Off The Water - December 18-24, 2014

FREE

Keeping the beat

A New Year

BAC opening new exhibits............. p.2

Week of December 18-24, 2014

Holiday lights set to music............. p.7

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 6, Number 51

Beat cabin fever Fernwood offers annual bird count, much more

www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

ON DISPLAY

Buchanan Art Center kicks off 2015 with new exhibits

B

UCHANAN — A public reception will be hosted from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11 at the Buchanan Art Center.

The event will feature four new exhibits by local artists: “Birds, Bees, Dogs and Trees;” mixed media collage by Catherine Chmiel-Goetzinger in the Roti Roti Gallery; “Oil On Canvas, 2014,” paintings by Dorothy

Tristan in the Showplace Gallery, “Café con Leche, Por Favor,” watercolors by Tami McClellan in the Hess Library, and “Surface Reactions,” pottery selections by Lynda Price, Helen Kloswick, Janis Schibley and Ann Flannery in the BAC Showcases.

These exhibits open on Wednesday, Jan. 7, and run through Saturday, Feb. 21.

Presented in the BAC Showcases, Surface Reactions features the work of the JHL Eclectic Pottery group; led by retired art teacher and longtime BAC member Lynda Price.

The group, consists of Price, Helen Kloswick, Janis Schibley and Ann Flannery. Formed in 2011

by Price who invited this group of ladies to work with her in her studio, they are longtime friends from a

Bible study group and from Price’s work with horses.

Always the teacher, Price motivates and educates.

Each member brings her life experiences and talents to their art in a unique way.

They all work in clay but their surfaces are as varied as their forms and their methods of firing. They explore the soft crackle of raku glazes and underglazes, terra sigillata coatings and the obvara method of

coating and firing. From hand built sculpture to wheel thrown vessels, their work pushes the boundaries of low-fire technology.

The Buchanan Art Center is located at 117 West Front Street in Buchanan, Michigan. The Center features three galleries and showcases with rotating exhibits of regional artists’ works, a program of educational art classes

for all ages, and a gift shop offering works of local artists. Current hours are Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed Sundays. More information, including a schedule of classes, can be obtained at the Center by calling 269-697-4005, or by visiting their website at: www.buchananartcenter.org.

Tami McClellan Tami McClellan (Café con Leche, Por Favor) is a Buchanan native who returned seven years ago to once again call this beautiful town home.

She is currently finishing her PhD in Counseling Psychology at Andrews University, where she has developed a deep love and appreciation for people, relationships, culture and diversity.

McClellan believes strongly in living authentically, being active in her community and loving people unconditionally. She pursued art in her undergraduate career and completed two years of art school where she excelled at watercolor, color pencil and pastel work.

Tami is known for her strong use of bold color and heavy use of medium. She is inspired by simple moments in life, and aims to uplift others with her work. This is her second art exhibit at the Buchanan Art Center; a place she says she loves and appreciates tremendously.

Catherine Chmiel-Goetzinger Catherine Chmiel-Goetzinger (Birds, Bees, Dogs and Trees) is a mixed-media collage artist who uses the same basic approach whether creating with paper and or fabric.

Upcycling is not her main intent, but she does enjoy creating something beautiful from little cast-off pieces.

Chmiel-Goetzinger’s formal training was from Herron School of Art, Indianapolis, Indiana.

While there she received a BFA in painting and a BFA in printmaking.

Her informal training in sewing, embroidery and quilting came from her mother, maternal grandmother and a long line of craftswomen.

Love of gardening shows through in much of Catherine’s work. Her color palette and rich textures come from nature and the garden. House and home are also common themes.

Catherine’s goal is for her work to be comfortable, inviting, and maybe just a little bit fun.

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

Inner Journey Healing Arts Center

For those seeking harmony & healing Massage Acupuncture Energy Healing Hydrotherapy Stones Jewelry

InnerJourneyHealingArtsCenter.com • 109 N 3rd Street, Niles • 269-687-8865

Dorothy Tristan Painter Dorothy Tristan (Oil On Canvas, 2014) was a poor girl from the slums of New York who was sent when she was ten by the Herald-Tribune Fresh Air Fund to stay for two weeks with a wealthy family in Connecticut.

The woman gave her a set of oil paints, and she started painting, and for years there was no turning back. She attended the High School of Industrial Art in NYC, and then the prestigious Art Students League.

After graduating from high school, she worked for six months as an industrial designer until she was picked up by Eileen Ford and became a top model.

She painted while modeling in Rome.

Then, when she returned to this country and started acting, painting became more of an on-and-off thing, between movies and television shows. She played the female lead or large supporting roles in a number of feature films and television shows, working with Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, Al Pacino, and Gene Hackman. She is the author of five nationally-distributed feature films.

Dorothy has now started painting again, full time, and is completely engrossed in it.

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of December 18-24, 2014 • Page 3

GET OUT!

Beat cabin fever this winter N

ILES — Fernwood Botanical Garden is hostinga number of events to get everyone out of the house during the upcoming weeks, including the 52nd Annual Niles Area Christmas Bird Count this Saturday.

make a wreath or holiday piece for $60 per couple (up to six people), or $45 per couple (six people or more). Contact Fernwood at (269) 695-6491 to make your reservation today.

About Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve Fernwood is a special

Niles Area Christmas Bird Count Saturday, Dec. 20 Are you a birder living in the Niles-Buchanan area? Do you enjoy feeding and watching the birds at your home feeders?

Then become a part of the 52nd Annual Niles Area Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, Dec. 20.

Contact Wendy Jones at Fernwood for more information on how you can participate by counting birds at your home feeders.

Family Holiday Activities Festive decorations, natural beauty, and family fun abound at Fernwood during December. Stop by for some holiday fun on the weekend of December 20 and 21. Start with the Holiday Train Exhibit.

See the train and landmark buildings made of natural materials in the Fern Conservatory all winter.

Children can make a holiday craft from 1 to 4 p.m. both days, and storyteller Miss Cindy will be sharing Christmas stories from 1 to 2 p.m. Cocoa will be available for purchase 1 to 4 p.m.

Events are free with paid Fernwood admission.

Dave Baker Exhibit: Sentinels “Sentinels” is the title of an exhibit in Fernwood's Gallery of new works by St. Joseph artist David Baker. The exhibition features 27 works in watercolor, charcoal, and

oil. The show continues through Jan. 25.

Gingerbread Houses Galore!

Beautiful gingerbread houses of all sizes and shapes made by children and culinary students from the area are now on exhibit at Fernwood. Categories include youth and student. These colorful domiciles will be on display at Fernwood for you to enjoy through December 21.

Free with paid Fernwood admission.

Holiday Wine, Wreaths Bring your holiday party to Fernwood! New this year, Fernwood is offering an exclusive holiday experience you won’t soon forget, perfect for family, friends, and coworkers. You and your guests each will create a custom wreath with the help of

professional Fernwood instructors. Seasonal refreshments and beverages are included. Gatherings may be scheduled between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. through Dec. 19.

Choose either the Holly Package or the Jolly Package.

The Holly Package includes one beverage and food item, and each person makes one wreath or holiday piece for $20 per person (up to six people), or $15 per person (six people or more). Couples can make one wreath or holiday piece for $30 per couple (up to six people) or $22 per couple (six people or more).

The Jolly Package is the ultimate festive experience with a variety of beverages and food items included for $35 per person (up to six people), or $26 per person (six people or more). Couples can

The Leader • Niles Daily Star • Dowagiac Daily News Cassopolis Vigilant • Edwardsburg Argus • Off The Water

217 North 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 • (269) 683-2100 www.leaderpub.com

place where nature blends with gardens and art to create an experience of wonder for all ages. Fernwood comprises 105 acres on the St. Joseph River near Buchanan, Michigan, at 13988 Range Line Road, Niles. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The Fern-

wood Café is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.. Fernwood is closed on Mondays and will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Call (269) 695-6491 or visit www.fernwoodbotanical.org for more information and to confirm status of classes.

Page 4 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

SPOTLIGHT

Zoo offers winter hours

S

OUTH BEND Ind. — Potawatomi Zoo invites the community to come visit with Santa on Dec. 20 just before the Christmas holiday and enjoy the winter scenery while strolling through the Zoo and maybe watch the animals frolic in the snow.

The Zoo will be open Dec. 20 from noon to 3 p.m.

Admission for December Winter Days is $5.50 per person, 2 and under are free, and admission for Potawatomi Zoo members is also free. The indoor Learning Center will be open with a “build your own snow globe” activity available and face painting for children of all ages (small additional charge for both).

Don’t forget to bring your camera

for pictures with Santa too.

“Visiting with Santa at the Potawatomi Zoo is an excellent break from your Holiday shopping and a great way to spend an afternoon with your kids at the Zoo,” said Marcy Dean, executive director of the Zoo. Potawatomi Zoo keeper staff will be hosting a bake sale in the Learning Center in support of the Animal Enrichment Fund. Staff will be selling Adopt-an-Animal packages and annual memberships. The Jungle Gifts gift shop will be open. The Potawatomi Zoo Train will not be running this day.

Additional Potawatomi Zoo Winter Days this season will be Jan. 3, 7 and 31, Feb. 14 and 28 and March 14.

Fabrics Current Designer

Closeouts & Excess Goods Home Dec Fabrics • Trims Woollens • Linens • Silks • Bridal Laces • Veils

95% of Our Decorator & Upholstery Fabrics are 50% to 90% Off Retail

Lemon Creek Fabrics 119 W. Ferry St.

Downtown Berrien Springs, MI 49103 269-473-2201 Open Sunday thru Thursday Closed Friday & Saturday

Closed the Month of December Reopen in January 2015

South Bend Civic presents hit play

S

OUTH BEND, Ind. — South Bend Civic Theatre presents Neil Simon’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning comedy “Lost in Yonkers” Jan. 9-25 in the Warner Theatre, 403 N. Main Street in South Bend.

Hailed as “the best play Neil Simon ever wrote” by the New York Post, “Lost in Yonkers” tells the funny and poignant story of Jay and Arty, two teenage boys in 1942. When their recently widowed father has to take a travelling sales job, he leaves his sons to their grandmother in Yonkers.

The boys find life challenging and bewildering around their eccentric relatives: strict German immigrant Grandma Kurnitz, child-like Aunt Bella, and mobster Uncle Louie.

Simon’s play explores the hardship, pain, humor and love of these richly drawn characters.

Scot Shepley directs

Tucker Curtis, Noah Hickey, Noah Johnson, Mary Ann Moran, Crystal Ryan, Casey St. Aubin, and April Sellers.

Neil Simon’s play has been lauded by critics as “… a comedy, a drama, and a hit. With “Lost in Yonkers,” Mr. Simon has given us all three” (Wall Street Journal); “One of Simon's most impressive and funniest plays” (New York Daily News); “Laughter and tears have come together in a new emotional truth. There are moments in this play when you experience a new kind of laughter for Simon, a silent laughter that doesn't explode into a yuk but implodes straight into your heart” according to Newsweek.

Reserved tickets are $21 with performances at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays.

For tickets, call the SBCT Box Office at 574-234-1112 or online at sbct.org.

SBCT’s Warner Theatre Series is sponsored by Nyloncraft and the show sponsor for “Lost in Yonkers” is Schindler, Olson, and Currey.

South Bend Civic Theatre, an award-winning and nationally ranked theatre, is the oldest continuously operating community theatre company in the South Bend/Mishawaka area. Founded in 1957, it staged most of its productions from 1968 to 2007 at The Firehouse, a local historic landmark located at 701 Portage Ave., in the city’s historic Park Avenue neighborhood. Since 2007, SBCT’s 50th Anniversary year, SBCT’s productions are held in their state-of-the-art theatre located at 403 N. Main St. SBCT features the 209 seat Wilson Theatre, flexible seating “black-box” Warner Theatre and cabaret style configured Firehouse Theatre.

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Off The Water, Michiana

A vegan cookie option This recipe is one of the reasons I had to go on strict healthy eating plan to get ready for Christmas in Key West. I ate so many over Thanksgiving it was as if I was on a whoopie pie consumption mission.

However, it’s the holidays and everyone is sharing their cookie recipes, so I want to put some of these yummy vegan options out there. Also, everyone has been asking for the recipe since I posted some photos of these around Thanksgiving.

I made these whoopie pies for my family’s Thanksgiving celebration since a vegan dessert is always my responsibility.

They were gone in a flash, so the recipe is surely worth sharing.

I adapted this recipe from one my friend Wade

sent me this fall. He made them for a dinner party and they were a huge hit. The recipe he sent wasn’t vegan or gluten free, but I didn’t have too hard of a time converting it. The recipe is actually surprisingly easy to make, and if you aren’t pumpkin-ed out yet these are a sure crowd pleaser.

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

COLUMNIST

Week of December 18-24, 2014 • Page 5 ian ichig M n eI Mad

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Delivering Smiles this Holiday Season!

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@katshotcakes.com.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies with Maple Coconut Icing Yield: about 2 dozen whoopie pies Cookie Ingredients: Maple Coconut Icing Ingredients: 3 cups gluten free flour mix ½ cup coconut oil (I used Bob’s Red Mill) About 4 cups organic powdered sugar (sifted) 1 teaspoon baking powder About ½ cup almond milk 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 2 teaspoons sea salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoons cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon nutmeg ¾ cup coconut oil 2 cups brown sugar, firmly packed 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ½ cup sliken tofu ¾ cup carob or vegan chocolate chips (optional) To make the cookies: Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and spices in a medium bowl until combined.

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the oil and the brown sugar. Then beat in the silken tofu, pumpkin, and vanilla. Beat on medium until well mixed.

Next, slowly stir in the dry ingredients scraping the sides of the mixer bowl. Turn up the speed a bit and beat until well mixed then add the chips. The batter will be runnier than normal cookies. It will be more like cake batter consistency.

Preheat oven to 375, then, using a 1 teaspoon scoop, place the dough in uniform balls on parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake about 10-15 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean and the cookies are springy.

Remove from oven and carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack. They will stick to the parchment pretty easily, especially if you use the chips, so you have to be quick.

r e n

To make the icing: Place oil in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment. Slowly add powdered sugar and almond milk a little bit at a time. Be sure to scrape sides often. Add the maple syrup and vanilla and whip on high until peak form. Add sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached.

” -

To assemble the woopie pies: Using a small rubber spatula or spoon, place about 1 ½ tablespoons of icing between the flat sides of two cookies. Place on a tray and repeat until all the cookies are gone. Enjoy!

East Main Gardens Florist

Shop Locally. Live Colorfully.

1521 E. Main St. • Niles, MI (269) 683-8000 • (800) 924-7525

www.EastMainGardensFlorist.com

Give Your Loved Ones

The Freedom To Safely Live At Home At Home Care Assistance, we strive to provide the best service and our efforts don’t go unnoticed. We are proud to be recognized by Home Care Pulse as a Best of Home Care - Endorsed National Provider.

Kalamazoo St. Joseph 269-384-6000 269-983-0005

South Bend 574-289-4444

www.homecareassistance.com

Page 6 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

CUISINE SCENE

Celebrate the season with Journeyman

By GREG WRIGHT

T

HREE OAKS — Looking for an afternoon full of Christmastime activities? Need a break from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping? The Journeyman Distillery Christmas Party in Three Oaks might be your answer.

“We are hosting the event as a fun way to celebrate the holidays with the community,” said Nick Yoder, media representative at Journeyman.

The Journeyman Distillery Christmas Party is a free event with no admission fee or cover charge. This Saturday, Dec. 20, Journeyman Distillery will have plenty of activities for the whole family. The Christmas party runs from noon to 11 p.m. and is for all ages.

“The first half of the day is more geared towards families while the second half is aimed at the 21+ crowd,” Yoder said.

“Our owner, Bill Welter, wanted to come up with an event that got the entire family involved in celebrating the holidays.”

Welter will be dressing as Santa from noon to 3:30 p.m.

and children of all ages are welcome to visit the Journeyman version of St. Nick. During this time there will also be Christmas craft activities for the kids, and while they are constructing crafts, parents can enjoy a fine selection of special holiday cocktails.

The second half of the event (for adults 21 and older) kicks off at 5 p.m. with the Ugly

Sweater Party.

This is actually an ugly sweater contest, so the staff at Journeyman encourages everyone attending to wear their ugliest sweaters for a chance to win a prize. The person with the best (or worst) sweater will win a $100 gift certificate.

During the contest there will be live music (band TBA). The winner of the contest will be

Trinity Episcopal Church

announced at 9 p.m.

“People should come because we always have a great time at the distillery,” Yoder said.

“They’ll get to enjoy great spirits and food and have a chance to win a gift certificate.”

Journeyman Distillery is only a short drive for most of Michiana, located at 109 Generations Dr. in Three Oaks.

For those who have never

attended before, the Journeyman Distillery Christmas Party might just become a new tradition. Yoder and his cohorts at Journeyman Distillery encourage everyone to bring family, friends, and significant others along for a new holiday opportunity to let Journeyman Distillery get them into the Christmas spirit.

shop downtown st. joseph

welcomes you and your family

special somethings for those on your list … and a chance to visit with Santa too!

Wednesday, December 24th

Christmas Eve Worship † 5:30 pm

† Candlelight Service O Little Town of

† Communion † Children’s Story † Christmas Sermon

Bethlehem

Join Us For Sunday Worship

9:30am

Wednesday Healing Service

5:30pm

Saturday Free Community LunchIn

11:30am

9 S. 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 Corner of 4th and Broadway trinityniles.org 269.683.6060

sponsored by the herald-palladium Santa will be in his house thurs. dec.18-tues. dec.23. visit StJoeToday.com for hours.

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of December 18-24, 2014 • Page 7

FOCUS

Holiday lights set to music N

ILES — Local Technologies has partnered with the City of Niles to create a choreographed lighting show at the historic Chapin Mansion.

The Chapin Mansion is adorned with over 45,000 energy efficient lights tied to 250 separate control circuits all synchronized to 30 minutes of festive holiday music.

Ken Kuespert, owner of TPC Technologies, and the staff at TPC designed the light show and accompanying music.

“With 45,000+ lights and 250 control circuits, 30 minutes of choreographed music means that our team -made over two million on/ yoff decisions to keep the -lights in tempo with the mutsic,” Kuespert said.

- Kuespert, who is also the ,mastermind behind Lights son Bell Road at 185 Bell -Road in Niles, notes that -“Families can plan a fun -holiday evening visiting the show at the Chapin Mansion

and the Lights on Bell Road show.”

The Chapin Mansion light show will run evenings, 6-10 p.m., from now until January. It will be divided into four parts, each lasting 15 minutes.

The first part will start at the top of the hour and include the animated lights set to music. The second part will focus on the Christmas lights inside the Chapin Mansion. The third part, starting at the bottom of the hour, will include the animated lights set to a different holiday music program.

The fourth part will again be focused on the interior lighting of the mansion.

The Lights on Bell Road show will run evenings 5-10 p.m., from Dec. 7 until January. This year’s production includes over 60,000 Lights and 20 minutes of music.

TPC Technologies has over 100 years of combined experience with sound, lighting and video, offering both rentals and installations.

Submitted photo

The Chapin Mansion in downtown Niles provides a unique holiday experience for all who pass with lights set to Christmas music.

The Perfect Gift for the Hard to Shop for Person

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

Share the delight of dinner, performance, shopping and more! Downtown Dollars are the perfect gift for ANY occasion.

Purchase Downtown Dollars at

DowntownSouthBend.com

Page 8 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

TOURIST FOR A DAY

Off The Water, Michiana

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

A new tasting experience Holland brewery expands with 'Sidebar'

H

OLLAND, Mich. — Holland, Michigan-based craft brewery and artisan distiller, New Holland Brewing has announced the opening of a new merchandise store and tasting room called Sidecar.

Sidecar opened on Dec. 8 in the retail space next to New Holland’s Pub on 8th at 72 E. 8th Street in Downtown Holland.

Sidecar is a 1600 square foot storefront that will house New Holland’s full line of merchandise, branded apparel, handcrafted items from BarrelWorks Project, as well as an assortment of beer and spirits to go.

The tasting room will be up and running later in December and offer beer and spirits samples, as well as flights and draft beer by the glass.

“This is a great opportunity for us to move our merchandise to an adjacent space where people can browse without feeling crowded,” says VP of Retail Operations Dave White. “Additionally, it’s a great place for customers to hang out and grab a drink if they’re waiting for a table at the pub.”

Sidecar will be open seven days a week, feature a direct route to the Pub on 8th,

host plenty of space for browsing and beer and spirits release parties, as well as employ an educated staff to answer questions about their products.

“Aside from the logistical reasons this growth accommodates,” says White, “Sidecar is about providing our customers with an atmosphere to Stop & Taste with us in a relaxed and welcoming environment. We can’t wait to share the space with the community.”

Sidecar opened its doors at 11 a.m. on Dec. 8th and will announce the launch of the tasting room in coming weeks.

About New Holland Brewing Co. New Holland Brewing Company’s deep roots in the craft industry go back to 1997.

Their role as an integral member of the artisan approach is something they take seriously, yet engage lightheartedly. They believe the art of craft lives in fostering rich experiences for their customers, through creating authentic beer, spirits and food while providing great service. Recognized for their creativity and artistry, their mission to improve the lives of craft consumers everywhere is seen in their diverse, balanced collection of beer and spirits.

Winter $12 Special Choose from Chicken Florentine • Italian Pot Roast Pork Tenderloin • Cedar Planked Salmon Crab Encrusted Barramundi Sunday – Thursday: 4pm-9pm

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Off The Water, Michiana

General Notices 106 BANQUET HALL AND CHAIR & TABLE RENTAL up to 200 people American Legion Post 26 104 N. 3rd. St. Niles, MI (269)357-1411

WRONGLY DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?

I can help. (269)473-2370

Business Oppor200 tunities Earn Extra Cash on the Weekends

delivering the Leader AREA ROUTES AVAILABLE As an independent contractor you determine the hours you work on Saturday and/or Sunday. You must have a valid drivers license and your own transportation.

Contact Cindy at 269-6877727 or cindy.klingerman@leaderpub.com to learn more about this profitable opportunity

Help Wanted 300 DRIVER TRAINEES! GET PAID CDL TRAINING NOW! Learn to drive for Stevens Transport NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! New Drivers can earn $900/wk + Benefits!

Carrier covers cost!

Be trained & based locally!

Now offering New Regional Routes in IN! 1-800-882-7364

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS!

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

StJosephMI.ExpressPros.com

JOIN THE GATEWAY TEAM

We have openings in both Berrien and Cass Counties for associates interested in helping individuals with disabilities and barriers in their homes, communities and on-the-job.

We are seeking: Job Developer [FT]: Assessing and identifying individual’s abilities, and placing them in the appropriate job. Then, ensure their success by training them at the employment site.

Skills Trainer/Job Coach [FT/PT/On Call]: Supporting, training and monitoring participants striving to accomplish individual goals such as learning to grocery shop, cook meals, on-the-job training, etc.

Executive Assistant [FT]: Perform a wide range of administrative and office support activities for Management to facilitate the efficient operation of the organization, (personal management skills relative to organization, prioritizing and multi-tasking abilities, including showing initiative and able to communicate effectively, both internally and externally). Must be experienced in Microsoft Office Suite.

Case Manager (Success Coach) [FT]: Provides case management support with the goal of obtaining and maintaining employment for Felony Court Participants. Serve as a program liaison with other components of the criminal justice systems including judges, attorneys, parole officers, court personal, and service providers.

For a complete description of openings and to apply, please visit our website at www.gatewayvro.org

LEADER PUBLICATIONS ROUTES AVAILABLE

See our ad under business opportunities

WELDERS We have immediate openings in the Elkhart Axle Facility for a qualified Welder. We offer competitive wages and an excellent benefit package including dental, vision, medical, short term disability, and 401(k) plan.

Experienced candidates only need apply in person or submit resume to:

Industrial Axle Company 21608 Protecta Drive, Elkhart, IN 46516 or email to:

kellyhunt@al-kousa.com

9 CLASS

Kenneth Smith, Inc. Truck Drivers Pulling Dump Trailers Wanted

DRIVERS NEEDED:

Class A CDL and Dump trailer exp. preferred. Tristate area, Home nights and weekends, Fuel Savings Sharing Program, Safety Bonus, Health Benefits.

Apply in person 2596 Detroit Road (M-60) in Niles, MI or call 269-684-5960 to request application www.kennethsmithinc.com

Week of December 18-24, 2014 • Page 9

Instruction & Training

309

Houses for Sale

500

6423 Long Lake Berrien Springs, 4 room, 2 1/2 bath, acres, 2 fireplaces, barn $269,900 Call Mike at (269)470-2995

Rd., bed4.4 pole

P.D.K. Firearm Instruction Concealed Pistol License Contact Paul: 269-462-2584 or Kelly: 269-783-6570 pdkfirearms.com

Apartments 2 BEDROOM

412

FOR SALE

Apartments Available $565/month (269)684-4500 tanglewood-niles.com

STONE LAKE MANOR

This is a 37.5 hours/week position.

Full Benefits package. Will work every other weekend.

Send resumes to environment@nwvmemory.c om or call 574-247-1866 and talk to Henry Borr

Senior Apartments.

2 months free on select units.

Spacious, two bedroom located on beautiful Stone Lake, Intercom entry building, elevator, emergency pull cords. Seniors 62 years or older. Rent starts at $631.00 (based on income).

Please call Toni at 269-4453333 or stop by today at 145 Stone Lake St. for more information. Equal Housing Opportunity. TDD 1-800649-3777 American Preferred 1-800-968-1792

Niles Twp Home 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Larger Corner Lot Eligible for 100% Financing Call or Text Chris Moore Freedom Realty (269)362-5665 (269)687-8484

Arbor Trails

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

1615 N. 5TH St.• Niles, Mi 49120

(269) 683-1850 We Have Spacious 3 Bedroom Townhomes with Full Basements Starting at $635/mo.

1&2 Bedroom Apartments and 2&3 Bedroom Townhomes Available!

• SWIMMING POOL • AIR CONDITIONING • 24 HR. MAINTENANCE • COMMUNITY ROOM

FREE WiFi

• SECURITY ACCESS INTERCOM SYSTEM • PLAYGROUND

Stop in for a tour!

M-F 8am-5pm

WELDER WANTED

Al-ko Axis is hiring for a welder. See the larger ad in today's paper.

Elderly Care 307 KARE SERVICES

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

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.

2 Bd/2 Bth, air cond., Vaulted ceilings, $488/MO* Buchanan, 269-695-3119

HOMES FOR SALE IN DECATUR

Cassopolis

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME HOUSEKEEPER

Manufactured 502 Homes GREAT HOME! GREAT PRICE!

NEW PRICE!

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!

RECENTLY FORECLOSED

Special Financing Available, Any Credit, Any Income 2BD, 1BTH, 696SqFt, located at 19790 Metcalf Court South, Edwardsburg, $29,900. Visit www.roselandco.com\DMD, Drive by then call (866)351-1234

WHETHER BUYING OR SELLING

Integrity Real Estate Professionals would love the opportunity to serve you. Call any of our agents for professional service you expect and deserve.

269-684-5030 Integrity Real Estate Professionals

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

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

SHARP 2 BEDROOM

NILES COMMUNITY AUCTION HOUSE Antiques, collectables, furniture, & tons of new items! Antique Auction December 20th, 4pm.

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

Rent-Lease, Misc. 442 OFFICE SPACE

Cemetery Lots 617 2 PLOTS & 2 VAULTS

(269)240-8800

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

For rent, approx. 750 sq ft, corner office, secure building, indoor parking, reasonable rent. Call Roger Tracey (269)683-2211

in Mission Hills Memorial Gardens in Niles, valued at $4,600, asking $1,600 negotiable, will pay transfer fees! (219) 393-1977

Page 10 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

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Dec. 18

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.

Dec. 19

The Lake Michigan Col-

lege 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. 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

Off The Water, Michiana

WHAT'S HAPPENING? Mike Nadolski at (269) Dec. 20 927-8109 or mnadolski@lakemichigancollege.edu.

New Troy’s popular Indoor Flea Market is Dec. 19-21 back for a new season!

The flea market will take place Saturday, DecemFor the first time ever, ber 20 and Saturday Dethe Twin City Players cember 27, and continue (TCP) will bring one of on the last two Saturdays its season’s productions of every month through to the Lake Michigan March. It is open from 9 College Mendel Cen- am to 3 pm. Admission is ter Mainstage. Perfor- free. mances of the holiday musical The Christmas Schooner, book by John Reeger, music and lyrics The Saturday before

by Julie Shannon and Christmas, founder Robdirected by Paul Mow, ert Swan will bring towill be on Friday, Dec. 19 gether four of the finest and Saturday, Dec. 20 at opera singers you could 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. wish to hear, including 21 at 2 p.m.

Acorn favorite Christine

Steyer, who has performed at The Acorn numerous times. This year is Bob’s 10th year producing his Christmas Show! The show begins at 8 p.m. at the Acorn.

Tickets are $25 each.

Dec. 21

and then share caroling with homebound members. After caroling the group will head to First Presbyterian for refreshments. Please join us on Christmas Eve for a worship service at 4:00 pm which also includes a pageant.

Dec. 24

Worship services begin at 9:30 am Sunday morning at Fairplain Presbyterian Church, followed by refreshments and education hour at 11 am. Following the education hour this Sunday, December 21, Fairplain Presbyterian Church will host lunch with Benton Harbor First and Niles Presbyterian churches

The Episcopal Church of the Mediator in Harbert, Michigan will host its Christmas Eve services on Wednesday, Dec. 24 with a Family Service and Children’s Pageant at 5:00 p.m. The late service will begin at 10:30 p.m. with Christmas carols followed by

CLASSIFIEDs Good Things to 636 Eat Sweet Texas Oranges 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

Tools & Machin663 ery TOOLS FOR SALE

Adam buys JUNK CARS

Adam Buys Repairable Cars adamsjunkers.com

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

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

Home Improvement

700

FRYMAN'S SEAMLESS GUTTERS & SIDING FRYMAN’S ROOFING

Adam Pays the most!!

FREE PICKUP 7 days a week Title or not!!

Owned for 50 years. (269)7825008 (David & Terri Fryman)

HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING

MK CONSTRUCTION

Pole barn & other garages specialist. Roofing Siding, Framing and more. Over 40 years experience. Licensed.

Contact Michael N. Knepple (269)476-9777

MR. MAINTENANCE FREE ESTIMATES

Roofing, Siding & Windows, (574) 300-6556 Light Hauling & Spring Clean-Ups, No Inside or ALWAYS PAYING top dollar for junk cars, Outside job too big or small. affordable rates. trucks & farm equipment. Low Also buying repairables. Paul (269)591-1403 buys junk cars & trucks.

(574)993-1131 WILLIAMS HOME

BUYING

IMPROVEMENT

repairable scrap and unwanted vehicles, top dollar paid. Call or text for a free quote today. Free towing.

Kevin (817)437-0450

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

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

Call

Heating

WANTED TO BUY

(269)687-8639

WE WILL BUY

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

Tree Service 725 Recycling Service 743 Trucks, Vans, 942 PAYNE'S TREE CA$H 4 JUNKERS 4-Wh Drives SERVICE 1993 FORD F250 Tree Trimming & Removal.

Stump Grinding & Firewood.

Bobcat & Concrete Work.

Your home exterior experts.

Quality guaranteed! Locally Insured. (269)663-8091

Retired machinist selling Over 30 years of experience, tools. (269)845-7779 leave tile work, kitchens, bathmessage rooms, decks & porches, & doors, window Wanted to Buy 672 windows wrapping, siding, fascia & ADAMS JUNKERS soffit. Call Randy (269)7823139 (269)208-9838

Fixable Cars Wanted

•Honey 1 1/2 lbs. $7

Household Merchandise

FOR SALE

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

THE CUTTING EDGE PRO TREE CARE

Complete Tree Service SAME DAY ESTIMATES Insured, Competitive Rates.

269-687-4972

Antenna Service

WHY PAY TO WATCH TV?

737

Dozens of Free HD & Digital channels, use your own wiring, complete installation & repair, tower removal, packages with antenna, rotor & amp starting at $340.

Free estimates.

(269)357-6352 antennasplus1.com

Ext. cab, Diesel, 4x4, 8 ft. box with contractors cap, 198,000 miles, everything works, $4,500 OBO. Also red fiberglass Tonneau cover, fits 2007-2013 GMC-Chevy 2500 long box, $400 OBO. Turn that Junker in your yard (269)782-3139 to cash in your hand 801 Carberry Rd, Niles Autos for Sale 945 269-687-5865

Snow Removal 745 SNOW PLOWING

Residential & Com04 Mini Cooper $8,888 mercial. Free Estimates.

06 Pontiac G6 $10,685 Reasonable Rates. Call Larry at C & C Concrete 07 GMC Canyon $13,888 11 Jeep Cherokee $27,988 (269)228-1163

Misc. Services 747 HANDYMAN JOE & WIFE

Retired electrician will do electrical repairs, replacements & other electrical needs, also painting, general house cleaning, garage & basement cleaning Concrete Service 739 & light carpentry.

LET US DO IT FOR YOU! DEPROW CONCRETE Call between 9am-7pm Concrete, bricks, blocks & (269)340-2064 or stonework. Any type of tear (269)340-2365 out & replace. Basement repairs, landscaping, bobcat KLIMEK work. No job too small. 35 ENTERPRISES years experience. Concrete $2.20 a sq. foot. Insured. Electrical Contracting, No Job Too Big or Small. Free Quotes.

Jerry (269) 352-4010 Affordable Pricing, Licensed & Insured. (269)684-6290 (269)470-4097.

Painting Service

or

754

703

OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE

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

J.M. HUNT ENTERPRISES, LLC Painting & Drywall. Insured.

Free Estimates.

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

Call (574) 264-1174 today!

2006 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab (Red) Engine: V8, 4.7 Liter City 14/Hwy 19/Comb 16 MPG 116k miles Comfortably Seats 5 people $7,500.00 Call Scarlett Auto Sales (269) 461-4197 2010 Hyundai Elantra GLS 46k grey in Color Guaranteed 30 MPG/hwy Front Wheel Drive 4 Door Sedan No Credit Checks No Interest Low down Payment Low monthly payments!!

Free 6 month Warranty!

Call Scarlett Auto for more information!

(269)461-4197

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 raised a total of $15,000 in donations.

Welcome in 2015 at The Acorn with the renowned and infamous Super Happy Funtime Burlesque troupe from Grand Rapids.

Post show includes champagne toast and yummy nibbles. A bit outrageous, wonderfully entertaining and an altogether great night. Must be 21 or older.

Jan. 2

i

Kids (6 years and older) can Celebrate Winter with Sarett Nature Center on Jan. 2 beginning Whole Foods in Misha- at 9:30 a.m. The morning waka will host a Com- session ($3) will include munity Support Day for learning about animals Unity Gardens, where in winter, snow and win5 percent of after-tax ter survival. The afterprofits of one day’s noon session (additional sales at Whole Foods $3) will be spent snowMarket Mishawaka shoeing or cross-country goes to this community skiing. Children should organization.

Whole dress appropriately and Foods Market is open bring a lunch. Please from 8 a.m. to PARENT/GUARDIAN 10 p.m. NAME call (269) 927-4832 to Dec. 26.

DIRECTOR’S NAMEregister.

participant information

Community

Religious Religious Theatre

Jan. 3

Food Food Nature LEGEND LEGEND

Crafts Holiday

Art Alcohol Tourist Art Shots Parting Tourist Information Information Music

Religious Family

LEGEND

Alcohol Crafts

Tourist Information Community Music Music

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i

$

$

Business Religious

i

Movies Business Movies Food Shopping Nature Holiday Nature Holiday

Information Sports

Community Theatre Community Theatre Camping Family Parting Shots Family Tourist Information Parting Shots

Nature Summer

$$

Crafts Nature

Crafts Music Shopping Shopping Holiday

Music Sports Sports

Parting Shots $

$

Dec. 31

party options, and other special arrangements, contact Mike Nadolski at The Elkhart County (269) 927-8109 or mnParks and the South adolski@lakemichiganBend-Elkhart Audubon college.edu.

Society are calling upon volunteers for the annual Elkhart County Christmas Bird Count, which Artist and Pokagon Powill be held on Saturday, tawatomi tribal citizen Jan. 3. Bird watchers can Jason Wesaw will conpre-register by contact- duct a workshop outlining the Elkhart County ing his unique process of Parks at (574) 535-6458 producing work with clay or e-mail rdecaire@ directly harvested from elkhartcounty.com to the Great Lakes. Learn register their name, ad- about historical native dress, and phone num- pottery while creating ber and e-mail to receive your own one-of-a-kind further directions for the artworks alongside the bird count. artist. Participants will use clay harvested in Jan. 10 and around South Bend.

Early bird tuition is $80 before Dec. 10. After The artistry and time- Dec. 10, tuition is $100. honored tradition of Jan. 11 epic storytelling through dance will delight audiences at the Lake Michigan College Mendel South Bend Civic TheCenter Mainstage when atre is creating new opthe Russian National portunities for bringing Ballet Theatre presents onstage and backstage Don Quixote on Satur- talent to their producday, Jan. 10, 2015, at tions in 2015. On Sun4 p.m. Tickets for the day January 11th and Russian National Ballet Tuesday January 13th, Theatre presents Don SBCT will hold audiQuixote start at $34 and tions for four upcomare available by calling ing shows: Spamalot, A the LMC Mendel Center Behanding in Spokane, Box Office at (269) 927- Venus in Fur, and Cat 1221 or visiting www. on a Hot Tin Roof. Aclmcmainstage.org. Spe- tors will have the opcial rates are available portunity to list their for groups of 10 or more. preference of shows to For information about be considered for in this AGE (18 OR UNDER) group rates, pre-show new format. The audi-

Crafts Crafts Movies

$$

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.

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

Business

Food Food Religious Religious Camping Summer Summer Family Parting Shots Camping

i

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$

ADDRESS CITY

STATE

TELEPHONE

ZIP

EMAIL

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE FESTIVAL?

FILM TITLE

film information

CATEGORY

¢ LIVE ACTION/NARRATIVE

¢ DOCUMENTARY

RUN TIME (MUST BE UNDER 12 MINUTES) SCHOOL PROJECT? ¢ YES ¢ NO

FILM YEAR

MINUTES

SECONDS

SCHOOL NAME (OPTIONAL)

HAVE YOU MADE FILMS BEFORE? ¢ YES ¢ NO DID YOU COLLABORATE WITH FRIENDS?

¢ ANIMATION

Happy Holidays

IF YES, HOW MANY?

de ad l i ne :

¢ YES ¢ NO (IF YES, PLEASE PROVIDE THE NAMES OF ALL COLLABORATORS) :

ja nu ar y 20

201 5

PARENT/GUARDIAN

participant information

NAME

DIRECTOR ’S NAME PLEASE WRITE A PARAGRAPH TELLING US ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR FILM (IF YOU NEED MORE SPACE, FEEL FREE TO USE A SEPARATE SHEET):

We invite you to submit your best short film(s).

Entry is free and open to anyone 18 and under.

Questions?

Contact Leslie Sullivan atouchofgreatness@hotmail.com ∙ Films crea ted between 201

2 and 2015 are elig ∙ Total running ible. time (including credits: 12 minutes ∙ Work alon or less. e or with friends /classmates. ∙ Little-to-n o help from an adu lt is grea do more, tell them to make their own t. If they want to film! ∙ Render and burn you standard playback r full-frame project to a DVD for file (.mp4, .mov, or upload your full-resolution vide .wmv, .mkv, etc.) o to Dropbox a link to thom

AGE (18 OR UND

ADDRESS

ER)

CITY STATE

TELEPHONE HOW DID YOU HEAR

from our family to yours!

FILM TITLE

film information

CATEGORY

¢ LIVE ACTION/NA RRAT

IVE

RUN TIME (MUS T BE UNDER 12 MINU

¢ DOCUMENTAR Y

¢ ANIMATION

FILM YEAR

TES)

SCHOOL PROJECT? HAVE YOU MADE

¢ YES ¢ NO

FILMS BEFORE?

MINUTES

¢ YES ¢ NO

DID YOU COLLABOR

ATE WITH FRIENDS?

PLEASE WRITE A PARA GRAPH TELLING US

SECONDS

SCHOOL NAME (OPT

IONAL) IF YES, HOW MAN

Y?

¢ YES ¢ NO (IF YES, PLEASE PROV

for more information, or to download guidelines & application

h Annual Coa stline Childre n’s F

ZIP

EMAIL ABOUT THE FESTIVAL?

IDE THE NAMES OF

2513 N. 5TH STREET, NILES • 269-684-5015

ALL COLLABORATOR

S) :

Shopping

tions will begin prompt- and Transpo comes Tourist Information ly Information atShopping 6 PM and will be as Tourist an effort toCamping promote Sports held at the Scottish safety and responsible Rite building (across practices amongst Brewthe parking lot from Fest participants.

South Bend Civic TheNature HolidayNature Holiday atre Camping on Main Summer Street).

Jan. 30-31 More information, including casting breakdowns for all shows and Thrill on the Hill will start Parting Shots Family Parting Shots Family downloadable sides are on Friday the 30th with $ available at sbct.org.$ a 5-9 p.m. run and then an adult “midnight run” Jan. 25 from 11 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Shopping SportsShopping Sports Then all day Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

BrewFest, an annual Unlimited runs for $3! beer sampling event We provide your sledCamping Summer Camping Summer hosted

by Century Cen- ding tube! Contact City ter will be held on Sat- Hall at 269-695-3844 urday, Jan. 24, 2015, in for more details. Or downtown South Bend. click the picture above The collaboration be- for the Thrill’s Facebook tween Century Center page. $

Dec. 26

Dec. 30

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Week of December 18-24, 2014 • Page 11

$

the Midnight Candle Lit Holy Eucharist at 10:45 p.m. All times are (EST).

There will be no service on Christmas Day. The public is welcome. The church is located at 14280 Red Arrow Highway, midway between Lakeside and Harbert

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$

Off The Water, Michiana

Page 12 • Week of December 18-24, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

Bringing the community together Edwardsburg man transforms former courts building into event venue in Cassopolis

By SCOTT NOVAK scott.novak@leaderpub.com

C

ASSOPOLIS — When Darin Boyles had a chance to purchase the original Cass County courts building in downtown Cassopolis, he jumped at the chance.

Boyles, of Edwardsburg, had a vision of providing the Village of Cassopolis something it was in need of — an events center.

So he took what was basically a shell of a building and turned it into the Turtle Lodge Event Venue, which sits across the street from the historic Cass County Courthouse on North Broadway.

Boyles is a landscaper by trade, but he also buys property to restore and rent.

The Turtle Lodge was built in 1860 and used as a courts building. In the early 1900s it was a laundry before becoming a Masonic Temple.

It was at that time that the Masons added the large banquet-style room onto the back of the building.

Boyles has fully restored the building using reclaimed items and vintage pieces from all over the country.

He added a 30-foot tall stone fireplace, panoramic windows with stained-glass panes from a church and vintage-style lighting. There is also a dry bar, light show equipment, dance area, event stage, food staging area and a prayer-healing garden.

“Over the years, I watched the building and it sat vacant,” Boyles said. “I went and talked to the county and ended up buying it from the county because the previous owner had stripped it down to the walls.

They had taken antiques and the woodwork. It was stripped down to just the bricks.

“I got it from the county and I had a vision because I am an architect as well. I envisioned what it would look like when we restored it to the best of our ability. We did a little bit here and a little bit there and it took about a year to do the downstairs.”

So how did he come up with the name?

“It is named the Turtle Lodge because I name all my properties turtle something,” he said. “I am half Native American and half Irish. I am a huge nature and animal advocate. So, it is part of who I am and I thought that would

be a fitting name for it.”

Boyles also envisioned using the facility mainly for non-profit events such as community functions and potlucks. “Eventually we are going to do a free movie night, bingo and things like that.”

The Turtle Lodge is currently the home of the community potlucks every third Sunday of the month.

It will host the Christmas potluck on Dec. 21 beginning at 3 p.m. There will be food, music, dancing and karaoke.

The Turtle Lodge will also host its first New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31.

The event will have free snacks and drinks, karaoke, dancing and more. Those who attend must be 21 years old and identification is required.

“I wanted it to be a feel good, positive building and it really has turned out to be that,” Boyles said.

The Turtle Lodge can also be used for weddings, receptions, holiday parties, reunions and graduations.

For those looking to rent the facility, call Boyles at (574) 302-0997.

Leader photo/SCOTT NOVAK

Darin Boyles turned the former Cass County courts building and Masonic Temple into the Turtle Lodge Event Venue. It took Boyles nearly a year to complete the renovation of the 1860 building. It is now being used to host community potlucks as well as being rented out for wedding receptions, company parties and more.