Niles Dowagiac Buchanan Cassopolis Edwardsburg Berrien Springs
Life Made
Simple. The information one would need to fully enjoy living in our region and to provide services or opportunities to make life easier.
2 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Dowagiac Union Schools “Respect, Responsibility, Trust”
•Dowagiac established the first public school from tax dollars west of Detroit in 1840 •The Class of 2012 was the 148th to graduate.
Superintendent Dr. Mark Daniel
Deputy Superintendent Dawn Conner The Board of Education meets the third Monday of each month, City Hall Council Chambers, 7:00 p.m. School Board Members •Mark Dobberstein 27611 Mathews St., Dowagiac 269-782-4177 Term expires: 2012 • Michelle Helmuth 57250 Wilbur Hill Road, Dowagiac 269-591-1176 Term expires: 2013 •Stacy Leversen 29401 Pine Row Trail, Dowagiac 269-782-0717 Term expires: 2012 • Larry Seurynck 55945 Inn-D-Inn, Dowagiac 269-782-2559 Term expires: 2014 • Julia Smith 23705 McKenzie St., Dowagiac 269-783-0991 Term expires: 2014 • Ronda Sullivan 107 Cora Street, Dowagiac 269-783-0349 Term expires: 2015
•Claudia Zebell 51701 Leach Road, Dowagiac 269-424-7701 Term expires: 2015
Patrick Hamilton Elementary School Heather Nash, Principal 614 Spruce Street, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4450 Serves Grades K-5
Union High School 701 W. Prairie Ronde, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4420 Serves Grades 9-12 School Mascot: Chieftains (since 1928) School Colors: Orange and Black Named a Best High School Bronze Medal Winner in 2012 by US News & World Report
Sister Lakes Elementary School Gretchen Hart, Principal 68079 M-152, Benton Harbor General Office: 269-782-4468 Serves Grades K-5
Dowagiac Middle School Matt Severin, Principal 57072 Riverside Drive, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4440 Serves Grades 6-7-8 Justus Gage Elementary School Marcy Hendress, Principal 301 Oak Street, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4460 Serves Grades K-5 Kincheloe Elementary School 25121 Gage Street, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4464 Serves Grades K-5
Dowagiac Union Schools 243 S. Front Street Dowagiac, Michigan 269-782-4400 www.dowagiacschools.org
Pathfinders Alternative/Adult Education 501 N. Paul Street, Dowagiac General Office: 269-782-4471 Serves Grades 7-12 & GED Technology Randy Gross, Director General Office: 269-782-4477 Athletics Brent Nate, Athletic Director General Office: 269-782-4470 Maintenance/Facilities Dave Daniels, Director General Office: 269-782-4480 Transportation Kevin Kelm, Supervisor General Office: 269-782-4482
DID YOU KNOW...
• Student Achievement is our #1 Priority • Full implementation for Reading Recovery • Academic Progress is measured by the NWEA tests in the areas of language, math and reading • Full Day Kindergarten • Great Start Readiness Early Childhood Program • Each elementary building offers art, music, and physical education programs • All teachers are Highly Qualified under the Federal No Child Left Behind requirements • Active athletic and fine arts programs • Vocational opportunities at Van Buren Tech Center • Alternative Ed and Adult Ed opportunities • 759 college credit hours were earned as part of dual enrollment in 2011-12 with Southwestern Michigan College saving parents a total of $104,173 in tuition costs •100% of the Class of 2012 plan for definite post-secondary education after graduation • The Class of 2012 earned a total of $643,936 in scholarships • The Dowagiac Board of Education, Administration, Staff, Parents, and Community are engaged in a Strategic Planning Process to ensure the quality of our school district for the future • Students have an opportunity to interact with world renowned artists and authors during the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival
June 2012 • 3
Life Made Simple
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BERRIEN SPRINGS
EDWARDSBURG page 30
page 5
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: TANDA STIFFLER page 30
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: JESSICA SNIVELY page 5
photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
BUCHANAN page 9
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: JERRY FLENAR page 9
photo/JOHN EBY
photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
CASSOPOLIS page 13
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: CAROL BENJAMIN page 15
photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
NILES
page 40 MAKING A DIFFERENCE: SCOTT CROUCH page 40
NILES TOWNSHIP
photo/JOHN EBY
page 52
DOWAGIAC page 19
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: HALEY ROBBINS page 19 photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
COVER PHOTO: McCoy Pond Park, Buchanan. Leader Publications cover design and photo/ANDREA SCHUENEMAN
4 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
TABLE OF CONTENTS: BEST-KEPT SECRETS
weekend New Buffalo/ Three Oaks PAGE 55
Lemon Creek Fabrics
History Center at Courthouse Square
PAGE 8
PAGE 38
Old Rugged Cross Church
El Amigo Pepe
PAGE 21
PAGE 47
Eddie Museum PAGE 26
Coloma/ Watervliet PAGE 58
Bridgman PAGE 59
South Bend/ Mishawaka/ Granger PAGE 60
Fun For Kids
CANOE & KAYAK
THE HISTORIC & BEAUTIFUL DOWAGIAC RIVER
DOE-WAH-JACK’S
M-51 North, Dowagiac, MI Call for Reservations (888) 782-7410 • www.paddledcri.com
Cranberry Lake Campground Day Camp • Challenge Ropes Course Retreat Lodging • Hayrides • Low Ropes Initiatives Activity Center • Youth Program “Five Pines Live” Winter Activities - Tubing and Cross-Country Skiing
6597 Smith Rd • Berrien Center, MI (269) 471-1396
www.fivepines.org Visit us on Facebook
• Seasonal Sites Available • Great Fishing • Boat Rental & Launch (269) 646-3336 www.campcranberrylake.com
Life Made Simple
BERRIEN SPRINGS
GOVERNMENT
112 N. Cass St., Berrien Springs Phone: (269) 473-1188 Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m.
BERRIEN COUNTY FAIR
Aug. 13-18 9122 Old U.S. 31, Berrien Springs, Mich. www.bcyf.org (269) 473-4251 Midway, 4-H events, vendors, circus, truck and tractor pull, Bullmania featuring bull riding, motocross and grandstand headliners Justin Moore and Bret Michaels.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Population: 1,862 Race: White: 77.12 percent African-American: 11.06 percent Hispanic/Latino: 8.92 percent Median household income: $32,396
CLINIC
Lakeland Ear, Nose and Throat 9045 U.S. 31 Suite 3 Berrien Springs, MI 49103 Phone: (269) 471-9702 Fax: (269) 471-9707
LEGISLATORS
Steven Pscholka, R-Stevensville, state representative for District 79, N-1098 House Office Building P.O. Box 30014, Lansing, MI 48933, (888) 656-0079, AlPscholka@house.mi.gov. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building,
Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov.
20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov.
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov.
Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C.
LIBRARY
Berrien Springs Community Library 215 West Union St. Berrien Springs (269) 471-7074
MAKING
A
June 2012 • 5
PARKS
n Wolf’s Prairie Park, South Cass Street — Playground, picnic facilities, waterfront of Lake Chapin/Berrien Springs Hydro Electric Dam n Love Creek Nature Center, 9292 Huckleberry Rd., Berrien Springs — Trails for hiking, cross-country skiing and biking, naturalist service center offering natural history programs continued on page 7
D I F F E R E N C E:
JESSICA
S N IV E LY
By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
A ndrews University Academy student Jessica Snively spent a good portion of last summer teaching children about architecture at the Berrien Springs university’s Renaissance Kids camp Snively says she loves architecture and giving back to the community, so volunteering at the camp was the perfect fit for the South Bend resident. “There is so many people in my life who have helped me get through things and attain goals, and I feel like helping out in the community is a way to show my appreciation,” Snively said. “I want to help make someone’s life and little more joyful and, if possible, improve it.” Snively is also involved with the university’s church, where she volunteers at the children’s library and plays guitar during daily chapel ser-
Submitted photo
Andrews University Academy student Jessica Snively, second from the right in the back, helped teach this group of students involved in the university’s Renaissance Kids Camp. vices. Snively has been playing guitar in the song service for the past three years. “I love playing, and it’s another way for me to help,” she said. Snively, who will be a senior next year, also acts as a representative for her class at Andrews Academy, where she attends class government meetings and plans student activities, which occur throughout the school
year. Snively is looking forward to teaching the next round of children coming through Andrews University’s Renaissance Kids camp, which runs from June through July. Snively took part in the camp as a sophomore. When she was too old to attend, the university created a volunteer position for her. “It’s a lot of fun,” Snively said.
6 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
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June 2012 • 7
Life Made Simple continued from page 5
PARKS CONT.
n Berrien Springs Recreation Dept., 1 Sylvester Rd., Berrien Springs
POLICE AND FIRE
Village of Berrien Springs Police: (269) 471-2813 Fire: (269) 471-7759
SCHOOLS
Berrien Springs Public Schools One Sylvester Ave., Berrien Springs Contact: 269-471-2891, homeoftheshamrocks.org Berrien Regional Education Service Agency 711 St. Joseph Ave., Berrien Springs Contact: 269-471-7725, berrienresa.org
SENIOR CENTER
Central County Senior Center 4083 East Shawnee Rd. (269) 471-2017
UTILITIES
Department of Public Works (269) 473-6921 Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.semcoenergygas. com
Berrien County Fair draws horse lovers from the region. Leader Publications file photo
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 (800) 492-5989 Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com
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8 • June 2012
BEST-KEPT SECRET
Life Made Simple
in southwest Michigan: Lemon Creek Fabrics
By KATE STONE Leader Publications
In an age where large companies
rule the business world, Lemon Creek Fabrics, a small mom-andpop store in downtown Berrien Springs, continues to thrive. Judi and John Dougan, both in their mid-60s, have been running Lemon Creek Fabrics for 19 years. “I was teaching pottery at Andrews University when I suffered from a herniated disc,” Judi said. “ John then suggested we open a store, and things just fell into place.” John has a background in business, while Judi has experience with garment design. “It was an easy transition from garment to interior design,” Judi said. “You just have to find a source or a channel where the excess goods are coming from clearing houses. It’s a matter of contacts. I’ve been blessed with great contacts.” Fabric supplies come from many locations for a variety of reasons. If a company orders fabric and it arrives too late, the company will then sell it at a much cheaper cost. Fabric is also resold if a company ordered too many rolls, or simply just had leftover materials. Since the Dougans are able to purchase their supplies at a lower cost, they can also sell at a lower cost. The fabrics sold at Lemon Creek Fabrics are 50 to 90 percent off retail price, which greatly benefits both the buyer and the seller. “If you want to get into business, you have to find something people need,” Judi said. “If you do something well, especially if it is unique, people will come to
you. The world comes to us.” Lemon Creek Fabrics sells high-end goods, most of which could only otherwise be found at a market. The Dougans take pride in the quality and variety of their fabrics as well as the service they provide to the consumers. Lemon Creek Fabrics not only provides goods and services to local customers, but also to textile artists countrywide. Commercial sales make up 40 percent of their business, while the remaining 60 percent comes from retail clients from Chicago, Lake Michigan and surrounding lake residents and visitors and the loJohn and Judi Dugan have run cal population. It is a homegrown Lemon Creek Fabrics in Berrien store with only one location, on Springs for 19 years. The store is Ferry Street in Berrien Springs. Even though it is a business, popular for its wide slection of the Dougans act as if their store high-end fabrics. Commercial were merely a hobby of theirs. “We like to have fun,” Judi sales account for 40 percent of said. “Customers come in and its business. they play with the fabrics. I can be upstairs when I hear the bell and one of my regulars will say, Lemon Creek Fabrics is located ‘Don’t bother coming down. I’m just going to play around for a at 119 West Ferry St., Berrien bit.’ I really enjoy helping people Springs. Call (269) 473-2201. make their homes beautiful. “ This relaxed and happy enviLeader Publications file photos ronment creates a calm atmosphere that assures visitors that “We enjoy what we do and we the Dougans are friendly people have no plans for retirement,” who will spend two hours help- Judi said. “We’re having too ing a single customer. much fun.”
June 2012 • 9
Life Made Simple
UTILITIES
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com
GOVERNMENT
City of Buchanan 302 North Redbud Trail, Buchanan, MI 49107 (269) 695-3844 www.cityofbuchanan.com The city commission meets the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. at city hall.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Buchanan: Population: 4,681 Race: White: 86.26 percent African-American: 10.23 percent Hispanic/Latino: 1.84 percent
FARMERS’ MARKET
Buchanan Farmers’ Market 112 Days Ave., Buchanan 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday
LEGISLATORS
Sharon Tyler, R-Niles, state representative for District 78, Office Phone: (888) 373-0078, Mail: 1097 Anderson House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48909, Email: sharontyler@house.mi. gov. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov.
BUCHANAN
U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov.
Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
LIBRARY
Buchanan District Library 128 E. Front St. (269) 695-3681 www.buchananlibrary.org
PARKS
n Kathryn Park, 4th and Moccasin streets — Playground n McCoy Creek Park, off of Smith Street — Softball/baseball fields, playground, picnic facilities, shelter available for rent n McCoy Pond Park, Red Bud Trail and Front Street n Veteran’s Memorial, picnic facilities, access to McCoy Creek n Old City Hall Park, Oak and Front streets — Gardens, home of Arbor Day — Celebrations each April n Victory Park, Victory and
MAKING
A
JERRY By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
For the past 30 years, Jerry Flenar has devoted much of his time to making his hometown of Buchanan a better place to live. The 64-year-old has held almost every office in the Buchanan Lions Club, of which he has been a member for 27 years. He volunteers with the Buchanan Garden Club, is a Friend of Oak Ridge Cemetery and a member of the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce. He served on the Buchanan Board of Education for 13 years, including 10 as president. He is also president of the Buchanan Buckteens Reunion, a class reunion for 40plus year graduates of Buchanan High School. If there is a community service project out there,
Arctic streets — Basketball court, play equipment, benches
POLICE AND FIRE City of Buchanan Police: (269) 695-5120 Fire: (269) 695-5592
HOT SPOT EATERY
Wheatberry Restaurant and Tavern 15212 N. Red Bud Trail (269) 697-0043 Known for its selection of micro brews, baby back ribs continued on page 12
D I F F E R E N C E: FLENAR
chances are Flenar has done it. “I just think Buchanan is a great town,” said Flenar, a 1965 graduate. “It has been good to me and my family and we believe we should give something back to it.” Flenar is a recipient of the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteering. He is most proud of his work with the Lions Club, including purchasing a wheelchair and service dog for two needy kids. He has also enjoyed facilitating the Buchanan Buckteens Reunion, which takes place on the second Sunday in June at the high school. About 480 people attend the reunion a year ago, up from 460 the year prior. “It is probably one of the most worthwhile things,” he said. “You get to see people you
Submitted photo
Longtime Buchanan resident Jerry Flenar kneels with his grandson, Adam Flenar. haven’t seen in a long time. A lot of memories are shared.” Flenar said Buchanan has been a great place for him and his wife, LeeAnn, to raise their two children. He is determined to help keep it that way. “I am going to continue to volunteer as long as I can,” Flenar said.
10 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Buchanan Farmers’ Market
Open Saturdays May through October 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Located Downtown Buchanan
The Common
“Stop, Lunch & Listen” plays put on during the noon-hour throughout the summer.
Tin Shop Theatre
“Peter Pan and Wendy” Adapted by Doug Rand Beginning July 27
The Great Ice Cream Scheme
By Billy St. John Beginning Sept. 8
The Buchanan Farmers’ Market. Find your favorite fresh produce, breads & specialty products Downtown Buchanan Every Saturday May thru October 8 am - 1 pm on the Buchanan Common Grounds
Specially Designed 1 Bedroom Apartments For Seniors and Disabled Persons Office Hours: Mon-Fri 12:30pm - 5:00pm
Mill Pond Apartments
800 E. Smith St., Buchanan • (269) 695-0475 Rent Based on Income • TDD: (800) 649-3777 Centrally located within walking distance of shopping, banking and medical offices. Furnished with major appliances and fully carpeted. Laundry in each building. Community room available for residents to gather and relax.
June 2012 • 11
Life Made Simple
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Smallwood InSurance ralph l. Smallwood Securities offered through MidAmerica Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC www.mfsinvest.com 1007 East 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 888-526-2001
Office (269) 684-7825 Fax (269) 687-1004 1147 Huntly Road Niles, MI 49120
12 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
curious kids’ museum
Discovery Zone by Curious Kids’ Museum www.curiouskidsmuseum.org On the Bluff (269) 983-2543 Lake Boulevard St. Joseph, MI 49085
Leader Publications photo/CARLA COLE
Buchanan’s Thrill on the Hill was a hit during the height of winter. SCHOOLS
Buchanan Community Schools 401 W. Chicago St., Buchanan (269) 695-8400 www.buchananschools.com
SENIOR CENTER
Buchanan Area Senior Center 810 Rynearson (269) 695-7119
At Silver Beach
(269) 982-8500
333 Broad Street St. Joseph, MI 49085
UTILITIES
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com
Municipal Utilities Department of Public Works Located: 302 North Redbud Trail, Buchanan Phone: (269) 695-3844 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Website: www.cityofbuchanan.com Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.semcoenergygas.com
Worship
Faith be your Guide
Let Please join us for worship...
hopeofniles.com
Saturday 6pm
hoo
Sunday 9 & 10:30am
COMMUNITY
CHURCH
2390 Lake Street - Niles
...we’ll save you a seat
Life Made Simple
GOVERNMENT
Village of Cassopolis 117 South Broadway, second floor-suite 100, Cassopolis, MI 49031 Phone: (269) 445-8648; fax, (269) 445-2052. Council meets the second Monday at 7 p.m.
CASS COUNTY FAIR
July 29 through Aug. 4 590 N. O’Keefe St., Cassopolis, Mich. www.casscountymifair.com Midway, 4-H events, vendors, supercross, parade, pickup truck
CASSOPOLIS
June 2012 • 13
and semi pulls, demolition derby, rodeo, firefighter show and more.
DEMOGRAPHICS
n Population: 1,740 n Race: — White: 54.6 percent — African-American: 32.59 percent — Hispanic/Latino: 2.18 percent n Median household income: $28,696 continued on page 14
Local children participate in the Memorial Day service.
Leader Publications photo/KATIE ROHMAN
Food and Fun
(269) 782-7908 Silver Creek Plaza Dowagiac
• Carnival Rides • Food Vendors • Arts & Crafts on Saturday & Sunday with over 190 booths • Parades • Contests • Free Entertainment • And much, much MORE for all to enjoy!
www.fourflagsapplefestival.org
• Beer & Wine • Liquor • Milk • Hot Food • Friendly Service
AB090073
Additional locations in Coloma, Benton Harbor, South Haven and Watervliet.
IT’S PARTY TIME
Small Private Parties
14 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Take Our COurse fOr a spin! HolEs 18 Holes (with cart) Weekdays ..................... $24.00 Weekends ...................... $28.00 seniors only (week days) .......................... $20.00
fOursOme speCial
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Weekdays ................... $76.00 Weekends ................... $96.00 Expiration: 8-31-2012 Not valid on Holidays or with other coupon specials
26831 Dutch Settlement • Dowagiac
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QUALITY PETROLEUM DISTRIBUTORS
Quality Petroleum Distributors
604 Water Street, Cassopolis, MI 49031
(269) 445-2441 (800) 424-3885
FARMERS’ MARKET
604 S. Disbrow St., Cassopolis, Mich. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday May through September
HEALTH CARE
Borgress-Lee Internal Medicine and Family Practice 117 South Broadway (269) 445-0771 Cassopolis Family Clinic 109 School St. (269) 445-3874
LEGISLATORS Matt Lori, R-Constantine, state representative for District 59, Office Phone: (877) 262-5959, Mail: N-933 House Office Building, P.O. Box 30014, Lansing, MI 48933, Email: mattlori@ house.mi.gov. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail:
P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov. U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov. Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, MI 48909 continued page 16
June 2012 • 15
Life Made Simple
MAKING
A
CAROL
D I F F E R E N C E: BENJAMIN
By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
Carol Benjamin wants to bring about a positive change in her hometown of Cassopolis. She also wants her 13-year-old son to choose to stay in Cassopolis when he grows up. Benjamin, a member of the Cassopolis Planning Commission, has a few ideas on how to make it happen. She calls her ideas, Cassoportunities. “All the Cassoportunities projects I’ve pulled together have been done in other communities and I am hoping to attract
those who have a passion for one or more of the projects and will jump in and be a doer,” Benjamin said. “What doesn’t work so well is for an individual to try to do it all themself.” There are more than a dozen projects laid out in her Cassoportunities project packet, including the Cassopolis Community Gardens. The gardens are located in a fenced in area on East Street between Johnson Street and Harding Street. She wants it to resemble the successful community gardens project in Niles, and one day get the local schools involved in it.
Leader Publications photo/CRAIG HAUPERT
Carol Benjamin, of the Cassopolis Planning Commission, looks through a fence at the site she hopes will one day be home to the Cassopolis Community Gardens. ‘This year is more about getting it started,” she said. “It may not be a full garden this year, it might be a large pumpkin patch and sunflowers, but something will be done so it is in a better position for next year as more people
get onboard.” Another of Benjamin’s projects involves growing the Cassopolis Farmer’s Market. Benjamin said more farms would need to get involved, including local Community Supported Agriculture operations.
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Annuals Trees and Shrubs Hard to Find Perennials
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16 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
continued from page 14
LIBRARY
Cass District Library 319 M-62 (269) 445-3400
PARKS
n Don Horne Park, off of M-62 — Picnic facilities, restrooms, baseball/softball fields, two small pavilions available for rent n Clisbee Park, off of North Broadway — Playground n Southside Park, S. O’Keefe and M-62 — Picnic facilities, playground n Log Cabin Park, located off of Stone Lake — Observation deck, restrooms
POLICE AND FIRE
Village of Cassopolis Police: (269) 445-8100 Fire: (269) 445-2519
Leader Publications file photo
Ron Bass Park
June 2012 • 17
Life Made Simple Cass County Sheriff’s Department Phone: (269) 445-8644
HOT SPOT EATERY
Tastee Twirl 220 S. Broadway St. (269) 445-3837 Known for cheeseburgers, fries, fish
SCHOOLS
Cassopolis Public Schools 63700 Brick Church Rd., Cassopolis Contact: 269-445-0500, cassopo lis.k12.mi.us Lewis Cass Intermediate School District 61662 Dailey Rd. (269) 445-3891 www.lewiscassisd.org
SENIOR CENTER
Cass County Council on Aging 60525 Decatur Rd. (269) 445-8110 continued page 18
Leader Publications photo
The Pioneer Museum in Cassoppolis helps teach the area’s heritage.
18 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
UTILITIES
continued from page 17
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichigan power.com Municipal Utilities/Trash Residents must sign up through Department of Public Works Cassopolis Village Hall Located: 117 S. Broadway, Suite 100, Cassopolis Phone: (269) 445-8648 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wikepidia.org photo
Downton Cassopolis
Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.semcoenergygas.com
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for the Opportunity” 69001 M62 “Thanks Suite D • Edwardsburg, MI 69001 M62 S uite D • eDwarDSburg, Mi (269) 663-8800 (269) 663-8800
125 S. Broadway Cassopolis, MI 49031 Office: 269/445-2633 Fax: 269/445-8293 Toll Free: 269/545-2633
Life Made Simple
GOVERNMENT
City of Dowagiac 241 S. Front St., Dowagiac Phone: (269) 782-2195 Website: www.cityofdowagiac. com City council meets the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7 p.m.
DEMOGRAPHICS
n Population: 5,879 n Mean travel time to work: 20 minutes n Average household income: $32,020 n Median home value: $83,600 n Race: — White: 73.5 percent — African-American: 14.3 percent — Hispanic/Latino: 5.4 percent n Education: — High school diploma: 77.6 percent — Bachelor’s degree or higher: 9.5 percent n Gender: — Females: 52.4 percent — Males: 47.6 percent
HEALTH CARE
Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital 420 W. High St. (269) 782-8681 Borgess Lee Medical Group Borgess Lee Bone and Joint 420 W. High St. (269) 783-3053 Internal Medicine and Family Practice Outpatient Surgery, Adult WalkIn Clinic 520 Main St., Suite A (269) 783-3052 Pediatrics and Pediatric Walk-In Clinic 520 Main St., Suite C (269) 783-2080 Internal Medicine 400 W. Division St. Dowagiac (269) 782-2111
June 2012 • 19
DOWAGIAC Borgess-Lee Cardiology 420 W. High St. Surgical Services 515 Main St. (269) 782-2273
LEGISLATORS
Sharon Tyler, R-Niles, state representative for District 78, Office Phone: (888) 373-0078, Mail: 1097 Anderson House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48909, Email: sharontyler@house.mi.gov.
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov.
John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov.
MAKING
A
HALEY
U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov. continued page 23
D I F F E R E N C E: ROBBINS
By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
L iving in the United States, most people don’t have to worry about having enough money to buy a pair of shoes. That’s not the reality in many places across the world. That is why Dowagiac graduate Haley Robbins decided to get involved in a program called Soles4Souls. Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from the warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of donors. The charity distributes these shoes to people in need, regardless of race, religion, class or any other criteria. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has delivered more than 17 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes. The shoes have been distributed to people in over 127 countries, including Kenya, Thailand, Nepal and the United States. Robbins collected 84
Submitted photo
Dowagiac student Haley Robbins collected 84 pairs of shoes for a charity program called Soles4Souls. pairs of shoes. “I believe it’s important to get invoked with your community because it gives a great pride in knowing you did something to change someone’s life,” Robbins said. “With me, it gave me the biggest smile when I saw the video of children receiving the shoes. “I enjoy the simple joy that people get when someone else does just
something as little as giving them a pair of shoes.” Robbins, who volunteers with special needs children at the Lawrence Learning Center, did the Soles4Souls project with her class at the Van Buren Technology Center. Robbins, who graduated from Dowagiac High School in June, said people could get involved by visiting the charity’s website at soles4souls.org.
20 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
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Life Made Simple
BEST-KEPT SECRET in southwest Michigan: Old Rugged Cross Church By JOHN EBY john.eby@leaderpub.com
Almost 15 years after buy-
ing Old Rugged Cross Church in Pokagon, Bob and Molly Shaffer can see an end to their odyssey just in time for its 150th anniversary. “We’re not there yet, but we’re getting near the end,” Bob said. Their July 1998 purchase of the former First Methodist Episcopal Church between Dowagiac and Niles — built in 1862 as a hops barn, made into a church in 1876 — led to the formation of The Old Rugged Cross Foundation. ORCF is a multidenominational, nonprofit corporation which owns and manages restoration and operation of the landmark placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Molly spent three years writing a book about their journey, which should be available this fall. The sesquicentennial will be celebrated in September. “The president has agreed to come,” she said. “Abe Lincoln.” People from all over the world have visited the church, which is in close proximity to Andrews University in Berrien Springs. “And yet,” Molly said, “we’ll go to the Cass Fair and meet people who have never heard the story and say we should advertise.”
The original bell, pulpit, pump organ and two pews have been returned. Other pews were reproduced by John Sindelar of Edwardsburg. Dale Layman, a Berrien Springs contractor, replicated the siding.
After years of selling $50 commemorative bricks, $20 calendars, $20 wooden crosses made of interior lath and soliciting gifts up to $10,000 for a project estimated to cost $2 million, she says she doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry. “We’re thrilled people who donated can see their money has been put to good use,” she said, explaining the restoration was done with private funds with no federal or state financial entanglements. The sanctuary, booked for four weddings this year, includes six 12-foot painted leaded-glass windows. There is still work to be done. “We have to put fieldstone around the base,” Molly, 74, said, “and take the metal (roof) off to put back cut-wood shingles. Two years after the Rev. George Bennard of Albion debuted the hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross” during a 1913 revival visit, the building was sold to a farmer who removed the sanctuary floor and moved in livestock. By 1998, its foundation crumbled, sill beams rotted, walls fallen to the ground, roof sagging, windows and bell tower gone, it seemed only overgrown shrubs kept it from collapsing. “It was very well constructed, but the building had moved off of its footing and actually sat on the walls. The trees were actually stabilizing it. It’s not going to fall down now. “We’ve got a 14-inch wall and a fourfoot crawlspace under the entire building. It’s beyond a restoration,” Bob said. The church hosts hymn sings the first Sunday each month, May through December, at 6 p.m.; and concerts are held the third Sunday at 3 p.m.
June 2012 • 21
22 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Dowagiac • Sister Lakes • Cassopolis
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Garage Sale Weekend May 27, 2012
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Sister Lakes Lions Pancake Breakfast May 28, 2012
Memorial Day Parade Thursdays, Beginning May 31, 2012 - Beckwith Park
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Sister Lakes Lions Fireworks July 7, 2012
Lady Lions Craft Bazaar July 21, 2012
Sister Lakes Triathlon & Relay July 26-28, 2012
Summer in the City Sidewalk Sales July 28, 2012
Steve’s Run July 29 - August 4, 2012
Cass County Fair August 18, 2012
Rod & Roll Classic Auto Show
June 2012 • 23
Life Made Simple
For more information on any of these events visit www.dowagiacchamber.com
September 1 & 2, 2012
Kee-Boon-Mein-Kaa Pow Wow September 2, 2012
Sister Lakes Lions Pancake Breakfast September 8, 2012
Big Foot Monster Golf Tournament Week of Halloween
Trunk ‘n Treat
Red Raven GiRls Have MoRe Fun!
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Under the Harvest Moon November 16, 2012
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Dowagiac White Saturday December 7, 2012
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24 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
The sun sets in Dowagiac. Leader Publications photo/ROBERT COOK
A successful play is concluded at a Dowagiac ballfield. Leader Publications photo/LINDA MOSIER
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Life Made Simple continued from page 21Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
LIBRARY
Dowagiac District Library 211 Commercial St. Dowagiac (269) 782-3826
PARKS
n James E. Heddon Park, M-62 East past Colby Street — Picnic facilities, restrooms, boat launch, fishing areas, vehicle and trailer parking, Mill Pond access n Water Tower Park, Clyborn Street, south of East Prairie Ronde — Picnic facilities, benches, playground, basketball courts, horseshoe courts, softball field n Optimist Park, South Front Street, south of Chestnut Street — Access to Dowagiac Creek, fishing areas, pedestrian bridge n Rotary Park, Riverside Drive,
south of Hill Street — Picnic facilities, restrooms, playground, skate park, softball/ baseball fields, hiking, nature and cross-country skiing trails n Rudolphi Wildlife Refuge, entrance on Dailey Road — Parking, nature, hiking and cross-country skiing trails n Walter Ward Park, Cora Street, south of Pokagon Street — Picnic facilities, playground, fields for soccer or football, basketball courts n Northwest Park, Wolf Street, west of North Paul Street — Parking, softball field n Farr Park, West Division Street and Indiana Avenue — Benches n Rudy Park, East Division Street (M-62), past VFW Hall n Burke Park, triangle of Main, North Lowe and Spruce streets n Beckwith Park, downtown Dowagiac, corner of Beeson and South Front streets — Gazebo, benches n Russom Park, 29101 Yaw St., west of Middle Crossing Road
Honest, Reliable & Experienced! Dowagiac Auto Service Serving the community for 15 years
— Dowagiac Little League, baseball/softball fields
POLICE AND FIRE
City of Dowagiac Police: (269) 782-6689 Fire: (269) 782-9563
HOT SPOT EATERY
SCHOOLS
Dowagiac Union Schools 501 N. Paul St. (269) 782-4471 dowagiacschools.org Calvary Bible Academy 27032 Marcellus Highway (269) 782-7296 calvarybibleministries.word press.com
auto
Oil Changes Exhaust Diagnostics
Front Street Crossing 227 S. Front St. (269) 445-8110
UTILITIES
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichigan power.com (Electric, water and sewer) Located: 241 S. Front St., Dowagiac Phone: (269) 782-8200 Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Website: www.cityofdowagiac.com Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. www.semcoenergygas.com
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June 2012 • 25 Southwestern Michigan College 58900 Cherry Grove Rd. (269) 782-5113 swmich.edu
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26 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
BEST-KEPT SECRET in southwest Michigan: Eddie Museum By JOHN EBY john.eby@leaderpub.com
Leader Publications photo/JOHN EBY
Edwardsburg’s three-room museum exclusively offers artifacts fter 12 years, many people remain unaware about the village. It is located on U.S. 12, just west of M-62 in a forEdwardsburg has a three-room museum with a mer “stagecoach stop” hotel.
A
second-floor balcony of artifacts — especially if they travel to the lakes on M-62 from Indiana without taking U.S. 12 west to “Uptown.” “Some turn and go down to the post office and don’t come down to this block,” according to Argus columnist Jo-Ann Boepple.
It had been a “stagecoach stop,” known as Smith Hotel and Sherman House, until what by then was a rooming house partly “They don’t even know it’s here burned in a 1986. It’s near the unless they go toward Niles. It’s former location of the Uptown one of Edwardsburg’s best-kept Tavern, which, like the old hardware store, also burned. secrets.” The museum was built with
volunteer labor, like a barn-raising. “Everything in here comes from Edwardsburg,” said Boepple, a former Niles teacher and Edwardsburg principal. “We accept nothing from outside of Edwardsburg.” To view its collection in chron-
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June 2012 • 27
Life Made Simple
Exhibits at Eddie Museum
Leader Publications photo/JOHN EBY
Edwardsburg Area Historical Museum’s addition contains a balcony of artifacts. That’s Jo-Ann Boepple in the lower right corner by the Harris family artists exhibit which continues until July 4. ological order, start in the right corner at Stanley Disher’s clock collection and move counterclockwise through a revolving town history arranged by businesses, the railroad, farms, with lakes in the back corner. Clubs and organizations occupy the other back corner, then
churches. Gazing upward reveals an array of military uniforms and quilts along the balcony with the clocks. Front and center is the featured exhibit, “Artists of Edwardsburg,” inspired by the Harris family, including Raymond, sons
n “Artists of Edwardsburg: Past, Present and Future,” tribute to the Harris family until July 4. n July 16-Aug. 29, “World Travelers of Edwardsburg,” tribute to travel guide Vera Slechtova, the German teacher who lived adjacent to the museum property. n Sept. 10-Oct. 24, “Quilters of Edwardsburg,” tribute to community stitchers, quilters and their work. Douglas, Willard, Richard and Charles, all artists, and Charles’ son, Mark, who has an art gallery in Bonita Springs, Fla. A hundred people attended the May 20 open house. Bette Larson Harris, Charles’ wife, a real estate broker and a 1950 Edwardsburg graduate,
n Nov. 5-Dec. 15, “Holiday Collection” of John and Sally Dalrymple, tribute to the holidays in Edwardsburg. n Nov. 24, holiday open house. The museum, which closes Dec. 17, is open every weekday from 1 to 4 p.m.; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sunday. The museum is located at 28616 Main St. (U.S. 12), Edwardsburg. Admission by donation. died Aug. 22, 2009, in an auto accident. The Fort Wayne, Ind., resident remembered the museum in her will. “Their families all came, including cousins who hadn’t seen each other in a long time. It was like a family reunion,” Boepple continued on page 29
28 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
One room contains all manner of school memorabilia, from graduation invitations and programs, a diploma from the first class in 1865, the bell from the original school, yearbooks, prom photos, letter sweaters, cheerleading outfits and class rings. Leader Publications photo/JOHN EBY
Always a Good Time! $1.50 Draft Beer every Day! Friday: All-You-Can-Eat Fish Saturday: Prime Rib Open Til 2am
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June 2012 • 29
Life Made Simple continued from page 27 said. The patriarch was the sort of creative fellow who built the plane whose image the pilot and engineer committed to a canvas. He once left a hole in the garage roof of his house at Eagle Lake for a telescope. The middle room, or Little House, had small bedrooms and a kitchen, which has since been torn off along the back. Finally, visitors come to the school room, crammed with all manner of memorabilia, from graduation invitations and programs, a diploma from the first class in 1865, the bell from the original school, yearbooks (in a Class of 1957 aberration, the Yearling yearbook opened sideways), prom photos, letter sweaters, cheerleading outfits
and class rings. Second-graders touring the museum were exposed to a baffling array of obsolete devices, such as dial telephones and typewriters. A nonprofit group, which meets Wednesday mornings from 10 to noon, maintains the museum. It relies on contributions and what it makes from its gardens with an annual plant sale over Memorial Day. A park-like lawn where there used to be a barn, chicken coop and dog kennel and canopied deck in back host events from concerts and teas to the U.S. 12 garage sale and garden parties. A little white building was Mike’s Takeout, the hamburger stand that stood next to Uptown Tavern — Edwardsburg’s first fast food.
Seldom seen are gardens behind the museum, which figure in the annual Memorial Day plant sale that helps sustain the facility.
HALE’S TRUE VALUE HARDWARE & RADIO SHACK Leader Publications photo/JOHN EBY
HALE’S TRUE VALUE HARDWARE
Over 50 years in business and just finished a store wide remodel. We have the products you need to start and finish your project, as well as, helpful, knowledgable associates to help you find the right solutions. You will find what you need in our Plumbing, Electrical, Tool, and Hardware departments. Need a gift, check out our Housewares and Gift departments...we have a huge selection of gifts for ALL occasions. Stop in our Sporting Goods for the latest Technology in bowhunting from Hoyt, Bowtech, Mathews, Parker, etc. Everything you need, from clothing, bows, accessories, our shooting range to fine tune everthing, and Expert Advise! Need electronics? Our Radio Shack has what you need. Everything from the small parts to the big TV, we have it. Update your cell phone with our contract phones from AT&T and Sprint, or get a prepaid phone from Virgin Mobile, Boost, AT&T. We have innovative products like the iPhone 4S and iPad2, Samsung Galaxy S III, and Kindle Fire. We can get you great TV programming with some of the most innovative technology in the business through Dish Network....programming starts at $24.99 a month! Don’t forget these great services: Screens custom made and repaired, windows repaired, locks re-keyed, pipe cutting & threading, mower blades, scissors, shears sharpened, custom color matching for your paint projects, UPS shipping.
Thank you for your Patronage!
56216 M-51 S Dowagiac, MI • Phone: 782-3426 Open daily 8:30 to 8 P.M., Sunday til 5 P.M.
30 • June 2012
EDWARDSBURG
GOVERNMENT
Village of Edwardsburg 26296 U.S. Highway 12 P.O. Box 596 Edwardsburg, MI 49112 Phone: (269) 663-8484 Fax: (269) 663-8688 Edwardsburg Village Council meets the third Monday at 7 p.m.
DEMOGRAPHICS
n Population: 1,147 n Race: — White: 94.94 percent — African-American: 0.17 percent — Hispanic/Latino: 0.96 percent n Median household income: $33,359
LEGISLATORS
Matt Lori, R-Constantine, state representative for District 59, Office Phone: (877) 262-5959, Mail: N-933 House Office Building, P.O. Box 30014, Lansing, MI 48933, Email: mattlori@house. mi.gov. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@staben ow.senate.gov. U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov. Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail:
P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
LIBRARY
Cass District Library Mason/ Union Branch
17049 U.S. Highway 12 (269) 641-7674 http://cass.lib.mi.us
26745 Church St. (269) 663-5875 http://cass.lib.mi.us continued page 34
Cass District Library Edwardsburg Branch
MAKING
A
TANDA
Life Made Simple
D I F F E R E N C E: STIFFLER
By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
E dwardsburg resident Tanda Stiffler and her husband, David, are always on the lookout for Christmas toys, no matter what time of the year it is. Tanda collects toys throughout the year for Operation: Secret Santa, a holiday party for Cass County foster children. By the time Christmas rolls around, the Stifflers have enough presents to rival Santa Clause. The children can purchase toys with elf bucks earned by playing games at the holiday party. “It is so rewarding and so much fun,” Tanda said. “If it is for kids, I am all over it.” Operation: Secret Santa is one of many ways Tanda gives back to the Edwardsburg community. Tanda is heavily involved with the Edwardsburg Lions Club, which she joined with her husband around five years ago. Tanda was integral in helping the Lions acquire a high-tech camera for Project KidSight, which provides free eye screenings for preschool children. Through Project Kid-
Leader Publications photo/CRAIG HAUPERT
Edwardsburg resident Tanda Stiffler sits outside the Edwardsburg Presbyterian Church, where she volunteers much of her time in addition to her work with the Edwardsburg Lions Club. Sight, the Lions have provided hundreds of children with free eye screenings. “A lot of kids don’t know they can’t see well and that can affect their performance at school,” Tanda said. “With this, we can help kids get diagnosed and refer them to an eye doctor if they need one.” Tanda also volunteers countless hours for the Presbyterian Church on Lake Street in Edwardsburg. She writes articles for the church and is a member of the Presbyterian Women’s Association, which puts on an annual salad smorgasbord and style show. Tanda said her husband
and daughter, Amy Anderson, are just as involved in the community as she is. Anderson, talent search director for Southwestern Michigan College, has helped turn the Edwardsburg Leos club into the largest in the state, with about 140 members. Anderson, a member of the Edwardsburg Lions Club, serves as adviser to the Leos. She’s also heavily involved in running Operation: Christmas Santa. David has served as President of the Edwardsburg Lions Club. “It really is a family affair,” Tanda said. “If you ask me to do something my husband and daughter will be there too. It is a package deal.”
June 2012 • 31
Life Made Simple
Edwardsburg Public Schools
Investing In Your Child’s Future Pride • Passion • Purpose
Our graduates are going places... Michigan State • University of Michigan • Notre Dame • Saint Mary’s • University of South Carolina Western Michigan University • Ferris State • University of Toledo • Washington University Beloit College • Ohio State • Hope College • William Penn University • Valparaiso University Spring Arbor University • Holy Cross • Northern Michigan University Edwardsburg Public Schools • 269.663.3055 • Edwardsburg, Michigan www.edwardsburgpublicschools.org
32 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Edwardsburg Family is Why WE DO IT ALL Call or visit for all of your insurance needs. New Location
Lorie Bowers, Agent New Location
68935 Gateway Dr Edwardsburg, MI 49112-0623 Bus: 269-663-7015
Office Hours:
Monday: 9:00am to 6:00pm Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Wednesday & Friday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Saturday by Appointment
Like a Good NeiGhbor
State Farm iS there®
StateFarm.com® • State Farm Insurance Companies • Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois www.loribowers.com
Edwardsburg Area Museum Exhibits July 16 - Aug 29 World Travelers of Edwardsburg Sept 10 - Oct 24 Quilters of Edwardsburg Nov 5 - Dec 15 Holiday Collections Nov 24 Holiday Open House July
Car Loans & Mortgages A community Credit Union serving the Edwardsburg Area
July 4
69045 M-62, Suite K, Edwardsburg (269)414-4329 July 7 July 28 July 29 Aug 1 Aug 4 Aug 24 Aug 25
Open Tues-Sun 10-5
269-663-8164 65391 Dailey Rd. Edwardsburg
Ask Us About Our Pre-Need Plans
Sept 5 Oct 3 Oct 7
Paul E. MayhEw FunEral hoME, Inc. 26863 W. Main Street, Edwardsburg, MI 269-663-5345 • Paul E. Mayhew, Owner
Nov 7 Nov 7 Nov 10
Jacque Tighe 269-663-5955 • Fax 269-663-8987 68916 Cass Street • PO Box 522 • Edwardsburg Email: randrsharpening@comcast.net
Nov 24
After Hours Chamber Meet and Greet, 5 to 7 pm Annual Corn & Sausage Roast - Conservation Club
69245 maple st. edwardsburg, mi 49112 269-414-4103
26799 Main Street, Edwardsburg
269-591-5872
Walk-Ins Welcome! Brandon Truitt: Owner trubarbers@yahoo.com
Tues - Fri 8:30-5:30 Saturday 8:30-1:00
Fireworks at Eagle Lake Relay for Life Relay for Life Wed Chamber Lunch Meeting, 12 - 1 pm Triathalon at Eagle Lake
10% OFF
Offer good thru 8-31-12
Kelly’s Corner Plaza • 269.663.2501
4:30 & 7:30 pm The Kelly Miller Circus Lion’s Club Youth Outdoor Day Conservation Club Wed Chamber Lunch Meeting, 12 - 1 pm
Graduation Parties, Corporate Events, Private Parties, Weddings, Showers, Family Reunions, Baptisms, Pharmaceutical Events and more!
KatieDidsCatering.com • (269) 663-6030 69821 M-62 Suite 10 • Edwardsburg, MI 49112 Email us at s: Katie@KatieDidsCatering.com
Wed Chamber Lunch Meeting, 12 - 1 pm Cass Co. Crop Walk / Presbytyerian Church, Edwardsburg Wed Chamber Lunch Meeting, 12 - 1 pm Meet and Greet / American Legion Spaghetti Dinner / American Legion Santa Comes to Town - Community Tree Lighting Conservation Club
Bennett Motor Company Steve Bennett
Auto Detailing 26472 Main St., Edwardsburg 269-635-1635 • Fax 888-630-7842
June 2012 • 33
rdsbu a w
rg
Say good morning to a delicious cup of coffee!
Ed
Life Made Simple
• Serving Seattle’s Best Coffee & Espresso Beverages • Panini’s • Soups • Salads • Breakfast Sandwiches • Fruit Smoothies • Hand Dipped Ice Cream
26286 US 12, Edwardsburg
269-663-3029
25990 US HWY 12, EDWARDSBURG 269.663.2960 Open Monday through Friday 6 am - 3 pm, Saturday 7 am - 1 pm
Kris Elston
Kris26286@msn.com
Gene’s Body & Paint Where Every Detail Counts Gene Dobransky
Dec 5
(269) 663-3106
Toll Free 1-888-873-3458 71051 M62 South Edwardsburg
ANTIQUES • COLLECTIBLES
YARD & GARDEN • TOOLS • MORE! resale N buY N sell N trade
the discount Hut
574-215-2556 Sherry Bertrand
SIGNWORKS Visit us online at: signworkssignco.com
269-663-6700
Dec 18
Aug 9 - 12 Children’s Show - Honk Jr. Sept 27 - 30 Musical - Quilters Oct 25 - 28 Play - A Pebble Among the Stones Nov 17 Barn Swallow Ice Cream Social, 7 pm
OWNERS: Tom & Jodi Addison
Aug 27
Aug 28 Aug 29
WE DO: Brakes, exhaust and alignments, and all of your automotive needs!
Sept 4
26041 US Highway 12 • Edwardsburg, MI (269) 663-7435 • CELL (574) 606-6323 Or email: addison7800@aol.com
Oct 5
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!
StateLINe ConvenienCe Store Cold Beer & Wine Liquor Michigan Lottery Groceries 269-663-7375
26251 US 12 Edwardsburg, MI 49112 Pam Whitcraft Office: 269-663-5164 Associate Broker/ Office Toll Free: 800-856-8200 Branch Manager Office Fax: 269-663-7033 ABR, CRB, GRI Cell: 574-596-3590 e-mail: pamwhitcraft@cressyeverett.com cressyeverett.com/pamwhitcraft
Edwardsburg Public Schools
ADDISON TIRE SERVICE, INC. Established Business since 1987
Annual Awards Dinner
Barn Swallow Theater
fax 269-663-3233
69175 M62 South • Edwardsburg, MI 49112
Wed Chamber Lunch Meeting, 12 - 1 pm
Open House - Edwardsburg High School, Middle School, Primary School Open House - Eagle Lake Elementary Open House - Edwardsburg Intermediate School First Day of School
Homecoming Nov 14 and 15 Parent/Teacher Conferences Dec 24 - Jan 4 Winter Break April 1 - 5 Spring Break June 7 Last Day of School
Leader Publications
217 N. 4th Street, Niles, MI 269-683-2101
LeaderPub.com Krupp’s Power Sports, Inc. www.kruppspowersports.com
Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo & Can-Am ATV’s & SSY
Sales & Service • New & Used • Authorized Service • Storage Available • Factory-Trained Mechanics • Factory Parts - SnoGear-Apparel Norm, Judy & Shane Krupp
(269) 663-8424 • Fax: (269) 663-2468 70986 M-62, Edwardsburg
LaPlace Plumbing, INC. P.O. Box 358 Edwardsburg, MI MI: 269-663-8046 IN: 574-277-1730
Residential • Commercial • Licensed in Michigan and Indiana
“Quality Work at a Reasonable Price” Independently Owned and Operated by Galen LaPlace
34 • June 2012
Life Made Simple continued page 34
PARKS
The difference between our competitors and us is as plain as black and white.
Gunn Park, between U.S. 12 and Pleasant Lake — Lake access, open field space
POLICE AND FIRE
Police: (269) 663-8444 Fire: (269) 663-2160
HOT SPOT EATERY
Weekly recycling and garbage service for less than our competitors charge for garbage alone. • 1/2 the pollution • 1/2 Green house gasses • Reduce garbage landfill
Papa’s Pizzeria 71077 M-62 (269) 663-0097 Known for fresh-ingredient pizza
SCHOOLS
Edwardsburg Public Schools 69410 Section St., Edwardsburg Contact: 269-663-1044, edwards burgpublicschools.org
UTILITIES
Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 (800) 492-5989 Website: www.indianamichigan power.com City utilities Edwardsburg Village Hall Located 26296 U.S. Highway 12, Edwardsburg Phone: (269) 663-8484 Hours: M-F: 9 a.m. to noon, 1 to p.m. Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.semcoenergygas. com
“Recycling creates jobs, landfills create a mess.”
269-684-0900 • 800-722-9710 Residential • CommeRCial • Rolloff
Pawsitively Crazy About Pets
Sheriff Paul Bailey Office of the Sheriff of Berrien County L. Paul Bailey, Sheriff www.BCSheriff.org 919 Port Street St. Joseph, MI 49085 (269) 983-7111 • Voice Mail: Ext. 7220 pbailey@berriencounty.org For more information call Crime Prevention Specialist Kelly Laesch at 269-983-7141 ext. 7221
June 2012 • 35
Life Made Simple
Leader Publications photo/SHELLIE RAYMOND
Edwardsburg celebrates its homecoming in style.
stop in after the round! 17 flat sCreens! games! great lunCh & dinner speCials! great serViCe! priVate parties! CheCk faCebook for liVe entertainment on the weekends
69245 maple st. • edwardsburg, mi 49112 269-414-4103 Leader Publications file photo
Relay for LIfe
36 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Healthy Living
Serving Dowagiac and the surrounding communities since 1977, we offer complete eye care for all members of your family. In addition to family eye care, our We now carry the FIRST EVER services include treatment of eye disease electronic Bifocals! injuries. Call forand more information.
1045 East Front Street Buchanan, MI
(269) 695-5540
Optometrist, Dr. Montgomery Optometrist, Dr. Montgomery also also specializes in Lasik & Cataract specializes in Lasik co-management. co-management A.K. Montgomery | Dowagiac, Dr. Alan Montgomery | Dowagiac,MI MI Dr. Alan Montgomery | (269) 782-3476 (269) 782-3476 | www.akmontgomery.com
Pregnant? Need help? 527 E. Main l Niles, MI 49120 269.684.6200
l
info@pregnancyniles.com www.pregnancyniles.com *The pregnancy care center does not provide abortion referals.
For a Safer Healthier Community
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY SERVICE, INC.
BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY NILES-BUCHANAN YMCA 905 N Front St Niles, MI 49120 269 683 1552
www.nb-ymca.com
Municipally Owned & Operated / Non Emergency & Transfers All Crews Are Fully Licensed & Experienced Paramedics Quick Response From 5 Stations / Medicare & Medicaid Approved
Non-Emergencies & Transfers: 925-2141 Administrative & Business Calls: 925-2143 EMERGENCIES-DIAL 911
For Peace Of Mind Call Today About Our Advantage Membership Program.
With the Medic 1 Ambulance Membership Program you can feel safe knowing your family is protected from out-ofpocket ambulance costs.
www.medic1ambulance.org
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services
June 2012 • 37
dsburg A r a
a re
Ed w
Life Made Simple
Edwardsburg
Chamber of Commerce Member List: Adams Theraputic Massage ..................................269-358-3345 At Home Realty .......................................................269-663-0100 Bentzer Inc. ..............................................................269-663-3649 Byron Counseling ...................................................269-414-4088 Carmi Design Group Inc.........................................269-663-5073 Cass County Economic Development..................269-445-4420 Cass County Library ...............................................269-445-3400 Center for Animal Health ........................................269-663-3235 Chemical Bank ........................................................269-663-3343 Clear Choice Chiropractic of Edwardsburg, PC..269-663-6600 Coldwell Banker RWG ............................................269-663-8800 Cressy & Everette Real Estate ..............................269-663-5164 Christianson Industries ..........................................269-663-8502 D.E. Duck Heating & Cooling .................................269-699-5237 Drexel Inc. ................................................................269-699-7676 Diesel Injection Serv. 430 54th St. SW Grand Rapids 49548 Eagle Lake Marine of Mich. Inc..............................269-699-5103 East Shore Animal Hospital ...................................269-663-7387 Edwardsburg Family Medicine ..............................269-663-8288 Edward Jones Investments ...................................269-663-3130 Edwardsburg Public Schools ................................269-663-3055 Edwardsburg Sports Complex ..............................269-699-7552 Fat Cams at Garver .................................................269-414-4446 Frontier .....................................................................269-273-1736 Greater Niles Community Federal Credit Union..269-414-4327 G.W. Jones Bank .....................................................269-663-5626 Harding’s Friendly Market ......................................269-663-7305 Hope United Methodist Church .............................269-663-5321 Kelly’s Investment...................................................269-699-5225 Kemner lott Agency ................................................269-445-2425 Krupp’s Power Sports Inc. .....................................269-663-8424 LaBre Law Office.....................................................269-663-8554 Leader Publications ................................................269-687-7703 Leader Publications ................................................269-687-7713
Leader Publications ................................................269-687-7731 Lion’s Club ...............................................................269-663-2005 Lunkers ....................................................................269-663-3745 Marbach, Brady & Weaver Inc. ..............................574-266-1010 Meridian Title Corporation .....................................269-663-8139 North American Forest ...........................................269-663-8500 Ontwa Township .....................................................269-663-2347 Ontwa Township / Edwardsburg Police ...............269-663-8444 Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church .................269-699-5870 Precision Sheet Metal .............................................269-663-8810 Presbyterian Church...............................................269-663-6815 R & P Ambulance Restoration ...............................269-663-8319 Red Star Auctions/ St. Evans Inc ..........................269-663-6100 Robin’s Nest: Quilts & More ..................................269-663-3303 Scapino Steel...........................................................269-663-0045 Servpro .....................................................................269-273-8777 Service Oil Company ..............................................269-445-2441 Simmons Chiropractic ...........................................574-271-4628 South Bend SilverHawks .......................................574-235-9988 Southwestern Michigan College ...........................269-782-1000 State Farm................................................................269-663-7015 Stateline Diesel........................................................269-663-8571 Stillson Insurance Agency LLC .............................269-663-6695 Subway Edwardsburg, Libs, Inc. ..........................269-663-8558 Superior Air Management Systems, LLC .............269-663-5700 Tim Tancey, CPA......................................................269-663-8620 Teresa of Edwardsburg ..........................................269-663-2244 The Union House Bed & Breakfast .......................269-641-9988 Union Insurance Agency, LLC ...............................269-641-5995 Uptown Improvement Assoc. ................................269-663-2347 Valhalla Information Systems LLC........................269-978-8084 Village of Edwardsburg ..........................................269-663-8484 Voice - Printed News...............................................269-445-8455
574-343-3721 or 269-663-6344 • Located at 26225 US 12 P.O. Box 575, Edwardsburg, MI 49112 • E-mail: Administration@edwardsburg.biz
Click on www.Edwardsburg.biz
38 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
BEST-KEPT SECRET
in southwest Michigan: History Center at Courthouse Square By TERRI GORDON Leader Publications
The homestead garden was once a family’s
only access to fresh food: a difficult concept to grasp in this day of 24-hour supermarkets, according to Bob Myers, of the History Center at Courthouse Square in Berrien Springs. “A garden offered families of the time their only means of obtaining fresh vegetables. That’s something we seldom think about in our age of canned and
frozen foods from the supermarket.” he said. “In the early 19th century, stores could only offer staples: flour, sugar, salt and the like.
Leader Publications photo/TERRI GORDON
End of season peppers and tomatoes ripen in front of the Murdock Log Home at the History Center at Courthouse Square. “Families grew their own food, and preserving it meant drying, pickling, smoking and salting. Fresh vegetables from the garden must have been a real treat.” Heritage Garden, outside the Murdock Log House at the History Center, replicates what a garden would have looked like in the early- to mid-1830s. It sports vintage Jacob’s Cattle beans, corn squash and Hungarian wax peppers. Broomcorn, used literally for making brooms, is also grown in the garden.
Sawyer resident John Frambach designed and constructed Heritage Garden several years ago as a requirement for the Michigan State University Extension’s Master Gardener program. He continues to maintain it. According to Frambach, the plants in the garden would have been readily found in the region during the 1830s. Visit the Heritage Garden at the History Center at Courthouse Square, located at the corner of Union Street and U. S. 31, in Berrien Springs. Call (269) 4711202.
Beautiful...
Call today to schedule your free estimate. 574-234-2133 918 Oliver Plow Ct. • South Bend, IN www.rosebrick.com
Serving Michiana for over 95 years....
June 2012 • 39
Life Made Simple
Apartment Living
BERRIEN WOODS Apartments 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOMS EAST OF DOWNTOWN NILES
Four Flags Plaza
• Garages & Carports • Washer/Dryer Connection • Central Air/ Heat • Seasonal Pool • Playground
269-684-2246
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 10-3
Now Accepting Applications for Elderly
17 North 7th St • Niles
For more information, call 269-684-7779
BENTWATERS APARTMENTS OF THREE RIVERS Luxury Aparment Living HOT WATER...
TRASH...
251 Cass Street Niles, MI 49120 269-683-2783 www.nileshousing.org Income Based Housing approx. 30% of income
Professionally Managed by Intrepid Management, Inc.
Griffin Estates
1 Bedroom Apts 3, 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes
River Oak
(269) 687-8340 1729 Oak St. Niles
INDIAN HILLS
APARTMENTS/ TOWNHOUSES
QUALITY HOUSING AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE
To suit your needs we have the following types of units: Section 8 and 236 one, two, and three bedroom townhouses Section 8 and market rate one and two bedroom apartments
ALL PAID!! Mention this ad and receive $100 off your first months rent!!
ARBOR TRAILS 683-1850
HEAT... 1 or 2 Bedrooms!
So Hurry In!
1615 N. 5th St., Niles TDD 1-800-649-3777
WATER...
NILES HOUSING COMMISSION
AND THEY’RE GONE
Apartments
420 Bentwaters Ave., Three Rivers, MI “This is an equal opportunity provider”
(269) 273-7540
BLINK
Spacious Layouts • Pet Friendly Free Heat • Free Hot/Soft Water
Stop In Or Call
Jackie At (269) 687-1000 1721 Bond St. Niles, MI 49120
www.mrdarpartments.com griffinestates@mrdapartments.com
To arrange a visit call
269-782 5603
TDD/TTY: 1-800 649 3777 Or stop by the Management Office at: 400 Cleveland Rd., Dowagiac Michigan
40 • June 2012
GOVERNMENT
City of Niles 508 E. Main St., Niles Phone: (269) 683-4700 Website: www.ci.niles.mi.us City council meets at 1345 E. Main St. on the second and fourth Monday at 6 p.m.
DEMOGRAPHICS
n Population: 11,600 n Mean travel time to work: 20 minutes n Average household income: $31,757 n Median home value: $88,400 n Race: — White: 80.3 percent — African-American: 12.4 percent — Hispanic/Latino: 5.7 percent n Education: — High school diploma: 82.6 percent — Bachelor’s degree or higher: 13.6 percent n Gender: — Females: 52.9 percent — Males: 47.1 percent
FARMERS’ MARKET
Niles Bensidoun French Market West Main and Front streets, Niles 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday and Saturday
HEALTH CARE
Cassopolis OB/GYN and MIHP 60 North St. Joseph Ave. (269) 683-0300 Lakeland Community Hospital 31 North St. Joseph Ave. (269) 683-5510 Lakeland Cancer Specialists within Lakeland Community Hospital 31 North St. Joseph Ave. (269) 428-4411 Lakeland Comprehensive Weight Loss Center 6 Longmeadow Village Drive, Suite 2, (269) 687-4673
Life Made Simple
NILES Lakeland Ear, Nose and Throat 60 N. St. Joseph Ave., Suite C Phone: (269) 687-2910 Fax: (269) 687-8770 Lakeland Family Care of Niles 4 Longmeadow Village Drive,
Suite 2 (269) 684-6000 Lakeland Family Medicine, Niles 24 N. St. Joseph Ave., Suite G (269) 684-5002
MAKING
A
Lakeland General Surgery 60 North St. Joseph Ave., Suite E (269) 684-6696 Lakeland Orthopaedics 6 Longmeadow Village Drive, Suite 1 (269) 684-6484
D I F F E R E N C E:
SCOTT CROUCH By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com
N iles resident Scott Crouch is a busy guy. In addition to being a N i l e s C i t y f i r e f i g h t e r, Crouch also operates a fishing guide service while tackling numerous community service projects in Niles.nHe has a vision for Niles as a vibrant place with activities and events for people of all ages. “Anything is possible in this town if the people will put their minds and hearts into something,” Crouch said. “We have so much here with the river and everything… there’s no reason we can’t make Niles great.” Crouch not only talks a big game, he backs it up. A few years ago, Crouch approached the city with an idea for building sand volleyball courts along the St. Joseph River. When he was told there wasn’t enough money for such a project, Crouch decided to facilitate the project himself. With the support of many in the community, Crouch helped open the courts in the fall of 2009. You won’t find Crouch’s name on the court, but he likes it that way.
“I don’t care if my name is on there or not. That has no bearing,” Crouch said. “What has bearing is being able to see the impact it has on the community. When I drive by and see people playing out there — I don’t get a feeling — I just know that it is right.” Crouch isn’t stopping at sand volleyball courts. He is in the middle of securing funding and supplies for his next project — a pond/water fall feature along the St. Joseph River and north of the volleyball courts. “It is going to happen. I already have close to $10,000 donated, plus supplies,” he said. “The only thing that got in the way was my hip surgery. It was supposed to happen this year, but I would say we are looking at next year now.” Although Crouch said he only tackles one project at a time, he’s already formed the vision for creating a basketball/ slash waterpark near the volleyball courts. “It would be asphalt and would have underground tubing underneath and sprinkler heads would pop up and spray water so you could kick it on and have a waterpark
Submitted photo
Niles City firefighter and fishing guide Scott Crouch knows how to land more than just big fish. He’s the man behind several community service projects in Niles. and the kids could play,” he said. “For basketball, you’d turn the water off and drain it.” In addition to these projects, Crouch helped refurbish the authentic dragon boats seen every year during the Niles Riverfest Dragon Boat Races. The reason for Crouch’s participation in the community is a simple one. It is his home. “If I could have a job of just going out and making Niles great and the city great, I would love it,” he said.
June 2012 • 41
Life Made Simple
LEGISLATORS
Lakeland Urology 24 N. St. Joseph Ave. (269) 684-5447 Sleep Medicine of Lakeland 6 Longmeadow Village Drive, Suite 1 (269) 408-1115
Sharon Tyler, R-Niles, state representative for District 78, Office Phone: (888) 373-0078, Mail: 1097 Anderson House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48909, Email: sharontyler@house.mi. gov.
Southwestern Medical Clinic Center for Women’s Health/Obstetrics and Gynecology 60 N. St. Joseph Ave., Suite B1 (269) 687-0808
John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909.
Southwestern Medical Clinic Adult-Internal Medicine and Family Medicine 2002 S. 11th St. (269) 687-0200
U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov.
Pediatrics 2002 South 11th St. (269) 687-0200 Walk-In Clinic 2002 S. 11th St. (269) 687-0200
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov.
U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov. Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
LIBRARY
Niles District Library 620 E. Main St. (269) 683-8545
PARKS
n Birkholm Park, Clarendon and 14th streets — Playground and picnic facilities n Cass Street Park, Cass and Eighth streets — Play structures, tetherball, basketball court, picnic facilities n Plym Park, Marmont and Plym Park Road. — Play structures, picnic shelter,
tennis courts, soccer field, softball, basketball n Eagle Street Park, Eagle and Fifth streets — Playground n Tot Park, Pokagon and 11th streets — Playground n Eastside Park, 17th and Sycamore streets — Play structure, picnic shelter, softball/baseball field, basketball court n Saathoff Park, Maple and Ninth streets — Playground, soccer field, basketball court n Clevenger Park, Cherry and Fifth streets — Play structure, picnic shelter n Riverfront Park, along east side of St. Joseph River, Wayne to Fort streets — Boat ramp, play structure, skate park, amphitheater, walking trails, picnic facilities/shelters continued on page 44
Niles We are a diverse and unique community of forward thinking people who believe in the equal opportunity of all our citizens to enjoy our special quality of life.
Pay ALL o your bills f here! t k ou e Chec in W New on r u o cti Sele
as re Sp Leisu% OFF 30
Offering Expert & Reliable Electrical Services at Competitive Rates for 31 Years Now.
Electrical service provided for: • residential • commercial • industrial • farms • apartments 835 Carberry Road • Niles, MI
269-684-5544
www.welshandsonselectric.com
Shawn Baber-Ashley Realtor® Branch Manager 1439 Oak St. Niles, MI 49120 Toll Free: 800-683-5355 Cell: 269-845-2317 shawnashley@cressyeverett.com cressyeverett.com/shawnashley
E a st M a
PLEASURE POOLS OF NILES Across from Bell Plaza 1911 South 11th Street Next to Bank of Warm America Weather 800-376-7946 Means or Treat Your 269-684-7800 Pool Now.
East Main Gardens
FLORIST & GREENHOUSE
1521 E. Main St. Niles, MI (269) 683-8000 (800) 924-7525
www.eastmaingardensflorist.com
in Gardens
Thank You Think of us when you think of to all our loyal your party needs customers & friends. – Best Selection, too!
Crockers Party Store 1702 Broadway, Niles, MI 49120 • Ph: 269-684-0244 Friday & Saturday Open until 2 a.m.
Debbie Floor, Realtor® ABR,
GRI, e-PRO
1439 Oak St. • Niles, MI Cell: 269-362-2599 debbie@debbiefloor.com
Brian Floor Top Producer, Realtor®
ABR, GRI, e-PRO, Chairman’s Club
Cell: 269-362-4029 TopProducer@BrianFloor.com
“The Place for Family Fun” Gift Cerfiticate • Golf Lessons • Miniture Golf Driving Range • Snack Bar • Batting Cages • Arcade
3019 S. 11th St. • Niles, MI 269.684.6868 www.hackersgolfandgames.com
42 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Four Flags
Niles
Antique Mall Voted Best Antique Mall in the Area!
* 60 Dealers under one roof * Open year round * One block north of Main St. Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm Saturday 10am-5 Sunday Noon to 5pm 218 N. 2nd St. in Historic Downtown Niles
269.683.6681
Monday to Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm Friday & Saturday 10:00am - 6:00pm 620 E. Main Street • Niles, MI
269-683-8545 www.nileslibrary.com
June 2012 1-3 6 7
Art Gallery Book Club Book Sales Chess Club Computer Classes Computer Lab Computer Copier (fee) DVD Loans Teen Programs
Ebook Loans Game Nights Genealogy Club Interlibrary Loan Jr. Garden Club Meeting Space (fee) Movie Showings Storytime WIFI Access
Olfactory Hue Bistro BrEakfaSt • BruNch • LuNch • catEriNg and
yoga
10 30
July 2012
Independence Day Fireworks! Dusk Apple Festival Grounds, 17Th Str., Next To Jr. High School 14 - 15 Niles Burn Run, All Day, Riverfront Park 15 American Red Cross Blood Drive noon - 5:45 pm 1st Presbyterian - 13 Fourth Street 25 Arts In Motion ~ A Celebration of the Arts. Celebrate the talents of Local Artists, Street Entertainment, local vendors, Block Party & Art! 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Downtown Niles TBA Fly-In/Drive In Breakfast $6 for Adults, K-12 Kids $3 7:00 am - Noon Jerry Tyler Memorial Airport
August 2012
222 Front St. • Niles, MI • 269-845-0283
HOW CAN WE HELP YOU? Allergy Fast Solutions Prescriptions Medication Health & Compounding Beauty
Personal Care
8 9
Every Saturday FREE Community Lunch Noon - 2 pm 9 S. Fourth Street - Downtown Area Trinity Episcopal Church 9th Annual Niles Bluegrass Festival, All Day, Riverfront Park Amphitheater Free WED Summer Concerts Begin! 7:00 pm -9:00 pm Riverfront Park Amphitheater Niles Bensidoun French Market 9:00 am -2:00 pm Corner of Front & Main near the Main St Bridge Free THUR Summer Concerts Begin! 6:00 pm -8:30 pm Riverfront Park Amphitheater Movies in the Park, Dusk, Riverfront Park Behind Theatre Niles Bensidoun French Market 9:00 am -2:00 pm Corner of Front & Main near the Main St Bridge Free SUN Summer Concerts Begin!! 7:00 pm 9:00 pm Riverfront Park Amphitheater Niles Women’s Expo 10:00am-4:00pm 200 Block E. Main St.
4
226 East Main Street • Niles 269-687-0880 Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm
Lace Dance Fitness Studio
Good food, good music and fun activities all year long
2-5
Riverfest Begins!! Raft Parade, Dragon Boats, Car Show, Live Music, Arts & Crafts, Food and Fun for All. 10 - 12 Heritage Route Garage Sale Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale All Day, Main Street 14 American Red Cross Blood Drive noon - 5:45 pm Hope Community Church - 2390 Lake 15 Main Street (DDA) Meeting, 8:00 am, 210 E. Main St., 2nd Floor 27 City Council Meeting, 6:00 pm, Council Chambers 1345 E. Main St.
September 2012
TBA
Fly-In/Drive In Breakfast Salute to Veterans (Veterans Eat FREE) TBA Quilts from the Heart Quilt Show sponsored by the Niles Piecemakers, 9 am - 4 pm Brandywine Elementary, 2428 S. 13th St.
Household Needs
LOWESt PriCES iN tOWN, gUArANtEEd!!
FrEE rx dELiEvErY Niles Family
Monday - Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm Closed Sunday
70 E. Main St. • 683-1400 • Next to Secretary of State
Your “one of a find” upscale shopping experience. 217 N. 4th Street, Niles
269-683-2101
LeaderPub.com
224 E. Main Street, Niles • 684-8484 www.nilesstyles.com
June 2012 • 43
Life Made Simple
$5
24
Apple Festival Youth Parade, 1:00 pm 27 - 30 Apple Festival Begins!! 3:00 pm, Apple Festival Grounds, 17th & Lake
NUGGETT Downtown Grill
*not valid with other offers. exp 7-1-13
tonight?
American Red Cross Blood Drive noon - 5:45 pm 1st Church of Christ - 2240 Yankee 12 - 31 Niles Haunted House & Scream Park, 7:00 - 11 pm 20 Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Recycling Collection and Certified Document Destruction 8:00 am to Noon Southeast Berrien County Landfill Recycle Center, 3200 Chamberlain 27 Halloween Costume Contest, 2:30 pm, Niles District Library, Main St. 27 Downtown Safe Trick or Treat, 4 - 5pm, Downtown Main Street 31 Official Neighborhood Door to Door Trick or Treating 6:00 - 7:30, All Area Neighborhoods
www.playteamtrivia.com
• Lolita Glassware • Willow Tree Angels • Kringle Candles
11
Thursdays starting at 7:00pm
New and Used Books • Sale Books •Magazines •Magazines • Sale Books
New and Used Books
MAJEREK’S
FRIdays
Gift Shoppe & Reader’s World 213 E. Main
from 9:00pm to 1:30 am
217 E. Main
202 E. Main St. • Niles 684-8788 www.nuggettdowntowngrill.com
269.683.1689
Two Great Stores Continuing a Family Tradition in Downtown Niles!
stYLIsts
November 2012 24
What are you doing
Unique Gifts & Cards
October 2012
17 17
The
With the purchase of $25 in merchandise.
Santa Claus Arrives! 11:00 am, Riverfront Amphitheater Decorate downtown for the Holiday Homecoming Celebration 1:00 - 3:00 pm, 210 E. Main St. - Main St. Office Holiday Homecoming Lighting the Downtown Tree, Carriage Rides, Caroling, Entertainment & Shopping! 4 - 7 pm, Downtown Niles
New Customer
Tina Rager Delen Kennedy Ami Wells Aimee Murdock
sHANNoN FrAme OWNER/STYLIST
$5.00
For your appointment call 269-683-4923
e Sav on ANY service *expires 7-1-2013
Big or Small, Legal Shield Can Help SM
December 2012
Ft. St. Joseph Museum’s Holiday Open House, 10 am to 1 pm, Ft. St. Joseph Museum, 508 E. Main - Corner of Main & 5th 1 Breakfast with Rudolph & Friends, All You Can Eat Pancakes & Sausage with Holiday Friends. Bring Cameras! 8:30 am - 10:30 am, Golden Nuggett Grille, Downtown 1 Lighting of the Train Depot 4:30 - 6:00 pm Historic Amtrak Train Depot 6 Visit With Santa and Friends, 5:30 - 7:00 pm Riverfront Cafe, 219 N. Front 7 Brentwood Holiday Bazaar, 10 am - 4 pm 1147 South Third St 12 American Red Cross Blood Drive noon - 5:45 pm Wesley United Church, 302 Cedar St 13 - 20 Visit With Santa and Friends, 5:00 - 7:00 pm Riverfront Cafe, 219 N. Front St.
Robert S. Feifar
1
INDEPENDENT ASSOCIATE
Email rfeifar@legalshield.com www.legalshield.com/hub/rfeifar
322 East Main Street, Suite #101 Niles, MI 49120 Local (269) 683-8419 Toll Free (800) 877-9278
OVEN-FRESH
FLAVOR Come in to our new dining room and savor the truly wonderful aroma of sweet, ripe, tomatoes, sizzling pepperoni and melt-inyour-mouth mozzarella cheese cooking in our oven. Then dig into your own custom pizza creation.
January 2013
11 - 13 Hunter Ice Festival, All Day Downtown
Bella’s
• Jewelry • Purses • Accessories • Home Decõr • Hand Crafted Signs • Kitchen ware Gifts and Memories & more!
222 E. Main St.
Repair • Networking • Web Design
Nestled in the heart of uptown Niles
269-683-4524
269-684-7177
Mon, Tues, Thurs 10-7 Wed 11-7 Fri 10-6 Sat 10-4 & Sun 11-4
306 E. Main St. Suite 200 Niles, MI We love technology.
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
Where the 2nd pizza is always... 215 E. Main St. Niles, MI
269-684-6600 www.pizzatransit.com
1/2
OFF
44 • June 2012
Life Made Simple continued from page 41 n Island Park, entrance off Parkway, south of Broadway Street — Bridge to island, picnic shelter, playground equipment n Marmont Street Boat Ramp, Marmont Street at the St. Joseph River — Boat ramp n Southside Park, 15th and Silverbrook Avenue — Play structure, baseball field, basketball court, picnic shelter n Troost Park, Eighth and Ferry streets — Playground n Thomas Stadium, Silverbrook Avenue and 11th Street — Baseball stadium only n F.O.P Park, F.O.P. Drive and State Street — Baseball only
Years of Beautiful Smiles for Children in Need.
POLICE AND FIRE
City of Niles Police: (269) 683-3282 Fire: (269) 683-2520
Dr. Richard Beckermeyer, DDS, P.C. has exhibited his passion for giving children healthy smiles on his many missions to dental clinics all over the world. Here in our community, Dr. Beckermeyer annually participates in the ADA Foundation’s National “GIVE KIDS A SMILE!” program. Each year, on the first Friday in February FREE dental cleanings for children 18 and under are offered as a service to the community.
Richard L Beckermeyer, D.D.S., PC www.drbeckermeyer.com
269.683.6461 123 Marmont Street, Niles
y WHERE YOU CAN FIND YOUR “PATHWAY TO Health SMILES!”
Michigan State Police Niles Post Phone: (269) 683-4411
HOT SPOT EATERY
The Tavern 417 Brookfield St. (269) 683-1888 Known for: Burgers
SCHOOLS
Niles Community Schools 111 Spruce St., Niles Contact: (269) 683-0732, niless chools.org Niles Adventist School 110 N. Fairview Ave., Niles Contact: 269-683-5444, nilesad ventistschool.org St. Mary’s School 217 S. Lincoln Ave., Niles Contact: (269) 683-9191, stmarysniles.com The Home School HUB Niles Contact: (269) 240-6094, hshub.org continued on page 46
June 2012 • 45
Life Made Simple
Supporting Local Businesses Since 1919 Promote, Protect and Improve YOUR business! Four Flags area
Chamber CommerCe
of
Building a Better Business Community
• Networking Events • Business Promotions • Professional Development • Business Counseling • Sponsorship Opportunities • FREE web page
Join today and increase your influence • Newsletter and in the community. e-mail blast 321 E. Main St. Niles, MI 49120 269-683-3720 Chamber@nilesmi.com www.nilesmi.com
• Marketing opportunities
46 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
continued from page 44 Lake Michigan College Bertrand Crossing 1905 Foundation Drive, Niles (269) 695-2792 www.lakemichigancollege.edu Southwestern Michigan College 33890 U.S. Highway 12 (269) 687-1600 www.swmich.edu
UTILITIES
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichigan power.com
Municipal Utilities City of Niles Utilities Department 322 East Main St., Niles Phone: (269) 683-4700 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Website: www.ci.niles.mi.us Natural Gas Semco Energy Phone: (800) 624-2019 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.semcoenergygas.com
Patrick McAvinue, left, plays fiddle in accompaniment to Audie Blaylock of Audie Blaylock and Redline, which played at the Niles Bluegrass Festival in June. Leader Publications photo/KIMBERLY WYNN
Southwest Michigan’s Retinal Specialist, Dr. Wes Heroman, wants you to know:
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in older adults. Symptoms include blurred, wavy or distorted vision and a blind spot in the center of vision. Dr. Heroman is specially trained to treat retina diseases. His specialized care allows patients to have treatments performed close to home.
RepaiRs & pRices You can TRusT!
Please call our office today if you think that you might benefit from an evaluation of your eyes. Convenient locations in Niles and St. Joseph.
269.684.6400
GENE miLLiN
master certified Auto Technician
FREE WiFi!
www.greateyecare.com
ALL WORK GUARANTEED! WE'vE bUiLT OUR bUsiNEss ON ThE REfERRALs Of sATisfiED cUsTOmERs WhO TRUsT Us TO pROviDE RELiAbLE AND hONEsT sERvicE AT A fAiR pRicE, EvERy TimE! cOmE sEE WhAT WE cAN DO fOR yOU! • Tune-ups • Exhaust Systems • Heating & A/C • Electrical • Engine Issues • Steering, Tires & Suspension
705 N. Second St. • Niles 269-684-8400
June 2012 • 47
Life Made Simple
BEST-KEPT SECRET in southwest Michigan: El Amigo Pepe
E
By JOHN EBY john.eby@leaderpub.com
l Amigo Pepe, 1140 S. 11th St., has been Leader Publications photo/JOHN EBY making a name in Niles for eight years — four Jose Mendez and Gabriela Morales operate El Amigo Pepe. since moving from Fifth Street. “Customers are happier with this location,” Jose This family-operated business’ says his oldest daughter, Gabriela name means “The Friend” Pepe, Morales, who at 23 has been Mendez said. nickname for Jose. The opera- waitressing half her life and And happy, loyal customers are the key to El ation involves seven family mem- brought in her husband of a year. Amigo Pepe’s success. bers. “We know our customers and “My dad has a lot of friends in the restaurant business, and not all of them are doing as well,”
they know us,” Gabriela said. “We’ve seen their kids grow up continued page 48
DALE RIFENBERG
Insurance
Marcia A. Rifenberg Owner
AUTO • HOME • FARM BUSINESS • MOTORCYCLES RV • WATERCRAFT
118 Main Street Buchanan, MI 49107 Office: 269-695-1200
|
Cell: 269-470-5824
48 • June 2012 continued from page 49 and they’ve seen us grow up. So many regular customers know us by name and we know what they want before they sit down. My parents are super friendly. My dad will give you the shirt off his back, so people are always there when he needs help. I tried to walk away and work at a hospital, but I had to come back. You
miss the people.” Getting in the restaurant business Jose chalks up to a “crazy idea. We didn’t know what we were doing. We had a place at Sister Lakes, then we moved to Michigan City, then came here” after a truck driver suggested Niles. They previously did farm work, from grapes to celery, in Decatur.
Life Made Simple
“
Everything is done according to what people want. Customers are always right. — Gabriela Morales
Reusable Treasures
”
You Never KNow AuctioN House Auctions Fridays at 7 pm
We take nice, clean consignments Pick-ups Available
53847 N. Park Ave. Elkhart, IN
For more details call David (574) 522-1020 or James (574) 320-1178
You Never KNow FleA MArKet
Complete Auction & Liquidation Services • Real Estate • Antiques/Collectibles • Farm & Agricultural • Industrial/Commercial • Charity/Fund Raising Events • Appraisals • Bankruptcy •Live Auctions http://www.glassmanauctions.com/
Wed.&Thurs. 11-6 Fri.&Sat. 11-7 Sun. 11-6
53788 County Road 9, Elkhart, IN Contact David @ 574-522-1020 SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
37802 Red Arrow Highway Paw Paw, Michigan 49079 (269) 657-6467 Open 7 Days a Week! 8am-8pm
June 2012 • 49
Life Made Simple In business since 1994, Jose and Ana also ran a grocery store. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; closed Sunday. “We started with a little menu,” Jose said, compared to 14 kinds of burritos, including vegetarian and feo — “ugly.” El Amigo Pepe has been expanding its profile, from local festivals and fairs to launching a Facebook page. Jose does the Cass, Van Buren and Berrien fairs, Niles bluegrass and apple festivals and Red Bud motocross events in Buchanan. Whoever cooks follows Jose’s and Ana’s recipes for authentic central Mexican cuisine. Jose’s specialty from Michoacan state is carnitas, pork with lime and cilantro. “Everything is done fresh,” Gabriela said. “We make chips three times a day and salsa from tomatoes,” which probably came from Shel-
ton’s. “Everything is done according to what people want,” she said. “Customers are always right. “It’s been getting very busy and we’re thankful for being so loyal to us. “We try to keep prices low (like family-friendly 10 for $10 taco Tuesdays) because we know the situation a lot of our customers are in. “Sometimes, we’re so busy it’s hard to get to them and they stack up the dishes, wipe their own table with a rag and wait.” Sybiotic relationships are cherished. “We go to Walmart to get things, and Walmart people come here. Tyler’s people come in all the time and send over people buying cars.” Police officers who patronize the place praise Ana’s purple shirt, “Say no to drugs, say yes to tacos.” “They don’t eat donuts, they eat tacos,” Gabriela laughs.
We Pay Top Dollar For Gold We Buy:
Scrap Gold, 90% Silver Coins,Sterling Silver, Broken or Unwanted Jewelry
We “Turn On” Our Community Our electric utility “turns on” our community with not-for-profit electricity service. Around the clock it lights, cools, heats and powers our homes, businesses, and institutions. Our aim is to provide always-there electricity while holding down your costs, and giving you the best in customer care. That’s because we’re a not-for-profit “public power" electric utility, created and owned by our community.
City of Niles Utilities Department (269) 683-4700
*If your not sure just bring it in! d Vote
#1
South Bend Gold & Silver Exchange, Inc. 106 N. Main St. • South Bend, IN 46601
(574) 210-2636 Southbendgoldexchange.com
Your community-owned electric utility is at your service.
50 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Lifestyles Over 50
Caring for loved ones....
Giving you other options than nursing homes & assisted living • Elder Care • Hospice Care • Short Stay • Permanent • Respite • Competitive Monthly Rates
Kelli’s Cozy Care Owner: Kelli McHugh, R.N.
209 S. Cleveland Avenue, Galien, MI • (269) 449 - 0160
June 2012 • 51
Life Made Simple
Like
Family Specially Designed 1 Bedroom Apartments For Seniors and Disabled Persons
+ Services available 24 hours a day 7 days a week + Home Health Care & Staff Relief
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 12:30pm - 5:00pm
Mill Pond Apartments
800 E. Smith St., Buchanan • (269) 695-0475 Rent Based on Income • TDD: (800) 649-3777 Centrally located within walking distance of shopping, banking and medical offices. Furnished with major appliances and fully carpeted. Laundry in each building. Community room available for residents to gather and relax.
1125 E. Milham Ave., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49002
(269) 383-9112 • (800) 531-0272
Introducing Caretel Inns of Lakeland’s newest addition ®
Fullerton House Inn
269-684-2810
EADY TO RREADY OVE IN MOVE IN M
N
and PhysicalileTherapy sR d. Center! 63 Malden Ln.
!! MAY 2012! NOW
Hollywood Rd.
We value the concept that aging is not a decline, but a continuous stage of growth and development in a human life. We have made a commitment to create a culture that fosters warmth and growth for our employees and for our residents. Residents can enjoy deliciously prepared meals, beautiful courtyards, activity center with a kitchenette, multiple common areas for visiting with family, wireless internet, digital satellite TV, in house laundry and housekeeping, and church services just to name a few. Please Come See Us, No Appointments Necessary. 1211 State Line Rd., Niles, MI
E. Glenlord Rd.
STOP IN OR CALL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Caretel Inns specializes in: ®
• Skilled Nursing Care • Assisted Living • Memory Care
Other services:
• Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Short-Term Rehabilitation • Out-Patient Therapy
94
63
Caretel Inns
ST. JOSEPH Malden Ln. Hollywood Rd.
Is a family owned and operated long term care community. Our home offers private rooms, courtyards, and common areas for visiting families and friends.
Offering seniors more living options for Assisted Living, and will include Penny Lane, our indoor downtown, with hair salon, spa, gift shop, and a theatre. 94 Also, a new state-of63 the-art ST. JOSEPHOccupational
of Lakeland
Ni
le
sR
d.
63 E. Glenlord Rd.
Caretel Inns of Lakeland ®
3905 Lorraine Path (off Niles Road)
St. Joseph, MI 49085 • (269)428-1111
www.caretelinns.com
52 • June 2012
GOVERNMENT
Niles Township 320 Bell Rd., Niles, MI 49120 Phone: (269) 684-0870 Fax: (269) 684-1996 Website: www.nilestwpmi.gov Board meetings first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m
DEMOGRAPHICS
n Population: 13,325 n Race: — White: 93.3 percent — African-American: 3.03 percent — Hispanic/Latino: 1.92 percent — Median household income: $37,794
Life Made Simple
NILES TWP. LEGISLATORS
Sharon Tyler, R-Niles, state representative for District 78, Office Phone: (888) 373-0078, Mail: 1097 Anderson House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48909, Email: sharontyler@house.mi.gov. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, state senator for District 21, Office Phone: (517) 373-6966, Mail: P.O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909. U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., Sixth District, Office Phone: (202) 225-3761, Mail: 2183 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, Email: tellupton@mail.house.gov.
Leader Publications file photo
Fulkerson Park
Placing
A Fresh Take
People First
on dining
You and your family will enjoy dining in our beautifully restored, historic space. • Weekday menu & drink specials • Sunday Brunch • Banquet space available for private parties & gatherings • Craft Beers & Berrien County Wines
• Information Technology • Clerical • Professional & Technical • Accounting & Payroll • Office & Administration • Medical Office • Industrial & Manufacturing CELEBRATING
20 YEARS
OF STAFFING EXCELLENCE There's something for everyone at
219 N. Front St. Niles, MI 49120 For reservations call 269.684.2233
3371 West Cleveland Rd., Suite 120 South Bend, IN 46628 574-289-1454
223 East Main St., Niles, MI 49120 269-684-1454 WilliamsonEmployment.com
June 2012 • 53
Life Made Simple U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, DMich., Office Phone: (202) 2244822, Mail: 133 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Email: senator@stabenow.senate.gov. U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., Office Phone: (202) 224-6221, Mail: 459 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, Email: senator@levin. senate.gov. Gov. Rick Snyder, R-MI, Office Phone: (517) 335-7858, Mail: P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, MI 48909
PARKS
n Community Park, 1505 Bond Street — Baseball/softball field, playground equipment, picnic tables and grills, hiking trails along Brandywine Creek, trout fishing, community park building that can continued page 54
Leader Publications file photo
Pucker Street Dam
Let us help you
enjoy these great
every moment
values!
Weekday
PRESERVE We have a selection of great products for all of your scrapbooking & paper crafting needs.
Stickers & Brads Eyelets & Embellishments Rubber & Acrylic Stamps Ink &
683-3008 www.NilesScrapbooking.com
2830 S. 11th St. . Niles
Mon-Thurs 11am to 11pm
Monday- 49¢ Wing & domestic Bottle Specials
TueSday- Chicken Tenders, domectic draft Specials & Fri & Sat 11am to Midnight Imports
Sunday 11am to 10 pm
WedneSday- Shrimp & 34 oz Schooner Specials ThurSday- Boneless Wings & 60 oz Pitcher Specials
sports, Beer 683-9464 & jumBo Wings 2008 S. 11th St. • Niles
www.wingsetc.net/locations/wings_niles.html
54 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
continued from page 53 accommodate approximately 75 people and is available for rent on a first come-first serve basis. n Losensky Park, M-51 North and Pucker Street — Picnic tables, grills and benches, waterfront of Dowagiac Creek n South Fireman’s Park, directly behind the Township Hall on Bell Road — Host park for Cal-Ripken Baseball Program and the NilesBrandywine girl’s softball. Concessions sold during the season, also includes play structures, tennis courts, picnic tables, grills and one pavilion for use at no charge. n North Fireman’s Park, off M-51 — Playground equipment, benches, grills, picnic shelter.
POLICE AND FIRE
Berrien County Sheriff’s Department Niles Township Patrol:
(866) 630-7679 Fire: (269) 683-3311
HOT SPOT EATERY
Municipal Utilities Department of Public Works Located: 320 Bell Rd., Niles Phone: (269) 684-0870
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Website: www.nilestwpmi.gov
Blueberry Hill House of Pancakes 1109 S. 11th St. (269) 684-7400 Known for omelets and, of course, pancakes
SCHOOLS
Brandywine Community Schools 1830 S. Third St., Niles Contact: (269) 684-7150, brandywine.schoolfusion.us
SENIOR CENTER
Greater Niles Senior Center 1109 Bell Rd. (269) 683-9380
UTILITIES
Electricity Indiana Michigan Power Phone: (800) 311-6424 Website: www.indianamichiganpower.com
Niles Township photo
Brandywine Creek Nature Park
ACOUSTIC AUDIO HEARING SERVICE Our Family Serving Yours Since 1957 Michiana’s oldest and largest hearing aid providers “YOU WILL HEAR THE DIFFERENCE”
Apples & Oranges Are Not The Same... Hearing Aid Providers Are Not The Same.
Taking Schools of Choice Applications for the 2012-2013 school year K-12 grades, including Alternative and Adult Education Programs with on-site child care. Wayne Thomas, Pamula Guard, Stephen Thomas, Adam Thomas & Dr. Linda Murphy
WE PROVIDE
Service for those with - IntravelHomeconcerns Standard Warranty - 2onYear Mainline Products - Doctor of Audiology on Staff - 55 Years of continuous service
Merritt and Brandywine
Elementary Schools: a great place to start!
Brandywine Middle/Senior High School:
right size; right opportunities!
• 7 period class day • Full Day • Promoting all students Kindergarten to have a strong aca• Small school experience without demic foundation • Providing students a the private school wide range of educacost tional opportunities
Brandywine Community Schools:
the right choice!
We are dedicated to full service & will match anyone’s price Apples for Apples.
Good Hearing Isn’t Expensive.
IT’S PRICELESS!
Call us for a “No Charge” hearing screening in our office or your home.
574-287-7221 • 1-800-288-7221 269-273-7237 • Three Rivers, MI 808 South Michigan, South Bend, IN
1170 W. Michigan Ste 6
www.acoustic-audio.com
574-534-7630 • Goshen, IN 721 E. Madison Ste 3
Brandywine Community Schools 1830 S. 3rd Street Niles, MI 49120 269-684-7150
www.brandywinebobcats.org
Life Made Simple
June 2012 • 55
WEEKEND NEW
B U F F A LO / T H R E E
OAKS
There are only eight towns in the official region of Harbor Country: Michiana, Grand Beach, New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert and Sawyer. Located in the southwest corner of Berrien County, the Harbor Country region stretches 15 miles north from the Michigan state line and inland six miles to Three Oaks. Harbor Country does not extend beyond these eight quaint towns. This little unsuspecting corner of southwest Michigan has become a destination of choice for travelers who want to experience lifestyles that are seemingly frozen in time, when things were simple, less complicated. Here you will only find the inconvenience of small-town life that is not panicked by the lack of technology or the instant gratification of cosmopolitan amenities.
James Jackson's work, "Hand's Off," left corner, is one of many pieces featured at The Courtyard Gallery, 813 E. Buffalo St., in New Buffalo. See story page 55.
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— Courtesy of Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce website: www.harborcountry.org.
56 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Gallery features sculptures by James Jackson The Courtyard Gallery, 813 E. Buffalo St., in New Buffalo is featuring the work of James Jackson, a lifetime resident of West Michigan who resides in Kalamazoo. This graduate of Western
Michigan University is a painter, sculptor, inventor, husband and grandfather. His work is imbued with themes such as nature and personal balance. The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, has con-
signed four pieces of his work since 1994. Collectors from as far away as Russia and Brazil own his works. His sculptures can be seen throughout southern Michigan, including the 26-ton entrance sign between St. Joseph
and Benton Harbor, for example, or on the campus of Lake Michigan College. As a child, Jackson foraged through junkyards and began working with steel, but his continued page 58
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Licensed 24 Hour Care for Seniors. Affordable rates. Niles area. (269)683-3481
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25 years of experience, tile work kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks & porches, replacement windows & doors, window wrapping, siding, fascia & soffit. Free estimates. Insured! Randy (269)782-3139 (269)208-9838
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Excavation DAVE’S HAULING & BOBCAT SERVICE
Pole barn & other garages specialist. Roofing Siding, Framing and more. Over 25 years experience. Licensed. Contact Michael N. Knepple (269)476-9777
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Topsoil, Stone, R/C Concrete, Beach Sand (574)298-9858
Various jobs etc., including General Clean-Up, Pressure washing. Insured & Bonded. (269)462-3121 or (574)294-7532
Miscellaneous
Trash, cars, trucks, boats, EXPERT CLOCK boat trailers, lawn mowers, rototillers, batteries, any REPAIR metals, etc. Free Estimates. 45 years experience. In (269)663-5595 home service of grandfather clocks. Free estimates. We buy old clocks. Larry Home Improvement Shingledecker (269)435HOME REPAIRS & 7228
EPDM Rubber, Any size Lowest Prices, FREE Delivery, Huge Inventory, TRM Enterprises, South Bend. (574)246-1922 (574) 3299294
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Residential/Commercial. Life-time warrantied shingles. Senior discounts. (269)782-9491
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ROOFING,FRYMAN’S SEAMLESS GUTTERS & SIDING Your home exterior experts. Quality guaranteed. (269)7825008 (David & Terri Fryman)
Complete Int./Ext., 269-471-5326. Senior citizens discount. Free Est. Certified Ben Moore Deck Specialist www.realpainters.com. swmpaint@gmail.com
Pool Service SWIMMING POOL LINERS & REPAIRS
Any size, great prices, all equipment, 35 years experience. Robertson’s Sales & Service, Niles. Call (269)6842669
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Tree trimming topping & removal, stump grinding. Free Estimates. Credit cards accepted. (574)596-6995
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Trees, brush, stump removal, high lift work, insured. (269)362-4331 or 683-1065 leave msg.
THE RIGHT CHOICE... FOR SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN 888.725.0108
217 N. Fourth St.
Niles, Michigan
www.leaderpub.com
Life Made Simple
June 2012 • 57
58 • June 2012 continued from page 56 career in metal sculpture began after high school, when he got a job at the Gray Iron Factory where his father and uncles had worked for many years – molding, casting and tempering metals, building his metallurgy and engineering skills. Isolated in the loud factory, he discovered a love of working with steel and, inspired by the possibilities, he wondered how he could apply those skills in a more fulfilling career and before beginning his college education. For two years, he studied premetals engineering at Ferris State College before dropping out in 1960, disillusioned by the inability of the curriculum to match his passion for working with metal. As he continued his education at Western Michigan University, he spent the next several years working as a counselor, track and football coach for Kalamazoo College. For more information, call (800) 291-9287.
Life Made Simple C O L O MA /WAT E RV L I ET The Paw Paw Lakes have been a longtime tourist destination along with the beautiful farmland, rolling hills, quaint shops and wineries. There is something for everyone, which makes the Coloma and Watervliet Area a wonderful place to live, work and play. Come visit our area and see for yourself why we really are a tourist destination for all seasons.
The Coloma Watervliet Area Chamber of Commerce strives to promote the local businesses in the Coloma and Watervliet Area. This chamber is a joint chamber that serves both Coloma and Watervliet. — Courtesy of Coloma-Watervliet Chamber of Commerce website: www.coloma-watervliet.org.
Deer Forest Fun Park offers fun for families. Leader Publications file photo
June 2012 • 59
Life Made Simple BRIDGMAN The Bridgman Area Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to step inside our great community. Imagine yourself relaxing on the beach listening to our summer concert series. Or enjoying taps at sunset. Or enjoying a morning coffee while enjoying a Lake Michigan view at our Weko Beach House. The jewel of southwest Michigan. These are just some of the many activities available to you at Bridgman, exit 16 off I-94. The communities of Bridgman area include Baroda, Bridgman, Lake Township and Sawyer. We have much to offer: varied businesses, exemplary schools and services that are first class. — Courtesy of Bridgman Area Chamber of Commerce: www. bridgmanarea.org.
GET AWAY from the EVERYDAY! Whether it’s for the weekend or the whole season, Fuller’s Resort is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of summer with family & friends.
• Log Cabin & Cottage Rental • Full Hook up & Primitive Campsites • Rental Trailers • Ice Cream
• Concession Pavillion • Recreation Barn • Fishing • Swimming Area & Beach • Boat, Canoe, & Kayak Rental
1622 East Clear Lake Road • Buchanan, MI 49107 For more information and reservations:
269-695-3785 or www.fullersresort.com
Coloma JUNE 2012 Coloma BBQ Blues and Cruise 2012 • June 16 • Baker Park Downtown Coloma Bring your family, friends, lawn chairs and appetites to this non-alcoholic, free event, sponsored by the area merchants. JULY 2012 Maud Nelson / Independence Weekend Celebration June 29-July 1 Fireworks, delicious food, parades and women’s baseball highlight this fun filled weekend. There is also a very popular Duck Race, Airport Fly-In, pancake breakfast and Fun Walk and Run. Castles and Cottages Tour of Homes on Paw Paw Lake, Saturday, July 28 • 10 a.m to 4 p.m. The tour begins at Paw Paw Lake Yacht Club. Eight homes are featured this year. Travel by car or pontoon boat. For more information visit www.lakelandhealth.org/castlesandcottage. AUGUST 2012 Coloma Glad Peach Festival always the first full weekend in August. Aug. 3-5 The Coloma Glad-Peach Festival is an annual celebration of the gladiolus flowers and peaches, which are both grown locally. Events include live music on two stages, a classic car show and an aerial fireworks display.
From left, Brooke Chapla, of Goshen, Ind.; Amy Law, of Edwardsburg; and Erin Miner, of Sawyer, relax and listen to music at the 2010 Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival. Leader Publications file photo
60 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
SOUTH BEND/MISHAWAKA/ GRANGER With a population of 104,905, South Bend is the fourth-largest city in Indiana, the county seat and the largest city in St. Joseph County. It is a college town with a rich history that also boasts a strong and diversified economy, as well as plentiful arts and entertainment possibilities. And now it is an All-America City, designated by the National Civic League (June 2011). Known as a civic Oscar, the All-America city designation is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious community award. Each year, a panel of national judges looks at cities that demonstrate innovation and showcase successful civic efforts. Leader Publications file photo
Notre Dame
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LeaderPub.com Bridgman
• Michigan Wines • Fresh Cut Meats • Specialty Sausages & Gourmet Burgers • Seafood
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Sample over 30 hand-crafted beers from Michigan’s best breweries on the beautiful Lake Michigan Shore!
BREWERIES, LIVE MUSIC & GREAT FOOD
More at wekobeachbrewersfest.com or call Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council 269.925.6301
Life Made Simple June 2012 • 61 Just miles from the shore of Lake Michigan and the Indiana border, Three Oaks is home to the Flag Day Festival, great shops, farmers market, galleries, restaurants, horseback riding, and more!
Music in the Park 2012
Expresso Drinks Coffee Fresh Raw Juices Sandwiches & Wraps
11 S. Elm Street
(269) 756-9111
Saturdays at 6:30 pm at Dewey Cannon Park
June 16 June 23 June 30 July 7 July 14 July 21 July 28 Aug. 4 Aug. 11 Aug. 18 Aug. 25 Sept. 1
South Shore Concert Band Stacey Koziel WRHC - Danny Schmidt Columbia College - Jazz The Concern Young Shakespeare Columbia College - R&B Mojo Daddy Unraveling String Band Los Bandits de Michigan Shades of Gray Best of Pastiche
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14 South Elm Street
Shop and explore the Historic Featherbone Factory We specialize in Hand-Crafted Concrete Garden/Stepping Stones, offering the Midwest’s Largest Selection! • Concrete stepping stones over 250 designs • Hand blown glass gazing balls • Bird baths & gazing ball stands • Pottery • Unique items for home and garden • Copper weather vanes Hours: Mon-Sat 10am - 5pm Sunday 2pm - 5pm
(269) 756-3101
BREAKFAST • LUNCH FRESH BAKED GOODS Open Mon 7am-2pm Wed-Sat 7am-3pm • Sun 7am-1pm 102 N. Elm Street • (269) 756-9420
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62 • June 2012
Life Made Simple
Mishawaka, known as the Princess City, has a population of 50,126 and is situated along the St. Joseph River. A truly impressive retail hub is located in Mishawaka, along the Grape Road/Main Street corridor. Beginning at University Park Mall and heading south, a wide array of shops and restaurants has shaped the area into the second largest regional retail center in the state of Indiana. New developments happen continuously, and according to city officials the Grape/Main corridor will grow until they run out of room. A collection of attractive commercial business parks also highlights Mishawaka’s north side. Granger is a non-incorporated Census Designated Place with a population of 28,333. Located in the northeast part of St. Joseph County in Harris Township, Granger is fast becoming the new housing center of the county. Students from this area attend PennHarris-Madison schools. — Courtesy of Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County website: www.sjchamber.org.
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Leader Publications file photo Art and Marie Walawender sell produce at their booth at the South Bend Farmer’s Market.
Couple finds love among market's fresh produce By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert@leaderpub.com
You
SOUTH BEND FARMER’S MARKET
can find just about anything at the South Bend Farmer’s Where: 1105 Northside Market. Blvd. in South Bend Hours: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Even love. Tuesday and Thursday; 7 Just ask vendor and a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and 7 market manager Marie a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Walawender. Call: (574) 282-1259 LIst of vendors: Visit “It’s true,” said southbendfarmers Walawender, who has market.com been a seller at the market for 56 years. She was selling produce when she met her future husband, Art, a regular customer of the market. The pair was married on Dec. 7, about nine years ago, in front of the booth where Marie sells produce. You can find them there most days together selling fresh asparagus, tomatoes and anything else grown on their farm north of Dowagiac. “I think it’s a neat story,” Marie said. While most people won’t find love at the South Bend Farmer’s Market, they are likely to find
some of the best produce in Michiana. Since 1924, the market has been known as a great place to purchase farm-grown fruits and vegetables, a variety of cheeses, eggs, meat, fresh fish and lamb, artisan baked goods, flowers, plants and jewelry. “The produce is fresh as it gets, picked one day and brought in the next day during the growing season,” Marie said.
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64 • June 2012
Life Made Simple