Off The Water - January 10-16, 2014

Ice fishing

Wine, food and jazz

LMC hosts Winter Delights............. p.4

Week of January 10-16, 2014

FREE

Weather perfect for winter sport... p. 5

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

Volume 6, Number 2

An Art Evolution

Chartreuse Gallery...p. 2

www.offthewater.com

Page 2 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

ON DISPLAY

Co-op Gallery evolves like art itself

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater @leaderpub.com Now in its eighth year, Chartreuse Co-op Art Gallery, located at 304 State St. in St. Joseph, Mich., continues to offer artists a place where their work can grow and change, just as the co-op does.

“I’ve never seen a co-op with such a long history.

And, there’s been a lot of turnover at Chartreuse. To me, that’s what has made it successful,” said Dave Smykal, a mixed-media artist who is now starting his fourth year with the co-op.

“It’s never stagnant. Even though you could be here for seven years, because of all the changes with everyone else, your work continues to change.”

“Three of the founding members are still active in the co-op today — Jerry Sirk, Molly Moran and Margaret Hogeboom,” said Lynne Tan, a ceramics artists who joined the co-op in 2009.

Chartreuse currently features the work of 21 artists who work in a variety of media, including fiber arts, glass, ceramics, pen and ink, photography, watercolors and beaded jewelry, just to name a few.

Four of the newest members of the co-op are woodworker Larry Erdman and glass artists Cindy Fielding, Carolyn O’Hearn and Lynne Clayton.

Since it operates as a cooperative, Chartreuse provides both members and visitors with some uncommon advantages.

Artists commit to working at the store about 15 hours per month, which provides visitors with the opportunity to talk with them about their art and that of other member artists. At the same time, members of the co-op are able to continue working on other ventures.

One of those artists, Dave Smykal, has found a way to combine both his art and his non-artistic endeavors while helping another artist, Brian Cooley, develop as an artist in his own right.

“I work with Brian Cooley at Gateway, and I’m a job developer, or a job coach,” Smykal explained, referring to his position with the non-profit organization that provides job training to disabled people. “Chartreuse is a nice place to work. And for Brian, who has a disability, he can show people that he is able to work in the

Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Artist David Smykal with one of his primitive signs; rings by Christina Root; magnets created by David Smykal; Artist Brian Cooley with some of his work. community, and his work is wonderful.”

“Brian works with pen and ink, and he’s autistic, so he represents artists as well as people with disabilities.

People just love him,” Smykal said.

“Brian had quite a bit of interest in drawing, just because of his autism. It was a form of communication for him,” Smykal explained.

“When he was drawing, he should have been working at recycling, which we use to train people at Gateway, and we’d be like, ‘Brian, get back to work.’”

“It’s sad, but it’s a wonderful story because he knew what he wanted to do. He didn’t want to recycle; he wanted to draw. So, now he’s able to do that,” Smykal said.

“Because of Chartreuse being so forward, they juried Brian in, just as anybody else. It didn’t matter that he was autistic,” Smykal said.

“Now, Brian tells me everyday, ‘I love my job!’”

“As his job coach, I am his transportation, and I

cover the register. He opened the store today, with verbal prompting. So, he’s just like anybody else. He just needs a little help, and I like to give it because then he has a chance to show his art, so that’s important,” Smykal said.

“Brian says, ‘I love coming in to work. I love going to Chartreuse,’ and that makes it worth it. And, that’s what Chartreuse means to him. It gives somebody with autism a chance to be a real person,” Smykal said. “For me, it’s a chance to show my work among other quality work.”

Smykal’s work can be found on what he calls his “crazy wall of craziness” in the gallery. His pieces include greeting cards, magnets and signs that he has painted on driftwood or barn wood. He then paints sayings on them, some that he has culled from his memories of his grandmother, and some that are little edgier and more modern.

“My grandma always said things to us, like ‘Go

jump in the lake’ or ‘Wicked chickens lay deviled eggs.’

That was my grandma.

People just seem to associate with some of these older sayings,” Smykal said.

“I love it. It just really works for me,” said Smykal, of Chartreuse. “It just makes me want to have a business of my own, and I think that’s what the co-op is good for. It

ON THE FRONT

helps promote that.”

Visitors can view and purchase the work of Smykal, Cooley, Tan and the many other talented local artists at Chartreuse on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Samples of their work can also be viewed at www.

chartreuseartgallery.com.

“The aim of the co-op is to connect local artists with the public — to provide local artists with a venue to sell their work, and to give the public (locals and tourists) a one-stop venue to see and to buy local art,” said Tan. “Chartreuse has proved to be a training ground for local talent.”

Photos featured on the front page are submitted pictures of pieces created by members of the Chartreuse Co-op Art Gallery. Featured are a handmade glass pendant by Cathy Brown; “Winter Trees” by Cindy Fielding; “Pier Sunset” by David Wheeler; a handmade sign by Dave Smykal, Smykman Primitives; “Moon Crater” by Jerry Sirk; a ceramic birdfeeder by Lynne Tan; a glass platter made with local wine bottles by Rhonda Snowaert and handmade jewelery by Heather Seawright.

Off The Water, Michiana

TOURIST FOR A DAY

Week of January 10-16, 2014 • Page 3

Discover the local destinations right in your own backyard

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park is 'hidden gem'

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater @leaderpub.com Scott Wyman, director of Cass County Parks, has a goal: to introduce more people to what he calls “an often-overlooked winter wonderland.”

That wonderland is the Dr. T. K. Lawless Park, located at 15122 Monkey Run St. in Vandalia, Mich.

It is named in honor of the Chicago-based doctor who donated the land to Cass County in appreciation of the friends he made during his retreats there.

The park’s 820 acres provide the setting for a wide variety of outdoor activities year-round.

“We allow people to use the property in many ways,” said Wyman, who has been with Cass County Parks for 27 years. “The park hours are seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.”

During the winter months, visitors to the park can enjoy sledding, crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing on a daily basis.

One fun way to get a taste of T. K. Lawless Park is to visit during their Discover Winter Nights program. These family-oriented events will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. on five Saturday evenings, including Jan. 18 and 25, and Feb. 1, 8 and 15.

Daily admission to the park is $1 for county residents and $3 for non-residents.

However, on Discover Winter Nights, admission is $2 per person, which covers the cost of using the cross-country ski

trails, the sledding hill, and some other activities as well. A small parking fee is also charged.

“We’ll light up our tubing hill that evening. We provide innertubes. People can also bring their own tubes as well. We allow plastic sleds, but no sleds that you would stand up on,” Wyman said. “So, we don’t allow any toboggans, snowboards, or runner-type sleds. We try to promote soft plastic sleds and innertubes. We’re pretty safe out there.”

“We have seven miles of hiking and cross-country trails, and I can groom all seven miles,” Wyman said.

“For Discover Winter Nights, I mark out three miles of cross-country trails with smudge pots — the flattest and easiest trails. It can be very beautiful in the evening.”

While the park does have innertubes, it does not provide skis or snowshoes.

So, people who wish to enjoy those activities must bring their own.

Other fun activities that Lawless has offered during Discover Winter Nights are sleigh rides and hayrides, which cost an additional $2 per person.

“In the past, we’ve had sleigh rides and hayrides, either horse- or wagondrawn,” Wyman said.

“We’re still making the final plans for that. On a cool, crisp winter evening, the kids really get a kick out of it.”

The park also has two areas for visitors to warm up and to enjoy indoor activities.

“Our ‘Friends’ group

Submitted photo

Tubing at Dr. T.K. Lawless Park. provides refreshments in the warming area. We have a fireplace in there for people to warm up,” Wyman said. “And, new for this year, we recently built a maintenance building where we have a 50-person capacity community room.”

“We’ll have a movie night there during our Discover Winter Nights on Jan. 25.

We’ll also have a craft night on Feb. 8 where kids can make a craft to present to their parents for Valentine’s Day,” Wyman said.

“This new community room is also available to rent throughout the year for birthday parties and other events. It has modern bathroom and kitchen facilities,

Tests for identifying valuable antiques

By LORI VERDERAME, PH.D. — correctly identified that object before they sold it to Over the years, many of you. you have told me how antique dealers and other Shedding Black Light resellers, helpful neighbors, and even your cousI think people just like in, Joe--your family’s self the idea of using a black proclaimed antiques expert light. It’s one of the favor— have suggested some ite tools of the art and interesting testing methods antiques world. It seems to to help identify your represent a cross between antiques.

Maxwell Smart’s shoe I think it is funny that phone and the TV show, this testing information is CSI. In the case of antiques, provided to buyers only it isn’t CSI, but rather ASI after you bought an object. or Antique Scene Why don’t the sellers try Investigation. Ok, so you these tests themselves purchase a black light. You before they sell the object hold it up to that mysterito you? If their test pro- ous painting and now vides certain results, they what? What should you could have done what was see? a hidden message? a required in the first place never before seen signa-

ture? The black light might reveal something previously unseen, but what does that really tell you about identification or value? Not much!

In all fairness to black lights, they do help reveal glued repairs on porcelains, new pigments or paint cracks on works of art, and other hard to see elements when employing only the naked eye. After you’ve used that revealing black light, most people still need an expert to review your piece.

Sometimes the original artist painted over another painting simply because he or she couldn’t afford a new canvas. We’ve all reused things and artists are

but there is no fireplace in there,” Wyman said.

Dr. T. K. Lawless Park also accommodates visitors who wish to go ice fishing.

“We have four lakes on the property for ice fishing,” Wyman said, “two smaller ones that are 10 acres or so each, and two larger lakes on the eastern side of the property.”

“They have a variety of panfish. We’ve got some hardy souls that like fishing the lakes,” Wyman said. “We follow all of the DNR rules for limits and licenses.”

Those lakes can also be fished in the spring, summer and fall. Many other activities can are offered throughout the year at the

COLUMNIST

park, including a trail system that is popular with cyclists.

“People can find us on Facebook at Cass County Parks or call (269) 4454456 if people are wondering if we are going to have an event due to weather conditions,” Wyman said.

More information can also be found on the park’s

Off The Water | The place to be entertained.

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

Michael Caldwell Publisher (269) 687-7700 michael.caldwell@leaderpub.com

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jill.mccaughan@leaderpub.com

no different. Also, over the years paintings get “helped” or “enhanced” by Aunt Sue who added a wedding ring on the hand of a sitter in a family portrait or an extra See ANTIQUES page 4

Sales Donna Knight Classifieds (269) 687-7717

Ambrosia Neldon Layout Editor (269) 687-7713 Jill McCaughan Feature Writer (269) 687-7704

Dr. Lori Verderame Arts & Antiques

website at www.casscountymi.org/CountyParks/ DrTKLawlessPark.aspx.

Wyman hopes that more people will come and take advantage of the beautiful property that Dr. Lawless donated to the county.

“I often hear folks say the park is a hidden gem of southwest Michigan,” Wyman said.

Anne Johnson Creative Services (269) 687-7701 anne.johnson@leaderpub.com

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

Lindsey Cloutier (269) 687-7723 Mary Cooper (269) 687-7724 mary.cooper@leaderpub.com

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

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

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

Cindy Klingerman Distribution Manager (269) 687-7727 cindy.klingerman@leaderpub.com

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Page 4 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

FOCUS

Winter Delights to showcase wine, jazz, food

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater @leaderpub.com Although the trellises in Michigan’s vineyards may well be covered by drifting snows, the Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College will soon offer wine lovers an opportunity to mingle with Michigan vintners and sample the fruits of their labors at the 5th Annual Winter Delights Festival.

“We have 23 Michigan wineries and a few local restaurants that will have booths with foods to taste,” said Tonya Martindale, director of conference and event services for the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center.

The event will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Jan. 18 in the Grand Upton Hall of the Mendel Center on the Lake Michigan College campus, located at 2755 E. Napier Ave. in Benton Township, Mich.

“Tickets are $35 prepurchase and $40 at the door,” Martindale said.

“That includes 15 wine samples and $10 in food tickets.”

Event tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at (269) 927-1221 or by visiting the event’s website at www.winterdelightsfestival.com. Special pricing on tickets for designated drivers is also available.

These tickets are just $15,

and they include $10 worth of food tickets. All eventgoers must be 21 years or older.

“It’s nice to pair some local food with the wines,” Martindale said.

“It’s fun to go around to the booths and meet some of the people who are making the wines,” Martindale said. “They can answer questions about the wines they’ve decided to bring to the festival. There will be some of the same wines from last year, but there will also be a lot of different wines as well.”

Michigan wineries that will be featured in the festival include local favorites as well as those from farther afield. Event-goers can expect to meet vintners and sommeliers from 12 Corners Vineyards, Baroda Founders Wine Cellar, Domaine Berrien Cellars, Leelanau Cellars Winery, Lehman’s Orchards, Lemon Creek Winery and White Pine Winery, just to name a few. A complete list of participating wineries can be found on the event’s website.

Restaurants and catering companies will include Santaniello’s Glenlord Restaurant, Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant and the Mendel Center’s Conference and Event Catering Services. Piggott’s Farm Market & Bakery and the Michigan State

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University Extension will be represented as well.

“Purely Michigan and Lambrecht’s Liquors of St. Joseph will also be there with booths,” Martindale said.

For those who would like to learn even more about Michigan wines, two classes will be offered for an additional $10 each.

In “Wine 101,” certified sommelier Jason Forbes will teach participants how to evaluate wine like a professional in a fun and educational 40-minute seminar.

“Judgment of Michigan” 5th Annual offers participants the opportunity to engage in a blind taste test in which Michigan wines will be set up against California counterparts.

Featuring Bryan Lubeck and the Acoustic Vineyard Entertainment during the festival will be provided by Saturday, January 18, 2014 Bryan Lubeck, known for Lake Michigan College Mendel Center his special blend of Spanish Benton Harbor, MI guitar and urban grooves.

“Bryan Lubeck is just 5pm – 9pm amazing,” Martindale said.

“His CD is in the Top 40 for the jazz charts.”

Lubeck has released four albums, including the most recent, “Tuscan Sky,” Tickets: $35 advanced/ $40 at the door Online ticket fees apply which came out in 2013.

Festival glass, 15 wine samples, $10 of food tickets, and an evening of entertainment included with entry The single, “Tuscan Sky,” Sponsored by: was listed by “Billboard” as one of the top five songs added to radio play in October 2013. His other albums include “Acoustic Vineyard,” “Vineyard Groove” and “We Three Strings.”

With Lubeck’s stated goal being the creation of albums that people can Submitted photos enjoy along with a glass of wine, organizers view him Bryan Lubeck will be performing at the Winter Delights Festival. as a natural choice for entertainment at the Winter one who enjoys listening to wineries,” Martindale said. break for people to come smooth jazz and who wants “We look forward to it out of the cold and enjoy Delights Festival.

“This festival is for any- to support local Michigan every winter. It’s a nice Michigan wines.”

MICHIGAN WINES, LOCAL FOODS AND JAZZ

www.winterdelightsfestival.com (269) 927-1221

ANTIQUES continued from page 3 leaf or two to a tree in an old landscape painting.

Still, not much help with identification. Trained appraisers like me look at the back of the painting and the foundation of a work — in natural light!

At my appraisal events, I try to contain myself when someone offers me a black light to identify an American painting that was made in 1990. I think back to my experience in academic institutions and museums and I can recall very few situations when I or my colleagues relied solely on a black light for identification purposes. Black lights, fun as they are, will only provide part of the big picture. Need to know the real deal about art and antiques? Ask an expert to take a look.

Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s hit TV show, Auction Kings. To learn about your antiques, visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/ DoctorLori, @DrLori on Twitter, or call (888) 431-1010.

An authentic original oil painting of Motif #1 Gloucester Harbor by African

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of January 10-16, 2014 • Page 5

GET OUT!

Ice fishing season in full swing

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater@leaderpub.com

With the arctic temperatures that have descended upon Michiana in the last month or so, ice fishing shanties are popping up on many inland lakes.

Passersby, searching for some winter fun of their own, may think, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.”

But how can a novice get into a sport that seems to take a lot of gear and knowhow?

“You could come in here never having fished before, and you could leave here ready to fish,” said Randy “R.J.” Jesensky, a manager at Lunker’s. “The employees here could set you up and tell you which lakes have easy access.”

“One of the things we pride ourselves on here at Lunker’s is that all of our employees do fish or hunt, so we can relate to customers,” Jesensky said of the tackle store located at 26324 U.S. 12 in Edwardsburg, Mich.

While many hard-core ice fishermen have shanties with all of the comforts of home, one need only purchase a few items in order to get started in the sport.

“Really, it doesn’t take that much,” said Capt.

Todd Brill, a professional fishing guide from St. Joseph, Mich. “To start out ice fishing, you just need a very simple rod and reel , a small amount of tackle, an auger, a spud, a few baits and a spoon or ladle, and you’re out ice fishing.”

“You’ll want to have a good pair of boots and dress appropriately for it.

Being warm out there is critical, especially if you’re going to take kids,” said Brill. “You want it to be a good experience, so make it as easy on yourself as possible.”

Lunker’s carries both the cold-weather clothing and all the gear that anglers need to head out on the ice.

“Most people either have an ice suit or insulated bib overalls or a snowmobile outfit,” Jesensky said.

“A lot of people wear pack boots. They’re rated to 40 or 50 degrees below zero.”

“To get started in the fishing process, the first thing you would need to have is something to drill a hole in the ice,” Jesensky said. “We have drills that start in the $60 range.”

“I would say that’s probably your biggest investment, an auger—or drill,”

Brill noted.

“You could even use a spud to cut a hole. Basically, it’s just a piece of flatiron with a beveled point,” Jesensky said. “Most people who fish a lot don’t do that. They’ll use it to test the ice thickness when they’re going out on the ice.”

start at $8.”

When it comes to the tackle, ice fisherman usually use a jig, which is a lead-weighted hook tipped with a spike or a waxworm, an ice fly or a hook tipped with a minnow.

“There’s a whole assortment of jigs,” Jesensky said. “There are just so

many options you can go with.”

Beyond the basic gear, both Jesensky and Brill mentioned several elements that are crucial for safety out on the ice: polar picks, boot spikes, and most importantly, knowledge of the ice conditions.

A tackle store like Lunker’s

can provide all three.

“Polar picks are something so small, but they can save your life. You can wear these around your neck, and if you happen to fall through the ice, you can use these to pull yourself out,” Jesensky said.

“These can also be made by tying two screw-

Submitted photos

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Capt. Brill with a northern pike caught while ice fishing; A basic ice fishing set-up with a tip-up.

“After you drill your hole, there’s a lot of chips and shavings left in the hole, so you use one of these ladles to strain the ice out,” Jesensky said.

After the hole in the ice has been drilled, it’s time to fish. And, when it comes to gear, there are options to fit any budget.

“To go fishing with your kids, you can buy something as simple as an outfit that comes complete with a jig, the reel, and the pole.

It’s got a spring bobber on it. It’s all ready to fish. This one is $12,” Jesensky said.

“Old-fashioned tip-ups

drivers onto the ends of a parachute cord, and you wear it around your neck,” Brill said. “I would also suggest having some spikes that just snap onto your boots. It can be very slippery out on the ice.”

Finally, it is essential to know which lakes—and even which parts of a lake—are safe.

“Typically, you want to see 5 inches of ice out there. You can get out on less, but without any experience, it’s better to be safe,” Brill said. “If you go to a lake that already has a bunch of people out fishing on it, then you know the ice is safe. You can also check the Michigan DNR’s website for ice reports.”

Another website that some fishermen check is www.icefishingchat.com.

“This year, most of the lakes are safe, but there are some that I wouldn’t venture out on. Use caution,” said Butch Taylor, a fishing specialist at Lunker’s.

“Like Birch Lake—that’s 80 foot of water. If there are no tracks going out there, and there’s not activity, then you want to check it with a spud.”

“Some lakes have springs. It could be 6 inches of ice here, and you go 20 feet over, and there’ll be only 2 inches,” Jesensky added.

As long as safety is taken into consideration, ice fishing can add a whole new level of fun to the long Michiana winters.

“You can target all species of fish, and it’s something you can do after work,” Brill said. “You get out of work at 5 o’clock.

On your way home, you pick up a couple dozen minnows, meet your buddies with a lantern out there on the ice, and you can catch crappie all night long.

It’s a blast!”

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Page 6 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

CUISINE SCENE

Wood Fire heating up Dowagiac

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater@leaderpub.com Just about six months ago, Jim Kramer took the helm at Wood Fire, the Italian trattoria located at 134 S. Front St. in Dowagiac, Mich.

“Things are going really well — better than I had imagined,” Kramer said.

“The local response has been great. We’re a destination restaurant, and so when that’s the case, it’s always hardest to reach the people closest to you.”

Kramer has implemented a number of ideas designed to bring in more local traffic, including offering some weekday specials.

Those specials, available from 4 to 8:30 p.m., are generally priced at $9.99. They include smoky baby back ribs on Sundays, Italian pot roast on Mondays, and chicken florentine on Wednesdays. On Tuesdays, pizzas are two for the price of one. More specials can be found by checking Wood Fire’s Facebook page.

In response to popular demand, Kramer has also introduced a bar menu that is available from 4 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays, 4 to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and 2 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

It includes various types of sliders, brats, buffalo wings, nachos and chili.

That menu and other information can be found at www.woodfiredining.com.

Kramer has also worked to accommodate guests whose schedules are not always considered on special occasions such as New Year’s Eve. By offering patrons the opportunity to toast the new year as it began in various locations around the globe, Kramer was able to provide a special evening for guests who preferred to call it an early night. This schedule also allowed families with children to go out for a special evening and celebrate the new year without staying out past midnight.

“Little things like that help people connect. That allows them to come out earlier,” Kramer said.

“New Year’s Eve was wonderful. We had a record evening.”

Plans for upcoming holidays at Wood Fire will also take into consideration those diners who prefer to come in earlier.

“We’ll do a big Valentine’s Day celebration all day long,” Kramer said.

“Our Easter brunch is also coming up.”

While Kramer has made some changes at Wood Fire, he has also kept some traditions alive, including offering live music on Friday nights throughout the winter.

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Leader photos/JILL McCAUGHAN

The Wood Fire Italian Trittoria in Dowagiac, Mich.

“On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, we’ll have live music during the summer,” Kramer said.

Another feature that hasn’t changed much is the staff at Wood Fire.

Although Kramer’s daughter, Candice, now works at the restaurant, he did not add many close friends or family members to the managerial staff, as he has done upon acquiring other restaurants.

“It’s funny because, up until Wood Fire, a lot of my family and friends have been involved in running each restaurant,” Kramer said. “We have great people at Wood Fire. They’re doing a great job!”

One last change that has taken place in the last six

months is that Kramer has retired from his post as the minister of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Hinsdale, Ill. He can now focus full-time on his “hobby” of making sure that his five restaurants are running smoothly.

“I have four other restaurants: Tim’s Too in St. Joseph, Roma’s Pizza in New Buffalo, Nancy’s at the Lake in New Buffalo, and Jake’s at the Beach in New Buffalo,” Kramer said.

When it comes to Wood Fire, Kramer clearly feels that things are going just fine.

“We have a really great staff, good people at Wood Fire,” Kramer said. “I couldn’t ask for better.”

Off The Water, Michiana

Week of January 10-16, 2014 • Page 7

Celery Root and Parsnip Pancakes I’ve heard on several foodie blogs that celery root is going to be a popular vegetable in 2014. I’d never worked with it before, and as someone who likes to stay on the cutting edge of what’s happening, I figured I better get at it.

I did some research about how to work with celery root and what it goes well with and decided to make them into savory pancakes like potato pancakes.

I read that the flavor is sweet and the texture is similar to that of parsnips or other root vegetables. I decided to mix in some shredded parsnips as well since the flavors sounded like they would pair well together. The nuttiness of the parsnips really

COLUMNIST

Kat Barry Kat's Hot Talk enhanced the sweetness of the celery root, and some chopped fresh parsley really brightened the dish.

These are great served for brunch or dinner with a side of vegan sour cream

and a salad or some roasted Brussels sprouts.

Kat Barry, a Saint Joseph, Mich. native, is owner of Kat’s Hot Cakes vegan catering, and co author of The New Chicago Diner Cookbook, Meat Free Recipes from America’s Veggie Diner.

She also develops recipes for eHow.com where you can find more than 30 of her vegan instructional cooking videos. Kat currently resides in Chicago, and in her free time she enjoys practicing yoga, sampling local spirits, listening to live music, and getting outdoors.

Follow @katshotcakes on twitter.

Kat can be reached via email at: kat@katshotcakes.com.

Celery Root and Parsnip Pancakes Yield: about 8 pancakes

1 celery root, peeled and shredded 2 parsnips, peeled and shredded ¼ cup gluten free flour mix (I use Bob’s Red Mill) ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped ½ teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon sea salt About ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste ½ cup canola or grapeseed oil 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except oil, with clean hands.

Mix well to ensure the flour and baking powder are evenly distributed.

2. Take about ½ cup of the mixture in your hands, and squeeze tightly to form a ball. They won’t be very tight, so gently place them on a plate. Repeat until you use all the ingredients.

3. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat until it starts to bubble. Reduce to medium high, and place four of the pancakes in at a time. Fry for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Be sure to press the cakes down with your turner to solidify them. You also want to move the cakes around in the pan carefully so as to prevent sticking and to help the cake ingredients bind together.

4. Place golden brown cakes on a plate covered with a paper towel to drain a bit of the oil.

5. Serve with vegan sour cream or Sriracha mayo.

Looking ahead to wine in 2014 The only good thing about looking forward at the start of the year is no one remembers your predictions a week or so later.

That said, there are lots of trends and movement in the wine world which will have an impact on the average wine drinker.

For the first Grape Sense of 2014, it makes sense to look ahead a bit.

Moscato – That sweet white wine that seems to be everywhere is explod-

ing. But that’ s not news since it all started in 2012.

Sales increased by a third in 2012 with little sign of letting up in 2013. The light alcohol and light fizz has proven wildly popular with younger consumers.

From hip-hop artists to long-time sweet wine lovers, Moscato has become the go-to beverage.

California is providing most of the sweet white but look for other labels to join the band wagon.

Furthermore, check out your local grocery, wine shop, or liquor store shelves and you’ll find major labels offering a variety of sweet wines.

Red wine blends are another area continuing to expand and grow. A good red wine blend can go from the inoffensive to nuanced and satisfying to even the most discerning wine drinker. Better yet, you can often get big bold flavors from a good

CASH FOR GOLD

California or Washington blend at a fraction of the cost of single variety wines. Red wine blends offer some of the best value options for better wine.

The biggest sales growth areas are Moscato, sweet red blends, and Malbec. Malbec is a great intro point for those trying to expand beyond Cabernet, Merlot and Pinot Noir. It’s a great food wine and a wonderful way to

COLUMNIST

start exploring beyond your normal tastes.

Millenials and apps have been the talking points for much of the wine media over the last few years. Younger people are the fastest growing segment of the wine-buying population. They do drink sweeter wines but they are also very willing to try something new.

The younger section of See WINE page 8

Howard Hewitt Grape Sense

Page 8 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

SPOTLIGHT

'Leading Ladies' at South Bend Civic Theatre

By JILL McCAUGHAN offthewater@leaderpub.com South Bend Civic Theatre, an awardwinning and nationally-ranked theater, company is opening its 2014 season with “Leading Ladies” on Jan. 18.

Organizers hope that the comedy, which runs through Feb. 2, will give theatergoers a reason to come in from the cold.

“It’s just a wonderful comedy to brighten up these cold winter days,” said Scot Shepley, marketing director for the theater company.

“The play is by Ken Ludwig, who is very famous for farces in the theater community,” Shepley said. “His plays, like ‘Moon over Buffalo,’ are some of the standards of contemporary comedic theater.”

“The play takes place in the 1950s.

Two English Shakespearean actors, down on their luck, and acting out of desperation, see a newspaper article about a dying widow who is seeking out her long-lost nephews, but it turns out that she is really looking for her nieces,” Shepley explained.

Undeterred by this twist, the actors resolve to impersonate the nieces in order to secure the fortune, and one absurd situation develops out of another.

“They both have love interests, and they are also pursued by gentleman, as well as by someone who is rather suspicious of them,” Shepley said. “The characters get themselves into all kinds of crazy predicaments.”

Audience members who are familiar with Shakespeare may find that the plot of “Leading Ladies” sounds rather reminiscent of “Twelfth Night,” and that is no coincidence.

“The playwright, Ken Ludwig, is a very strong aficionado of Shakespeare.

He’s even written a book, ‘How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare,’” Shepley pointed out.

“One of the things the characters do

is put on a little bit of ‘Twelfth Night.’

You have some of that Shakespearean cross-dressing comedy. Knowing that adds a whole new level of depth to the play,” Shepley said. “It is a little bit of a play within a play.”

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Directed by Leigh Taylor, the cast includes Martha Branson-Banks, Christy Burgess, Matt Deitchley, Zach Gassman, Casey St. Aubin, Bill Svelmoe, and Jared Windhauser.

“The actors are all volunteers drawn

from our local area. Some are familiar faces, and some are new faces,” Shepley said. “We came up with a good group.”

“Leading Ladies” performs in the Wilson Theatre, located at 403 N. Main St. in South Bend, Ind. Performance times are 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Tickets are $18 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and $15 on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Tickets can be purchased online at www.sbct.org or by calling the box office at (574) 234-1112.

The South Bend Civic Theatre will take up a literary theme again later this season.

“In October, we’ll be having a world premiere of an original adaptation of Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein,’” Shepley said.

The St. Joseph County Public Library is featuring the book this spring, and members of the company hope to tie the production into the activities at the library.

“It will be an outgrowth of workshops where actors, designers, the playwright and the director will all be creating ideas that will coalesce into the final script,” Shepley explained. “Their ideas will serve as a pool for the playwright to draw from. That will all culminate in a production that we hope will be thrilling for audiences.”

Residents of the South Bend area who would like to become involved in the activities at the South Bend Civic Theatre are welcome to contact them about volunteer opportunities.

“We are very much interested in volunteers coming in and helping out in all sorts of capacities. We need volunteers to help out backstage, as ushers, making costumes, running the lights and sound, and even representing us in the community in various capacities,” Shepley said. “We are very much a community theater in the very best sense of the word.”

WINE continued from page 7 the market is also driving wineries, marketers, and everyone else in the wine business to go more digital. There are smartphone applications to find wine, rate wine, and journal your own w i n e drinking.

Packaging is another area where innovation continues to push the market. Wine is turning up on shelves, particularly value wine, in single servings, all shapes of paper and glass containers, and other new ways to supplant the 750ml bottle.

The other states continue to improve wine quality. It’s hard for Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana to get the world’s attention with its small production of wine. But the quality of the ‘other states’ wines continue to improve. Each year I visit quite a few Indiana wineries, and a few in surrounding states, the quality continues to show considerable improvement. It’s not just the top producers but some of the smaller state wineries have learned to focus on quality.

Wine travel is a great vacation and another industry that just grows and grow. I will be joining that trend in 2014 by leading a boutique-type experience in Oregon’s Willamette Valley in June. Whether it’s a trip you plan yourself or an organized wine adventure, the internet has really made it easy to plan a great wine vacation. Write me at the email address below if you’d like information on the Oregon trip I’m hosting or simply to add your name to my mailing list for future trips.

Happy New Year to all. Thank you for reading Grape Sense!

Howard W. Hewitt, Crawfordsville, In., writes about value wine every other week for 23 Midwestern newspapers. You can write Howard at: hewitthoward@gmail.com

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Off The Water, Michiana

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Week of January 10-16, 2014 • Page 9

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OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT

1st office space has dual entrances off 4th & Sycamore in Niles and has 1 large office or can be divided into 2 smaller offices. Lease includes heat, gas, water, sewer, $800/month for both offices or $450/month for one. 2nd office space has 1 entrance off 4th St. in Niles and has a reception area plus 2 offices, $350/month. Call or email mike.caldwell@leaderpub. com.

(269)687-7700

Houses for Sale 500 DOWAGIAC DOLLHOUSE

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Used & reconditioned washers, ranges, dryers, refrigerators & freezers.

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Drop off merchandise SatThurs Daily 10-5. Pick-up available. Someone here at all times. For more details call David (574)522-1020 or Trish (574) 206-6296 #AU01042788

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Kids' clothing: newborn to teen, Baby gear & furniture, Maternitywear

Accepting only winter outwear Nov. - Jan. Call for appointment.

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

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Instruction & 309 Training NILES COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Taking School of Choice applications thru Jan 17, 2014 for winter semester.

College & career readiness programs on/off campus.

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FOR SALE

house plus apartment in Sumnerville. 3 bed, 2 bath house. 1 bed, 1 bath apt., apartment is above large detached garage, big yard, all appliances included, apt. has excellent renter, that could be a big part of your mortgage payment (269)684-0899

3 Bedrooms plus Sunroom Formal Dining and Living Rooms Chef's Delight Kitchen Call or Text Chris Moore (269)362-5665 Freedom Realty (269)687-8484

selection of artwork, lamps & more Whims & Wishes 51625 SR 933, South Bend (574) 277-2131

3 Bed, 2 bath homes ready to be moved into. Lease Options at starting at $621.00 per month (includes lot rent, insurance, water, trash) Call 269-4237024 or visit www.phelpscommunity.com to view pictures

Household Mer642 chandise BILL'S USED APPLIANCES

Washers & Dryers, Stoves, Refrigerators and More. Inventory Always Changing.

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Merchandise for 643 Sale YOUR E-CIG EXPERTS

Vaporizers & e-hookah Over 50 liquid flavors.

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Bargain Buys 668 USED BOOKS FOR SALE

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

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Cash paid for small & medium size refrigerators working or not,

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

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

Home Improve700 ment FRYMAN’S ROOFING FRYMAN'S SEAMLESS GUTTERS & SIDING

Your home exterior experts.

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

HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING

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

JDS HOME IMPROVEMENT

Repairs, Replacement, New Small Jobs welcome.

Licensed/Insured. Call John (269)445-7005

MK CONSTRUCTION

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

Contact Michael N. Knepple (269)476-9777

Page 10 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

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

Jan 9. – Feb. 27

i

Winter Yoga at Fernwood.

Thursdays with Greta Hurst. Walk-ins are welcome. $10 (Members $8).

Fernwood Botanical Garden, 13988 Range Line Dec. 6 - Feb. 2 Rd., Niles, MI 49120. For

more info, visit www.fernwoodbotanical.org or call South Bend Museum of Art (269) 695-6491.12:15 to S t u d e n t - F a c u l t y 1:30 p.m.

Exhibition. View the artwork 100 local artists— Jan. 10 students and teachers—of all ages who have created art in our studios during the Dowagiac Conservation​ past 12 months. Jerome J. Club. All you can eat fish Crowley Community fry. Open to the public.

Gallery. SBMA, Century $9.00 for adults and carry Center, 120 South Saint outs, $4.50 for kids 12 and Joseph Street. Open under. Fish, mashed potaWednesday through toes and gravy, mac and Sunday, 12-5 p.m. For cheese, green beans, colemore info, visit www. slaw and dessert. For carry southbendart.org or call outs, call (269) 782-5508.

(574) 235-9102.

4:30-7 p.m.

Dec. 15 – Jan. 20

Registration period for the Krasl Art Center’s Winter 2014 classes for adults and children. For more info or to register, visit www.krasl. org or call (269) 983-0275.

Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd. Saint Joseph, MI. Jan. 6 – Jan. 10 Registration and Photo Delivery for “Shoot” An All Photography Juried Show.

Show runs Jan. 17-Mar. 1, 2014. Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI. Entry fee: $20 for one or two photos ($15 for Berrien Artist Guild members). For more info, visit www.boxfactoryforthearts.org. 1-3 p.m.

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Jan. 11

Family Program: “The Arctic Temperature.”

Curious Kids Museum on the Bluff, 415 Lake Blvd.

St. Joseph, MI. Admission is $6 per person. Call (269) 982-8500 or visit www. curiouskidsmuseum.org for more info. 12-4 p.m.

Experience SBMA After Dark. Learn why Ansel Adams is regarded as a master in the darkroom.

Relax with friends while listening to chill tunes by DJ Chuck and sipping a drink compliments of The Indiana Whiskey Company. $10 suggested donation.

21 and over event. South Bend Museum of Art,

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WHAT'S HAPPENING? Century Center, 120 South Saint Joseph St., South Bend, IN. Call (574) 2359102 or visit http://www. southbendart.org/see/darkansel-adams for more info.

6:30-9 p.m.

“Two and Two Makes Three” (aka Rick Willey, Sean Ellsworth-Hoffman and Adam Carter). The three will team up to present a rich brew of Americana, old-time and Irish traditional tunes, with a dash of originality. Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI. Ticket prices are $10 general admission; $8 students and seniors; children 12 and under are free. For more info, visit www.boxfactoryforthearts.org. 7:30 p.m.

$30,000 Big Game Giveaway. W Club members can win one of 30, $1,000 Best Buy gift cards.

Starting at 1 p.m., three winners will be chosen at the top of every hour through 10 p.m. Eastern. W Club members must be present at Four Winds New Buffalo, Four Winds Hartford, or Four Winds Dowagiac to be eligible to Jan. 12 win. More information is available at the W Club inside each casino location.

Knitted Critters. Knitting

instructor, Nan Crofoot, will teach the techniques Studio Open House, Krasl for knitting playful critters Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd. in two Sunday sessions.

Saint Joseph, MI. The pub- Experienced young knitters lic is welcome to come by also are welcome. Supply for a glimpse of the cre- list provided. $50 (Members ative activities that students $40) Register by Jan. 7.

Botanical enjoy. Stop by for refresh- Fernwood ments and to try your hand Garden, 13988 Range Line at something new with Rd., Niles, MI 49120. For your children, family and more info, visit www.fernfriends. You will have an woodbotanical.org or call opportunity to register for (269) 695-6491. 2-5 p.m. winter classes with a one day only 10% discount. For more info, visit www.krasl. Opening Reception: org or call (269) 983-0275. Brandywine, Niles, and 2-4 p.m.

Buchanan High School

Exhibition. Awards will be given in several categories Registration and Photo and age groups. Fernwood Delivery for “Shoot” An All Botanical Garden, 13988 Photography Juried Show. Range Line Rd., Niles, MI Show runs Jan. 17-Mar. 1, 49120. For more info, visit 2014. Box Factory for the www.fernwoodbotanical.

Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. org or call (269) 695-6491.

Joseph, MI. Entry fee: $20 1 to 3 p.m. for one or two photos ($15 for Berrien Artist Guild members). For more info, Buchanan Art Center, 117 visit www.boxfactoryforth- West Front St., Buchanan, earts.org. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. MI. A public reception will

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be held featuring three new exhibits by local artists, The St. Joe Valley Watercolor Society, Gary R. Bennett and Sandra A. Pethick.

These exhibits will run from Jan. 8 to Feb. 22, 2014. Visit www.buchananartcenter.org or call 269697-4005 for more info.

Reception is from 2-4 p.m.

Jan. 17 The Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce presents its 1st Annual Ice Ball during the Hunter Ice Festival at the Bell Building, 305 N. 3rd Street, Niles, MI. This Black Tie (optional) event features a silent auction fundraiser to support community non-profits and charities. Red carpet, paparazzi, music, dancing, drinks, food and fun. Tickets are $40 single $70 couple and available at www.nilesmi.com/ice-ball.html or (269) 683-3720. 7 p.m.

“Shoot” An All Photography Juried Show.

Opening reception and awards ceremony. Free and open to the public. Show runs Jan. 17-Mar. 1, 2014.

Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI. For more info, visit www.boxfactoryforthearts. org. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

1-year anniversary party at Players Bar & Grille. Free buffet at 5 p.m., drink specials all night, DJ and dancing from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

221 Main St., St. Joseph, MI. Visit www.playersstjoe.com or call (269) 9824000 for more info.

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Autos for Sale 945 2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA LT

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Jan. 17-19

10th Annual Hunter Ice Festival, Downtown Niles, MI. Celebrate the legacy of The Hunter Brothers Ice & Ice Cream Company as World Class Masters transform more than 27 tons of ice into art. Events and activities include Texas Ice Fights, the Frigid 5k Run, a LEGEND

Alcohol

Art

Business

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Community

Focus

Crafts

Music

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Nature

Theatre

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Parting Shots

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history of ice carving exhibit, a warming center, a kids’ craft area, an interactive family fun ice park, a chillin’ ice bar, and a Sunday chili crawl. Call (269) 687-4332 or visit http://uncoverniles.com/ festivals-events/hunter-icefestival for more info.

Jan. 18 Discover Winter Nights. $2 admission per person for cross-country skiing, sledding, refreshments, and other activities. A small parking fee is also charged.

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, 15122 Monkey Run St.,Vandalia, MI. Call (269) 445-4456 or visit www.casscountymi.org/ C o u n t y P a r k s / DrTKLawlessPark.aspx for more info. 5 to 9 p.m.

5th Annual Winter Delights Festival. 23 Michigan wineries and several oocal restaurants and business will be on hand to provide samples.

Bryan Lubeck will perform.

Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door. Grand Upton Hall, Mendel Center, LMC, 2755 E. Napier Ave., Benton Township, MI. Visit www.winterdelightsfestival. com or call (269) 927-1221 for tickets and more info.

5-9 p.m.

Annual Book and Bake Sale. Wesley United Methodist Church, 302 Cedar Street, Niles, MI. All books 50 cents. Warm beverages while you browse. 9 a.m.- 2:30 p.m.

The Niles Service League’s annual pancake breakfast during the Hunter Ice Festival. Bell Building, 305 N. 3rd St., Downtown Niles, MI. Proceeds will be used to support the basic needs of children in our community. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time for $5.00 or you can pay at the door. We will also be raffling off a 23” TV at $5.00 per ticket. Visit us on Facebook for more information. 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Chikaming Open Lands Winter Fun Outing. Crosscountry ski, snowshoe, or hiking outing and potluck at Love Creek Nature Center, 9292 Huckleberry Road, Berrien Springs, MI. For more info or to RSVP

i

(before 1/17), call (269) 469-2330 or email jdrackley@chikamingopenlands. org. Ski rental: $10. Trail passes: $4 per person. Park entry fee: $3 per vehicle for Berrien Co. residents, $5 per for non-residents. Meet at 11:00 a.m. Return for Potluck lunch 12:30-1:30 p.m. Bring a dish to share.

Week of January 10-16, 2014 • Page 11

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

for four weeks on the trails of Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park in Osceola, IN. Warm up following the walk with coffee and a light snack. Instructions, snowshoes and poles will be provided. In the event of no snow, enjoy a winter walk in the woods. $12/ person for all 4 sessions Register by Jan. 15th by calling (574) 654-3155.

Mark Dvorak. Box Factory Program Dates are Jan. 21, for the Arts, 1101 Broad 28, and Feb. 4, 11. 10:30 St., St. Joseph, MI. Ticket a.m.-12 p.m. prices are $10 general Jan. 22 admission; $8 students and seniors; children 12 and under are free. For more info, visit www.boxfacto- Placement auditions for ryforthearts.org. 7:30 p.m. Intermediate Dance classes with the Berrien County Dancers will be held from Ornamental and Edible: A 3:15-4:45 p.m. Contact Garden Design Workshop. Theresa Graziano, Artistic Let us help you transform Director, at (269) 428your landscape into an edi- 1402, Ext. 2099 or grable, eco-friendly, and down- zianodance@gmail.com. right delightful experience. Please include the student’s For gardeners of all skill name, phone number, and levels. All necessary materi- experience level in phone als provided. $30 (Members messages and e-mails. $24) Fernwood Botanical Jan. 23 Garden, 13988 Range Line Rd., Niles, MI 49120. For more info, visit www.fernwoodbotanical.org or call Placement auditions for (269) 695-6491. Register by Advanced Dance classes Jan. 17. 1-4:30 p.m. with the Berrien County Dancers will be held from Jan. 19 3:15-4:45 p.m. Contact Theresa Graziano, Artistic Director, at (269) 428Knitted Critters. Knitting 1402, Ext. 2099 or grainstructor, Nan Crofoot, zianodance@gmail.com. will teach the techniques Please include the student’s for knitting playful critters name, phone number, and in two Sunday sessions. experience level in phone Experienced young knitters messages and e-mails. also are welcome. Supply Jan 24-25 list provided. $50 (Members $40) Register by Jan. 7.

Fernwood Botanical Garden, 13988 Range Line 3rd Annual Thrill on the Rd., Niles, MI 49120. For Hill, downtown Buchanan, more info, visit www.fern- MI. Family tubing runs woodbotanical.org or call from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on (269) 695-6491. 2-5 p.m.

1/24. Adult tubing from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. More family Jan. 20 tubing from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on 1/25. Little Thrill includes a play area for the Jumpstart your Creative kids and the Burrr Cave.

Engines at South Bend There will also be DJ Ron Museum of Art. Art Classes Cornelius, dancing, warming stations, a snowman start the week of Jan. 20. and more.

Our 8-session classes for contest adults and kids. Classes are Wristbands cost $3 for the offered in a variety of regular Friday and Saturday media from painting and sledding sessions (each) drawing, to weaving, jew- and $5 for the Midnight elry and ceramics. SBMA, Run event. Call (269) 695Century Center, 120 S. 3844 or visit www.buchanSaint Joseph St., South an.mi.us for more info.

Bend, IN. Call (574) 235Jan. 25 9102 or visit www.southbendart.org/education for more info.

Discover Winter Nights.

Jan. 21 Movie Night. $2 admission per person for cross-country skiing, sledding, Snowshoeing for seniors refreshments, and other (age 50+) Every Tuesday activities. A small parking

fee is also charged. Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, 15122 Monkey Run St.,Vandalia, MI. Call (269) 445-4456 or visit www.casscountymi. org/CountyParks/ DrTKLawlessPark.aspx for more info. 5 to 9 p.m.

Curious Coyotes: Winter Exploration. Children ages 6-10 learn about all that makes winter special: snow, animal tracking, active birds at the feeders, and more. Dress for walking the trails. $10 (Members $8). Fernwood Botanical Garden, 13988 Range Line Rd., Niles, MI 49120. For more info, visit www.fernwoodbotanical.org or call (269) 695-6491. 2-4 p.m.

Berrien County Dancers will offer a variety of 45-minute dance and fitness classes for adults and children, ages 5 and up, at their Dance Marathon.

Lakeshore High School, 5771 Cleveland Ave. in Stevensville. No prior experience is required. The cost is $5 per class or $20 per person for unlimited classes. For more info, visit w w w. B e r r i e n C o u n t y Dancers.com or call (269) 428-1402, Ext. 2099. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Kids on Stage Glee Club.

Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph, MI. Ticket prices are $10 general admission; $8 students and seniors; children 12 and under are free. For more info, visit www.boxfactoryforthearts.org. 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 26 8th Annual No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament (License #M84803) to benefit the Soup Kitchen of Benton Harbor. 5 O’clock Sports Bar, Stevensville, MI. $60.00 Entry.

Maximum 200 players.

Must be 18 years or older to play. Cash bar/menu available. Cash games available 1-7 p.m. For more information or to register, contact Ken Clark at (269) 313-3912 or clarkk58@yahoo.com.

Check-in/registration begins at 12:30 p.m.

Tournament starts at 2 p.m.

“Elvis Lives,” The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Event.

The Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend, IN. 3 p.m.

St., St. Joseph, MI. Call (269) 983-1166 for more Opening of the new info. Doors open at 8 p.m., Curious Kids’ Discovery show time is 10 p.m.

Zone exhibit, “Backyard Monsters—The World of Insects!” Hours: Thursdays An Evening with the Artist, 4-8:30 p.m. with admission John Lidecker. “Viewing of of just $3. Regular admis- artwork by the world’s sion cost on Friday and most infamous artist.”

Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Riverfront Café, 219 N. and 12-5 p.m. on Sunday. Front St., Niles, MI. Free Call (269) 982-8500 or and open to the public. Call visit www.curiouskids- (269) 684-2233 for more museum.org for more info. info. 7-10 p.m.

Jan. 31-Feb. 23

Feb. 7-9

Twin City Players presents “Deathtrap.” Tickets are $15 adults, $12 seniors and $7 children (12 and under).

Group rates are available.

Call (269) 429-0400 or visit twincityplayers.org for tickets. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 p.m. on Sundays. 600 W. Glenlord Rd., St. Joseph, MI. Opening Night Afterglow Reception: join cast and crew after the show for refreshments provided by Lemon Creek Winery and Panera Bread.

Magical Ice Fest.

Downtown St. Joseph. Ice carving competitions and SnowBiz Scavenger Hunt.

For info, call (269) 9851111 or visit www.stjoetoday.com.

Jan. 31 Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra presents Dueling Pianos. 5:30 p.m.: buffet dinner (optional and must be purchased in advance). 6:30 p.m.: cocktails/cash bar. 7:30 p.m.: Dueling pianos. Buffet and show: $45; show only: $30.

Vineland Center, 1155 Vineland Rd., St. Joseph, MI. For tickets and more info, call (269) 982-4030 or visit www.smso.org.

FOOD COMMUNITY —2nd Annual Chili Tour.

Downtown St. Joseph. For info, call (269) 985-1111 or visit www.stjoetoday.com.

5-8 p.m.

Feb. 7

Zion Lion. “Bob Marley Birthday Bash Tour” for Jamaica Me Crazy. Live reggae at Czar’s 505 every first Friday of the month.

505 Pleasant St., St. Joseph, MI. Call (269) 983-1166 for more info. Doors open at 8 p.m., show time is 10 p.m.

“Men Are From Mars – Women Are From Venus LIVE!” Starring Peter Story. Bendix Theater, Century Center, South Bend, IN. Tickets at www.

MorrisCenter.org, (574) 235-9190 or (800) 5376415. 8:00 p.m.

Feb. 8

Discover Winter Nights.

Valentine’s Day Craft Night. $2 admission per person for cross-country skiing, sledding, refreshments, and other activities. A small parking fee is also charged.

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, Feb. 1 15122 Monkey Run St.,Vandalia, MI. Call (269) 445-4456 or visit www.cassDiscover Winter Nights. $2 countymi.org/CountyParks/ admission per person for DrTKLawlessPark.aspx for cross-country skiing, sled- more info. 5 to 9 p.m. ding, refreshments, and other activities. A small Feb. 14 parking fee is also charged. $50,000 Valentine’s Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, Getaways.

Celebrate 15122 Monkey Run Valentine’s Day at Four St.,Vandalia, MI. Call Winds Casinos by winning (269) 445-4456 or visit a dream vacation to a destiwww.casscountymi.org/ nation of your choice! W C o u n t y P a r k s / Club members can win one DrTKLawlessPark.aspx of ten, $5,000 travel vouchfor more info. 5 to 9 p.m. ers. W Club members must

be present at Four Winds New Buffalo, Hartford, or Kari Lynch Band. “Country Dowagiac to be eligible to Night” every first Saturday win. More information is of the month. (18+) at available at the W Club Czar’s 505, 505 Pleasant inside each casino location.

Page 12 • Week of January 10-16, 2014

Off The Water, Michiana

PARTING SHOTS

Photos submitted by Emily Sossoman of Niles

Silver Beach in St. Joseph, Mich. on New Year's Eve 2013.

Submit Your Shots!

Send your photos to offthewater@leaderpub.com and they may be published in a future issue.