132 S Oak St. Buchanan, 9102 for more information Mich. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and to register for the workshop.

Giggle & Mingle with Santa Dec. 15 Claus takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Round Barn Winery estate at 10983 Hills Open house at Sarett Universal Xpression at Road in Baroda.

Nature Center to celebrate Czar’s 505, 505 Pleasant Director Chuck Nelson’s St., St. Joseph. Doors 8 retirement. Email happy p.m. Showtime 10 p.m.

Annual Christmas program memories or humorous sto(Every first Friday of the at the oldest church in ries to dianneb@sarrett. month, Czar’s 505 presents southwestern Michigan. We com. 2300 Benton Center Reggae bands for “Jamaica will have Christmas music Rd., Benton Harbor, Mich.

Me Crazy.) (269) 271-5219 by the Edwardsburg High Bring your own clippers & School Choirs, bell ringers, craft supplies. Call (269) the Christmas Story and 927-4832 if you plan to Dowagiac Christmas Santa for the kids. 7 p.m. attend. 2-5 p.m.

Parade, Beckwith Park, Smith’s Chapel, 29858 Dowagiac.

100-unit Redfield Road, Niles.

Dec. 17 Candle-light Christmas Parade. 7 p.m. (Street vendors will be selling hot Brian Randall Band at A local Relay for Life team chocolate and treats at Czar’s 505, 505 Pleasant is hosting a “You Can Paint starting at 6 p.m.)

St., St. Joseph. Doors 8 Too” fundraiser on p.m. Showtime 10 p.m. December 17th, 2013. It (Every first Friday of the will be from 6:30 p.m. to St. Joseph Today Light Up month, Czar’s 505 presents 9:30 p.m. at the Dowagiac the Bluff, at 6:30 p.m. Reggae bands for “Jamaica Elks Club. Anyone is welTree-lighting, followed by Me Crazy.) (269) 271-5219 come to attend. Cost is $35 Live Mannequins on State per person. To attend this St., St. Joseph. For more event, you must sign up information, call (269) Four Flags Garden Club’s online at: www.u-canpaint2.

985-1111 or visit www.

22nd Annual Hometown net/prod-493.htm stjoetoday.com Christmas Celebration at Dec. 18 the Amtrak Depot, 600 Dec. 7 Dey Street (off North Fifth Street), Niles. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and Learn to ice skate at the Annual Holiday Cookie enjoy homemade cookies, University of Notre Dame’s Walk. Trinity Episcopal cider and candy. Compton Family Ice Church. 9 South 4th St. CounterPoints Show Choir Arena. Both children and Coffee by Brew Ha Ha and will perform. A special adults can sign up for leshomemade cookies, can- drawing will be held at sons by calling (574) 631-

Alcohol

Art

Business

Christmas N E

W S

Community

Compass

Crafts

Family

Food

Focus

Information

Music

Nature

New Year’s

Parting Shots

Religious

Theatre

Tourist

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Winter

Page 12 • Week of November 22-28, 2013

PARTING SHOTS

Photos by AMBROSIA NELDON Students at Brandywine Community Schools performed 'Seussical: The Musical' last weekend.

Submit Your Shots!

Send your photos to offthewater@leaderpub.com and they may be published in a future issue.

Off The Water, Michiana