Off The Water - June 27 - July 3, 2014

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Beauty & Bounty

Local Agriculture

Farm stand map makes it simple... p.5

Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

Johnston paints "Nature's Palette"....p.6

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 6, Number 26

Down & Dirty

Racing at RedBud will thrill the whole family www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

y t r i D & n Dow FOCUS

will d u B d e R t Racing a ily m a f e l o h w thrill the

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

b

uchanan—If the typical fireworks show just isn’t quite loud enough, long enough or thrilling enough for you, maybe it’s time to head over to RedBud Motocross this Fourth of July weekend and find out what 36,000 other people already know.

Located at 13638 Red Bud Trail North—just five miles north of U.S. 12 —“America’s Motocross Track” is just a short drive from home for most area residents. However, people come from all over the country to see this annual event, many of them camping on the raceway’s grounds.

With races beginning on July 3 and running through July 6, “It’s the largest motocross event in the U.S.,” said RedBud spokesman, Pat Schutte. “The best riders in the world are at RedBud on the Fourth of July weekend.”

Those pro riders will be competing in the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship on Saturday, July 5, and a ticket to the event lets you get just about as close to the action as you could possibly want.

“If you go to any other motorsports event, you buy a ticket, and you’re in one spot, but at motocross, you buy a ticket, you get in the gate, and you can go wherever you want,” Schutte explained. “Along the fence lines, you’re so close

to the action, you could almost reach out and touch the racers.”

Other popular locations along the nearly 2-mile track include “LaRocco’s Leap,” “The Ski Jump” and, of course, the starting line.

“You can stand by LaRocco’s Leap, the largest jump in pro motocross racing in the world. Or, you can go stand by the start, where 40 racers line up. It’s a salmon run heading into a bottleneck at full speed,” Schutte said. “The crowd also gathers at The Ski Jump, where riders fly

place on July 5, there will be amateur races taking place every day from July 3 through July 6, and those who would like to get involved in motocross can learn some of the tricks of the trade on July 2 at the –Pat Schutte Ricky Carmichael University (RCU).

“It’s a day-long instrucmore than 100 feet through forms of racing can get a tional camp for little guys the air. Or, you can go to little boring for kids, but all the way up to old guys,” any point in between.” this is actually thrilling for Schutte explained.

Those descriptions alone the entire family,” Schutte “Carmichael brings in a should provide a good clue said. “The sport of motobunch of professional racas to the level of excitement cross combines the tradiers. A lot of kids will come involved in watching this tional ‘man and machine out for that on July 2.” kind of racing.

Unlike many other venversus the elements’ with “The neat thing is, some the more recent phenomeues, RedBud allows spectators to bring in their own coolers. However, glass containers and pets are prohibited. There will also be food vendors on the premises.

“They have vendors who’ve been coming there for decades,” Schutte said.

“It’s the best carnival food you’ve ever dreamed of!”

Whether you’re interested in getting involved in an exciting sport by attending RCU, or you just want to see some amazing airborne feats, RedBud would be a great place to check out over the Fourth of July weekend.

“Anybody who’s into motors, gas and gravity is a natural for what goes on at RedBud on the Fourth of July weekend and has been for 41 years,” Schutte said.

Tickets and more information about the weekend’s events and registration for RCU can be found at www.redbudmx.com.

Submitted photos/LISSA MARSOLEK The track can also be Buchanan’s RedBud Motocross expects 36,000 people to attend the races there this Fourth reached by phone at (269) of July weekend.

695-6405.

The best riders in the world are at RedBud on the Fourth of July weekend.

non of the X-Games and big-air jumps.”

Rather than simply travelling around the track, lap after lap, riders perform all sorts of acrobatic maneuvers on their bikes as they battle to be first to the finish line.

“NASCAR, Indy, NHRA—those are all ‘rubber on the ground’ events, but motocross is ‘rubber in the air,’” Schutte said.

“There are certain areas on the track where the riders spend more time in the air than they do on their bikes.”

While the pro races take

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014 • Page 3

SPOTLIGHT

The Sky's the Limit

Fireworks displays set to light up Michiana

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

All are welcome to worship with us.

M

I CH I ANA — “ I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

So wrote John Adams in a letter to his wife, Abigail, on July 3, 1776.

According to the National Parks Service, the day Adams referred to was actually July 2—the day on which the Second Continental Congress resolved to separate from Britain.

However, it was not until July 4 that the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

Thus, the “Fourth of July” became synonymous with “Independence Day.” Ever since, Americans have been celebrating in the way that Adams imagined, and here are some of the events that will be taking place in Michiana this year.

June 29 Sister Lakes, MI will hold its Bigfoot 4th of July Parade on June 29. Line-up will be at the Sister Lakes Lions Park at 4 p.m., and the parade will begin at 5 p.m. Visit www.sisterlakesmi.com for more information. The Sister Lakes Lions Fireworks Display will take place at dusk at the grounds of the Lions

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

RECYCLE Submitted photo

Shadowland Pavilion will host the SMSO’s Fourth of July Concert in St. Joseph.

Clubhouse, 66991 95th Ave., Dowagiac.

South Bend, IN will have a fireworks display as a part of the 4H Fair at dusk at the Fairgrounds, 5117 Ironwood Rd., South Bend. Call (574) 291-4870 or visit www.4hfair.com for more information.

4030 or visit www.smso. org.

Niles, MI will have an evening of family fun starting at 6 p.m. at the Four Flags Area Apple Festival Fairgrounds, 1740 Lake Street, Niles. Activities will include live music, kiddie bounce houses, vendors, craft projects for chilJuly 3 dren and games. Fireworks Baroda, MI will have its will take place at dusk. fireworks display at dusk at the Baroda American July 4 Legion Post 345, 9214 1st Cassopolis will have its St., Baroda. fireworks display at 10:15 Dowagiac, MI will have p.m. at Diamond Lake, its fireworks display at dusk Shore Acres Rd., at Russom Park, 28776 Yaw Cassopolis.

St., Dowagiac.

Eau Claire will have its New Buffalo, MI will fireworks display at 10 have its fireworks display at p.m. as a part of the Cherry dusk at New Buffalo Beach, Festival at Veterans Park, 100 Marquette Dr., New at the corner of Main St. Buffalo. The Southwest and Second St., Eau Claire.

Michigan Symphony Lakeside, MI will have Orchestra will present a free a parade starting at 12 p.m. beach concert, sponsored by at the lake end of Pier St. the Pokagon Fund, at 8:30 Marchers should just show p.m. at Lions Pavilion Park. up, and they will be welDoors open at 6 p.m. The comed to be a part of the concert will conclude with a parade. All ages are welhuge finale with the fire- come this year. Viewing works display to accompa- will take place on Pier St. A ny the Symphony. For more community sing of patriotinformation, contact the ic songs will be held in the Symphony at (269) 982- park following the parade.

For more information, visit www.thelakesideassociation.org.

Mishawaka, IN will have its fireworks display at dusk at Robert C. Beutter Park, 400 N. Spring St., Mishawaka.

St. Joseph, MI will have its fireworks display at dusk, with fireworks being shot off the North Pier in St. Joseph. The Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra will present a concert at Shadowland Pavilion at 9 pm on July 4. The concert will conclude with a huge finale with the fireworks display to accompany the Symphony. Tickets to the concert start at $15.

Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, contact the Symphony at 269-9824030 or visit www.smso.org.

The South Bend Silverhawks (South Bend, IN) will have a fireworks display at dusk after the game, weather permitting.

Four Winds Field, 501 W. South St., South Bend. Call (574) 235-9988 or visit www.southbend.silverhawks.milb.com/index. jsp?sid=t550 for more information.

YOUR PAPER

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

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

Michael Caldwell Publisher (269) 687-7700

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michael.caldwell@leaderpub.com

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Rhonda Rauen Accounting Manager (269) 687-7711 rhonda.rauen@leaderpub.com

I

clean, plant-based diet or even if you’re just watching what you eat.

With about a week to prepare your holiday menu, I wanted to offer up some of my vegan summer staples. I’ve put together some easy and delicious recipes for your own veggie burger, potato salad, and baked beans.

The black bean burger recipe is SO simple and freezes really well. I almost always have them in my freezer in the summer so I can run to party last minute and not worry about starving. You can find the recipe in the New Chicago Diner Cookbook, or on eHow.com at:

donna.knight@leaderpub.com

Sherina Gonzalez (269) 687-7728 sherina.gonzalez@leaderpub.com

Phil Langer (269) 687-7725 phil.langer@leaderpub.com

Jenny Yarbrough (269) 687-7726 jenny.yarbrough@leaderpub.com

www.OffTheWater.com

Fire up these Cookout Classics t seems like just a minute ago it was winter and now all of a sudden Fourth of July is next week. Summer is in full swing and with that comes BBQs, beach bonfires, parties, cookouts, boating excursions and the like. I think it’s safe to say that the typical menu for these American summer pastime parties typically consists of the following: burgers, hot dogs (or brats, or something like that), baked beans, potato salad, green beans, maybe a salad, corn on the cob, chips and dips, ice cream, and maybe fruit.

Heading to an impromptu or even planned cookout can be tough if you’re trying to stick to a

Sales Donna Knight Classifieds (269) 687-7717

http://www.ehow.com/video_12328947_veggie-burger-recipes-freezing.html.

The video for the vegan baked beans is available on eHow as well in the same video series as the burger, but I will list it below. A video for the potato salad is coming soon to my YouTube channel, and you can always search my column archive at offthewater.com and katshotcakes. com to find a range of seasonal desserts including Strawberry Shortcake sans eggs.

Happy, healthy, holiday everyone! Do it right with some home-cooking.

See RECIPES page 7

COLUMNIST

Kat Barry Kat's Hot Talk

Page 4 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

GET OUT!

Serenity and Seclusion by the Shore

Hagar Park Beach beautiful beaches in America, every area resident seems to have a favorite, go-to lakeside spot.

AGAR TOWNSHIP— Whether it’s St. Living so close to Joseph’s Silver Beach, some of the most Bridgman’s Weko Beach,

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

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or New Buffalo Beach, residents are never far from a popular place where they can enjoy the white sands and blue waters of Lake Michigan.

However, there are plenty of other, lesserknown beaches tucked in along the shoreline from Northern Berrien County down to the state line, and each one of them has its own personality and amenities.

Hagar Beach is one such hidden gem.

Located in the “Lake Michigan Beach” area of Hagar Township on M-63, Hagar Beach is a small, secluded beach surrounded by dense woodlands.

While the beachfront area at Hagar Park is not very long, it is clean, and relatively few people know about it, making it a quiet place to enjoy the lake.

Furthermore, while signs delineate the boundaries of the public beach, they also note that visitors are welcome to continue walking down the shoreline.

“We really like this beach. We didn’t know about this one for a long time until somebody told us about it. It’s a little bit easier to get to,” said John Contreras, a resident of Alsop, Illinois, who was enjoying Hagar Park with his wife and three small daughters last week.

Dedicated fans of the Hagar Shores area and the KOA campground, the Contreras family has been spending their vacation time in northern Berrien County for the last four years.

“We used to go to the beach at Van Buren,” John explained. “It’s a little further out of the way, and it seemed like it was harder to get to. There, you’ve got to walk a long way from the parking lot.”

In contrast, the beach at Hagar Park is just a short distance from the parking lot, and it is accessible by a wooden stairway.

“The stairs are easier for the kids to get down and back up,” said Maggie Contreras, John’s wife.

“Here, you just go down the stairs, and you’re right there on the water.”

Another draw for the Contreras family is the playground at Hagar Park.

“The kids love playing in the park,” Maggie said.

Located next to a paved parking lot, the fenced-in playground includes a newer jungle gym with slides and a swing set.

Port-a-potties are available in that area of Hagar Park as well.

There is also a shady picnic area with grills where visitors can cook up some of their summer favorites. Open fires, however, are prohibited.

Another unusual aspect of Hagar Park is that leashed dogs are permitted at that beach. Pet waste bags are provided as well so that pet owners can clean up after their dogs, helping to keep the beach clean.

That arrangement seems to be working out well since, as John noted, “It’s very clean.”

If you are looking for a secluded beach where you can spend the day, whether it’s with your kids or your pet, Hagar Beach might be the place for you. However, it is important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty at that beach.

The park is open from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. daily, and more information about Hagar Park can be found at the Hagar Township website, www. hagartownship.org.

“I think it’s nice, very nice,” John said. “We love it.”

Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

Although it’s small, Hagar Park Beach offers the same white sands as more popular local beaches — minus the crowds.

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014 • Page 5

CUISINE SCENE

Support Local Agriculture Farm stand map makes it simple to shop local

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

b

a rod a — I t ’ s always great to be travelling down a country road in the middle of summer and spy a farm stand selling fresh, local produce. It’s even better if one of these farm stands is on a route you commonly travel.

But what if there were a better way, a way where you could frequent the farm stands in the area with the same regularity you frequent your local supermarket—a way that you could plan out and do the bulk of your food shopping from local farmers?

Well, thanks to Support Local Agriculture, there is.

Originally started as a nonprofit in 2008, Bill and Greta Hurst, owners of Tabula Rasa Gallery, took over the administration of Support Local Agriculture in 2011.

The mission of Support Local Agriculture is “To support Agri-Tourism in Southwest Michigan through art, education and food.”

As both a website— www.suportlocalagriculture.com—and as a hardcopy guide that can be kept in a glove box, Support Local Agriculture (SLA) provides local consumers with a map of 32 farm stands in Berrien County.

Farmers pay a small annual fee to be included in the guide that is distributed to consumers for free. With a yearly circulation of between 5,000 and 7,000 copies, the guide is updated

Submitted photo/Bill Hurst, Tabula Rasa Gallery

Farm stands in Berrien County sell everything from locally-produced fruits and vegetables to homegrown flowers and fibers. each May. Now in its fourth edition, SLA includes contact information for the different farms, as well as information about the crops they sell and the seasons when those crops are available.

Many listings also include web addresses or Facebook pages that customers can visit to learn more about the farms and their products.

Noting that “Berrien County is a magical place for agriculture,” Support Local Agriculture seeks to promote the fact that “Southwest Michigan leads the world in non-citrus fruit production and 70% of the crop diversity in the United States grows in Berrien County.”

The Hursts hope “that many folks will see our map and try new farm stands with exciting fresh produce, grass-fed meats,

flowers, fiber, and eggs.”

Beyond simply providing a way for local consumers to access fresh food, farm stands provide a way for customers to reconnect with the folks who are actually growing their food—an uncommon opportunity in a nation that has become so shaped by giant agribusinesses.

“I just love visiting farm stands,” said Susan K. Johnston, who specializes in nature photography.

“The people are always so nice and excited that you are there.”

If you’d like to have your own copy of the guide, you can download it from the website or pick up a copy at Tabula Rasa, located at 8918 First St. in Baroda.

Guides can also be found at local farmers markets and participating fruit

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Page 6 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

ON DISPLAY

Showcasing Berrien’s Beauty and Bounty

Susan Johnston to paint Tabula Rasa with “Nature’s Palette”

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

b

aroda—Situated deep in the heart of wine country, there seems to be no more natural place than Tabula Rasa Gallery for a photography exhibit that celebrates the beauty and the bounty of Berrien County.

As gallery owner Great Hurst noted, “There are 12 wineries, 2 breweries and a distillery within a 15-mile radius of Baroda. As the only gallery in wine country, it’s sort of a mandate to showcase the beauty of the area.”

That is something the boutique gallery has been doing for nearly three years now.

“Greta and Bill Hurst are true supporters of local agriculture and boosters of Baroda,” said photographer Susan K. Johnston.

For that reason, Tabula Rasa will soon be showcasing Johnston’s photographs of fruit, vegetables, flowers and Lake Michigan in a show entitled “Nature’s Palette.”

Photographs by Bill Hurst and art glass creations by Greta Hurst will also be on display, and

Tabula Rasa’s unique selection of local and artisanal foods will also be available for visitors to purchase.

With the show opening on July 4 and running through July 27, Johnston’s photographs will be on display at the same time that the earth’s vibrant colors will be on exhibit in surrounding farmers’ fields and markets.

“I wanted to do the exhibit in July because that’s when everything is busting out,” Johnston said. “It focuses on the bodacious colors, all of the vibrant Crayola crayon colors—from the peppers you can get here, to the green beans. It’s eye-popping!”

Having lived in Detroit for many years, serving as the director of process engineering at General Motors, Johnston has an appreciative eye for the beauty of the landscape here, and she still wonders at the ease with which fresh farm produce can be purchased in southwest Michigan.

“Living in Detroit, you can’t get fresh strawberries on the side of the road,” Johnston pointed out.

Now residing in the

Submitted photo/SUSAN JOHNSTON

All of the photographs in Susan Johnston’s upcoming exhibit were taken within a 50-mile radius of her home in Stevensville.

Grand Mere Dunes, Johnston need not travel far to capture the beauty that she seeks.

“All of the photos were taken within a 50-mile radius of my house in Stevensville. This is an incredible region!”

Johnston said. “I wanted to show off the gorgeous

flowers that grow here, the food that grows here, and how can you ignore Lake Michigan?”

Besides creating bright, beautiful photographs, another of Johnston’s passions is sharing those photographs.

“To me, it’s all about sharing,” Johnston said. “If you like what I do, I want

to create something you can afford.”

For that reason, Johnston’s exhibit will provide the majority of art-lovers with the opportunity to own a piece of work by an awardwinning photographer.

“Susan’s price point is very affordable,” Hurst said. “The top end is $225,

and many of her prints are priced in the $60 range.

She will also have her 2015 calendars available.”

Those calendars provide art-lovers with the opportunity to own 12 pieces of local art at a price that’s hard to beat.

“All of the photographs in the desk-sized calendar are local pictures, representing what’s typical of that month,” Johnston said.

“There’s always a place for a pretty picture.”

An artist’s reception is scheduled for July 19 from 3 to 5 p.m.

“It’s a unique opportunity to visit wine country, visit a vineyard and taste some wine, stop by one of the 30-some local farms listed in our agri-tourism guide and come by the gallery,” Hurst said. “We’ll be serving local wines and hors d’oeuvres. We’ll be putting out food from local farms and some samples of the artisanal foods we sell.”

Located at 8918 First St., Tabula Rasa’s regular hours are 12 to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday, and appointments can also be made by calling (269) 422-2642. More information can be found on their website at www.tabularasagallerybaroda.com.

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Off The Water, Michiana

Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014 • Page 7

RECIPES continued from page 3

Jalapeno Potato Salad 2 ½ pounds mixed seasonal potatoes (I LOVE using the purple for this) ½ red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup sliced green onions 2 large jalapenos, or other seasonal hot peppers, finely chopped Dressing: 1 cup Vegenaise 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar + ½ tablespoon organic amber agave nectar A dash celery seed ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon dill ¼ cup fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley Black pepper to taste 1. Wash potatoes carefully. Place in a large stock pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and let boil about 8-10 minutes or until a fork can easily push in potatoes but they are still firm.

2. When potatoes are done rinse with cool water and allow to cool completely before cutting them into 1 inch cubes.

3. While the potatoes are cooking and cooling, chop the other fresh veggies and mix the dressing ingredients together in a small mixing bowl.

4. Place all salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with about 1 ¼ cup dressing.

GRAMMY WINNER PETER FRAMPTON

JIM BELUSHI & THE BOARD OF COMEDY

THE RUSSIAN NATIONAL BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS DON QUIXOTE

Vegan Baked Beans 2 cups dry navy beans, rinsed. Or 4 Cups cooked 1 tablespoon liquid smoke ¼ cup onion, finely chopped ¼ cup molasses 2 teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon dry mustard Black pepper 6 oz tomato paste 1 ½ tablespoons vegan worcestershire 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1. Cook beans for about an hour (or 2) until tender.

Drain and reserve about ¾ cup bean water.

2. Layer beans and onions in a lidded casserole or Le Cruset.

3. Combine remaining ingredients (hot water) in a small sauce pan and bring to a boil. Stir in water and pour over beans and onions.

4. Bake at 375 for about an hour. Stir and enjoy.

Ovens vary, so you may want to cook them longer.

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.

SENEGAL ST. JOSEPH GOSPEL CHOIR THE ACTING COMPANY PRESENTS MARK TWAIN’S A CONNECTICUT YANKEE IN KING ARTHUR’S COURT

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR AND OTHER ERIC CARLE FAVORITES

KATHY MATTEA: SONGS AND THE SEASON

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Thursday, August 7, 2014, 8 p.m.

Saturday, September 27, 2014, 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 11, 2014, 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 25, 2014, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 2, 2014, 4 p.m.

Saturday, November 8, 2014, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Saturday, November 29, 2014, 8 p.m.

Sunday, December 14, 2014, 4 p.m.

Saturday, January 10, 2015, 4 p.m.

Thursday, February 5, 2015, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 14, 2015, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Thursday, February 26, 2015, 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 14, 2015, 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 25, 2015, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Page 8 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

TOURIST FOR A DAY

Off The Water, Michiana

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

Doorway to the past

Oldest church in SW Michigan offers weddings, funerals and a view back in time

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan @leaderpub.com

N

ILES—Whether you are looking for a quaint, historic venue for a wedding or a funeral, or you are simply interested in the history of

southwest Michigan, Smith’s Chapel and the adjoining cemetery should not be overlooked.

With a history that goes back almost as far as that of the State of Michigan itself, the chapel located at 29858 Redfield Rd. offers visitors a view back into the days

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when Methodist Churches were spaced one-week’s horseback-ride apart. That enabled a minister to preach to each of the churches on his circuit at least once a month.

Those days are long past, and now, as Ann Brown, president of the Smith’s Chapel Historical Commission, said, “The chapel is a church of Methodist Heritage.” That means that the Methodist Church is no longer involved with Smith’s Chapel.

Rather, it is owned by Milton Township, and it is listed as both a state and national historical site. In fact, Smith’s Chapel is the oldest church still standing in southwest Michigan.

Having grown up attending the church, Brown has fond memories of the days when her family and their neighbors attended Sunday services there.

“That’s why I got myself to be named the president of the historical preservation group,” Brown explained.

“It was all local people, country farmers. It was our church.”

Built in 1840 with materials and on land donated by Cannon Smith, the chapel still bears the Smith name today.

Brown’s great-great-greatgrandfather, Nicholas Follmer, was one of the men who helped to build the chapel.

“Basically, it was all the people who emigrated from the east and settled in this area. It was called Beardsley Prairie, which covered a lot of territory, because Beardsley owned thousands of acres here,” Brown explained. “Smith emigrated from Delaware. He came out here, and he worked two years for Beardsley, went back, got his family, and they came out here, and they settled here.”

Like Brown’s family, the Smith family continues to have a strong presence in the area around Smith’s Chapel.

“There are a lot of Smiths in this area. In fact, on next Saturday, the 28th, one of the great-great-great-grandkids will be getting married here,” Brown said.

While many of Brown’s family members are buried in the cemetery, as is Cannon Smith himself, none of her family members were ever married in the chapel.

However, Brown now facili-

Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

Ann Brown stands at the door to the chapel that her great-greatgreat-grandfather, Nicholas Follmer, helped to build in 1840. tates its rental for both weddings and funerals.

While funerals can be scheduled by calling Brown at (269) 932-5242, the cemetery is owned by the Smith’s Chapel Cemetery Board, and they must be contacted for the purchase of plots there.

“On average, we do one to two weddings a month.

Generally, our heaviest time for weddings is late August through November,” Brown said. “This year, so far, we’ve had five weddings.

We’ve had several vow renewals as well.”

With wedding rentals priced at $200 and funeral rentals priced at $150, the commission is able to cover the cost of the chapel’s upkeep through its facility rentals.

“We manage to rent it enough that it pays its own bills,” Brown said. “We have a very limited budget, and we just keep it going.”

Even if they are not planning a wedding or a funeral, Brown is happy to open the chapel to those visitors who are simply interested in seeing the building that was renovated by Dale Lyman, beginning in 2005.

“They literally gutted the inside here. Dale numbered every one of these pews. He took them out and stored them at the community center. The stage up front—he took it apart board by board, numbered each one, and put them back in order,” Brown recalled. “The guy is a miracle. It was Dale and two guys who worked for him, and I’m just amazed at how he does things.”

After the restoration of the building, many of the original furnishings were returned to the church, which had sat empty for five years after having closed.

Thus, visitors can see the original storyboard, clock,

pulpit, table and chairs.

Also striking is the age of some of the trees on the grounds of the chapel and the cemetery. According to Brown, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has identified two white pines in the cemetery as being the oldest in southwest Michigan. In addition, two towering oaks on the grounds are reported to be over 300 years old.

Over the course of the year, the historic commission holds several public events, including open houses and a Christmas program that ends with a visit from Santa. Information about those events can be found on their Facebook page at www. facebook.com/smithschapelnilesmi. More information, including Otis Montgomery’s detailed history of the chapel can be found at www.miltontwp. org/SmithsChapel.aspx.

Off The Water, Michiana

General Notices 106 VENDORS WELCOME

Inviting Farmers, Crafters, Small Businesses, & Independent Consultants to join our Shop Local initiative!

Mention this ad for a BOGO FREE Vendor Space Special!

Call Brook @269-927-4467 today for details.

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

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 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

MAINTENANCE PERSON

Seeking a dependable, mechanically inclined person to repair and maintain restaurant equipment and to perform general maintenance. Must have a valid drivers license.

Apply in person at: William F Alford Co Inc 2112 Industrial Dr. Niles, MI 49120 Or forward your resume to:

jessepickens @wmfalfordco.com

WANT A JOB?

20 Open Positions $8.50/Hour Buchanan, MI Call Now!!!

(269) 408-1980

stjosephmi.expresspros.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

CLASS B MILLWRIGHT Steel Warehouse has an exciting position for a Class B Millwright.

Candidate must be able to perform all aspects of maintenance equipment.

This position offers a great career opportunity along with a generous benefit structure.

• Candidate must be able to work on and understand hydraulic systems and be able to fabricate.

• Will perform hands-on industrial maintenance as needed. Must be able to make complex repairs to steel processing equipment and the ability to lead others to completion of said repairs.

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent plus five years’ experience performing installation, repair, and maintenance of mechanical equipment in an industrial setting.

• Must have successful completion of a four year millwright apprenticeship program.

Resumes will go to jobs@steelwarehouse.net

JOURNEYMAN MACHINIST Must be proficient in manual machine tool set-up and operation. Blueprint and welding skills a plus. Please send resume with references to the following address.

Axip Energy Services (Formerly Valerus) 9892 Red Arrow Hwy Bridgman, MI 49106 Attn: Andrea Odell aodell@axip.com

Elderly Care 307 KARE SERVICES

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

LET ME TAKE CARE OF YOU

Experienced single lady would love to take care of an elderly lady or man who is in NEED of help with House Cleaning and Cooking (St. Joseph area). Willing to exchange room, board, and small pay for my services.

I'm loving, faithful to the Lord, and willing to give you my best!

Call Dee at 269-635-2173

Instruction & Training

309

HOMES FOR SALE IN DECATUR

Cassopolis

STONE LAKE MANOR

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. EHO. TDD 1800-649-3777 American Preferred 1-800-968-1792

4068 King Dr., Sodus, MI. Located on quiet dead end street in the heart of wine country, this home is just waiting for you! Updates throughout this 3 bedroom home.

Roof, furnace, windows, well, water heater, electrical, insulation, and more! But if that is not enough sellers are including a 1 year home warranty with an acceptable offer to assure your peace of mind. All appliances also included.

Enjoy quiet evenings on the large front porch, in the spacious backyard or take a walk to the nearby park.

Minutes to the bypass make it convenient to everywhere! Come take a tour today! MLS14029450 Coldwell Banker, RWG Patty Lauten 574-340-4271 269-663-8800

completely remodeled home WHETHER BUYING in the city of Niles, central air $875/month plus seOR SELLING curity deposit, excellent Integrity Real Estate credit & references, no Professionals section 8 (269)621-4724 or would love the opportunity to (269)684-5516 serve you. Call any of our agents for professional Houses for Sale 500 service you expect and deserve.

2 STORY HOUSE 269-684-5030 3 bedroom, 2 car detached Integrity Real Estate garage, utility basement.

Professionals Call (269)683-2940

4 BEDROOM RANCH

in Edwardsburg School District. Built in 2007. Open concept. 2 full baths, 2 half baths.

Full finished basement. 3 car garage. $299,900 Matt and Tonia Petruska (269) 663-2285 tonia.petruska@yahoo.com

PRICE ADJUSTED

Manufactured Homes

502

Niles Westside 4 Bedroom Home Call or Text Chris Moore (269)362-5665 Freedom Realty (269)687-8484

Single mom looking for a home or a 1st time buyer?

Call Mike at (269)470-2995

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, June 29 8am to 4pm 400 Exhibitors Rain or Shine Located at the Fairgrounds, right in Allegan, Michigan $4.00 Admission. No Pets

Consignment

625

Turn your Closet into

CASH

FAMILY HOME, $686/MO!

3 bd/2 bth, 1,456+ sq. ft.

Many updates!

Central air, Skylights Buchanan, 269-695-3119

P.D.K. Firearm Instruction Concealed Pistol License Classes. Contact Paul: 269462-2584 or Kelly: 269783-6570 pdkfirearms.com

HOUSE FOR SALE

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

For Rent 418 LOVELY 3 BEDROOM

See our ad under business opportunities

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

412

1729 Oak St., Niles (269)687-8340 2 Bedrooms Heat, Water, Hot Water & Trash All Paid www.coreleases.com

LEADER PUBLICATIONS ROUTES AVAILABLE NOW HIRING REALTORS

Apartments 2 BEDROOM

RIVER OAK APTS

300

CLASS B MILLWRIGHT Steel Warehouse is hiring.

See our larger ad in today's paper.

Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014 • Page 9

Kids' clothing: newborn to teen, Baby gear & furniture, Maternitywear Accepting Spring & Summer wear 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.

Page 10 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

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 St., Niles.

June 23-July 6

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10 percent of the cost of each meal purchased will be donated to the Memorial Children’s Hospital.

June 26

i

The Southwest Michigan Landlords Association will host a meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Law Enforcement Complex, 1600 Silverbrook, in Niles. Please note that all of our meeting are open to anyone that would like to attend.

Community members do not have to be a member to attend our meetings.

The Downtown Dining Alliance of South Bend (DDA), Downtown South Bend, Inc (DTSB) and Stanz Food Service presents Summer Restaurant Week June 23 through July 6. Downtown South Bend features 15 participating locations that offer June 26-29 either a multiple course meal for $33 per person or a dinner for two for $33, depending on Berrien Springs/Eau location. Approximately Claire will host village-

Off The Water, Michiana

WHAT'S HAPPENING? wide yard sales June June 27 26 – 29. Listings can be found at villageofberriensprings.com and eauclairemi.com the The Krasl Art Center will host an opening party for week of the sales. its newest installation, WAVES, featuring phoJune 27-29 tography and sculpture by contemporary artists Sophia Collier, Jason de Caires Taylor and Sandra Barn Swallow Theatre, Gottlieb. The theme of 22334 US 12 east, Ed- water is continued in the wardsburg, presents artlab gallery in an instal“Always, Patsy Cline.” lation by Suzanne Torres Show times are 7:30 speaking to the mighty p.m. June 27, 2 p.m. power of nature. and 7:30 p.m. June Beach music by Mike Mi28, and 2 p.m. June nestra and friends will be 29. Tickets are $12 for featured in the galleries. adults, $10 for seniors The outdoor patio will be and $8 for children 12 open and wine from Lemand under. To reserve on Creek and beer from tickets, call Carol at Tapistry will be served.

(269) 445-2511. For Both exhibitions remain more info, visit www. on view June 27 - Sept. b a r n s w a l l o w t h e a t r e . 14, 2014 and are free com. and open to the public.

June 28

June 28-29

The New Town Cryers will celebrate 50 years of performance with a special Golden Jubilee Concert at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tom Meldrim and Terry Morlock are instrumentalists, songwriters, and vocalists who were part of the original Town Cryers. Tickets are available online with PayPal at www.boxfactoryforthearts.org/ calendar/#cryers or at the door, and are $10 for general admission; $8 for students and seniors; children 12 and under are admitted for free.

ARTigras: Fine art festival with over 120 artists. A juried fair with prices ranging from $20 up. Downtown New Buffalo, MI. Free admission. www.newbuffalo.org

MICHIANA MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION

Insurance 758 LOWER YOUR INSURANCE RATES!

The Acorn Theater is hosting The Katie Todd Band at 8 p.m. A favorite of Acorn audience members of all ages, during her career Katie Todd has shared the stage with musical legends, including Sarah McLachlan, Patti LaBelle, Steve Winwood, The Wallflowers and TRAIN. Tickets are $20.

CLASSIFIEDs Household Mer642 chandise HUGE SALE AT BILL'S USED APPLIANCES Hours: Mon-Fri. 10a-5pm Sat. 10a-3pm Closed Sunday 2559 S. 11th St. Niles (269) 340-5952

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

Garage-Yard 669 Sales INDOOR YARD SALE

New things in every week at the old Martin's Auction House 6525 M-139 (Old US31) Berrien Springs, MI 10:00am-5:00pm EVERY Thursday, Friday & Saturday Niles - 125 Hatfield

BARN SALE

July 4, 5 & 6, 9-5 horse tack, 15 saddles, 10 show halters, show clothing, chaps, too much to list, antiques, furniture, collectibles, hot tub.

Wanted to Buy BUYING

672

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 30 years of experience, tile work, kitchens, bathrooms, decks & porches, windows & doors, window wrapping, siding, fascia & soffit. Call Randy (269)7823139 (269)208-9838

JDS HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE CUTTING EDGE PRO TREE CARE

Complete Tree Service SAME DAY ESTIMATES Insured, Competitive Rates.

269-687-4972

Pool Service 727 SWIMMING POOL LINERS & REPAIRS

Any size, great prices, all equipment, 35 years experience. Robertson’s Sales & Service, Niles. Call (269)6842669

Appliance Repair FOR SALE

733

We buy, repair & clean up

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, Decks •Property Cleanup •Construction Debris •Farms/Barns •Concrete/Asphalt Removal Demolition Service Available 7 days a week (269)213-1746 Like us on Facebook www.facebook/ A2zrecycling.com

Repairs, Replacement, New appliances, refriSmall Jobs welcome. used Licensed/Insured. Call John gerators, washers, dryers, BRADY CONCRETE gas & electric ranges.

(269)445-7005 Specializing in Flat work of all Geiger Refrigeration Service type, seawalls, stamped concrete & Bobcat Service. Free MK 841 Carberry Rd. Niles estimates. Insured. Fast, de(269)687-8639 9am-5pm C ON S T R UC T I ON pendable service. (269)445735 3349 or (269)591-0100 Pole barn & other garages Tech Services

MIDWEST ROOFING

Family owned since 1984.

Lifetime Warranty Shingles Flat Roofs & Gutter Covers.

Call (269)684-7199

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

WEAVER CONCRETE

And masonry, driveways, porches, patios, tear out/replace, all repairs, brick, block, stone, fireplaces. Will fix wet basements big or small, inside Paving Service 739 and out. All concrete flatMR. MAINTENANCE CONCRETE C & C CONCRETE FREE ESTIMATES From start to finish. work $2.25 sq. ft. LandRoofing, Siding & Windows, Flat work of all kinds, Stamped, flat & dirt work. scaping. Fast dependable sidewalks, Insured (269)663-8091 service. Quality work. Aaron Light Hauling & Spring stamping, (269)655-4158 Clean-Ups, No Inside or concrete patching, patios, Outside job too big or small. driveways and pole barns. CONCRETE SERVICES Patios, Side- Painting Service 754 Low affordable rates. No job too small. Free Driveways, (269)591-1403 Estimates.

Insured walks, and Room Additions.

15 years experience. Call Jay 269-635-4393.

Lawn Service 721 (269)228-1163 specialist. Roofing Siding, CASPER MASONRY COMPUTER REPAIR Framing and more. Over 25 Customer built computers, Brick/ Block/Stone. Custom years experience. Licensed. free estimates. (269)426- & Insurance work. Insured & Bonded. (574)298-3520 Contact Michael N. Knepple 1584 or (269)683-2011 (269)476-9777 COMPLETE

GARDENING WITH INTEGRITY, LLC

HOPPER EXCAVATING "Have Gravel Will Travel"

GLEN'S HAULING & GARDEN TILLING

Driveway, stone, slag, re•Lawn maintenance, repairable scrap and un(269)683-8389. cycled concrete, asphalt, top •Full Landscaping Service wanted vehicles, top dollar Cell (269)340-4233 soil, sand & fill. (269)782• Spring Clean Ups paid. Call or text for a free Topsoil•Stone•Etc. 1744/(269)783-1744 quote today. Free towing. clean beds, preen, mulch, JOE'S DUMP TRUCK trim shrubs, edging, create Recycling Service 743 Kevin (817)437-0450 Sand, Gravel, Top Soil, R/C new beds & much more CA$H 4 JUNKERS Concrete & Asphalt, Bush WE WILL BUY Call Ellen (269)759-1012 Hogging, Land Clearing. your junk car. We haul for (269)635-1143.

725 free. Paying up to $1500 Tree Service joelowery1@gmail.com cash. Please call anytime C & S MARSH joesdumptruck.webs.com 269-687-8098

TREE SERVICE

Home Improve700 ment #1 GUTTERS

All your Masonry needs!

Chimney Cleaning. Insured & Bonded. Senior discounts .

(269)362-1566

Trees, brush, stump removal, high lift work, insured.

(269)362-4331 or 683-1065 leave msg.

DAN'S TREE SERVICE

We do seamless gutters. Excellent Cleanup, Insured.

Free estimates, call Free Estimates. Visa/MC. (269)782-0401 (574)361-9747

Turn that Junker in your yard to cash in your hand 801 Carberry Rd, Niles 269-687-5865

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

Free Estimates.

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

Home - Auto - Health - Life We do the shopping for you!

TCU Insurance Agency Call Deb Asmus today (269) 683-6700 x5901

Horses-Livestock 809 HORSES FOR SALE

All black 14 yr. old mare 15 hand quarter horse with bold ruler bloodlines $4,200. 11 yr. old mare Palo. paint 14 hand safe with kids $2,100.

Tri color paint 8 yr. old filly needs to be finished out $1,800. (574)276-2197 or can be seen day of sale at 125 Hatfield, Niles, MI 49120. July 4-6, 9-5.

Motors, Boating 903 Equipment SHORE STATION

ShoreMaster, Medium size with blue canopy, held 16 ft Tri-hull I/O, On diamond lake. $1400. Call 574-3401684

RVs, Campers, 921 Trailers 1979 CHEVY JAYCO MOTOR HOME

22 ft., all restored, new top air, new interior, shower tub, self-contained, new paint job, new tires & brakes, all fluids & serviced, engine 400 small block. Asking $3,200 or best offer. Call (269)687-8221

Autos for Sale

945

NEED A CAR NOW? WELL WE HAVE THE ONE JUST FOR YOU!!!!

New Arrivals at Cleaning Service 757 Scarlett Auto Sales!

RICK'S POWER WASHING Loaded 2010 Hyundai RVs, homes, decks, farm Elantras equip. & boat docks. Small Low Miles! you can't beat "Integrity - Teach it by example" commercial jobs. Serving that! COLD A/C RUNS GREAT Cass., Dow. & Niles. Free Tax , Title and fees are your KLIMEK Estimates, Senior Dis- down payment $275/mo No ENTERPRISES counts.

Will beat any Interest! No Credit Checks!

Electrical Contracting, No Job competitors estimates. 7979 Deans Hill Rd Berrien Too Big or Small. Free Quotes.

Guaranteed.

Center, MI 49102 Affordable Pricing, Licensed & Satisfaction (269) 461- 4197 or Call 269-470-9507 or 269Insured.

(269)684-6290 470-9498 (269)470-4097.

June 29

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Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014 • Page 11

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

ties include live music, kiddie bounce houses, more vendors, craft projects for children and games. The fun begins at 6 p.m. Donations are encouraged to help continue the event in the future.

ston’s “Nature’s Palette” will be on display at Tabula Rasa Gallery, 8918 First St., Baroda from July 4 through the 27. he artist’s reception will be from 3 to 5 p.m. on July 19th. Photos in this exhibit showcase Southwest Michigan food, flowers and the Lake.

The gallery open Friday Learn about the Frogs, through Sunday from 12Toads and Salamanders 5, or call (269) 422-2642 of Sarett Nature Center for appointment. on July 3 at 3 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults.

July 5

Enjoy free comedy shows every Sunday in June at It’s Vegas Baby! from 7-9 p.m. at Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa, Michigan City, Indiana. It’s Vegas Baby! is a Vegas-themed restaurant and bar. June 29, Comedian Pat McGann, a veteran guest on Chicago talk and sports radio and TV, appears with standup comic James Fritz. All shows are hosted by Mike Toomey, a comedy club veteran who appears daily on the WGN-TV Chi- Round Barn Winery cago Morning Show. throwing a party and rocking out to live music with Alligator Blackbird at 5:30 p.m. and ET and Elephant Rescue at 8:30 The Sister Lakes Fire De- p.m. ET, during Baroda’s partment will be hosting annual fireworks show. a Nelson’s port-a-pit fun- The outside bar will be draiser from 11 a.m. to 5 set up for convenience p.m. on June 29th, 2014. as visitors enjoy live The cost is $6 for a half tunes and the fireworks chicken or $10 for a meal show. $5 entry fee. deal (Chicken, pit-tatoes, side and a drink). There July 3-4 will also be a parade that day with line up beginning at 4 p.m. and the parade at 5 p.m. Once the pa- The Southwest Michigan rade is complete there will Symphony Orchestra will be activities set up at the present its two annual InSister Lakes Lyons club dependence Day beach and at dusk fireworks will concerts starting at 8:30 be held. p.m. July 3 at Lions Pavilion Park in New Buffalo, followed by a performance at Shadowland Pavilion in St. Joseph at Second Wind will pres- 9 p.m. on July 4. Each ent “Mixed Nuts” at the concert will conclude with Acorn Theater at 7 p.m. a finale including a fireThe show features origi- works display accompanal scenes sprinkled with nying the symphony. The improv by the participants July 3rd New Buffalo conof the Second Wind work- cert is free to the public, shop. Cost is free. while tickets to the July 4th St. Joseph concert July 1-6 start at $15. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Independence Celebration, New Buffalo, Michigan. Week is filled with surfing demos, sand castles, outdoor movies, symphony orchestra concert and fireworks! All events are free admission. www. newbuffalo.org.

The Box Factory for the Arts will host The Duo Project with guitarists David Youngman and Derek Brown. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 general admission; $8 students and seniors; children 12 and under free.

Learn about the federally endangered Mitchell Satyr Butterfly at Sarett Nature Center on July 5 at 2 p.m.

Admission is $3 for adults.

July 6

There will be an all-youcan-eat pancake breakfast from 7 a.m. to noon at the Indian Lake Volunteer Fire Department, 33104 M62 West, Dowagiac.

Adults are $6 and children half-price. Carry-out will available. Volunteers will be selling luminaries, and fire department equipment will be open for viewing.

Info: Carol Goodell, (269) 782-5673, or Jean Rowe, (269) 782-2769.

July 4 Kayak the Kalamazoo River with Sarett Nature Center on July 6 at 1 p.m.

The $25 fee includes transportation and all equipment. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register.

Lakeside Michigan has planned a new 4th of July parade for 2014. The parade starts at noon, Michigan time, at the lake end of Pier Street in Lakeside.

Marchers should just July 3 show up and they will be welcomed to be a part of July 7-11 the parade. Parade participants can walk, pull This year, the Four Flags wagons or ride bicycles, Chamber of Commerce but motorized vehilces Curious Kids Museum will is planning an entire eve- are not permitted. host a five-day day camp ning of family fun at the entitled “Reaching For 29th Annual Fireworks July 4-27 The Stars” for children Display and Open Stage ages 7 to 12. Campers will Fun Fest at the Four explore universe as they Flags Area Apple Festival plunge into astronomy.

Fairgrounds, 1740 Lake Award Winning Photog- They will spend time idenSt., in Niles. New activi- rapher Susan K. John- tifying these same con-

i

stellations and their functions that serve people, as well as learn how to use star maps to find constellations in the planetarium sky, and ultimately in the real night sky. Cost is $150 for members and $170 for nonmembers.

concert-goers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs to enjoy the show. Tickets will be available at the Coast Studios at 580 E. Napier Ave. in Benton Harbor and online at www.smoothjazzatsunset.com.

LEGEND

Alcohol

Art

Business

Movies

Community

Theatre

Crafts

Music

Religious

Food

July 11-13

The Twin City Junior Players (TCjP) will perform its the final mainstage production of the 20132014 season, the Tony Award winning drama “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller, directed by Christy Sloan and Lloyd Bolick.

Performance dates are July 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 and 20. Tickets will be $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $7 for children (12 and under). Group rates are also available. All seats are reserved. Reservations can be made by calling the TCP box office at (269) 429-0400. TCP is also offering online ticket purchases for the first time at twincityplayers. org. Performance times are 8 p.m. for Friday and Saturday evening performances and 4 p.m. for Sunday matinees. All performances take place at the Twin City Players Playhouse located at 600 West Glenlord Road in St. Joseph.

July 11 - Aug. 3

On July 12 Isola Jones returns in Isola Jones and Friends, joined on stage by tenor John Concepcion. Tickets at $25 are available online at harborcountryopera.org, at David’s Deli, Michigan Thyme and New Buffalo Savings, or by calling (269) 231-0027.

i

July 13

Information

Tourist

Learn about the federally endangered Mitchell Satyr Butterfly at Sarett Nature Center on July 13 at 2 p.m. Admission is $3.00 for adults.

Nature

Holiday

July 14-17

Parting Shots

Family

$

$

Off The Water, Michiana

At Curious Kids Museum’s “All Aboard” camp, campers will build a Thomas the Train Tanker to play in throughout the week. It’ll be exciting to learn about the different kinds of trains and their functions each day.

We’ll be reading a different train book every day as the campers make fun train crafts to take home. A train parade throughout the museum will delight the campers and guests. Cost is $75 for members and $95 for non-members.

“The Producers” performs in the Wilson Theatre at South Bend Civic Theatre July 11 to Aug. 3, 2014. Performance times are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $21 Fridays, July 14-18 Saturdays, and Sundays and $18 Wednesdays and Thursdays. To purchase tickets call the SBCT Box Curious Kids Museum Office (574) 234-1112 or will host a five-day day go to sbct.org. camp entitled “Abracadabra.” Campers will July 12 spend hours learning how to create magic under the watchful eye of Master Magician, Jazz sensation Jessy J John Dudley. John has will headline the 12th An- been performing magic nual Smooth Jazz at Sun- and comedy for over 39 set concert in conjunction years. Each day throughwith the Krasl Art Fair on out the week they will the Bluff. A limited number learn different tricks — of reserved seats priced culminating in a perforat $30 in advance, $35 mance for family, friends day of show will be avail- and museum guests on able beginning Friday, Friday, July 18, at 11 March 28, as well as gen- a.m. In addition to the eral admission seating, magic activities, daily $25 in advance, $30 day beach play, lunch on the of show. General seating bluff and water play will

Shopping

Sports

Camping

Summer

be taking place during the week. Each camper will be taking home the book by John Dudley, “Magic Tricks To Fool Your Friends,” a magic wand, and tricks to share with others. Cost is $150 for members and $170 for non-members.

i

As part of its Summer Theatre Boot Camp series, Kids On Stage is offering music theatre camp for students going into 1st-10th grade in the fall. The camp will culminate with one performance of Disney’s “101 Dalmatians.” The two-week camp will take place Monday through Friday, July 14-18 and 21-25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “101 Dalmatians” will be performed Friday, July 25 at 6:30 p.m.

Classes will take place at the Kids On Stage Theatre located at the Orchards Mall in Benton Harbor.

Page 12 • Week of June 27 - July 3, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

Riding Shotgun: Phrase started with Wells Fargo

W

hen a youngster runs toward his Mom’s car and calls out “I’m riding shotgun” to his little brother, everybody knows they are calling dibs on the passenger seat. But, in fact, that child is referencing the longstanding history of one of America’s best known brands and companies associated with the taming of the wild West.

Wells Fargo & Co. was founded as a bank on March 18, 1852, and named for its founders, Henry Wells and William Fargo. In July of 1852, Wells Fargo opened for business in San Francisco and Sacramento, California.

Wells Fargo & Company grew its reputation during the years following the Gold Rush. They were first known for the firm’s responsible way of dealing with people’s savings by offering banking and express delivery services.

The image of the horsedrawn stagecoach filled Dr. Lori hosts appraisal events nationwide. She appraised a Wells with gold bars quickly event in Tulsa, Oklahoma. became a symbol of the firm and its services. As part of its business, Wells The stagecoach lines north from Utah to Montana of Wells Fargo’s business, Fargo ran stagecoach lines extended west from and Idaho. While stage the historic vehicles remain from circa 1866 to 1869. Nebraska to California, and coaches were a minor aspect associated with the bank and its role in expanding westward. Both stagecoach drivers and wagon drivers worked for Wells Fargo.

These drivers delivered for Wells Fargo in both towns and cities from the late 1860s until the end of World War I, circa 1918.

Wild West souvenirs associated or marked with the “Wells Fargo” brand (No rain date scheduled) name were popular collectibles in the 1960s such as belt buckles, badges, Bowie knives, brass tags, and stagecoach plates.

Interestingly enough, none of these objects were commissioned or produced by Wells Fargo.

• Music by the Deep Fried In the 1970s, Wells Fargo issued a commemoPickle Project rative belt buckle and a • Bounce Houses commemorative starshaped badge in the man• Food ner of a sheriff’s badge.

They are clearly marked on • Open Mic the back of these collect• Face Painting ible items as “copyrighted

by Wells Fargo and Company.” These collectibles are valued today at $40-$50 retail.

At an event in Tulsa, OK, I appraised a Wells Fargo shotgun and authenFree to the public ticated it for the owner Parking donations welcome whose great grandfather drove stage coaches.

Shotguns marked “Wells Hosted by Fargo” are collectible firearms today. These firearms used by a stage coach drivwww.nilesmi.com er or wagon delivery man

28th Annual Fireworks & Family Fun Fest Thursday, July 3 at 6pm

Apple Festival Grounds 1740 Lake Street • Niles, MI

Join us for the fireworks you love and enjoy all the fun!

Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce

COLUMNIST

Dr. Lori Verderame Arts & Antiques

Submitted photo

Fargo shotgun at her

working for Wells Fargo were not commissioned by Wells Fargo but rather they were purchased by a Wells Fargo agent locally and used by drivers along their delivery route. The guns provided much needed security and protection as the Wells Fargo delivery driver traveled throughout the Wild West.

Wells Fargo shotguns were not distributed from a central headquarters and these antique guns were not inventoried by the home office. Unfortunately, there is no comprehensive list or inventory record of Wells Fargo firearms.

As a result, there are fakes and lots of them.

Period firearms are commonplace and some show attributes where someone has added the famous Wells Fargo name or logo to the gun in an effort to hoodwink a future buyer. There are Wells Fargo shotguns that were purchased by a Wells Fargo agent for use by the Wells Fargo drivers and were property of the firm. These were marked “Wells Fargo,” just as you might mark some item that belonged to you with your name. The Wells Fargo markings on such guns were merely a sign of company ownership.

In addition, other items have been associated with Wells Fargo in the collectibles arena. Common Wells Fargo collectibles

that come to market regularly include: Messenger Wells Fargo employee magazine issues worth $10, Toy Wells Fargo stagecoach wagons worth $15, Wells Fargo exchange certificates dating to the 1860-70s worth $8, and Wells Fargo cast metal wax seals with the Wells Fargo imprint from various western towns worth $250.

Some people have brought silver bars marked “Wells Fargo” and a dollar amount on them to my appraisal events. These are typically contemporary souvenirs. Like the shotguns, these bars were not made by Wells Fargo & Company either. The firm was in the business of shipping 100 lbs. bars of silver nationwide from western mining towns to various locales. The authentic silver bars shipped by Wells Fargo were not marked Wells Fargo but instead were marked with the mine’s name on them.

It is interesting to note that there are Wells Fargo museums in cities throughout America including Minneapolis, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Anchorage, and Charlotte. The museums feature exhibits based on the role that Wells Fargo has played in the expansion of the west, the rise of American commerce, and security in banking from the early 1850s to the present day.

A Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s hit TV show, Auction Kings.

Visit www.DrLoriV.com/ Events, www.Facebook. com/DoctorLori, or call 888-431-1010.