Off The Water - May 2-8, 2014

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Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 6, Number 18

The Art of

Truffles

Chocolate Garden offers tasty treats

www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

TOURIST FOR A DAY

Off The Water, Michiana

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

The Art of Truffles

The Chocolate Garden offers tasty treats in Coloma

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

C

OLOMA—When Tina Buck decided to make unique Christmas gifts for her colleagues and clients at a Chicago-based advertising firm, she had no idea that her homemade chocolate truffles would eventually become her passion and her livelihood.

With Sara Lee as one of their major accounts, the group spent a lot of time talking about chocolate, so Buck thought that truffles—considered to be the most decadent form of chocolate—would be an appropriate gift.

“I tore out a bunch of recipes, and I noticed that the ingredients were all very, very similar. So, I didn’t alter the ingredients so much as the percentages,” Buck recalled. “And, I ended up creating some techniques that turned out to be unique in the industry, which I didn’t realize at the time. That’s the benefit of being selftaught—of not going to culinary school.”

The responses to Buck’s creations were overwhelmingly positive, so she continued making truffles as gifts each Christmas for the next 15 years, decorating the boxes and making special tags for them.

“I gave them out, and people went crazy for them,” Buck said. “At first, I thought it was just being polite, but it happened every year. The reaction was the same every year. People told me

that they were the best truffles they had ever had.”

Feeling as though her “creative muscles” were not getting enough exercise with her advertising career, Buck finally decided to take the plunge and devote all of her energy to making and selling the best truffles available.

And, having grown up in the small town of North Adams, Mich., Buck missed the rural life. She also missed being close to family, so she relocated to Coloma.

“I chose this area for two reasons. My brother and sister-in-law had relocated to St. Joseph with my nieces, and I wanted to be near them,” Buck said.

“Also, this area reminded me of where I grew up. I was really missing

being surrounded by greenery and farmland.”

Now, Buck’s Chocolate Garden is literally nestled in a peach orchard, and 15 years into the game, her truffles have garnered national attention. “USA Today,” “The Chicago Tribune,” “The Food Network,” “Midwest Living” and “The Travel Channel” have all featured her products.

“Honestly, I think it’s just our focus on the product and the experience— focusing on doing one thing, and doing it very well,” Buck

explained. “We have a philosophy of doing fewer things better, so we focus on truffles. We don’t do ‘everything under the sun dipped in chocolate.’ We don’t jump on the bandwagons and just follow the trends.”

Having received so much national attention, The Chocolate Garden has become a tourist destination, and many of Buck’s customers come long distances to get her unique truffles.

“It’s funny because, while we do have a local following, the major-

ity of our customers come from Chicago and the Detroit area, from Indiana and from Grand Rapids,” Buck said. “It is easier to get people from 45 minutes away to come here than to get St. Joseph people to come here. I do feel like people don’t often enough take advantage of what is in their own backyards.”

In fact, many would-be local customers ask if the truffles are available for purchase anywhere closer to their homes. However, due to cost, freshness, and production capacity, Buck only sells truffles at her shop at 2691 Friday Road in Coloma and through her website, www.chocolategarden.com.

For Buck, everything—including sales numbers— comes second to her

goal of creating the best truffle and the best chocolate experience possible.

“I absolutely refuse to sacrifice the quality and freshness to sell more. My goal is to be as proud, at the end of the day, as I can be of what we have done,” Buck explained. “When that is your focus, the profitability and the ability to stay in business come.”

With that as her mission, Buck has had to make certain choices that customers don’t always understand.

“Pretty much everything we do is different. We like to have people leave their expectations at the door because we are purposefully not those other momand-pop chocolate shops,” Buck said. “We’re trying to do something different and, we think, better.”

One difference that customers will notice at The Chocolate Garden is that every product is already packaged. There are no candy counters from which to pick and choose.

“Everything here is packaged,” Buck noted.

“Often, we’re trained to think that ‘packaged’ means ‘not fresh,’ but really, in our case, packaged means ‘very fresh.’”

Truffles from The Chocolate Garden must be packaged as soon as they are made because of the unique processes that Buck developed when she was first experimenting with the delicacies.

“Our truffles are not like anybody else’s truffles,” Buck said. “One of the techniques that I

See CHOCOLATE page 7

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of May 2-8, 2014 • Page 3

FOCUS

Submitted photo

g n i m n r ade fun! a e L

Art is a hands-on experience for campers at the ARS Gallery/Arts & Culture Center. At their “Spot the Animals” camps, Bethel College offers campers the opportunity to learn more about insects and other animals with experts such as Kevin Drury.

Summer camps offer something for everyone

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

M

ICHIANA—It may seem like springtime is just getting started, but for parents, it is already time to start thinking about ways to keep the kids occupied, engaged and having fun this summer. After all, there’s not even six weeks left of the current school year.

No matter whether your kids are athletic, artistic or nature-lovers, there is sure to be a camp nearby that will appeal to them. Here are a few ideas.

Benton Harbor The First Tee’s mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill lifeenhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

Session dates: June 16-July 17 and July 28- August 28.

Ages 5-18. For more info, call (269) 927-4653 or visit www.thefirstteebentonharbor.org.

Brookview School celebrates summertime fun and adventures with their elementary summer camp adventures. Camps for children ages 6 weeks through 36 months and ages 3 through 6 are also available. Camps run from June 2 through Aug. 20.

For more info, call (269) 925-3544 www. brookviewschool.org.

The ARS Gallery/Arts & Culture Center is offering 4 weeks of art camp this summer titled “A Summer Arts Quest.”

Three of the camps will focus on the art and culture

of France, while a fourth camp will be a teen camp focusing on intensive studio arts. Individual camps are geared towards children ages 5-17. Camps run from June 23 through Aug. 8. For more info, call (269) 208-4409 or visit www. annarussoart.com.

Berrien Springs Andrews University’s Renaissance Kids Architecture Camp will feature the theme “Design for All People.” Seven oneweek sessions will serve various age groups, ranging from 7 to 15. For more info, call (269) 932-5055 or visit www.andrews.edu/ go/renaissancekids.

Five Pines offers religion-based, week-long outdoor camps from June 16 through Aug. 8 Individual camps are geared toward children in kindergarten through 8th grade. For more info, call (269) 4711396 or visit www.fivepines.org.

Mishawaka Bethel College will offer academic camps which provide campers from ages 11-14 with the opportunity to explore their interests with college professors, instructors and leaders who channel their knowledge into a fun, hands-on college learning experience. Various camps run between July 7 and 18.

Register online at www.

BethelCollege.edu/Camps or email Academic.

Camps@BethelCollege. edu with questions.

Niles Brandywine Performing Arts Workshop (PAW) will hold a four-day intensive

performing arts workshop for students in surrounding communities from June 16 through 19. They offer exposure to singing, dancing, acting, and performing. Open to children currently in 1st through 6th grades. For more info, call (269) 635-3116 or visit www.facebook.com/brandywinePAW. Fernwood Botanical Gardens will be offering art-themed day camps for children ages 6-16 and nature-themed day camps for children ages 4-12 from June 10 through Aug. 8.

For more info, call (269) 695-6491 or visit www. fernwoodbotanical.org.

Lake Michigan College at Bertrand Crossing will offer STEM summer camps on robotics, LEGOs, and Arduino. Individual camps run June 16 through Aug. 8 and are geared towards children ages 7 through 18.

For more info, call (269) 695-1391.

Niles-Buchanan YMCA camps give kids the opportunity to explore nature, discover new talents, try new activities, gain independence and build lasting friendships and memories. Individual camps are geared for children ages 3 years through 5th grade. For more info, call (269) 683-1552 or visit www. nb-ymca.org/home.

St. Joseph The Krasl Art Center will offer three sessions of art-themed summer camps from June 16 through Aug. 7. They are also offering a number of short programs and studio classes. Ages: 3-12. For more info, call (269) 983-0271 or visit www.krasl.org.

South Shore Health & Racquet Club’s summer camps will give children a chance to discover new skills and make new friends. They will be instructed in tennis, swimming, basketball, soccer, dodge ball or volleyball in one of six weeks of camps that begin June 9 and run through Aug. 29. Ages: 5-12. For more info, call (269) 429-2101 or visit www.sshrc.biz.

The City of St. Joseph’s Summer Tennis Camp will provide participants with instruction in tennis. Camp runs from June 9 through July 31. Ages: 7 and older.

For more info, call (269) 983-6325 or visit www.sjcity.com.

The City of St. Joseph’s Summer Recreation Program will be organized by the YMCA this year and will include seven weeks of summer fun. Activities will include outdoor sports and games, arts and crafts, and more. Ages: 5-11. For more

All are welcome to worship with us.

Cass Fellowship Bible Church

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

info, call (269) 983-6325 or visit www.sjcity.com.

Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA offers a variety of summers camps for kids ages 3 through 14, including the Gla-da-wen-ta Day Camp. Camps run from June 9 through Aug. 22. For more info, call (269) 428-9622 or visit www.bhsjymca.org.

Stevensville Children’s Music Workshop will be offering summer theater workshops for children in grades 1 through 12. Week-long camps begin July 7 and run through August 8. For more info, call (269) 4222930 or visit www.cmwonline.org.

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Page 4 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

ON DISPLAY

Dowagiac Fine Arts Fest all about diversity

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

D

O WA G I A C — I t started out 22 years ago as a one-author event, but Dowagiac’s Dogwood Fine Arts Festival has now grown into an 11-day affair with 14 different events. This year, the festival will begin on May 9 and continue through May 18 with performances, workshops and lectures scheduled to take place at venues throughout the city.

“We focus on a different part of the arts each day— literature, music, food, dance and so on,” explained Bobbie Jo Hartline, who has served in the role of festival secretary for the last 12 years. “There is a little bit of something for everyone.”

Born out of concern for the community, it has grown into an annual event that serves all sectors of the community.

“It started with an area teacher, someone at an area

theater, and someone in the chamber of commerce getting together and asking, ‘What does our community need?’” Hartline recalled.

“Many of our artists will work with kids in the schools during the day, and then do a family event in the evening.”

With its fame having spread throughout various artistic communities, the mission of Dogwood is well-known.

“When Dogwood calls, it’s often, ‘Oh yes, we’ve heard of you!’” Hartline said. “They already know our heart and our mission, and they seem to like and share it. The artists who come here want to pass along whatever caught their hearts on fire.”

Over the years, Dogwood has been visited by such famous authors as Kurt Vonnegut, Norman Mailer and Joyce Carol Oates. They have also hosted three winners of the prestigious culinary award named for James Beard.

Several members of the Rock and Roll Hall of

Dancing Wheels is a professional, physically-integrated dance company uniting the talents of dancers with and without disabilities. They will perform at 7:30 p.m. on May 10 on the Dowagiac campus of Southwestern Michigan College.

Submitted photo

Left: Author Elizabeth Strout. Right: Chefs Lois Ellen Frank and Walter Whitewater.

Fame have also made appearances at the festival.

“When we throw a party, we don’t mess around!” Hartline said.

Word of mouth is also responsible for the evergrowing crowd that attends

Dogwood’s various performances and events.

“So many of our patrons are regulars. They come one year, and then they bring a friend the next year because they enjoy it so much,” Hartline explained.

“That, to me, is the greatest compliment.”

Each year, visiting artists, authors and performers are chosen through what Hartline called “a wish-list process.”

“Most of the committee

work focuses on a wish list.

It will be someone that they’re interested in or someone who’s been recommended by a member of the community,” Hartline explained. “Typically, we have really good taste, so many of our artists are very expensive. Sometimes, we’ll have to wait to bring one of them until we find the resources to do it.”

This year, PulitzerPrize winning author Elizabeth Strout will be delivering a lecture on May 9. She will also be present at a book-signing and author’s reception. An adaptation of her novel “Olive Kitteridge” will premier as a mini-series on HBO this fall.

Headliners will also include Detroit rocker Mitch Ryder, known for his top-10 hits with the Detroit Wheels, including “Devil with the Blue Dress” and “Sock It to Me, Baby.” He will be performing on May 17.

The art of dance will be See FINE ART page 8

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of May 2-8, 2014 • Page 5

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The New Territory Arts Association will soon be sharing its space at 210 Water St. with the Mason Jar Café.

Realizing a dream Mason Jar Café to offer quality food, unique concepts

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

B

ENTON HARBOR— While the remodeling and construction may have begun at the 210 Water St. space only a few months ago, the dreams that preceded that work are much older.

“I’ve been wanting to do this forever. I mean, ever since I started in the restaurant business, I’ve wanted to do this,” said Jayme Cousins, co-owner of the new Mason Jar Café.

“We’ve talked about doing it ourselves for years, but it was a scary concept. We finally decided to take the dive this year.”

Cousins and her husband, Abel Abarca Martinez, plan to open the café, located in the same building as the New Territory Arts Association, on May 5.

“We’re getting there,” Martinez said, looking around at the open-concept kitchen where he will be serving up breakfast and lunch specialties that he has developed over the last 15 years as a chef in a number of local restaurants.

Those dishes will be made with as many locallysourced ingredients as possible.

“Our food vendors are already set up and ready to order. They’re awesome!”

Cousins said. “We’re using Gordon Food Service’s program, ‘Near By,’ and

Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

Jayme Cousins and Abel Abarca Martinez will be opening their Mason Jar Café on May 5.

They plan to serve locally-sourced, fresh, natural, and organic foods for breakfast and lunch.

Ferris from Grand Rapids is supplying all of our coffees.”

“We’re going to work with local farmers, too—as much as we can,” Martinez added.

Cousins and Martinez also want to make sure that their new restaurant serves the highest quality foods to customers with a range of special dietary needs and preferences.

“It’s organic, glutenfree, and vegetarian.

Definitely, all of our meats

will be antibiotic-free,” Cousins said. “We want to be available to anybody.”

Having worked in some restaurants that did not always have such high standards regarding freshness, Martinez and Cousins are looking forward to making their own vision a reality.

“We’re very excited.

We’re going to try to do as much natural as we can,” Martinez said.

Those high standards are a point of pride for

Cousins, who has 11 years of experience working for a national restaurant chain.

“I started as a busser, and I did everything up to management. Now, we get to have food that we’re proud of, and it’s going to be made fresh every day,” Cousins said. “We’ll be happy to serve it.”

The restaurant will be open seven days a week, serving breakfast and lunch, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. The complete menu is available at www.masonjarcafe210.com.

However, some of Martinez’s breakfast specialties include grit cakes with organic poached eggs and goat cheese, glutenfree pancakes with a berry compote, French toast stuffed with berries, and a vanilla bean waffle made with coconut and almond flour.

“For lunch, he’s doing a grilled salmon,” Cousins said. “His crab cakes, I would definitely say, are one of his specialties. He makes amazing crab cakes!”

Seating for about 50 people will be available at 11 tables that Cousins’ own father made in a rustic-yeturban style that permeates the cafe. Outdoor seating on the patio will also be available when the weather permits.

The new Mason Jar Café can be reached at (269) 757-7333.

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Page 6 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

Going vegan doesn't mean giving up pizza Last week I was lamenting about the lack of decent vegan pizza options in Chicago.

Quality pizza is about the only thing I miss about being vegan. There are a couple restaurants here who have a decent appetizer pizza, but nothing traditional. Not a day later, a recipe for quinoa crust pizza came up in my twitter feed. It sounded like an easy and healthy way to indulge in one of America’s great comfort foods, and something I’ve certainly been craving. I’ve wanted to try making either a cauliflower or quinoa crust pizza for a while and hadn’t gotten around to it. I was particularly intrigued by the quinoa crust idea because I thought it had the best chance of maintaining the likeness of a traditional pizza crust.

If you aren’t familiar with quinoa, you should be.

Quinoa hails from South America, looks like a grain,and can be used interchangeably with rice or couscous. However, it is actually a nutrient rich seed so it’s lower glycemic than grains. Packed with protein, iron, calcium, and inflammation fighting flavonoids, this ancient plant has been declared one of the most nutrient dense foods available. Typically, you cook

COLUMNIST

Kat Barry Kat's Hot Talk quinoa in water of vegetable stock, but for the pizza crust, you want to soak it overnight.

This is because you bake it later, once you’ve turned it into a pizza dough.

I had the perfect opportunity to try out this new crust concept the other night, when my friend Michelle came over for dinner. She doesn’t eat gluten, and we always joke that we are the two pickiest eaters in Chicago with all of our dietary requirements. I can’t think of a more perfect opportunity to make a homemade vegan, gluten free pizza!

I’d never made pizza sauce from scratch before either, so this was a totally new experiment. We were thrilled with the outcome, and

will definitely make it again!

Especially because it was so easy and all the ingredients are things you probably have around in your pantry.

Growing up, we made homemade pizzas all the time as a family, so I’m really thrilled that I’ve come up with a satisfying health foodie version! I’m sharing the crust and sauce recipes here, the tofu ricotta topping is available on my web site (katshotcakes.com) and in the archives online at offthewater.com 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@katshotcakes.com.

15 Minute Pizza Sauce from Scratch Yield: Sauce for 2-8 inch pizzas

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 6 ounce tomato paste ½ teaspoon Batti Becco seasoning salt (available at Caffe Tosi)

½ cup minced yellow onion 1 teaspoon agave nectar ¼ cup vegetable stock ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

1. Warm the olive oil in a medium size sauce pan. Sautee the onions until almost translucent, then add the garlic.

2. When the onions are cooked, whisk in the agave, tomato sauce, vegetable stock, and seasoning salt. Reduce to low and let simmer about 10- 12 minutes, whisking often.

3. Stir in the fresh basil, cook another 3-5 minutes, turn off heat, and allow to cool a little before spreading on crust.

Easy Quinoa Pizza Crust Yield: 2-8 inch pizzas

1 cup quinoa, rinsed drained, and soaked overnight. ¼ cup vegetable stock ½ teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1. After soaking 1 cup rinsed quinoa overnight, drain and rinse again, then place in a food processor fitted with the “S” blade.

2. Add remaining ingredients and puree until you have a smooth batter. It takes about five minutes of straight running the food processor to achieve a smooth batter. The quinoa seeds are tough, so it takes a while to break them down. You will want to stop the processor often and scrape the sides.

3. Fill two well oiled 8 inch cake pans with batter and bake at 425 for about 15 minutes.

4. Remove from oven, flip crusts over onto a parchment lined cookie sheet, top with pizza sauce, toppings, and tofu ricotta then bake for another 10-15 minutes.

5. Allow to cool, slice and serve.

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Off The Water, Michiana

TOURIST FOR A DAY

CHOCOLATE continued from page 2 created when I was experimenting results in our truffles not having that hard, sometimes waxy, outer shell that every other truffle, confection, bon bon and pretty much any other chocolate candy has.”

Rather, the creamy texture of the truffle is present in every bite.

“That results in a creamy, sensuous, luxurious experience, and it takes that to the extreme,” Buck explained. “You don’t have to fight through that hard, waxy outer shell to get to the yummy, luscious part.”

While that hard outer shell causes a truffle to lose some of the creamy quality that the candy is famous for, it also helps to preserve it by creating an oxygen barrier, which is why other chocolate companies can leave their truffles uncovered and they don’t get stale and hard.

“Since we don’t have

that, we make and immediately package our truffles to provide the oxygen barrier.

For us, we have to package it,” Buck explained. “We try to stay about a half a step ahead of demand. Things are literally being made and packaged and brought down into the store.”

The secret process by which Buck achieves the creamy quality of the truffles is complex and timeconsuming, but she feels that it is absolutely necessary.

“We make all of our truffles on-site, by hand.

It’s very labor intensive.

It’s a two-day process,” Buck said. “Every single one is made by hand.”

Since the truffles come packaged, Buck added a tasting bar three years ago so that customers can get a sense of the flavors they

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

fles.”

Buck also offers a large, 36-piece assortment c a l l e d “Wine and Roses.”

When customers purchase that assortment, $10 of the purchase price goes towards another of Buck’s passions—finding a cure for cystic fibrosis. In fact, over the last 15 years, The Chocolate Garden has raised more than $117,000 for research into the disease with which both her prefer. niece and a long-time “It accompackages that employee’s daughter were modates seven people at a include 2, 4, 9, or 16 piec- diagnosed. time. And, for $2.99, you es.

Those assortments can try any three of our 26 “Every flavor is pack- include two varieties made flavors, and that gives peo- aged in sets of two, and with local wines. ple an opportunity to get an there are also six different “We use two wines experience with it,” Buck combo two-packs. There from local wineries. One said. are multiple assortments,” of them is, literally, right Once customers have an Buck said. “I don’t remem- up on the hill—you can idea of what appeals to ber the exact number, but see it from here— their tastes, they can there are like 200 different Contessa. We use their choose from a variety of ways you can get our truf- most popular red wine,

Dogwood Fine Arts Festival May 9-18, 2014

Friday, May 9

Author Elizabeth Strout

X

Saturday, May 10 Dancing Wheels

X

Wednesday, May 14 Storyteller Kim Weitkamp

X Friday & Saturday May 16 & 17 Culinary demonstration and tasting

X Saturday, May 17 Mitch Ryder Concert

866-490-2847

Week of May 2-8, 2014 • Page 7

www.dogwoodfinearts.org

called Lago Rosso. We make a truffle with that,” Buck said. “We also make a truffle with St. Julian’s Solera Cream Sherry, which by the way, is the most award-winning sherry that’s produced in the United States.”

Buck has also developed a process by which customers can consume her chocolates in a drinkable form. Customers can order the patent-pending drinks there or purchase the mixtures to take home and drink later.

“The Garden Mocha and the Decadent Drinking Chocolate are like ‘conkyou-in-the-head’ chocolatey. The Truffle Latte has a more subtle flavor,” Buck said. “We’re looking for the most intense chocolate experience possible.”

If you, too, are looking for the most intense chocolate experience possible, The Chocolate Garden seems like a likely place to find it—and it is right in your own backyard.

Page 8 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

SPOTLIGHT

'Red Herring' takes center stage

N a h E

F 2 S 4

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

S

OUTH BEND—In a debate or in a story’s plot, a “red herring” is a distraction away from the main subject, but at the South Bend Civic Theatre, “Red Herring” will continue as the main attraction for the next two weeks.

“It’s hysterically funny!

It’s a love story, it’s a spy

story, and it’s a murder mystery—all wrapped up into one play set during the McCarthy era,” explained Craig McNab, director of the play. “It’s a quirky play—not like anything I’ve run into in the past.”

Written by Michael Hollinger, “Red Herring” is a comedy that plays with film noir conventions as it presents three romances through 24 scenes involving 18 different characters.

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www.nunemakers.com

Submitted photo

Far Left: Nora Ryan Taylor and Casey St. Aubin both play a number of different roles in SBCT’s latest Yet, despite all of the action “Playing so many roles in play, “Red Herring,” including, in this scene, Magand the number of roles, the one play presents a great gie and Frank. Above: In this scene from MichaelI cast is surprisingly small. opportunity to showcase Hollinger’s Cold War comedy, Lucinda Moriarty “There are six actors your talents on stage.” plays Mrs. Kravitz, and Mark Moriarty plays Andrei. who play 18 different roles, one of whom is dead,” McNab said. “It really is meant to be six actors playing 18 roles. That means the actors really have to keep jumping. There’s not a lot of time for sitting around in the green room!”

With all of the action riding on just six actors, McNab has had to ask a lot from his small cast.

“I have an unusually good cast,” McNab said.

“I’m delighted with them.

We’ve got the play worked out really well.”

One of those actors, Casey St. Aubin, has enjoyed the challenge of playing three different roles.

“I play Frank Keller, the FBI agent who is on a case and who is also caught up in a romance with his girlfriend; a priest; and a major,” St. Aubin said.

St. Aubin has also enjoyed working with the other five actors in the play, including Tori AbramCopenhaver, Daniel Grey, Lucinda Moriarty, Mark Moriarty and Nora Ryan Taylor.

“It’s been fantastic,” St. Aubin said. “This is my second performance with the civic theatre, and they really bring together a community of eager actors who are passionate about their craft.”

St. Aubin has particularly appreciated the opportunity to work with Taylor for a second time.

“I worked with Nora Taylor in ‘Leading Ladies,’ and we developed a great friendship,” St. Aubin said.

“The civic theatre is really a unique opportunity for meeting other great actors who bring a great presence to the stage.”

FINE ART continued from page 4

Spring is in the air

Apartments start at $435/mo.

SPECIAL: Move in by May 20th, 2014, pay your first month’s rent and security deposit, and receive your next month’s rent free!

1,2 Bedroom apartments and 2,3 bedroom townhouses

• SWIMMING POOL

• AIR CONDITIONING • 24 HR. MAINTENANCE

• COMMUNITY ROOM • SECURITY ACCESS INTERCOM SYSTEM • PLAYGROUND

Call for your own private tour of this great community

A little piece of Heaven, right here on Earth!

Arbor Trails

1615 N. 5TH St.• Niles, Mi 49120

(269) 683-1850

represented by Dancing Wheels, who will perform on May 10. Founded by Mary Verdi-Fletcher, the first professional wheelchair dancer in the United States, Dancing Wheels is a professional dance company that unites the talents of dancers with and without disabilities.

Other artists include storyteller Kim Weitkamp and the chefs of Red Mesa Cuisine in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Special events will include performances of plays by emerging playwrights and a unique event called “Art Comes to Tea.” The Lake

Both the cast and the director have enjoyed taking on the challenge of bringing the playwright’s words to life on the stage.

“It’s very cleverly done—very well-written. I give the playwright kudos for it,” McNab said. “It’s a comedy, not a farce, so it relies more on language for its humor.”

If the enthusiasm of the director and the cast are any measure of the success of the play, then “Red Herring” is sure to please audiences.

“It’s just a lot of fun. It’s quirky and unusual, and it’s a lot of fun, and I think people will enjoy it,” McNab said.

Furthermore, because the play is being staged in the “black-box” Warner Studio Theatre, audiences

are sure to be drawn into the fast-paced action.

“It’s a very intimate space, so you’ll be very close to the action,” McNab said.

However, that theater is on the smaller side, and tickets for the remaining performances are selling quickly. They are $15 for Wednesday and Thursday performances and $18 for Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances.

More information and tickets can be obtained onlineC at www.sbct.org, by phoned at (574) 234-1112, or inp person at 403 N. Main St.,C 1 South Bend.

The play will runH through May 11 and showtimes are 7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Effect Winds will also perform a special concert for children: “Klassics for Kids.”

Children’s artwork will be displayed at Dowagiac Union High School on May 15. A full schedule of events can be found at www.dogwoodfinearts.org.

Also taking place over the festival dates is the 24/7 art walk, “Up Front Art.” Twenty different pieces of art will be displayed throughout Dowagiac.

“You really can go there at 3 o’clock in the morning.

The pieces are displayed in store windows, and we have a map with information. The locations are listed on the map, and information about

the pieces is posted in the shop windows,” explained Hartline. “The pieces are also for sale, and you can also vote on your favorite.”

Visitors to Dowagiac can also take advantage of this opportunity to view and appreciate the 15 public sculptures located throughout the town.

“Some people say we have more public sculptures per capita than anywhere else,” Hartline said.

“They were all donated with private funds.”

All in all, the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival should provide a busy, fun and very artistic 11 days in Dowagiac this month.

9 MARKETPLACE

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of May 2-8, 2014 • Page 9

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

Adoption ADOPT:

096

NYC firefighter and teacher are longing to share their heart and home with a child.

Expenses paid.

Please call Tara and Pete 1-877-246-1978 or www.TaraAndPeteAdopt.com

General Notices 106 VENDORS WANTED!

Farmers, Cottage, & Craft 2nd Saturday EACH Month Small Business Saturdays 4th Saturday EACH Month Register @ www.theorchardsmall.com or call 269-927-4467

WRONGLY DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?

I can help. (269)473-2370

Help Wanted

300

GateWay Services has Immediate Job Openings in Berrien County

JOB COACH

(Temp/On-call): Help individuals maintain employment by providing training, job coaching and support at job sites for a two week period. Starting pay $10.00 per hr. with mileage reimbursement.

SKILLS TRAINER (Individual): Provide direct care by planning and implementing goal oriented outcomes.

Some of the approaches for skills development are: job retention; cooking classes; shopping exercises; interpersonal development.

Starting pay $9.00 per hr., FT or PT VOLUNTEERS WANTED Assist with administrative duties, building maintenance, or document scanning and filing.

Send resume and cover letter to: staffing@gatewayvro.com

HUMAN RESOURCE/ RECEPTIONIST

Consumer Products Manufacturing Company is looking for a person with good leadership, communication and organizational skills.

Job duties include but are not limited to: handle human resource functions as well as the reception area.

Handle and monitor mail, DRIVER/LABOR UPS, Fedex and other delivery service.

POSITION Please apply online at Class A B & Chauffeur www.trip-pac.us or send drivers. Please apply in person at Arnt Asphalt cover letter and resume to ally.olafsson@tri-pac.us Ceiling of Benton Harbor, 1240 S. Crystal Ave., Benton Kenneth Smith, Inc. Harbor, MI Truck Drivers Pulling Dump Trailers Wanted DRIVER/SERVICE

TECH

Joy's Johns Hiring Duties include delivery, pickup and cleaning of portable restrooms. Must have 1 year straight truck experience, chauffeur license, current D.O.T. physical, clean driving record. Able to read a map with knowledge of Michiana area.

Reliable transportation and able to work flexible hours a must. Apply at 1325 Airport Rd. Niles, MI

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

TRUCK DRIVER TRAINEES

NEEDED NOW AT US XPRESS Earn $800/wk Local CDL Training NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Be trained & based locally!

1-800-882-7364

NOW HIRING

23 Full and Part Time Positions. Opening in Gerneral office help, Marketing, Delivery/Set-up and Customer Service Dept. $19.95/Start.

Call Human Resource at 855-647-9540 for immediate interviews

LEGAL ASSISTANT

part-time position. A variety of office/clerical duties.

Typing 60 wpm and transcription. Knowledge of WordPerfect and Outlook.

Collection and legal experience useful. Excellent communication skills, and keenness to learn.

Send resume, references, and cover letter to StateLineLaw@aol.com

NOW HIRING REALTORS

Call today 269-683-4507 Coldwell Banker R. E. Specialists 1400 Chicago Rd Niles, MI 49120

CLASSIFIED/ CIRCULATION ASSISTANT

Assist classified & circulation managers with the operations of 2 daily and 5 weekly publications.

Must have computer experience, excellent typing skills and a strong work ethic. Sales experience a plus.

Hourly compensation plus commission. Monday - Friday 40 hrs/week.

Please send resume to: donna.knight@leaderpub.com or 217 N. 4th St. Niles

SENIOR PGA TOURNAMENT

May 14th to May 31st Grounds Crew Be Part of an Extraordinary Local Event!

30-40 hours $8.00/hr.

Day and Night Shifts

(269) 408-1980

stjosephmi.expresspros.com

Snyder's Pool & Spa

HIRING RETAIL ASST.PART TIME- Retail experience, knowledge of computers & pool chemistry a plus, work Niles and Cassopolis locations, able to lift 50#.

SERVICE ASSISTANT- All types of pool services including delivery, have basic hand tools, will train right person, valid driver’s license, able to lift 70#, enjoy all weather.

RETAIL & ASSISTANT STORE MANAGER-Work into full time, April-November, work as retail clerk and asst. mgr., valid license, lift 50#, prior pool experience a plus.

All positions require good work history, verifiable references, able to pass drug tests, good customer services skills, reliable transportation and pay based on experience.

Fax Resume: 269-684-8813 Email: poolspausa@yahoo.com Phone: 269-684-8792

For Rent

418

Cassopolis & Dowagiac

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, May 4, 2:00-4:00

3 BDRM HOMES

Unfurnished, appliances included, Two 3 bdrm homes available. (708)712-8703 Niles

2 BEDROOM

side by side duplex, wood fireplace, washer/dryer hook up, patio, no pets or smoking, $600/month, $600 deposit, 1 yr. lease, (269)470-4448 or (269)470-9836 ROUND LAKE CHALETS SISTER LAKES, MI “Summer Rental Specials” May 31st –June 7th $495+tax Aug.29th –Sept.1 (Labor Day)$295+tax Weekend (Sept.) $239+tax

23555 Shurte St. Cassopolis, MI $95,000 3 bedroom ranch on 1 acre of property! Partially finished lower level adds family room or additional bedroom.

Spacious eat-in kitchen, Central air, Dowagiac Schools. Don’t just drive by – you must see the inside of this one! Patty Lauten/ Coldwell Banker Roth Wehrly Graber (269) 663-8800 Coldwell Banker, RWG Patty Lauten (574)340-4271 (269)663-8800

RANCH BRICK

in Brandywine School area, 2,100 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 Weekly rate bedroom, 1/2 acre lot, (Reg.$1125)+tax Elderly Care 307 fenced back yard, 2 car attached garage with extra “Fishing, boating, KARE SERVICES swimming, or just relaxing.” side access, completely reCompassionate Home modeled, tiled kitchen, * Only a 20-minute drive Care Services bathroom & utility room, from Niles!

(269)684-1984 carpeted bedrooms with Ask for Brad Light (574)292-2900 walk-in closets, large dining (269) 687-9227 email:KKaidanRay@aol.com room, wood flooring in dinOr cell (574) 850-6940 www.KAREService.com ing room, family room and hall, cathedral ceilings in Sister Lakes Instruction & family room, wood burning 309 2 BED HOUSE Training fireplace, all new stainless No Smoking No Pets. appliances, large P.D.K. $650/month plus security steel Florida room, additional 3 Mature Adult(708)925-8973 car garage great for Firearm Instruction workshop. $139,900 Concealed Pistol License (269)845-1830 Classes. Next Class Sat. May Office Space for 427 WHETHER BUYING 24th, 8a-5p. Contact Paul: Rent 269-462-2584 or Kelly: OR SELLING 2 6 9 - 7 8 3 - 6 5 7 0 Integrity Real Estate OFFICE SPACES pdkfirearms.com Professionals FOR RENT would love the opportunity to Apartments 412 1st office space has dual serve you. Call any of our entrances off 4th & Sy- agents for professional 2 BEDROOM camore in Niles and has 1 service you expect and deApartments Available large office or can be di- serve. $565/month vided into 2 smaller of269-684-5030 (269)684-4500 fices. Lease includes heat, Integrity Real Estate tanglewood-niles.com gas, water, sewer, Professionals Cassopolis $800/month for both ofSTONE LAKE MANOR fices or $450/month for Senior Apartments.

2 one. 2nd office space has months free on select units. 1 entrance off 4th St. in Spacious, two bedroom Niles and has a reception located on beautiful Stone area plus 2 offices, Lake, Intercom entry $350/month. Call or email building, elevator, emer- mike.caldwell@leaderpub.

(269)687-7700 gency pull cords. Seniors 62 com. years or older. Rent starts at $631.00 (based on income).

500 Please call Toni at 269-445- Houses for Sale 3333 or stop by today at FOR SALE 145 Stone Lake St. for more REMODELED information. EHO. TDD 1FARM HOUSE 800-649-3777 American Berrien Center Preferred 1-800-968-1792 2.3 Acres RIVER OAK APTS 5,000 sq. ft.Barn 1729 Oak St., Niles Attractively Priced (269)687-8340 $189,000 1-2 Bedrooms Call or Text Chris Moore Heat, Water, Hot Water & (269)362-5665 Trash All Paid Freedom Realty www.coreleases.com (269)687-8484

10 MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY Lawn Service

Page 10 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

Manufactured 502 Homes A GREAT HOME FOR LESS

2 bd/1 bth, Newer appliances, New flooring throughout, Qualifies for $199 base lot rent For 24 months!

Riverside Estates Call 269-695-3119

HOMES FOR SALE IN DECATUR

Consignment Turn your Closet into

625 Cash paid for small &

CASH

Kids' clothing: newborn to teen, Baby gear & furniture, Maternitywear Accepting Spring & Summer wear Feb. 1st Call for appointment.

Who kNew Consignment 269-782-9800 We are open Mon. - Sat. 10am-5pm, so you can replace the winter clothes your kids are outgrowing

Things to Do 637 CASS DISTRICT LIBRARY http://cass.lib.mi.us (269)445-3400 Check out our online services: Freegal, Learn4Life, and more! Call for more info.

medium size refrigerators working or not,

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

WE WILL BUY

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

Home Improve700 ment #1 GUTTERS

We do seamless gutters.

Free estimates, call (269)782-0401

FRYMAN'S SEAMLESS GUTTERS & SIDING FRYMAN’S ROOFING

Your home exterior experts.

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

HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING

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

Geiger Refrigeration Service HOME SERVICES & 841 Carberry Rd. Niles REPAIRS LLC (269)687-8639 All kinds of Project & Repairs. 30+ years exp.

HUGE SALE AT Plumbing, Elect., Drywall etc.

BILL'S USED APPLIANCES 269-782-7919 Hours: Mon-Fri. 10a-5pm 269-357-4853 Sat. 10a-3pm JDS HOME Closed Sunday 2559 S. 11th St. Niles IMPROVEMENT (269) 340-5952 Repairs, Replacement, New

Household Mer642 chandise FOR SALE

3 Bed, 2 bath homes ready to be moved into. Lease Options at starting at $621 per month (includes lot rent, insurance, water, trash) Call 269-423-7024 or visit www.phelpscommunity.com to view pictures

Mobile Homes 506 SPRING SAVINGS ON AFFORDABLE HOMES •Preowned 2&3 bed homes •New 3 bed, 2 bath homes for $34,500 •Many standard features •Modular homes available Colonial Acres (269)663-2424

General Merchandise

595

NOW OPEN NILES FLEA MARKET Wed.-Sat. 10a-5p Sun. 12p-5p 111 E. Main St A few Vendor spots still available. For more info call 574-323-4187

Antiques 600 ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET Sunday, May 25 8am to 4pm 400 Exhibitors Rain or Shine Located at the Fairgrounds, right in Allegan, Michigan $4.00 Admission. No Pets

Auctions AUCTION

603

Merchandise for 643 Sale YOUR E-CIG EXPERTS

Vaporizers & e-hookah Over 50 liquid flavors.

US 31 Tobacco 50552 US 31 N, South Bend (574) 271-0333

Lawn & Garden 648 EVERGREENS

U dig, 2 - 5 ft., white pine, Norway Spruce & Blue Spruce, $12. (269)6834039

Wanted to Buy

672

ALWAYS BUYING

★★★★★★★★

•Junk Cars• •Free Pick Up• Cash Paid On The Spot Up to $1,500

Small Jobs Licensed/Insured.

(269)445-7005

welcome.

Call John

MICHIANA HANDYMAN

24 hours, 7 days a week BUYING

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

Kevin (817)437-0450

721 GARDENING WITH INTEGRITY, LLC

Home repairs, siding, drywall, bathrooms, painting, plumbing and much more!

One call does it all!

NOW OFFERING "SPECIAL PRICING" on all bathroom remodeling and painting.

Call today to take advantage of this offer!

(269)405-2643

MK CONSTRUCTION

Pole barn & other garages specialist. Roofing Siding, Framing and more. Over 25 years experience. Licensed.

Contact Michael N. Knepple (269)476-9777

Landscaping 724 PEMBERTON LANDSCAPING Spring Clean up, Mowing, Fertilization, Shrub Trimming, all Yard Maint. needed, Residential and Commercial. Licensed and Insured.

Call 574-876-1127

Tree Service 725 C & S MARSH TREE SERVICE

Flat work of all kinds, stamping, sidewalks, concrete patching, patios, driveways and pole barns.

No job too small. Free Estimates.

Insured (269)228-1163

HOPPER EXCAVATING "Have Gravel Will Travel"

Driveway, stone, slag, recycled concrete, asphalt, top soil, sand & fill. (269)7821744/(269)783-1744

Recycling Service

743

CA$H 4 JUNKERS

Painting Service

754

From start to finish.

Stamped, flat & dirt work.

Insured (269)663-8091

CONCRETE OUTFITTERS

Concrete countertops, vases, and more.

Please visit our website for more information. www.concreteoutfitters.com (269) 228-8131

GLEN'S HAULING (269)683-8389.

Cell (269)340-4233 Topsoil•Stone•Etc.

KLIMEK ENTERPRISES

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

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

MICHIANA MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION

All your Masonry needs!

Chimney Cleaning. Insured & Bonded. Senior discounts .

(269)362-1566

MIDWEST ROOFING

FREE ESTIMATES

Sewer Rodding• Drain Cleaning• Internal InspectionLocating• Sewer Replacement-Repair Licensed, Bonded, Insured.

(269)228-0496

COMPLETE CONCRETE

Family owned since 1984.

Lifetime Warranty Shingles Flat Roofs & Gutter Covers.

Call (269)684-7199

Roofing, Siding & Windows, Light Hauling & Spring Turn that Junker in your yard Clean-Ups, No Inside or to cash in your hand Outside job too big or small.

801 Carberry Rd, Niles Low affordable rates.

269-687-5865 (269)591-1403

706

WEAVER CONCRETE

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

Free Estimates.

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

Cleaning Service

757

RICKS POWER WASHING Trees, brush, stump removal, high lift work, insured.

CONCRETE SERVICES RVs, homes, decks, farm (269)362-4331 or 683-1065 Driveways, Patios, Side- equip. & boat docks. Small leave msg. walks, and Room Additions. commercial jobs. Serving DAN'S TREE SERVICE 15 years experience. Call Jay Cass., Dow. & Niles. Free Estimates, Senior DisExcellent Cleanup, Insured. 269-635-4393. counts. Will beat any Free Estimates. Visa/MC. CONCRETE SERVICES competitors estimates.

(574)361-9747 Driveways, Patios, Side- Call 269-470-9507 or 269THE CUTTING EDGE walks, and Room Additions. 470-9498 PRO TREE CARE 15 years experience. Call Jay Insurance 758 Complete Tree Service 269-635-4393.

SAME DAY ESTIMATES LOWER YOUR FRESH TRAX LLC Insured, Competitive Rates.

INSURANCE RATES! 269-687-4972 BOBCAT & Home - Auto - Health - Life Pool Service 727 CONCRETE SERVICE We do the shopping for you! specializing in all types of TCU Insurance Agency SWIMMING POOL flat work & bobcat services, Call Deb Asmus today LINERS & REPAIRS free estimates, insured & (269) 683-6700 x5901 Any size, great prices, all bonded, 30 years ex900 equipment, 35 years exper- perience, excellent refer- Boats, Motors ience. Robertson’s Sales & ences. Senior & Veteran SHORE STATION Service, Niles. Call (269)684discounts. (269)663-2953 with canopy and top $1,800 2669 or (574)292-8822 between OBO (708)296-2372 Paving Service 739 6pm-9pm

MR. MAINTENANCE

Plumbing Service

Specializing in Flat work of all type, seawalls, stamped concrete & Bobcat Service. Free estimates. Insured. Fast, dependable service. (269)4453349 or (269)591-0100

And masonry, driveways, porches, patios, tear out/replace, all repairs, brick, block, stone, fire•Lawn maintenance, places. Will fix wet base•Full Landscaping Service ments big or small, inside • Spring Clean Ups clean beds, preen, mulch, CASPER MASONRY and out. All concrete flattrim shrubs, edging, create Brick/ Block/Stone. Custom work $2.25 sq. ft. Landnew beds & much more & Insurance work. Insured & scaping. Fast dependable service. Quality work. Aaron Call Ellen (269)759-1012 Bonded. (574)298-3520 (269)655-4158

C & C CONCRETE

(574)850-1222 Government Surplus City of Mishawaka May 7th 2014 @ 10AM 700 S. Union St. Mishawaka 46544 Heavy Equipment Streets Parks Sewer depts. Fire Dept Equipment + salvage & scrap. www.auctionzip.com or call 574-876-9641 for details AU10800054

Off The Water, Michiana

BRADY CONCRETE

Misc. Services 747 A 2 Z SALVAGE & JUNK REMOVAL We do all the Loading, Hauling & Clean up Commercial/Residential/ Industrial •Rental Clean Outs •Storage Units •Property Cleanup •Construction Debris •Farms/Barns Demolition Service Available 7 days a week (269)213-1746

Motorcycles & 915 ATV’’s 2003 YAMAHA

TT-R 90, $600 or best offer, runs good, looks good.

(269)782-3139

McDaniel's Harley-Davidson

Stop in to check out the Dyna Low Rider & Sportster SuperLow 1200T. 1910 Lincolnway East, South Bend (574) 289-6650 or shop www.mchadanielsharleydavidson.com

NEW PRICE

MOLE PROBLEMS?

02 Harley Davidson Super Glide, 11,500 miles, Black, Screaming Eagle Engine.

Asking $8,000 OBO. Call 269-684-2654 or 269-4050033.

NIEBOER CONCRETE

Trucks, Vans, 942 4-Wh Drives 02 GMC YUKON XL

We Can Help!

No contract or minimum Call (269)254-6634

Sidewalks, floors & driveways.

Free Estimates. Licensed & In- black, leather tan int., 2-4-all wh. dr., 5.3 liter, trailer sured. (269)684-6673

POLE BARNS & GARAGES

BY NIEBOER

Quality Built (269)684-6673

POND LINERS

EPDM Rubber, Any size Lowest Prices, FREE Delivery, Huge Inventory, TRM Enterprises, South Bend.

(574)246-1922 (574) 329-9294

equip., $6,400 (269)7827734

Autos for Sale 945 New Arrival at Scarlett Auto Sales!

Loaded 2010 Hyundai Elantra 36k $700 down, $275/mo No Interest! No Credit Checks!

7979 Deans Hill Rd Berrien Center, MI 49102 (269) 461- 4197

Off The Water, Michiana

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

May 1

i

The ARS Gallery in Benton Harbor will host an international tapas and wine pairing Evening with Chef Mindy from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $28 per person or $50 per couple.

May 2

“Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision” will be shown at 7 p.m. at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI. The awardwinning documentary will be the final film in the First Friday Film series before the summer hiatus. Suggested donation of $5 will be collected at the door.

The Ernie Hendrickson Band with opening act The Fluffers will perform a concert at The Livery in Benton Harbor at 8 p.m.

i Dinosaurs were never seen, so what do we really know about them? Curious Kids at the Discovery Zone will host a program all about dinosaurs from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Admission is just $3.00 on Thursday evenings only.

i

The Region of Three Oaks Museum will open for the season at noon. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 to 4 p.m.

Sundays May 2 through Oct. 26.

Barn Swallow Theatre will hold their May meeting at 10 a.m. at the theater, located at 22334 U.S. 12 East of Edwardsburg, Mich. Final plans for the first presentation of the 2014 season at Barn Swallow Theatre “Old Time Radio,” directed by Randi Pickley, will be finalized. Anyone interested in continuing the arts in the Michiana community is invited to attend this meeting and become a member of Barn Swallow Theatre. For more information call Carol at (269) 445-2511.

i Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone below the Bluff will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will remain open during the Blossomtime Grand Floral Parade.

Experience “Backyard Monsters: The World of Insects!” before it leaves, stand face-to-face with a giant animatronic scorpion and praying mantis, and see exotic insects from around the world.

Admission is $6 per person for each joint location, or $10 per person for joint admission to both museums in the same day.

May 6

May 3 Applications are being considered for the 3rd Annual Art & Music at the Vineyard taking place at The Round Barn Winery estate on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3 from noon until 6 p.m. Eastern Time. Deadline for applications is May 3, 2014.

Terms, fees and conditions are outlined on application.

Singer Susan Harrison returns to the Box Factory for the Arts stage on May 3 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, available online with PayPal at www.boxfactoryforthearts. org/calendar/#harrison or at the door, are $10; $8 seniors and students; and children 12 and under free.

Celebration Cinema in Benton Harbor will host a red carpet fundraiser for Harbor Lights TV beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door, and can be purchased at St. Joseph Today, the Three Pillars Music Store or online at celebrationcinema.com.

From 3 to 6 p.m. on May 23, the Women’s Service League of St. Joseph will present the NASCHAIR Challenge 2014, the Midwest’s premier office-chair racing competition. Proceeds from this fun event will benefit The Therapeutic Equestrian Center. Register your four-person team

by May 1 to receive free t-

Week of May 2-8, 2014 • Page 11

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

i

shirts. Races will take place on Lake Blvd., St. Joseph.

More info and registration forms are available at www. Cornerstone Alliance womensserviceleague.org/ Small Business Services projects/spring-event.

(CASBS) in partnership with the U.S. Small BusiMay 6-7 ness Administration (SBA) is hosting a free workshop on Small Business Administration funding available Firefly photo with David to existing businesses lookKnight will present two ing to expand or entrepresix-week photography neurs looking to start their workshops at the Box Fac- own business from 11 a.m. tory for the Arts begin- to 1 p.m. Friday, May 9, at ning on May 6 and 7. A the Niles District Library, beginners’ workshop will 620 E. Main Street, Niles. meet on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and an intermediate workshop on May 9-11 Wednesdays from 6:308:30 p.m. The fee for each workshop is $150; $135 for Berrien Artist Guild Barn Swallow Theater hosts members. Prepaid regis- “Old Time Radio Show” ditration is available online rected by Randi Pickley. with PayPal at www.boxfactoryforthearts.org/artMay 10 calendar.html# or by credit card at (269) 983-3688.

i

May 7

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The ARS Gallery in Benton Harbor is hosting photography classes. Classes will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 on Wednesdays for three weeks from May 7 to May 21. Cost is $90 per person.

A Parents Without Partners dance will be held at ZB Falcon’s Hall at the corner of Western and Sheridan Roads in South Bend, Ind. from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

All proceeds will benefit members’ children and grandchildren. Admission is $7 per person. Call (574) 256-9326 for details.

i The ARS Gallery in Benton Harbor is hosting wine education classes for three weeks from May 7 to May 21. Classes will be from 5:15 to 6:30 on Wednesdays. Cost is $45 for all three weeks or $17 per class.

Artist applications are now being accepted for the 3rd Annual New Buffalo ARTigras Art Fair, held in New Buffalo, Mich. The festival will feature 40 booths of all types of original works.

Working demonstration exhibits are welcome also. All applications must be received May 9 before midnight on Saturday, May 10, for consideration in this season’s ARTigras. After review, artists will be notified Jack Hanna’s “Into the of their status by Wednesday, Wild Live” at LMC Men- May 15. del Center. Tickets are $28, $32, $34 & $38. Mendel Center Box Office, (269) 927-1221 or www.lmcmainstage.org. 7:30 p.m.

The Box Factory will host a workshop titled “Writing the 10-minute Play.”

Participants will learn the fundamentals of play writThe Occupational Therapy ing in a fun, interactive sesAssistant (AAS) students sion from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brown Mackie College Actual play writing assignare celebrating OT Month ments will be given to help by hosting an open house the beginner or veteran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to play wright prepare a script showcase the Occupation- for the play writing compeal Therapy profession; one tition to be held on May 16 that is expected to grow - July 1, 2014. rapidly over the next several years.To learn more about this program, please visit http://www.brownmackie.edu/south-bend. Pokagon United Methodaspx. ist Church is sponsoring a

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flea market selling crafts, used treasures and bake sale items from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All funds raised will be used to send children to Crystal Springs Camp this summer. The sale will be located on the corner of M51 and Crystal Springs St. in Dowagiac

at the Buchanan Art Center, 117 W. Front St., Buchanan MI 49107 or by credit card by calling 269-697-4005.

May 16

Barn Swallow Theater hosts “Old Time Radio Show” directed by Randi Pickley.

The Buchanan Art Center is hosting a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). The one-day trip is open to anyone, but BAC and Fernwood members receive a discounted member rate. A Royal Excursion 29-passenger bus has been reserved, and the day begins at 7:45 a.m. and ends at approximately 9 p.m. when the bus returns to Buchanan. Trip prices: $76 BAC/Fernwood* member; $95 nonmember. Includes bus, entrance ticket and driver tip. Sign up in person

May 17

Southwestern Michigan College and the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce will May 11 present the Orchard Hills Country Club’s Annual Spring Golf Scramble. The outing will have a shotgun A new inspirational stage start beginning at 1 p.m. Call play by Shywanee “Shy- (269) 695-3291 for more infox” Manson, Chicago formation or to register. poet, author, screenwriter, playwright, producer and May 16-17 ghostwriter, will have one performance at the Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend, Ind., at 4 p.m. All Michiana area painters on Mother’s Day Sunday, age 18 and over are welMay 11, 2014. Tickets are come to enter two-dimenon sale now for $42.50 at sional works of art for posthe Morris Box Office, by sible entry in the 5th Annual phone at (574) 235-9190 or DeFries Gardens Juried Art 800-537-6415, or online at Show, to be held June 14, www.MorrisCenter.org. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the River Preserve County Park in New Paris, Ind. Artists may submit up to three entries each. The entry fee is The Twin City Junior Play- $10.00 per entry. Submitted ers (TCjP) will hold au- art must be properly framed ditions for its final main for display and the size stage production of the sea- must not exceed 40 inches son. Auditions for the July in either direction includproduction of The Crucible ing framing. The art must

by Arthur Miller will begin be delivered to the Goshen at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May Painters’ Guild on Friday, 11 and at 6 p.m. on Mon- May 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. or day, May 12. Participants Saturday May 17, from 10 are asked to prepare a one- a.m. to 4 p.m. minute monologue and will be asked to participate in readings from the script.

There will be a $35 participation fee, which includes The Dowagiac Conservation a t-shirt for each student.

Club will host a fish fry from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The event will feature all-you-can-eat fish with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, green beans, The Lake Michigan Youth rolls, coleslaw and dessert.

Orchestra (LMYO) will Tickets are $9 for adults conclude its 2013/2014 and carry out, and $4.50 for season with their annual children 12 and under. Call spring concert at 4 p.m. (269) 782-5508 for details.

Sunday, May 11, 2014, the Howard Performing Arts May 16-18 Center, on the campus of Andrews University.

Chemical Bank will host its second annual BBQ, Blues and Bluegrass Festival from noon to 8 p.m. at Whirlpool Centennial Park in St. Joseph, Mich.

Featured artists will be Slim Gypsy Baggage, Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues, Greensky Bluegrass and Mountain Heart. Visit visit stjoetoday. com, or facebook.com/stjoetoday or call 269-985-1111 for more information.

Page 12 • Week of May 2-8, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

GET OUT!

Arboretum showcases variety of experiences

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

S

T. JOSEPH—While some parks along the St. Joe offer an opportunity to reconnect with nature or to explore the area’s history, the Margaret B. Upton Arboretum, situated near the mouth of the river, offers a variety of experiences for visitors.

Ranging along the south bank of the river for about 1100 feet between the Blossomland Bridge and the historic CSX swing bridge, the park provides a place to exercise, to learn about history, to enjoy nature, and even a place to appreciate art.

A paved path through the gently rolling terrain of the park allows pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy an unimpeded view of the river and its traffic as they travel down the Howard Family Recreational Trail.

Huge freighters can often be seen unloading their cargo on the opposite bank, while smaller vessels, carrying fishermen and other pleasure boaters, travel to and from Lake Michigan. A lookout platform offers an even better view of the river as it rushes to the lake.

A number of placards posted along the bank provide more information about the economic activi-

ties that have relied on the river over the years. They discuss such subjects as St. Joseph’s maritime heritage, its boatbuilding industry, its history as a commercial fishing and shipping port, and its current popularity among recreational boaters.

Information can also be learned about the lighthouse supply depot and the railroad swing bridge, which dates to 1904.

As an arboretum, the park is home to a wide variety of trees surrounded by well-tended turf and attractive landscaping.

Bench swings have been placed at various locations throughout the park, offering patrons the opportunity to sit and watch the river’s endless flow. Ducks, geese and seagulls frequent the park as well.

As one of the main sites for the Krasl Art Center’s Biennial Sculpture Invitational, the park also boasts a fresh selection of artistic creations for visitors to admire at any time.

Installed at the end of April, the various sculptures provide park visitors with an opportunity to stop and reflect upon the beauty of nature as it is juxtaposed with the artistic expressions of human beings.

The work by sculptors

Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

Among the trees at the Margaret B. Upton Arboretum, a fresh crop of sculptures have sprung up, thanks to the recent opening of the Krasl Art Center’s 2014 Biennial Sculpture Invitational. from Michigan and Illinois—some of them local—will continue on display through Sept.

2015. More information about each sculpture can obtained by calling a telephone number listed on the plaque beside each sculpture.

Other sculptures from the 25-piece exhibit can be viewed on the grounds of the Krasl Art Center, Lookout Park, the Box Factory for the Arts, and in the Benton Harbor Arts District.

While the sculptures in this collection have replaced those from the previous biennial sculpture exhibit, much older, permanent sculptures can be found on the bluff overlooking the arboretum and the river.

There, visitors will find a stature commemorating the sacrifices made by five firemen who died during the 1898 fire at Yore’s Opera House. The 1872 “Maids of the Mist” fountain is also located atop the

bluff. A more-recently placed chess table and stools provide a place to play a leisurely game while enjoying a view of the lighthouse.

As local residents well know, the bluff itself has a history—having been the location of Fort Miami— albeit a bit further south in Lake Bluff Park. As a makeshift fort built by LaSalle’s men as a location to await his return with The Griffon, it was soon abandoned.

Nonetheless, the fort’s significance is commemorated by a historical marker.

Carefully landscaped and mowed, and decorated with modern sculptures, the banks of the St. Joseph River most certainly appear quite different to today’s visitors than they did to LaSalle’s men, to the shipping captains of the 1800s, or even to the crowds who flocked to the area during the heyday of the Silver Beach Amusement Park.

Still, ever-changing yet timeless, the river continues its inexorable journey to the lake.