BOOM Magazine December 2014

December 2014

Hot Holiday Gifts

for

Your Furry Friends

12

Day Trips of

Christmas

On the First Day of Christmas my True Love Gave to Me ‌

A Beer

(in a tree)

SOUTHOLD DANCE THEATER PRESENTS

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Erica Fischbach

Saturday, December 13th at 2:00pm & 7:00pm Sunday, December 14th at 2:00pm FOR TICKETS CALL (574) 235-9190 OR VISIT WWW.MORRISCENTER.ORG Sponsored by

“Christmas doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more....” ~ Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

boom / What's inside EVERY MONTH

boom TRAVELER

4

6 Things We Learned Making This Issue

12

12 Day Trips of Christmas

5

Contributors & Testimonials

6

BOOM Timeline

14

Fall in Love with Alaska

boom HEART-HEALTHY RECIPE 28

Peppermint Meringues

boom BOOK REVIEW 29 Alias Hook by Lisa Jensen

Reviewed By: Katie Steele

boom PETS 10 Hot Holiday Gifts for your Furry Friends

By: Phyllis Rose By: Phyllis Rose

18 Travel Agent VS Booking Agent

By: Phyllis Rose

boom HOBBIES 16 It’s a Wonderful Lie

By: Margo & Jim Bell

22 On the First Day of Christmas my True Love Gave to Me…A Beer (in a Tree)

By: Chuck Bergman

By: Jillian Koeneman

boom HOME

29

Loving Animals Looking For Their Forever Home

24

boom HEALTHY LIVING 8

30 Days to Better Sleep By: A. Majid Malik, M.D.

Decking the Halls By: Pam Gunterman

26 A Tale of TWO Mansions:

Copshaholm and Ruthmere

By: Evie Kirkwood

THE PLANNER 30

Boom Events to Put in Your Planner

boom

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Letter from the publisher

Things We Learned Making the December Issue

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Betsy Tavernier Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Managing Editor:

Jessica Haviland Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

AD COORDINATOR & INSIDE SALES MANAGER

Amanda Oiler Amanda@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Photography: Classic Image photography Makeup: CamellIa Cosmetics, Granger

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager:

Betsy Tavernier Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Zuzanna Zmud Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

MEDICAL EDITOR: Dr. Jesse Hsieh

1. Don’t forget your furry babies this Christmas!

Try these fun gift ideas this Christmas on page 10.

Distribution Managers: Mike Trentacosti Kevin Reynolds

BOOM Magazine is a division of Michiana Family Magazines, LLC established in 2006. All rights reserved.

We would love to hear from you!

Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

2. Put Alaska on your bucket list.

Read how our travel expert fell in love with Alaska on page 14.

The FAMILY Magazines P.O. BOX 577 Granger, IN 46530 PH: 574.387.5420 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.MichianaMom.com Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication.

Read BOOM Magazine online each month!

Go to www.MichianaMom.com and flip the pages, cover-to-cover the organic and green way!

your now k u yo vie ie 3. Do tmas mo e our mov ee s s k i Chr ers? Ta ge 16 to a p a d o p a o m e on bl quiz ay movie a i v i r t holid which ke! mista

Copshaholm Mansion Photo by Peter Ringenberg

December 2014 Volume 3: Number 12

4. Peppermint Meringues are this years must have cookies!

Get the recipe on page 28.

5. Visit the Copshaholm and Ruthmere mansions this holiday season! Learn more about these historical landmarks on page 26.

6. Simplify your Christmas decorations this year.

Embrace the Christmas spirit with less clean-up on page 24.

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DECEMBER 2014 | boom

LOOK WHO’s TALKING

follow us on Twitter, and become our fan on Facebook. @MichianaBoom www.facebook.com/pages/BOOM-Magazine/ www.pinterest.com/boommagazine/ MichianaBoom

december / contributors

boom / testimonials

Margo Bell Margo Bell, a first-wave Boomer, has a B.S. degree in Biology from Arkansas State University and worked in medical and marine biology research before making a mid-life career change to writing for adults and children. Margo is a former magazine editor and has published over 50 articles and features in newspapers and magazines. She and her husband Jim live in South Bend and have two grandchildren.

Photo Credit: Classic Image Photography

Phyllis Rose With a love for the English language and travel, Phyllis Rose became an English teacher, freelance writer and traveler. She taught high school English for 29 years while also working as a freelance writer and editor. Retiring from teaching, she turned her part-time writing career into full-time, writing for newspapers and magazines. Phyllis loves international travel, especially to Europe. When not writing or traveling, she loves to read, do counted cross-stitch projects and plan her next travel adventure.

“I love BOOM Magazine! I can’t wait to pick up the newest issue each month!”

– Kay M.

“I recommend trying the recipes in BOOM Magazine. I have tried three of them so far and each one has turned out spectacular!”

– Lily R.

“The content and quality of BOOM Magazine is fantastic! I share this magazine with all my friends and family.”

– Ruby S.

Evelyn Kirkwood Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph County Parks in Indiana and the host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcast Sundays at 9 AM and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM on WNIT Public Television.

Chuck Bergman Chuck Bergman is a local Michiana marketing professional and an avid home brewer. He fell in love with craft beer a few years ago and has never looked at beer the same way. He encourages everyone to support local breweries, home brew stores and be willing to ‘experience new tastes.’

VIP December

advertisers

Special THANKS to the following VIP December advertisers that helped us provide Boom Magazine to the Michiana community for Free: Afdent Dental Beacon Health Systems

Hubbard Hill Retirement Community

Center for Hospice Care

Menno Travel

Ginger Valley

MutualBank OSMC

DECEMBER Events M

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Southold Dance Theater Presents The Nutcracker Ballet, 2:00 P.M.. The Morris Performing Arts Center

The Beach Boys, 7:30 P.M., The Lerner Theatre

Jay Armstrong, 8:00 P.M., The Drop Comedy Club

Celtic Woman- Home for Christmas, The Symphony Tour, 7:00 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center

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Merry Christmas from BOOM Magazine!

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Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookies www.sallysbakingaddiction.com

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What We Are Pinning:

Happy Hanukkah!

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Christmas at Copshaholm: The World of War 12:15 P.M., Center for History, South Bend

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5. Electronics: Have they always talked about wanting a new iPad? What about a new Blu-Ray Player? Replace their electronics and see the smile on their faces when they open the gift!

A Lerner Christmas, 7:30 P.M., The Lerner Theatre

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4. Sports Equipment: Do they enjoy playing tennis together? Golfing? Skiing? Find out what physical activity they enjoy doing together and help upgrade their equipment by buying them either a new tennis racquet, golf club or skis.

Southold Dance Theater Presents The Nutcracker Ballet, 2:00 P.M.. The Morris Performing Arts Center

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3. Restaurant Gift Card: Stop by their favorite restaurant they rarely go to because it’s “too expensive.”

Buy them a gift card from there so they are able to enjoy a fabulous date night!

Glory and Majesty of Christmas-Presented by The Webbs, 7:00 P.M., Blue Gate Theater, Shipshewana

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2. Spa Package: Give the gift of relaxation and treat your kids and their spouses to a day at the spa!

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DTSB First Fridays, Goshen First 5:00 P.M., Downtown Fridays, 5:00 P.M., South Bend Downtown Goshen It’s A Wonderful Life At A Winterlude: Café Noel-A Rosie Place, Celebration in Song, 10:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. 7:30 P.M., Elkhart Civic Theatre MythBusters: Behind the Myths Tour, 7:00 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center Pearl Harbor day

Mo Tu

Steppin’ Out, 7:00 P.M., Acorn Theater

The grandkids are easy to shop for during Christmas but finding that perfect gift for your own kids and their spouses can be rather difficult! Below are five gift ideas that each one of them will love!

1. Theater Tickets: Purchase theater tickets to a Broadway or concert show that your kids have always wanted to see!

DECEMBER 2014 | boom

Peppermint Bark Cups

www.farmgirlgourmet.com

Krispy Treat Christmas Trees

www.raininghotcoupons.com

Winter WONDERLAND! Mr. Sno E. Mann

Winter is a great time to enjoy your backyard birds! Mr. Sno E. Mann is made mostly of peanut hearts & Nyjer seed & comes with a built-in hanger. Your feathered friends will love it!

Ginger Valley Garden Center, Granger – $13.99 www.gingervalley.com

www.goodwill-ni.org

“I was arrested more times than I can remember. I lost my freedom, my family… I almost lost my life. But mom never gave up on me. Not many stories like mine have happy endings. My future began when Goodwill helped me find a job. That’s how your donation to Goodwill changes lives.”

Janie

30 Days boom

health

If you’re tired of being tired, then

this plan is for you!

By: A. Majid Malik, M.D.

People who are chronically sleep deprived may see an impact on their metabolism and hormones. In fact, poor sleep habits have been connected with slowed glucose processing and weight gain. While not a guarantee of disease, lack of sleep does put you at higher risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It also increases your risk for accidents and makes it hard to concentrate on work and other tasks.

If you’re tired of feeling tired, our 30-day plan is just what the doctor ordered.

Take the time to examine your habits, reset your internal clock and get the sleep you need.

1. Analyze your habits. Start your one-month journey to better sleep by taking a close look at your current habits.

What time do you go to sleep and wake up? How long does it take you to fall asleep?

2. Determine your obstacles. What’s preventing you from getting the sleep you need?

3. Establish sleep as a priority. You can’t continue to cheat your sleep without consequences—be they psychological or physiological. Make sure you’re ready to make the necessary changes.

4. Set a sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at

the same times every day improves the quality of your sleep.

5. Create a bedtime routine. An hour before bedtime,

begin your routine. Start by turning off the TV and computer.

6. Remove electronics from the bedroom. Bedrooms

are for sleep. Don’t have a TV or a computer in your bedroom.

7. Lower the thermostat. The ideal temperature for sleep

is 68 to 74 degrees. If you can’t adjust the thermostat that low, consider a fan.

8. Eat dinner earlier. When you eat dinner too late, your body might not be done digesting the food before bed, which can keep you awake.

9. Quit smoking. Nicotine, a stimulant, can disrupt sleep.

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DECEMBER 2014 | boom

10. Skip the late-night snack. Avoid eating two hours

before bed (especially sugary foods) because a spike in blood sugar can affect sleep.

11. Know when to give up. Don’t spend hours in bed trying to fall asleep. Get out of bed, and go do something else like reading a book or doing a puzzle until you’re tired.

12. Pull the shades. The darker your room, the better for sleep.

13. Do a sound check. If noises outside your room are keeping you up, consider purchasing an ambient noise machine.

14. Pass on the nightcap. Alcoholic beverages might make you sleepy, but alcohol interferes with deep, restful sleep.

15. Check in. You’re halfway through the plan, and you’ve already made a number of changes! This is a good time to see how you’re feeling.

16. Hit the gym. Regular exercise—ideally 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week—helps improve sleep.

17. But not too close to bedtime. A workout boosts energy and may make it hard to go to sleep.

18. Kick the caffeine. To optimize your sleep, avoid caffeine in the evenings. To be on the safe side, consider avoiding caffeine after noon.

19. Get comfortable. That might mean investing in a new mattress, better pillows or softer bedding.

20. Check in. Are you sleeping at least seven hours a night? Are you waking up rested?

LUXURY VILLAS FROM AMERICAN EXPRESS VACATIONS

21. Just say no. If you find you still aren’t getting enough sleep, it might be time to say no to optional responsibilities at work and at home.

22. Simplify. Clearing physical clutter can be a good way to ease mental clutter and help you relax.

23. Nab a nap. Power naps under 20 minutes can be wonderful.

24. Turn off all electronics. Stop watching TV, using your computer and playing on your phone for as long as possible before bed.

25. Go easy on fluids. Stay

hydrated, of course, but try to limit how much water you drink before bed.

26. Kick Fido out. Your dog might

be snuggly, but that doesn’t mean it’s helping you rest.

27. Stress less. Stress is a known

obstacle to good sleep. Find a coping mechanism that works for you, such as yoga, deep breathing exercises or meditation.

28. Get enough daylight. While it’s

important to avoid lights at night, it’s also important to get some sunlight during the day to help regulate your body’s melatonin and sleep-wake cycle.

29. Enjoy your downtime. At some point during the day, try to take a 15- to 30-minute break to listen to music, meditate or simply enjoy some quiet time.

30. Final check.

Have you made progress to more and better sleep?

If you’ve tried our tips for better sleep and are still tired during the day (or struggle to fall asleep at night), talk to your doctor. You don’t have to put up with sleep problems. For the vast majority of people, there are answers for sleep problems. •••

Luxury Villas by American Express Vacations includes a collection of over 1,000 villa rental properties in the Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe and Mexico and is backed by American Express Vacations’ history of excellence.

The Luxury Villas product includes: Complete packages available including choice of First Class, Business Class or Coach air Villa Concierge services to handle personal vacationer requests More than 1,000 villa rental properties OUR DESTINATIONS INCLUDE: St. Martin • St. Barts • Anguilla • Barbados Saint Lucia • Jamaica • Bahamas U.S. Virgin Islands • British Virgin Islands Turks & Caicos Islands • Hawaii’s Big Island Oahu • Maui • Puerto Vallarta • Riviera Maya Los Cabos Tuscany • The South of France Costa Rica Greece • Ireland • Spain

Book your next special occasion with family and friends by calling

Menno Travel (574) 534-1521 or (800) 635-0963!

Luxury Villas by American Express Vacations is operated by Travel Impressions, Ltd. Details are accurate at time of printing and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. All products and services offered and rendered by American Express Vacations are provided solely by Travel Impressions, Ltd. and its agents.

Travel Impressions, Ltd. is not affiliated with American Express Company. For the avoidance of doubt, none of such products or services are offered or rendered by American Express Company of its subsidiaries or affiliates.

American Express Vacation materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of American Express Vacations. CST #2029006-20, IOWA #758, NEVADA #2004-0029, Washington UBI #602 425 801. BB005-14_df_3.24.14 boom | DECEMBER 2014

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PETS

Hot

Holiday Gifts for Your Furry Friends By: Jillian Koeneman

The Holiday Season is here and it’s time to treat all of the special dogs and cats on your list to something nice!

Your pet will be wagging his tail and meow’ing with excitement when they unwrap these lovely gifts.

Fruitables Vanilla Snowflake Flavor Treats – Limited Edition Give Rover something as unique as he is this holiday with the only treat made with real snowflakes! Each limited edition Fruitables Vanilla Snowflake pouch includes 300 snowflakes sustainably harvested from the mountains near Crested Butte, Colorado, that is combined into a delightful pumpkin granola and yogurt recipe. With only nine calories per treat, Fruitables Vanilla Snowflake treats join an extensive family of dog products in a broad range of flavors and textures. $4.99 – $5.99, www.FruitablesPetFood.com Photo: www.FruitablesPetFood.com

Imperial Cat Happy Cat + Happy Kitten Holiday Kits Cats that enjoy scratching, relaxing and playing won’t tire of the Happy Cat and Happy Kitten kits. Each gift set includes an arsenal of feline favorites, including a holiday themed, eco-friendly scratcher, plus a toy, a wand, certified organic catnip and organic oat grass. And just like all Imperial Cat products, these all-in-one kits encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. $19.95 – $34.95, www.ImperialCat.com Photo: www.ImperialCat.com

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DECEMBER 2014 | boom

Gold Paw Series Portland Pullover The Portland Pullover gives rain, snow and mud the brush-off with its patented BionicEco outer shell that repels water and dirt and comes in bright, beautiful colors. The light, fleecy soft inside keeps Rover comfortably warm and cozy. Best yet, sizes range to accommodate Chihuahuas and German Shepherds alike. $30.00 – $45.00, www.GoldPawSeries.com Photo: www.GoldPawSeries.com

Fluff & Tuff Holiday Bear Fluff &Tuff dog toys feature realistic, adorable designs, but don't let the exterior fool you! Each toy is constructed of top quality materials including an inner tear-resistant mesh lining and double stitched seams, ensuring that these plush toys can stand up to aggressive play.

While no dog toys are indestructible, Fluff & Tuff toys are designed to be as durable as they are cute. $19.95, www.fluffandtuff.com Photo: www.fluffandtuff.com

Andis Deshedding Tool The Andis Deshedding tool reduces shedding up to 90 percent. The tool helps brush out your dog’s undercoat grooming tool, while maintaining a damage-free topcoat and protecting the skin. The Andis Deshedding tool is ideal for dogs of all sizes. $34.25, www.andis.com Photo: www.andis.com

Campus Dog by Planet Dog Campus Dog’s toys are all made in the USA, doggie-durable, buoyant, minty, eco-friendly, nontoxic and 100% guaranteed. The University of Notre Dame is the first school to partner with Planet Dog! $10.99 - $19.99, www.planetdog.com Photo: www.planetdog.com

Company of Animals Green Slow Dog Feeder GREEN is a revolutionary way to turn a dog's meal into a challenging time-consuming game. Slowing down eating helps reduce the risk of bloat and the unpleasant aftereffects of eating too fast, resulting in a happier and healthier dog.

Designed like a tuft of grass but looking like a contemporary piece of art, simply scatter the desired amount of food across the GREEN. Can be used for dry and wet food, simply wash /dishwasher after use.

There are 2 sizes available. $30.00, www.companyofanimals.us Photo: www.companyofanimals.us

Biscuit Bob’s Gourmet Treats Apple Crisp Biscuit Bob’s Gourmet Dog Treats give pet owners the freedom and confidence to know they can reward or train their dogs without sacrificing long-term health. Made with real Apples, Cinnamon, and Vanilla, pets LOVE the taste of the Apple Crisp biscuits. Biscuit Bob’s is committed to creating tasty treats that pets will love, and pet owners will love to give. $6.99, www.biscuitbob.com Photo: www.biscuitbob.com

boom | DECEMBER 2014

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boom

traveler

Christkindlmarket in Chicago, IL

12 Day Trips of Christmas

Article & Photos By: Phyllis Rose

If the holiday hustle has turned jingle bells and silent nights into jangled nerves and discordant days, it’s time for a day away. And what could be better than 12 Day Trips of Christmas.

Over a decade of day tripping, Best-Ever Friend Dave and I have discovered many special places to leave the bustle behind and savor the season.

1)

On the first day trip of Christmas, give yourself a taste of Europe’s Christmas markets at Chicago’s Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza through December 24. Modeled after Nuremberg’s Christkindlmarket, this market showcases vendors from Germany, Austria, Poland and the United States, featuring items such as glass blown ornaments, colorful ceramic cookware, and nutcrackers.

Then there’s food - stollen, a traditional German cake with candied fruits and nuts; warm, candied cashews; gingerbread; and gluhwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate served in a souvenir mug.

Chicago Christkindlmarket • 312-494-2175 www.christkindlmarket.com

4)

On the fourth day trip of Christmas, give yourself a dose of nostalgia in Hammond, Indiana, at “A Christmas Story Comes Home,” in the Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive, Hammond, Indiana, an exhibit of six animatronic window displays from New York’s Macy’s Department Store. Jean Shepherd, a Hammond native, wrote the stories forming the basis for the movie. Through January 4, 2015, you can enjoy the exhibit and special events including an ugly lamp contest and an Oh Fuuudge Relay Race.

Indiana Welcome Center • 219-989-7979 www.southshorecva.com

2)

On the second day trip of Christmas, give yourself a Christmas tree treat at Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline, in Grand Rapids. Each of the 40 decorated trees in the “Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World” exhibit (through January 4, 2015) has a placard listing holiday traditions in the featured country, such as spider webs in Ukraine and pickle ornaments in Germany.

Special events include seasonal songs performed by the Original Dickens Carolers; visits with Santa and his reindeer; and horsedrawn carriage rides.

Meijer Gardens • 1-888-957-1580 www.meijergardens.org

3)

On the third day trip of Christmas, give yourself an ornament party at the Hallmark Ornament Museum, inside The Party Shop, 3418 Lake City Highway, Warsaw, Indiana. The museum houses a complete collection of Hallmark ornaments from 1973 to the present. It’s also a cultural timeline showing what was popular each year - whether it was R2D2 from Star Wars or Miss Piggy of the Muppets.

The Party Shop • 574-267-8787 www.thepartyshop.com 12

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During the holidays, you can enjoy tea at the Governor's Mansion in Marshall, Michigan.

5)

On the fifth day trip of Christmas, give yourself a quiet day of shopping at The Village Shoppes, 129 E. Michigan, New Carlisle, Indiana. The shop, beautifully decorated for the holidays, features unique home decor items and collectibles such as Department 56, Christopher Radko ornaments, and Byers’ Choice Carolers.

While in New Carlisle, have lunch at Moser’s Austrian Cafe, 127 E. Michigan, for hearty Austrian and German food, such as wienerschnitzel, German potato salad, and strudel.

The Village Shoppes • 574-654-8833 www.thevillageshoppes.com Moser’s Austrian Cafe • 574-654-0086 www.mosersaustriancafe.com

6)

On the sixth day trip of Christmas, give yourself some “holiday magic” at Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad, 6140 Bray Road, Flint, Michigan. Through December 31, the village hosts its “Holiday Magic” event. Colorful lights adorn the village’s trees, creating a magical setting for wandering and chatting with costumed docents about Christmases past.

The homes, heated by wood stoves, are decorated with period ornaments. And just maybe, if Mrs. Elbridge is home, she’ll share her special applesauce cookies with you.

become Michigan’s capital. On Sunday, December 7, the mansion will host a tea from 1 to 5 p.m.

That same weekend, December 6 and 7, the Marshall Historical Society holds its annual Candlelight Walk, visiting several Marshall homes decorated for the season. (Note: Reservations required.)

Marshall Historical Society • 269-781-8544 www.marshallhistoricalsociety.org

10)

On the tenth day trip of Christmas, give yourself the best-ever fruit cake, at least according to Best-Ever Friend Dave, who loves fruit cakes. He gets his favorites from the Next Door Neighbor Deli Bakery, 11540 W. SR 120, Middlebury, Indiana. Deb and Gerald Lee make three different fruit cakes: traditional; tropical with macadamia nuts, coconut, and pineapple; and chocolate with walnuts, cranberries and raisins. Also, don’t overlook their delectable cookies, pies, cinnamon rolls, muffins and donuts.

To get ready for shopping in Shipshewana or Middlebury, enjoy breakfast or lunch in their homey dining area where you’ll swear you’re back in grandma’s kitchen.

Next Door Neighbor Deli Bakery • 574-825-1716 www.fruitcakesbydeb.com

Board the Huckleberry Railroad for a 30-minute trip with delightful lighted holiday displays along the tracks.

Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad • 1-800-648-7275 www.GeneseeCountyParks.org

7)

On the seventh day trip of Christmas, give yourself a Holiday with Henry at Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, in Dearborn, Michigan. “Holidays In Henry Ford Museum,” which runs through January 4, 2015, has a huge Christmas tree, a model train layout, and visits with Santa.

The Holiday Homes Tour in Greenfield Village, a self-guided tour through the village’s historic homes, takes you through 300 years of holiday traditions. Maybe someone in the Ford family home will be cooking chicken/oyster croquettes on the kitchen’s wood stove. The tours occur on weekends through December 27.

Carolers in Victorian dress stroll the streets of Holly during their annual Dickens Festival.

11)

Enjoy “Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village” on December weekends from 6:30-9:30 p.m. With candlelit windows, carolers, and sleigh bells, the evening will transport you back to Christmases past.

On the eleventh day trip of Christmas, give yourself a literary interlude at the annual Dickens Festival in Holly, Michigan. Actors portraying Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and Bob Cratchit act out scenes from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” on the town’s streets. Carolers in Victorian dress stroll around singing traditional carols a cappella.

From street vendors, you can purchase roasted chestnuts, candied nuts and huge turkey drumsticks. It’s a sure cure for “Bah Humbug.”

Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village • 313-271-1620 www.TheHenryFord.org

Dickens Festival • 248-431-1894 www.hollydickensfestival.org

8)

On the eighth day trip of Christmas, give yourself a taste of the1800s at “Of Christmas Past” in Historic Charlton Park Village, 2545 S. Charlton Park Road, Hastings, Michigan. On December 13 and 14 from noon to 5 p.m., you can string popcorn for Christmas trees, make a holiday ornament, bake cookies in a historic home, enjoy live music in the village’s church, sample freshly roasted chestnuts, and tour the village in a mule-drawn cart.

Historic Charlton Park • 269-945-3775 www.charltonpark.org

9)

On the ninth day trip of Christmas, give yourself tea time at the Governor’s Mansion Museum, 612 S. Marshall Ave., in Marshall, Michigan. This Greek Revival home was to be the governor’s mansion when town leaders thought Marshall would

12)

On the twelfth day trip of Christmas, give yourself a New Year’s celebration at Amish Acres, 1600 West Market St., in Nappanee, Indiana. The New Year’s Eve gala includes an all-youcan eat threshers dinner in the Restaurant Barn, a performance of “Shrek, the Musical,” an hors d’oeuvres buffet following the performance, a cabaret show, and midnight fireworks.

Amish Acres • 800-800-4942 www.amishacres.com

Best Ever Friends Dave and Phyllis wish you and yours the Best-Ever Day Tripping this holiday season and in the New Year. ••• boom | DECEMBER 2014

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travleler

Article & Photos By: Phyllis Rose

“You’ll love Alaska.” Everyone I knew who had been there told me that as I prepared for my first trip to the 49th state. So, I headed north to Alaska, expecting at least to like Alaska, but I fell in love with its scenery, wild animals, wilderness and its awesomeness.

My two-week trip with three girlfriends included a cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Seward, Alaska, followed by a land tour to Anchorage, Denali National Park and Fairbanks.

A cruise ship sails through Glacier Bay

We covered only a smidgen of this huge state, but little piece by little piece, Alaska seduced me. Here’s what I loved.

Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness

In Ketchikan, we boarded a catamaran for Misty Fjords. Slowly, we sailed out of the channel and into the Behm Canal where the scenery became more mountainous and misty. Our guide told us about the area, including New Eddystone Rock, a 200-foot basalt column named in 1793 by Captain George Vancouver who thought it resembled Eddystone Rock in Cornwall, England.

Sea lions lounged at the rock’s base.

In Punchbowl Cove, waterfalls streamed down steep rocky mountain faces. Mists swirled around the mountain tops and hovered over the valleys. At the Mossy Wall bird rookery, birds flew all around, their chirping a descant to the silence.

Returning to Ketchikan, we slowed down to view an ancient pictograph painted on a rock. Then our catamaran bounced around like a cork because of strong crosswinds and an incoming tide, an adventure to write home about.

Whale Watching, Mendenhall Glacier

In Juneau, a bright sunny day was perfect for whale watching. We saw lots of them - spumes shooting into the air, backs breaking the water’s surface, and then their tails flipping in the air as they dove back down.

Later, we visited the Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long glacier near Juneau, which can be seen from several outdoor viewpoints. The Visitors Center also has a panoramic viewing area with floor-to-ceiling windows. We learned more about glaciers through displays and a documentary film, “Magnificent Mendenhall.”

Misty Fjords National Monument

Yukon Territory and White Pass and Yukon Railroad

Mountains, forests, waterfalls, emerald green lakes and puppies highlighted our trip into the Yukon Territory. From Skagway, Alaska, we headed out with our motorcoach driver/ guide. At photo stops, we snapped pictures of mountain scenery, waterfalls, and the sign marking the Yukon Territory border.

We visited Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, formed when glaciers receded, leaving sand dunes behind. At our lunch stop at Caribou Crossing, we petted sled dogs and held cute, cuddly puppies.

Back in British Columbia, we boarded the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway to return to Skagway. This narrow-gauge railroad, built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, has been named an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

Riding in a vintage train car, we relished more spectacular scenery and glimpses of the Chilkoot Trail, a narrow, 33-mile trail used by prospectors during the Gold Rush.

Glacier Bay

A glorious day in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve gave us plenty of photo ops of mountains reflected in the bay’s still waters. As the boat sailed slowly past mountains and waterfalls, National Park rangers who had come onboard our ship informed us about the bay and its glaciers.

The ship stopped in front of Margerie Glacier. In the silence, we could hear the blue and white glacier moaning and groaning before a small section of it calved off into the water.

Birds perched on chunks of glacial ice dotting the water around the ship. Leaving Margerie Glacier, we sailed to the Johns Hopkins Glacier, then passed by Lamplugh and Reid Glaciers before exiting the bay and heading to Seward.

Denali National Park

After an overnight in Anchorage, we boarded the McKinley Explorer train for the eight-hour ride to Denali National Park. In Denali, we were scheduled for a 5:30 a.m. Tundra Wilderness Tour of Denali, probably the best time since the animals were out and about, too. We saw caribou, wolves, a mama grizzly and her two cubs, moose, a ptarmigan, and a hoary marmot. Our bus was equipped with a video camera and video screens so our driver/guide could focus the camera on the animals allowing us to see them up close.

Then, there was the scenery, including the highest mountain peak in North America, the 20,320 foot Mt. McKinley. Only about 30 percent of visitors actually see this mountain which is usually shrouded in clouds, but we saw enough to become members of the 30 Percent Club. I even have a sweatshirt that says so.

Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau, Alaska

Fairbanks

Arriving in Fairbanks, we enjoyed a family style lunch of miner’s stew, sourdough rolls and a brownie before boarding the Riverboat Discovery for a three-hour tour to learn about life along the Chena River. Along the way, a bush pilot demonstrated taking off and landing on the river. Later, we stopped briefly at the Susan Butcher Kennels where Dave Monson, husband of the late Susan Butcher, a four-time Iditarod winner, talked to us from the shore about sled dogs before hooking up a team to demonstrate their skills.

We disembarked at the Chena Indian Village for a walking tour of this Athabascan Indian Village where we saw salmon filets hung up to dry and a handmade $20,000 fur coat.

Pioneer Park, another top attraction in Fairbanks, is a themepark with historic homes moved to the park from other areas of Fairbanks, four museums, a restored steamwheeler, and the train car used by President Harding when he came to Alaska in 1923 to drive the golden spike completing the Alaska Railroad. There are shops and restaurants, too, including the Gold Rush Ice Cream Parlor, a great place for an afternoon break.

Well, Alaska, as the old song says, “You made me love you.

I didn’t want to do it,” but I did. Now, I have to get busy planning my next Alaska rendezvous. •••

For more information:

Polychrome Pass, another beautiful sight, is as its name says a pass of many-colors.

Travel Alaska:

Our second day in Denali, we visited the kennels where we petted sled dogs and watched the dogs pull a sled around a dirt course. The dogs were so excited to be chosen for the team, but when they were done, they plopped down to chew on their rawhide while Ranger Randy answered questions about the dogs.

www.travelalaska.com

Official State of Alaska Vacation and Travel Information This site is a complete guide to anything you need to know for planning your Alaska trip whether you want to travel on your own, take a cruise, or take a guided tour. boom | DECEMBER 2014

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IT’S A

Y

Wonderful Lie By: Margo and Jim Bell

ou’ve replaced the broken glass pickle ornament that’s been in your family for three generations. You’ve sprayed smelly repellent on the indoor tree to keep the cat from climbing up the trunk. Now you’re ready to relax with some holiday movies. But their bloopers tangle your mind like a mess of garland. Try to spot these—we hope “Yule” enjoy them!

(In case you haven’t seen all of these movies, we’ve included a brief synopsis.)

A Christmas Story (1983): In this shown-time-and-again Hoosier classic set around 1940, young Ralphie Parker longs for a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas but faces opposition from Mom, teacher, and Santa himself. (“You’ll shoot your eye out!’)

4. Which of the following is not a blooper?

1. Which of the following are bloopers?

c. Aunt Bethany’s coat is removed twice in the same shot.

a. A student in Ralphie’s classroom wears a Dukes of Hazard wristwatch.

d. Although the inside of the Griswold house is lit up, the SWAT team breaks into their darkened house.

b. Ralphie’s brother Randy has a face full of mashed potatoes but his face is completely clean in the next shot when the doorbell rings. c. There’s no cord on the leg lamp when it comes out of the packing crate but appears when Dad plugs the lamp in. d. When the lamp breaks you hear glass crashing, but the lamp is made of plastic. e. Presents are wrapped in foil-covered paper that didn’t appear until years later. f. All of the above.

2. Which of the following is not a blooper? a. There are no doors, only open space, under the kitchen sink.

Later there are doors. b. The message on the schoolroom blackboard changes in the next shot. c. The teeth braces on the bully are gone in one brief scene. d. Mom has a jar of pickles on the table by the turkey, then in the next scene she comes up from the basement with the same jar.

a. Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is on TV weeks after Thanksgiving. b. A full moon appears twice, once in mid-December, the second time on Christmas Eve.

e. None of the above—they’re all mistakes.

Home Alone (1990): Due to a miscount, 14 of the 15 members of the McCallister clan fly to Paris for Christmas, accidentally leaving young Kevin at home to use his own devices to protect the house from two bumbling but determined cat burglars, Harry and Marv.

5. Spot the three bloopers: a. The out-of-order phones won’t be repaired for two days, yet the answering services work the same day as the outage. b. Kevin’s toboggan sliding down the stairs should have hit the wall, not fly out the front door. c. Some green-leafed trees are spotted in a yard. d. There’s too much slack in the rope that Harry and Marv are hanging from. e. “Orly Airport” is misspelled.

6. Which one is not a blooper?

e. Mom’s hair is done in a curly 1980s style not seen in the ‘40s.

a. Kevin runs out of the drugstore with unpaid toothpaste.

f. The Lifebuoy soap Ralphie has in his mouth is made of plastic.

b. The church’s front window has four panels outside, seven inside.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989): Clark W. Griswold’s Big Dream: To have the perfect family Christmas! That means in addition to him, wife Ellen, children Audrey and Russ, the house bursts at the seams with both sets of grandparents, elderly Aunt Bethany and Uncle Louis, and a surprise visit from hick Cousin Eddie, wife Cathrine, and their two kids plus their icky dog Snotz. Of course, everything goes wrong.

3. Which of the following is not a blooper? a. The Chicagoan Griswolds find their ideal Christmas tree in a mountainous area. b. They get the tree out of the ground with no tools. c. Neighbor Margo wears sunglasses at night. d. One of the needles on the electric meter box goes backwards. e. The broken icicle from the roof gutter flies off in the wrong direction.

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c. Before dinner Kevin crosses himself Eastern Orthodox style. d. When Mrs. McCallister comes bareheaded out of a snowstorm, her hair is dry. e. Despite knowing that burglars are around, Kevin enters through his unlocked front door.

Image Courtesy: www.paramountvt.org

Home Alone II: Lost In New York (1992): This time the McCallisters dash for a Christmas flight to Florida. Kevin lags behind and crashes into a ticket agent, causing her to spill her boarding passes for a flight to New York City.

Kevin retrieves what he believes to be his boarding pass to Miami and accidentally gets on a plane to NYC with Dad’s wallet in his backpack. In the meantime, Harry and Marv have broken out of prison and head to the Big Apple for a major score, a plan to steal from a toy store the Christmas cash earmarked for a children’s hospital.

7. Which are bloopers? a. In the taxi Kevin is wearing gloves, but a closer shot shows him barehanded. b. The number of pearls in the broken necklace multiplies when they spill on the sidewalk. c. At the ice rink Marv’s hairstyle changes from shot to shot. d. In the 1990 movie Kevin is eight years old.

In this movie’s story, taking place a year later, he’s ten. e. Once in the Plaza Hotel, Kevin asks a man for directions to the lobby (straight, then left). In the next shot Kevin turns right. f. All of the above.

The Santa Clause: (1994): After hearing a rooftop noise on Christmas Eve, Scott Calvin bolts out his front door to find Santa’s empty red suit in the snow. His son Charlie encourages Scott to put on the suit. Scott doesn’t realize that whoever puts it on becomes Santa Claus with all the duties that come with the job. His transition from toy executive to Jolly Saint Nick is awkward.

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8. Which is not a blooper? a. Charlie’s stepfather Neal puts his wallet in his back pocket twice. b. At a school presentation Scott’s tie changes from green plaid to solid red. c. The Santa suit first has a strip of white down the front; later it switches to two white pompoms, then one. d. In Scott’s first year as Santa he visits little Sarah, who’s missing two front teeth. The next year she’s still missing the same teeth.

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e. The story takes place in or around Chicago, yet Neal’s car license plates show Alberta, Canada.

BONUS QUESTION: How many film versions of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol have been made?

Answers on page 20.

820 Cleveland Road East, Granger, IN • (574) 247-4680 www.villageatarborwood.com • TTY (800) 743-3333 boom | DECEMBER 2014

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Travel Agent vs.

Booking Online By: Phyllis Rose

Trundling our luggage behind us after an overnight flight to Munich, Germany, my friends Judy, Carolyn, Dave and I entered our hotel - part of the package I had booked online. In fact, it was the first time I had booked a trip online. It had been so simple to click a few boxes online and end up with a trip package.

The flight had gone as planned, but would the hotel have our reservations? That was my concern, but just in case, I had brought paper documentation for our 10-day booking. Things went well at first. Judy and Carolyn checked in and waited as we approached the desk.

would be flying back to Detroit with four of us. But all six of us would be flying from Oahu to Kauai. I couldn’t imagine how to do that online, but our travel agent did it with no problem.

Special Prices - Online isn’t the only place to get special

“We don’t have a reservation for you,” the clerk said. “We have a room, but it will cost more. Also, we are booked for the weekend so you’ll have to go elsewhere for those two nights.”

deals. When the six of us flew to Hawaii and rented a car, AAA had a special rebate for packages in our price range which saved us some money. We didn’t know about the rebate when we went to AAA, so it was a nice surprise.

So you’re probably thinking I should have used a travel agent.

Not necessarily. Since then, I have used both online booking sites and travel agents. Both have their advantages. The key is to use the method which meets your needs.

When you buy a Eurail pass through AAA, the insurance in case the pass is lost or stolen is included. If you purchase it online, the insurance is extra.

Travel Agents Personal Touch - That’s a major advantage of using a travel agent with whom you’ve developed a relationship. For years, I’ve worked with Lori, a AAA travel agent. I have booked several trips with her for about 20 years. Before the days of online booking sites, she found us a delightful hotel in Bellagio, Italy, where we stayed many times. My emails with questions or concerns get a prompt response.

Experience - Agents have often traveled

to the destinations you’re visiting and can provide firsthand knowledge. When I booked an Alaska cruise for my friends Barb, Judy, Carolyn, and me, Lori told me what to expect on a cruise of this size since she had done one. Also, she gave me quick answers to questions that otherwise I would have had to search for on the cruise line’s website.

Complicated Itineraries - When five

friends and I were planning a trip to Hawaii, one person was flying from Florida, four from Detroit, and one from California, but on the way home, the California traveler 18

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Online Booking 24/7 - Online booking is available 24/7. Thinking about

your trip in the middle of the night, you can get up and start making plans. You don’t have to wait until normal office hours to get pricing and itineraries.

Comparison Shopping - I like comparing package prices depending on the hotels that fit my criteria for location and price. Planning a trip to Nuremberg, Germany, for my friend Barb and me, I printed out copies of various possibilities and showed them to Barb to help us make our decision. We ended up with a wonderful hotel across the street from the train station since we were going to be using a railpass. The hotel was also within walking distance of Nuremberg’s Old Town.

Traveler Reviews - I rely a lot on traveler reviews on websites. If a hotel’s overall rating is below average, I won’t consider it.

Even with highly rated hotels, I read some below-average reviews to see if there’s something to cause me concern.

“Both have their advantages. The key is to use the method which meets your needs.”

Travel Counselors - If you’ve found a package you like but aren’t comfortable booking it online, you can call a toll-free number to book through a travel counselor. I have done that and it has worked well. They can also answer questions about items that might not be clear from the website.

Simple Itineraries - If all I need is a hotel room, I book it online either through the hotel’s website or through a site like hotels.com. For our Alaska cruise, we needed to arrive a day early. The cruise line’s preferred hotel was expensive, so I went to hotels.com, found a less expensive hotel near the ship’s dock and booked it, saving us quite a bit of money.

A Little Bit of Both

Sometimes it’s best to use both. Last year, planning a trip to Bremen, Germany, for Judy, Barb and me, I found a hotel I liked online but when I went to book it with the site’s travel counselor, the price was higher than what the site said. The counselor explained there was a surcharge for the third person in the room. It was a significant amount, so I emailed my travel agent. She found us a nearby hotel with a room for three at a reasonable price and booked it for us. It was a fine hotel with a large room and a wonderful breakfast buffet.

So, what happened back there in Munich when the hotel didn’t have my reservation? I pulled out my documentation, told them we would not pay more than what we had paid, and, no, we would not be moving out for two nights. The clerk copied my documents, talked to her manager, and gave us a room.

Later, she called to say they had talked to the travel company about my reservation, and the problem had been cleared up.

So, we were set for our first wintertime visit to Bavaria and its delightful Christmas markets.

So, don’t hesitate to use online booking sites, but, at the same time, don’t give up on your travel agent. Both can help you design the perfect vacation. •••

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IT’S A

Wonderful Lie By: Margo and Jim Bell

ANSWERS:

Photo: thestandardedition.com

Photo: www.fanpop.com

1-f.

The leg lamp is one of the most notable props ever to come out of movies. We’ve seen copies available in catalogs—and yes, the lamp is humorously hideous.

2-c:

The braces stay on throughout the movie. Also, if Ralphie was sucking on a bar of Lifebuoy (which is more coral in color than red) he would have been foaming around the mouth. Note the seam around the bar of soap—a sure sign that it’s plastic.

3-e: One of the most glaring mistakes to anyone in the

Midwest is the mountain background of the local tree farm.

The movie’s film site was Breckenridge, Colorado, 1,079 miles from flat-terrained Chicago. And you might remember Russ’s line, “Dad, did you bring a saw?” How did they get the tree out of the ground??

4-e:

Although we all love moonlight, the constant full moon was another glaring mistake. Aunt Bethany’s two-time coat removal was done so quickly we missed it the first time.

5-a,b,d: If you note #b, the McCallister staircase

doesn’t line up exactly from top to the front door. Unless Kevin had enough time to steer the toboggan (which we don’t think he had), he would have crashed into the wall. Spotters have seen guide rails under the sled.

Photo: www.sky.com

6-a:

Kevin meant to pay for the toothpaste but was spooked by his scary neighbor, Old Man Marley—aka the South Bend Shovel Murderer—in the store. Moreover, we don’t believe the McCallisters were of the Eastern Orthodox faith. The “Holy Ghost” sign was made right to left.

7-f:

Note the man in the hotel giving directions to Kevin: It’s none other than Donald Trump!

8-b:

It’s Scott’s tie pin, not necktie, that changes in this scene. The movie was shot in Ontario, Canada.

BONUS ANSWER: We don’t know for sure! It depends on whom you ask. Answers can vary from 22 to as many as 200, some versions lost in time. These include silent films, shorts, animated features, full-length theater films (including musicals), and made-for-TV movies, either faithfully following the Dickens book (such as the Alistair Sim version of 1951) or turning into fanciful adaptations.

SOURCES: moviemistakes.com; slipups.com; Imbd; etc.

Happy Holidays!

COMING UP IN JANUARY: Alfred Hitchcock movies! Included will be Marnie, Psycho, North By Northwest and more!

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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boom

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On the First Day of Christmas

my True Love Gave to Me …

A Beer (in a tree) By: Chuck Bergman

I

f you are a Doug and Bob McKenzie fan, then you get the reference for the title of this article. If not, sorry my humor is a little eccentric. Either way, it is a great way to ask if you have bought your husband his Christmas present yet. If you haven’t, don’t worry there is still plenty of time, and plenty of options. If your husband is like many boomers, he has started enjoying high quality craft beer. The holiday season is a great opportunity to find him the perfect Christmas present … BEER! You could just buy a case at the grocery store and be done, but it is not as easy as you think. What style of beer does he enjoy? Is he a hop head, or does he prefer dark, rich stouts? Does he like German, Belgian, English, or American style beers? Does he like to experiment, or stick with a specific style?

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

The selections of craft beer can be overwhelming at times. Not only are there a variety of national brands, but each local brewery has a wide selection to choose from. Winter is a great time to find a new beer to enjoy. Many breweries offer multipacks during the holiday season. These often contain 3-4 different styles of beer that are perfect for the cold winter months. From Christmas Ales to Holiday Lagers, there are many styles to choose from.

“The holiday season is a great opportunity to find him the perfect Christmas present…

BEER!”

If you like a more hands-on approach, consider building your own 6-pack. Many of the local liquor stores now allow you to select individual bottles of beer to create your own custom multi-pack.

Most sell individual bottles from 12 ounces all the way up to 22 ounce bombers. This program allows you to select different styles of craft beer, you don’t have to feel limited to a season or specific style.

Another great Christmas gift option is membership in a beer club.

Each month you get a different selection of beers available to sample.

Most offer 12 packs combining 3-4 different styles of beers. Some offer 2-4 22 ounce bomber or 750mL sizes. Some clubs allow you to pick from a specified selection each month, but part of the fun is not knowing what interesting brews you will receive each month.

Most clubs have a broad selection of craft beers. Your husband gets to sample great brews produced by different craft breweries from around the country and possibly the world. And for the most part, the beers are selected by experts in the field. At the minimum, they are selected by those passionate about quality craft beer.

If your husband is a collector as well as an enthusiast, there are rare beer clubs that offer very hard-to-find or limited edition craft beers. Although these clubs are a little more expensive, he can get his hands on rare beers that may be difficult or impossible to find locally.

In the Meadow We Will Build a Snowman

If your husband is like me, he may be ready for the next step. Learning to homebrew takes enjoying craft beer to the next level. Most home brewers start out brewing 5 gallon batches with an equipment kit. These include the basics you will need to start the hobby, including a fermenting pale, measuring equipment, boiling pot, and empty 12oz bottles.

You can purchase these kits online or locally. I prefer the personal service of shopping locally, as well as supporting our Michiana economy. There are three area home brew stores including Michiana Brewers Supply in downtown South Bend, Quality Wine and Ale Supply in Elkhart, and Red Arrow Hobbies in Stevensville.

These stores stock the ingredients your husband will need to start brewing as well as provide helpful advice on getting started.

In the Lane, Snow is Glistening

For the true craft beer connoisseur, a perfect holiday gift would be specialized glassware so he can enjoy his brew the way it is meant to be. The right glass can provide a better presentation for your craft beer and the shape can enhance aroma or encourage a tight creamy head formation. In fact, some glassware is designed specifically to help preserve the foam head of your beer, while others are designed to help enhance the colors of the brew. The right glassware is a delivery mechanism that brings out the unique flavors, colors and aroma of different beer styles.

There are a wide variety of glass styles to choose from, but no bar is complete without these basics. A nonic pint glass has a simple cylindrical shape that gets wider as it goes up and has a slight bulge just below the rim. It is an all-purpose vessel for nearly every beer style you can imagine, and it’s perfect for beers that don’t require a lot of fuss. This bulge aids in handling and developing a more substantial head, concentrating the hop and malt aromas of the beer in the frothy head.

A pilsner glass is tall and slender, tapering at the bottom and sometimes with a stem. The slender design allows drinkers to appreciate the colors and carbonation bubbles within the beer. The slightly wider top of the glass also helps retain the foam head of your beer, and bring out its true flavor profile and aromas. This is a great glass for pilsners and American lagers.

A snifter is used primarily for brandy and cognac, yet these wide-bowled and stemmed glasses with their tapered mouths are perfect for capturing the aromas of strong ales. It’s small with a thin stem and footer, but the large bowl on top holds plenty of liquid. The snifter lends itself to beers that are high in alcohol. You cup the bell shaped base with your hands, allowing the beer to be warmed over time.

This teases out new and interesting characteristics of the heavier beers as the temperature changes. The snifter is typically reserved for stronger beers such as Double IPAs, Belgian sours and dark ales, Tripels, Quadrupels, imperial stouts and barrel-aged brews.

And don’t forget the standard beer mug! These glasses are incredibly robust, easy to use, and hold a lot of beer. Its main characteristic is a wide cylindrical shape with a handle on the side. The thick glass walls helps insulate your brew to keep it cool, while the handle helps prevent your hands from inadvertently warming up your beer (or dropping it when you’ve had too many).

Hopefully something from this list sparks your interest and will make a good gift for the husband who has everything. Or at least the husband that enjoys quality craft beer. •••

CHEERS! boom | DECEMBER 2014

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Decking the Halls

I

By: Pam Gunterman

f you are anything like me, the minute the stores begin to display the holiday decorations I am itching to decorate my home for the holiday season. When my children were young, my home was thoroughly decked for the season. I would begin the decorating process the Saturday after Thanksgiving and it would be about a week before it was complete. There was not a place inside or outside my home that was not filled with the spirit of Christmas.

Before you begin to picture the Griswold home from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, let me say that the holiday décor at my home fell well short of that level.

After my children grew up and the main holiday celebrations moved to other locations, it didn’t seem quite as important to deck every hall in my home. Even though I no longer decorate to the extent I once did, when my family was young, I still want my home to reflect the season. I still enjoy providing the feel of the holidays for my visitors, my family and for myself to enjoy.

In order to achieve the maximum effect with minimal time, effort and cost, I believe there are areas you can address that will give the impression of a total décor effort. Those areas include the front door, bathroom, family and or living room, kitchen and a tree.

“There are areas you can address that will give the impression of a total décor effort... the front door, bathroom, family and or living room, kitchen and a tree.”

Welcome the Holiday Spirit at your Front Door

Your front door, regardless if you live in a home, condo, apartment or independent living facility, will set the tone for the season. A wreath or sway with a simple holiday bow will send a welcoming message filled with holiday spirit. A live wreath with a seasonal bow is always nice, but another option is a grapevine wreath with that same seasonal bow. A great year round option is a grapevine wreath on which you switch out the bow for each season. With this simple change, it allows you to appear fresh and ready for each season with little effort or additional cost.

Spread the Holiday Cheer

Areas inside your home can also be given a holiday feel with little effort.

You can spruce up your bathroom and kitchen with the addition of a holiday themed towel set or dish towel. Adding a seasonally scented candle or air freshener to any room will lend the scent and feel of the season to that area.

The addition of seasonal greenery to your everyday décor will take that everyday look into the spirit of the season in a quick and easy fashion.

And last, but not least, a few well placed holiday themed pillows in your living and/or family room and bedrooms will spread the holiday feel throughout your home.

Light Up your Home with your Christmas Tree

Of course the center piece of your holiday décor is the tree.

With the availability of pre-lit trees that perfectly lighted effect is more easily attained. Unfortunately, some of the pre-lit trees are heavy and others are difficult to assemble. A fresh tree is always wonderful, but not always a good option. My suggestions can offer the best of both worlds; a table top size pre-lit tree still has that perfectly lighted look without the assembly issues and can be adorned with favorite family ornaments for that personal touch.

Another option is a smaller live tree in a ceramic pot; this gives the fragrance and feel of a live tree without some of the other issues that come with securing and maintaining a cut tree. Both of these options are also good for snow birds who head south shortly before or after the holidays as it makes the process of taking down the décor much easier.

Hopefully, these few ideas for a total holiday feel, with a few decorations that are easy to assemble, store and maintain will help you to deck your halls to welcome and celebrate the season! ••• boom | DECEMBER 2014

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Copshaholm Mansion Photo by Peter Ringenberg

A Tale of Two Mansions:

By: Evie Kirkwood

Copshaholm and Ruthmere

W

hen approaching the imposing structure in the historic district of West Washington Street in South Bend, visitors first notice the stone in lovely shades of gray and tinges of pink. While some architects today promote the use of native and regional materials for construction, Copshaholm is an early example of this concept. The exterior is constructed entirely of native Indiana fieldstone which was moved from area farm fields and cut on site by skilled masons. It was built in 1895-1896.

J.D. Oliver, president of Oliver Chilled Plow Works in South Bend, and his wife Anna raised their four children in the mansion, and various members of the Oliver family resided there for 72 years.

born, and given to the home to honor their ancestry,” says curator Kristie Erickson.

Ruthmere was named after the Beardsley’s daughter, Ruth, who died in infancy.

What’s inside

Warm tones of wood embrace visitors when they enter Copshaholm. According to Katie, the woodwork in the main hall and second floor gallery is oak, which was lightened and stripped of 17 coats of varnish in the late 1930s. Other rooms contain walls of mahogany, birch and cherry. The servants’ quarters are adorned with less expensive cypress.

Unlike many other house museums, is appointed with original In the next county over, where the St. Joseph and Elkhart furnishings, giving visitors an intimate sense of how the Oliver Rivers flow together in Elkhart, Albert and Elizabeth Beardsley family lived. It was one of the first homes in South Bend to chose to build their three-story mansion fourteen years later. have electricity.

As a “showcase” for these prominent citizens of the era, Wood is also a focal point of many of the rooms in Ruthmere, it was different in form and function from any other home and Cuban mahogany can be found throughout the house. in Elkhart. It is clad with cream-colored brick from Ohio.

Jennifer says the house was state-of –the art for its time Indiana limestone was used for trim and accent. Jennifer period. It incorporated a central Johns, curator, says, “A conservatory vacuum system, and although it had greenhouse, connected to the home gas fixtures, it was also wired for from an underground tunnel , is a Copshahom Kitchen testament to Elizabeth’s love for electricity, which was turned on for Photo Courtesy: Center for History plants and gardening.” three hours a day.

It’s all in the name

Both mansions were named with homage to family. “’Copshaholm’ is the local name for the town in Scotland where J. D. Oliver's father James was 26

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Although both homes are massive, Ruthmere has much more “opulence” says Jennifer. Within rooms and on the exterior, pomegranates are recurring features carved in

stone, plaster and wood as symbols of wealth and prosperity. Other features in the ornate rooms include a Tiffany chandelier, custom murals, velvet-covered walls and a unique combination player piano-organ.

Fun and games

The Beardsleys chose to forgo an upper level ballroom in Ruthmere and instead added a lower level elegant game room used for entertainment. Here guests enjoyed poker and pinochle, a favorite pastime of the Beardsleys. Copshaholm has a billiard room.

In the kitchen

The heart of the house is the kitchen, and Copshaholm’s was managed by a full staff attending to a bustling family.

The wood icebox held 200lbs of ice, and a cork-insulated cool room in the basement beneath held things like potatoes.

Ruthmere Mansion Photo Courtesy Ruthmere Musuem The kitchen was updated in 1938 with green linoleum, art deco light fixtures and white paneling “to brighten things up,” says Katie. All the cabinets and walls were painted white, and a stainless steel countertop was installed on the center island. Katie says the oldest item in the kitchen is probably the well-used heirloom carving set with ivory handles.

Ironically, Ruthmere’s kitchen was also remodeled in 1938 by Albert's nephew, Arthur Beardsley and his wife Stella who lived there in the late 1920s and ‘30s.

They had no staff and remodeled the kitchen to suit their needs, with new floor- to-ceiling cabinets. The original walk-in ice box was turned into a pantry.

Jennifer says, “Green linoleum apparently was the fashion of the day, because the makeover, like Copshaholm, also included a new green floor.”

For the holidays

Both mansions are open for tours, and are especially vibrant during the holidays when they are decorated for the season.

At Ruthmere, the holiday theme is “Nutcracker Christmas” with a collection of nutcrackers displayed throughout the house through December 30. Special evening tours are also offered. Tour information is available at 574-264-0330 or Ruthmere.org Christmas at Copshaholm this year is “The World at War.” Special tours with a backdrop of World War I, featuring the Acting Ensemble, are available Sundays in December. Call 235-9664 to order tickets or Centerforhistory.org •••

Give the Gift of Shopping

this Holiday Season

ARDS GIFT C ble

aila now Av es at Cloth Mentor!

Mon-Sat 10am - 8pm Sun 12pm - 6pm 5930 Grape Road (574) 855-4493

We are now buying and selling in preparation for the holiday season!

Pay cash on the spot for Coats and boots.

Clean out your closet before the holidays!

Located in the Indian Ridge Shopping Center

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! Clothes Mentor Mishawaka

Like-New fashions for ALL Women • sizes 0-26 & maternity

Visit us at: www.clothesmentor.com

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27

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recipe

Peppermint Meringues

Ingredients: • 2 Egg Whites

• 1/8 Teaspoon Salt • 1/8 Teaspoon Cream of Tarter • ½ Cup Sugar • 2 Peppermint Crushed Candy Canes

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 225 degrees F and line two cookie sheets with foil.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites, salt and cream of tartar to soft peaks, then gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until whites form stiff peaks.

3. Drop spoonful’s one inch apart on the prepared cookie sheets.

Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the cookies.

4. Bake for an hour and a half. Meringues should be completely dry on the inside. Store loosely covered in a cool dry place for up to two months.

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DECEMBER 2014 | boom

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book review

Alias Hook

By Lisa Jensen

Reviewed By: Kalie Steele, Reference Services Librarian at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library, Harris Branch Veteran film critic Lisa Jensen’s latest novel, Alias Hook, is a fantasy worthy of those classic cold winter nights where all you want to do is curl up with a blanket, a steaming mug of hot cocoa and a good book. It captures the imagination and spirits the reader away to warmer climates and adventure.

flashback chapters of Hook’s life and current adventures with Stella to reveal the reasons the witty, sophisticated privateer came to be the infamous villain whom everyone knows.

Before picking this book up, it helps to have a familiarity with J.M. Barrie’s story of Peter Pan, whether that is the play, the book or any of the movie versions. A familiarity is the only thing needed though, because this book is a nuanced, vividly imagined, alternative telling of Peter Pan; it is the story of Captain Hook. Or, one might say, it is Peter Pan for adults.

This story is the story of two adults in the Neverland, and Jensen does a good job of balancing the adventure and fantasy found in the original Peter Pan story with serious, complicated issues we face when we grow up. She delicately handles intimacy scenes and language, giving the reader just enough adult content to make the story consistent with the time period and entertaining for the reader. She also deftly transposes the key role Wendy plays in the original story to the role of the funny, educated, and courageous Stella, who is ultimately responsible for this adventure and the redemption of Captain Hook.

Jensen introduces the reader to life in the Neverland as it appears right after World War II. Captain Hook has reigned as pirate commander for over 200 years, waging a constant battle against the boy Peter and his tribe of Lost Boys, when Stella Parrish suddenly appears – an unheard of grown-up woman in the Neverland. As Hook and Stella meet, work together, and come to rely on each other, Hook’s history comes to light. The story skillfully weaves between

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PETS

Pick this book up for an escape from winter’s chill, a thoughtprovoking read, and a chance to see how a woman is so important to the life of the children’s haven of the Neverland. •••

The Elkhart Humane Society Needs Your Help!

Loving animals are in need of families!

CASHMERE: I am a beautifully colored five-year-old Pit Bull and Terrier Mix. My name fits me perfectly! I am a social butterfly that wants to be a lap dog. I am spayed and I love to hang out with my human and dog friends. I am mellow and love toys. Would you like to go shopping with me? My adoption fee is waived to adopters 55 and over!

EPIC: If you like your cats

shiny and black I'm the girl for you.

Playing ball is a lot of fun. I give kitty hugs and purrs. I am spayed and about a year and a half old.

We could write a long happy story together. Forgot to tell you that since I am a black cat my adoption fee is discounted 25% this month.

Come visit me!

FLIK: I'm Flik, a happy go lucky guy. I

would love to be part of your life. I am playful, sweet and lovable. I give head butts, have a great big purr and will nudge you if I need a pet, I am looking for a best friend! In fact I like to pet…pet…petted.

I am a beautiful orange tabby that is a year and a half old, and I am neutered. boom | DECEMBER 2014

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DECEMBER 2014 Events

The following list includes events around town. Always call ahead for updates.

December 1st

Bazaar Sundays in South Bend 10:00 A.M. The Emporium Building

Looking for something "different?" Shop Bazaar Sundays in South Bend "mini mall" for unique handcrafted items from local vendors. They are always on the lookout for new, exciting, unique hand crafters for their show each month. Check out their Facebook page for a list of participating vendors. They are open on the third Sunday of each month with December and June happening on the 2nd Sunday. Located inside the Emporium Building, safe from the outdoor elements, you are sure to feel at home with our comfy mix of shopping, dining and more shopping.

December 3rd The Friendship Group

9:30 P.M. Charles Martin Youth Center

Every Wednesday, enjoy meeting other older adults for fun, friendship and activities. They meet each Wednesday at the Charles Martin Youth Center, 802 Lincolnway West, South Bend, at 9:30 am. For info call 291-7898. Come join the fun!!

December 5th

Lory's Place Cookie Walk 6:00 P.M. Splash Photography

The Lory’s Place Crew will hold a cookie walk on Friday, December 5, from dusk to 9:00 p.m. on the corner of State and Broad Street at the Splash Photography storefront during the third Annual Live Mannequins event in downtown St. Joseph. The holiday treats are $5 per dozen.

Proceeds from the sale will support the programs and services of Lory’s Place. The Lory’s Place Crew is a group of volunteers who support the Center’s mission and services. Please call (269) 983-2707 for more information about the cookie walk or about joining the Crew.

December 6th

It's a Wonderful Life at A Rosie 10:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M.

If you are a family with a special needs child 15 years or younger, please join A Rosie Place for a holiday open house! A Rosie Place provides respite care services for medically fragile children. But, this event is for the entire special needs community (children 15 and under)!

Join them for family pictures with Santa and 30

DECEMBER 2014 | boom

Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa and cookies, crafts and children's activities. Visit their website for more information arosieplace.org or call 574-2358899. Happy Holidays!

Spa Holiday Open House 10:00 A.M. BellaNova Women’s Health

Treat yourself this holiday season and attend the Spa Holiday Open House at BellaNova Women's Health. This year's event will include: discounts on all products will be 30% OFF, prepaid treatments available, $50 per treatment (limit 6), current spa patients bring a friend and receive a free treatment, complementary refreshments, $500 door prize, free samples, $10 paraffin treatments, refer three friends get a free eye shadow and gift with purchases.

December 8th

Monthly Meditation Yoga

5:30 P.M. Elkhart Environmental Center

Do you enjoy yoga? Are you interested in yoga and looking for an opportunity to try it? The Elkhart Environmental Center and Kristen SmithMyers RYT 500 certified yoga instructor from Tree of Life Yoga are teaming up to offer free Monthly Meditation Yoga Classes in 2014. Class is held on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Elkhart Environmental Center.

Participants will learn basic relaxation techniques to help stretch the body and clear the mind. All levels are welcome. It is recommended that you dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat or towel. Space is limited and classes fill up fast.

Registration is required. Call 574-293-5070 to register or for more information.

December 13th Explore Piano 11:00 A.M.

Try a free sample piano lesson. You will be taught by a creative, supportive and experienced teacher. Please RSVP to Marjorie 574-210-9274 mmrusche@aol.com.

December 13th & 14th: Southold Dance Theater Presents The Nutcracker Ballet

Three Shows: December 13th at 2PM & 7PM and December 14th at 2PM

This timeless holiday classic returns to thrill and enchant audiences of all ages. Delightful sets and costuming will enhance your travels with

Clara as you watch her Nutcracker come to life, see her Christmas tree grow, and travel with her to the world of the Sugar Plum Fairy. From dancing soldiers to pirouetting snowflakes, it's a treat for the whole family! Southold Dance Theater's production of this classic ballet is one you won't want to miss! Tickets available at Morris Box Office: M-F 10 AM-5 PM; by phone: 800-537-6415; or online at www.MorrisCenter. org. Ticket Outlets with credit card: Hammes Bookstore/Eddy Street Commons, South Bend; O’Brien Recreation Center, South Bend; and TG Music, Goshen.

Holiday Ball

6:00 P.M. Century Center

The 2014 Junior League of South Bend, Inc. Holiday Ball is an annual dinner/dance gala fundraiser to benefit the community initiatives of our organization. One of the highlights of this exciting event at the Century Center is the presentation of the "Mary Lou Schwartz Award" to this year's recipient, Pamela Mullin. This prestigious honor is awarded to the member who exemplifies the successful volunteer fundraising spirit of the late Schwartz, a longtime community volunteer and member of The Junior League of South Bend, Inc. You won't want to miss the premiere event of the holiday season on December 13! Visit jlsouthbend.org for tickets. This event is black tie.

December 22nd

Celtic Woman - Home for Christmas, The Symphony Tour 7:00 P.M. Morris Performing Arts Center

Irish music sensation CELTIC WOMAN celebrates the holiday season with "Home for Christmas, The Symphony Tour." The concert offers an unparalleled musical experience, with Celtic Woman performing timeless holiday songs accompanied by a full symphony orchestra. Featuring music from the all-female music ensemble's second Christmas album, "Home for Christmas," and the brand new live concert DVD, "Home for Christmas: Live from Dublin," CELTIC WOMAN promises an enchanting and festive evening filled with mesmerizing music, performance and holiday cheer. Tickets available at Morris Box Office: M-F 10 AM-5 PM; by phone: 800-537-6415; or online at www.MorrisCenter.org. Ticket Outlets with credit card: Hammes Bookstore/Eddy Street Commons; O’Brien Recreation Center, South Bend; and TG Music, Goshen.

Celebrate the Moment Christmas Day Brunch Join us for delicious food and merriment as we roll out an expansive buffet of appetizers, entrées, side dishes and sweet treats in the William and Mary Ann Smith Ballroom.

Thursday, December 25 // 11:00 am – 3:00 pm $39.95 Adults // $10.95 Children 5-12 years // 4 and under free Indiana State Law prohibits serving alcohol on Christmas Day.

MORRIS INN GIFT CARDS

Afternoon Tea in Sorin’s

Morris Inn gift cards can be used for dining at Sorin’s and Rohr’s, and for lodging. Purchase a $100 gift card and receive a complimentary $25 bonus card.

Featuring Rishi Tea Monday, December 1 – Sunday, March 29 Three Seatings Daily – 2:30, 2:45, 3:00 pm

HOLIDAY CHOIRS Select weekdays in December.

Excluding Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

Enjoy your favorite carols as local choirs perform in the lobby.

Little Sipper – $10 // Apple cider or hot chocolate with assorted treats Traditional Tea – $16 // Assortment of sweet treats Afternoon Tea – $24 // Assortment of sweet and savory treats Champagne Afternoon Tea – $45 // Assortment of sweet and savory treats with Champagne

Reservations can be made by calling 574.631.2000.

Does not include tax and gratuity. Valet parking included.

130 MORRIS INN

//

NOTRE DAME, IN 46556

//

574.631.2000

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MORRISINNHOLIDAYS.COM

Give the Gift of Independence

Experience the freedom you deserve with one of our lift chairs or stair lifts.

up to

$200 off *

LiFt CHairs

*Discount based on chair style

Come in and check out our gift ideas!

20% off all stair lifts and a FREE home evaluation.

savings starting at

$670

Many colors and styles to choose from. Free home assessment and delivery. Discounts do not apply to insurance or Medicare reimbursement purchases and cannot be combined with any other offer.

Offer expires December 31, 2014.

5155 Verdant Dr. | Elkhart, IN 46516 | 574.294.6181 | 3355 Douglas Rd. | South Bend, IN 46635 | 574.647.2273

HomeCareBeacon.com