Michiana Life - Issue Two

Seeing

Double Michiana moms weigh in on experience of raising twins

Caffeinated ambience Grabbing a cup of coffee about more than just the beverage

Farm to Fork Rocky River Tap & Table serving up fresh, local cuisine

Michiana Life | 1 WINTER 2015

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Welcome to The Boulevard.

Whether your travel to Southwest Michigan is for business or pleasure, our staff welcomes every opportunity to exceed your expectations!

Quaint shops, gorgeous beaches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, and an abundance of dining options are just a short walk from our hotel.

521 Lake Boulevard, Saint Joseph, Michigan 49085 Phone: 269.983.6600 I FAX: 269.983.0520 www.theboulevardinn.com

Michiana Life | 3

Publisher

Michael Caldwell

Managing Editor Ambrosia Neldon

Creative Department Anne Johnson Cricket Nelson Chelsey Erickson

Contributors

Craig Haupert Scott Novak Ted Yoakum Amelio Rodriguez Lori Baxter Nick Shelton Melinda Cooper Melissa Rogers Samantha Hegeman Dorothy Engelhardt Kelly Sweeney

Marketing

Sherina Gonzalez Phil Langer Nicole Bates Libby Myers Donna Knight Dayna Coquillard Krystal Pipke

Contact Information Leader Publications 217 N. 4th Street Niles, MI 49120 www.MichianaLife.com info@michianalife.com

Advertising Inquiries (269) 683-2100

Editorial Inquiries

XX | Michiana Life (269) 4 | Michiana Life

687-7713

Seeing

Double

Michiana moms experience of raiweigh in on sing twins

Caffeinated ambience

Grabbing a cup of coffee about more than just the bevera ge

Farm to Fork

Rocky River Tap & Table serving up fres h, local cuisine WINTER 2015

On the Cover

Motherhood is considered an amazing journey, but these Michiana moms get to experience parenting on an entirely new level: with twins. Find out about the challenges and joys that come along with raising multiples from some moms who have experienced it firsthand. See page 42.

Photo by Lori Baxter/Lori Diane Photography

10

What’s Inside?

Arts & Culture

Features

10 Artist Spotlight:

34 Caffeinated Ambience

Joshua Nowicki

42 Raising Twins

14 Have You Been Spotted?

19 Things to Do

Homes

Shopping

The Oliver Mansion

50 Showcase:

20 In the Biz:

57 DIY: Envelope Pillow Case

Lipstick Jungle 25 Local Treasures

Food 58 In the Kitchen: Rocky River Tap & Table

In Every Issue 11 Publisher’s Note 19 Purely Michiana: Swiss Valley Ski & Resort 28 How To: Keep Your Weight Loss Goals 30 Difference Makers: Kellie Montgomery 62 Word on the Street 66 Why I Love Michiana

62 From the Cookbook

25 34

50

28

58

Michiana Life | 5

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Building on our successes — with your help

I

t is safe to say that, by all measures, the premier issue of Michiana Life was a resounding success, and we are ready to kick off 2015 with a bang!

The first issue of the magazine launched in late fall and was greeted with tremendous response from readers, advertisers and subscribers. More than 8,000 copies were mailed or picked up within about two weeks.

Most of our free pick-up locations required multiple refills and are now running low or are out once again.

That is a good problem to have!

We encourage readers who want to ensure they don’t miss an issue to subscribe to the magazine. It costs only $16 for an annual subscription. This is a bargain that barely covers the mailing costs and doesn’t even factor in the production expense. Plus, you get the convenience of having it delivered directly to your doorstep.

Now is the time to join in and learn about the great shopping, dining, arts, culture and people here in Michiana.

Despite this great response, do not think for one second we are content with our initial success.

The issue you now hold in your hands, our second, is head and shoulders better than the first one and we are already hard at work ensuring that the third issue will be the best yet.

And so it goes.

Our goal is to raise the bar each issue and, quite simply, to demand excellence from our writers, our photographers, our graphic designers and even our advertisers.

We listened to feedback and have done lots of serious self-reflection to help ensure we’re putting out the best magazine possible to showcase southwest Michigan and northern Indiana.

We feel our focus on the amazing people who call this region home will be what ultimately sets us apart from our competition.

So, let us know what you think. What parts of the magazine do you love? What areas or features would you like to see improved? What type of content would you like to see us add?

What makes Michiana special for you?

Reflecting our readers and the special region we call home is the main focus of Michiana Life. Using your voice and providing feedback is a vital part of that concept.

Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana is your community and we truly want Michiana Life to be your magazine. v

— Michael Caldwell, Publisher

MICHAEL CALDWELL is the publisher and president of Leader Publications LLC. A native of eastern Kentucky, he has been in the publishing business for more than 15 years and has launched several community magazines.

Moving to Michiana in 2013, he lives in Niles, Michigan, with his wife and two daughters.

So, what do you think? We want to know!

Give us your feedback on the inaugural edition of Michiana Life. What sections did you like?

What would you like to see included? Do you have story ideas for one of our standing features?

Our goal is to create a magazine that our readers enjoy and look forward to each issue.

Let us know what you think makes Michiana special.

Snail Mail: 217 N. 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 | E-mail: feedback@michianalife.com 6 | Michiana Life

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Michiana Life | 7 www.tylerchevroletcadillac.com

PURELY MICHIANA

slopes Hit the

Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Resort perfect for beginners, experienced athletes Story by Dorothy Engelhardt

J

ONES, Mich. — Michigan winters are infamous for their unpredictability.

One season Michiana natives may see mountains of snow that seem to never melt and other years residents experience a green Christmas.

Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Resort has a solution for that.

Beginning every November, the resort staff makes sure that snow-lovers are able to experience a winter wonderland for the duration of the season, despite Mother Nature’s fickle tendencies.

With both natural and man-made snow as far as the eye can see, snowboarders and skiers can explore the slopes or sip on hot chocolate to keep warm. Sounds of 8 | Michiana Life

children laughing can be heard throughout the park as families take their first steps on skis, learning from one of the staffers how to try out the sport at Swiss Valley, where the owners pride themselves on the park’s family-friendliness.

“Our first generation of guests are now bringing their grandchildren,” said Jamie Stafne, one of founder Jim Wiseman’s daughters and marketing director for the resort.

Wiseman started teaching families to ski when he opened the resort in 1968, and he and his family have carried on the tradition ever since.

What can visitors expect when they visit Swiss Valley?

There are 11 runs and two terrain parks with chair lifts and surface tows. There are changing facilities, a ski and snowboard

shop and Café 225, which offers cafeteriastyle, grab-and-go goodies. The Chalet Restaurant offers food, spirits, a view of the slopes and live weekend entertainment.

Most visitors have fond memories of the fireplace lounge where they can warm up every day that the slopes are open.

Snow sports lessons provided by certified instructors are available for all ages.

To put it simply, Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Resort tries to offer something for everyone.

At less than 40 minutes from the South Bend area and an hour from St. Joseph, Swiss Valley is the perfect destination for Michiana families who want to get out of the house and learn something new together, and the Wiseman family is happy to carry its tradition of fun into its fifth decade. v

“New Buffalo is full of hidden natural treasures like the Lighthouse Creek Trails.

These quiet trails are easy to hike and lead you through the city and township and along the lake.”

— Denise Tuszynski

“You get better deals at the stores, hotels and restaurants in the winter than in the summer.”

Mary Jo Kelly

Why should people visit New Buffalo in the winter?

“Most businesses are open all year round, and Whittaker House gets new things all year round. A lot of the business are open seven days a week, and there are some winter festivals that draw out-of-towners in.”

“There is a lot of unique shopping, and in the winter you can do it at a comfortable pace. There are some great places to relax and just enjoy the beauty of winter.”

Kurt Freedman

“New Buffalo was not only gifted with sand dunes, a river and a Great Lake, but a glacier ran through it. The Lake Border Morainic system is one of the most beautiful and diverse places in the world!”

— Pat Fisher

Ashley Carson

“There’s the usual winter fun — shopping, really good sledding. Of course we have good restaurants and the Four Winds Casino here in New Buffalo, and the lake is awfully pretty when it’s covered in ice.”

— Kathy Kochs

“It’s a different dynamic from the summer. It is so much more relaxed.”

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Our staff is trained and ready to assist any resident with all daily living activities.

We pride ourselves in the attention we give each resident and our dedication to lending a helping hand. Your loved one will be cared for and cared about.

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Michiana Life | 9

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

BEHIND THE

LENS St. Joe photographer creating iconic images of Michiana

Story by Michael Caldwell | Photos by Joshua Nowicki

J

oshua Nowicki bounces easily across the beach, deftly dodging tall grass and sand dunes. He barely takes his eye from the viewfinder of the digital camera pressed firmly against his red-bearded face.

Beneath blue skies on a perfect fall day, he lines up the iconic St. Joseph Lighthouse on Lake Michigan and snaps away, capturing yet another postcard-worthy image to add to the impressive portfolio the self-taught photographer has amassed in a short amount of time.

The 35-year-old is confident and self-assured while behind the lens, but turn the camera on him and he

10 | Michiana Life

visibly gets uncomfortable. In fact, the Grand Rapids native is averse to having his own photo taken at all, instead preferring to preserve the aura of mystery and anonymity that surrounds someone who has built a reputation as one of the best outdoor photographers in southwest Michigan.

Josh could be called somewhat of an overnight success — but more than 30 years in the making.

With a master’s degree in anthropology, Josh worked for several museums in the state before taking a job as the director of community relations at the Krasl Arts Center in St. Joseph in 2011.

Michiana Life | 11

It was the start of an unexpected deviation in his path toward a career for which he has never had any formal training.

“When I moved here I was trying to encourage people to come visit me and was posting a few photos on Facebook,” he said. “My father decided one day that I needed an actual camera instead of just borrowing my wife’s point and shoot. In February 2012 I got my first camera of my own.”

Continuing to shoot nature photographs, Josh soon took his developing craft to the next level by immersing himself in the natural beauty of southwest Michigan.

“I like the water. I grew up fishing and spending a lot of time camping and outdoors.

Being here, especially after coming from the metro Detroit area, to get a chance to be right next to lake, it is so nice. The sunsets are gorgeous. It is very inspiring,” he said.

“With my wife’s point and shoot I was just going out and taking photos of sunsets and in the winter a lot of the snow and things like that. It just kind of took off. The more of a response I got the more I was encouraged to get out there more and more. One day I just decided, I left my job at the Krasl Art Center and dove into photography.”

Although he still does some work for museums and oversees social media for a few local companies, Josh has become well known around the region for his photographs of Lake Michigan, the communities along the coast and the St. Joseph Lighthouse. He also shoots food photography for area restaurants, and assists with weddings and does 12 | Michiana Life

some portraiture and architectural photos.

Although it may be his use of perspective and composition that many believe helps set him apart from other photographers, Josh is more humble in attributing his success to just getting outside and taking lots of photographs.

“Frequency is a lot of it. I go out almost every day. I have something to post up, sometimes, two, three, four photos I put online a day. A lot of it just has to do with people can expect that — no matter what the weather is or what the circumstances is — I will be out there somewhere taking photos,” he said, adding that his 7-year-old daughter sometimes accompanies him on these adventures.

Josh’s advice to aspiring photographers is to simply “put yourself out there” and make sure people see a variety of work. He shares hundreds of photos on Facebook and his personal website at joshuanowicki.smugmug. com.

It also doesn’t hurt to have a good support system. The encouragement from his parents has meant a lot and has been a big part of his interest in photography.

“A big motivation, other than just enjoying the outdoors, for deciding to really jump into photography, is my mother has early onset Alzheimer’s,” he said. “To look at my parents now and the things they wish they would have done that they can no longer do really motivated me try to take advantage of trying something before you miss that opportunity and you regret what you missed in life.” v

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Be a part of the dream as it turns into a reality.

The Expo Arena at the Berrien County Youth Fair will be a 6.1 acre complex that will serve as a venue for horse shows, big-name concerts, livestock shows, trade shows, conventions and assemblies, wedding receptions, proms, house & garden shows, circuses, farm implement shows, tractor pulls, and much more!

For more information, please contact Jack Strayer, Director of Development & Marketing Expo Arena at the Berrien County Youth Fair 9122 Old U.S. 31, P.O. Box 7, Berrien Springs, MI 49103 (269) 473-1662 • Fax (269) 473-4203 www.expoarena.org

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Michiana Life | 13

YOU’VE BEEN

YMCA Thanksgiving Day Turkey Run volunteers Autumn Mehl, Barbie Pecoraro, Monica Thompson, Sue Mikel and Melissa Curtis.

LEFT TO RIGHT: YMCA employees Lacey Peters and Tia Parker stand with Anne and Jon Schrader. Tom Richardson, Brittany Litka, Veronica Popol, Madeline Copeland, Alicia Boyce, Jeff Kyles, Arlene Richardson, William Pratt and Taiten Polly.

14 | Michiana Life

Thanksgiving Day Run Photos by Kelly Sweeney

Niles-Buchanan YMCA Niles, Michigan Nov. 27, 2014

Tammy Stepien (turkey) and Dale McGregor (turkey security).

Jennifer, Tiffany, Adelle, Anna and Adam Prosser, all of Niles.

Jessie, John, Jenny, Keith, Kassiey, and Kim Siek, all from St. Joseph.

LEFT: Garett Hotouy, Masyn Hotouy, J.R. Hotouy, Becky Hotouy, Jessica Disterheft of Eau Claire.

RIGHT: Dave Bosch and Bob Dunnuck

Kristin Anderson, Rachel Eddy and Sherina Gonzalez.

Thanksgiving Day Run participants take off for the 2014 Turkey Run. Michiana Life | 15

Expo for Women: Ladies Day Out 2014 Photos by Amelio Rodriguez

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Marissa Wallace and Baylie Queener, two teen fashion models; Venus Oren and John Oren (South Bend Vein & Cosmetic Center); Beverly Neto (Mary Kay), Becky Brown (Edward Jones) and Nikki Bush (Cressy & Everett), all part of Premier Women’s Network; Adrienne Mariano and Melanie Byrdak (It Works) and Blair Herrman and Erin Brandes (Integrative Health & Wellness); Dan Allen and Virginia Marie (DJ DA Mobile).

16 | Michiana Life

South Bend, Indiana Nov. 20, 2014

Cindy Cohen (event organizer), Shauna Brown, Molly Radkay, Bonnie Blair, Ross Ford (all event staff).

ABOVE: Stephanie Black, Katie Hayes and Chelsea Hitt (Above All Chiropractic), Cindy Black and Sandra Grandy; RIGHT: Niles’ Miss Teen Blossomtime 2014, Allie Turtle, modeling in the Women’s Expo fashion show.

Michiana Life | 17

YOU’VE BEEN

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Jackie Leckavicius, Elisabeth Hendrick, Susan Sakara and Kerri Trapp (Lipstick Jungle); Lynette Bemiller, Madison Pyke and Brigette Stump; B100’s Brittney Baily & Deb Miles (Cody & Deb in the Morning) were the emcees for the Women’s Expo.

Community Of Action

18 | Michiana Life

Have you thought about playing a greater role in our community? Many people today are seeking ways to give back. Maybe you want to be more involved but don’t know where to start.

Why not stop by one of our locations or call the Cass County COA? We have so many ways for you to use your talent and time in meaningful ways.

You will also have the chance to become part of a community of like-minded people who are helping others.

Lowe Center Front Street Crossing 60525 Decatur Rd. 227 S. Front Street Cassopolis, MI 49031 Dowagiac, MI 49047

Join us. Work with us as we strive to accomplish our goal of “Enhancing Life” for all.

(800) 323-0390 (269) 445-8110 www.CassCOA.org facebook.com/CassCOA

Call today. Your community is waiting.

O D O T S G THIN

Plan ahead with fun happenings across Michiana

J A N U A R Y J A N U A R Y FEBRUARY FEBRUARY

30

30-31

CHILI CRAWL

THRILL ON THE HILL

The third annual Chili Tour will be the last Friday of January in downtown St. Joseph from 5 to 8 p.m. Participating locations, or “chili stops,” will play host as guests have the opportunity to try different recipes. Most are chili recipes, but visitors will find chiliinspired desserts and hot beverages mixed in as well.

The fourth annual Thrill on the Hill returns to Buchanan Jan. 30-31. The event will feature tubing on the East Front Street hill, which will be closed from Liberty Street on the east to Redbud Trail on the west for the creation of tubing runs that will be the heart of the event.

St. Joseph, Michigan

Buchanan, Michigan

Harbor Country, Michigan

Cozy up with chocolate in Harbor Country as more than 30 businesses offer a variety of chocolate inducements the entire month of February. Culinary venues will offer everything from chocolate-chip pancakes, handmade truffles, and chocolate-covered bacon, to chocolate-enhanced wine and locally brewed specialty beer.

More information is available at HarborCountry.org.

MARCH

20

FEBRUARY

7

ART HOP

Benton Harbor, Michigan

ICE TIME FESTIVAL Dowagiac, Michigan

Artisans compete for cash prizes as they carve more than 20,000 pounds of ice into life-size ballerinas, skiers bicyclists and more at Dowagiac Ice Time 2015 on Saturday, Feb. 7. Visitors can participate in an ice cream eating contest, watch wood and ice carvers, participate in a chili cook-off and more.

CHOCOLATE CLASSIC

A district-wide open house with special art exhibits, receptions, complimentary refreshments, food and drink specials, and live music will take over the arts district in Benton Harbor. Visit newterritoryarts.org for more information.

MARCH

28

ICE TIME FESTIVAL South Bend, Indiana

Join Downtown South Bend for its annual Easter celebration, featuring events such as the Bunny Breakfast, kids crafts, egg and sack races, face painting, cookie decorating and a cash egg hunt. More information is available at downtownsouthbend. com.

6-7

MAGICAL ICE FEST St. Joseph, Michigan

Enjoy a weekend of winter fun in downtown St. Joseph. Weekend activities include individual and team ice carving competitions, the return of Ice Wars presented by the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council, and the Snow Biz Scavenger Hunt.

MARCH

21

ART OF BEER FESTIVAL Benton Harbor, Michigan

Celebrate great American craft beers during the 6th Annual Art of Beer Festival at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center. Craft brewers from across Michigan will have a wide range of fresh and unique beers of all colors, styles and tastes for everyone to sample while enjoying live music and delicious food.

APRIL

24-26 ART ATTACK! Harbor Country, Michigan Enjoy a full palette of colorful activities featuring a weekend showcase of gallery receptions, artists’ demonstrations, exhibitions, theatre, music, wine tasting, open houses and more.

Michiana Life | 19

IN THE BIZ

PURE relaxation Lipstick Jungle puts the ‘ahh’ in spa Story and photos by Craig Haupert

N

ILES, Mich. — Behind an oversized counter, Susan Sakara greets customers to Lipstick Jungle Spa with a warm smile.

The snowflake chandelier above her casts the reception area in a soft white light, enhancing the soothing effect of walls painted in underseas blue, a color chosen by Sakara for its calming tone.

The air is filled with the scent of Nag Champa incense, an Indian fragrance containing frangipani and sandalwood known by some for its meditative and spiritual qualities.

By the time a customer sits down for a pedicure, it is likely he or she is already feeling the stress of daily life slip away.

“We want people to have an experience of pure relaxation,” Sakara said. “It is such a fast-paced world out there that people really need a place where they can escape that and totally relax.”

Sakara opened the spa/hair salon in 2005 at the historic 1926 Four Flags Hotel, located at the corner of Fourth and Main streets in downtown Niles, Michigan. Built in 1926, the hotel served as the cultural center of Niles for most of the 20th Century and is reputed to have hosted Al Capone, Eleanor Roosevelt, Knute Rockne and Truman Capote, among others.

The main “salon” area of the spa is located in the hotel’s open-air former ballroom, whose original Terazzo floor is bathed most hours in natural sunlight coming from several inset windows on the south wall.

There are a half dozen other tastefully decorated private rooms tucked away from the main area dedicated to pedicures, massages, air tanning, hydrafacials and body wraps.

20 | Michiana Life

Michiana Life | 21

Ulrike McCarty has been unwinding with the spa’s hard-to-find services for the past five years.

Her first foray was an air tan and pedicure in preparation for a winter getaway. Since then, she has found pleasure in the spa’s other offerings, like hydrafacials and power skin, a treatment used to improve the appearance of the face and body naturally and painlessly.

She visits Lipstick Jungle three or four times a month.

“I am just glad I found the place,” said the Buchanan resident. “It is one of those that you don’t really know is there. Once you’ve found it, it is hard to imagine not having it.”

That’s exactly the type of reaction Sakara is hoping for.

A Niles native and practicing raw vegan, Sakara said she has always been interested in hair, nails, makeup and healthy living.

She spent 10 years working in spa development and training at a resort in San Diego before returning to Niles to open Lipstick Jungle a decade ago.

“I knew so many people who were not able to have the experience of going to a spa at a large resort,” she said. “I wanted to offer that 22 | Michiana Life

here without the high price tag.”

To enhance the experience, Lipstick Jungle Spa clients are treated to complimentary hand and neck massages with a side of tea during treatments.

“I don’t think we are a typical salon. It is a real relaxing atmosphere rather than the high-energy loud setting,” Sakara said. “We are a spa first and a salon second.”

“Right now we have five people, but there are some things in the works that could possibly employ more,” she said.

Sakara’s staff includes Sara Bevans, Esta Morlan, Courtney Couty, Elisabeth Hendrick and Jackie Leckavicius. Each have their own specialties, but work in various area of the spa and salon.

Clients can also find all-natural hair and make-up products, including Sakara’s own line of products in the store.

A comprehensive list of services and products can be found online at lipstickjunglespa.com.

Whether you are coming in for a hairstyle or an algae wrap, Sakara wants you to leave feeling better than you came.

“We greet people like they are family coming to our home.” v

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Michiana Life | 23 ci.niles.mi.us

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DON’T MISS ALL THE COLD-WEATHER FUN IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOSEPH! StJoeToday.com OPEN ICE SKATING

through mid march john and dede howard ice rink

bring your valentine to the

sweetheart skate 24 | Michiana Life pm FEB. 14 • 7-10

magicalicefest.com

FEB. 6-8

light up the bluff

lights remain on through Feb. 15

MAGICAL ICE FEST

frosty fun all weekend long!

www.jeaseniorliving.com

grab your girlfriends for 3 days of funtastic events!

MARCH 13, 14 & 15

BUILD YOUR WAY AROUND TOWN

THE place to beat the coldweather blues

workshops! contests! displays! month of march

RESTAURANTS SHOPPING NATURE TRAILS COOKING & ART CLASSES CRAFT BEER & WINE TASTING SPAS FITNESS EVENTS MUSEUMS ENTERTAINMENT

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LOCAL TREASURES

Warm up your wardrobe this winter with these colorful accessories

Ruffle Cashmere Scarf Niles Styles Niles, Michigan

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Michiana Life | 25

Cloth-lined Vegan Leather Wristlet/Crossbody Purse Niles Styles Niles, Michigan

$25

Newsboy Hat

Bella’s Gifts and Memories Niles, Michigan

$17.99

Big Buddha Studded Crossbody Whittaker House New Buffalo, Michigan

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LOCAL TREASURES

Plaid Purse

Bella’s Gifts and Memories Niles, Michigan

$31.99

Mittens with Gloves Inside Whittaker House New Buffalo, Michigan

$52

Newsboy Plaid Hat

Bella’s Gifts and Memories Niles, Michigan

$17.99

Michiana Life | 27

LOCAL TREASURES

Sam Edelman Snakeskin Ballet Flat

Whittaker House New Buffalo, Michigan

$92

Red Fedora with Bow

Bella’s Gifts and Memories Niles, Michigan

$24.99

Where

Hope Grows,

Miracles Blossom.

The Lakeland Health Foundation, Niles and the Niles-Buchanan YMCA have become partners, to deliver care to thousands of patients and families impacted by cancer.

Hope Grows raises funds to support cancer screenings and LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. Preventive screening detects cancer at an early stage, and LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a free 12-week exercise program to help survivors after treatment.

Save the Date: Hope Grows Luncheon, May 7, 2015

28 | Michiana Life

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A member of Ascension Health®

A life of Lifelong volunteer dedicates professional, spare time to others Story by Nick Shelton | Photo by Melissa Rodgers

J

giving

ust days before the big school dance, a young girl and her mother stop by a rummage sale hoping to find the perfect dress on their limited budget. After trying on several different gowns, the teenager finally finds “the one.”

“I feel so pretty!” the young girl says to the rummage sale volunteer as she tries on the dress. The volunteer kindly asks the girl if she has shoes to go with her dress. Her answer is “no.” The volunteer walks the girl over to the shoe section and finds her the perfect pair of black heels to complete the ensemble.

When the mother explains to her daughter that she can only afford the dress, the girl is heartbroken. They pay for the gown and return home. To their surprise, when the girl opens her bag to remove the dress, the pair of black heels are inside waiting for her. The volunteer had slipped them inside the bag for the girl, free of charge.

That volunteer’s name is Kellie Montgomery, and these are the things she does. She is a difference maker.

“It was such a small thing to me, but it made a huge difference in her world,” Montgomery said. “That’s the magic of volunteering and giving back.”

Kellie knows all about volunteering. When she isn’t donating her time to organizations like the Niles Service League, the Miss Stateline Scholarship Program or the Four Flags Area Apple Festival pageant committee, she is recruiting and cultivating individuals in her full-time job as the volunteer coordinator for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana.

RMHC, which is located inside of Memorial Hospital in South

“

Bend, is a volunteer-run, three-bedroom ranch home tucked away between the walls of the hospital. It is a no-cost sanctuary for the families of sick or injured children.

Kellie has been the full-time volunteer coordinator for RMHC for eight of its 12 years, ever since her friend and current executive director, Shelley Lesniewicz, introduced her to the organization and the position. During that time, it is safe to say that Kellie has made an impact, and she has been instrumental in recruiting the more than 130 volunteers currently on board at RMHC. And while the number of volunteers is remarkable, the real beauty of Kellie’s hard work is reflected in the number of lives that those volunteers have touched.

“We had 3,000 families who walked through our doors last year,” she said. “Anyone who has a child in the hospital under the age of 21 can register at the family room, and once they’re registered, they can use all of our services and it’s at no cost to the families. It saves them hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

When asked why she spends her free time volunteering, Kellie’s answer is simple.

“This is my fun,” she said.

For those who are fortunate enough to meet Kellie, it won’t take long to understand why RHMC has been able to positively impact so many families. Kellie loves what she does, and her passion for volunteering and helping others radiates through her congenial personality and beaming smile. She is the perfect example of what it means to put others first.

Kellie Montgomery isn’t only a volunteer; she’s a difference maker.

Just ask the girl in the black heels. v

It was such a small thing to me, but it made a huge difference in her world.

That’s the magic of volunteering and giving back.

30 | Michiana Life

”

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Michiana Life | 31

HOW TO... keep your resolutions

Health expert provides tips for maintaining weight loss throughout the entire year

Story by Ambrosia Neldon

W

eeks into the new year, some may already be struggling to keep up with weight loss resolutions.

St. Joseph native Kat Barry — a health enthusiast, vegan cookbook editor and certified yoga instructor — has several tips for maintaining weight loss all year long.

• Keep a journal: Barry said it is helpful to keep a written record of progress when attempting to stay fit.

“Writing down your workouts and meals really helps you track progress, stay on track and have accountability to yourself,” she said.

Barry said writing down your progress and holding yourself accountable is often more effective than keeping track with a workout partner or trainer.

• Set realistic goals: Barry encourages people to be mindful of their bodies’ health and abilities, pointing out that it is important not to overdo it when starting out.

“If you’re a couch potato, don’t try to start going to the gym five times a week. Start with three times and build from there,” she said.

• Don’t give up: While it is important not to overexert

Meet the Trainer Kat Barry, a St. Joseph, Michigan native, has made a name for herself with her vegan recipes. She co-authored “The Chicago Diner Cookbook” in 2014, writes a weekly column for “Off the Water” and keeps a blog on her website, KatsHotCakes.com.

Kat is a real estate broker and certified yoga instructor.

32 | Michiana Life

yourself, Barry said an equally important factor in staying on track to weight loss goals is gaining momentum and keeping the ball rolling with workout schedules.

“Do not take more than one day off in a row between workouts. The longer you break, the harder it is to get back in the groove,” she said. “It’s kind of like the law of inertia.”

• Don’t make excuses: Figure out how to make time.

“Many of my friends who are working moms have little fitness centers set up in their basements so they can run for even 20 minutes before they get their kids up in the morning,” Barry said.

Barry believes that anyone can reach their weight loss goals with some determination and discipline.

“It’s definitely a commitment, but a having solid, tangible goal you’re working towards and keeping a record of how you achieve it will ensure success,” she said. “Most of my fitness buddies say laziness is what causes people to abandon their workout plans, but I don’ think that’s really it. I think people let life get in the way. It’s not enough of a priority. Make your health a priority this year.” v

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34 | Michiana Life

FEATURE

Caffeinated

Ambience Grabbing a cup of coffee about more than a beverage

Story by Melinda Cooper | Photography by Amelio Rodriguez

C

offee houses have been around since the days of the Ottoman Empire, acting as social settings and filling patrons with caffeine instead of alcohol.

These hot spots have been places for catching up on work, discussing politics in hushed tones, gossiping about neighbors and their scandalous behavior or just enjoying a hot cup of coffee while reading a book. Ultimately, java shops have always been a place to get away from home and feel comfortable.

One does not need to frequent chains like Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts anymore when there are so many local places that make sitting for hours or just stopping to exist an acceptable pastime.

Local businesses help keep towns alive and coffee houses keep people caffeinated. No matter what type of atmosphere patrons are looking for, it can be found on the streets of Michiana. Whether people are looking for a place to enjoy their coffee in a business setting with Wi-Fi and leather couches, an artsy venue with local goods or a view of Lake Michigan with exquisite food, chances are it can be found just around the corner.

Michiana Life | 35

Main Street Coffee House Grab and go or stay awhile at this hot spot in downtown South Bend

W

alking into Main Street Coffee House, patrons are greeted by friendly staff. The faint sounds of old-school pop music float through the air as the smell of coffee hits customers in the face.

The latte flavor menu highlights favorites of maple, caramel and mocha for the undercaffeinated. A menu of breakfast options including paninis, enchiladas, bagels and baked oatmeal awaits the growling stomachs.

At tables and high-backed leather chairs, business people, downtown South Bend employees and students from area colleges can sit on welcoming plush couches to study, take a break or work through breakfast.

The walls feature rustic art. From the window by the fireplace, patrons can view local monuments including the St. Joseph County Civil War Memorial and the courthouse.

Although the sun shines through the windows, the mixed lighting helps provide ambience for unique areas — from track

XX | Michiana Life 36 | Michiana Life

lighting for business meetings to orangehued drop lighting for reading.

The rest of the coffee house is full of people typing away on laptops, participating in hushed conference calls or having meetings at the large wooden tables.

Outlets line the floors and walls and free wireless makes plugging in and powering

up no problem at all. The business is designed to feel like the perfect place to lounge all day with stay-a-while free refills on coffee.

Main Street Coffee House also offers a small library full of take one/leave one books and live music on Thursdays at lunchtime.

Visit

Main Street

Owners Marcus and Debra Miller, who also own the original location of the Main Street Coffee House franchise in Nappanee, had dreams of opening another location when the Ugly Mugs space in downtown South Bend became available.

They planned on duplicating what they already had in Nappanee but soon realized that the customer base was going to differ.

“We came to the conclusion that we are more of a coffeehouse/café than a hangout evening type of place [in South Bend],” Marcus said.

Marcus said he still wants to offer clientele a home away from home feeling but understands that some business people only have time to grab something and go.

More recently, the Millers have started

selling and promoting their packaged retail coffee beans so customers can enjoy Main Street Coffee House in their own kitchens.

In the alcove near the exit, there is a photo album that shows the heart and soul of Main Street Coffee House. Starting as a how-to directory on the coffee roasting world and finishing off with what could be a summer camp scrapbook, it shows the relationships and stories of the baristas. It gives life to the business.

In a nutshell, the owners say Main Street truly is somewhere customers could spend hours working or reflecting. The location is perfectly placed downtown; the ambience is quiet yet active and the coffee and food are full of variety.

102 N. Main St. South Bend, Indiana 46601 (574) 232-5333 mainstreetroasters.com

HOURS Monday-Friday — 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed Sunday.

QUICK PICKS • Southwest Salad: fire-roasted corn, black beans, peppers, tomatoes and cheese on a bed of romaine • Create Your Own Panini: customer choice of meats and cheese grilled between Italian breads • Chicken Salad Croissant/Wrap: generous portion of chicken salad on wrap or croissant

Michiana Life | 37

Union Coffee House & Café Enjoy coffee and lunch with a side of entertainment in downtown Buchanan

L

ocals and summer home visitors have known about a unique establishment for years, but to many Michiana residents it is a hidden gem.

Nestled on a quiet street in downtown Buchanan near the Buchanan Art Center and Buchanan District Library is Union Coffee House & Café.

“As an epicurean family with interests in the community and a musical background, we thought it would be a nice addition to the historical downtown business district in Buchanan to have an original café that celebrates coffee, food and music, and that would complement the nearby antique shops, library, art center and all locally owned businesses, for all tourists, and especially locals,” said Molly Thornton, manager of Union Coffee House.

38 | Michiana Life

The small bar area and open café space is designed to be welcoming. Upon arrival, the smell of espresso drifts through the air. Four-top tables line the windows. One of the most prominent features in the coffee house is a massive light with a black lamp shade decorated with black-and-white paisley underneath.

The shop is backed up by track lighting when needed but the natural light shining through the windows is disguised to be warm and inviting.

The bar area has a nice touch to it and the latte menu is extensive featuring a wide variety of unique blends, including a cayenne mocha created by Thornton. She is in charge of creating the menu and said her vision began “with the desire to have a more urban selection of real food and tasty drinks in a small-town, rural-like setting, like Buchanan.”

It would be easy to be inspired by the “U,” as frequent visitors often refer to it. Everything screams creativity.

The tiny espresso cups are an orange mosaic. The coffee house even features a creative area with local music for sale, artwork on display and a bookcase stocked full for visitors to enjoy. The tiny library features books that reflect the café’s atmosphere.

Thornton describes the atmosphere as “tasteful, aromatic, original, unique, melodic, characteristic, happy, fresh and contemporary.”

Union Coffee House has a well-known Sunday Sessions concert, also known as the Listening Room, which plays at 2 p.m. weekly. The event features local musicians who are only allowed to perform original songs — no covers.

Real music. Unplugged. Acoustic.

The coffee house recently hosted local musicians including Indiana native Jeff Ruby, Lauren Whidden and Uncle John Potthasthad a CD release party at the venue.

One of the owners is local musician Mathew “T-Bird” Thornton. He is in charge of booking the musicians.

Mathew was nicknamed T-Bird by a Union Coffeehouse customer in 2010.

“Because T-Bird and his family are all musicians in some way, the family wanted to incorporate music into the café that featured local and regional musicians, without competing with bar/live music venues,” Molly said.

The location is definitely a place to check out for music or to relax in a local atmosphere.

Visit

Union Coffee House

115 E. Front St. Buchanan, Michigan 49107 (269) 409-7004 unioncoffeehouse.com

QUICK PICKS • Homemade Vegetarian Soups: Veggie chili, tomato florentine soup and creamy chickpea garlic soup • Full authentic espresso and steam bar ª• Grilled Veggie Burrito Plate: Wild rice, black beans, cheddar cheese, spinach, avocado, carrots and fresh pico in a jalapeno wrap, with sour cream, salsa, and fruit garnish.

Michiana Life | 39

Caffe Tosi

S

ettled uptown with a view of Silver Beach and Lake Michigan, Caffe Tosi attracts both tourists and locals. For a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, customers can sit outside at a patio table, sip on a warm cup of cappuccino and watch the boats, waves and clouds over the lake in the distance.

For much of the year, the warm breeze blows softly and the light sound of traffic acts as ambient noise. It has been described as a minivacation in the midst of a downtown setting. Once walking into the coffee house, people stand in line waiting for the pièce de résistance: the food.

The smell of bread and coffee fill the air. The lines of perfectly made desserts and giant puff pastries temp customers through the glass case.

People meet over bowls of the famous minestrone soup, a dish that is both hearty and light.

Breakfast is sold all day on Sundays, which is also the day that customers can get one of manager Anthony Dunning’s favorites: Mini Frittatas, three miniature spinach and mushroom frittatas with feta cheese baked into them, served with turkey sausage and garlic roasted potatoes.

40 | Michiana Life

Sweet treats, great view on the lake shore

Visit

Caffe Tosi

515 Pleasant St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 (269) 983-3354 http://www.caffetosi.com

HOURS Monday-Friday — 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday — 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday — 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

QUICK PICKS • Goat Cheese Salad: a baked mini tower of roasted veggies (zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, green pepper, eggplant) and walnut-encrusted goat and provolone cheeses, served on a bed of spinach, lightly tossed in balsamic, honey mustard dressing • Butterscotch Buddino: Oreo crumble crust with butterscotch blondies, butterscotch pudding and topped with salted caramel • Triple Mousse: dark chocolate, milk chocolate and white chocolate mousses • Granola Cluster Cookies: cranberries, currants, cashews and white chocolate

Most everything is handmade and homemade, but the restaurant has some outside help. Caffe Tosi uses the Bit of Swiss Bakery in nearby Stevensville for its goods including bread, desserts and pastries. Bit of Swiss also works with Caffe Tosi’s former parent restaurant Tosi’s Restaurant, an upscale Italian eatery. “[Caffe Tosi] is its own separate entity [from Tosi’s Restaurant]. However, we do have a close business relationship [with]

them as we get our most popular soup, the minestrone [from them],” Dunning said.

No matter who makes it, most patrons say the food and drinks are incredible and the atmosphere only adds to the cuisine.

No matter how big of a hurry Dunning says patrons may be in, he encourages to stay for dessert that features butterscotch buddino, triple mousse and granola cluster cookies.

“Anne [Reitz, the owner and Dunning’s mother] and I believe [the cause for success

is] the great food and coffee sells itself.

However, we also think that people continue to come in for the friendly service and the comforting ambience,” Dunning said.

“Customers, both regular and new, often tell me that walking in on a cold snowy day and warming up while you smell the aroma of something delicious roasting in the oven reminds people of lazy days where a family member has cooked something specifically for them.” v

Michiana Life | 41

Madison

Liam

Owen

Autumn Ava

42 | Michiana Life

FEATURE

Seeing Addison

DOUBLE Michiana moms detail life raising twins Story by Ambrosia Neldon Photography by Lori Baxter/Lori Diane Photography

I

t’s 2 a.m., and Anna Billingsley and her husband have a plan.

Two lists have been made: one for Anna and one for Charles. They each grab a baby, strap her in and make a mad dash for the door.

As soon as the Billingsley family enters the grocery store, they exchange a kiss and take off in opposite directions, each with a twin as they quickly check items off their grocery lists, a comical race to the checkout lane before anyone can deter their outing.

“We have to do it that way,” Anna explained. “Otherwise we can’t get through the store without 20 people stopping us.”

Julia Henry and Becky Kessler, also both mothers of twins, laughed as Anna described the struggle, having been in the same situation themselves plenty of times.

When stopped in the grocery store by passing strangers, all three moms said people are always full of questions, the most popular of which is also the most redundant: “Are they twins?”

After four years of the same question in spite of his daughters’ always-identical outfits, Tom Kessler has begun to use more sarcastic quips to respond.

“He’ll say, ‘No. What makes you say that?’ when people ask him. And then, of course, he’ll say, ‘Yes,’ because it’s too cool to have twins and not say so,” Becky said.

Since giving birth to their twins, all three mothers agreed that their lives have drastically changed.

“All I can say is this,” Kessler said. “When you have twins, life is crazy.”

Michiana Life | 43

Finding out

MEET THE MOMMY Anna Billingley, of Niles, is 35 years old and the mother of 13-month-old identical twin girls, Autumn and Ava. She and her husband, Charles, also have two older boys: Annon, 8 and Ayden, 6. Her husband also has three older children, including a set of fraternal twins. Just after she found out she was pregnant, Anna received a degree in elementary education from Southwestern Michigan College.

44 | Michiana Life

Receiving the news that a baby is on the way is an exciting time for any parents.

Getting the news that two babies are on the way is another experience entirely.

For Becky Kessler and her husband, Tom, the news that they were having twins was not as surprising as it is for other couples.

“We were hoping to have twins, and we found out we were in the first month,” Becky said. “We found out we were pregnant with the girls on our third try of in vitro. We were only four weeks pregnant.”

Becky said after trying so many times to have children, she and her husband were hopeful for a multiple birth, which is common for mothers undergoing in vitro fertilization.

Julia Henry was not as prepared for the news of two babies when she received the word 12 weeks into her pregnancy.

“I cried. I had just gotten used to the fact that I was expecting a child and the fact that you’re going to be responsible for another human being is scary in itself,” Julia said. “Then I found out I was having two!”

Liam and Owen, now 3, were Julia’s first children. Now, she says giving birth to one daughter has been a breeze.

MEET THE MOMMY Julia Henry, 24, has 3-year-old identical twin boys named Liam and Owen, and a younger daughter, Alana. They live in Elkhart with her fiance, Aaron.

During the boys’ first year, Julia continued to work, but now she stays at home with the babies while working on her Mary Kay business.

Anna Billingsley was equally shocked with the news of her multiple birth pregnancy.

“I was going in for a knee x-ray when they told me,” Anna said. “I know some of the girls at the clinic, so I thought they were playing a joke on me. They weren’t.”

Anna and Charles went through in vitro fertilization with Anna’s oldest son, Annon, and had her second son, Ayden, two years later. They decided if they did not have another baby by the time Ayden was 5, they would stop trying. Anna found out she was expecting the twins the year Ayden turned 5.

“It’s so much harder with twins,” Anna said.

“Maybe it was because [the older two] were boys.

Maybe it’s because there are two at a time. It’s just harder.”

Becky and Julia both empathize with Anna’s struggle, understanding in a way only mothers of multiples can how difficult it can be to take care of two children the exact same age at once.

Double the trouble

For Julia, the challenges are just now beginning to peak.

“I don’t think I actually struggled when they were babies. It was just constant repetition. They were calm until they were hungry, and they were on the same schedule so it wasn’t too bad,” she said. “Now, they have mouths. They can do just about everything for themselves, or at least they think they can.”

Michiana Life | 45

Having identical twins, Julia and Anna were very afraid in the beginning that they would have trouble telling their children apart.

“When they were newborns I didn’t take their hospital bands off until they were practically cutting off their circulation,” Julia said. Once the boys outgrew their identification bands, she made bracelets to identify them, but the mom said she has always been able to tell a difference in their voices.

“Ever since I heard the first cry, I’ve noticed a difference,” she said.

Anna took a different approach to ensuring she didn’t mix up Autumn and Ava when they were infants.

“At the hospital, the nurses insisted we do something to identify them, so we polished the toes on one of them,” she said. “Then I got home and didn’t remember whose toes we painted! Luckily the nurse wrote it down.”

Now, Anna tells the babies apart by their earrings. Ava always has flower earrings because her middle name is Rose.

“I don’t know what we’ll do when they’re old enough to pick out their own earrings,” she said.

Becky’s daughters are fraternal, and while they look very similar, Addison has always been a few pounds lighter than Madison, so distinguishing the two was a little bit easier.

MEET THE MOMMY Becky Kessler, 38, gave birth to her fraternal twin daughters named Addison and Madison four years ago. Her husband, Tom, has two older daughters: Brooklyn, 19 and Bailee, 16. Becky works full-time as the assistant manager of South Bend Firefighters Credit Union.

46 | Michiana Life

Becky has her own struggles, though.

“My biggest issue is time,” she said.

“Nothing can be on time anymore.

You’re not just getting yourself ready; you’re getting two babies ready.”

Now that they have toddlers, Becky and Julia said they feel their babies conspire with each other to get into trouble.

“They’re always into something,” Julia said.

As the children get older, the moms pointed out they know there are challenges they will face — for example, whether or not to keep their twins in the same classrooms in school (all want to) or when to stop dressing them alike.

“I worry about taking them places individually,” Becky said, explaining that in the few times she has taken one twin with her and left the other with her husband, she constantly felt like she was forgetting something.

Anna said she has serious anxiety about separating the girls, and plans to keep them in the same classroom as long as the school system will let her.

Anna and Becky both dress their daughters alike, too.

“They’re twins. I feel like they should match,” Becky said.

Julia said she sometimes dresses Liam and Owen alike, but for laundry purposes, she isn’t as tied to the practice.

“When they get older, they can dress however they want,” Anna said.

When making decisions, all three women said they usually talk them over with their husbands, but there is no rhyme or reason to how they come about their choices.

“I’ve always just been someone to learn as I go,” Julia said. “It’s worked so far.”

Michiana Life | 47

Twice the fun

For all the trouble of caring for two babies at once, the moms all agree having twins is a blessing they wouldn’t give up, recounting plenty of comical memories that come with having twins.

Becky said even with the challenges, in retrospect, she often finds her struggles funny.

“One time I got home from the grocery store and had to use the bathroom. I came back and the girls were eating so much cheese I didn’t know what to do with it. There was cheese everywhere. I just had to stop and take a picture,” she said, laughing at the memory.

Julia said her boys are always making funny memories, and her encounters with other people often make her laugh.

“When the boys were still in day care, I thought it was funny one day to find that the girls were writing their names on their diapers to tell them apart,” she said.

Anna said she loves the fact that her daughters will always have each other’s backs and a best friend to grow up with.

48 | Michiana Life

“I know they’ll look out for each other, and it’s neat seeing that develop,” she said.

Advice for parents

Although their children are still very young, Becky, Julia and Anna feel they have all gained new perspectives on parenting.

Anna encourages any parents, but especially parents of twins, to accept help when offered it.

“Everyone always offered, but it was so hard to take it,” she said.

“Now I wish I would have taken [my friends] up on that more.”

Becky said all moms should get as much sleep as they can during their pregnancy. She agreed that allowing others to assist, especially in the early days, is important for a mother’s sanity.

“Get rest and get help, and by all means don’t forget to feed yourself,” she said. “I’m just now beginning to get sleep.”

Julia’s recommendation was simple.

“My advice for any parent is to cherish it,” Julia said. “It’s hard at first, but eventually they’re all grown up. Make the memories now.” v

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FEATURE

A walk through

history

Step back in time in South Bend’s Oliver Mansion Story by Ambrosia Neldon | Photos by Michael Caldwell

tanding in the doorway of the Oliver Mansion, guests are likely to be overwhelmed by the sheer immensity of the inside of the home.

A large sweeping mahogany staircase extends up three floors from the main hall adjacent to the doors. To the right, an immaculately decorated parlor provides a cozy sitting area where the mistress of the house spent her mornings. To the left, a living area lined with bookshelves, elegant curtains and a fireplace holds plenty of seating for entertaining guests or lounging around in the evening.

Despite having been owned by a museum for the past 35 years, after spending even a few minutes there, it is not hard for visitors to imagine a day in the life of the Oliver family, who called the mansion home.

The home at 808 W. Washington St. just outside downtown South Bend was once home to one of the wealthiest families in Michiana — immigrants from Scotland who made their fortune building revolutionary farming equipment.

S

HOME SHOWCASE

Michiana Life | 51

The history behind the home Completed in 1895, the Oliver family moved into the mansion (later named Copshaholm after the archaic name for the family’s hometown, New Castleton, Scotland) in 1897.

The 12,000-square-foot mansion with three full floors became the renovation project of a lifetime for the house’s most recent mistress. Susan “Catherine” Oliver, the granddaughter of the original owner, James Oliver and daughter of Joseph Doty Oliver and Anna Gertrude Wells Oliver. Catherine lived in the mansion from the time she was nine months old to her death in 1970.

After her older sister died 17 years later, the keys to the mansion and all of the property surrounding it were handed over to the City of South Bend to be part of what is now The History Museum of South Bend.

“They donated everything. We’re one of the few house museums in the country that has its entire original collection, and only one family ever lived here,” said Brandon Anderson, deputy director at the museum. “We are still connected to the family. It was maybe about two months or so ago the fifth and sixth generation came out here for a visit.”

Anderson said the mansion has recently been the site of a wedding for a sixth generation family member and a funeral for Ollie (J. Oliver) Cunningham, one of the family members who was instrumental in turning the home into a museum.

52 | Michiana Life

FEATURE HOME SHOWCASE “They had a big party in 1988 before they handed over the house to us, and then they handed over the keys and at that second it became the museum’s,” Anderson said. “They donated the house in order to continue the legacy of the Oliver family.”

With thousands of objects left over from when the home was lived in, it is easy to picture Catherine perusing a book in her reading alcove, or her brother, Joseph, smoking a pipe in his sitting room.

Each room in the home is nothing short of elegant, from the mahogany floors in the parlor to the Tiffany glass windows framed with Indiana flagstone on the exterior, to the commissioned art pieces that line the walls in nearly every room.

Though pieces of the original décor from when the house was erected in 1895 can still be spotted by the closelooking eye, much of the house was modernized by Catherine, as she and her brother spent much of their lives renovating their gigantic home.

Catherine’s special touch With the exception of a few years studying at Mrs. Davis’ Finishing School at Briarcliff-on-Hudson and Finch College in New York City, Catherine lived in Copshaholm her entire life.

After her parents’ death, she lived in the mansion alone until her brother Joseph returned to live with her after the death of his wife, Ellinor McMillan Oliver.

Catherine never married, but was engaged for some time to a professional golfer, Charles “Chick” Evans. As the story goes, her father did not approve of him, so they never married.

Michiana Life | 53

Oliver Mansion 808 W. Washington St. (Enter through Thomas Street)

(574) 235-9664 HistoryMuseumSB.org Tour Times: 11 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 2 p.m.

So, Catherine spent much of her time redoing the house, incorporating the architectural styles she saw during her travels into her own home. Catherine’s eye for architecture and art is evident in many places in the house, and visitors can see pieces of Catherine all over the abode. In fact, Susan Catherine Oliver’s monogram is tucked into nooks and crannies in countless places in the house — on napkins, towels, matchbooks, place mats and more.

Catherine was very meticulous in her decorating efforts and would go to great lengths to ensure her efforts were as perfect as possible.

Anderson said at one point, Catherine decided she wanted to lighten the dark-wood walls in the main hall.

“She had 17 coats of varnish removed from it and bleached the walls,” Anderson said. “It took longer to do that than it did to build the entire house.”

When she moved into the master bedroom that was once her parents’ on the second floor, she upgraded the décor to reflect the Hollywood Art Deco style, with pinks and greens that can be found in several other rooms in her house.

Off of the master bedroom, Catherine converted her sister Gertrude’s childhood bedroom into a sitting room for the master bedroom.

As she made these upgrades, Catherine made sure she used only the finest equipment. Tiffany glass can be found all over the house: in the lighting system above the reading alcove, in a grandfather clock on the main floor, and more. An entire room in the basement holds slip covers and curtains that were changed out seasonally all 54 | Michiana Life

over the house. Sconces in the dining room are made entirely of Czechoslovakian crystal, and a cabinet in the parlor holds countless pieces of carved ivory from the 1893 Colombian Exposition in Chicago.

The legacy lives on Since taking ownership of the mansion, the History Museum of South Bend has continued to keep up the house, adding decorations for the appropriate holidays and changing out table decorations in the dining room. So many items were left with the house that, even decades after taking over the home, museum staff continues to catalog them to this day.

The home was built with electricity and plumbing, which was at the time a huge extravagance, so with the exception of adding LED lights to some places, the mansion looks almost exactly as it did when Catherine passed in the late ‘70s.

Visitors are able to take a look at the Oliver Mansion for themselves by taking a tour through the history museum, offered daily. More information is available on the History Museum’s new website, HistoryMuseumSB.org, or by calling the museum at (574) 235-9664.

“What makes the Oliver Mansion so special is that as soon as you walk through the formal gardens and through the front doors into the Main Hall, you are immediately transported to a bygone era,” Anderson said. “The 38-room Victorian mansion is not just a house, it is a home.” v

Michiana Life | 55

In the details

56 | Michiana Life

DO-IT-YOURSELF

ENVELOPE PILLOW CASE Story and photography by Cricket Nelson

S

ewing can be a daunting task, especially for those who are just starting out. This envelope pillow case is a perfect project for a beginner or someone simply looking to spice up their home décor.

The best part is that you can take a pillow you already own, make as many different cases as you want and it only requires sewing four straight lines.

The first thing necessary for this project is to decide what pillow will be used and measure it prior to purchasing fabric. The fabric will need to be slightly more than twice as long as the pillow and you will want to leave a few inches open on each side for cutting and sewing.

1

Once you choose the fabric, the first step is to measure and cut it to the specifications of your pillow. Leave approximately 2 to 3 inches along the two edges that aren’t folded and then about 4 to 5 inches on the ends that will overlap and create the envelope for the pillow case.

2

Fold and pin 1/2” along the two ends that will be used to create the envelope. This will seal the edges and avoid any fraying once the pillow case is complete. Next, with the ends pinned, sew a straight line along both edges.

3

After the ends are sewn, while the fabric is reversed, use the pillow to fold around and decide the placement of the envelope opening. Then, pin along the unfolded edges, giving yourself room for sewing. Now that the two edges are sewn, simply turn the pillow case right side out and put it on your pillow.

Michiana Life | 57

& simple Fresh

Rocky River offers ‘farm-to-fork’ experience Story by Ted Yoakum | Photography by Amelio Rodriguez

G

ranger, Ind. — From the minimalist wooden décor to the very name of the restaurant itself, nearly aspect of Granger’s Rocky River Tap & Table is a reflection of the core values of its conception: freshness and simplicity.

Despite having only been open since July, the American-style bistro is already developing a reputation among area diners for a “farm-to-fork” approach to its menu, incorporating locally sourced ingredients in nearly every dish. The restaurant has deals with a dozen farms and butchers throughout the state of Indiana who supply it with the freshest meat and produce nearly every day. Even the island-style bar at the center of restaurant keeps things regional with 30 craft beers on tap from breweries within the IndianaMichigan area.

Owner Kurt Janowsky said this concept is unique among the 12 restaurants he currently operates. After purchasing the space at University Drive’s City Plaza that was formerly occupied by the popular Scottish pub Tilted Kilt, the restaurateur set out to create an eatery with a relaxed atmosphere and sensational, yet humble, offerings.

58 | Michiana Life

IN THE KITCHEN

Michiana Life | 59

Visit

Rocky River 1032 E University Dr. Granger, Indiana 46530 (574) 272-5458 RockyRiverTapandTable.com HOURS: Daily: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

60 | Michiana Life

“We wanted the food to be good. We wanted it to be fun, and we wanted to provide something different from what customers usually can get in town,” Janowsky said.

The owner’s desire to stand out from other restaurants even played a role in what he decided to christen his new business. The restaurant shares its alliterative name with a little known tributary of the St. Joseph River.

“We wanted the name to tie into something natural and local,” he said.

An emphasis on natural elements plays a subtle role in the appearance of the restaurant as well. From the photos on the wall of the heartland’s vast fields and mills to the small pumpkins and lavender serving as the centerpiece at each table on a fall day, these little touches complement the wooden floor and tables, creating a casual, inviting atmosphere for customers.

Of course, an eatery’s aesthetics means very little without a strong culinary punch backing it up — and Rocky River’s assortment of flatbread pizzas, sandwiches, salads and other hearty dishes more than fulfill that mission. Led by head chefs Jason Kluszczynski and Ryan Shriver, the 16-person kitchen brigade puts the restaurant’s bounty of ingredients to good use, in both traditional and unique ways.

Hits among customers include some unconventional appetizers such as BBQ Duck Nachos, which smothers a bed of cheesy nachos with smoked Indiana duck meat, chili sour cream and black beans, topped with Rocky River’s house blend sauce. The bacon jam dish follows in this vein, and is served with melted brie and toast points.

A selection of salmon, trout and lake perch entrees have also proven to be popular among customers, with the fish shipped to the restaurant directly from the Great Lakes.

As to be expected of a restaurant focused on regional ingredients, the chefs change up the menu on a frequent basis in order to keep pace with seasonal crops, Janowsky said.

“The same people who purchase organic ingredients at the grocery store love what we are doing with our menu,” he said.

“People like to know where their food is coming from.”

With a growing number people outside of the gastronomic circle placing more emphasis on natural, sustainable food, the owner predicts that the reputation of young Rocky River will continue to rise.

“Business has been good, and customers like the food and the concept behind it,” Janowsky said. “I think we’re here for the long haul.” v

Michiana Life | 61

Boozy

Brownies Instructions 1. Bake brownies according to package directions.

Food with Attitude

2. Drizzle brownies with bourbon as soon as they are out of the oven and refrigerate.

3. Cream butter, rum and powdered sugar together 4. Spread on cooled brownies.

5. Refrigerate again.

6. When cold, melt chocolate chips and shortening.

7. Spread or drizzle quickly on top of brownies.

Chill.

— Submitted by Ann Brown, Niles

Tapas ~ Wine Bar Temper Grille is where fine tapas-style cuisine and attitude unite to create an ultimate and unforgettable dining experience.

Tuesday - Saturday 5 PM - 10 PM Must be 21 to dine in the restaurant or on the patio

1213 E. University Drive, Granger (574) 273-0443 www.tempergrille.com tempergrille@gmail.com 62 | Michiana Life

Ingredients

• 1 (21 oz.) fudge br ownie mix (or brownies made from your favorite recipe) • 1/4 cup bourbon • 1 cup butter • 3 tablespoons ru m • 2 cups powdered sugar • 1 cup semi-swee t chocolate chips • 1 tablespoon solid vegetable shorteni ng

pasta

FROM THE COOKBOOK

Perfect Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup cooking liquid; drain pasta and return to pan.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet 2. over medium heat. Add panko and toast, stirring frequently, until light golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves (about 2 teaspoons), thyme and a sprinkling of salt and pepper; continue toasting until fragrant and golden brown, 1-2 minutes longer, stirring occasionally. Transfer to medium bowl; set aside.

3. Return skillet to stovetop. Heat remaining tablespoon oil and remaining minced garlic over medium heat; cook just until garlic sizzles and turns golden. Add cream cheese, spinach with liquid and artichoke hearts. Cook until mixture melts to simmering sauce, stirring frequently. Stir in 6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese.

4. Add sauce to pasta; toss to coat. Add enough reserved pasta cooking liquid to make a light creamy sauce, if necessary. Adjust seasoning, including salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately, sprinkling generously with toasted breadcrumbs and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Ingredients • 1 box penne rigate • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs • 5 cloves garlic, minced, divided • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves • Salt • Ground black pepper 8 ounces fat-free or light (Neufchatel) cream cheese

• 1 pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed (not drained) • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen artichoke hearts, cooked, drained, coarsely chopped • 6 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese • (Optional) grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

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Michiana Life | 65

Why I L VE Michiana Story by Scott Novak | Photography Submitted

Southwestern Michigan College founder chronicles history of building school

F

ifty years after his dream turned into a reality, recently retired Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Fred Mathews chronicled the challenges he and others faced building a community college in Dowagiac, Michigan.

Mathews spent nearly 19 years writing “Triumph Over Adversity,” a candid look at the history of Southwestern Michigan College. Mathews said he decided to write the book because people would tell him about the history of the college and it would be “pure fantasy.”

Mathews wrote the first 95 chapters from memory as he put it down on paper. As chance would have it, Mathews kept boxes of documents stored in his basement that he was able to reference to verify facts in the chapters he had already written.

With the college celebrating its 50th year in 2014 and his milestone as 50th year as chairman, Mathews thought there was no better time to finish the project that focused on the college he put his heart and soul into and the region he loves.

ML: What is your favorite memory tied to this area?

Mathews: I think the greatest thing was being able to lead the development of the college. How many people have an opportunity like that? Also, I had the opportunity to be the chairman of the Downtown Development Authority for 10 years when we took a deteriorated downtown, where 60 percent of the buildings were boarded up, and turned it into the magnificent downtown we have today.

66 | Michiana Life

ML: What is your favorite time of year in southwest Michigan?

Mathews: Probably spring. You know, you have gotten through the winter and everybody feels better when it is warm outside.

Plus, we see the fruits of our work at graduation. I look at these kids coming through the line and I know that many of them would have never gone to college had it not been right here. That is the real reward, when those kids go through graduation and you see the smiles on their faces. Many times they were the first ones in their family to have gone to college.

ML: What makes Michiana a unique place to live?

Mathews: We have open spaces that big city people cannot even imagine. We have a great selection of churches, a school system we are proud of, a college we are proud of and a downtown we are proud of. We have county buildings that are just magnificent and our county seat, with the beautiful old courthouse. We tell people you are 30 minutes from South Bend, 40 minutes from Kalamazoo, an hour and a half from Chicago and Grand Rapids. So, if you want big-city life, it is not that far way. v

Michiana Life | 67

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68 | Michiana Life Southwestern Michigan College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. www.higherlearningcommission.org