Off The Water - December 11-17, 2014

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Holiday Comedy

Santas storm Paw Paw Annual 5K returns.......................... p.2

Week of December 11-17, 2014

LMC kicks off new series................ p.3

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 6, Number 50

More than houses

Gingerbread train makes stop at Four Winds

www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

GET OUT!

Submitted photo

Santas storm Paw Paw

P

By DOROTHY ENGELHARDT

AW PAW, Mich. — Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus… and here come a lot more Santas.

It’s time for the third annual Santa Run and Fun Walk in Paw Paw, Michigan, which has drawn more than 200 participants in each of its previous years.

The fun run/walk is hosted by the Paw Paw Area Rotary Club and takes place in the festive downtown area. Each participant is given a five-piece Santa suit to wear during the run/ walk. Medals are also presented to every Santa upon completion of the course.

“Everyone is encouraged to participate in this event. The fresh air and exercise are sure to help reduce the typical holiday stress,” said Janelle Randall, an event coordinator.

The event is scheduled to take place on at 9 a.m on Saturday, Dec. 13. The route is 5 kilo-

meters, or 3.1 miles, in length. Walkers have the option of a one-mile course. Registration is $30 for those 12 years and older. Those 11 years and younger may participate at no charge and receive a Santa hat to wear.

Strollers are welcome, and creative Santa suit embellishments are encouraged.

According to Randall, the funds raised are used, in part, to support causes such as literacy programs at the schools, honoring students at Michigan Avenue Academy with “Student of the Month” awards and scholarships.

“We also partnered with the Village of Paw Paw in the building of the Maple Lake Amphitheater,” Randall said.

Randall said the best part of the event explains exactly why people should come from all over to attend.

“The Christmas Spirit is everywhere. With over 200 Santas, everyone is in a great mood!”

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Off The Water, Michiana

Week of December 11-17, 2014 • Page 3

SPOTLIGHT

LMC Mendel Center kicks off new Hanson Living Room Series with holiday comedy extravaganza

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ENTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. — The Lake Michigan College Mendel Center is giving the gift of laugher this holiday season with the “Ha! Ha! Holidays Show — A Comedy Extravaganza” on Friday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. as part of its new Hanson Living Room Series.

The evening will feature local and regional improvisational comedy troupes and special guests — all spreading holiday cheer. Crawlspace Eviction has been delivering laughs, chortles and guffaws to Kalamazoo since 2003.

They will be joined by TORP, the improv troupe based in Benton Harbor/St. Joseph, for an evening of guaranteed laughs and libations.

Crawlspace Eviction is a group of improv performers with a sharp focus on creating interesting characters and relationships on stage, directly from audience suggestions. From the beginning, the team was determined to explore the comedy in human connection. Crawlspace Eviction has been performing since

2003, always pushing the boundaries of what a collection of talented performers can do when they don’t have a script to work from.

Over the years, Crawlspace Eviction has performed multiple times in the Toronto Improv Festival, Gilda’s Laugh Fest, and the Kalamazoo Improv Festival. In 2006 they made the award winning mockumentary style movie Comic Evangelists, which premiered at the prestigious AFI Fest in Hollywood. With the help of KRESA’s EFA program, Crawlspace Eviction created an original interactive improv form known as UP2U, incorporating multimedia elements with improvised storytelling.

Crawlspace Eviction performs regular shows in Kalamazoo at Farmers Alley Theatre.

TORP is in its fourth year of improvisational comedic revelry. The TORP troupe has been causing fits of laughter at various charity events and public performances throughout southwest Michigan, including mur-

der mystery events and comedy revues for the Morton House, the Lake Michigan College Hospitality and Fine Arts programs, One Hundred Women Strong and more.

Current TORP improvisers include Mike Nadolski, Andy Sawyer, Patricia Muellen and Tony Balbo — all of whom will be performing during the Ha! Ha! Holidays Show.

The Hanson Living Room Series is a new way for patrons to experience live music, comedy and entertainment in the intimate setting of the Hanson Theatre. The venue is designed for maximum viewing and listening pleasure, and provides audiences with the opportunity to connect more closely with the performers and the performances. Other performers

included in the 2014-2015 Hanson Living Room Series are Americana bands Wild Ponies on Friday, Jan. 23, and Lindsay Lou and the Flatbellys on Friday, Feb. 13.

Tickets for the “Ha! Ha! Holidays Show — A Comedy Extravaganza” are $15, and $10 for Mendel Center Mainstage series ticket holders, students, and seniors. They are available by calling the LMC Mendel Center Box Office at (269) 927-1221 or visiting www.lmcmainstage. org. For information about group rates, pre-show party options, and other special arrangements, contact Mike Nadolski at (269) 927-8109 or mnadolski@ lakemichigancollege.edu.

A cash bar will be open for all patrons one hour before show time and during intermission. Special Mendel Center drink cups

are available for purchase, which allow patrons to enjoy their beverages inside the theater.

The full line-up of LMC Mendel Center Mainstage entertainment can be found at www.lmcmainstage.org.

The Lake Michigan College Mendel Center is located just 40 minutes from Kalamazoo and South Bend on the Lake Michigan College Napier Avenue Campus in Benton Township, Michigan, one mile east of I-94 (Exit 30) and one mile west of the US 31 Bypass (exit 24).

The LMC Mendel Center Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m., and one hour before show time.

Tickets may be purchased in person, by phone at (269) 927-1221, or online at www.lmcmainstage.org.

All are welcome to worship with us.

Cass Fellowship Bible Church

Pastor Richard Doran (269) 274-5726 64016 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 (269) 445-2195 Sunday School: Sunday 9:30 am Church Service: Sunday 10:30 am and Wednesday 7 pm

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Page 4 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

Winter Fun at Sarett Nature Center

Dec. 13 - Celebrate the season with Santa at Sarett from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Visit Sarett Nature Center to create holiday nature crafts and take a photo with Santa. Author Cara Arver will also be on hand to sign her children’s book, “Manistee Melody.” Call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Dec. 30 - Sledding on Pear Hill Weather permitting, children (7 years and older) can sled on Pear Hill with Sarett Nature Center on Dec. 30 at 1 p.m. Cost is $1. Call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Jan. 2 - Celebrate Winter Children (6 years and older) can celebrate winter with Sarett Nature Center on Jan. 2 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The morning session ($3) will include learning about animals in winter, snow and winter survival. The afternoon session (additional $3) will be spent snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Children should dress appropriately and bring a lunch. Call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Off The Water, Michiana

Barn Swallow thanks community with holiday celebration

T

he Michiana Community is invited to spend a special presentation of “Christmas at Barn Swallow” on Saturday evening, Dec. 13th beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre located at 22334 U.S. 12 East of Edwardsburg, Michigan.

The evening will showcase the Edwardsburg High School Varsity Choir, several vocal presentations, instrumentals, special readings, and the ever-popular “sing-along” with the audience.

Refreshments will be available to close the evening’s holiday entertainment.

This holiday event is free. Organizers say it is the theatre family’s way of thanking the community for the support and encouragement given during the growing pains to build a beautiful home to “provide quality entertainment in a rural setting.”

However, donations are never refused.

For information, call Carol at (269) 445-2511.

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of December 11-17, 2014 • Page 5

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Martin’s Santa Snapshots event benefit local charities

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dwardsburg, Mich. — extended Snapshots with Santa event Stevensville will benefit the Humane Martin’s Super Markets is hold- Dec. 13 and 14 to benefit the Humane Society. ing its Snapshots with Santa Society of Southwestern Michigan.

From 11:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 13, event on Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, holiday dance performances from Dec. 14 at all stores, including the customers are invited to visit Santa in Miss Connie Cassidy’s School of Niles location on South 11th Street.

Stevensville and have their photos Dance will be offered for visitors.

Children can visit Santa and have taken with him. Participants will From 12:15 to 12:45, holiday stories his or her picture taken by one of receive a hard copy photo or have a will be read by Miss Mary Ann Ware, Martin’s “elves” from 11 a.m. to 3 photo emailed for a donation of $2 library associate for the Lincoln p.m. both days. per photo. All donations given in Township Public Library.

Photos will be developed and Both Saturday and Sunday, guests printed immediately on site for a $2 can do a snowflake craft sponsored cash contribution, which will be by 1st Source Bank or decorate donated to each store’s chosen cookies on the second floor of charity. the Side Door Deli for $1 from Donations at the Niles store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. will benefit the Niles Service After the Snapshots with League, a non-profit orgaSanta event is complete, nization that provides serpeople are encouraged to vices to children from the vote for their favorite Niles, Buchanan and Martin’s Santa on the Brandywine school disMartin’s Super Markets tricts.

Facebook page from Through fundraising, Dec. 15-21. the Niles Service League The store receiving Math Math Test Homework K-12 provides coats, hats,Help boots, the most votes will Enrichment Prep Help clothing, scholarships, receive an additional $500 camperships and more to donation toward their chochildren in our area. sen charity as well as a holiNowSuper enrolling Martin’s marketfor in winter. day party for employees.

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Page 6 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

Tofu: A vegan staple

T

here is a great little bodega around the corner from my building that, while a bit more expensive than how I normally shop, it offers essentials including some vegan products like my favorite locally made tofu, vegan cheeses,and even coconut ice cream. I usually stop in for an emergency can of cat food and a bag of spinach or something. Just a couple essentials to get me by until I have time to go to the store again.

The other night I popped in to buy some of the aforementioned items. As I was checking out, the Ukrainian woman who was ringing me up picked up the tofu and said, “What do you do with this? I want to try, but don’t know how to make...”

I live for opportunities like this to explain to people all the different ways you can prepare tofu. It’s easy for me to forget that this food stuff is completely foreign to a lot of people, and though some may be curious and interested in plant alternative, often people do not know what to do or where to begin.

I started by explaining to her that tofu doesn’t really taste like much on its own, that it’s all about how you prepare it, that it has a similar texture to ricotta cheese and thus can be used as a cheese substitute, egg substitute or when seasoned and prepared properly can be a great substitute for animal protein. I’ve been a plant eater so long that it was good for me to explain to her some basic ways to prepare this vegetarian staple.

So now, I pass these ideas along to you. Here are three simple ways to prepare tofu.

Tofu Scramble I started making this for brunch a long, long time ago. The first recipe for tofu scramble I made was out of the Post Punk Kitchen cookbook. It is a tried and true brunch classic and is a great substitute for scrambled eggs.

There are about a million variations out there on the internet, in cookbooks (including my own), on my website, and on Off the Water’s site.

These days, I don’t just eat this dish for breakfast, rather I make it for dinner, too. It’s a great way to use up all the random veggies you have in the fridge that are on the verge of going bad. You get all the vitamins and food groups you need a one skillet dish which is another huge plus!

Keep it simple and don’t worry too much about sticking to the recipe.

If you are new to plant based eating, turmeric is key for giving the scramble a yellow color, nutritional yeast adds richness, and black salt an eggy-sulfuric flavor. Keep lemons or limes around to brighten the dish up and whether lunch or dinner, it never hurts to top a dish with green onion and avocado.

Baked Tofu At least once a week I mix a slurry of Energ Egg Replacer and water, brush it on tofu, and then dip the tofu in either blackened spices or some other yummy coating and bake at 350 for about 20 minutes.

The blackened tofu is definitely my go to, but I’ve been trying to mix it up a bit lately. Having this flavored tofu around makes healthy meals in a hurry SO much easier.

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Yield: 2 dinner sized servings (about 12 ounces) 1 12 ounce package extra firm tofu, drained on a paper towel for about 20 minutes (or just press lightly if the tofu isn’t too moist).

2 teaspoons Energ Egg Replacer + 4 tablespoons water About 3-4 cups yellow cornmeal About 2 cups Franks Red Hot or other hot sauce About 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Sea salt to taste (I suggest 1/2-3/4 teaspoon) 1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Energ and water making a slurry.

Next, poor the cornmeal in a medium sized mixing bowl.

Kat Barry Kat's Hot Talk Just throw the tofu on a salad, or pair with a green vegetable and quinoa for a balanced meal. This week I used Victoria Gourmet 7 Seed crust (available on amazon.com), but last week’s Buffalo Tofu Bites were the real prize winner.

These scrumptious bites are actually a great appetizer for the holidays. Pair with a vegan ranch dipping sauce and you’re in business!

Kat Barry, a St. Joseph, Michigan native, is owner of Kat’s Hot Cakes vegan catering, and co author of “The New Chicago Diner Cookbook: Meat Free Recipes from America’s Veggie Diner.” She also develops recipes for eHow. com, where you can find over 30 of her vegan instructional cooking videos. She is also a certified yoga instructor. Kat currently resides in Chicago, and in her free time she enjoys practicing yoga, sampling local spirits, listening to live music, and getting outdoors. Follow @katshotcakes on twitter.

Kat can be reached via email at: kat@katshot-

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2. Slice the tofu into 1/2 inch cubes. Dredge in the Energ-water slurry the place in the cornmeal bowl. When you have about half the tofu in there, toss gently, but well with tongs. Make sure all the pieces are coated and then place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tofu then bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes. The pieces should be starting to golden and any loose cornmeal crumbs will be browned.

3. Meanwhile, rinse out the cornmeal bowl and just use the same one to whisk together the Franks, oil, and sea salt. Give it a taste and adjust proportions as needed.

4. Remove the tofu bites from the oven and once again toss half of the tofu at a time using the tongs. Place back on the baking sheet and bake another 4-6 minutes until they are a little crispy. The total baked time should be between 15-20 minutes.

5. Drizzle with Tahini Dressing or place on toothpicks and dip in tahini or vegan ranch as an appetizer.

Tofu Ricotta Tofu ricotta is an excellent substitute for cheese in pasta dishes, casseroles, on pizza, or even as a salad and filling snack all on its own. I often make a batch with no real intention of what to do with it, and use it however I see fit throughout the week. There is a great recipe for it in The New Chicago Diner Cookbook, but I will include a variation I make with kale instead of spinach here.

Tofu and kale salad Yield: about 4 cups salad 1 small yellow onion chopped 1 package extra firm tofu drained and crumbled 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 cup nutritional yeast 1 tsp. sea salt 1 tsp. dried oregano ¼ tsp. black pepper 2 Tbs. fresh parsley, chopped 2 Tbs. olive oil 1/2 Tbs. grapeseed oil 3 cups kale, washed, massaged and torn into 1/2-inch pieces Drain tofu on a paper towel for 30 to 60 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium low.

Add the oil, and, once it’s warm, add the onion. Saute the onion until nearly translucent, then add the garlic. Once this mixture cools, the tofu should be ready.

Toss everything in a large mixing bowl. Combine thoroughly with clean hands.

Enjoy as a snack, tossed in pasta or as a lasagna stuffing.

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Off The Water, Michiana

Week of December 11-17, 2014 • Page 7

FOCUS

Submitted photo

Giant gingerbread train at Four Winds New Buffalo casino offers lots of holiday fun this month

By AMBROSIA NELDON ambrosia.neldon @leaderpub.com

N

EW BUFFALO, Mich. — Visitors entering Four Winds New Buffalo will be immediately greeted by the smell of Christmas for the next few weeks.

A few steps later, they’ll find out why.

In the grand lobby at the main entrance of the casino stands a 23-foot-long, 4-footwide, 8-foot-tall train — and it’s completely edible.

The culinary master-

piece is made of more than 1,700 pounds of gingerbread, approximately 240 pounds of chocolate, 30 pounds of cooked sugar and 165 pounds of royal icing to decorate and put the gingerbread together.

Craig Lewkowitz, executive chef for Four Winds Casinos said he wanted to do a different display than in past years.

“Actually I was doing some shopping and when I walked into a store there was a large metal train set out that was being used as a decoration. I thought that

would make a neat addition,” Lewkowitz said. “I wanted to keep it fresh, so this year we did a train.”

Previous displays have included a large gingerbread village and a 20-foottall gingerbread house.

“This is a collaboration.

It took about 16 people about 240 man hours to build it,” Lewkowitz said, recounting the long hours of planning, mixing dough and icing, rolling out dough and assembling the large sculpture. The chef said people from all over the casino helped, including kitchen

staff and carpenters.

Inside the train are two compartments — a naughty compartment filled with coal and a nice compartment filled with gifts. With the exception of the coal and the gifts, the entire sculpture is edible.

“It’s pretty traditional. I think there’s a lot of conventional hotels and casinos that put a display up,” Lewkowitz said. “People really like to see it, and they especially like the aroma. People say it really evokes the holiday.”

The display was installed

on Dec. 1 and will remain in the grand lobby until Dec. 26.

Meanwhile, guests can visit Four Winds New Buffalo for a number of other holiday events, including a free concert at the Hard Rock Café Four Winds and a holiday buffet.

On Friday Dec. 12, country music artist Clare Dunn will perform a free concert at the Hard Rock Café Four Winds beginning at 9 p.m.

Dunn is known for hit singles such as “Get Out” and “Cowboy Side of You” and has opened for country

music stars Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, Colt Ford, Parmalee, Hank Jr. and Jamey Johnson.

More information about the artist is available at http://claredunn.com.

Guests are also invited to the buffet at Four Winds New Buffalo on Christmas Day for an all-day prime rib and shrimp buffet prepared

by Lewkowitz and his kitchen staff. The buffet is available from noon to 9 p.m. and is $28 for adults, $19 for children under 12 and free for children 3 and under.

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Page 8 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

CUISINE SCENE

Celebrate wine for a good cause T

here is never a better time for a nice bottle of wine than around Christmas and New Year’s.

Why not try something different and make your holiday party festive for your friends and helpful to a community cause?

Every community across our nation has a good a good cause or organization that can use your support.

Recently a group of friends held a wine tasting, encouraged a set donation, and then made contributions to two different good causes.

The group supported a local health clinic and a health care initiative in Oregon providing coverage for migrant vineyard workers.

Here is how it worked: The three leaders decided to pour Oregon wines since part of the proceeds would go to an Oregon-based charity. The wine lineup included two Pinot Gris wines under $20 and four Pinot Noirs. The Pinot Noir wines ranged from $22 to Submitted photo $55 a bottle.

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Now the group has some real wine geeks and they provided the wine knowledge during each pour. We had a great lineup of small bites including flat breads, pâté and the usual assortment of cheese and crackers.

The organizers used social media friends’ lists and personal connections to invite people to the wine tasting/philanthropy event.

We had a spokesman for the local health clinic in our group. He gave a fiveminute presentation on what the local clinic was all about and then it was back to the wine.

Essentially, it was a wine event for a good cause.

The organizers bore the cost of the wine and food, though we may look at a way of writing that into the cost in future events. What you can suggest as a donation is different in every community but our group gave $50 per person – all of which went to the two charities. We ended up with a nice-sized group for the

evening and raised more than $700 to split between two charities.

You don’t need some “real wine geeks” to host a party either. Just generate some conversation about the wine. What did it smell like? What flavors do you taste? What do you like or dislike about the wine?

What food would pair with the wine? Take a few moments and do an internet search on each wine you’re going to pour and you’ll find plenty of talking points.

And pick any wines you like at any price point but be sure to try something new and something different.

Our group is already planning ahead for February.

The next event is shaping up to be big red winter wines and supporting local summer youth sports.

In seven years of wine writing the one thing I’ve learned over and over is people do want to know about wine and actually talk about wine. There is no better way to do it than in a

COLUMNIST

Howard Hewitt Grape Sense

festive social setting.

Great wine always leads to great conversation. When the combination can benefit a good cause, everyone comes out a winner.

Cheers!

Howard W. Hewitt, Crawfordsville, Indiana, writes about wine every other week for more than 20 Midwestern newspaper.

Reach him at: hewitthoward@gmail.com

Wine around the world

B

ENTON HARBOR, Mich. — Lambrecht’s liquours of St. Joseph, in partnership with Ray’s on the Green, presents a showcase of wine and food from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11 at the Berrien Hills Golf Club, 690 Napier Ave., Benton Harbor.

The event will feature more than 75 boutique wines from around the world in all styles. All wines served will be available to purchase, at special pricing, thru Lambrecht’s. Ray’s on the Green will provide a buffet, which is included along with unlimited sampling of wines with ticket purchase.

To support community needs during the holiday season, a portion of proceeds will benefit the Safe Shelter for Domestic Violence. Organizers are committed to the national “NO MORE” campaign to raise awareness of the ongoing severity of violence and abuse.

Tickets are $35 by advance purchase and $40 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at Lambrecht’s- 2926 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, or at Berrien Hills Golf Club — 690 Napier Ave., Benton Harbor.

For more information, please phone Lambrecht’s; 269-983-5353 or lambrechtsliquors.com

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3 bed, 2 bath homes ready to be moved into. Lease options starting at $599 per month (includes lot rent, insurance, water, trash) Call (269)423-7024 or visit www.phelpscommunity.com to view pictures

STUNNING HOME! GREAT PRICE!

Stop in for a tour!

M-F 8am-5pm

For Rent 418 LOOKING FOR

Housemates to share house in Niles quiet country setting, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 3,000 sq. ft., 2 levels, 2 acres, $500 per month, rent possibly negotiable.

(269)240-8800

Elderly Care 307 KARE SERVICES

Compassionate Home Care Services (269)684-1984 (574)292-2900 email:KKaidanRay@aol.com www.KAREService.com

SHARP 2 BEDROOM

Niles ranch home with 1 car garage, fenced back yard, quiet location, $625/month (269)695-5839

Collectibles 602 NILES FLEA MARKET

111 E. Main St, Niles MI New vendors bringing many new items weekly. Open House Nov 28th-30th! Come Christmas shopping with us!

(269) 262-4333

Auctions

603

NILES COMMUNITY AUCTION HOUSE Antiques, collectables, furniture, & tons of new items!

802 Fort St, Niles MI (269) 635-0271

Manufactured 502 Homes GREAT HOME! GREAT PRICE! Good Things to 500 636 Eat Sweet Texas Oranges

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• 24 HR. MAINTENANCE

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS!

PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANTS and CNAs

P.D.K.

accepting applications for wait list 1 & 2 bedrooms, LEADER Seniors (62 years or older), PUBLICATIONS Disabled (regardless of age), Rent based on income (if ROUTES qualified), Barrier free unit AVAILABLE available. Contact Toni 269See our ad under business 445-3333 or Susan 616opportunities 942-1792.

Equal Housing Opportunity TDD 800-649-3777 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer

needed immediately for work in your area Call A+ Nursing Inc 800-531-0272

StJosephMI.ExpressPros.com

309

STONE LAKE APARTMENTS

HOME HEALTH AIDES

20 Part-Time Positions Flexible Schedule – 1st or 2nd Shift $9.00 per hour Buchanan, MI (269) 408-1980

Instruction & Training

Week of December 11-17, 2014 • Page 9

1420 Oak St., Niles 3 Bed/2 Bath, 1690 sqft Lots of new updates Carolee Dalrymple Pier Realty 616-634-2358

3 bd/2 bth, A/C, garden tub, Thermopane Windows, New flooring throughout Call 269-695-3119 Riverside Estates

Antiques 600 FOR SALE

Antique Ash Dresser, rose marble top, $350. Wicker Settee with chair $120. Corn Silage Chopper $190.

Alladin Brass Lamp $120 (574)273-6954

5 lbs/$3.50 18lb/$12.00 #1 HONEY CRISP .99/lb $20/half bushel •#2 Honey Crisp $10/half bushel •Other Varieties $7/half bushel & up •Red, White & Russet Potatoes 10lbs. $1, $20cents/lb., •Sweet Potatoes $12/half bushel .49/lb.

•Jumbo Walla Walla Sweet Onions .35/lb., $16.50/50lbs.

•Texas Ruby red grapefruit 5 lbs/$2.50 18 lbs/$9.00

•Honey 1 1/2 lbs. $7

HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 10-5, Sun. noon-5 Hunky Fruit Stand 2054 M140 Benton Harbor, MI 49022 (269) 944-3025

Household Merchandise

642

BILL'S USED APPLIANCES HOLIDAY SPECIAL!!

Starting Black Friday, thru the month of December, 10-20% off!

Hours: Mon-Fri. 10a-5pm Sat. 10a-3pm Closed Sunday 2324 S. 11th St. Niles (269) 340-5952

FOR SALE

•Used and Reconditioned Appliances •Washers & Dryers •Ranges •Air Conditioners •Refrigerators 841 Carberry Rd. Niles (269)687-8639

10 HALF CLASS

Page 10 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

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Dec. 11

Lambrecht’s Liquours of St. Joseph, in partnership with Ray’s on the Green, presents a showcase of wine and food Thursday, Dec. 11th at the Berrien Hills Golf Club, 690 Napier Ave., Benton Harbor, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 by advance purchase and $40 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at Lambrecht’s, 2926 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, or at Berrien Hills Golf Club- 690 Napier Ave., Benton Harbor. For more information, phone Lambrecht’s at (269) 983-5353 or lambrechtsliquors.com

in the Howard Performing Arts Center at Andrews University, 4160 East Campus Circle Dr., in Berrien Springs. A donation of $1 per person is requested. The proceeds will be used for the general support of the choir program. For information, call at 4281408, Ext. 3099.

The Lakeshore Middle School Choirs, directed

by Mrs. Carole Conrad, will hold their Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11 in the Howard Performing Arts Center at Andrews University, 4160 East Campus Circle Dr., in Berrien Springs. A donation of $1 per person is requested.

The proceeds will be used for the general support of the choir program.

For information, call at 428-1408, Ext. 3099.

The Lakeshore Middle School Choirs, directed

by Mrs. Carole Conrad, will hold their Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 11 The

Off The Water, Michiana

WHAT'S HAPPENING? Youth Orchestra (LMYO) showcases Southwest Michigan’s talented young musicians. LMYO will perform on Friday, Dec. 12, 2014 at 7 p.m. at the South Haven High School Auditorium. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens.

to each performance. p.m. at the Lake MichiFor more information, call gan College Mendel (269) 428-1402.

Mainstage.

Dec. 13

Barn Swallow closes out its season with “Christmas at Barn Swallow,” showcasing choirs and Dec. 12-14 music ensembles from local schools, churches and performance Lakeshore High School groups. will present Irvin Berlin’s “White Christmas the Musical” at 7 p.m. on Dec. 12 and 13, and at 2 Celebrate the season p.m. on Dec. 14. All per- with The Southwest formances will be in the Michigan Symphony OrLakeshore Community chestra guest conducAuditorium, 5771 Cleve- tor, Harvey Felder and land Ave., in Stevensville, Soprano, Denise Ritter Michigan. Tickets are $12 in this sparkling holiday for adults and $10 for se- celebration. Organizers niors, veterans and stu- say this timeless music dents (grades Kdg-12). is guaranteed to warm All seats are general ad- hearts of all who come. mission. Tickets are cur- Come hear seasonal Dec. 12 rently on sale in the high favorites such as White school office, and will Christmas and Let It also be available at the Snow performed on SatLake Michigan box office one hour prior urday, Dec. 13, at 7:30

The Elkhart County Parks will offer a Cross Country Ski Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. at the Baldwin Schoolhouse in Bonneyville Mill County Park. More information about the Elkhart County Parks, their programming and services can be found online at elkhartcountyparks.org.

Celebrate the season with Santa at Sarett on Dec. 13 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Visit Sarett Nature Center to create holiday nature crafts and take a photo with Santa. Author Cara Arver will also be on hand to sign her children’s book, Manistee Melody. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Everyone is invited to attend Fairplain Presbyterian Church’s annual Cantata, entitled Let Heaven and Nature Sing, Saturday, Dec. 13, at 4 p.m. Refreshments will be served immediately following the Cantata in the Courtyard room. Sunday morning worship services at Fairplain Presbyterian Church begin at 9:30 a.m. followed by refreshments. On Sunday, Dec. 14, beginning at 11 a.m. there will be an Advent-themed Intergenerational Sunday School for all ages.

Fairplain Presbyterian Church is located at 210 W. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor. For further information, contact the church office at (269) 925-0041 or visit their web site at fairplainpc.com

CLASSIFIEDs Tools & Machin663 ery BULK BOX DUMPER

2HP, 1725 RPM-115/230 volts general electric motor w/Vickervane hydraulic pump, willing to demonstrate.

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Wanted to Buy

672

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adamsjunkers.com Adam Pays the most!!

FREE PICKUP 7 days a week Title or not!!

WE WILL BUY

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

Home Improvement

700

FRYMAN'S SEAMLESS GUTTERS & SIDING FRYMAN’S ROOFING

Your home exterior experts.

Quality guaranteed! Locally Owned for 50 years. (269)7825008 (David & Terri Fryman)

Heating

703 Concrete Service 739 DEPROW CONCRETE

OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE

Robert Flory, Sr. Phone: (269)423-8458 Cell: (269)655-5291

Tree Service 725 PAYNE'S TREE SERVICE

Tree Trimming & Removal.

Stump Grinding & Firewood.

Bobcat & Concrete Work.

Over 30 years of experience, Insured. (269)663-8091 tile work, kitchens, bath- THE CUTTING EDGE rooms, decks & porches, PRO TREE CARE windows & doors, window Complete Tree Service wrapping, siding, fascia & SAME DAY ESTIMATES soffit. Call Randy (269)782Insured, Competitive Rates.

3139 (269)208-9838 269-687-4972

HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING

MK CONSTRUCTION

Pole barn & other garages specialist. Roofing Siding, Framing and more. Over 40 ALWAYS PAYING years experience. Licensed. top dollar for junk cars, Contact Michael N. Knepple trucks & farm equipment. (269)476-9777 Also buying repairables. Paul buys junk cars & trucks. MR. MAINTENANCE FREE ESTIMATES (574)993-1131 Roofing, Siding & Windows, BUYING Light Hauling & Spring repairable scrap and un- Clean-Ups, No Inside or wanted vehicles, top dollar Outside job too big or small. paid. Call or text for a free Low affordable rates. quote today. Free towing. (269)591-1403 Kevin (817)437-0450

Antenna Service

737

(574) 300-6556

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Cash paid for medium size refrigerators, working or repairable. Also gas & electric ranges.

Call (269)687-8639

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Repairs, Remodel, Windows, Siding, Additions, Painting, Plumbing & More. Senior Discounts. Free Estimates (269)635-1527

WHY PAY TO WATCH TV?

754 Autos for Sale

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Concrete, bricks, blocks & stonework. Any type of tear out & replace. Basement repairs, landscaping, bobcat J.M. HUNT work. No job too small. 35 10 Kia Rio, 4 door $9,875 ENTERPRISES, LLC years experience. Concrete 11 Ford Fusion $13,670 $2.20 a sq. foot. Insured. Painting & Drywall. Insured.

12 Jeep Patriot $14,931 Free Estimates.

Family 12 Dodge Ram SLT $28,697 Jerry (269) 352-4010 Owned & Operated for Over Call (574) 264-1174 today!

Recycling Service 743 50 years. 269-683-4442.

2006 Dodge Dakota Quad PAINTING Cab (Red) CA$H 4 JUNKERS Int. & Ext., Drywall & Wall Engine: V8, 4.7 Liter Repair & Power washing. City 14/Hwy 19/Comb 16 Insured. Call Glen Hoese at MPG (269)684-4055 116k miles Comfortably Seats 5 people Trucks, Vans, $7,500.00 942 Call Scarlett Auto Sales 4-Wh Drives (269) 461-4197 1993 FORD F250 2010 Hyundai Elantra GLS Turn that Junker in your yard Ext. cab, Diesel, 4x4, 8 ft.

46k grey in Color box with contractors cap, to cash in your hand Guaranteed 30 MPG/hwy 198,000 miles, everything 801 Carberry Rd, Niles Front Wheel Drive 4 Door works, $4,500 OBO. Also red 269-687-5865 Sedan fiberglass Tonneau cover, No Credit Checks Snow Removal 745 fits 2007-2013 GMC-Chevy No Interest 2500 long box, $400 OBO. SNOW PLOWING Low down Payment Low monthly payments!!

Residential & Com- (269)782-3139 FOR SALE Free 6 month Warranty! mercial. Free Estimates.

2 1/2 ton job rated 1952 Call Scarlett Auto for more Reasonable Rates. Call Dodge Stake truck, 14 ft. information!

Larry at C & C Concrete steel bed with wooden (269)461-4197 (269)228-1163 headache rack & matching side boards with tailgate, Misc. Services 747 has single cylinder hydraulic dump, 5 speed transKLIMEK mission, model B-3KA-128 ENTERPRISES Electrical Contracting, No Job GVW, 18,000 plus 2 speed Too Big or Small. Free Quotes. rear end (269)471-7177

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Quality Clock Repair

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Painting Service

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

Dec. 18 The Michiana Community is invited to spend a special presentation of “Christmas at Barn Swallow” on Saturday evening, Dec. 13th beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre located at 22334 U.S. 12 East of Edwardsburg, Michigan.

Dec. 13-14

i

Everyone is invited to come meet two, live reindeer on Friday, Nov. 28, noon to 5 p.m., and Thursday, Dec. 18, 4 to 8:30 p.m. at the Silver Beach Carousel. Entry is $1 per person (children 2 and under free) into Santa’s Christmas Corral in the Shadowland Ballroom where you can pet these friendly, gentle animals of North Pole fame.

Have a professional keepsake photo taken with your family for just $3.

The Twin City Players (TCP) will host auditions for its March production of the 2014-2015 season next month. Auditions for The Dixie Swim Club, book by Jessie Jones, Dec. 19 Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, directed by Larry Nielsen, will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, The Lake Michigan Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. on College Mendel CenSunday, Dec. 14. ter is giving the gift of laugher this holiday Dec. 14 season with the Ha! Ha! Holidays Show – A Comedy Extravaganza Curious Kids’ Museum, on Friday, Dec. 19, at 7 the Box Factory for the p.m. as part of its new Arts and personal chef Hanson Living Room Tara Newman invite ev- Series. Tickets for the eryone to kick off the holi- Ha! Ha! Holidays Show day season with Christ- – A Comedy Extravamas Cookie Decorating ganza are $15, and Event from 1 to 3 p.m. at $10 for Mendel Center the Box Factory for the Mainstage series ticket Arts. This event is a fun- holders, students, and filled afternoon with cook- seniors. They are availie decorating and coloring able by calling the LMC contests among a magi- Mendel Center Box Ofcal village of trains and fice at (269) 927-1221 gingerbread houses on or visiting www.lmcdisplay. Each child will re- mainstage.org. For inceive a half dozen cook- formation about group ies to decorate and take rates, pre-show party home. What a great way options, and other speto spend an afternoon! cial arrangements, conCost is $25 per child. tact Mike Nadolski at Contact the Curious Kids’ (269) 927-8109 or mnMuseum at (269) 9833- adolski@lakemichigancollege.edu.

2543 to sign up.

Week of December 11-17, 2014 • Page 11

WHAT'S HAPPENING? Dec. 19-21

raised a total of $15,000 in donations.

Jan. 10

For the first time ever, the Twin City Players (TCP) will bring one of its season’s productions to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Mainstage. Performances of the holiday musical The Christmas Schooner, book by John Reeger, music and lyrics

by Julie Shannon and directed by Paul Mow, will be on Friday, Dec. 19 and Saturday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

Dec. 30

The artistry and timehonored tradition of epic storytelling through dance will delight audiences at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Mainstage when the Russian National Ballet Theatre presents Don Quixote on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at 4 p.m. Tickets for the Russian National Ballet Theatre presents Don Quixote start at $34 and are available by calling the LMC Mendel Center Box Office at (269) 9271221 or visiting www. lmcmainstage.org. Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more.

For information about group rates, pre-show party options, and other special arrangements, contact Mike Nadolski at (269) 927-8109 or mnadolski@lakemichigancollege.edu.

Dec. 20

New Troy’s popular Indoor Flea Market is back for a new season! The flea market will take place Saturday, December 20 and Saturday December 27, and continue on the last two Saturdays of every month through March. It is open from 9 am to 3 pm. Admission is free.

Dec. 26

Join Funk Harmony Park and Moveable Types for a #DAXmas or “Day After Christmas” benefit concert on Dec. 26, at 8:00 p.m. at The Brick in downtown South Bend to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Joseph County.

Funk Harmony Park will also be playing a free acoustic show on Dec. 17 at Bare Hands Brewery in Granger to benefit the local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. In previous years they have

Weather permitting, kids (7 years and older) can sled on Pear Hill with Sarett Nature Center on December 30 at 1 p.m.

Cost is $1. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Jan. 2

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Kids (6 years and older) can Celebrate Winter with Sarett Nature Center on Jan. 2 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The morning session ($3) will include learning about animals in winter, snow and winter survival. The afternoon session (additional $3) will be spent snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Children should dress appropriately and bring a lunch. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Jan. 3

Artist and Pokagon Potawatomi tribal citizen Jason Wesaw will conduct a workshop outlining his unique process of producing work with clay directly harvested from the Great Lakes. Learn about historical native pottery while creating your own one-of-a-kind artworks alongside the artist. Participants will use clay harvested in and around South Bend.

Early bird tuition is $80 before Dec. 10. After Dec. 10, tuition is $100.

The Elkhart County Parks and the South Bend-Elkhart Audubon Society are calling upon volunteers for the annual Elkhart County Christmas Bird Count, which will be held on Saturday, Jan. 3. Bird watchers can pre-register by contacting the Elkhart County Parks at (574) 535-6458 or e-mail rdecaire@ elkhartcounty.com to register their name, adJan. 30-31 dress, and phone number and e-mail to receive further directions for the Thrill on the Hill will start bird count.

LEGEND

Alcohol

Art

Business

Movies

Community

Theatre

Crafts

Music

Religious

Food

i

Information

Tourist

Nature

Holiday

Parting Shots

Family

$ $

Off The Water, Michiana

Shopping

Sports

Camping

Summer

on Friday the 30th with a 5-9 p.m. run and then an adult “midnight run” from 11 p.m. to 1 p.m. Then all day Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Unlimited runs for $3! We provide your sledding tube! Contact City Hall at 269-695-3844 for more details. Or click the picture above for the Thrill’s Facebook page.

Follow us on Twitter @NilesStar @DowagiacNews @OffTheWater

@EdwardsburgNews @CassopolisNews

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Page 12 • Week of December 11-17, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

PARTING SHOTS

Dowagiac rang in the holiday season with its annual candle-light Christmas Parade on Friday.

Photos By TED YOAKUM