Michiana Life - Issue Three

Recipe for

success

Bit of Swiss Bakery rises to the top

Dreams

do come true

Niles dancer makes it big in Chicago ballet company

Barn sweet barn

SPRING 2015

Gallery owner uses love of art to transform 19th Century structure

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2 | Michiana Life

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z Michiana Life | 3

1

Publisher

Michael Caldwell

Managing Editor Ambrosia Neldon

Creative Department Anne Johnson Chelsey Erickson

Dreams

Recipe for

success

do come true

Bit of Swiss Bak ery rises to the top

Niles dancer ma in Chicago ballet kes it big company

Contributors

Craig Haupert Scott Novak Ted Yoakum Wes Jerdon Amelio Rodriguez Nick Shelton Nick Grenke Melissa Rodgers Cricket Nelson Meghan Chandler Samantha Hegeman Tim Mosier

Marketing

Sherina Gonzalez Phil Langer Nicole Bates Sharon Kerestury Donna Knight Dayna Coquillard Krystal Pipke

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

Barn sweet barn

SPRING 2015

Gallery owner uses love of art to transform 19th Century structur e

On the Cover

Amber Neumann, of Niles, Michigan, has worked most of her life to make her dream of dancing with a world-renowned ballet company come true. Follow her journey to become a member of the Joffrey Ballet Company in Chicago. See page 40.

Photo by Wes Jerdon/Westley Leon Studios

FEATURES

40 Dreams Do Come True Niles dancer makes it big in Chicago ballet company

48 Grain to Glass

Journeyman Distillery a hidden gem in region

54 Recipe for Success

Michiana bakery built empire with hard work,, family values

Advertising Inquiries (269) 683-2100 info@michianalife.com

Editorial Inquiries (269) 687-7713

XX | Michiana Life news@michianalife.com 4 | Michiana Life

27

What’s Inside?

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 8 9

Publisher’s Note

Spring is coming, finally!

Purely Michiana

Embrace season of blooms at Fernwood Botanical Garden

Word on the Street

Downtown South Bend employees share favorite weekend activities

82 Why I Love Michiana

Miss Blossomtime 2014 credits success to small-town living

ARTS & CULTURE

10 Artist Spotlight

South Bend gallery owner returns to artistic roots with tile-making

14 Have You Been Spotted?

Michiana residents enjoy nights out on the town

20 Things to Do

SHOPPING

HOMES

22 In the Biz

Find the perfect romantic getaway along the shore

27 Local Treasures

Spruce up your home with these furniture finds

62 Showcase

Art lover transforms 19th Century barn into modernized home

70 In the Details

Explore the many art pieces inside the one-of-a-kind home

72 Do It Yourself

LIVING

34 Difference Makers

Bond between advocate, child deeper than volunteerism

36 How To

Wedding planner shares tips to make big day perfect

38 Health 101

Grow your way to good health

34

Revitalize your light fixture with a quick craft project

FOOD

74 In the Kitchen

Brewster’s brings Italian favorites to Lake Michigan’s coast

78 From the Cookbook Try out these light spring favorites right at home

74

Upcoming events across region

10

36

62 Michiana Life | 5

MICHIANA LIFE

from the publisher

Growth, new beginnings exciting part of spring

S

pring is officially in the air! (Hopefully

region’s beauty and to get the images and

it stays that way). No one probably

stories beneath the surface.

appreciates that more than residents of

southwest Michigan and northern Indiana.

The region absolutely comes to life in March

We welcome the addition of Wes Jerdon of Westley Leon Studios, whose photography on three of our key features showed off his skills

and April. I think we all try to bury those winter

and complemented perfectly managing editor

memories for at least another eight months.

Ambrosia Neldon’s work to capture the magic

Spring has always been a season of growth

spark of the subjects. Most notable of the three

and new beginnings, themes we feel fit

are the images of local dancer, turned Chicago

perfectly with the third issue of Michiana Life.

star, Amber Neumann. Wes turned his studio

From unique businesses like Bit of Swiss

into a veritable stage, allowing Amber to

bakery (page 54) and Journeyman Distillery

shine as she shared her moves and the journey

(page 48) that have grown from the passion

toward achieving her dream.

of their owners, to an amazing barn that was

We are already working on issue four, the

reborn as a one-of-a-kind home, this issue

summer issue and the last of our first year of

personifies spring from cover to cover.

publication.

While it isn’t exactly a new beginning, just like the flowers at Fernwood (page 8), we truly

That is exciting, too.

The optimism and excitement that comes

feel the magazine is blossoming right before

with spring is something that is contagious and

our eyes.

leaves the winter blues as nothing more than

Readers may notice we have added pages.

We have added new standing features. We have

distant memories — at least for another eight months or so. v

added new contributors.

Growth and evolution are truly our goals and spring is the perfect time to unveil that.

The amazingly talented writers and photographers who contributed to this issue went above and beyond to showcase the

— 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 this 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

purely michiana

nature

Escape to Fernwood Botanical Garden offers spring oasis in southwest Michigan

T

Story by Craig Haupert | Photo submitted

ucked away down a winding country road in Niles lies one of southwest Michigan’s greatest natural treasures — Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve.

Visited by nearly 40,000 people last year, the public garden is home to more than 500 plant species and dozens of beautiful gardens that change with the seasons, offering something new to experience any time of the year.

Its 105 acres feature a thoughtful mixture of designed and natural areas, showcasing what can be accomplished when man and nature work in harmony.

Executive Director Carol Line said public gardens like Fernwood provide safe havens from day-to-day worries and stresses, becoming centers of great beauty and calm.

“Gardens are cultural centers and exist to lift our spirits and broaden our minds. Gardens are places of solace and places for play,” she said. “Fernwood is the place where individuals can escape into nature.”

In addition to serving as a place in which to unwind, Fernwood offers special programming in horticulture, gardening and plant science for aspiring green thumbs and amateur gardeners.

8 | Michiana Life

A complete list of Fernwood’s offerings can be found online at fernwoodbotanicalgarden.org.

Line said education is paramount at Fernwood and is reflected in the diverse programs offered there.

For example, an on-site environmental studies program introduces elementary school students to topics in botany and ecology. Fernwood also sends a traveling naturalist to area classrooms for lessons on environmental education. Through these two programs alone, approximately 5,000 school-aged children are reached each year.

“Kids love Fernwood for many reasons including our frogs and turtles and birds and water features,” Line said. “And then there’s the railway garden.”

Summer day camps focused on nature, art and science — along with a variety of family programs — add to Fernwood’s offerings. Adult programs include horticulture, art, and botany classes, workshops, lectures, tours, a book group, yoga, a photography club and many others.

Now in its 50th year, Fernwood continues to grow, so to speak.

Line said plans are in the works for a new education center and garden master plan.

“The new center will allow us to expand and strengthen our existing curricula in natural history, environmental science, botany, and horticulture,” Line said. “The master plan will provide us with a roadmap to future improvements that will lead to an even more beautiful and more sustainable Fernwood.” v

The men and women who work in South Bend weigh in on favorite things to do in the river city Photos by Tim Mosier

“My favorite thing to do in downtown South Bend is to ride my bike with my kids along the river walk, maybe stop at some random spots and have a beer.”

— Amanda Havens (South Bend Brew Werks)

“I really love going to Woochi. The food is really, really good and you just don’t feel like you’re in South Bend.

You feel like you’re in Chicago. It just has that feel.”

— Diana Palomo (The Pigeon and the Hen)

“My favorite thing is the wine walk. You can start at any of the participating restaurants and walk around the city tasting wine and some of the money goes to charity so that’s great.”

— Jen Hayden (Le Peep Cafe)

“I’m not old enough to go around to the bars or anything but I’m sure if I was, that is something I would be doing on the weekends.”

— Kaleb Shank (Bruno’s Pizza)

“I like to go shopping at the Indiana Rug Company.

They have a lot of great stuff that is really unique.”

— Mayra Garcia (South Bend Candy and Card Company)

“Honestly, my favorite thing to do on the weekends is — when I am not working — coming to Chicory to check out live music.”

— Vince Powell (Chicory Cafe)

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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

10 | Michiana Life

artist spotlight

ARTS & CULTURE

MOLDING a career

Gallery owner returned to artistic roots with tile making Story by Nick Shelton | Photos by Melissa Rodgers

D D

escribing an artist’s work as “a little flat” usually isn’t considered a compliment.

But, in the case of one Michiana native’s art, the description is accurate.

Kathy Reddy White, the owner of CircaArts Gallery in downtown South Bend, is a clay tile artist, and while the majority of her art pieces are literally “a little flat,” from an artistic viewpoint, they’re anything but.

Upon entering CircaArts Gallery inside the historic McCormick building on the corner of Hill and Colfax in downtown South Bend, guests will be greeted by Zoe, Kathy’s iconic black and white shop cat. Venture further inside, and it’s impossible to miss the magnificence of the paintings, pottery and tiles that adorn the many shelves, tables and walls of the gallery.

Prominent on the west side of the gallery are the delicately complex ceramic tiles, each thoughtfully hand-crafted by Kathy in the intimate basement studio of CircaArts. Imaginative images drawn and emblazoned by Kathy are brought to life by the earthy tones of the glaze on the bisque-fired tiles.

The glass-like surfaces of the finished products accentuate the beautiful textures crafted onto the clay.

Becoming an artist was in Kathy’s bones. The daughter of a fashion illustrator, Kathy followed her

mother’s example.

“My twin sister and I were drawing from the beginning,” Kathy said. “We would draw bunnies on pogo sticks so they could learn to hop. That tells you how young we were.”

Kathy continued on her path, and her painting skills flourished. With the goal of becoming an accomplished artist, and with the support of her parents, Kathy enrolled at Saint Mary’s College, where she would go on to earn her degree in fine arts.

But the fear of a career as an artist crept to the forefront of Kathy’s mind.

“I began to worry about how to make a living as an artist,” she said. So instead of pursuing a career as a painter, Kathy enrolled at the University of Notre Dame and did graduate work in industrial design.

After college, Kathy obtained a job as a graphic designer and stayed in the field for the next 20 years.

The demands of working for a handful of companies took their toll on Kathy’s creative freedom, though, and she lacked the time to complete her own pieces.

Then, after 20-some odd years, something pivotal happened.

“A friend suggested I take a ceramics class at night with her,” Kathy said. Although intimidated by the idea of creating pottery, Kathy dove in. That late-night pottery class became the serendipitous spark that ignited Kathy’s career as a tile artist.

Michiana Life | 11

In the class, Kathy learned the process of throwing, glazing and firing clay to make pottery.

Then, a previous passion for tile work inspired Kathy to take her knowledge of throwing pottery and apply it to creating her own tiles.

“I love the looks of say, a building in Morocco, or anything that’s tiled like a backsplash or floor,” Kathy said. “I thought, ‘what am I doing throwing pots? I love tiles.’ And here I am in a clay studio.”

So after reading a book, Kathy figured out how to make tiles.

“It’s basically pottery,” she explained. “Most people throw pots on a wheel, then fire it and glaze it. With tile, it is the same process with the clay, but they are flat.”

After learning to make tiles, Kathy’s passion for creating her own artwork became her obsession. Three years later, Kathy left her graphic design career and opened CircaArts Gallery.

“I lost 20 years or so after college working and not making much art,” Kathy said. “Tile making absolutely brought me back. I have been making tiles for about 18 years now.”

While it did take Kathy some time to find her voice in her artwork, it eventually emerged.

“I love the arts and crafts style, like Frank Lloyd Wright. I started looking at that style and it really struck a chord with me. So I started using my illustration capabilities in the arts and crafts style with clay, and it just worked. It was a combination that just said ‘yes.’”

Kathy has taken this approach and used it to create hundreds of enchanting tiles.

She offers pieces in various themes, including nature, boats, saints and more.

A South Bend native, Kathy has even created a line of tiles specific to Indiana colleges and universities. Her University of Notre Dame 12 | Michiana Life

line includes Golden Dome, Touchdown Jesus and Grotto tiles.

Kathy isn’t only a tile artist, though; she’s a painter. This is made evident by the beautiful designs she has drawn, etched, and glazed onto each of her tiles. She’s also created pieces that incorporate both traditional painting and ceramic tile art. One of the most dynamic pieces in her gallery is a sailboat-themed fireplace mantle that includes a painting framed with gorgeous hand-crafted tiles.

“I took the artwork to a creative level,” Kathy said. “I wanted to do some signature pieces instead of little tiles here and there.”

From start to finish, it can take up to a month to finish a single tile, but Kathy doesn’t seem concerned with the duration.

“You have to give it time,” Kathy said. “Things can go wrong. You just have to have a sense of humor and start over.”

Kathy has dubbed her style “Ziggurat,” and each of her tiles are stamped on the back with her signature Ziggurat logo.

When Kathy decided to open CircaArts Gallery, her main intention was to have a place for local artists to display and sell their work.

“I wanted to showcase local artists and I also wanted to have a gallery that was approachable,” she said. “A lot of people are afraid to come into a gallery. It’s like, ‘just walk in here.’ CircaArts is a place where you can get the general public in here to appreciate art.”

What advice would she give to aspiring artists?

“Do it and try it and don’t go and do something you don’t like just to make the money. I was afraid and it took me over 20 years to get back to my soul. That’s a big mistake. It is scary, but just do it.

Somehow. Don’t let it go.”

Those words of wisdom — like Kathy and her artwork — are anything but “a little flat.” v

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YOU’VE BEEN

Dani Bragg and Kyle Newman

Beth Rowe and Lauren Kuehn

Gina and Lauren Bowman

14 | Michiana Life

Leanna Belew and Jody Klinedinst

John Anderson, Mark Davidhizar, Darron Peddle and Bret Chupp

Andrew and Kim Pinter, Todd and Alison Treder

Bob and Zach McFarland

The Century Center South Bend, Indiana Jan. 24, 2015

South Bend BrewFest

Photos by Amelio Rodriguez

Ian Kollar and April Short

Mike Markiewicz, Tony and Rachel Chelminiak, Kala and Doug Matthys, Jessica Hanyzewski

Amanda Bohne, Erica Machulak, Sarah Baechle

Brian and Jessica Heckman, Walt and Rachael Talbot

Therese Dorau, Annie Christianson and Kate Williams

Ryan Kring and Doug Elder

Glenn Freel, Warren Kluck, Dave Halgren

Andrew Elegante, Rob Austin and Matt Zakrzewski

Michiana Life | 15

Mardi Gras Soiree

Photos by Amelio Rodriguez

Randy and Michelle Kent

Heather Hedman, Kelly Sluddarth, Wendy Polotto and Alicia Marker

Kendra Pope, Jordan Rank and Kayley Closson

16 | Michiana Life

Tina Scott and Sarah Taravat

Melissa DeBartolo, Samantha and Tyler Fry, Tiki Farkas and Troy Fry

Fat Cam’s at Garver Lake Edwardsburg, Michigan Feb. 7, 2015

Andy and Dawn Huff, Landis Mueller, and Matt and Jill Wander

William Brown and Rachael Fox

Mary Musialik and Keith Steinke

Rich and Trisha Bolin, Todd and Mary Bouwkamp

Ashley and Michael Hoffman, Eric Beach

Larry and Katherine Helenburg Michiana Life | 17

A Taste of Soul

Photos by Craig Haupert

Niles District Library Niles, Michigan Feb. 28, 2015

Saundria Wilson, Vance Vanderburg and Betsy Vanderburg

Violet Webb and Irinka Johnson 18 | Michiana Life

Shana Ferris and Sandy Klekowski

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Michiana Life | 19

O D O T S G THIN APRIL

MAY

24-26 8-17 ART ATTACK

Harbor Country, Michigan Organizers promise a full palette of colorful activities featuring a weekend showcase of gallery receptions, artist demonstrations, exhibitions, theatre, music, wine tasting,s open houses and an overall great time. For more information, visit harborcountry.org

MAY

22

DOGWOOD FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

MAY

13

WEDNESDAY WINE WALKS

MAY

16

Dowagiac, Michigan

South Bend, Indiana

BBQ, BLUES & BLUEGRASS

festivals in Michiana, the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival draws visual and performance artists from all over the country. Headliners for this year’s festival include storytellers Tim Lowry and Gary Shteyngart and musician Melissa Manchester.

Other activities include the Dogwood Tea, Emerging Playwright Award and a youth fine arts night.

More information is available at dogwoodfinearts.org.

Downtown South Bend hosts Wednesday Wine Walks four times throughout the summer, beginning May 13. Start at one location and work your way through downtown South Bend tasting the wines area restaurants have to offer. Other Wine Walks are June 10, Aug. 12 and Sept. 9.

Visit eatdrinkdtsb.com for more information.

Everyone is invited to celebrate spring and get ready for summer with this annual lakeside festival. Guests can enjoy live music, craft beer, regional wines and local barbecue.

This event will be located in Whirlpool Centennial Park. For more information, visit stjoetoday.org

wOne of the biggest fine arts

MAY

28-31

SB150 CELEBRATION South Bend, Indiana

NILES FAMILY CARNIVAL & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

South Bend will celebrate its 150th anniversary of incorporation during Memorial Day weekend. The east and west banks of the St. Joseph River downtown will be divided into 10 different activity zones with something to entertain everyone.

The weekend will spotlight the best of what South Bend has to offer, celebrating the city’s past, present and future. More information is available at SB150.com

Niles, Michigan

Niles offers a free music festival in Riverfront Park downtown, just eight miles north of South Bend. This year more than 13 bands will be featured in the four days of live music on the banks of the St. Joseph River. Other amenities include rides, games, food and craft vendors. More information is available at www.ci.niles.mi.us

JUNE

12-14

20 | Michiana Life

Plan ahead with fun happenings across Michiana

St. Joseph, Michigan

MAY

30

CRAFT FAIR

St. Joseph, Michigan Enjoy lake views while shopping from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the annual craft fair in Lake Bluff Park. Items include unique hand-crafted, homemade goods such as home décor, furniture, jewelry, candles and clothing. For more information, visit stjoetoday.org

JUNE

27-28

FLAG DAY CELEBRATION

NEW BUFFALO ARTigras!

Three Oaks, Michigan

New Buffalo, Michigan

Featuring art in the park, a pet parade, Kids Zone, food vendors, beer and brats, little league and men’s softball tournaments, the nation’s largest Flag Day Parade runs along Elm Street at 3 p.m. Sunday. More information is available threeoaksflagday.com

New Buffalo ARTigras! Fine Art and Craft Festival offers original works of art from more than 70 artists around Harbor Country. Fine art of all mediums will be showcased at the festival, along with live entertainment. For more information, visit newbuffalo.org

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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 | 21

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS minutes from the coast Story and photography by Samantha Hegeman

W

ith another brutal winter hopefully behind Michiana residents, couples all over the region are anxious to get out of the house and spend some quality time together.

Like the return of birds chirping and spring bulbs peeking through the melting snow, seasonal lakeside businesses are beginning to open their doors and prepare for warmer weather.

Tourists wishing to beat the busy season can take advantage of all St. Joseph and Harbor Country have to offer while witnessing the early signs of spring and

22 | Michiana Life

escaping the noise of everyday life. Those hoping to make a vacation of it can take advantage of the many romantic lodging opportunities just minutes from Lake Michigan.

Several inns along the lakeside offer quiet, safe havens away from busy city streets, noisy play-dates and stressful workplaces for guests to stay during their romantic getaways. There are plenty of opportunities for people in all price ranges — from conscientious couples hoping to stay on a budget to partners willing to spend a little more on a romantic outing.

in the biz

SHOPPING

Garden Grove Bed & Breakfast IF YOU VISIT Address Garden Grove Bed & Breakfast 9549 Union Pier Rd. Union Pier, Michigan 49129 Phone Number (269) 469-6346 Website GardenGrove.net Average Price Range Winter: $250 Summer: $400

Nestled behind the privacy of hedges and a giant weeping willow awaits the cozy Garden Grove Bed & Breakfast in Union Pier, Michigan.

Built in 1925, the renovated farmhouse offers four guest rooms: The Arbor, The Rose, The Sunflower and The Violet. For those looking for a deluxe suite, the bed and breakfast also has the detached three-room Carriage House featuring The Garden Retreat, The Lavender Room and The Woodlands Suite.

The romantic rooms and suites offer various amenities including in-room jacuzzis and clawfoot tubs, open flame fireplaces, wet bars, dinettes and private balconies. The bed and breakfast also provides in-room dining options and free use of bicycles.

“It’s about the little things,“ said Jerry Welsh, owner and innkeeper with his wife, Paula.

“There’s a change of pace that people look for [when vacationing], and they find it here.”

With more than 50 percent of guests traveling from Chicago, the Welshes believe Garden Grove is the place to escape the hustle and bustle of the workplace.

The bed and breakfast is within walking distance from Lake Michigan’s beaches and Round Barn Winery. Other nearby attractions include Courtyard Fine Art, Four Winds Casino, Greenbush Brewing Co. and Vickers Theatre.

“The area sets us apart [from other bed and breakfast inns],” Jerry said. “A large part of the infrastructure stays open all year round.

There are antiques, arts, wineries, two casinos, restaurants — a variety of things, whether it’s January or July.”

Couples planning an outing to celebrate a special occasion can take advantage of the bed and breakfast’s “Hot Deals!” including a golf package, spa package and a casino package as well as seasonal specials for holidays, wine tasting and football weekends.

Michiana Life | 23

New Buffalo Inn & Spa In the heart of Harbor Country, the New Buffalo Inn & Spa provides a relaxing home away from home.

The inn offers six guest rooms designed for extended stays: Goodrich Room, Miss Eber Knight Room, Snug Harbor Room, Captain’s Quarter’s Room, Galien Room and SS Post Boy Room — all named with New Buffalo’s history in mind.

The sea-inspired rooms offer various amenities including a fireplace, twoperson jacuzzi, full kitchen, living room, bedroom and private deck. Behind the inn is a private “backyard” with patio furniture, a grill and a hot tub for guests.

“People come for the walkability,” said Lisa Werner, one of the innkeepers and owners. “There are shops, wineries and beaches within walking distance, as well as tour companies, available all year round.”

The New Buffalo Inn is close to many southwest Michigan attractions including downtown New Buffalo, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail and Four Winds Casino.

For a relaxing day in, the establishment also contains a full-service spa located next door, and a couple’s spa room located in the inn. The spa offers services such as massages, facials, waxing and healing therapies.

“People laugh when they realize I’ll be doing their facials too,” Werner said.

24 | Michiana Life

IF YOU VISIT Address New Buffalo Inn & Spa 231 E. Buffalo St. New Buffalo, Michigan 49117 Phone Number (269) 469-1000 Website NewBuffaloInn.com Average Price Range Winter: $300 Summer: $450

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro

IF YOU VISIT Address Boulevard Inn 521 Lake Blvd.

St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 Phone Number (269) 983-6600 Website TheBoulevardInn.com Average Price Range Winter: $350 Summer: $500

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro, located in St. Joseph, Michigan, is the destination for a weekend of beautiful views, exquisite dining and fun festivities.

Rated “Best Hotel” by The Herald Palladium, the inn offers remodeled allsuite accommodations. Room amenities include a kitchenette, wet bar, living room, bedroom and jet bathtub, as well as a complimentary breakfast buffet in the bistro.

“What makes the Boulevard Inn a great place is our people,” said Chris Heugel, the general manager. “It’s not just a job, it’s a passion. We sell memories.”

The charming Bistro on the Boulevard prepares appetizers, entrees and deserts with locally sourced ingredients. Fresh meat and produce is delivered weekly from several farmers in southwest Michigan including Middlebrook Farms, Old Europe Cheese and Jake’s Country Meats. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday

brunch, the bistro’s seasonally changing menu is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Located on the bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, the inn is walking distance from Silver Beach and the Silver Beach Carousel with plenty of food and shopping downtown. Other area attractions include restaurants along the bluff, Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail and the Southwest Symphony Orchestra.

If you’re planning a romantic getaway, The Boulevard Inn offers couple’s specials and packages including “Romance on the Boulevard” with chilled champagne, a fresh fruit and cheese basket, one dozen roses, a box of Kilwin’s premium chocolates and breakfast for two in the bistro.

The inn can also host groups for business meetings, weddings, reunions and other events with four differently designed rooms, accommodating up to 80 people.

“The Boulevard Inn & Bistro is a great place to be,” Chris said. v Michiana Life | 25

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26 | Michiana Life

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Michiana Life | 27

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28 | Michiana Life

Hand-blown recycled glass with beach-worn finish in various colors Starting at $28

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All of the decor on these pages can be purchased at Harbor Town Interiors, located at 613 Broad St. in St. Joseph, Michigan.

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CKramer Interiors $3,103 Michiana Life | 31

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32 | Michiana Life

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BOOK NOW Michiana Life | 33

a voice Giving the silent

Court volunteer describes bond with child she met in program Story and photography by Craig Haupert

S

itting at a table in the Edwardsburg library, Nancy Krempec searched her smart phone for a message that a few days earlier had made her cry.

The message, she explained, came from a 19-year-old girl whose real name she cannot divulge due to privacy concerns. Nancy referred to her simply as Jane.

For the past six years, Nancy has served as Jane’s advocate through Cass County’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, which matches trained volunteers with abused and neglected children who have entered the foster care system.

The volunteers get to know the children, mentor them and act as their “voice” during court proceedings in Cass County.

Nancy was assigned to Jane in 2009 after the child’s father died. Jane was 13 years old at the time. Her mother died when she was six. Instead of going into all the heart-wrenching details, Nancy simply said Jane’s childhood was very troubled.

“Anything you can imagine bad happening to a child happened to her — and more,” Nancy said.

Jane was understandably standoffish at the time she and Nancy first met, unsure of all the new people thrust into her life and still grieving the death of her father.

“I was just another person Jane had to answer to,” Nancy said.

In the days, weeks and months that followed, Nancy slowly gained Jane’s trust. They met at least once a week and communicated every day while Jane lived with her foster family.

Nancy, a retired school teacher, developed a plan to get Jane back on track in school and, pretty soon, Jane went from a failing student to one making regular appearances on the honor roll. Nancy rewarded Jane’s success with day trips to museums and zoos in Chicago and Indianapolis. It didn’t take long before Nancy began thinking of Jane as the daughter she never had.

34 | Michiana Life

“I want the very best for her,” Nancy said. “She has the ability to do well and I think she believes she can do well. I think I have helped her to believe in herself and that she can be a better person than she thought she was.”

When Jane asked Nancy if she’d take her shopping for a prom dress, Nancy jumped at the chance. It is something she had never done before.

“We spent a couple weeks looking for it and, boy, she did look cute,” said Nancy, adding that a picture of Jane at the prom still hangs on her wall.

Although Nancy’s time as Jane’s advocate will end when Jane graduates from high school this spring, Nancy said she hopes to be part of Jane’s life forever.

“She has already asked me if I will walk her down the aisle when she gets married. She asked if I’d be there when she has her first baby. She wants me to visit her at college,” Nancy said. “I will always be there for her.”

Being a CASA volunteer has exposed Nancy to a side of the world she never knew existed. There are 125 children in the foster care system in Cass County alone, almost all of whom would benefit from the CASA program.

The problem is, there are far too many Janes and not enough Nancys.

“It is just so important because these kids need a voice,” Nancy said.

“We need more people out there to help with these kids, especially men.”

Nancy truly believes being a CASA volunteer is one of the best ways a person can give back to the community.

To understand why, all you have to do is read the message Jane sent to Nancy: “I just wanted say how much I appreciate you and everything you have done for me. I have grown so much because of you. You have stuck by my side through everything. I am a better person because of you. You are always there for me when I need to talk. I am so glad that you came into my life. I love you Nancy and you are amazing. I have changed for the better because of you.” v

difference makers

LIVING

Michiana Life | 35

LIVING

how-to

Wedding planning Tips for first-time planners or seasoned brides Story by Meghan Chandler | Photos courtesy of Kacey Luvi Photography/Merry Me Events

G

RANGER, Ind. — Before walking down the aisle to say “I do,” brides and grooms have an abundance of details to work out.

From the flowers and bridesmaids to the cake and food, planning a wedding can seem overwhelming. But with patience, good budgeting and a little help, planning a wedding can become simpler — and less stressful — by following a few tips from Cher Goggins, owner of Merry Me Events in Granger.

“So many brides are getting married later at older ages. They are starting careers first and then getting married,” the professional planner said said. “So we try to be as much of a one-stop shop as possible.”

While not every couple can afford a wedding planner, Goggins said that a benefit to hiring someone to help with the process is that these professionals can help clients best spend their money because they know the standard cost of items.

But for a bride on a budget, Goggins has some wedding planning advice.

1. Planning a wedding takes time Couples should give themselves at least a year to pull a wedding together from start to finish.

Goggins said that many brides get to the first of the year and realize that they haven’t done enough for the wedding.

2. Figure out what is important With so many options available to brides now, before anything, Goggins said that it is important to make a wish list and decide what the most important aspects of the wedding are to you.

“If you don’t care about ‘special China,’” then don’t bother yourself with that,” Goggins said. “Have a priority list of what matters most to you.

Personalize it to you and don’t try to do what your sister or friend did.”

36 | Michiana Life

3. Determine a budget – and revise as needed Among the first steps, Goggins said couples should determine a budget. Build the budget around the list of priorities.

“If you have a budget and you find a photographer that just nails it [but is out of the price range], then rework your budget. Work things around what you want,” Goggins said. “You want someone that you can depend on.”

Goggins said that it is important to remember, throughout the entire process, that there are always ways to cut back on costs. For example, scaling back on a cake that everyone will eat regardless of its cost in favor of a good photographer.

“With weddings, you get what you pay for,” Goggins said.

4. Don’t forget the little things Early on, couples should start planning RSVP cards and table assignments.

“Where people are going to sit is one of the most overlooked details,” Goggins said. “You get to the end and you’re like, ‘why isn’t this person coming,’ or ‘why did they wait six months to respond?’ So start early.”

In addition to table assignments, Goggins said that often providing guests with multiple food options can prove to be hectic for the wedding planning process.

“You have to send out the options on the RSVP and then coordinate with the catering to get the food to the right table,” Goggins said of all the work that goes into offering guests a choice in the meal. “You have to decide, is it worth it to give your guests an option?”

Most importantly, Goggins says starting early, communicating with your partner and not overlooking the details are the best options to making that special wedding day everything a couple wants it to be. v

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LIVING

health 101

Growing your way to

GOOD HEALTH

I

don’t know about you but when it comes to gardening I don’t have much of a “green thumb” — or maybe any at all — but, like a growing number of Americans, I am getting more and more concerned about the foods I’m eating: where they come from, if they’re safe to eat, if they are free of contamination and if they are negatively impacting my health.

The more I learn, the more unsettled I feel.

According to the Lindberg International survey released recently, 1,000 Americans were asked if they are concerned about the pesticides in our food supply. Included in the survey were questions about their perception, knowledge and health concerns related to the foods they eat. Lindberg International found 71 percent of Americans are worried about the herbicides, pesticides and synthetic chemicals used in their food and what their children are consuming.

I’m in this group, too: the worriers.

We aren’t just worried about all those chemicals put on the foods during the growing season. Now we are worried about the bacteria that comes with the food delivered to our local grocery stores. Some studies indicate we are now eating, drinking and breathing more than 700 chemicals per day. Other studies say these chemical exposures are responsible for some of the chronic illness many of us suffer from.

People seeking peace of mind is fueling the growing trend and popularity of choosing organic foods over conventionally grown foods.

It just makes sense, right? The more synthetic chemicals on our food, the less safe the food is for us to eat — the less chemicals, the healthier the food.

To be 100 percent certain of what’s going on — and in — your food, the

only solution is to grow your food at home or in a community garden.

There are so many benefits to home gardening. Homegrown fruits and vegetables are vitamin- and mineral-rich, they often taste better, it saves money on your grocery bill and growing food is easier to do than ever before. You don’t have to have a big backyard (or any yard at all) to enjoy farm fresh fruits and vegetables from your home.

Container gardens are great for beginners. Using small and large containers you can design a beautiful landscape in any size area and they are portable. Bring the containers inside to decorate your home for special occasions.

Portable aeroponic / hydroponic tower gardens are growing in popularity, too. A tower garden grows plants in a 5-foot or taller tower and water circulates up and down the tower, watering the plants periodically. These are very popular because they come with grow lights, which makes it easy to grow fruits and vegetables year round. To learn about tower gardening look to Juice Plus Tower Gardens (www.YourJuicePlus.com) as a resource.

Whether you choose to eat organic fruits and vegetables or not, do choose health for yourself and your family. Even though not everyone agrees organic is best or the chemicals on our food are bad for us, I think everyone can agree that having a diet loaded with fruits and vegetables is not only healthy, but disease preventing.

So, if you’re like me and not so much of a gardener, you can always “grow” good health with the lifestyle choices you make every day and leave the gardening to those who are good at it. v

ABOUT THE EXPERT Cindy Cohen RN, BS BA brings with her 35 years of experience in health care from the bedside to CEO of a hospital.

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C2 Your Health LLC, through Health-E 4 Life Worksite Wellness, assisted industry leaders with certification. The company also promotes community events such as weight loss clinics, team health challenges, wellness experts seminars and the annual Expo for Women bringing wellness to the community.

Cohen has written several books, the latest “Prevention Benefits Health Employees Cost Less” (Amazon.com), “What’s on Your Plate: A Simple Guide to Healthy Cooking Second Edition” (Amazon.com) and “Transform 365 Today,” a cleansing and weight loss program.

38 | Michiana Life

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Married couples discuss life, love and commitment

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• Life | 39 Michiana

Dreams

do come true

Niles dancer makes it big in Chicago ballet company Story by Ambrosia Neldon | Photography by Wes Jerdon/Westley Leon Studios

I

n a role that critics say begs the dancer to “crash and burn,” Amber Neumann shocked audiences as she broke into tears onstage during a heartfelt performance of “Infra.”

To get into character for her role in renowned choreographer ayne MacGregor’s contemporary ballet which goes behind the scenes of city life, the Niles dancer channeled a level of pain that starkly contrasts her own personality. In fact, she danced with such passion that the performance earned her a spot in Point Magazine’s Top 10 Performances of the Year.

The bubbly, constantly smiling 23-year-old with profound interests in physics and fashion said preparing for the show was “the most intense experience.”

“There’s a strange feeling of vulnerability and safety when you have to have an emotional breakdown on stage,” Amber said during a brief visit to her hometown between a show finale and leaving for a national tour. “On the one hand you’re bearing your soul to thousands of people, and on the other hand you’re on a stage, safe and far away from reality.”

Six years into a career with one of the nation’s top ballet companies in America, Amber reflects on that performance as one of the highlights.

“I don’t know that I ever feel that I’ve completely made it, because I’m still trying to work harder and make myself better every day,” she said. “[Infra] was one of the best experiences for me at the Joffrey. It’s one of my favorite ballets. I think after doing that I kind of felt — well I felt a little bit like I made it.”

40 | Michiana Life

feature

MICHIANA LIFE

Michiana Life | 41

42 | Michiana Life

The beginning Despite the level of sorrow the dancer was able to channel for her role in “Infra,” Amber said she has a lot to smile about.

With nearly two decades of ballet under her belt and an impressive length of time professionally dancing with the Joffrey, Amber has not forgotten her humble beginnings, tagging along with her older sister to ballet class in South Bend.

“We had gone to see a show when we were very little, and Corey was dancing in the parking lot, mimicking the moves she had seen on stage,” Amber recalled of her first memories of dancing. “My mom realized she was doing a pretty good job and thought, ‘Maybe we should get her into some classes.’ And of course I had to copy everything that she did because I was the little sister.”

So, Amber and her sister began dancing in the early 1990s at the Southold Dance Theater in South Bend. For almost 15 years, Amber’s dancing experience in Michiana opened many doors — from dance camps to instructing classes to lead roles in shows like “Coppelia.”

“I didn’t actually think it was something I would able to do as a career,” Amber said. “It was kind of a pipe dream for me.”

With a goal in her heart and the reality of the small chance of making it come true constantly in the back of her mind, Amber decided to test the odds, dedicating her life to her passion for dance, despite her unknown future in it.

Because she and her sister were home-schooled (and extremely intelligent), Amber would race through her schoolwork on a non-traditional schedule in order to save up money and still have time to practice.

“Some days I would babysit in the morning and then go to a job in a little retail store, and then I would teach a little kids’ class and then finally I would have three classes of my own at night,” Amber said. “There’s no way I could have done that if I went to public or private school.”

During her senior year of high school in 2009, Amber moved to Chicago in hopes of launching a career in dance close enough to home that she could still easily visit her family. In retrospect, Amber believes her move to Chicago was the start of making her dreams come true. After the move, she attended the New York International Ballet Competition and, after three weeks of learning three potabas and practicing a solo, she and her partner took the top prize.

“After we won that I got a couple of contract offers, but not from Joffrey yet. I really wanted to be in Chicago because it was close to home,” Amber said. “Then I came back to the Joffrey Summer Intensive, and after a couple weeks I got a contract offer with Joffrey. I think that’s when I thought, ‘maybe this is something I can do for a living.’”

Michiana Life | 43

44 | Michiana Life

Dancing with theJoffrey This year Amber celebrates six years working professionally with her first company, a revolutionary organization hailed internationally as the “America’s Company of Firsts.” The Joffrey Ballet is famous for being the first company to perform at the White House, the first to appear on television, the first to commission a rock ‘n’ roll ballet, the first to be on the cover of Time Magazine, the first to incorporate multimedia in a performance and the first to have a major motion picture based on it.

Amber lives in Chicago with another dancer from the ballet, and spends most of her time in and out of work with other members from the company. During a typical week at the Joffrey, members rehearse in classes from 9:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with 10-minute breaks every hour as is required by

union regulations.

Dancers have the opportunity to perform between five and six shows per season from September to May, and get a break in the summer. In her time at the Joffrey, Amber has performed in dozens of shows, including “Othello,” “The Nutcracker,” “Cinderella,” “Unique Voices” and “Don Quixote.”

In addition to their own classes, the dancers at the Joffrey often tour the country to perform, and many help teach classes during the Joffrey’s summer intensive.

For all the blessings of making a dream come true, dancing in a professional ballet company is not without its challenges.

From sore feet to torn muscles, dancing five to seven days a week takes a toll on the body.

“I’ve never seen a ballerina with truly beautiful feet,” Amber said laughing. “They get pretty beat up. I think people sometimes don’t understand that dancers are huge athletes. We have a really high pain tolerance.”

Michiana Life | 45

However, Amber said she has learned to move past the pain, which has become more of a discomfort or a twinge the more she works. She is willing to work through the pain for all the benefits that come from her life on stage.

That same dedication is what gets her through the difficult performances, like her role in “Infra,” and a particularly challenging rendition of “Don Quixote.”

After the lead dancer in the show was injured on opening night in 2011, Amber stepped up to the challenge and learned the entire show in four hours and a dress rehearsal.

She took the stage the very next night.

“It was pretty crazy, but I had a good partner and lots of support,” she said. “It’s still one of the scariest things I’ve done for sure.”

New challenges like these are constantly presenting themselves, making her career as unpredictable as possible. In her most recent show, “Unique Voices,” Amber had to switch back and forth from cowboy boots to pointe shoes while dancing to Johnny Cash music.

“It’s definitely full of surprises” she said. “Keeps things interesting.”

Amber said there are plenty of myths that accompany professional ballet. For example, while ballerinas watch their diet just like professional athletes, she said they certainly do not go hungry.

“I actually have this funny little tradition of going out and getting a donut and a cup of coffee before shows,” Amber said. “My friends and I go out for Taco Tuesdays!”

And while some of the drama in ballet-themed movies can be true, Amber said it is usually over the top.

“It’s kind of a big family. Like all families, sometimes you get along and sometimes you don’t,” she said. “But these people mean a lot to me. A lot of times we’re touring when it’s my birthday so we’ll be out of town and I don’t get to see my family. For my 21st I was on the road, so I asked the bus driver if he would drive us to this restaurant.

Every member came out and celebrated my birthday. I remember being so excited and feeling so loved by my Joffrey family.”

Lessons learned

While she faces plenty of challenges, Amber said she wouldn’t exchange her career for anything.

“I think dance in general is good for everyone, especially younger kids because it teaches you a lot of discipline. It teaches you about commitment and music,” she said. “For me it’s always been something that I love, and it’s always pushed me to be a better version of myself.”

46 | Michiana Life

Amber said she would have never gotten to this point in her career without her family.

“I had a really great support system, and a lot of support from schools I attended and grants and scholarships I earned,” she said. “I would encourage people to support dance. If you can, it’s a wonderful thing to invest in, to help someone out like me.”

As for aspiring dancers, Amber encourages everyone to work through the pain and keep following their goals, but only if it’s something they truly want to do.

“It’s too hard of a thing to do just because you’re good at it. It’s a hard life to have on the one hand, but if you love it, it’s worth every bit,” she said. “Be your own dancer. Look to others for inspiration or guidance, but never let go or hide that one quirky thing that makes you special.” v

Michiana Life | 47

MICHIANA LIFE

48 | Michiana Life

feature

From

GRAIN to GLASS Distillery thrives in historic small town Story by Nick Shelton | Photography by Amelio Rodriguez

T

ucked away in the charming town of Three Oaks, Michigan, just a few miles east of Lake Michigan, stands the historic Warren Featherbone Factory. The building, which functioned as a corset and buggy whip factory in the late 19th Century, has been gracefully converted into Journeyman, Michiana’s very own “grain to glass” distillery.

Michiana Life | 49

The Process Journeyman, which opened in October 2011, is not your typical distillery and differentiates itself from the slew of other Midwest breweries and distilleries by focusing on authenticity.

To create truly authentic spirits, Journeyman Distillery engages in just about every step of the alcohol-making process. The grain, which is sourced from local organic farmers, is transported to the distillery where it is milled, mashed, fermented, distilled, bottled and served, all on site. Even the bottles, with their distinct shape, label and wax, take a cue from those of the 1800s.

Journeyman can also hang its hat on being a kosher and certified organic distillery, a claim that only a handful of other distilleries in the United States can make. Bill Welter, owner of Journeyman Distillery, didn’t begin distilling organic spirits accidentally.

“I’m someone who’s focused on organics, on supporting this idea of a higher-quality product,” Welter says in a video posted on Journeyman’s website. “It’s really an effort to support organic growers. We’ve got grains coming in throughout the Midwest

50 | Michiana Life

from organic farmers. That’s our way of supporting the idea and really helping to progress this organic movement.”

The Three Oaks Charm Daniel Milsk, Journeyman’s office manager and chief whiskey fanatic, discussed the choice of Three Rivers

for the distillery.

“Originally this was not the intended location. Bill is from Valparaiso, Indiana, and he really wanted to open in his hometown,” Milsk said. “Indiana liquor laws are extremely strict, but Michigan, about five years ago, changed their laws allowing an establishment to manufacture, distribute,

and serve, all in the same location. Before, you could only do one of those.”

Visitors to Journeyman will agree that the choice of venue was perfect. Reclaimed wood floors and rustic red brick walls canvas the interior, creating the simplistic setting for the distillery. Through massive glass windows, guests can spy Journeyman’s gorgeous German still, perfectly nicknamed

“Willy Wonka” for its resemblance to the Wonka Wash from the 1971 film.

Journeyman has become a haven for locals and out-of-towners alike, and Milsk believes that the distillery has positively impacted the local economy.

“We attract many out-of-state visitors.

We are a real destination location,” Milsk said. “People come just to see us, and then

stumble across everything else Three Oaks has to offer.”

The Spirits Guests of Journeyman will be impressed with the delectable selection of mixed drinks offered at the distillery’s bar, each concocted with spirits made at the establishment.

Michiana Life | 51

52 | Michiana Life

For example, the “E.K. Warren,” which was named after the Featherbone Factory’s original builder, is made with Journeyman’s Ravenswood Rye, simple syrup, fresh squeezed lemon juice and Angostura. Other drinks include the Patio Slammer, I’ll Have Another, English Garden and Sunlight’s Mistress.

In addition to mixed drinks, customers are able to choose from a massive selection of hand-crafted, small batch spirits to purchase and take home.

“We make over 10 products ourselves,” said Milsk. “It’s an insane amount of alcohol. Five varieties of whiskey, vodka, two varieties of our gin, two varieties of our rum.”

The goal of Welter, Milsk, and the rest of the Journeyman crew is as clear as the whiskey that pours from the still — to make the highest quality product that they possibly can, and to share those products with the community.

“We’re not just a place to come and get drunk,” Milk said. “Of course we do offer that service for you, but more so we’re here to educate the public on how whiskey is made, what you’re drinking, and why you’re tasting what you’re tasting. We’re here to share and explain.” v

IF YOU GO...

LOCATION 109 Generation Dr. Three Oaks, Michigan 49128 PHONE (269) 820-2050 WEBSITE journeymandistillery.com

HOURS Monday-Thursday: Noon to 10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: Noon to 11 p.m.

Sunday: Noon to 10 p.m.

Family Serving Families with Compassion & Care West Woods of Niles is a family owned & operated long term care community.

Our Five-Star Rated Facility offers private rooms, courtyards, and common areas for visiting family & friends.

Please stop in to see what we have to offer.

No appointment necessary.

West Woods of Niles Nursing Center 1211 State Line Road Niles, MI 49120 Michiana Life | 53

269.684.2810

54 | Michiana Life

feature

MICHIANA LIFE

ReCIPE RECIPE F O R

S U C C E S S

European-style bakery built legacy with hard work, family values Story by Nick Grenke | Photography by Wes Jerdon/Westley Leon Studios

T

im Foley knows the value of people.

The owner of Bit of Swiss knows the artisan bakery he and his wife have operated the past two decades would not be the popular attraction it is today without the loyalty and support of his family, staff and customers.

This is why, when customers enter Bit of Swiss Bakery in Stevensville, they shake the owner’s hand. Even though the southwest Michigan staple has expanded to new locations all over Michiana, Foley still finds it necessary to greet the people who have frequented the business for years.

And, despite his successes, Foley said he is always learning and practicing ways to make his baking and business better.

“You have to listen to the customers and find out what they liked and what recommendations they have,” Foley said.

Michiana Life | 55

While Bit of Swiss is practically a household name in Michiana because of its wide selection including dozens of breads, pastries and other sweets, the artisan bakery that southwest Michigan residents have grown to love has humble beginnings, starting with a young couple of aspiring culinary artists.

Building an empire Tim and Pat Foley first met at the California Culinary Academy in San Fransisco, and later moved to Chicago where they worked in upscale dining. The couple was living in the Windy City when they found out the small Michigan bakery was for sale in 1987.

“She was always a pastry chef first, while I was interested in that and more traditional cooking,” Tim said. “We learned a lot from each other.”

56 | Michiana Life

The business they took over was a Swiss-style bakery. They didn’t change the name or location, but the Foleys envisioned more.

While the architecture of the store still contains Swiss elements of rough cut lumber inside, a clock on the exterior and a triangle awning, the food is influenced by cultures from all over Europe, including Tim’s favorite muse: France.

“We thought it was a great opportunity,” Foley said. “We wanted to own our own business.”

Originally, the Foleys closed Bit of Swiss during the winter months, as is common with many businesses in the lakeside communities. The couple thought it would offer them time to travel and relax during the slow season. It didn’t take long for them to realize how much fun it was running their own bakery.

So, after making the decision to stay open year round, Tim started looking for ways to improve.

“My wife and I start with an inspiration and we work with it. It’s not like cooking where you add a pinch of that or a hint of this.

Baking is very scientific; all the ingredients have to be measured precisely.”

— Tim Foley

“I have a very Type A personality,” Tim said. “Baking is very hands on, and the restaurant business is very hands on. Between my wife and me, we know how to make everything in here.”

But he has also relaxed over the years.

“I’m trying to be more Type B,” Tim said with a laugh. “It’s supposed to be better for your heart health.”

The owners of Bit of Swiss are always ready to change things around a bit. That can include new items to sell, which is why feedback from his customers is so important.

“We try to add things every year to keep people interested,” Foley said.

Michiana Life | 57

Finding the right ingredients The Stevensville location has grown over the years and now Foley has a staff of more than 40 people who work there, at a new location in Granger and at his new restaurant, Bread + Bar by a Bit of Swiss in Benton Harbor.

“The people that work here are a part of our family,” Foley said.

“We realize that a key to success is keeping the right people.”

His pastry chef, Teresa Hunt, has been working at the bakery for 24 years. Hunt said she loves creating great food with the rest of the staff.

“I like the variety of it,” Hunt said as she filled an almond cake with apricot filling. “You’re always creating new things.”

58 | Michiana Life

Foley said keeping the right people is important because it can take six to nine months for a baker to learn their skills.

“That’s a long time in this industry; you have to treat people right.

When I first started I might have drove people hard, but I learned people respond better to honey than to vinegar,” he said. “You can be held hostage by constant turnover. People like stability, both employees and customers.”

One thing he attributes success to is the increased productivity from investing in bigger, better ovens.

When he first started making big changes at A Bit of Swiss one of the first things Tim did was install a 40,000 pound brick oven that was made by a French craftsman.

“We did parents’ wedding cakes and now their kids are coming in for their wedding cakes. It means a lot when people thank you for doing a good job.”

Michiana Life | 59

Rising to the top It didn’t take long for the unique European flavors produced by Bit of Swiss to be noticed.

In recent years, the shop has earned many honors, including being named the 2012 American Bakery of the Year by Modern Baking Magazine. Foley has also participated in and placed in international competitions in France as the leader of a team of American bakers.

Tim said his experiences traveling the world have helped spark his creativity.

“My wife and I start with an inspiration and we work with it,” Foley said. “It’s not like cooking where you add a pinch of that or a hint of this. Baking is very scientific; all the ingredients have to be measured precisely.”

Foley has always loved French cuisine and in 1991 he traveled to France learn more about the craft.

“The French way of cooking is done right,” Foley said. “We try to get perfection in every piece of bread; we try to get the most out of a bag of flour.”

Foley said he is still friends with other bakers who took that trip more than 20 years ago and he still talks with them as well as French chefs about new ideas and tastes.

“The artisan baking community is small; we’ve had French bakers stay in our house when they have visited,” Foley said. “They’re impressed with what we have here. We’re as good as any place in the world.”

Foley said his customers in southwest Michigan have changed in recent years as younger people working at Whirlpool have moved into the area. They are surprised to find a European-influenced bakery in Michigan.

“More people from Chicago, more people who have traveled the world are coming to this area, and they are blown away to find an artisan bakery right here in Stevensville,” Foley said.

But at the same time the bakery is still firmly rooted in the community. Foley said he loves seeing a new era of customers and is proud of the imprint Bit of Swiss has in Michiana.

“We did parents’ wedding cakes and now their kids are coming in for their wedding cakes,” Foley said. “It means a lot when people thank you for doing a good job.”

Tim and his wife have worked hard for decades to build the right recipe for a good bakery. With the right people, a good selection of breads and baked goods and a constant desire to improve, customers keep coming back.

“We’ve become a destination,” Foley said. “When you mention Bit of Swiss in this area people’s eyes light up.” v

60 | Michiana Life

Michiana Life | 61

The house that

JUDITH built

Niles woman uses love of art to convert barn to home

S

Story by Ambrosia Neldon | Photography by Wes Jerdon/Westley Leon Studios

itting on a wooden table in the corner of the Niles barn is a unique artifact from the animal kingdom.

But this didn’t come from your typical barnyard animal. Then again, this isn’t your typical barn.

Judith Racht, who owns the barnturned-house, points out the shell of an elephant’s foot very matter-of-factly, like one might show off a new set of china or a favorite book.

“Somebody had to have it, and when I was in India I rode an elephant, so I thought, ‘why not?’” she said. “I put it with all my India photos.”

This novelty item is one of countless one-of-a-kind pieces peppering the décor of the equally one-of-a-kind Racht home, on Chicago Road in Niles.

62 | Michiana Life

showcase

HOMES

Michiana Life | 63

BEFORE

MAKING A CONVERSATION After living in the relatively traditional farmhouse on the property for nearly two decades, Judith decided it was time for a change.

“There was a house, but it was close to the road and we kept thinking, ‘where can we move it?’” she said. “I really wanted to save it because it had a front porch on it like a southern plantation manor. Once you put so much money into a place, there’s got to be a stop somewhere.”

The original southern-style house that Judith’s children grew up in was eventually razed as part of a project started in 2009. The key part of the project was to convert a 19th Century barn that had been located behind the house into a fully conditioned home Today, Judith’s daughter and her family live a large farmhouse that was built adjacent to the barn. Behind both structures, a giant windmill created as an art piece

by Jim Small decorates the lawn, attracting attention from drivers passing by on the connector to US-12.

64 | Michiana Life

AFTER

Photo by Jim Yochim

Michiana Life | 65

“I like the juxtaposition of the three big posters.

They’re all sort of pointing at you. I like it.”

66 | Michiana Life

To complete this extensive project, Judith enlisted local contractors and Northworks Architects from Chicago to take on the restoration efforts, with the understanding that the professionals would leave as much of the original structure as possible while taking advantage of the spacious building to create a modernized home.

Austin DuPree, a partner at Northworks and one of the lead designers on this project, said it was one of the most fun he has worked on.

“I would say it’s definitely one of the more exciting projects I’ve worked on because it was taking something so old — the barn itself — and converting it to a very contemporary use,” he said. “I think it’s just exciting to bring something back to life. Especially with American barns, if you see one decayed and collapsing, it’s really inspirational to be able to save one of them.”

Compared to the original red traditional-style barn, the current white aluminum-sided structure is almost unrecognizable. With floor-to-ceiling windows where the sliding barn doors once stood, the sun pours in from both sides, shedding light on the truly extraordinary features inside the structure.

Just like a traditional barn, the barn house has one main floor.

To the right of the entryway is a mudroom, sectioned off from the rest of the area. On the other side of the wall, a modernized kitchen with stainless-steel appliances anchors a wide-open space.

“We were working under the understanding that it was very important for us to distinguish between what was historic verses

what were the new elements and what we were bringing to the building,” DuPree said. “We focused on trying to use materials that contrasted the old barn materials. With the big openings we chose steel windows — using a machine-made element next to something that was much more organic and shaped by human hands. It ended up really highlighting what was original.”

All of the beams in the barn are the same wood that was in the structure when Judith moved to the property in the late 1980s. With the exception of some pieces of wood that had to be replaced for roof repairs, the frame is almost entirely the same as the barn that was built during the Civil War era.

On the other side of the bar-style kitchen divider, the window openings line a sort of dining room, which divides the kitchen from the living space.

Upstairs, a loft spanning half of the width of the barn houses Judith’s bedroom, a bathroom and her favorite space, another living area that overlooks the main floor.

The real conversation starters, however, are on the walls and shelves of the barn, where Judith has slowly collected dozens of pieces to strategically decorate her home.

ALL ABOUT THE DECOR Judith, who owns Judith Racht Art Gallery in Harbert and has dabbled in interior design for a number of years, used her experience to decorate the home since moving in. Over time, the space has filled more and more with pieces ranging from famous art to auction items.

Michiana Life | 67

“I didn’t want it to be just brown. I wanted it to be eclectic,” Judith said of her initial design decisions. “It’s a mixture of things. It’s mid-century modern, it’s arts and crafts furniture, all sorts of things.”

So, Judith used her love for art to guide a vision that would create a large collection of talking points for anyone who visits. She described her sort of “House that Jack Built” in the same way that many interpret the popular British nursery rhyme — pointing out all of the people who made it what it is and leaving herself out of the story.

Each of the dozens of pieces adorning the barn walls were strategically placed to work with other pieces to create a unique viewing experience for the many who visit for parties and benefits Judith hosts at her home.

“I like the juxtaposition of the three big posters,” Judith said, pointing to the Jasper Johns felt tapestry of a pistol that hangs on one wall, the “Buy Your Victory Bonds” poster on the opposite side of the window and the “I Want You” Uncle Sam sign on an opposite-facing wall. “They’re all sort of pointing at you. I like it.”

Like the elephant’s foot that sits among her India collection, every piece in the house has a story.

Under the table that holds the foot, a gymnastic pommel horse has been transformed into a bench. A long, sturdy table separating the kitchen from the living area was once used to fold parachutes on, and a piano in another corner came from the United Nations building in New York.

“I’ve been really all over. I’ve been in Vietnam and India and all over Europe and the U.S.” she said. “There are pieces of it everywhere.”

A LIVED-IN ART MUSEUM While there are several expensive and rare pieces in the barn house, Judith is equally proud of some of the less popular works.

“I have some pieces that are by some really famous artists.

The Lichtenstein and the Stella, the Jasper Johns, but then I have this great little drawing that I don’t know who it is,

68 | Michiana Life

but it’s every bit as good as the good stuff,” Judith said. “I do a show [at the gallery] called ‘Good is Good.’ I show really mainstream recognized artists, and then I show things that I’ve found and that everybody loves. Me too.”

One of the pieces that Judith is most fond of is one called “Prairie Points,” a colorful quilt that hangs at the top of the staircase.

“It’s so anal, all those little pieces. I would still be working on it years later,” she said.

In the basement is Judith’s laundry room, an apartment her son lives in and a hallway which leads to a workout room decorated in pieces of baseball memorabilia and an indoor pool with a metal canoe hanging on the wall imitating an Ellsworth Kelly installation.

On the wall in the hallway hangs an antique Coca-Cola sign peppered with rust and what appears to be a bullet hole. Judith likes the imperfections.

“Some things should be as close to perfect as you can get them, but some things have lived a life,” she said.

Similarly, one of the mirrors in the main floor bathroom is slightly off kilter. When the contractors who installed the mirrors noticed, Judith discouraged them from hanging a new one.

“The Amish say nothing in nature is perfect, and I just liked it a little askew like that, so we left it,” she said.

At the Outsider Art Fair that Judith hosts every year, she appreciates the work of untrained artists who seem to go the extra mile to make sure their pieces are as perfect as possible.

She loves to show off the masterpieces they create, so several of them decorate the walls of her barn house. Like Judith’s house, the hairsplitting details are as captivating as the imperfections, and there’s no end to the conversations they evoke.

“I like things that demand attention,” Judith said. “I like subtlety, too.”

It shows in every nook and cranny of the barn turned home. v

Michiana Life | 69

A gallery Photography by Wes Jerdon /Westley Leon Studios

J

at home

udith Racht, owner of the one-of-a-kind barn house in Niles, Michigan, is immersed in art as the owner of Judith Racht Art Gallery in Harbert. She often brings her work home with her, and it shows — all over her walls, on table tops and filling shelves. Several pieces are by famous artists, while others were purchased at the Outsider Art Fair she hosts each year.

1. Bear climbing stairs

by William Merritt 2. A memory jug decorated in buttons, shells, kazoos and more, purchased at an auction 3. A piece made of books and board games by Charles Heinrich, purchased at the Outsider Art Fair 4. Prairie Points, created by an anonymous African American female

2 70 | Michiana Life

4

1

3

in the details

6

5 5. A Huichol mask purchased at an auction 6. One of several pieces of a baseball installation by Doug Wyant that Judith purchased from her own gallery 7. A piece made of real bird feathers by Doug Stock 8. Another piece of the baseball installation 9. A rustic Coca-Cola sign purchased at an auction 10. A piano purchased from the United Nations building in New York

HOMES

7

8

9

10 Michiana Life | 71

HOMES

do it yourself

Chandelier lamp shade

By Cricket Nelson

When we purchased our century-old home, the charm and character was what we fell in love with.

The dark wood trim, original hardwood floors and beautiful french doors are amazing, but the character of the light fixtures are not our style.

Being that they are original we didn’t want to replace them since they do function, but decided the dining room chandelier could use a new look.

So, I created a lamp shade that would cover the chandelier without having to replace it!

What you’ll need • 1 plexiglass light panel (regular plexi glass would work just as well) • 2 yards of fabric • 2 to 23 inches quilting embroidery hoops • Glue gun • Tape measure • Utility knife • Clear tape • Approximately 48 inches of string • 4 push pins • Clamps or chip clips

72 | Michiana Life

NOTE: The plexi piece was fairly fragile and got some small cracks in the edges while I was cutting it but I just taped over them before gluing the fabric and they aren’t visible.

1

The first step was to iron the fabric and cut the plexi glass. After cutting the plexi in half lengthwise and taping the halves, I measured the total length I would need to fit around the embroidery hoops, which were approximately 73 inches.

3

After the plexi was covered, I hot glued it to the hoops. Since hot glue dries quickly, I only glued small parts at a time. Then, I used plastic chip clips to help hold the hoop and plexi in place to be sure that everything would stay together until completely dry.

2

Once I had the correct amount of plexi, I measured and hot-glued the fabric to it. For the middle seam I folded over the ends of the fabric, glued them and then glued the folded edges together onto the plexi. The ends could also be sewn together prior to being glued.

4

To hang the shade, I wrapped, knotted and glued some string to the pushpins, strung the pushpins through the chain the chandelier hangs from and then pushed the pins into the wood of the hoop and hot glued them. I had two strands of string creating an “X” across the top to keep the shade balanced.

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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

www.nb-ymca.org • www.lakelandhealthfoundation.org

74 | Michiana Life

in the kitchen

FOOD

A taste of

ITALY New Buffalo serves authentic cuisine on the lake side Story by Ted Yoakum | Photography by Amelio Rodriguez

N

EW BUFFALO — With its rustic yellowbrick exterior, luscious foliage and spacious outdoor patio, Brewster’s Italian Café would fit right in the heart of Italy.

Thankfully for local foodies, the restaurant is located just off the shore of Lake Michigan in downtown New Buffalo.

For the past 22 years, the family-owned Italian eatery has been a hit with locals and tourists alike.

Whether it is because of its oven fired pizzas or its dedicated service, customers have made Brewster’s one of the city’s preeminent dining destinations.

The name “Brewster’s” likely evokes an image of a hot cup of coffee rather than a plate of pasta primavera, and rightfully so. The restaurant was actually an expansion of owner Maria Mortellaro’s coffee house, named Via Maria by Brewster’s, though it has since subsumed the identity of its progenitor while remaining focused solely on cuisine.

The heart of Mortellaro’s business remains the same now as it did when it opened more than 20 years ago: great service with a personal touch.

Pictures of fond family moments, from both the owner and the staff, dot the walls of the interior of the restaurant. The pictures serve a purpose beyond décor; it’s a reflection of the sense of family the staff feels toward each other, as many of them have been working at the restaurant since it opened.

“We’ve seen our customers’ children grow up and start to bring their children here,” said manager Carol Fournier.

“They feel like they’re a part of our family as well.”

While regulars can expect to see familiar faces whenever they walk through the door, the menu is anything but stagnant. Head chef Matt Lindey and his kitchen brigade create new menus on a daily basis, with each member of the crew bringing their personal touch to the day’s offerings.

“Each one brings something to the table,” Fournier said.

“They definitely make a great team.”

Michiana Life | 75

While a majority of the menu, such as their selection of salads, calzones, pastas and other Italian staples, adapts to incorporate seasonal ingredients, a number of dishes remain stalwarts on every menu, including the beloved tri-color tortellini. Coated in an olive oil sauce, the pasta is mixed with a melody of tomatoes, basil, garlic and reggiano. The dish is served during both lunch and dinner.

Another hit with customers are their pizzas, made with fresh, handmade crusts. Customers have the choice of selecting one their specialty pizzas, such as the cheesy Quattro Formaggi or classic Margherita, or building their own, with a choice of olive oil, pesto or tomato bases and variety of meat and vegetable toppings.

The quality of the food complements the beauty of the restaurant’s décor. The eatery overhauled its old cobblestone interior around four years ago with a contemporary red and tan color scheme, with dark wooden tables. In 2000, the business expanded to include a bar area, adding a special wine room in the process, with room for 26 customers who can reserve the space ahead of time.

During spring and summer months, though, the place to be is the outdoor patio.

“A lot of customers say we have the best outdoor seating in the area,” Fournier said. “It’s very cozy.”

While the waiting times during the warmer seasons can be quite long, Fournier said customers wanting to sample quality Italian dining with excellent, friendly service will not walk away disappointed.

“If you give us a chance, we’ll be your favorite.” v

IF YOU GO...

LOCATION

11 W. Merchant St., New Buffalo, Michigan

WEBSITE

brewstersitaliancafe.com

HOURS

Sunday-Thursday — 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday — 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

76 | Michiana Life

Michiana Life | 77

FOOD

from the cookbook

Mediterranean Chicken Pitas Ingredients 1 (10-ounce) can chicken breast, drained and flaked 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper 1 (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill 2 whole wheat pitas 4 lettuce leaves

Instructions 1. In a large bowl combine chicken, cucumber, red bell pepper, green chilies, yogurt and dill; toss to mix well.

2. Cut each pita in half horizontally; carefully open each pita half. Fill each with 2 lettuce leaves and half of chicken mixture.

Fresh Ingredients In Every Bite!

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Ingredients

Pea & Corn

Risotto Instructions

1. In 2-quart saucepan over high heat, heat chicken broth to simmering; keep warm.

4 cups canned low sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extr a-virgin olive oil 1 small onion, dice d 1 cup Arborio rice 1 (11-ounce) can no salt added whole-kernel corn , drained 1 (8.5-ounce) can lo w sodium peas, drained 1/4 cup grated Pa rmesan cheese 1 tablespoon butt er Salt and ground bl ack pepper, to taste

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2. Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, in hot olive oil, cook onion until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Add rice and cook for 2 minutes until coated with oil. Gradually add chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, until absorbed, stirring frequently. Continue adding remaining broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring occasionally, cooking rice until al dente, about 25 minutes.

3. Stir in corn, peas, Parmesan cheese and butter to heat through. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Michiana Life | 79

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Community Of Action

80 | Michiana Life

East Main Gardens Florist 1521 E. Main St. • Niles, MI (269) 683-8000 • (800) 924-7525 www.EastMainGardensFlorist.com

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

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Celebrating 100 Years Life | 81 in Michiana Business!

Why I

L VE Michiana

Story by Scott Novak | Photography by Kristi Weston/KWest Photography

Miss Blossomtime 2014 believes living in a small town has helped her succeed

B

eing the sister of a former Miss Buchanan, Roxie Elliot knew she wanted to follow in her footsteps and compete for not only the local pageant crown, but in the regional Blossomtime pageant.

Elliot won the Miss Buchanan title in November of 2013 and went on to win Miss Blossomtime 2014 just over a year ago. Now that the 18-year-old has crowned her successor, she reflects on her busy year as queen of southwest Michigan and is thankful for the experience. Today, Roxie attends Western Michigan University, where she is studying to become a broadcast journalist.

ML: What was it like to be crowned Miss Buchanan/Miss Blossomtime?

RE: It was pretty crazy. We had not had a Miss Buchanan be crowned Miss Blossomtime in 33 years, so that was a huge honor for me and it was something that I really wanted to do growing up. I always knew about Miss Buchanan because my sister was Miss Buchanan, so I knew about being in Miss Blossomtime. I really wanted to do it for my community.

ML: Being Miss Blossomtime, you’ve seen a lot of communities.

What do you think makes Buchanan unique by comparison?

RE: I know there are other small communities, but Buchanan just has something special. From the student section at the high school to how united we always were at our schools. Our community is always so eager to jump in and support whatever is going on.

I felt that a lot when I won Miss Buchanan and when I won Miss Blossomtime my whole school was so supportive. The gas station, the bank, anything that had a sign had a congratulations message for me.

82 | Michiana Life

I just feel like you do not get that everywhere. You definitely do not get that in a big city.

ML: What is your favorite place to visit when you’re home in Buchanan?

RE: One of my favorite places is the Sweet Shop in Buchanan because it has been around for so long. When my dad was in high school that was the place to go so he made sure when we grew up we went there. I have a lot of fond memories at the Sweet Shop. We have so many cute little restaurants like the Bucktown Tap and the McCoy Creek Tavern. It is like everything has a little title to remind you that you are in Buchanan. Wheatberry is so good and there is RedBud, and it’s kind of funny that the largest motocross race is in little Buchanan.

That weekend Buchanan just changes and it is just this national scene that everybody wants to be at.

ML: How do you think your hometown shaped who you are today?

RE: It just completely shaped me into who I am today. It was actually what my final question was at Miss Blossomtime. They asked me ‘if I could change anything about my community, would I?’ I said no because I had felt it shaped me perfectly for the future. A lot of people think that because you live in a small town you hate it and cannot wait to get out.

But for me, it just feels so special because I feel like I always can call home and there are people there who really care about me and support me. That is comforting for me now that I am in college because I can always come back here and it is like a sigh of relief because I am back in my hometown. v

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