Dec 2013/Jan 2014 Shore

style & culture

december 2013/january 2014

OUR BIGGEST

GIFT guide HOLIDAY DECORATING A table that goes on forever

1

ISSUE/MONTH YEAR

INCLUDING CHEFS WHO BUTCHER By Jane Ammeson Rick Kaempfer ON THE ROAD TO DUBROVNIK ANTICIPATING ‘LUNA GALE’ FORCE By Kathryn MacNeil

Quality Care,

in your neighborhood.

OPEN 7 Days! | 8 am - 8 pm | 219-286-3707

When you need Immediate Care - we are here! for prompt treatment of minor illnesses and injuries

Cough, cold, flu, sprained ankle, bumps and bruises? When you do not feel good, you want to see a doctor as quickly as possible.

The Valparaiso Health Center of St. Mary Medical Center offers Immediate Care for patients who

need treatment for minor illnesses that are not life threatening. There is no appointment necessary, and since we are open on evenings and weekends, you can get medical care when you need it most.

Friend & Follow w CHSHospitals

3800 St. Mary Drive Valparaiso, IN www.comhs.org

Experience at 711 Main Street Schererville, IN 219-322-2700

Southlake Mall Merrillville, IN 219-769-1976

contents

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

38 Organic

Modern

BY CAROLYN PURNELL

Relaxed, breezy and bohemian décor channels mother earth with a pinch of sophistication.

photo by CAROLYN PURNELL

38

BY JENNIFER PALLAY

The definitive introduction into the sport of competitive ice carving, just in time for the annual St. Joseph ice carving festival.

42 Tablescapes

BY PAT COLANDER

44 Shore Short Story Contest Short story authors have the chance to win prizes and be printed in our next online-only issue.

Check out the 40-plus time- and money-saving ideas that we have assembled for this year’s holiday shopping. This comprehensive guide not only provides a list, but a detailed description of how and where to go to get these hot items.

77 Chefs Who Butcher

ON OUR COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Tony V. Martin TABLE DESIGN BY Diana Twyman and Terry Cera LOCATION Miller Bakery Café 555 S. Lake St Miller Beach, Gary, Ind. 219.427.1446 millerbakerycafe.com

BY JANE AMMESON

In an echo of cozy winters past, more and more area chefs are taking the time to butcher their own meats.

style & culture

december 2013/january 2014

OUR BIGGEST

GIFT guide HOLIDAY DECORATING A table that goes on forever

INCLUDING CHEFS WHO BUTCHER By Jane Ammeson Rick Kaempfer ON THE ROAD TO DUBROVNIK ANTICIPATING ‘LUNA GALE’ FORCE By Kathryn MacNeil

ISSUE/MONTH YEAR

VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM

How to create a professional, put-together table in time for the holidays.

45 The Shore Guide to Holiday Gifting 2013

1

36 Ice Worlds

2

The righT ApproAch To

arcHitecturaLLy exciting!

Exquisite Details in this French Chateau on 2.5 Acres. 2 story Library with Fireplace, Large Formal Dining Room, Elaborate Kitchen with loads of work space and walk-in pantry, Guest House with over 1150 square feet, Indoor Pool with sauna, hot tub and spacious bar for entertaining, 6 Bedroom suites, 14 baths, Elevator, 6 Garage Spaces, Wine Cellar and Tasting Room, Home Theater, Exercise Room, Beautiful terraces and outdoor staircases. Over 16,667 square feet of living space.

No Detail has been Overlooked!

Now Offered at $3,750,000!

pending

sOLd

1574 snead avenue

privacy and grandeur

1520 HOgan avenue

1045 WaLKer pass

Country French and made for entertaining!.

This 5 bedroom 7 bath home has features and quality over the top. Circle drive with a bridge. 150’ stream with Koi pond. Gunite pool with retractable cover.

Study, Main Floor Master Suite, Sun Room, Detached and Attached Garages, Home Theater, Game Room, daylight finished basement and the list goes on!

Grand Home in Gated Sand Creek Country Club on nearly 2 Private Acres! Beautiful grounds, gazebo, walkways, and in-ground pool. Covered verandahs front and back.

A master suite that is fit for a king. 4 additional suites with one on the main floor. Magnificent curved moldings and architectural details. Library, Formal Living, Formal Dining, Butler’s Pantry, Dream Kitchen with SS Updates, Family room.

Beautifully remodeled 4 bedrooms,

Beautiful 1.5 Story home with Main

4 baths. Walk-out fully finished basement.

Floor Master Suite. Hardwood

2 Story foyer, study, 2 Fireplaces inside,

Floors, Study, Open Floor Plan,

1 outside. Gazebo, granite , wine

Upstairs there are 3 bedrooms, 2

refrigerators, pantry SS appliances,

baths. Finished basement with Bar,

LL Bar Wooded Yard, 3 car garage.

Builtin and 2nd fireplace, bath. 3 car

Offered at $1,790,000

Offered at $1,425,000

heated garage. Fabulous for the price!

Offered at $599,900

Offered at $519,000

loTs aVailable in sand CreeK

Other area GaTed WHiTeTHorne Woods Executive Home with over 10,000 sq ft. 5 bedrooms/possible 6. Open and updated home. Kitchen and huge family room. Walk out Lower Level. Grand terrace. 4 fireplaces including one in the master bath and bedroom. Bar, mudroom, pantry, study with built-ins.

Game rooms, craft room.

Pending

1245 Kilarney

Spacious and well appointed with over 3700 sq ft. Hardwood floors, great kitchen with pantry, 2 ovens, SS appliances, island, breakfast room, privacy lot. Upstairs you will find 4 bedrooms, all have large Walk in closets. Master with dressing area and spacious bath. Upstairs home theater room, or play room. Main floor office or den and Great room that is light and bright with stone fireplace. 3 car garage.

1058 Mission Hills CT. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhouse, walk-out unfinished basement with crawl, SS appliances, new carpet, new paint, Formal living, dining , den with fireplace.

Large master with double sinks, walk in closet and tray ceiling. Loft area. End unit.

Backs up to woods.

Priced to Sell $265,000

Offered at $493,500

Various Lots

Offered at $1,195,000

in Phase V, IV. Call for prices

from $66,900

543 n. old sT. rd. 2 Sitting on 18 acres of lush wooded property with 6 beds, 6 baths, sits this 8,000 sq ft 1941 all brick home. Grand in scale with 7 fireplaces, 4 season’s room. Features like lighted tray ceilings, daylight basement windows. Caretakers home also.

1710 snead aVenue .68 Acres on Pond, Corner Lot with Southern Exposure to back

$139,900

1361 neLson driVe Wooded Golf Course and Creek Views .468A

Coming Soon!

1220 ryder road $175, 000

4000 Square Foot All Brick Golf Course and Pond

Large Golf Course Lot Pond and Fairway Views 1.6 Acres Walkout Possible

2800 Square Foot Brick Golf Course Ranch with Finished Basement

CoMinG soon!

Jackson Township on 3 acres.

Newer 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, Studio or Car Display area plus 3 car garage, many possibilities!

Golf Course Lot .85A Pond Views

8600 Square Foot Beauty on Quiet Street

4500 Square Foot Stone and Brick Golf Course

Offered at $894,500

$125,000

1709 snead aVenue

1485 sand CreeK driVe Golf Course and pond Location! This home has 3900 sq feet of living area. Covered verandah across the back of home. Main Floor Master Suite, 3 bedroom suites on upper level. Hardwood floors, professional kitchen.

Offered at $549,900 /or Lease

$399,900

1715 amen Corner Court

1560 FouLis Court

laporTe , Karen CourT Tiffany Woods All brick 5,000 plus sq ft.

3 Story Home 6 beds, 6 baths, in-ground pool, near express-ways and Briar Leaf Golf Club.

$135,000

Offered at $529,000

Large lot on water with Southern and eastern exposure. Sets off the road.

$140,000

1.39 Acre lot

sand Creek

Chesterton, indiana Just 55 minutes to Chicago’s Loop

Call me about other sand Creek Lot Listings

soLd

soLd

CHesTerTon, 915 n 100 W Over 1 acre, 5 beds, 4 baths, sun room, detached heated and attached garages, 3 seasons room, hot tub, office, lots of decking and firepit, open concept kitchen with all the details. Breakfast room, formal dining. Builders own home.

Offered at $427,500 Valparaiso, TurTle run A New 4 bedroom, 5 bath all stone ranch on 2 acres. Upper Bonus room and finished basement for close to 7,000 sq. feet. HW floors and exceptional details throughout! Room for a pool, whole house generator.

Attached and detached garages.

Offered at $750,000

contents

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

22

16 13

18

84 CLICKS 124 Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region Gala

125 Black Tie Bingo

Masquerade of Love

126 Taste of Care

Krewe Apollo

MS Auction 28 Museum of Science and Industry’s Columbian Ball 29 Cirque de la Symphonie

3arts Awards Gala 1

HOUSE & GROUNDS 84

SHORELINES 11 INTRO

18 THE

12 LISTEN

20 A FINE

MESS

22 GREEN

NOTES

A New Orleans artist brings his inclusive art to Gary, just in time for Mardi Gras.

Mary Wilson of the Supremes rings in the holidays with the Four Tops at the Harris Theatre.

13 CULTURE

NUT

The latest play directed by Bob Falls promises a Gale of a time.

14 SHAW THOUGHTS

Insight into the Illinois governor’s races, past and present.

VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM

16 MOTORING

The 2014 Porsche and Mercedes lines put luxury to the test.

GOOD LIFE

The life of luxury at Puerto Rico’s Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Not quite Spring Break, but a boy’s trip all the same.

The romance of a shipwreck lies just under the waves of Lake Michigan.

23 INTERVIEW

Author and attorney brings us up to speed on his latest bestseller, Identical.

HISTORIC HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BY JANE AMMESON

A historic mansion once held the Great Depression’s state of the art technology, and is now a home for the holidays.

LAST RESORT 96 CARD

GAMES

BY KATHRYN MCNEIL

A self-proclaimed “Christmas card geek” explains the appeal of the season’s post.

HOTSPOTS 30 Essential Events 80 Bite & Sip 88 Shore Things 94 Shorecast 18 Publisher’s Letter 19 Editor’s Letter 110 Feedback

photography by [clockwise, from top left] JON L. HENDRICKS, LIZ LAUREN, MERCEDES, TONY V. MARTIN, GEORGE AQUINO

127 Albert’s 10th Annual

6

From the doctors and staff at Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates, Inc.

PUBLISHER’S

LETTER

Thanks to all our patients for the trust you place in us.

May your days be merry and bright!

A

s a relative newcomer, I’m still awed by the power and the beauty of Lake Michigan. The business advantage of living so close to the lake is something I completely understand, but it’s the aesthetic value, while more difficult to measure, that has the real impact on people who live here.

cheer VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM

Glendale Medical Center 1101 E. Glendale Blvd., Suite 102, Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 462-6144 (877) 462-6249 Visit www.weunderstandwomen.com to learn more and make an appointment.

In the last two months I have had some amazing and unique Chicago experiences including meeting former Mayor Richard Daley, going to my first Chicago Bulls game at the United Center and attending a fundraising dinner with more than 1,000 people in the Grand Ballroom with the 80-foot-high ceiling and an outdoor balcony at the end of Navy Pier. While I never expected those who have lived in the area a long time, or perhaps all their lives, to be infected by the same wide-eyed enthusiasm that I feel.

I was amazed to find so many who can’t wait to show and tell me about everything wonderful here.

That energy and wonder extends beyond the city limits to the national and state lakeshore parks, the port and industrial complex spreads over three Indiana counties recently revitalized by the Marquette Plan and the whole of southwestern Michigan wine country that includes as much culture as agriculture.

The beach towns and college towns that I am learning about are cultivating their own grassroots institutions like the nonprofit artists co-op in New Buffalo, the expanded educational programs at Fernwood, the Acorn theater in Three Oaks and the revitalization of Benton Harbor from the downtown arts and entertainment district to the construction of a new high-rise hotel at the center of the Harbor Shores development.

Now fully relocated, I look forward to investigating the lakeshore to the east at closer range. I missed the splendor of harvest season in the Michigan appellations, but I am warming to the idea of exploring the great restaurants, craft breweries, luxury hotels, spas and casinos, while they aren’t as crowded as the summer months.

May your holidays be a source of joy and blessings for you and your families this year. This December/January issue is our anniversary edition. Shore has been around for eight years now.

Even our replica edition is ripening. We started posting Shore in 2009 and continue to enjoy a steady stream of readers and subscribers to our twice-weekly e-newsletters.

I’m looking forward to 2014 and an even deeper focus on our Shore market and its thriving, growing and unique audience.

CHRIS WHITE Delicious

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NWI Headline Graphics offers gallery-style canvas prints perfect for holiday gifts. Call 219.933.3265 or visit nwiheadlinegraphics.com for more information.

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EDITOR’S

LETTER

I

’m convinced that we have found the reset button this season. I could not ignore the swelling of the gift guide but more than just volume, the grassroots creativity and innovation appearing in almost every category of business, is staggering. I am afraid that I am over-using the word inspire, but honestly, I can’t help it. I have been taking notes on perfect presents for months now. How can I possibly be content with a gift card for my son when I know that he would absolutely be thrilled with an excuse for a shopping expedition to the craft brewery in Sawyer?

Twitter

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Apple

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PAT COLANDER Qik

TumblrPAT FOLLOW ON TUMBLR AT PATCOLANDER.TUMBLR.COM

9

REPIN SHORE CHOICES ON YOUR AT PINTEREST.COM/ SHOREMAG/BOARDS

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

While I tend to shy away from novelty foods like fruit and candy flavored vodkas, I have recently fallen for specialty boutiques that sell gourmet olive oils and aged vinegar. I can remember when the best option for vinegar and oil was a friend who had relatives in Italy who would pack and send products. It only seems like a million years ago that the best method for getting good and fresh tasting salad dressing would be to blend oil, vinegar and a packet of powder from Good Seasons and shake vigorously. Last night I dressed fresh olives and sweet peppers with garlic mushroom olive oil and smokehouseDelicious balsamic Flickr vinegar, which made the dish taste kind of like grilled beef, without the indigestion.

I have given the gift of transportation often enough to be somewhat of an expert, but I especially appreciated Facebook the MySpace discounted plane ticket I found via airfarewatchdog.com at Kayak this year to give myself a two-way trip to New Orleans back in September, so I could spend a week visiting my daughter and picking up on the many good deals that only a resident Slash Dot would Mixx know about, like half-price oysters and drinks during happy hour at the John Besh restaurant in the financial district. This Thanksgiving we are going to try the gift of zipcar to move our out-of-town relatives around the area.

Reddit FriendFeed I have become enamored of graphic novels lately. I had forgotten all about R. Crumb and Art Spiegelman and I never knew about Alison Bechdel or Nicole J. Georges because I got busy reading other things. This is a momentNewsvine when I got a SlideShare gift, when it dawned on me what I have lost or missed by not browsing in stores, in this case used bookstores, but it applies to just about everything. While I will never miss standing in line (unless there is something really special at the end Yahooof it), or Yahoo Buzz trying on clothes under any circumstances, I will rethink taking the time to search through a pile of bargain jewelry, stare at a wall of an art museum gift store or wander aimlessly through a night market in New Orleans.

Microsoft MSN My wish for 2014 is that everyone reclaim the sense of wonder that we may have lost temporarily in the noise, in the chaos, in the struggle to make everything better right away. Otherwise in the haste of reviewing what you’ve accomplishedApp this year, you Amazon Store may not realize what you’ve missed.

Behance

feedback In the Oct/Nov issue of Shore, Ken Kozminski’s name was spelled incorrectly on the Contents page. Shore regrets the error.

In Show Dog Story (Oct/Nov 2013), about Grace Elliott Tydings’ experiences on the dog show circuit, the designation of her Field Spaniel in 2010, 2011 and 2012 was inaccurately stated.

The article should have said that Ms. Tyding’s dog Arthur’s milestone achievements included Rank 3 for Field Spaniels 2010 and Rank 2 in 2011 and that in May of 2012 when Arthur was ranked 4, he was designated AOM at the FSSA National. It was never BEST IN SHOW the intention of the magazine or the author of the story to publish wrong or misleading information or to hurt other dog owners involved in those events. Our intent was to provide a window into the world of dog shows by profiling a former participant who had opted out. The online version of the story was corrected immediately and can be accessed here: nwitimes.com/niche/shore/entertainment/ show-dog-story-grace-elliott-tydings-and-her-practically-perfect/ article_3fd7a448-7d7c-5b0e-ae0c-000e7b74796e.html style & culture

Grace Elliott Tydings and Her Practically Perfect Pooches

october/november 2013

style & culture

Publisher Christopher T. White VP of Sales and Marketing John Tucker Advertising Operations Manager Eric Horon 219.933.3346 Eric.Horon@nwi.com

MAN UP

Legendary Guy NICK OFFERMAN

Sweet

HOLLYWOOD

Chicago

Hops at Harvest Time

CROPS IN VOGUE

TO THE EDITORS:

0 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 1

I recently came across your magazine for the first time, the most recent issue published. I read one article in particular, the one about Grace Elliott Tydings and her dogs. Being a fellow dog owner and dog show competitor, I was appalled after reading the article. When I first came across this, I was hoping for a well-written article about a fellow competitor’s journey to Westminster and successes along the way.

There were a few inaccuracies within your article, which may have occurred because you may have been given false information. The first is Arthur being the #1 dog in 2011 and 2012. First, AKC requires that if someone is to quote statistics such as this, they must reference the statistic. There were no statistics referenced. Secondly, Arthur was the #1 Male Field Spaniel, #2 Field Spaniel of either sex, according to AKC. If I was the owner of the real #1 dog, I would be furious. It is like coming in second place in a race and saying you won first place. It takes money, hard work and dedication to get into the top spot. Please see the link for complete 2011 results: caninechronicle.com/statistics/?type=breed&b_year=2011&cat=S porting+Group&breed=118.

If I was not already involved in the sport reading that article would turn me away indefinitely. In a day and age where people are doing everything they can to stop dog breeders and dog shows, this article does not help dog breeders and enthusiasts in continuing the sport. If nothing else, it hurts us. Please take a moment to read AKC’s code of sportsmanship: classic.akc.org/ pdfs/AKC_code_of_sportsmanship.pdf. We exhibitors must sign that we agree to this, before making each and every show entry.

We in the show dog community enjoy our sport and the people who bring light to our sport enjoy it as well. People who cause drama, hurt other people, and falsify information to make themselves appear to be above and beyond everyone else, are not what this sport is about. In the end, we all just want to enjoy our dogs.

Thank you, Jessica Dixon

Senior Account Executive Lisa Tavoletti Illinois/Indiana/Michigan 219.933.4182 Lisa.Tavoletti@nwi.com Account Executive Mary Sorensen Michigan 616.451.3006 Mary.Sorensen@nwi.com

volume 9 / number 7

Editor / Associate Publisher Pat Colander 219.933.3225 Pat.Colander@nwi.com Managing Editor Kathleen Dorsey 219.933.3264 Kathleen.Dorsey@nwi.com Associate Content Producer Tara McElmurry 219.933.4333 Tara.McElmurry@nwi.com Associate Editor Eloise Valadez 219.933.3365 Eloise.Valadez@nwi.com Niche Assistant Matt Sharp Matt.Sharp@nwi.com

Traffic Manager Tom Kacius 219.933.3299 Thomas.Kacius@nwi.com

Design Director Ben Cunningham 219.933.4175 Ben.Cunningham@nwi.com

Pre-press and Operations Special Projects Manager Kris Julius 219.933.3378 Kris.Julius@nwi.com

Designer April Burford

Published by Lee Enterprises The Times of Northwest Indiana Niche Division 601 W 45th Street Munster, Indiana 46321 219.933.3200 Michigan/Indiana Sales 1111 Glendale Boulevard Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 219.462.5151

New Subscriptions, Renewals, Inquiries and Changes of Address: Shore Magazine Circulation Dept., 601 W 45th St, Munster, IN 46321, or 800.589.2802, or visitshoremagazine.com Reprints and Permissions: You must have permission before reproducing material from Shore magazine.

Single copy price is $4.95.

One-year subscriptions $20 Two-year subscriptions $25

Lead Photographer Tony V. Martin Contributing Editors Jane Ammeson George Aquino Heather Augustyn Lois Berger Christine Bryant John Cain Marcia Froelke Coburn Jane Dunne Jeremy Gantz Rick Kaempfer Lauri Harvey Keagle Julie Dean Kessler Mark Loehrke Phil Potempa Andy Shaw Fran Smith Contributing Artists and Photographers Yvette Marie Dostatni David Mosele Gregg Rizzo Shore magazine invites readers and writers to submit ideas, comments and feedback through email at feedback@ visitshoremagazine.com or the post office at Shore Magazine, 601 W 45th St, Munster, Ind. 46321, or 1111 Glendale Blvd, Valparaiso, Ind. 46383.

shorelines listen | culture nut | shaw thoughts | motoring | the good life | a fine mess | green notes | interview

>> intro <<

An artist creator of gigantic mosaics brings Bead Town to NWI in winter

-PAT COLANDER

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

photography courtesy of GALERIA ALEGRIA

W

anger and Hanrahan met for the first time by chance at the Fat Tuesday celebration last February. Wanger’s Bead Town projects were already locally famous by then. Although Wanger arrived in New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, his project of creating works of large, publicly displayed destination pieces of art took several years to get going and longer than that to have an impact. Working with recycled beads was labor intensive, so Wanger would typically take five or six weeks on a commission “to pay the rent,” as he says, and then move on to the next job. Gradually he Stephan Wanger works on another got opportunities to work with beaded piece of art. schools and other civic groups but in 2010, he created NOLA’s Resilience. That piece was the big breakthrough for Wanger.

“I got a local actress to put on this veil and makeup and created this piece,” he says, and created a mosaic of her head, with two tombstones in the background—one for Hurricane Katrina and another for the BP Oil Spill—measuring six-by-eight feet. The artwork, which contains 200,000 beads, was unveiled five years after the hurricane and one month after the oil leak was plugged, on August 26, following a jazz funeral to the JW Marriott hotel. The anniversary event received worldwide coverage.

There were more out-of-town gigs that attracted tourists to small towns nearby like Natchitoches, like Winnsboro, Louisiana where Wanger had 10 locations for Bead Town—four in schools—that drew thousands of visitors in 2012. The following year was a triumph with 1.5 million recycled beads cut and placed by an army of volunteers to create The Paragons of New Orleans, a night skyline 8 feet high and 42 feet long, to

benefit the Arc of Greater New Orleans and the St. Michael Special School, two non-profit bead recyclers.

Wanger was born in West Germany, but moved to Chicago in 1990. He graduated with a degree in marketing and advertising from Columbia College in 1996 and worked for Mayor Daley’s Office of Special Events on projects including the Democratic National Convention that year. He ended up in New Orleans after the hurricane because he thought there would be opportunities. “I just moved down here,” he says. “I was thinking I could just pick up a hammer and build a roof. I was in my mid-30s then. I wanted to be outdoors.”

The chance to bring Bead Town to Northwest Indiana seemed logical and natural to Robert and Wanger. By the time Wanger and his crew—workers who hold workshops and help volunteers create and install Bead Town art—arrive here in December, several locations, including the Miller Arts and Creative District’s Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts, will be ready to showcase the art. The work and the fun, Hanrahan says, will get underway with the opening exhibits on January 6 and will last about six weeks.

F o r a d u l t s , t h e re are the possibilities of restaurants sponsoring maskmaking and framemaking workshops.

Schools may choose to create and auction their own mosaics of bead art. There will be one major piece specifically designed as a donation for the Methodist Foundation.

Skeptics may challenge this idea, considering the weather and the time of year in this area. Wanger is confident nonetheless. He believes in the outcome itself, he says. “It’s the art form itself. There is nothing to compare it to; it’s a collective work that makes the outreach perfect.”

11

Stephan Wanger was lately in Natchitoches, Louisiana discussing a Bead Town promotion in honor of the city’s status as the oldest city in the Louisiana Purchase.

Natchitoches was established in 1714 by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, who diplomatically named the town after a local Indian tribe. But before he gets to that project, he’s back in New Orleans, where his home and gallery (Galeria Alegria) are located in the French Quarter, talking with me and Robert Hanrahan, who is managing the promotion of Methodist Hospital Foundation’s Mardi Grasthemed fundraising efforts which culminate each year in mid-February with a masked ball. The prize for the Krewe raising the most funds for the foundation is a trip to the real Mardi Gras, which officially occurs on Tuesday, March 4th in 2014.

shorelines >> listen <<

A Supreme musical season Mary Wilson to ring in the holidays

Mary Wilson shot to fame as a founding member of powerhouse girl group The Supremes and later performed as a hit solo act. ¶ These days Wilson is still singing and serenading fans. She’ll soon bring her holiday revue highlighting the sounds of Motown to Chicago. ¶ Mary Wilson’s Holiday Spectacular featuring special guests The Four Tops hits the stage of Chicago’s Harris Theater December 23 and runs through January 5, 2014.

“I 2 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 1

’m looking forward to bringing this show to Chicago,” says Wilson, adding it’s a dream to celebrate the season in the Windy City with her Motown cohorts The Four Tops.

“I’ve been a groupie of The Four Tops,” she says, laughing.

Both Wilson and the Four Tops will perform holiday favorites as well as their classic hits.

Wilson’s playlist is sure to include signature Supremes’ tunes such as Someday We’ll Be Together, I Hear a Symphony, Stop in the Name of Love, You Can’t Hurry Love, and more. Four Tops favorites such as Bernadette, I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch, Reach Out, I’ll Be There, and others are sure to be on the musical menu as well.

During a recent press conference to talk about the holiday show, Wilson said it’s a joy to highlight the Motown songs and fellow Motown talents in the concert.

Both Wilson and Abdul “Duke” Fakir, a founding member of The Four Tops, spoke of the close bond the Motown artists had.

“There was a lot of competition at Motown and everyone was so talented but it was very positive at Motown,” Wilson says.

Adds Fakir, “It was competition in a brotherly kind of way.”

Wilson says when the Supremes traveled the world to perform they were looked upon as musical ambassadors.

“We were ambassadors in the sense of what the music did for the world,” Wilson says.

She says when the group broke up in the 1970s, she had to really think about what she would do next.

“It took me a long time, after the group disbanded, to decide to step out front. But I love what I do and didn’t want to give it up just because someone else’s dream stopped or died,” Wilson says.

The Four Tops are currently celebrating 60 years in the business and Fakir says what’s kept the group

IF YOU GO Mary Wilson’s Holiday Spectacular will run December 23 through January 5, 2014 at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets are $59.99 through $119.99. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, HarrisTheaterChicago.org or call 312.334.7777. For more information, visit marywilsonandthefourtops.com

together is love. The group is currently comprised of original member Fakir, Lawrence Payton Jr., Ronnie McNeir and Spike Bonhart.

“We love singing and love singing with each other.

We love performing. It’s all about love,” Fakir stresses.

Wilson’s Holiday Spectacular is presented by Reach Out Entertainment and Starvox Entertainment and Marketing. -ELOISE MARIE VALADEZ

>> culture nut <<

‘Gale’ Force

I

f you were to assume that one of the hottest playwrights in Chicago is being interviewed in a trendy downtown coffee house or backstage at a theater, surrounded by hip sycophants…you would be very wrong.

In fact, Rebecca Gilman is calling from her Wisconsin home, having moved to “higher ground” (upstairs) because of her sporadic cell service, laughing that “it’s nice, because we can’t get Internet, and often the phone doesn’t work.”

An Alabama native, Gilman moved to Chicago after earning her MFA at the University of Iowa, and quickly was embraced by the city’s theater community. “I was really lucky. I was able to become a resident playwright at Chicago Dramatists, and through them I got my first production at Circle Theatre out in Forest Park.”

The Goodman Theatre noticed and responded to her work, Gilman says. “They sort of took me under their wing pretty quickly. We’ve just had an ongoing relationship since then.”

Gilman is also an associate professor of playwriting and screenwriting at Northwestern University. “I always tell my students that finding the theater that responds to your work is really key. It’s sort of a personality thing; I liken it to blind dating,” she laughs. “And the Goodman’s contributions to theater are huge. They give new plays the same import as the classics; not a lot of theaters are so invested in new work.”

But underneath the grateful, easygoing personality and warm southern accent, Gilman is a serious, no-holds-barred talent, whose works often explore dark, intense themes and can be

-KATHRYN MACNEIL

LUNA GALE BY REBECCA GILMAN, DIRECTED BY ROBERT FALLS Jan 18–Feb 23, 2014 • Goodman Theatre • 170 N Dearborn, Chicago • 312.443.3800 • goodmantheatre.org

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

photography courtesy of LIZ LAUREN; [opposite page] MARY WILSON AND THE FOUR TOPS

Rebecca Gilman and Robert Falls continue to take Chicago by storm

13

Luna Gale playwright Rebecca Gilman with director Robert Falls

unapologetically controversial. Among her many accolades are multiple Joseph Jefferson awards, a nomination for the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and a spot on Time magazine’s 2010 list of the Top Ten Plays of the Decade.

Gilman’s upcoming world-premiere drama, Luna Gale, will be helmed by Goodman artistic director Robert Falls, which marks the fourth collaboration for the formidable pair. “I always feel like when I give a play to Bob, he knows what’s going to work really well—and, in sort of an annoying way, he can also find the faults really quickly,” Gilman says. “He’s able to hear my language or my dialogue in a way that’s really special. He knows what it should sound like. He’s so imaginative and creative on his own, he brings things to the text that I never would have imagined or seen. It’s never some weird, intrusive thing that he’s putting on top of it; it’s always organic.”

Luna Gale is the story of Caroline, a veteran social worker who takes on the case of two teenaged drug addicts accused of neglecting their baby. Her decision to place the infant daughter in the care of the baby’s grandmother exposes family secrets, forcing Caroline to make a risky decision with potentially disastrous consequences.

“The title is the name of the baby who’s being fought over,” Gilman explains. “To me, she represents all of the hope in the play.”

“This play was inspired by a lot of different things,” she continues. “I had seen this map of the world in which everything was labeled by stereotype, and the thing that jumped out at me was the giant Midwestern section of the United States. Instead of saying ‘Midwest,’ it said ‘meth’ and ‘Jesus.’ I kept thinking about the people in what they call the ‘flyover’ part of the country who maybe feel like they don’t matter to anybody at all, and what they turn to for solace, and I felt like it probably came down to drugs or religion for a lot of people. I also had wanted to write a play about a social worker for a really long time, so that sort of helped me put the two things together.”

Like much of Gilman’s work, the production promises to be gripping. “It’s definitely a drama,” she says, “but there’s always comedy in everything I write, I think. It has a lot of plot twists, cliffhangers, and some real maneuvering over the placement of this baby.”

But, most of all, “it’s definitely a Midwestern story,” Gilman says. “I think a lot of times we do get overlooked, so I want to emphasize that we have really great stories here.” ­­­

shorelines >> shaw thoughts <<

M

any of you know that Chicago’s most prominent political family—the Daleys—chill out in Grand Beach, Michigan, just over the Indiana border.

I’ve seen them at local eateries, art fairs, golf courses and farmer’s markets, and some of

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you may have too.

Rich, the former Chicago mayor; John, the Cook County board powerhouse; Mike, the zoning megalawyer; and Bill, the former banker, cabinet secretary, presidential campaign chairman and White House chief of staff.

Bill wanted to add governor of Illinois to his resume, so he launched a campaign earlier this year, but personal and political reality got in the way, and he dropped out in September.

There’s been a lot said and written about that decision, and its implications for the future of Illinois politics, but not from the perspective of a former Chicago political reporter who now runs an anticorruption watchdog organization that shines a light on government and holds public officials accountable.

That happens to be me so here, in my “Shaw Thoughts” capacity, is one more take: Illinois voters now have one less qualified candidate to consider as they try to decide who has the best chance to lead the state out of its fiscal and ethical quagmire.

That’s unfortunate.

But Governor Pat Quinn now has several months to focus on pulling Illinois out of that same quagmire instead of trying to survive a brutal primary fight.

And that could be good.

First, the Daley dive.

Bill, the ex-mayor’s youngest brother, certainly had the resume and the pedigree to be a

strong candidate, and perhaps a good governor.

But he didn’t have the resolve or the personality to run a strong campaign, so he bailed.

And it’s not that complicated when you break it down.

Bill was used to running things, not running for things.

His jobs all came with limos, drivers, aides and gofers. He and an inner circle of elites discussed policy and made decisions.

Political campaigns are about traveling the state to meet and greet regular people, digest rubber chicken dinners, beg for money, plot strategy and battle your opponents.

It takes a pit bull, not a plutocrat.

Daley was attracted to the challenge and prestige of the governor’s office, but temperamentally unsuited for the arduous task of getting there.

Some politicians are the opposite—better at campaigning than governing—because it suits their personalities.

Bill Clinton is a good example, at least in the undisciplined early days of his presidency. Another is Illinois’ imprisoned former governor, Rod Blagojevich.

Some put Pat Quinn in that category.

Bill Daley’s brother Rich was an awkward campaigner in his early political races, but he had two decades as mayor to improve his retail game.

Bill had two months, and it wasn’t happening.

In addition, the Daley name itself, which was always problematic in Downstate Illinois, where they resent Chicago’s political bosses, also lost its local luster in recent years as festering urban problems and the abominable parking meter deal roiled the city and tarnished Rich’s reputation.

Some of the tarnish spilled onto Bill.

Put it all together and you have a recipe for a primary election defeat.

So you get out, which Bill did.

And here we are, with a gaggle of Republicans struggling to win their primary, and Quinn

illustration by DAVID MOSELE

The Daley Dive

essentially unopposed.

Which brings us to the potential upside of Daley’s dive.

Now, without a primary opponent to worry about, Quinn can concentrate on governing a state that still can’t pay its bills, balance it’s budget, tame its pension beast or downsize its bloated bureaucracy.

Quinn would have been hardpressed to focus on those issues while he was waging a tough primary battle.

Now he has the time, and hopefully the motivation, to confront the challenges head-on, because progress will burnish his re-election credentials considerably.

And that sets up a fascinating political scenario: House Speaker Mike Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton, who don’t have much use for Quinn even though they’re all Democrats, now have a chance to improve his re-election chances by helping him solve some of the state’s vexing problems.

Or they can indirectly assist the eventual Republican challenger by thwarting Quinn and maintaining our dystopian state.

So Bill Daley may be out of the picture, but the good government challenge looms as large than ever.

And Illinois’ future depends on how the leaders who are still standing choose to play it.

That’s my take on one aspect of political season back across the lake.

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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also thought about debriefing Illinois attorney general Lisa Madigan’s decision not to run for governor, following her father’s decision not to step down as House Speaker, but their getaway is Wisconsin, so we’ll let the Badger State cover them.

The Daleys are part of our Shore Magazine family.

And so, by the way, is Chicago’s current mayor, Rahm Emanuel, who owns a house in Union Pier.

Maybe it’s time to write about him. -ANDY SHAW

shorelines Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

>> motoring <<

Unparalleled Luxury PORSCHE STILL TOP OF THE CHARTS

P

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orsche was kind enough to send along racing driver Dave Donohue to ride along and offer pointers. Donohue really let me let the Porsche fly coaxing me to apply full throttle much sooner than I would have expected while rounding a corner. Yet the Carrera 4S stayed glued to the track. In an unanticipated traction experiment, this past spring’s track day was held in the rain. Speeds were lower, but the car never gave even a hint breaking loose. Donohue suggested letting the PDK transmission do the work of selecting the proper gear to be in. This automatically-operating transmission is a bone of contention with some Porsche purists, but its lightning fast shifting made a believer out of me. Unfortunately, it has probably made a traditional manual gearbox obsolete in a performance scenario.

It was pleasant surprise to receive the same stunning Aqua Blue Metallic 911 for a week loan. So how did this track-bred beast fare in a week of the daily grind that is Chicagoland traffic? Certainly its performance potential cannot be realized in the urban landscape. You might get an inkling in a quick highway pass. The ride is very firm, as you would expect.

However while it does jostle you, it does not take bumps harshly. The steering and brakes respond so quickly, it’s like the car is an extension of your body. That is not to say creature comforts are ignored; options on the tester increased the sticker price by nearly half.

The two-tone Agate and Pebble Grey leather interior was beautifully crafted, and it was refreshing to see a steering wheel not cluttered up with a gang of buttons. Instrumentation is race inspired, with the largest gauge being a centrally mounted tachometer, the smallish speedometer to the left is a little hard to read but a digital speed display helps in that regard. Even the fine-looking analog clock on top of the dash makes its “big hand” the second hand, and has stopwatch capabilities.

The heavily bolstered seats felt snug at first, but I soon found them extremely comfortable and supportive. Also, it had some of the most effective seat cooling of any car I’ve driven. It felt surprisingly roomy inside, and as long as you aren’t trying to put anybody in the vestigial back seat there is a lot of seat travel to work with.

Visibility is not bad at a distance, though parking might be a bit of a trick without the park assist system. It displays radar from each corner on the center screen. It worked well without the audible warnings getting too overzealous, though it did get confused in my single garage doorway. I couldn’t pull in or back up the modestly angled apron to my garage in a straight shot, lest the front of the car scrape since it is so low. Interestingly, while you have to step over a rather thick sill to get in and out, it means the doors are cut high and clear most curbs. While the 911 Carrera 4S wouldn’t be my first choice for a daily driver where we live, putting up with a little harshness is worth the exciting drive it can deliver. -ANDY MIKONIS

photography courtesy of PORSCHE; [opposite page] MERCEDES

We’ll say goodbye to the 2013 model year in style with one of the most recognizable automobile shapes, the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. The Carrera 4S features all-wheel drive, the grip of which I’ve been able to get a taste of while turning some track laps during the last two years at the Midwest Automotive Association Spring Rally at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.

Get the scoop on what’s up at the lakefront delivered to your in-box 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz improves E-Class for 2014

latest events, news, party gossip, updated blogs and special invites.

Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter, shorelines.

You’ll automatically be entered into our shorewards program which gives our newsletter subscribers chances to win prizes.

17

at visitshoremagazine.com

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Model year 2014 sees a major overhaul of the MercedesBenz E-Class sedans, wagons, coupes, and convertibles.

Sport models get a completely new front end, with aggressive styling and a bold three-pointed star in the grille. Luxury models get a more evolutionary facelift.

The four-cylinder Diesel is now the base engine, and while it used to be a $1,500 premium over the gas V-6, it is now priced $500 less, effectively lowering the E-Class base price by $2,000 from 2013. And what a great engine it is. It idles dead smooth, and is almost silent. With peak torque coming on at 1800 rpm it feels very lively in passing maneuvers and accelerating out of turns. In a 164-mile route of mixed, mostly highway driving around Portland, Oregon we averaged an indicated 38.6 mpg, and this is in an E250 BlueTEC Sedan with 4MATIC allwheel drive, which is available with a diesel for the first time. At one period of time, it registered over 41 mpg for several miles.

Mercedes-Benz has been rolling out a host of high tech interactive safety features under the name Intelligent Drive. The 2014 E-Class gets some new ones added to the $2,800 Driver Assistance Package. Some of the highlights include active lane keeping assist, which was an odd sensation. It will actually steer the car the car around a curve for a while, but that’s not its intention. It functions to offer subtle steering inputs if it detects the driver crossing out of the lane. Taking it to the next level, the Distronic Plus cruise control already could modulate speed to keep to a preset distance to the vehicle ahead, but now with an array of radar units and a stereoscopic camera, you can use cruise control in stop-and-go traffic, and it will even keep the vehicle in the lane. This is more intervention than I personally care for, but it’s a fascinating technological achievement.

Between the body styles and engines there are fifteen variations of the E-Class. For a different flavor, I sampled the E550 Cabriolet for a scenic drive out to the Pacific coast the next day. The Coupe and Cabriolet see most of the same 2014 updates with the visual exception of retaining the curved “pontoon” character line in front of the rear wheel, which has been smoothed out on the sedans and wagons. With 402 horsepower this drop top can really get some wind going through your hair. The E-Class has always felt like the perfect size Mercedes to me, and the 2014 improvements make a great car even better. -ANDY MIKONIS

shorelines Dorado Beach’s crescent-shaped beach

Spa Botanico’s Shade House

Positivo Sand Bar

>> the good life <<

Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton Reserve

There are currently only two Ritz-Carlton Reserves in the entire world, Phulay Bay in Thailand and Dorado Beach in Puerto Rico. Future locations include Los Cabos, Mexico; Muscat, Oman; Tamuda Bay, Morocco and West Caicos, Turks and Caicos. Dorado Beach introduces an exquisite five-star haven unrivaled in the Caribbean. Rates starting at $859 per night.

THE LOCATION Dorado Beach sits on a 50-acre tropical oasis originally developed by Laurance S. Rockefeller. It’s a forty-minute taxi ride from the bustling city life of San Juan, but upon setting foot on its pristine refuge, you might as well be on your own private island. Stroll along its private mile-long beach lined with swaying palm trees or grab a complimentary mountain bike and take a leisurely ride along the 11-mile trail that weaves through Dorado Beach’s private residences, golf course and in-land sanctuary of abundant trees, vegetation and exotic birds.

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THE GUEST ROOM Even the most consummate Ritz-Carlton guest will fawn over the discriminating amenities planted in each of the 115 guest rooms, suites and villa. Let’s forget the expected amenities: plush bed and linens, large flat screen televisions and a view of the blue ocean and white sand beach. The Dorado Beach room

excels in the unexpected such as a the “disappearing” floor-to-ceiling glass doors that brings the scenic setting indoors, ultra-spacious interior that is more than double a standard luxury resort room and your own plunge pool. In need of more pampering? Just summon your personal butler and he will make sure that your needs are met immediately.

THE BATHROOM Heavenly is not a sufficient word to describe the splendor of your Dorado Beach bathroom—inside and outside rainforest showers, Spa Botanico toiletries and a built-in iPod/iPhone docking station with ceiling mounted speakers. For the most idyllic indulgence, pop a bottle of Laurent Perrier champagne, nestle in your hot, foamy bath in the indoor deep soaking tub and allow Ottmar Liebert serenade you to a relaxing coma.

THE RESORT AMENITIES While there are ample activities such as watersports, hiking and golfing, Dorado Beach’s best amenity is simply to physically unwind in its world class, 5-acre Spa Botanico, arguably one of the best spas in the world, or take a late afternoon nap in one of the tranquil pool cabanas.

Spending an entire day in the spa is a temptation worth giving into. There are tree house treatment pavilions, outdoor tubs hidden beneath tropical gardens, pull down bucket showers and an enchanting plantation garden.

Blueberry Pancake at Mi Casa

THE RESTAURANTS Mi Casa by Jose Andres is the Spanish celebrity chef’s culinary showcase in the Caribbean. Lavish in a bountiful plate of Iberico ham, crispy duck breast and Mi Casa’s signature flan. For a setting by the water, there is the Positivo Sand Bar for sumptuous salads and creative cocktails or the Encanto restaurant for Asian inspired tacos. For the foodie, sign up for cooking classes at the La Cocina Gourmet for a terrific hands-on dining experience.

THE CONSENSUS Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, may be the closest exotic destination to the mainland US without crossing the Pacific or Atlantic. It is the most ideal journey for those able to afford a discerning escape from our unavoidable lives filled with many distractions.

For more information on Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, call 787.626.1100 or visit ritzcarlton.com -GEORGE AQUINO

photography by GEORGE AQUINO

THE BASICS Puerto Rico boasts a number of first class resorts on the island; most of which are located in San Juan. Dorado Beach stands out because it adds an exclamation point to “rest and relaxation,” combining the azure waters of the Caribbean in the foreground with a lush tropical forest setting in the background. Every luxurious detail, from your garden showers to your private plunge pool, is elevated to newer heights.

Check off your list,

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shorelines >> a fine mess <<

The Road to Dubrovnik, an adventure for the middle ages When my buddies suggested that we go on a European vacation together (just the guys) to celebrate our 50th birthdays, I figured my wife would quickly put the kibosh on the idea. • “You should go,” she said. “That way I don’t have to throw you a party.” • Really? Clearance from the tower? In an unbelievably unlikely turn of events, my friends Bill and Stu also got clearance from their respective towers. Before our wives had a chance to change their minds, we made our plans.

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display. “And we thought the plane tickets to Croatia were high.”

We finally found a less outrageously priced hotel (because it was nowhere near Munich’s old town),

illustration by DAVID MOSELE

G

ranted, the planning was minimal at best.

We picked an eventual destination (Bill chose Croatia), got the cheapest flight possible to anywhere in Europe (Stu got us standby tickets to Munich), and that was it. The plan was to just wing it. This was going to be a true adventure, just like our younger days.

We landed in Munich with no real idea of how to get to Croatia. We considered taking a train down to Italy, then crossing the Adriatic by ferry. That sounded like a lot of fun. Unfortunately, the ferries didn’t run the day we needed them, so that plan was discarded. We looked into taking a train directly to Croatia, but it turned out that Munich was further away than we thought. It would have taken us two full days to get there.

So, we pursued an even more daring adventure.

We walked up to the counter at the Lufthansa desk and asked if we could buy airline tickets to Croatia.

“Und ven vould you like to depart,” the unsmiling lady asked us.

We looked at each other. “How about tomorrow?” I said.

“Tomorrow?” she responded. “This is wery short notice. Your fares vill be quite high.”

“How high?”

Let’s just say that she wasn’t exaggerating. We gulped and bought the tickets anyway. So much for saving money by flying standby.

Now we needed to get a hotel room. Stu looked up hotel rooms on his iPad. “Whoa,” Bill said when Stu showed him the

and dropped off our stuff. We wanted to take a nap more than anything, but Stu (an airline pilot) insisted that the only way to beat the jet lag was to “power through.” So we did.

It took us almost two hours to make it to downtown Munich. It just happened to be the day of the GermanyAustria soccer match, and the old town area was flooded with Austrians singing and chanting as they spilled out of the many fine beer gardens. Needless to say, we sampled a giant mug of the nectar ourselves, only to discover that having a beer when you’re jetlagged, is somewhat similar to being punched in the face.

We were asleep by 8 p.m.

The next morning at the airport we decided to be slightly less adventurous, and searched for hotels in Dubrovnik in advance.

“Uh oh,” Stu said, as he looked through the choices.

“Dubrovnik is even more expensive than Munich. And it looks like there isn’t a hotel room available anywhere. There’s one two-bedroom apartment listed, but this price can’t possibly be right.”

It was dirt cheap--about as much for five nights as our crappy Munich hotel cost for one.

“I don’t know,” Bill said, radar beeping. “That sounds a little scary to me.”

“C’mon guys,” Stu said. “We’re wingin’ it, right? It’s an adventure.”

I suspect his optimism was somewhat influenced by the fact that we had already paid for a non-refundable airline ticket, would be landing in Dubrovnik by night time, and literally had nowhere else to stay.

We were picked up at the airport by a giant man named Nikolei. He had a shaved head, biceps the size of fire hydrants, and spoke with a deep Slavic accent. When Bill asked how far away from the old town of Dubrovnik we were, we got an idea of what kind of week was in store for us.

“Not far,” Nikolei said. “45 minute walk.”

In other words, we weren’t anywhere near it. In fact, we were at the very highest point of the city, and the old town was at the very lowest point. Walking down was no big deal, but walking up was potentially life-threatening for this outof-shape 50-year-old. Also, the apartment had nothing in it, really. No television, no Internet, no nothing. There was no reason to stay there at all.

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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o we didn’t. We left every morning, and didn’t return until bedtime. We explored the area, hit the beach, walked around the old town, took excursions to nearby islands and countries, ate incredible food for every meal, and spent more quality time together than we had in twenty years. We laughed, we argued, we taunted, we teased, we relived old memories, and we cured the world’s problems.

In short, it was exactly what we were looking for—an adventure. And we created something that will really come in handy for our next trip.

New memories.

Of course, by the time we can do this again, there’s no guarantee that we’ll remember them. -RICK KAEMPFER

>> green notes <<

Lake Michigan shipwreck preservation ROMANCE, HISTORY AND BAD LUCK Of death these jolly lads Never once did dream Bravehearts sailed under canvas Bravehearts sailed in the steam Lost on Lake Michigan They failed to reach the shore The gallant ship and crew Will sail the lake no more.

—AUTHOR UNKNOWN

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isitors to Indiana’s latest nature preserve will have to work a little harder than most sight-seers to take in the attraction.

Last fall, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources dedicated the J.D. Marshall Preserve, a Lake Michigan shipwreck site due north of the pavilion at the Indiana Dunes State Park beach in Chesterton.

Under state law, nature preserves may also be created to preserve cultural history.

“Not only is it a piece of history, but it

is a piece of our cultural history,” Mike Molnar, director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ Lake Michigan Coastal Program, says.

Dan Bortner, director of Indiana State Parks and Reserves, said at the dedication ceremony in September, the site will be used to preserve and teach about the maritime history on Indiana’s portion of the Lake Michigan shoreline, “in a way that’s never been done before.”

The J.D. Marshall was built in 1891 in South Haven, Mich., and converted from a timber hauler to a sand barge in 1910 after its sister ship, the Muskegon, burned and sank near Mount Baldy in Michigan City.

On June 11, 1911, the J.D. Marshall was taking on water. A storm blew up and the ship capsized, trapping three crew members beneath it and killing them along with one other crew member.

Mate Martin Donahue, Fireman Gus Jake, Assistant Engineer Charles Langeman and Seaman John Wisemann died in the shipwreck.

The wreckage was discovered

A map shows the location of the J.D. Marshall shipwreck off the shoreline of the Indiana Dunes State Park.

in 1970 by an early explorer of Lake Michigan shipwrecks. The ship was raised in 1982 by salvage crews from Michigan who planned to sell it for scrap. The crew was stopped by conservation police, but not until after the propeller and other pieces had already been removed.

As conservation officers from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources were investigating the scrapping operation, the lines holding the ship broke, sending it plunging back into Lake Michigan.

The rudder and deck were recovered and have been preserved in Michigan City.

The propeller is on display outside the pavilion at Indiana Dunes State Park.

Indiana Dunes State Park staff developed the program “Tragedy Beneath The Waves” and are using it to tell the story of the J.D. Marshall. Plans are also underway for the site to be added to the Duneland Chamber of Commerce’s Beyond the Beach Trail.

The 100-acre preserve will be open for diving and fishing beginning this spring, but precautions will be in place to try to prevent treasure-hunters from removing items from the wreckage and to keep boat anchors from damaging it.

Molnar says he was proud to finally get the preserve approved.

“Three times in the last 30 years, when management plans were made, nothing was done,” Molnar says. “They just sat on the shelf.” -LAURI HARVEY KEAGLE

photography by [top left] JON L. HENDRICKS, [middle] JOHN J. WATKINS, [right] JON L. HENDRICKS, [bottom] INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK; [opposite page] JEREMY LAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY

shorelines

How do you fit a myth about identical twins which dates back millenniums to 21st century Kindle County? The two identical twins, Paul and Cass, are now approaching 50 years old. Paul is running for mayor and his brother Cass has just been released from prison for murdering his girlfriend, Dita Kronon a quarter of a century ago. Dita’s brother Hal accuses Paul of also being involved with her murder. His accusations give Paul no other choice but to sue him for libel which begins a very complicated court case as well as reopens the investigation of this 25 year old murder case.

Paul’s accuser is a billionaire with extreme right-wing ideas and endless piles of cash that he’s willing to use to broadcast his accusations. Is there a political message here as well? It’s not that I think novels are necessarily the right place to send a political message, but there is here a meditation on campaign financing. It’s very aggravating.

Though the current state of politics being awashed in special interest money, not all the politicians in Identical are corrupt.

Many Americans don’t necessarily consider their political leaders as being good. I wanted to write a novel about a politician who really is a good and decent person.

’Identical’

Scott Turow’s latest mystery blends ancient and new

I’m sure you’ve been asked this a million times, but you’re a very successful attorney who does a lot of pro bono work as well as a bestselling author. Is one better than the other, even by increments? Being an attorney has given me opportunities that I never could have had as an author.

For example, I wouldn’t have been able to have the impact on capital punishment in Illinois as I had as a lawyer. Writing totally involves using your entire soul and psyche and personality. It’s not always easy, but when your feel that it’s going well, it’s wonderful. Beyond that, I believe in plot.

The boundaries of an intricate plot inspire my imagination. Besides, what could be better than spending the day with your imaginary friends? -JANE AMMESON

WHEN: Friday, December 6, 4 to 6 pm WHERE: North Shore Senior Center, 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, Ill. COST: $50 per person, per day (Ages 18 and under are admitted for free.) Weekend Pass: $125 per person for all three days. All proceeds benefit North Shore Senior Center and its support services for older adults.

FYI: For reservations, contact Mary Margaret Parker at mparker@nssc.org or 847.784.6050. For more information about the event, nssc.org

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

In his latest mystery, Chicago attorney Scott Turow takes us back to Kindle County, the setting of his first book Presumed Innocent, published in 1987.

An immediate hit, the book spent 45 weeks on best sellers’ list, selling more than 6 million paperback copies. It also created a new genre of fiction—the legal thriller. In his ninth novel, Identical (Grand Central 2013), Turow uses the Greek myth of Zeus son’s, the twins, Castor and Pollux, as a frame to tell the modern day story of two other identical twins—Paul and Cass Giannis—at a pivotal time of their lives. Turow, who is currently on a hectic book tour, took time to talk to Shore about Identical.

Your books always have so many layers, so much going on and so many twists and turns. How do you keep track of all the plot lines? For me, that’s an important part of the early stages of writing a book—attempting to keep it correct and connected.

23

>> interview <<

I read that there is a more personal side of why you chose to use the theme of twins in Identical.

I’ve always wanted to write about twins.

My younger sister was supposed to be a twin but my brother was stillborn. My dad delivered babies as a profession so at IF YOU GO the age of three, when this happened, I WHAT: The Art couldn’t comprehend why other babies of Storytelling, lived and came home but not my brother Storytelling through and at the same time it also seemed Art: North Shore threatening to me. Illogically, I came Senior Center Book up with the idea my brother wasn’t my Fest, a three-day sister’s twin, but was mine. literary event.

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FRANCISCAN NORTHERN INDIANA REGION GALA, CHICAGO BLACK TIE BINGO, VALPARAISO MASQUERADE OF LOVE, CHICAGO TASTE OF CARE, MERRILLVILLE KREWE APOLLO BENEFIT, VALPARAISO ALBERT’S 10TH ANNUAL MS AUCTION, HAMMOND MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY’S COLUMBIAN BALL, CHICAGO CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE, MERRILLVILLE 3ARTS AWARDS, CHICAGO

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under the stars franciscan northern indiana region gala chicago

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photography by gregg rizzo

The Northern Indiana Region Gala is the Franciscan Alliance’s largest annual event. This year’s event was held at Navy Pier, where guests enjoyed entertainment and fine dining.

1 Jessica Hamm of Lowell, Sandra Mueller of Valparaiso with Linda Loitz of Lowell

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2 Linda Fletcher and Alan Carl of Schererville 3 Michellene Arder and Mike Higgins of Kouts 4 Maria Trevino of Munster, Alex Stemer of Chesterton, Elliott Stokar of Chicago and Diane Papageorge of Munster 5 Jim and Miki McClain of Crown Point 6 Joe and Cindy Beckman of Grand Beach 7 Tonia Schick with MaryBeth Rivera, both of Schererville

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8 Ena Fazlic of Crown Point, Lisa Stevens of Schererville with Beth Grbavac of Chicago 9 Tammy Reese with Colleen Lannon, both of Hammond

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10 Dan and Vicky Klein of Crown Point 11 Mary and Gene Diamond of Palos Park WANT MORE? please go to visitshoremagazine.com to view and purchase click photos

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dots and squares black tie bingo | valparaiso

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photography by gregg rizzo

1 Lindsey Shira of Valparaiso, Debbi Reynolds of Portage and Nicky Jackson of Chesterton 2 Jessica and Brian McFadden of Valparaiso

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3 Kenneth and Joy Anderson of Schererville 4 Marilyn and Andrew Kos of Hammond

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5 Alyssa Maganotti of Crown Point and Katy Maganotti of Valparaiso

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Black Tie Bingo was held on October 19th at the Strongbow inn in Valparaiso.

The event was held to benefit the The Caring Place womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shelter and all proceeds went to the shelter.

6 Joe and Margy Boyce of Valparaiso

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glitz and glamour masquerade of love | chicago

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photography by charles osgood and paul crisanti

1 Joyce Selander, Irene Michaels and Nancy Rosene 2 Candice Caluya Czosnyka and Jyl Bonaguro 3 Inese Driehaus, Duffie Adelson and George Lepauw

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4 Paula and Tim Friedman 5 Suzanne Johnson, Conrad Miczko and Joanne Brooks

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6 Angela and Abe Thompson 7 Arica Hilton and Sven Asmus

The International Beethoven Project (IBP) welcomed over 250 guests, including Honorary Chairman Richard H. Driehaus and Inese Driehaus, for its Masquerade of LOVEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the opening night ball for Beethoven Festival: LOVE 2013.

Held at the Merit School of Music.

The event grossed more than $12,500 in support.

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honoring vets

beads and wine

photography by stephen lesniewski

photography by gregg rizzo

taste of care | merrillville

The Taste of Care benefit for Honor Flight Chicago was held at Avalon Manor Banquet Hall in Merrillville on September 26.

Honor Flight Chicago works to help send local WWII veterans to Washington D.C. for a day of celebration.

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krewe apollo benefit | valparaiso

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1 Jim Nolans of Lake County with Jay Shuttz, a WWII reenactor 2 Frances (US Army) and Monroe, (US Navy) Smith

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The Krewe Apollo fundraiser for Methodist Hospital was held at the home of Scott Fech and Rick Soria in Valparaiso on September 14. Krewe Apollo is dedicated to Methodist Hospitals Heart Institute and Cardiac Care; symbolizing light and the sun, truth and prophecy, healing, music and poetry.

1 Scott Fech and Rick Soria of Valparaiso 2 Gary Miller of Highland with Maria Diaz of Merrillville

3 Carmella and Edward Ryan (US Army)

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4 Back: Gene Hanyzewski, Sr., Paul Doherty, John Marias Front: Guelda and Fred Kloosters

3 Lisa Mueller of Hammond with Cora Posak of Hobart

5 Joe Bomersback (US Navy) and Ves Schweitzer (US Army)

4 Rob Hanrahan of Highland with Janice and Henry Blake of Schererville

6 Peter Chang, Army, and Michael Giba (USMC)

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6 Valerie and Bob Zemaitis of Kouts

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5 Jennifer and Tim Richardson of Hobart

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luxury for a cure albertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th annual MS auction hammond photography by gregg rizzo

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Albertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th annual MS auction was held at the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority Indiana Welcome Center.

Proceeds from the auction went to the MS Society of Indiana.

1 Sandy Duda of Dyer with Josh Halpern of Munster 2 Tim Merkle of Chicago with Mary Camarena of Crown Point 3 Kathy Uthenwoldt of Crown Point with Shelley Cummings of Schererville

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4 Renee Miller of Chicago, Belinda Chavez of Griffith and Meloney Prentice of Merrillville

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5 Kimberly Krieth of Crown Point and Brian Pirl of Hebron 6 Shelley and Scott Holman of Valparaiso with Sara Brown of Oak Forest

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8 Christine and Michael Stribiak of Whiting

10 Linda Haughee with Carol Auksel, both of Highland

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

9 Bethany Randolph of Chesterton with Rik Piszczek of Portage

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7 Denise Miller of Valparaiso with Danielle Nudo of Chesterton

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night at the museum

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museum of science and industry’s columbian ball chicago photography by yvette marie dostatni

Nearly 900 guests from Chicago’s attended the 33rd Annual Columbian Ball on October 19, 2013, co-chaired by Amy and Chris Crane and Anna and Bob Livingston. For the first time in five years, the ball was held inside the Museum of Science and Industry. Celebrating the MSI’s 80th anniversary, the event raised about $2.1 million.

1 Mary Chupka of Delvan Lake, Wis., Mark and Lisa Rogers of Chicago

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2 Cedric Thurman and Mary Krinock

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3 Greg and C­arrie Bodak of Belvidere 4 Carrie Anderson of Lisle, Ava Youngblood of Chicago, Sandy Arkell of Hinsdale with Lucia Annunzio of Chicago 5 Bob Livingston and Anna Livingston of Chicago 6 Dawn and Dave Zimner of Glen Ellyn 7 Chris and Amy Crane of St. Charles

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8 Don and Allyson Laackman of Chicago, Andrea Ingram with John Kosirog both of Highland Park 9 Karen and Bob Anderson of Hinsdale 10 John and Rita Canning with Jim and Marianne Stanke of Elmhurst

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aerial event

evening of arts

photography by gregg rizzo

photography by tony v. martin

cirque de la symphonie | merrillville

1 Scott and Irene King of Gary

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1 Vershawn and Ray Ward

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2 Mark Becker, Marcus Boggs and Jeff Kljajich

2 Ethan Avina of Renssaeler with Jennifer Gifford of South Bend

3 Mica Cole from Ashland, Oregon with Jr. Stanley and Julia Perkins of Chicago

3 John Mallett and Arcie Venegas of Merrillville 4 Jackie Wickland with Peggy and Steve Chovaniec, all of Munster

The 3Arts awards honored several artists who received the $15,000 award and became eligible for a network of support designed to help them build momentum in their work over time. The award is the first step and the foundation for ongoing project support, residency fellowships, promotion, and informal and formal professional development.

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4 Benjamin Wardell, Wayne Reinwald, Jordan Reinwald, Michel Rodriguez and Jennifer Martin

5 William and Pamela Lowe with David Malik, all of Crown Point

5 Aaron Swanton and Cauleen Smith

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6 Thea Polancic of Chicago and Enki Andrews from Brooklyn, New York

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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Cirque de la Symphonieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening night was held on September 20, 2013, at the Radisson Star Plaza in Merrillville. Guests enjoyed a festive evening that included dinner at the Celebrity Ballroom and an exclusive champagne and dessert reception post-concert with Maestro Muspratt, orchestra members and the guest artist at the Star Plaza Theatre.

3arts awards | chicago

essential events HAPPENINGS 30

EXHIBITIONS 31

PERFORMANCE 32

Through Jan 5 ‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’ COMES HOME

Indiana Welcome Center 7770 Corinne Dr, Hammond 800.255.5253 southshorecva.com/achristmasstory Each year visitors come to the Indiana Welcome Center to view the six animatronic window displays from Macy’s Department Store in New York featuring different scenes from A Christmas Story. A variety of events and activities also pay homage to this holiday classic in its 30th year.

CALENDAR COMPILED

BY ASHLEY BOYER

happenings Indiana

Ongoing First Friday Art Walk, 5-8pm, 1st Fri of each month, Uptown Arts District, Michigan City.

219.331.5517. uptownartsdistrict.org. The Uptown Arts District stores, galleries and venues come alive the first Friday of every month for an evening of culture, art and networking. Various locations throughout the district feature works of arts by local artists, refreshments, entertainment and more.

Nov 28 2013 Valparaiso Turkey Trot, 8am 10K start; 8:10am 5K start, 2727 N Campbell St, Valparaiso. porterstarke.org/turkeytrot. Since 2003, runners, walkers, supporters and volunteers alike have joined together Thanksgiving morning for this annual 10K run and 5K walk/run, hosted by Porter-Starke Services. The race travels through the streets of Valparaiso, features a costume contest and benefits the mental health and wellness programs and resources in Northwest Indiana.

Nov 30 Winter Market, 11am-4pm, Old Lake County Courthouse, 1 N Courthouse Sq, Crown Point. 219.662.3290. crownpoint.in.gov. Holiday crafts, custom gift baskets, jewelry, homemade items, baked goods, seasonal coffees, Christmas trees and more are available for sale at this hometown event.

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Dec 1 Holiday Festival Vendor & Craft Event, 10am-4pm, Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, 800 E 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.741.0435. anne-marieprince. com. Attendees can browse the wares of more than 70 upscale vendors, crafters and direct sellers. The first 100 shoppers will receive free gift bags and the afternoon features entertainment, a cash bar and concession and raffle baskets. Proceeds benefit the Fair Haven Center for Women.

Dec 7 Mistletoe Market, 9am-3pm, Westchester Intermediate School, 1050 S 5th St, Chesterton.

219.926.5513. chestertoneuropeanmarket.com.

Chesterton European Market dresses up for the holidays with many of the merchants, artists and chefs from the summer market. This extraordinary shopping experience provides the perfect opportunity to gather together and browse market goodies for holiday gifting, listen to festive holiday music and take photos with Santa.

Dec 7 On Your Marks . . . A 24-Hour Theatre Festival, 7:30pm, Mainstreet Theatre, 807 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.874.4269. festivalplayesrguild.org. For one night only, audience can witness eight new short plays written, rehearsed and performed by The Festival Players Guild within a 24-hour period. This family-friendly event is a thrill ride for audience members and participants alike.

Dec 14 Pop Up Art Event, 5-9pm, Lake St, Gary.

219.951.9393. millerbeacharts.org. Since 2011, this popular event has drawn more than 75 local artists and more than 1200 visitors. Artists can display their work in empty storefronts in Miller Beach’s Arts and Creative District at no charge.

Dec 14-15 Shipshewana on the Road, 9am6pm, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 269.979.8888. shipshewanaontheroad. com. For two days only, this popular outdoor market stops in Valparaiso with products and merchandise from artisans, crafters, flea market dealers and retail business owners—including finished and unfinished pine furniture, handmade crafts, toys, home décor, handmade jewelry, clothing and more.

Dec 24 Christmas Eve Shopping Stroll, 1011am, Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton. 219.926.1952. in.gov. This one-hour walk lead by naturalists explores the winter life and beauty of the dunes and culminates in a warm fire and hot cocoa in the Wilson Shelter.

Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Bash 2013, 8pm, Radisson at Star Plaza, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville.

219.769.6600. starplazatheatre.com. Guests to this popular event can choose to usher in 2014 at one of three parties (or all three)—a high-energy dance party headlined by DJ Navic and DJ Gordo, a tropical party in the atrium with music from Bravo Johnny or a pub party at T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub featuring music by Angelo Cicco and The Unit.

The night features a comedy shows at Star Plaza Theatre and Wisecrackers Comedy Club. All-inclusive overnight packages are available.

Jan 11 Winter…Wine…Wonderland 2014, Serenity Springs, 5888 US 35, LaPorte. 219.861.000. serenity-springs.com. This magical evening of wine, dining and fun features tastings of a variety of wines in front of a roaring fire, Southern Italian cuisine and live entertainment.

Jan 24-26 Winterfest, 3-5pm, downtown LaPorte.

219.331.5517. cityoflaporte.com. Live ice sculptures kick off this yearly event as artists craft unique works of art right on the streets of downtown LaPorte.

Family-friendly winter fun abounds throughout the weekend.

Feb 21 Dunes History Series—Focus on Maple Sugaring, 5pm Fri-4pm Sat, Dunes Learning Center, 700 Howe Rd, Chesterton. 219.395.9555. duneslearningcenter.org. Participants at this sweet retreat-style workshop can immerse themselves in the local traditions of maple sugaring—from the Native American origins to modern day techniques.

Appropriate for all ages, this overnight workshop covers the history and science of maple sugaring and participants have the opportunity to assist in tapping male trees and enjoy a variety of foods prepared from the sap.

Michigan

Through Dec 8 27th Annual Mistletoe Market, South Haven Center for the Arts, 600 Phoenix St, South Haven. 269.637.1041. southhavenarts.org.

photo by JOHN LUKE

The information presented in Essential Events is accurate as of press time, but readers are encouraged to call ahead to verify the dates and times.

Please note that Illinois and most Indiana events adhere to central time, and Michigan events are eastern time.

Through Apr 26 Indoor Farm Market, 11am-3pm Sat, Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle St, South Haven. 269.543.4658. southhaven. org. The South Haven Farmers’ Market moves indoors for the winter with freshly picked produce, baked goods and handmade items.

Nov 28 6th Annual Traverse City Turkey Trot, 9am, downtown Traverse City. 231.947.1120. traversecity.com.

Participants can start the holiday off with a 5K or 5-mile run/walk for the entire family. The flat course meanders through the streets of downtown Traverse City and racers can be home by lunchtime.

Dec 5 Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World Gala, 7pm, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, NE, Grand Rapids.

888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. An enchanted evening awaits guests to this celebrated gala, which features horsedrawn carriage rides through Sculpture Park, dancing under the Chihuly chandelier, a strolling dinner and roaming holiday entertainment. Dazzling trees and displays representing cultural traditions from around the world provide a truly spectacular background for this annual event.

Dec 6 Live Mannequins! 7-8:30pm, downtown St. Joseph. 269.985.1111. sjtoday.org. The businesses of downtown St. Joseph get into the holiday spirit as the storefronts and windows come alive with volunteers from the community posing perfectly still like mannequins at this free event.

Dec 7 Giggle & Mingle with Santa Claus, 1-4pm, Round Barn Winery, 10983 Hills Rd, Baroda. 800.716.9463. roundbarnwinery.com. Round Barn Winery asks the community to help make Christmas wishes come true for needy area children by bringing a new, unwrapped toy as admission for this event. Adults can sip on seasonal cheer and shop Round Barn’s extensive product line for the perfect gift, while kids can meet and have a free photo taken with the man in red, make ornaments and paper snowflakes, and decorate holiday cookies.

Dec 7 Reindog Parade, 4pm, downtown St. Joseph. 269.985.1111. sjtoday.org.

Dressed-up pets and owners strut their stuff at this annual holiday parade, which also features Santa’s arrival downtown.

With creative holiday costumes such as Santa Bernards and Reindeer Rottweilers, this is a must-see event.

Jan 31 2nd Annual Chili Tour, 5-8pm, downtown St. Joseph. 269.985.1111. sjtoday.org. A Chili Tour map guides guests to participating downtown merchants to try a variety of chili recipes. Tasters can vote on their favorite and help award the traveling Chili Tour trophy.

Jan 31-Feb 2 Ice Breaker 2014, downtown South Haven. southhaven.org.

Now in its 21st year, this annual festival

in a vivid holiday light display featuring more than two million lights. Visitors are sure to enjoy the new ice skating at the zoo, animal encounters, holiday-themed activities, photos with Santa, ice carving demonstrations and warm drinks during this free family-friendly event.

Feb 1-2 Winter Fest, 10am-10pm, downtown New Buffalo. newbuffalo.org.

New Buffalo celebrates winter with free sleigh rides through town, ice skating, ice carving demonstrations and more.

Dec 6-9 One of a Kind Show and Sale, 11am-8pm Thu-Fri, 10am-7pm Sat, 10am-5pm Sun, The Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago.

800.677.6728. oneofakindshowchicago. com. At Chicago’s most exciting holiday shopping show and fine art and craft festival more than 600 talented artists from across the country display their homemade creations—including unique paintings, sculptures, glass works, photography, ceramics, jewelry, furniture and wearable art—for sale. Shoppers can find a oneof-kind gift for everyone on their list and enjoy gourmet cafés, fashion shows and live music.

Feb 6-9 Michigan International Auto Show, 3-10pm Thu, 11am-10pm Fri, 10am-10pm Sat, 10am-6pm Sun, DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids.

616.447.2860. showspan.com. This popular show features more than 300 new vehicles and soon-to-be-released models by car manufacturers from around the world.

Feb 7-9 Magical Ice Fest, 269.985.1111. sjtoday.org. This weekend of winter fun includes individual and team ice carving competitions, the return of Ice Wars and the SnowBiz Scavenger Hunt.

Illinois

ONGOING Chicago French Market, 7am-7:30pm Mon-Fri, 8:30am-5:30pm Sat, 131 N Clinton, Chicago. 312.575.0306. frenchmarketchicago.com. More than 7,000 people per day visit Chicago’s first and only year-round indoor marketplace for fresh ingredients for cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options for every meal, meaningful gift items and more from local vendors. Also, through Dec 20: Marché de Noël.

Through Mar 9 McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, noon-8pm Mon-Thu, noon-10pm Fri, 10am-10pm Sat (through Jan 4), 10am9pm Sat (beginning Jan 11), 10am-9pm Sun, Millennium Park, Michigan Ave & Washington St, Chicago. 312.742.1168. millenniumpark.org. Situated amidst the twinkling lights of the city, this rink draws more than 100,000 skaters annually and is free and open to the public.

Nov 26-Dec 24 Christkindlmarket Chicago, 11am-8pm Sun-Thu, 11am-9pm Fri-Sat, Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago. christkindlmarket.com. Once a year, downtown Chicago transforms into a European holiday village filled with twinkling lights and candy candy-striped wooden huts filled with one-of-a-kind offerings. More than 55 vendors have a variety of offerings with holiday ornaments of all colors, materials and sizes; nutcrackers; cuckoo-clocks; beer steins; wooden toys; jewelry; wood carvings and European sweets and treats.

Nov 28 McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade, 8-11am, State St from Congress to Randolph, Chicago. 312.235.2862. chicagofestivals.org. Every year this televised parade draws more than 400,000 people. The parade features giant balloons, marching bands, horses, floats, performances and more.

Nov 29-Dec 20 Caroling at Cloud Gate, 6pm, Chase Promenade Central, Millennium Park, Michigan Ave & Washington St, Chicago. 312.742.1168. millenniumpark. org. Now in its eighth season, this cherished Chicago tradition showcases Chicago choral groups and invites visitors to participate in a holiday sing-along.

Nov 29-Dec 22 Zoolights, 5-9pm Fri-Sun, Lincoln Park Zoo, Cannon Dr at Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago. 312.742.2000. lpzoo.org. Throughout the holiday season, Lincoln Park Zoo is dressed up to dazzle

Dec 6-Jan 12 Winter WonderFest, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago.

312.595.7437. winterwonderfest.com.

‘Tis the season to explore Navy Pier’s enchanted 170,000-square-foot winter playground featuring holiday décor, music, entertainment, an indoor ice skating rink, a zip line, an indoor Ferris wheel, huge inflatable slides, rides and more at this family-friendly holiday tradition.

Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Monster’s Ball, 9pm, Stage 773, 1225 W Belmont Ave, Chicago. 773.327.5252. stage773.com.

Back by frighteningly popular demand, this one-of-a-kind event offers a startling way to ring in the New Year with ghost and ghouls. Guests dressed in their most horrific attire can enjoy unlimited specialty drinks, diabolically delicious appetizers, live music from a zombie band and a haunted house.

Jan 16-20 Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show, noon-9pm Thu, 11am-9pm Fri, 10am-9pm Sat, 10am-7pm Sun, 10am-5pm Mon, McCormick Place, North Building, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. chicagoboatshow.com. This annual event brings the great outdoors indoors with hundreds of boats and the latest model RVs. The show also features gear for fishing and boating, as well as fun attracts for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Feb 8-17 Chicago Auto Show, 10am10pm Feb 8-16, 10am-8pm Feb 17, McCormick Place, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. chicagoautoshow.com.

Auto enthusiasts trek to this annual convention—celebrating its 106th anniversary this year—of more than 1,000 of the newest cars, trucks, SUVs and concept cars, all displayed within the colossal confines of McCormick Place. Also, Feb 7: First Look for Charity (7-11pm).

Feb 15-Mar 16 The Orchid Show, 10am-4pm, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe. 847.835.5440. chicagobotanic.org. For the first time, orchids will take over the garden, providing an infusion of warmth and color this winter. Visitors can view a large orchid tree, orchid columns and more as they read about orchid conservation effects.

exhibitions Indiana

Through Nov 30 Off the Wall—An Art Exhibit, LaPorte County Historical Society Museum, 2405 Indiana Ave, Suite 1, LaPorte. 219.324.6767. laportecountyhistory.org. Both old and newer pieces from the historical society’s collection are on display at this exhibit.

Works include a pen-and-ink drawing by former LaPorte County Schools art teacher, Goldie Taylor; a large painting of the ship the USS LaPorte; a small watercolor by Isamu Noguchi and more.

Through Nov 30 Photographic Exploration, Chesterton Art Center, 115 S St, Chesterton. 219.926.4711. chestertonart.com. A 40-year photography veteran, Martha McGuckin has moved from black and white enlargements to expressive digital creations displayed in this exhibit. Her digital images are carefully duplicated and arranged to create new, interesting, abstract images.

Through Dec 1 Abstraction…A Second Look—Paintings by Tom Brand, Center for Visual and Performing Arts Atrium Gallery, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster.

219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline. org. Artist Tom Brand’s paintings have a surface glow and luster achieved through the use of under painting and glazes, a studio technique developed during the Renaissance. This technique combined with his thoughtful sense of form, color and composition set his work apart.

Through Dec 1 The Best of 2013 SSAACC Photography Exhibit, Southern Shore Art Association, 724 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.369.9028. southernshoreartassociation. Southern Shore Art Association’s Camera Club presents their best photographs taken throughout the year.

Through Dec 15 E. John Walford Exhibit, Brauer Museum of Art, Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso. valpo.edu/artmuseum. E. John Walford offers his take on biblical stories through his digital collages. Also, through Dec 15: Selections from the Permanent Collection; Jan 7-Apr 6: Modern Vision—Japanese Prints from the Ruth A. Ruege Collection, Mr. Imagination— Chicago Self-Taught Artist and Trucks— Recent Work by John Himmelfarb.

Through Jan 12 Ansel Adams Photographs, The Snite Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame.

574.631.5466. sniteartmuseum.nd.edu.

In association with the traveling exhibit, Ansel Adams—Masterworks, at the South Bend Museum of Art, this exhibit features an installation of four black and white photographs by Ansel Adams, one of the most remarkable photographers of the 20th century. Also, through Dec 8: Torpor— Glasswork by Jaime Guerrero; through Dec 22: The Academy Exposed—French Figure Studies from the Permanent Collection; Jan 12-Mar 16: The Artist’s View—Landscape Drawings from the Crocker Museum and No Little Art—Dürer’s Apocalypse and Northern Renaissance Prints.

Through Jan 26 Something New Under the Sun—Automotive Inventions and Innovations, Studebaker National Museum, 201 S Chapin St, South Bend. 574.235.9714. studebakermuseum. org. This exhibit focuses on the automotive advances—the self-starter, air condition and automatic transmissions—that have significantly impacted our motoring life.

Also, through May 26: Studebaker— Preserving the Past… Pursuing the Future.

Through Feb 8 We are Porter County, Porter County Museum of History, 153 Franklin St, Valparaiso. 219.465.3595. This interactive and engaging exhibit highlights the formation of the county from its founding in 1836 to present day and visitors can learn about the transformation of the county from frontier to modern landscape.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Dec 14 Holiday Expo & Craft Show, 9am-4pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St, Kalamazoo. 269.383.8778. kalcounty.com. With more than 100 vendors, crafters and artists from across Michigan, shoppers can find that special gift for everyone on their holiday list at this expo and craft show.

offers winter fun for the whole family with dazzling ice sculptures, a chili cook-off, a pub slide, outdoor ice skating, curling, horse drawn carriage rides, kids crafts and many more exciting events. During the event, sculptors shape more than 50 blocks of ice, weighing 300 pounds each.

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This year, the annual market hosts more than 40 participating local artists and crafters showing and selling their work— including jewelry, paintings, photography and more. A portion of the proceeds benefit the art center.

essential events Through Feb 9 Citizen Soldier Citizen, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. Contemporary works by military combat veterans will be on display at this exhibition honors those who have fought for freedom and those fighting to reintegrate into society after their war experiences. Also, through Feb 24: Theater of Conflict.

Michigan

Through Dec 8 Jan Frieden—Books and Trees, Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles. 269.695.6491. fernwoodbotanical. org. This multimedia exhibit features found objects and 3-D pieces by Jan Frieden.

Through Jan 5 Happy Owl-idays, Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. Box Factory for the Arts celebrates the “Owl-i-days” with a show and sale featuring a variety of media—quilts, hooked rugs, stuffed creations, weavings, bakits and more—all featuring at least one owl incorporated into each creation.

Through Jan 12 Sketches to Sculptures—Rendered Reality, Sixty Year with Marshall M. Fredericks, Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph.

269.983.0271. krasl.org. A pre-eminent figurative sculptor in American art in the 20th century, Marshall M. Fredericks created iconic sculptures and monuments located throughout the world. This touring exhibit offers the unique opportunity to look at the creative process of the artist—from informal sketches to presentation drawings and small bronze sculptures. Also, through Jan 12: Andrews University Place Making Studio.

Nov 26-Jan 5 Christmas and Holiday Traditions, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, NE, Grand Rapids. 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. With more than 42 cultural trees and displays, plus Santa, reindeer, carolers, carriage rides and the much-loved Railway Garden, this annual exhibition is sure to delight guests of all ages. This exhibition focuses on nature and natural materials as a unique but critical element for holidays in many cultures. Also, through Jan 5: Shattered— Contemporary Sculpture in Glass;

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Dec 14-Feb 9 Fantastic Rumpus—50 Years of Children’s Book Illustration, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 269.349.7775. kiarts. org. Children and adults alike will be delighted by the original children’s book illustrations from 31 prominent children’s book illustrators, who each acknowledge the importance and influence of Maurice Sendak’s work. Also, through Dec 1: Copley to Kentridge—What’s New in the Collection?; through Dec 8: 2013 Kirk Newman Art School Faculty Review; through Jan 26: BOO! Images of the Macabre; through Feb 2: Mountains and Waters—Landscape Paintings from China; Dec 21-Feb 23: Impressions—Selections from Stewart & Stewart; Feb 1-May 25: Inside Steinway—Photographs by Christopher Payne; Feb 9-Jul 5: Cultural Encounters—India, Burman and Tibet; Feb 22-May 4: Environmental Impact.

Jan 3-Feb 16 Breaking Possibilities— Constructing the Impossible, South Haven Center for the Arts, 600 Phoenix St, South Haven. 269.637.1041. southhavenarts.org. This comprehensive exhibit of fragile art made by some of today’s finest glass artists takes a closer look at glass as a medium with a sculptural focus

that pushes the boundaries and possibilities of physics. Visitors will experience color and form like never before.

Illinois

Through Jan 5 Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St and Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 773.947.3133. msichicago.org. A Chicago tradition that began in 1942, this one-of-a-kind seasonal celebration boasts the museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree at center stage with more than 30,000 lights and 1,000 ornaments. More than 50 smaller trees beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities represent various cultures and holiday traditions. In addition, school choral groups perform on the holiday stage during the week, and ethnic song and dance performers on the weekends. Also, through Feb 2: 80 at 80; through May 4: Treasures of the Disney Archives.

Through Jan 9 Violence and Virtue—Artemisia Gentileschi’s Judith Slaying Holofernes, The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago.

312.629.6635. artic.edu/aic. One of the most famous and skilled painters of the Baroque era, Artemisia Gentileschi was among the first women artists to achieve success in the 17th century. This exhibit explores Gentileschi’s famous Judith Slaying Holofernes in context of her remarkable career and the complex responses of Renaissance and Baroque artists to the story of Judith. Also, through Dec 1: Play, Pretend and Dream—Caldecott Medal and Honor Books, 2010-2013; through Jan 5: 3 in 1—Contemporary Explorations in Architecture and Design, Max Kozloff— Critic and Photographer, The Mezzotints of Hamanishi Katsunori, New Views—The Rendered Image in Architecture and Shomei Tomatsu—Island Life; through Jan 8: Holidays 2013—Open Something Greater; Holiday Thorne Rooms and Neapolitan Crèche—A Holiday Gift to the City; through Jan 12: Amar Kanwar—The Lightning Testimonies, Isaac Julien—The Long Road to Mazatlán; Japanese Art of the 1960s—The Challenge of Tradition and Japanese Art of the 1960s—The Challenge of Tradition; through Jan 26: focus—Monika Baer; through Jan 27: Art and Appetite—American Painting, Culture and Cuisine and Devouring Books; through Feb 16: Dreams and Echoes—Drawings and Sculpture in the David and Celia Hilliard Collection; through Mar 9: Ed Clark; through Apr 20: Ugo Rondinone— we run through the desert on burning feet, all of us are glowing our faces look twisted; through Jul 27: When the Greeks Ruled—Egypt after Alexander Great; Jan 25-May 18: Christopher Williams—The Production Line of Happiness; Feb 23-May 11: Christopher Wool.

Through Sept 7 Opening the Vaults— Wonders of the 1983 World’s Fair, The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.9410. fieldmuseum. org. Now, 120 years after the World’s Fair, the museum opens its hidden collections to display incredible artifacts and specimens that bring to life one of the most spectacular events in the Windy City’s history. Rarely and never-before-seen objects, including a meteorite so feared it was kept chained in a dungeon and more.

Also, through Jan 5: Creatures of Light— Nature’s Bioluminescence; through Jan 20: Fractured—North Dakota’s Oil Boom and Images of the Afterlife.

Nov 29-Jan 6 Wonderland Express, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe. 847.835.5440. chicagobotanic.org. Once a year, the

Chicago Botanic Garden transforms into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, garden-scale trains, miniature Chicago landmarks, beautiful horticulture displays and an indoor snowfall.

Nov 29-Apr 13 CITY SELF, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago. org. At this exhibit, visitors can explore Chicago through the eyes of local artists and outsiders. A certain measure of alienation permeates much of the works by the artists in the “outsider” category, while local artists offer a more sympathetic or relaxed “insider” view. Also, through Nov 19: Miller & Shellabarger; through Dec 2: Amanda Ross-Ho; through Dec 3: José Lerma; through Jan 5: Paul Sietsema; through Mar 9: The Way of the Shovel—Art as Archaeology; through Jun 15: Warhol and Marisol; through Aug 17: Alexander Calder; Dec 17-Apr 15: Lillie Carré.

performance Indiana

Blue Chip Casino, 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City. 219.879.7711. bluechipcasino.com. The ultimate live entertainment destination, Blue Chip offers everything from local bands, favorite acts from yesteryear, hilarious comedy acts and more at It’s Vegas Baby! and Rock Lounge to world-famous performers and local bands at the Stardust Event Center, a 15,000+ square-foot entertainment destination. Nov 27: BBI and Dick Diamond and the Dusters; Nov 29: JP and the Cats and Déjà Vu; Nov 30: 2nd Hand Entertainment, The Dancing Noodles, Too White Crew and Tumbleweed; Dec 6: P.S. Dump Your Boyfriend; Dec 7: Carlos Ramos Band, The Chicago Kingsnakes and Elwood Splinters Blues Band; Dec 13: The SuperSuits; Dec 14: April’s Reign and The Neverly Brothers; Dec 21: The HZ Band.

Chicago Street Theater, 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. Now in its 58th season of bringing live theatrical entertainment to the greater Northwest Indiana region, the CST presents a variety of plays and musicals each season, in addition to regularly scheduled theater classes for both adults and children. Nov 29-Dec 21: Naughty or Nice Holiday Double Feature; Jan 31-Feb 15: The Beauty Queen of Leenane.

DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Campus. 574.631.2800. performingarts. nd.edu. The state-of-the-art, 150,000-square-foot facility, newly opened in 2004, is host to some of the world’s most celebrated artists. In addition, its stages showcase student, faculty and community performers, as well as the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Southold Dance, the Notre Dame Symphony, the South Bend Civic Theatre, and more. Dec 1: Danu; Dec 6-7: Notre Dame Chorale and Chamber Orchestra—Handle’s Messiah and National Theatre—50 Years on Stage; Dec 8: University Band Concert and Jazz Band Concert; Dec 12: Collegium Musicum Fall Concert; Dec 14: Glee Club Christmas Concert; Dec 15: Burning River Brass; Jan 12: June H. Edwards Chamber II— Beethoven Beethoven Beethoven; Jan 18: Kenny Barron Trio; Jan 19: Barry Jordan; Jan 26: Third Coast Percussion; Jan 30-Feb 1: National Theatre Live—Coriolanus; Feb 1: Intergalatic Nemesis—Book 1 Target Earth and Book 2 Robot Rising; Feb 13-15: L.A. Theatre Works—The Graduate; Feb 20-22: Diavolo Dance Theater; Feb 20-Mar 2: Clybourne Park; Feb 27, Mar 2: National Theatre Live—War Horse.

Festival Players Guild, Mainstreet Theatre, 807 Franklin St, Michigan City.

219.874.4269. festivalplayesrguild.org.

Since 1969, Festival Players Guild has been dedicated to nurturing and producing performing arts of the highest order in Northern Indiana. Home of the guild, Mainstreet Theatre offers an intimate setting with 130 seats, which assures every patron a seat no further than 12 rows from the front. Dec 13-15: The Gift and Rented Christmas; Feb 8: Ranting Llamas.

Footlight Players, 1705 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.874.4035. footlightplayers.org. This community theater group has been entertaining audiences in Michigan City for more than 50 years with its productions of dramas, comedies and musicals. Dec 6-8, 13-15: A Christmas Carol; Feb 7-9, 14-16, 21-23: The Dream Continues.

Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond. 866.711.7463. horseshoehammond.com. World-class gambling and top-name entertainment combine to create an unprecedented experience at this 350,000-squarefoot casino. The Venue, the casino’s 90,000-square-foot entertainment facility, hosts some of the hottest Chicagoland entertainment. Nov 22-23: Chris Tucker; Nov 29: The Whispers & Dramatics; Dec 7: Lisa Lampanelli; Dec 14: Nikos Makropoulos; Dec 12: Celtic Women’s Home for Christmas—The Symphony Tour.

Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 219.836.0525. nwisymphony.org. Conducted by the charismatic Kirk Muspratt, this professional orchestra performs concerts that range in atmosphere from the whimsical pops series to the edifying and inspirational maestro series, many of which offer preconcert discussions with the conductor an hour before the concert. Dec 12: Holiday Pops (Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville); Feb 14: Tosca (The Auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point).

Ross Music Theatre, Center Stage Studio, 227 Center St, Hobart. 219.947.4922. m-mproductions.com. In 1964, Ross Summer Music Theatre began as a performance venue for teenagers and young adults. Now in association with M&M Productions, the theater presents seven productions annually and offer two to four children’s workshops at Center Stage Studio and Reinhart Auditorium. Jan 10-12, 17-19: Monty Python’s Sampalot (Merrillville High School’s Reinhart Auditorium, 276 E 68th Pl, Merrillville).

Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. starplazatheatre.com. With 3,400 seats arranged in two intimate seating levels, the theater consistently hosts premier performers year-round. With its convenient location in the heart of Northwest Indiana’s shopping and dining district and its proximity to the adjoining Radisson Hotel, the Star Plaza offers a total entertainment package to area theatergoers. Nov 24: The Oak Ridge Boys; Nov 30: Jeffrey Osborne; Dec 4-5: Indiana Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker; Dec 8: Doo-Wop Yule Pop; Dec 15: An Oh So Acoustic Christmas; Dec 22: Michael McDonald; Dec 27: Cheap Trick; Dec 28: Styx; Dec 31: Damon Williams’ New Year’s Eve Comedy Bash; Jan 11: Elvis Tribute Spectacular.

The Theatre at the Center, Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter.com. This theater, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago,

Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. towletheater.org. To honor its mission of nurturing and celebrating local talent in the arts, the Towle Community Theater presents exhibitions, theatrical productions and musical performances in the heart of downtown Hammond. Nov 30-Dec 1, Dec 6-8, 13-15, 20-22: A Fabulous 50’s Christmas; Jan 10-12: 2014 Season Preview; Feb 28-Mar 2, Mar 7-9, 13-16: Adrift in Macao.

Michigan

The Acorn Theater, 6 N Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.3879. acorntheater.com.

The 250-seat Acorn is home to a carefully reconstructed, rare Barton Theater Pipe Organ and boasts bistro tables and occasionally offbeat entertainment options.

Nov 29: Magic Up Close!; Nov 30: Bonnie Koloc; Dec 6: Howard Levy in Trio Globo.

Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. The Berrien Artist Guild has converted an old box factory into a multidisciplinary arts resource, housing galleries, studios, an art shop and a café.

Visitors also can take advantage of the Box Factory as an entertainment venue, attending stage performances by singers, musicians, poets and actors. Nov 30: Rust Belt Songwriters.

Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. 616.454.9451 ext 4. grsymphony.org. Recognized as one of America’s leading regional orchestras, this Grammy-nominated symphony provides the orchestra for Opera Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Ballet Company.

The orchestra’s eight concert series with performances designed for young children through adults feature a wide range of repertoire. Dec 5-8: Nestlé Gerber Holiday Pops; Dec 10: Candlelight Cathedral Concert; Dec 17-19: Fifth Third Cirque de Noël; Dec 31: A Swingin’ New Years Eve; Jan 10-11: Brahms’ First Symphony; Jan 17-19: ‘60s Hits with the Midtown Men; Jan 25: Peter and the Wolf; Jan 31-Feb 1: Russian Masters; Feb 8: Music, Art, Dance; Feb 14: The Baroque Concert—Valentine’s Day!; Feb 15: The Music of the Rolling Stones; Feb 21-22: Hadelich Plays Brahms.

Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 269.982.4030. smso.org. This versatile orchestra offers a traditional Mendel Mainstage Series, small ensemble works in the Around Town Series, and the Performing Artists series, which showcases a wide range of styles with guest artists. Dec 14: Jingle Bells Forever (LMC Mendel Center Mainstage, 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor); Feb 8:

Van Andel Arena, 130 W Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616.742.6600. vanandelarena. com. Ranked second on Billboard Magazine’s 2003 Top 10 Arena Venues for its size, this $75 million 12,000-plus capacity arena offers world-class family shows, concerts and sporting events to the increasingly popular Grand Rapids area.

Nov 27: John Mayer—Born & Raised Tour; Dec 15: Trans-Siberian Orchestra—The Lost Christmas Eve; Jan 9: Keith Urban— Light The Fuse Tour 2014; Jan 23: Winter Jam 2014 Tour Spectacular; Jan 24-25: Nuclear Cowboyz; Jan 26: The Harlem Globetrotters; Feb 9: Jason Aldean; Feb 27Mar 2: Disney on Ice—Princesses & Heroes.

West Michigan Symphony, Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts, 425 W Western Ave, Muskegon. 231.727.8001. westmichigansymphony.org. With eight pairs of concerts a year, the West Michigan Symphony has played a leading role in the region’s cultural community for almost 70 years. It has helped bring a renewed vitality and life to the center of Muskegon and with it, the historic Frauenthal Theater, a 1,729-seat venue with extraordinary beauty, excellent acoustics and sight lines.

Dec 13-14: Swingin’ Holiday Celebration; Dec 15: Singer. Actress. Gingerbread. (The Block, 360 W Western Ave, 2nd Floor, Muskegon); Jan 18: Russian. Composers.

Pierogies. (The Block, 360 W Western Ave, 2nd Floor, Muskegon); Feb 7: Surprise & Classical Symphonies; Feb 8: Jazzy. Café.

Pommes Frites. (The Block, 360 W Western Ave, 2nd Floor, Muskegon).

Illinois

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Parkway, Chicago.

312.902.1500. auditoriumtheatre.org. A National Historic Landmark and a mainstay of Chicago architecture and theatre since 1889, the Auditorium continues to provide unparalleled ballet performances and a variety of artistic productions. Dec 6-28: The Joffrey Ballet—The Nutcracker; Dec 11: Willow Chicago—The Christmas Story; Jan 17-19: Too Hot to Handel—The Jazz-Gospel Messiah; Feb 12-23: The Joffrey Ballet— Contemporary Choregraphers; Feb 28-Mar 9: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Broadway in Chicago, various venues, Chicago. 800.775.2000. broadwayinchicago.com. A joint venture between the two largest commercial theater producers and owner/operators in the U.S., Broadway in Chicago offers the finest of professional stage productions in multiple theaters, all residing in Chicago’s lively Loop.

Bank of America Theatre, 18 W Monroe St. Feb 25-Mar 2: Chicago. Broadway Playhouse, 175 E Chestnut. Through Dec 29: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer—The Musical. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St. Through Dec 15: Elf the Musical; Jan 9-Mar 2: The Phantom of the Opera. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St. Through Dec 21: Wicked; Jan 7-19: Ghost the Musical; Feb 8: Alton Brown Live!

The Edible Inevitable Tour.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier, 800 E Grand Ave, Chicago. 312.595.5600. chicagoshakes.com. Prominently located on Navy Pier in Chicago, this venue mounts renowned productions of the plays of William Shakespeare, as well as works from distinguished American and international playwrights and directors. The theater’s mission to reach out to younger audiences is well accomplished with its offerings of children’s productions and student matinees. The architecturally dynamic

structure houses both an engaging, 500seat courtyard theater and a 200-seat black box theater. Nov 30-Dec 22: A 2 Brothers’ Christmas Carol; Dec 3-Jan 19: The Merry Wives of Windsor; Feb 6-Mar 23: Gypsy; Feb 22-Mar 22: Short Shakespeare! A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Chicago Sinfonietta, Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center, 2205 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. chicagosinfonietta.org. In its pursuit of “Musical Excellence through Diversity,” the Chicago Sinfonietta—the official orchestra of the Joffrey Ballet— presents compelling, innovative works, often by composers and soloists of color.

Dec 14: Magical Holiday Breakfast (Crystal Garden at Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago); Jan 19-20: Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Sun: Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville).

The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, Chicago. 312.462.6300. thechicagotheatre. com. The Chicago Theatre has been a prototype for area theaters since 1921.

With its lavish architecture and an elegant stage, the Chicago Theatre seats 3,600 and stands seven stories high. Nov 30: Straight No Chaser; Dec 6: Miracle on State Street; Dec 7: Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2013; Dec 13-14: Jerry Seinfeld; Dec 31: Cheech & Chong and WAR; Feb 28: Wayne Brady.

Court Theatre, 5535 S Ellis Ave, Chicago.

773.753.4472. courttheatre.org. The Court Theatre is a not-for-profit, professional regional theater that is located on the campus of the University of Chicago. Its mission to “discover the power of classic theater” is realized in its intimate, 251-seat auditorium. Through Dec 8: An Iliad; Jan 9-Feb 9: Seven Guitars; The Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St, Chicago. 312.443.3800. goodmantheatre.org. Since 1925, the Goodman Theatre has provided entertainment to the Chicago area; however, a new, state-of-the-art twotheater complex was completed in 2000— 75 years to the day after the dedication of the original—and resides in the vibrant North Loop Theater District within walking distance of fine hotels and restaurants.

Through Dec 28: A Christmas Carol; Dec 7-22: The Upstairs Concierge; Dec 8-22: The Solid Sand Below; Dec 14: Feathers and Teeth and The Rooster Room; Dec 15: Another Word for Beauty; Jan 18-Feb 23: Luna Gale; Feb 8-Mar 9: Buzzer.

Harris Theater, 205 E Randolph, Chicago.

312.704.8414. harristheaterchicago. org. Now in its fifth season at its home in the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park, this modern state-of-the-art theater guarantees that the audience will enjoy a wide variety of performances in an intimate setting. Dec 6: Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus—Holiday Concert; Dec 12-15: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago—Winter Series; Dec 16: Chicago Symphony Orchestra—Music Now! Prefusion; Dec 18: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center—Brandenburg Concertos; Dec 19-20: International Music Foundation—Do-It-Yourself Messiah; Dec 21: Apollo Chorus of Chicago—Handel’s Messiah; Dec 23, 25-31, Jan 2-5: Mary Wilson with guests The Four Tops; Jan 24: Savion Glover—STePZ; Jan 28: Music of the Baroque—The Coronation Mass; Jan 30: DanceWorks Chicago—Eat to the Beat; Dec 16: Chicago Symphony Orchestra—Music Now! Folk Songs; Feb 7: Gidon Kremer and Kremerata Baltica; Feb 19-20: Hamburg Ballet—Third Symphony of Gustav Mahler; Feb 27: LINES Ballet—Constellation; Feb 28: LINES Ballet—Collaboration with Edgar Meyer.

Lyric Opera of Chicago, Civic Opera House, Madison & Wacker, Chicago.

312.332.2244 ext 5600. lyricopera.org.

The world-class Lyric Opera enraptures audiences with its spectacular artistry, performing in one of the most unique theaters in the world. The recently refurbished Civic Opera House not only is an elaborate treasure on the inside, but it is architecturally distinctive as well, shaped like a throne facing the Chicago River.

Through Nov 29: Parsifal; through Dec 20: La Traviata; through Jan 26: Madama Butterfly; Dec 10-Jan 18: Die Fledermaus; Feb 1-28: The Barber of Seville; Feb 22-Mar 16: Rusalka.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.397.4010. mcachicago.org. Reflecting the modern atmosphere of the adjoining museum, the state-of-the-art MCA Theater features elegant oak-paneled walls and tiered seating, which guarantees that every one of the 300 seats can boast the best seat in the house. Dec 5, 7: Sandra Bernhard— Everything Bad and Beautiful; Dec 21-22: Tsukasa Taiko; Jan 23-26: Lola Arias—El Año en qui nací (The year I was born); Feb 20-23: Abraham.in.Motion—The Radio Show.

Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora. 630.896.6666. paramountaurora. com. Named “One of Chicago’s Top Ten Theatres” by the League of Chicago Theatres, the Paramount is renowned for the quality and caliber of its presentations, superb acoustics and historic beauty. Dec 4: Henry & Mudge; Dec 6: Ballet Foklorico Quetzalcoatl; Dec 6-22: Nut-cracking Holiday Revue; Dec 7-9: A Christmas Carol; Dec 14: Mannheim Steamroller; Dec 18: Christmas with the Celts; Dec 28: Bill Blagg; Dec 31: Piano Men—Tribute to Elton & Billy; Jan 15-Feb 9: 42nd Street; Feb 14: The Midtown Men; Feb 16: Peking Acrobats; Feb 18: Red Sky—The Great Mountain.

Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St, St Charles. 630.584.6342. pheasantrun. com. Acclaimed throughout Chicago and the Midwest for its entertainment, Pheasant Run Resort features theater at its Mainstage and Studio theaters, comedy at Zanies Comedy Club, and live music, entertainment, art exhibits and shopping at its own version of Bourbon Street. Through Dec 29: Making God Laugh; Dec 7-21: The Little Mermaid.

Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N Halsted, Chicago. 312.335.1650. steppenwolf. org. The Chicago-based cast is an internationally renowned group of 43 artists, committed to the art of ensemble collaboration. Now in its 35th season, Steppenwolf continues to fulfill its mission by offering intriguing performances and taking artistic risks. Through Dec 29: The Mikado; Dec 5-Feb 9: Tribes; Feb 6-May 11: Russian Transport.

Victory Gardens Theater, various venues.

773.871.3000. victorygardens.org. As one of the country’s most respected midsized professional theater companies, this Tony Award-winning theater is dedicated to serving playwrights and producing world premiere plays. Programs include five mainstage productions with emphasis placed on the development of an ethnically and culturally diverse community of arts.

Through Nov 30: Elegy; through Dec 8: Appropriate; Jan 18-Feb 23: Golden Dragon; Feb 28-Mar 30: The Gospel of Lovingkindness.

For more events and destinations, please go to visitshoremagazine.com

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Silver Creek Event Center, Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo.

866.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com/ events. The Silver Creek Event Center is a 1,500-seat, multi-use facility that is located next to the casino floor. In addition to hosting concerts, the 70,000-squarefoot event center can be reconfigured to host a variety of meetings, special events, conferences and banquets. Nov 30: 80’s Proof; Dec 7: Michael Bolton; Dec 31: Kenny Loggins; Feb 28: Sylvia Browne.

MAJESTY—The Best of British Rock (LMC Mendel Center Mainstage, 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor).

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has the distinction of being the only professional equity theater in Northwest Indiana, and showcases the artistry of professional actors, musicians and designers from throughout the Midwest. Nov 14-Dec 22: A Christmas Carol The Musical; Dec 31, Jan 4-5: His Way—A Tribute to The Man and His Music; Feb 20-Mar 30: Ring of Fire—The Music of Johnny Cash.

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ce carvers create masterful pieces of temporary art all while working under extreme conditions.

They carve in the outdoors with no control over the temperature, which might be freezing or might be just warm enough to cause their creations to collapse. They carve freestyle pieces that are full of detail yet still finished within an allotted time frame, which varies by competition. Once complete, their work is scored by a group of judges and enjoyed by fest-goers before melting forever.

Carving can be stressful but exhilarating to do and watch.

The unknown conditions coupled with the artistry are the attraction, say carving aficionados and festival organizers who count on them to bring visitors to town.

Cash prizes, personal goals and a chance to win the Tour of Champions also motivate the carvers.

Mark Smith judges ice carving events including St. Joseph, Michigan’s annual Magical Ice Fest, which he helped begin about a decade ago.

Smith, who lives in Coloma, Michigan, is a former competitor and National Ice Carving Association judge.

The association, known as NICA, sanctions ice sculpting competitions and is the largest ice sculpting organization in the world.

In smaller events like St. Joe’s, a team of three judges decides the winners by scoring pieces in 10 categories like creativity, utilization of ice, artistic impression and structure.

Each judge scores three categories and all the judges score the piece’s first impression, basically “the wow factor,” Smith says.

To earn a gold medal, carvers must score 900 points or better. A score of 800 earns silver and 700 or better earns

bronze. Any score of 600 and more earns special recognition.

Smith says, “When it comes to competition, it has to be right to a tee. It has to be symmetrical, proportionate.” When sculpting a bird, for example, the artist must ensure the wings are the same size.

“Spectators don’t see half of what us judges see,” Smith says, noting they also look closely at the seams of the ice and finishing touches.

Chad Hartson competes in ice carving festivals and owns Ice Creations, icecreations.net, the largest provider of ice blocks used for the events. Located in Napoleon, Ohio, his company makes 40 blocks of ice a week that are later trucked to the various fests, including St. Joe’s.

To keep the competition fair, each block of ice must be made to a consistent size. Most competitions use a 300pound block of ice, Hartson says. Blocks are exactly 20 by 40 by 9 ½ inches thick.

Hartson, who is a member of NICA, explains that carvers earn points at every competition. At the end of the season those points are used to determine the winner of the Tour of Champions.

“Whoever has the highest three scores out of all the competitions they’ve competed in becomes the winner.”

The key to success is often practice, Hartson says, relating ice carving to gymnastics.

“You do the same routine over and over again at different competitions while making it better. That’s the same thing the carvers do.” If they score well with a piece at a competition, they will add personal goals for next time like trying to complete it faster or add new components.

photography courtesy of ST. JOSEPH TODAY

COMPETITIVE ICE CARVING IN A WORLD OF ITS OWN

WORDS BY Jennifer Pallay

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For more information about Magical Ice Fest events, visit magicalicefest. com, facebook.com/stjoetoday or call 269.985.1111.

“We try to keep the level of carving very professional so that you’re seeing something unique,” Brian Smith says.

“We have a great group of carvers that comes back year in, year out. Their names are on the work so they want to do a good job.”

Jill Stone, executive director at St. Joseph Today, says, “We attract all of the great ones because it’s certified.” The carvers travel to sanctioned events to attain points for the Tour of Champions.

One of Magical Ice Fest’s highlights in 2014 will be Ice Wars, which was a head-to-head competition introduced in 2013. The cheers from the crowd determine the winners in each 15-minute battle round.

“It’s a boxing ring style format,” Stone says. “We square it off at Pleasant and State streets. There’s music in the background. The crowd goes wild.”

Based on the popularity of Ice Wars in 2013, organizers are adding bleachers to make it easier to view in 2014.

She says that while the carvers have camaraderie and great sportsmanship during regular competition, Ice Wars does bring out the smack talk. She expects even more rivalry this year as they try to take down last year’s reigning champ.

Magical Ice Fest visitors like that it’s an art form they do not see all of the time, Stone says. “It’s also a temporary medium. You see something created that is eventually going to go away. You are here doing this but if the weather is a few degrees too warm, it can cause a problem. There’s more Mother Nature type factors making it more exciting for audience, and that’s why these guys do this.

“It takes a lot of focus in their own little quadrant. They’re all set up in different corners. One false move or wrong cut, the whole thing can go down. That’s happened before. You know they work so hard and you walk by and see a pile of ice but that’s part of what makes it so exciting for the crowds and participants.”

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Ice carving competitions and fests are becoming more popular, Hartson says, noting that his company has a few new towns it is working with this year.

“It’s a great draw to bring people out during the winter time,” Hartson says.

Brian Smith, events manager at St. Joseph Today and stjoetoday.com, says Magical Ice Fest is one of the largest events the visitor’s center hosts. Organizers are especially excited about the 2014 fest because it will be the 10th anniversary.

Magical Ice Fest includes two main competitions—a team event and an individual one. For the individual competition, carvers receive one block of ice and have two hours to put forth their best effort. During the team event, two carvers work with eight blocks of ice and have eight hours to work on their sculpture.

The fest is a huge draw for St. Joe and Brian Smith says there are a few reasons.

“It’s a pretty dynamic event,” he says. “If you’ve never seen multiple 300 pound blocks of ice, it’s something to see.

There’s also the artistic side of it, the tools they use to do it.

Some of these pieces are delicate and the effort that goes in is amazing.”

The competition is always friendly with carvers helping each other when needed, Smith says. Of course, all the carvers want to win the prize money, which gets into the thousands thanks to St. Joe’s sponsorship community.

The prizes allow their fest to attract the best carvers. The event is also sanctioned through NICA with NICAcertified judges who have all carved in the past.

LA VIE BOHÈME:

décor

organic modern

Bohemian interiors are back with a vengeance, and it looks like they’re not going away any time soon. But if the word “bohemian” inspires a twinge of fear, don’t write the aesthetic off yet. New bohemian design is not synonymous with the haphazard, shabby décor choices of yesteryear. Instead, it’s equal parts modern, cozy, and global, and it can still hold charm for those who seek structure and tradition in home design.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CAROLYN PURNELL

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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erhaps better described as “organic modern décor,” this style is ultimately about a well-edited mix of natural materials, interesting textures, and clean lines.

The simple, structured pieces commonly associated with mid-century modernism are paired with woven rugs, plush throws, and splashes of color to form an eclectic but cohesive design. When asked about her style, Irina Ruvinsky, a professor at the Art Institute of Chicago who has mastered this new bohemian look, says that her approach to her home is the same as her approach to cooking. “I love food that is simple, casual, and unpretentious, and where each ingredient is chosen for its quality, flavor, and versatility. I think that modern organic pieces follow those rules and make living effortless, comfortable, and aesthetically appealing.”

Comfort is one of the key descriptors of this design style, and it drives a good deal of the aesthetic. Organic modern décor can be as neutral or color-infused as you like, and the proper mix is much less centered on having particular articles than on creating a cozy “feel.”

Claire Tibbs, the owner of the vintage home goods store Humboldt House, admits that the style is hard to describe because it’s so eclectic, but at its core, it’s about creating a warm, welcoming environment that pairs some of the clean, streamlined elements of modern design with the handmade, bespoke aspects of the decorative arts.

Decorating based on the desired “feel” of a room can be liberating since it allows you to create a space uniquely tailored to your tastes. But an effortless look can be notoriously difficult to achieve, and with so much open interpretation, it could feel a bit daunting to know where to begin. For those new to the style, there are four main considerations that will help keep things balanced. The first is

Resources: HUMBOLDT HOUSE 1045 N California Ave Chicago, Ill. humboldthouseco.com BLACK TREE STUDIO POTTERY 111 E Michigan St New Carlisle, Ind. blacktreestudio.com LUBEZNIK CENTER FOR THE ARTS 101 W Second St Michigan City, Ind. lubeznikcenter.org THE WELCOME MAT 309 E Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. thewelcomemat.org ANTIQUE JUNCTION MALL 711 Lincolnway LaPorte, Ind. malldog.com

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thumb, succulents are a hardy choice, and they instantly add character to a room.

Thirdly, while you’re looking to create an eclectic mix, don’t feel like you have to go overboard.

Carefully editing your accessories and choosing items that truly speak to you will keep the look streamlined, modern, and uncluttered. Think of the room as a rotating collection of cherished objects; it should offer a comfortable yet considered mix.

The final suggestion is arguably the most important. The heart of the new bohemian style is a sense of depth, created primarily through the mix of patterns and textures. By blending hard and soft, plush and woven, and slick and rough, a room will have more visual and tactile interest. It will feel like a rich, intriguing space rather than a flat collection of objects. By inviting a deeper connection with all the senses, you will feel compelled to linger and explore the beautiful elements you’ve collected.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

to try to approach your design choices with an appreciation for a wide variety of decorative traditions.

Turkish, Moroccan, Scandinavian, and French elements can mingle in the same room, serving as visual complements for one another. Mixing items from multiple cultures will help the room look layered and eclectic rather than overly “theme-y.” Local antique stores are wonderful sources for rugs, lighting, and case goods, and textiles are an easy way to add a multi-cultural touch to a room.

The second tip is to infuse the room with a number of natural materials. Wood, leather, minerals, baskets, wool, pottery, and greenery– the combination of all of these materials will add the “organic” aspect to the design, making your space feel warmer and more alive. Local art galleries, fair trade shops, and nature museums are great places to find artisanal goods and curious artifacts. And be sure to visit your local greenhouse. Even if you don’t have a green

8ways TO MAKE YOUR TABLE

great Our challenge to Diana Twyman, co-owner of the Miller Bakery CafĂŠ with her son, Jack Strode, was to decorate a holiday table that would be functional, beautiful, durable and simple enough that a regular person might be able to learn how to do something similar. Oh, and we wanted the table to take on a certain life of its own, to become the view from a window onto the holidays, to have a sight line that goes on forever.

Words by PAT COLANDER Photography by TONY V. MARTIN

Holiday MENU

SUGGESTIONS STARTERS AND SMALL PLATES Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Puffs Spicy Pulled Pork Bites with Smokey Chipotle Mayo Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Bacon Chive Icing Bison Sliders with Caramelized Onions, Smoked Gouda and Sundried Tomato Mayo on Pretzel Bun Blackened Tilapia Sliders with Juicy Mango, Crisp Lettuce and Lemon Cilantro Mayo on Pretzel Bun

SOUPS AND SALAD Butternut Squash and Ginger Soup White Winter Bean Soup with House Made Sausage

1.

Figure out your color scheme.

According to Diana, who quickly enlisted the assistance of her friend Terry Cera, they decided that they needed a color scheme that was festive, but could work with minimal changes from Thanksgiving all the way through to New Year’s Eve.

2.

Focus on lighting. In order for the decorations to carry your eye down the line of a table for 20, Diana and Terry chose a garland. “The garland had beautiful winter scenes on it, flowers and pearly things,” she says, that they covered with shiny gauzy material that might be intended to drape on a tree. “We just used it to soften the lighting down the middle of our big, long table.”

3.

Choose a centerpiece for the focal point. Once that is done, you can put smaller lower things that echo or complement the center. “We chose a sparkly white centerpiece,” Terry says, “that could then be offset by multicolored champagne glasses, wine glasses and votive candle holders.”

4.

Channel your guests. Terry and Diana chose accent pieces and accessories that would not obstruct conversation that let you see the person across from you. There were relatively few tapers scattered around the table and, like the votives, the candlestick holders did not necessarily match.

5.

Think about utility. “Because these are restaurant tables, and guests are served plated food, you don’t need as much open space on the table,” Diana explains. Most home dining room tables are wider than this table, so there would be more room for food and family-style service.”

6.

Keep a neutral base that will withstand a color change. “Even a change in the napkin color would make the table look different,” Diana says.

Transparent glassware also enhances a simple basic design.

7.

Use what you have and change the inexpensive decorative touches.

“We bought the garland with the lighting already in it. We used glassware we already had. The tapers and taper holders we already had. The votives we already had,” she says. There were a few pieces borrowed like a crystal vase. “We bought the sparkly fruit, the ribbon, the lights, the centerpiece and smaller glass trees. We bought the garland, the mesh and the sparkly branches with little red gooseberries.” The rest, Diana says, was brought from home.

Purchased items from Michael’s came in at less than $300.

8.

Remember the goal. Terry and Diana never lost sight of the fact that they “wanted to showcase a beautiful room and make it feel homey, warm and inviting.”

Baby Spinach with Candied Pecans, Blue Cheese, Granny Apples and Warm Bacon Dressing Chopped Romaine, Diced Tomatoes, Parmesan, Red Wine Vinaigrette

ENTREES Lobster Truffle Linguini with Portobello Mushrooms, Garlic, Parsley and Truffle Oil Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Steak Stuffed with Mushrooms, Onions, Garlic, Pine Nuts, Feta, Topped with Mozzarella, Feta and Parsley Pesto Crab Meat Stuffed Flounder with Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes and Almond Green Beans Grilled Pork Chop with Apple Bourbon Glaze, Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

DESSERT Miller Bakery’s Signature Buttery Croissant Bread Pudding with Golden Raisins, Toasted Pecans Served Warm with Fresh Blueberries, Whipped Cream and Whiskey Caramel Sauce Caramel Apple Spice Cake with Apple Cider Frosting Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and Raspberry Sauce Selections from catering menu, Miller Bakery Café

short story SHORE

CONTEST

Shore loves short stories and the creativity that can be expressed through fiction alone.

To encourage storytellers, we would like to choose a winning entry to run in the online-exclusive issue of Shore publishing in Spring 2014 of the magazine. We believe that storytelling is an art form which should be encouraged and cultivated.

WHAT IS THE TIME FRAME? Short stories will be accepted from December 1, 2013 through January 15, 2014. Our judges will begin reading the stories right away, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hold back. Submit your story as soon as possible.

WHAT KIND OF STORIES ARE YOU LOOKING FOR? Short stories between 3,000 and 7,000 words are eligible, which must be the original work of the author. There are no set guidelines on subject matter. Entries may have been published or have won prizes before, as long as the author owns the publication rights.

WHEN WILL THE STORIES BE PUBLISHED? First prize is $500, second prize is $300 and third prize is $150. Judges may decide to give honorable mentions or award other prizes. The winners will be published beginning with the Spring 2014 online-exclusive issue of Shore magazine and on visitshoremagazine.com. The stories will also be published on nwi.com, the leading news website in the Northwest Indiana region, with 9 million pageviews each month.

WHAT IS THE FEE FOR ENTERING THE CONTEST? The reading fee for each story is $25. Writers can submit as many stories as they like.

4 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 4

HOW DO I SUBMIT A STORY? Stories may be submitted online using a credit card, or by mail with a check or money order attached to a manuscript. Please use a minimum 12 pt. font when submitting stories in Microsoft Word or PDF formats. Send manuscripts to: Short Story Contest Shore Magazine 601 W. 45th Ave Munster, IN 46321 Or go to nwi.com/shorecontest and follow the guidelines for electronic submission.

guide to

HOLIDAY GIFTING 2013

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

FAIR OAKS FARMS

MAKING AN IMPRESSION WITH THE PERFECT GIFT Indiana’s Fair Oaks Farm bring the ‘farm to table’ concept to the holiday season

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

n the rush of the holiday season, presents are handed back and forth in a flurry of stress and pressure to make sure everything gets crossed off a never ending to-do list. But when was the last time you made sure that your gift truly stood out from the rest?

Look no further than a gift from Indiana’s very own Fair Oaks Farms.

A destination for countless Northwest Indiana residents and curious tourists, Fair Oaks Farm represents all that is good about the great Midwest.

Serving as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Farm offers multiple opportunities for outdoor fun, food and learning about just what makes this country great. They also work hard to educate visitors about modern farming efforts and their commitment to protecting the environment and caring for their many animals.

Yet, many might have yet to utilize their award winning cheeses as the ultimate gift during this giftgiving season. Following the philosophy of Grass to Glass, Fair Oaks Farm’s long line of quality cheeses are generated by the very best quality from the very best cows who call the Farm home.

Ranging in price from $35 to $95, the exquisite gourmet gift selections from Indiana’s very own Fair Oaks Farm make an excellent gift for the cheese lover in your life. From the way they feed their cows to the quality of milk they use to make their cheeses, you can Fair Oaks Farms offers FREE SHIPPING on all Gift Collections. Order by Dec. 16 be sure that your gift will be remembered throughout to guarantee arrival by Dec. 24. the holiday season.

From 6 year old cheddars to Havarti Habanera upon natural gas and electricity during the milk and cheeses to a fresh mozzarella that you simply can’t find manufacturing process. at your local grocery store, Fair Oaks Farm’s long line of cheeses A dairy farm at its very core with the opening of their are known worldwide as award winners, especially their smoked Northwest Indiana Cheese Plant in 2003, it is indeed the Swiss variety of cheeses. farms that bring this ‘farm to table’ concept to life with their And as with any other gift, sometimes it’s the presentation dedication to produce the highest quality, best tasting cheeses to that makes the most impact. Packaged in a charming insulated their loyal cheese fans across the country. wooden crate box with the Fair Oaks Farm emblazoned on the A perfect gift for any family member, friend or business front, the gourmet gift packages from Fair Oaks Farms will make associate, Fair Oaks Farm offers free shipping for any gifts over quite an impression on family, friends and business associates. $49 and cold packs to ensure their product’s freshness once And while many of us tend to make our online purchases they arrive on one’s doorstep. Besides without much thought into who exactly we are supporting with offering a wide array of gift baskets our hard earned dollars, one can be sure that the Fair Oaks for any occasion, Fair Oaks Farm will Farms will put it to good use and furthering their mission FAIR OAKS FARMS provide friendly service and accessible to teach more and more people about the idea of “Reduce, 856 N 600 E ways to order our products for your Reuse, Recycle”. In fact, the farm has long been known for Fair Oaks, Ind. friends down the street or to your transforming their waste into energy by way of their anaerobic 219.394.2025 family across the country. digesters while at the same time reducing their dependency fofarms.com

GIFT GUIDE 2013

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ALBERT’S DIAMOND JEWELERS

MAKING THE PERFECT IMPRESSION WITH THE PERFECT GIFT Albert’s Diamond Jewelers continues their tradition of jewelry perfect for giving JONATHAN MIANO

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8 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 4

t’s about letting the gift speak the thousands of words you never could. It’s about finding that perfect present for the perfect person. It’s about handing over a box emblazoned with a bow and watching their eyes as they open the piece of jewelry you let your heart pick out for them.

Because while you might think the holidays are all about the parties and the to-do lists and the non-stop rush, it’s not. Sometimes all it’s about finally taking the time to celebrate all of life’s little moments with a piece of jewelry.

For over 100 years, Albert’s Diamond Jewelers and their dedicated staff has helped shoppers across Northwest Indiana celebrate all of life’s special moments with jewelry. A vital part of the Northwest Indiana community since 1905, Albert’s has grown from a tiny storefront in East Chicago to one of the largest and most successful family-owned jewelers in the entire country. And with 21,000 square feet of exceptional jewelry and brands to choose from like Cartier, Chopard and Tag Heuer, you can be sure to find the perfect present.

With over 100 employees ready and willing to serve your every gift giving need, there is always something new to discover at Albert’s Jewelers, including a number of new lines arriving just in time for this year’s holiday season. “I’m excited about so many of our new lines of jewelry and accessories, but in my heart I know some will really stand out to our customers,” explains Sara Brown, Marketing & Public Relations Manager for Albert’s Diamond Jewelers in Schererville. “Belle Étoile, for example, is an amazing painted enamel jewelry line which is not only fashionable but is at the perfect price point in terms of gift giving or finding something special for you.”

Other new lines for the upcoming season include Charriol, a line of twisted cable jewelry for women filled with ‘diamonds and dazzle,” Brown explains. And then there the widely popular and on trend line from Alex and Ani, a selection of wire bracelets focused on providing energy and positivity to the spirit. “At $28 a piece, it’s one of the most ideal and personal gifts we are carrying in the store, plus it’s perfect for all ages, even as young as tweens,” says Brown.

And while there once was a time men considered their wedding ring and a watch as all the jewelry they need, this is far from the case anymore. The new King Baby line offers countless gifting options for the man in your life, including bracelets,

cufflinks and belt buckles. “This jewelry for men is so on trend right now,” says Brown. “The skulls and crosses are not only super cool, but also allows the man in your life to express their individuality with jewelry, often for the very first time.”

And even though the store offers a wide selection of merchandise, often it is their amazing events that get customers in the door. From Ladies Night on December 5 which will include massages and nail techs to Men’s Night the following week where the men can actually purchase what the special women in their life picked out the week before, these sorts of events bring together Albert’s loyal community of customers.

“We are always looking for ways to ALBERT’S make these events more memorable DIAMOND than the year before,” remarks Brown, JEWELERS who adds that the store also contains a 711 Main St full size Pandora store. “At this year’s Schererville, Ind. Men’s Night for example, we will offer 219.322.2700 everything from scotch tastings to a raffle where someone will win a 2013 Southlake Mall Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe Bike.

Merrillville, Ind. It’s going to be an amazing event, and 219.769.1976 albertsjewelers.com an amazing holiday season.”

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

DR. CHERUKURI

FOR THE WOMAN THAT LOOKS OLDER THAN SHE FEELS The Weekend Lift is the perfect present for the vibrant person inside you

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our to-do list gets longer as the holiday season gets shorter, and during this time of happiness and cheer, you can’t seem to look in the mirror without grimacing at the reflection staring back at you.

You look tired.

And while it may be easy to blame it on the hustle and bustle of the season, you know the truth. Despite eating healthy and exercising regularly, your face simply does not represent the vibrant person that you are on the inside.

And frankly, you are tired of feeling this way.

If this is you, this just might be the holiday season when you treat yourself for a change. Created in 2003, the Weekend Lift is a mini-facelift of sorts, giving an overall lift to the neck and lower half of the face with a short recovery time (approximately 1 weekend, hence the name). A safer, quicker, and less expensive alternative to a full facelift, the Weekend Lift focuses primarily on trouble spots such as the neck, jowls and the lines around the nose and mouth. But perhaps most importantly, it serves as a way

to invest in you for a change.

“Women spend so much time taking care of others,” says Dr. Sreek Cherukuri, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and Northwest Indiana’s leader in minimally-invasive, no-downtime cosmetic procedures of the face and neck. “Maybe it’s time to celebrate the New Year by celebrating yourself for a change.

There is nothing better than matching the energy and youthfulness that is inside us with a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.”

Indeed, not loving the face staring back at you in the mirror is a common occurrence for baby boomers especially. “There was a time when being 65 years old meant slowing down and starting to get comfortable in that ole rocking chair,” explains Dr. Cherukuri, who also offers eyelid procedures for those men and women looking to get that youthful look back into their eyes.

“And while people are now all about self improvement, what they don’t realize is that no matter how much they are working out or eating healthy foods, it’s simply not going to stop the way their face is aging.”

“Frankly, my kids were tired of hearing me gripe about my face,” adds Beth Tonsoni, a satisfied patient of Dr. Cherukuri who received the Weekend Lift procedure five years ago at the age of 57. “To say that it changed the way I felt about myself would be a huge understatement. Being able to look in the mirror and love what I saw just hours after the procedure? Well, there was nothing like it. It was an amazing feeling.”

DR. CHERUKURI For a free, no-obligation 219.836.2201 consultation, call 219.836.2201 today.

TheWeekendLift.com

Weekend Lift Look 10 years younger by the Holidays with Dr. Sreek Cherukuri’s Weekend Lift. The Weekend Lift is a minor one hour procedure with dramatic results. For many, recovery is quick - about the length of 1 weekend (1-3 days).

Sreek Cherukuri, MD Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon | 219 836 2201 | www.TheWeekendLift.com

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by December 16, 2013 to see if you qualify ($100 value).

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

For a Free Consultation Call 219.836.2201

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

POPA HEATING & COOLING

SPECIALISTS IN COMFORT Popa Heating & Cooling remain committed to serving loyal customers DAN WALBRIDGE

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Pat Popa [left] chats with clients about heating and cooling options while her husband Nick [standing] looks on.

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POPA HEATING culture in our company is about always & COOLING providing the very best for our customers 2643 Highway Ave and doing the very best job we can.”

Highland, Ind. Of course, being a woman owned 219.838.7700 enterprise also helps draw and ultimately popahvac.com keep customers. “Many customers say that they picked us because we were the only company who truly listened to them and cared about their issues,” she says of the company, which first opened in 1968.

A Highland resident who stays quite active within the community, Popa says she takes pride in what she does for a living, and is proud of the work her company provides. “It’s not like I can go into Strack & Van Til with my head hanging, hiding from anyone I might see in the produce department,” she laughs. “Our customers are our neighbors and our friends.

We want to be sure they remain a satisfied customer.”

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

ocated in Northwest Indiana’s very own ‘downtown Mayberry’, Popa Heating & Cooling in Highland attracts its share of passersby. Some stop in for a cup of coffee.

Others enjoy some casual conversation. And no matter how long they stay, most can’t get over how nicely decorated the front office is.

I mean, this is a heating and cooling company, right?

“We are woman-owned, and it shows,” laughs Pat Popa, owner and operator of Popa Heating & Cooling. “It’s just a really happy environment around here. Every day is a fun and exciting adventure.

Providing quality services at fair prices, Popa Heating & Cooling is well versed in energy savings, manufacturer’s recommendations, building code requirements and federal laws that have an effect on today’s wide range of heating and cooling systems. As a premier TRANE comfort specialist dealer, Popa Heating & Cooling are specialists in knowing all about the latest and greatest products out there on the market. “I would have to say we have the best air cleaners on the market,” explains Popa of their extensive line of TRANE products. “We have customers to this point, have been living with allergies. With this particular system, we have them breathing better by the next day. And as a premier TRANE comfort specialist dealer, we get the exclusive on selling new products before other dealers, such as the brand new variable speed air conditioners.”

When you compare major household purchases, “People will spend 4-5 times more on a car than they ever do on a heating and cooling system, which will end up something they will actually spend much more time with,” comments Popa.

“We never want our customers to waste either money or comfort, so we love being there to come up with heating and cooling solutions.”

Often, this means comprehensive load calculations which involve formulas that look at a number of determining factors to ensure that the heating and/or cooling system is the right size for the home. “We often find, in large subdivisions for example, that a contractor has used a blueprint where they put the same size system in every home,” she says. “Yet, factors such as what direction the windows are facing are going to have an effect on that calculation.”

Another aspect that sets Popa Heating & Cooling apart from the competition is their inner pride in their work, a quality seldom seen these days. “We employ quality technicians who are not only highly trained with the very latest in technology, but also always have the customer’s interests first in their mind,” says Popa, who receives most new customers via positive referrals. “The

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RIAH SALON

AWARD-WINNING SERVICE MAKES FOR A GREAT GIFT

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their styling space for an image profile. This is when they take some time to get know you and what you’d like to achieve with your look before offering a variety of ideas. Our stylists do this with their guests on each visit to make certain that customers are continually satisfied.

Next, you’ll be transported to the tranquil RIAH Retreat. This is the enclosed shampoo room that provides a relaxing escape from daily stress and responsibility. Guests will experience RIAH’s signature head, neck and shoulder massage with a choice of three aromatherapy oils in preparation for further services in the custom styling space and/or color bar area.

What makes RIAH different, and so well known, is their above and beyond approach to service through the little extra touches. RIAH makes abundant strides to provide a peaceful haven for each and every guest. Collectively all of the small additions transform a typical salon visit into a memorable experience.

“Our goal is to be on top of every detail so you always have the best experience and the very best results,” Gwen adds. “We want you to feel special when you walk in the door and even more special when you leave.”

hether you’re visiting for the first time or a loyal guest, the RIAH Salon experience will make anyone’s holiday season unforgettable Established in 2002 by Rob and Gwen Shaver with the goal of bringing exceptional hair care hospitality and professionalism to the area, RIAH’s highlyeducated, cutting edge stylists pamper guests with a full-range of hair services. The key to the RIAH experience is the fact that you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable from the very first moment you walk through the door.

“We’re a full-service hair salon in an atmosphere that’s modern and rustic by design,” Gwen Shaver says. “It’s very comforting and relaxing here because we want our guests to feel pampered and cared for from the moment they walk in the door.”

The RIAH experience begins with a warm and friendly welcome by the salon coordinators.

They will make anyone feel right at home while they assist in preparing you for your visit with a variety of beverages, magazines and a tour of our salon for first-time guests.

Rob and Gwen Shaver, owners of RIAH Salon in Schererville.

After a tour, your stylist will bring you over to

RIAH SALON

8025 Wicker Ave . St. John, Ind. 219.365.6123 . riahsalon.com

Visit us @ www.riahsalon.com Best Hair Salon 2010, 2012, & 2013

An AwArD-winning ExpEriEncE AwAits You At RIAH RIAH’ss highly-educated, cutting edge stylists pamper guests 2 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 5

with a full-range of hair care ser services.

But, the key to the RIAH hair care experience is the fact that you’ll feel relaxed and comfor comfortable from the very first moment you walk through the door door.

Like Us on Facebook

8025 Wicker Avenue, venue, St. John, IN • Located in Tri-Town T Commons • 219 365 6123 Hours: Tuesday 10-8 Wednesday-Thursday ednesday-Thursday 12-8 Friday 9-5 Saturday 8-4

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

THEATRE AT THE CENTER

ENJOY LOCAL PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCES—ONLY AT THEATRE AT THE CENTER

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he holidays are here, and opportunities to gather with family and friends are plenty. Yet perhaps no other activity is as heartwarming and magical as the experience of seeing a professional production at Munster’s own Theatre at the Center. This year’s schedule of shows ranks high on the list as an excellent gift for the theatre-lover in your life!

One of the highlights of the 2013 TATC Season has to be the magical musical twist on the classic story A Christmas Carol— perfect for the entire family! As the ghosts visit him on Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge gets a chance for redemption as the audience revels in the story’s emotional power and the joy that comes with memorable music. Make your holiday celebration complete with TATC’s special events!

FREE WINE TASTING: Friday, Nov. 15, 2013 – with the purchase of a full price ticket.

FREE 2ND SATURDAY SYMPOSIUM: Saturday, Nov. 23, 2013 1:30 p.m. symposium, 2:30 p.m. performance featuring Jackie Penrod, scenic designer for A Christmas Carol.

TEENS BEHIND THE SCENES: Saturday, Nov. 30, 2013 All teens 13–18 will enjoy a 2:30 p.m. performance of A Christmas Carol and following the performance they will receive

free pizza and pop with an interactive post-show talk featuring members of the cast and creative team.

HOLIDAY BUFFET & THEATRE: Dec. 5th and Dec. 13th The magic of the season continues with TATC’s Theatre for Young Audiences production of The Velveteen Rabbit running Dec. 2 through Dec. 12, 2013. This musical adaptation inspired by the classic story of a stuffed toy rabbit made real by a child’s enduring love.

And of course, if you are still wondering what you will be up to when the clock strikes midnight this year, look no further than TATC! Ron Hawking is back with the revival of his smash hit show His Way including a musical salute to the films of Frank Sinatra, a remembrance of friends Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and others. Hawking and his rockin’ band will keep everyone grooving New Year’s Eve through Jan. 5, 2014. Make sure to call TATC regarding ways to make your performance complete by adding on the New Year’s Eve Buffet or Sunday Brunch!

Headed to a show at TATC? Join in the fun with their Coats for Kids Drive and help TATC give back to the community this holiday season. Simply bring in new winter coats, hats, scarves, mittens and/or gloves for kids ages 3-18, and you may enter to win two tickets to one of their 2014 Season Productions! It’s the time of giving and receiving, and unwrapping magical memories this holiday THEATRE AT THE CENTER season, and celebrating 1040 Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. all that we love!

219.836.3255 . TheatreAtTheCenter.com

November 14 to December 22, 2013

Share our 2014 Season with your Family OF

& Fr F iends!

sical

2014 Subscriptions & Gift Certificates Available!

FIRE

FEB. 20 – MAR. 30

The Musical

A

JULY Y 10 – AUG. 10 SEPT. 11 – OCT. 19 Make your Magical Memories today!

219-836-3255 TheatreAtTheCenter.com

MUSIC AL

ADAPTATION

NOV. 13 – DEC. 14 DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

MAY 1 – JUNE 1

NEW

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The Mu

GIFT GUIDE 2013

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AMBIANCE YOUR HOME, YOUR STORY

CUSTOMS IMPORTS BUTTERFINGERS

GETTING YOUR HOME HOLIDAY READY

DELECTABLE DELIGHTS

T

he weather is getting colder and the days are getting shorter, and for many Northwest Indiana residents, the idea of hibernating a bit doesn’t sound like such a bad idea…unless your home is far from feeling cozy!

Luckily, there are easy ways to make your house a home during the holidays, especially with the help of the décor specialists at Ambiance in St. John. Opening its doors this past August, owners Jan LeVan and Tina Hines say they love working with their clients to create a holiday feel in their own homes. “The holiday season is definitely one time where ‘less is more’ does NOT apply,” says LeVan. “Have fun and do it up big!”

And in the season of lights, don’t forget to add glitz and sparkle to your table tops, counters and even in more personal spaces like your bedroom and powder room.

“This is an incredible way to bring the holiday celebration AMBIANCE into every room,” says Hines.

YOUR HOME, “It’s important to not let YOUR STORY the whole idea of holiday 9490 Wicker Ave decorating overwhelm you.

St. John, Ind. Stop by and let us help you tell 219.558.0748 ambiancehomestory.com ‘your holiday story.’”

“It’ss a Merry Extravaganza at Ambiance” ...Stop by to see New & Exciting Décor for your Home and Seasonal Items for your Holiday Gatherings

B

utterfingers prepares a selection of ready-to-heatand-eat entrees, along with freshly baked breads and salads, all without preservatives. Butterfingers’ two pastry chefs, whose training hails from the Culinary Institute of America in New York, and Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island, create an array of desserts, including beautifully decorated and delicious cakes, and an assortment of cookies and brownies, all of which have been satisfying dessert lovers for BUTTERFINGERS thirty years.

921 Ridge Rd #D The Highland location has Munster, Ind. recently expanded with a larger 219.836.4202 lunch menu and seating for over 2552 45th Ave 30. Butterfingers has maintained Highland, Ind. a reputation in the area for quality 219.924.6464 for decades.

Owner Robert Haynes says, “We have the most loyal and wonderful customers. I’m still putting the same customer checks in the bank deposit that I did 30 years ago, when we first opened.”

Sugar and Spice makes Holidays Nice!

Scrumptious gourmet baked goods including cakes, cupcakes, brownies, cookies and more perfect for holiday entertaining.

Or delight your guest with our homemade salads, croissants, breads and party trays.

Voted Best

Bakery, Caterer and Place for a Sandwich

4 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 5

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm Closed Sunday 9490 Wicker Ave., St John, IN (219) 558-0748

www.ambiancehomestory.com

Co-Owners: Jan LeVan and Tina Hines

www.butterfingersbakery.com Highland, IN | 2552 45th Avenue Munster, IN | 921 D Ridge Road

219.924.6464 219.836.4202

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

MARUSZCZAK APPLIANCE

INDULGE YOUR INNER CHEF AT MARUSZCZAK APPLIANCE!

M

aking the decision to purchase or upgrade to high-end appliances can be a difficult one. The number one factor, as is the case with many decisions in life, is the money. Top of the line appliances are certainly more expensive, but there are a few factors that might make that leap sound more reasonable.

Take a look at an industry-exclusive platinum interior refrigerator from KitchenAid. The unique interior finish is a brilliant reason to see everything this refrigerator has to offer. The Preserva Food Care System helps keep lettuce fresh up to four days longer and extends the freshness of produce up to 25%. Complimenting these innovations, premium craftsmanship is on display in every drawer, shelf and bin.

Learn more at kitchenaid.com.

Right now may be a good time to make your dream kitchen a reality!

MARUSZCZAK Maruszczak Appliance has been serving APPLIANCE the Calumet Region for more than 7809 W Lincoln Hwy 25 years, and has licensed installers Schererville, Ind. and service techs who are trained and 219.865.0555

COURTESY OF KITCHENAID

certified in high-end appliances. Maruszczak will work with you from start to finish to make sure that you have the best possible experience! Maybe it’s time to treat yourself and wow your friends with a fabulous new kitchen. The Maruszczaks would love to help you make that happen!

TAKE A REVEALING LOOK AT

FRESHNESS Introducing an industry-exclusive platinum interior.

The unique interior finish is a brilliant reason to see everything this refrigerator has to offer. The Preserva® Food Care System helps keep lettuce fresh up to four days longer* and extends the freshness of produce up to 25% .** Complementing these innovations, premium craftsmanship is on display in every drawer, shelf, and bin. Learn more at kitchenaid.com. *Compared to KitchenAid® 27 cu. ft. French door refrigerators with single evaporators. **Based on commonly pur chased produce. ®

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www.maruszczak.com

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

M & Th 8:30am-8pm • Tues.Wed. Fri. 8:30am-6pm • Sat. 8:30am-5pm • Closed Sunday

/™ ©2013 KitchenAid. All rights reserved.

7809 W. Lincoln Highway (Rt.30 & Cline) • 219-865-0555

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIOVANNI’S

NORTHWEST INDIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

NWI’S PREMIER ITALIAN CUISINE EXPERIENCE

P

rocopio LoDuca immigrated to the United States as a young boy. He achieved the dream of owning his own restaurant and began Giovanni’s on July 1, 1966.

Pro’s wife Nancy and daughter Mary continue to run Giovanni’s in a way that he would be proud of.

Giovanni’s offers expertly prepared veal, pasta, seafood and other Italian delicacies. The numerous dishes Chef Chris Pohl prepares daily will be decided upon early each morning, based on the availability of the market. Chef Pohl is eager to please you with his daily effort of serving fine food. Our staff is here to explain the various dishes prepared by our chef and to expertly serve them to you during your Giovanni’s experience.

Book your holiday parties and events today . . . here at the restaurant, at your home, or office. Giovanni’s is available for catering large parties (50 person minimum) at your home or business. Our main dining room is available Saturday afternoons from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Reservation requires a minimum of 30 guests and can accommodate up to 60. Advance reservation required and special menu GIOVANNI’S applies. Giovanni’s gift certificates 603 Ridge Rd available . . . Always a gift in good taste!

Munster, Ind. All items available for carry-out.

219.836.6220

C e l e b r ating

4 7

y ea r s

Join our Family this Holiday Season.

We offer expertly prepared Pasta, Veal, Risotto, Seafood and Steak cooked to perfection!

Be sure to save room for our Delicious Desserts.

Giovanni's gift cards make the perfect gift!

GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC

T

he Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra is the perfect gift for the music lover in your life. Our 2013-2014 season still features a variety of concerts sure to please. Our Valentine’s Day concert will feature a concert version of the opera Tosca by Puccini.

Featuring guest singers and the Symphony Chorus, this is a perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Day. Two intertwined pianos will take center stage in March played by award winning pianists Marta Aznavoorian and Winston Choi at Dueling Pianos. The concert will feature a musical medley that is fun for concertgoers of all ages.

The Symphony Chorus will perform with Monroe Crossing in April on The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass, blending the classical mass with modern choral work, touching poetry and traditional bluegrass instrumentation. Popular violinist Corey Cerovsek returns with his “Milanollo” Stradivarius of 1728 to play Barber’s Violin Concerto before the Symphony performs Mahler’s First Symphony in May. Also, the Symphony will perform a special concert, Symphony Goes to the Movies, in June.

Tickets are $25-$65 and students are always just $10.

NORTHWEST Tickets for the Bluegrass INDIANA SYMPHONY Mass are general admission ORCHESTRA $25 for adults and still $10 219.836.0525 for students. nisorchestra.org

2013-2014

season Kirk Muspratt - Music Director & Conductor

Holiday PoPs A South Shore Tradition!

Featuring the Symphony Chorus & the Eisenhower Elementary School Choir

Thursday, December 12 7:30pm • Star Plaza Theatre

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Make your Holiday Reservations now!

Our spirited orchestra and Symphony Chorus will help you get in the holiday spirit with our ever-popular holiday extravaganza featuring familiar favorites and new discoveries sure to delight!

Celebrate with family and friends to a carol sing-along. Children from Eisenhower Elementary School in Crown Point will perform. Plus, be on the lookout for a visit from that jolly fellow from the North Pole.

Private parties and on-site catering available.

Call for more information.

TICKETS $25-$65 • STUDENTS $10

603 Ridge Road, MunsteR, in | 219-836-6220 www.giosmunster.com

For Tickets: 219/836.0525 or nisorchestra.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIFT GUIDE 2013

EMERALD AVENUE MARKET

GIFT LOCAL Emerald Avenue brings artisans selections home for the holidays

of a smooth Cabernet Franc or crisp Pinot Grigio.

Stop by the Jollay Orchards Market for a wide assortment of farm-grown jams, jellies, local honey, fresh pastries and pies. Kids of all ages will love the collection of wood-crafted toys, plush animals, farm puzzles and dinosaurs—just like those found at Grandpa’s Cider Mill’s Dinosaur Farm.

Gifting a share in Molter Family Orchards’ Community Supported Agriculture program will provide weekly packages of organic produce through a 15-week harvest. Your gift will be remembered as fresh fruits and vegetables are transformed into favorite family recipes.

Start your shopping at theemeraldavenue.com for member sites, gift ideas and contact information.

EMERALD AVENUE MARKET

3401 Friday Rd . Coloma, Mich. . Just off I-94 Exit 39 theemeraldavenue.com . Find us on Facebook

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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ast the snow-capped evergreens, through the crosscountry skiing trails and just beyond the warm glow from the family hearth, you’ll find the Emerald Avenue. Residents and travelers alike welcome the rustic beauty that unfolds each season in Southwest Michigan. The fresh, local, savory foods and artisan goods found at Emerald Avenue’s collection of family-owned farms are perfect whether you’re preparing a meal to share or looking for that perfect holiday gift.

Contessa Wine Cellars offers bottle cork keepsakes and wine glasses that are simple yet elegant.

Celebrate any occasion with a bottle

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Presented by New Buffalo Business Association New Buffalo-Michigan

Saturday, November 30 • 9am – 6pm Satur • 9am-Noon Breakfast w/ Santa- Michigan Thyme Cafe.

Please call 269-469-6604 for reservations • 10am-4pm Boy Scouts pack #802 will be selling Christmas wreaths at the corner of Whittaker and Hwy. 12 wr • 11am - Small Business Saturday kick-off. Shop Local this holiday at small businesses, show your support for local economy and avoid the big box stores. “Like” our Facebook page at New Buffalo to find out about free events at particiBuf pating businesses on this day!

• 4pm - Santa & his Reindog Parade - downtown Whittaker St. • 5pm - Complimentary hot cider and cookies at New Buffalo Yacht Club 500 West Water St. • 6pm - Tree lighting and caroling at tree on corner of N. Whittaker and Mechanic streets

Saturday, February 1

•

6:30pm

Escape the winter blues and have a Chocolate Fantasy celebration at New Buffalo Business Association’s Second Season Ball.

• 6:30-7:30EST Open bar and hors d’ouevres. Try our signature Chocolate Martini!

• 7:45pm Dinner • Dancing til midnight with music by Middle of the Road Band • Spectacular silent auction • Tickets $80 each Four Winds Casino Resort Silver Creek Event Center 11111 Wilson Rd. New Buffalo, MI For information and tickets, please call Linda at 269-612-8797 or 888-660-6222 Tickets available at Custom Imports, Shops at Customs, Casey’s, and Michigan Thyme

Saturday & Sunday February 1-2 • Saturday 12pm – 5pm Free Sleigh Rides. Pick-up and drop off at Info Booth on corner of N. Whittaker & Merchant Streets • Saturday 12 – 4pm Ice Sculpting • Saturday and Sunday 10am – 10pm Ice Skating at Oselka Park 601 E. Indiana St. New Buffalo, bring your own skates • Sunday Breakfast Special Chocolate Chip Pancake Breakfast at Michigan Thyme 269-469-6604

www.newbuffalo.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIFT GUIDE 2013

NEW BUFFALO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

SHOP SMALL: SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

I

NEW BUFFALO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION newbuffalo.org

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SHOP SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY IN NEW BUFFALO

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

n 2010, small businesses across America joined forces with American Express to begin trying to regain public support for small hometown local merchants.

Before the days of Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot and the like, were small brick and mortar stores and department stores where American families made everyday purchases like televisions, vacuums, tools, home goods, groceries and clothing. Little towns across America had one main street and some even had a stop light! They were filled with small shops, a butcher, a baker and a church and yet families somehow seemed to find all they needed. It was here that people read the paper over a morning coffee at the local cafe, sought the advice of the seasoned expert at the hardware store and made friends with the gals at the bank or in the grocery store. It seemed as though in a blink of an eye, things changed . . . big time!

In the last two decades large retail chains have become some of the most powerful corporations in America. The extraordinary impact of big box stores has been seen in every state across the country. Some even argue that big box retail is responsible for skyrocketing gasoline consumption, failing family farms, higher local unemployment rates and the decline in revenue that goes back into the local economy. In support of small businesses everywhere, American Express stepped up to the plate in 2010 and created Small Business Saturday®. It has since become an American shopping holiday and is held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. It is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which feature big box retail and e-commerce stores. By contrast, this holiday encourages shoppers to patronize locally owned brick and mortar businesses.

American Express has publicized their initiative using social media like Facebook, Twitter and other public relations campaigns. When you register your American Express credit card, you are eligible to receive a $10 credit on your statement when you spend $10 at a participating business on Small Business Saturday, which is November 30th this year.

We invite you to shop New Buffalo for your holiday gift giving.

We have many shops, unique boutiques, extraordinary galleries, and a host of great restaurants and services that offer gift cards as well. Watch for the Shop Small® logos and signs throughout town while you are shopping. Visit newbuffalo.org for a complete list of New Buffalo Business Association members and read about the unique things you will find in our little town.

As you enter town you will be drawn right down our main street, overlooking Lake Michigan. We will meet you at the café for coffee, help you choose the right gift, offer a smile and a handshake and thank you for stopping by. There are still places in America where you’ll find a sense of community pride in small business and New Buffalo is one of them; hope to see you soon!

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CUSTOMS IMPORTS

CUSTOMS IMPORTS

PRESENTS

A GRAND WAY TO SHOP

Funky casual, cocktail chic to black Tie

Friday december 6, 2013 6-9:30Pm eST

Social and business networking delectable Food and Great wine incridible musical Talent karaoke with the Stars 430 S. whiTTaker new buFFalo, mi 269.469.9180 cuSTomSimPorTS.com

Shop while you Party

TickeTS AvAilAble AT cuSTOmS imPORTS (bOTH lOcATiONS) $20 (RefuNDAble WiTH PuRcHASe Of PRODucT) 269-469-9180

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NORA DUFFY

WINTER MAGIC Customs Imports’ The Grand Party the hottest event of the season

H

oliday season is party season and the season kicks-off with the 9th Annual THE GRAND PARTY at Customs Imports on Friday, December 6 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. EST. The party has become a tradition in Harbor Country with crowds drawn from Chicago to Grand Rapids— and places around the world.

Organized to perfection, not a detail overlooked, The Grand Party will again feature marvelous food from Harbor Country’s revered sponsors: Timothy’s, Sahara’s, Skip’s, Grateful Diner and Casey’s.

Tables are covered with goodies and dishes that tempt even the most dedicated dieter! Wine, beer and champagne bars are abundant.

Believe me, Martha Stewart on her very best day couldn’t top Dee Dee Duhn’s The Grand Party!

The music is top-notch and thoroughly enjoyable. Sit back and enjoy the famous (and the infamous) belt out a karaoke song or hit the dance floor hit the dance floor with entertainment from the best of the Midwest!

What to wear? You will see a wide an astonishing variety.

Men wear suits, tuxes, sweaters, khakis. Some women wear gala dresses, lots of fluff and stuff. Other women break out their cocktail dresses and some come straight from the office.

One more thing—ladies are asked to bring a gift of lipstick for Dee Dee’s annual trip to Bali where she gifts her Balinese women friends. And the social and business networking doesn’t get any better! What a way to shop and par-ty!

TICKET INFO With limited space it is wise to call for your tickets; they can be mailed or held for pick-up at the door.

Tickets available at Customs Imports (both locations) $20 (refundable with purchase of product). Call 269.469.9180 for more information.

CUSTOMS IMPORTS

430 S Whittaker St New Buffalo, Mich.

269.469.9180 customsimports.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIFT GUIDE 2013

INDIAN SUMMER BOUTIQUE

TASTY OLIVE COMPANY

INDIAN SUMMER BRINGS CLASSICAL STYLE TO THE SOUTH SHORE

NATURAL MEDITERRANEAN FOODS TO TEMPT ANY PALATE

E

lise Mauro’s Indian Summer Boutiques, locations in New Buffalo and Chesterton, are brimming with hand-picked, fine-tuned selections of hip and sophisticated fashion pieces for the holidays and beyond. These shops have everything a girl needs to get through a season of brunches and party hopping.

The boutiques have a cult-like following of women shopping for investment pieces of high fashion to keep them ahead of the curve as well as those looking for that special seasonal standout perfect for special occasions.

The Sympli the Best clothing line, produced in Canada of the finest jersey material, is a specialty of Indian Summer.

“Available in sizes 2 to 26, the line has over 600 styles and 30 colors. We can order whatever we don’t have. Whether you’re INDIAN SUMMER shopping for the club or the BOUTIQUE cubicle, it’s great for mixing and 126 S Whittaker St matching and it never goes out of New Buffalo, Mich. style,” says Mauro.

269.469.9994 For those hard-to-buy-for friends, consider a gift certificate 131 S Calumet Rd from Indian Summer—sure to be Chesterton, Ind. a crowd pleaser.

219.983.9994

T

he Holidays are a time of giving and sharing and the Tasty Olive Company is all about both.

The idea of sharing great food starts with great products. The Tasty Olive Company specializes in quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world, not only extra virgin olive oils but fused and infused flavors that elevate any meal to new heights.

To supplement these products, visit the pasta display where all products come directly from a small distributor in Italy. Add the olives, special sauces, flavored sea salts, and finish the meal with biscotti directly from the Gourmet Goddess in Munster, Indiana.

A complete line of quality, TASTY OLIVE healthy products are available COMPANY right in Highland, Indiana. The 2014 45th St Tasty Olive Company can create (Porte de Leau Plaza) unique gift baskets for holiday Highland, Ind. shopping. Stop in or call for 219.924.7881 tastyolivecompany.com more information.

Indulge in our high-quality gourmet olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

We offer carefully, hand selected products from around the world that will tantalize your tastebuds.

All olive oils and balsamics can be tasted before you buy!

Holiday Open Houses Nov 29 - Dec 1 We also carry handmade pastas from Italy, locally made biscotti, and a few specialty items including spices, bread mixes and sea salts.

Highland, IN 46322 219.924.7881 Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm or Sat: 10am-3pm

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2014 45th Street

(Porte de Leau Plaza)

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Custom gift baskets available with your favorite items.

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

We believe visits to the Lake arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for vacations

Union Pier

$4,900,000

New Buffalo

$2,998,000

New Buffalo

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New Buffalo

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3 Preserve Way 4 Bedrooms/5.2 Baths 269.469.3950

47007 Lake View 5 Bedrooms/4.2 Baths 269.469.3950

11450 Marquette Dr 5 Bedrooms/7.2 Baths 269.469.3950

New Buffalo

New Buffalo

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New Buffalo

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Harbert

Union Pier

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New Buffalo

New Buffalo

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11121 Vineyard Way 4 Bedrooms/3.1 Baths 269.469.3950

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16200 Water Tower Pl 2 Bedrooms/2 Baths 269.469.3950

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New Buffalo 57 Harbor Isle Dr 1 Bathroom 269.469.3950

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 10 N. Whittaker Street | New Buffalo, MI 269.469.3950 | ColdwellBankerOnline.com Call Coldwell Banker Home Loans for your FREE mortgage pre-approval at 219.286.2211

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

$35,055,000

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Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Leading Harbor Country Luxury Real Estate * Properties sold for $750,000+ from 1/1/2013 to 9/30/2013

$8,126,000

@Properties Harbor Country

H

arbor Country’s luxury real estate market is on the rise with more and more people ready to buy, sell and invest in second homes again. In response to the demand for luxury buyers and sellers, Coldwell Banker Previews International has been dedicated to providing the most sophisticated tools, resources and marketing programs necessary to create a five star experience for our clients.

$6,885,000

Olson Real Estate

$6,380,000

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Crawford Group Sotheby’s Int’l

Farley Real Estate, Inc.

...we have sold more homes in Harbor Country than any other real estate company and over four times more than the nearest competitor.

Prudential Rubloff Properties

connections to surrounding areas such as Chicagoland, Indiana, and Wisconsin, whose residents are drawn to the Southwest Michigan way of life. We truly understand the second home lifestyle that our clients seek and embrace the unique nuances that make Harbor Country such a wonderful place to call home. As a result, we have sold more homes in Harbor Country than any other real estate company and over four times more than the nearest competitor.*

Whether you are considering buying or selling a luxury property in Harbor Country, turn to Coldwell Banker Previews International to find your dream home away from home.

10 N. Whittaker Street | New Buffalo, MI 49117 | 269.469.3950 COLDWELLBANKERPREVIEWS.COM ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker®, the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Previews International Logo are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Operated by Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Coldwell Banker Previews Property Specialists are uniquely qualified with the expertise required to represent your personal interests and handle Harbor Country’s exceptional properties. Many of our Previews Property Specialists who are proud to call Harbor Country home also have strong

$5,612,000

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DECORATING DEN INTERIORS

A SPOT OF HOME IN SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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fter decades of calling Ann Arbor home, empty nesters Deborah and Mike Stevens found themselves relocated to beautiful Southwest Michigan. Before settling into their charming 1930s home, Deb and Mike wished to freshen up the look a bit and choose new furnishings that reflect their personalities while remaining in keeping with the traditional style of their new home.

Desiring to get it right the first time, they decided to interview interior designers.

“I met with Jenny and another interior designer and chose Jenny for a few reasons,” says Deborah Stephens.

“Jenny listened well, asked thoughtful questions, and seemed to ‘get’ our priorities and aesthetic preferences.”

Deborah also notes that Decorating Den’s full service approach is perfect for those who don’t enjoy shopping.

When Deborah sat down to review the designs specially created for her home, she says, “It was uncanny how well she nailed the colors, styles and degree of formality that suited us.”

From there it was a simple process to order the window treatments, lighting, rugs and furniture.

“The quality of the furniture is wonderful and our rooms look so beautiful, and yet feel like ‘us,’ not like a magazine spread or someone else’s home,” Deborah says. “Everything functions really well for us too—the furniture is practical and comfortable. I think Jenny struck the perfect balance of attentiveness to our tastes and application of her talents to create a more beautiful home than we could have ourselves.”

From the first visit, Decorating Den Owner/Designer, Jenny Mitschelen comes ready to listen and ready to work.

She helps her clients define and prioritize their design wish lists, as well as determine a timeline for turning design concepts into completed dream rooms. The efficiency and professionalism that Decorating Den offers is unlike any other. Jenny’s unique process allows her clients the luxury of having selections brought to them and the entire design pulled together from the comfort of their homes. This personalized service is meant to save clients time and energy.

The often overwhelming task of shopping and selecting home furnishings and finishes is avoided DECORATING and the number of appointments DEN INTERIORS minimized. If you’re serious about 269.266.7094 getting your rooms pulled together, jennymitschelen.

Decorating Den is the place to call. decoratingden.com

~ APPROACHABLE ELEGANCE ~ ~ ENDURING DESIGN ~

Call Now for your complimentary in-home consultation Jenny Mitschelen

owner/designer

269.266.7094 jennym@decoratingden.com jennymitschelen.decoratingden.com

GIFT GUIDE 2013

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p U m War inter Fun W h t i w John and Dede Howard Ice Arena Opens Thanksgiving, Thursday November 28 4:00 p.m.

2414 Willa Drive, St. Joseph For a complete open skate schedule, visit www.sjcity.com.

Light Up the Bluff

Presented by St. Joseph Improvement Association

Friday, December 6 Christmas Tree Lighting 6:30 p.m.

Lit through February 15th Lake Bluff Park

Live Mannequins!

Presented by Edgewater Bank & the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council

Friday, December 6 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Downtown St. Joseph

Reindog Parade Presented by FuzzyButz

Saturday, December 7 4:00 p.m.

State Street in downtown St. Joseph

2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off Friday, January 31 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Downtown St. Joseph

10th Annual Magical Ice Fest Presented by Silver Beach Pizza

Stay with us for a weekend or longer…

St. Joseph, MI

St.JosephToday

Stevensville, MI

February 7-9 Downtown St. Joseph

Benton Harbor , MI

Stevensville, MI

stjoetoday.com/sleep • (269) 985-1111 • facebook.com/stjoetoday

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIFT GUIDE 2013

ST. JOSEPH TODAY

VISIT ST. JOSEPH FOR WINTER FUN

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Searching for that perfect gift? St. Joseph offers a variety of stores for shopping. Find jewelry that sparkles, cozy clothing, toys that will bring hours of fun, unique art pieces, or a special treat for your furry friend. Need to shop later in the evening?

Visit stjoetoday.com for a list of extended store hours through the holidays.

LIVE MANNEQUINS! Friday, December 6, 6:30pm–8:30pm Visitors can enjoy seeing participating merchant windows come to life with Holiday Cheer! Community volunteers pose

15TH ANNUAL REINDOG PARADE Saturday, December 7, 4pm This must-see event is a favorite holiday tradition in St. Joseph as pets and their owners dress up in various holiday costumes and parade down State Street.

2ND ANNUAL CHILI TOUR January 31, 5-8pm Take some time to warm up this winter as downtown merchants host the 2nd Annual Chili Tour. Participating locations or “Chili Stops” will have samples of their best chili for you to try.

10TH ANNUAL MAGICAL ICE FEST February 7-9pm An entire weekend of fun is scheduled for the 10th Annual Magical Ice Fest. Things kick off on Friday with the individual carving competition, fire and ice display and a reception featuring live music, cash bar and more. Saturday, watch teams create icy masterpieces from eight blocks of ice, catch a magic show and ST. JOSEPH TODAY join in the fun of Ice Wars!

269.985.1111 Visit magicalicefest.com for stjoetoday.com more information. facebook.com/stjoetoday

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

ICE SKATING AT THE JOHN AND DEDE HOWARD ICE ARENA Lace up your skates and enjoy one of winter’s great outdoor activities! The John and Dede Howard Ice Arena opens for the season on Thursday, November 28. Visit sjcity.com for a complete schedule.

perfectly still as they depict scenes from holiday movies, stories, songs and more.

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ay hello to winter! There will be no need to hibernate this season with St. Joseph, Mich. just a short trip away. You will find a variety of fun and unique events to help you and your family enjoy every minute of these chillier months. Visitors will find everything from live mannequin shows to a chili tour to a nationally-certified ice festival— events that are sure to be enjoyed by all ages.

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

40+ GIFT IDEAS from our advertisers

ALBERTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DIAMOND JEWELERS 711 Main St . Schererville, Ind. 219.322.2700 Westfield Southlake Mall . Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.1976 albertsjewelers.com

Michael Kors Ladies Watch This ladies Michael Kors watch has a PVD rose plating PVD rose plating case and is powered by a quartz movement. It is fitted with a rose metal bracelet and has a salmon dial. The high-fashion accessory is available for $225. The watch can also be purchased with a gold bracelet.

King Baby Silver Skull Mens Bracelet

This luxurious menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bracelet features an edgy look, with 8mm Black Onyx Bead Bracelet with Silver Skull. For the sartorialist in your life, look no further than this accessory, sure to set any man apart. This bracelet is available for $190.

Honora Fresh Pearl Drop Earrings

This set of Sterling Silver 8-9mm Black Round Ringed Freshwater Cultured Pearl and 8mm Pave Crystal Bead Drop Earrings are the perfect compliment to an elegant ensemble for an evening out, or even for an everyday look. Coordinating styles are also available. This set can be yours for $80.

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LeVian Diamond Cluster Ring

The LeVian Diamond Cluster Ring brings high fashion with a little bit of sparkle to the holiday celebrations. This ring boasts a 85cttw diamond cluster set in stunning and fashion-forward 14k rose gold. This luxurious product can be purchased for $1,850, with a coordinating pendant available for $1,550.

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

THE EMERALD AVENUE

This holiday season, you can’t go wrong with the wonderful and local selections available at 3401 Friday Road, Coloma, Mich.

The Emerald Avenue Just off I-94 Exit 39 in beautiful Coloma, theemeraldavenue.com Michigan. For veggie lovers, try a weekly box of organic produce through a 15-week harvest when you purchase a share in Molter Family Orchards’ Community Supported Agriculture program. Or try a wide and delectable assortment of farm-grown jams, jellies, local honey, wood-crafted toys, plush animals, farm puzzles and so much more from Jollay Orchard Markets. For the wine lover on your list, Contessa Wine try a bottle of a smooth Cabernet Franc or crisp Pinot Grigio. Prices vary.

Gift Local.

Wrap up flavor this holiday season with sweet ciders, jams made from fresh local fruit, oak-aged wines, fresh baked pastr ies and Community Supported Agricultur al gift certificates from the Emerald Aven ue.

THEEMERALDAVENUE.com for membe

r sites, winter hours and gift ideas

AMBIANCE YOUR HOME, YOUR STORY 9490 Wicker Ave 219.558.0748 ambiancehomestory.com

Adorable Ceramic Snowman

NORTHWEST INDIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 1040 Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. 219.836.0525 . nisorchestra.org

Symphony Tickets

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Give the gift of music with a selection of tickets to our very own Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra! Attendees can enjoy a variety of musical offerings such as the Valentine’s Day performance of the opera Tosca in concert. Another can’t-miss show is Dueling Pianos featuring pianists Marta Aznavoorian and Winston Choi face to face center stage in March. The Symphony Chorus performs a Bluegrass Mass in April with Monroe Crossing, and popular violinist Corey Cerovsek returns in May. With Ticket prices ranging from $25 to $65, this is an affordable way to share the love of music, right here in Northwest Indiana.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Give your home the perfect holiday accessory with Ambiance’s Glittered Snowman.

This adorable snowman is 9” tall, made of porcelain, The sun must be hot that day, because he looks like he is melting. The snowman also features Wintered Berry arms and a cute smile, topped with a black hat. This adorable ceramic snowman is featured this Holiday Season for $20—It’s a Merry Extravaganza at Ambiance.

GIFT GUIDE 2013

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THEATRE AT THE CENTER 1040 Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. 219.836.3255 . TheatreAtTheCenter.com

Give the Gift of Theatre!

Put you and your loved ones front and center for 5 great shows at Theatre at the Center—Northwest Indiana’s only professional theatre. Subscribe to our 2014 Season and get the best seats, the best prices (save up to 33% over single ticket prices) and the best entertainment all year long!

Loves kids!

BUTTERFINGERS

2552 45th Ave . Highland, Ind. . 219.924.6464 921 D Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. . 219.836.4202 butterfingersbakery.com

Butterfingers Gift Certificates

Give the dessert lover on your list a gift certificate to the area’s most notable dessert shop. Voted Best Bakery and Best Caterer, Butterfingers offers cakes, cupcakes, cookies, small desserts, salads, sandwiches, wraps, sweet trays, specialty holiday menus and more. Gift certificates available in any denomination.

Gift certificates are the perfect gift for the kids in your life! Gift certificates may be used for our productions and Education through Theatre classes and workshops that provide students of all ages the opportunity to learn from professional actors and directors at Theatre at the Center.

SREEK CHERUKURI MD, FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON 801 MacArthur Blvd, #302 . Munster, Ind. 99 E 86th Ave . Merrillville, Ind. 219.836.2201 . theweekendlift.com

Botox

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Enjoy younger-looking skin in time for the holiday season. Botox can smooth those wrinkles and frown lines and make you look as young as you feel. Call Dr. Cherukuri at 219.836.2201 to schedule your free consultation and enjoy 10% off of any Botox treatments (up to $100 savings). Please call

by January 17, 2014 to take advantage of this limited-time offer.

Restylane

This is your opportunity to make your skin look young and rejuvenated for the new year! Restylane can fill in the wrinkles and frown lines and give you sexy, irresistible lips! Call Dr. Cherukuri at 219.836.2201 to schedule your free consultation and enjoy a 2cc Restylane treatment for $799 (save over $200).

Please call by January 17, 2014 to take advantage of this limited-time offer.

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 10 N Whittaker St . New Buffalo, Mich.

269.469.3950 . ColdwellBankerOnline.com

49001 Ridge Rd, New Buffalo

13868 Jane Way, Harbert

261 Shoreview Way, St. Joseph

278 Ridgeway, St. Joseph

Reminiscent of the cottages of Newport, RI, this lakefront residence offers the luxury of large scale rooms, wonderful architectural details, custom builtins and expansive lake views. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan with 100 feet of littoral lake frontage, this property features a level walkout to the water’s edge providing total ease of access. Manicured grounds with a tennis court combine to create one of the finest properties in SW Michigan—and only 90 minutes from downtown Chicago. Totally renovated in 2004 this home features an expansive living room with coffered ceiling, a spectacular kitchen. Amenities include a gated entry and brick driveway, an elevator, a fitness center with kitchenette, a game room, a home theater and a pool room. $4,499,000.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Delightful condo with Great River Views. Two 40 ft. boat slips are included with this open, bright and airy 2/3 bedroom condo. Ceramic tiled foyer and kitchen. Berber carpeting in great room, dining area, bedrooms and loft.

Vaulted ceilings, corner gas fireplace in great room with ceiling to floor windows and sliders facing the river. Two and a half baths, Maytag stacked washer and dryer. Skylights throughout, spiral oak staircase going up to loft. Very nicely laid out floor plan. Kitchen, dining area and great room offer water views. Back deck for outside enjoyment. Minutes to the quaint town and sandy beaches of St. Joseph. $299,000.

Welcome to Harbert Prairie’s first model home, a lovely prairie-inspired home with gorgeous natural finishes that perfectly suites this Open Space Preservation Development. Discover luxury features like an open concept gourmet kitchen, beautiful wood flooring, gorgeous wood trim throughout, and a spacious screen porch that includes a fireplace and wood-fired pizza oven! Just one of several floorplans available. Harbert Prairie offers 12 acres of open space with trails in a private setting. Just a short bike ride away are the soaring dunes of Warren Dunes State Park and the Chikaming Community Beach. Centrally located between Sawyer, Harbert and Three Oaks, Harbert Prairie is designed to protect and preserve the natural beauty of southwest Michigan. $479,000.

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Exquisitely finished, Scandinavian-inspired lakefront home with full horizon views in a private setting. This 6 BR, 4.5 BA green-built home meets standards for maintenancefree living with low/no-VOC materials. Video surveillance, alarm system and thermostat can be remotely controlled. Pre-wired for smart technology and music. This 4700 sf of living space offers open main level sitting, dining and luxuriously equipped gourmet kitchen with lake view breakfast bar. Upper floors have 5 BR, family room, luxurious master bedroom with spa bath, including open-air shower with lake views, private decks and full second kitchen. With 3500+ SF of cedar decks and limestone patios, and breathtaking lakefront views, this is a dream home just minutes from downtown New Buffalo and only 70 miles from downtown Chicago. $2,795,000.

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CIAO BELLA RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA, WINEBAR

1514 US 41 . Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 . ciaobellaonline.com

CIAO BELLA GIFT CARDS

1514 US 41 • Schere rville, IN 46375 219.322.6800 • www.c iaobellaonline.com

Give the gift of good taste. Ciao Bella offers a full array of homemade Italian style thin crust pizzas, risottos, pastas, soups and salads. Entrees include chicken, fish, veal and steak prepared with many original recipes. Ciao Bella serves as an ideal place to gather family and friends. Ciao Bella Gift Cards make the perfect gift and are available in any denomination. With the purchase of every $100 gift card, receive a free $20 gift card.

NEW BUFFALO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION 104 N Whittaker St . New Buffalo, Mich.

269.362.7251 . newbuffalo.org

New Buffalo Business Association Gift Certificates

Never sure of the perfect gift for that special someone? Ensure their happiness with the gift of a New Buffalo Business Association Gift Certificate! Available in virtually every denomination, these gift certificates can be used at any one of New Buffalo Business Association’s 115 participating member businesses. From retailers to restaurants, salons and galleries, delight family and friends with these unique gifts!

Tickets for Bev’s Second Season Ball

CUSTOMS IMPORTS 430 S Whittaker St . New Buffalo, Mich.

269.469.9180 . customsimports.com

Crystal Singing Bowls

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Crystal Singing Bowls are used worldwide for meditation, music, relaxation, and personal wellbeing. These bowls are made of crystal that is 99.992% pure, with each crystal bowl holding its own tone. Playing the Crystal Bowl is easy once you learn how to produce the resonant sounds.

With Crystal Singing Bowls there is a combination of the tone and the qualities of the quartz crystal to aid in your meditation or healing process. These bowls are available from $650-$1,250.

Escape the winter blues and have a Chocolate Fantasy celebration at New Buffalo Business Association’s Second Season Ball. Enjoy an open bar and hors d’oeuvres from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. EST, followed by a delicious dinner. Spend the rest of the evening dancing the night away to music by Middle of the Road band and make sure to check out the spectacular silent auction!

Bev’s Second Season Ball will take place at the Silver Creek Event Center at Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Road, New Buffalo, Mich. For information and tickets, please call us at 888-660-6222. (Tickets are also available at Customs Imports, Casey’s and Michigan Thyme. Price: $80.

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

POPA HEATING AND COOLING

2643 Highway Ave . 219.838.7700 . popahvac.com

NEXIA™ Home Intelligence

Meet your home of the future, today. Nexia™ Home Intelligence is home automation with the freedom of remote home management, giving you total control over the comfort, efficiency and security of your home from anywhere.

Home Connection Away From Home All the control of your home is at your fingertips, from anywhere, with a web-enabled computer, tablet or smartphone. With Nexia™ Home Intelligence, you can build your own home automation system. With products like the Trane ComfortLink™ control with the Schlage® Home Keypad Deadbolt and Schlage® Home Dimmer Module, you have the ability to: • Control temperature settings and manage energy use • Allow entry to your home through the Schlage® Home Keypad even when you’re not there.

• Assign up to 19 private four-digit codes for family members • Receive instant texts and email alerts when codes are used • Set recurring codes for housekeepers or frequent guests

• Add, delete or change user codes remotely • Confirm the status of your wireless lock from anywhere • Program lights to turn on/off at different times of the day • Schedule your lights to turn on when lock code is entered Call for a free in home estimate.

TAPAS CAFE

2486 W Lincoln Highway . Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.7008 . tapascafe.net

Gift Certificate

Satisfy the food lover on your list with an out-of-theordinary dining experience. Tapas Café offers traditional choices, which are worldwide favorites that have originated in Spain, Mexico and other Spanish countries.

From tapas to paella, we’ll delight your tastebuds.

Enjoy favorites like Bacon-Wrapped Scallops, Shrimp and Diablo, Meatballs Albondigas, Mango Pineapple Chicken, Salmon Saffron, Aztek Chocolate Chicken and more. Gift Certificates available in any denomination.

TASTY OLIVE COMPANY 2014 45th St (Porte de Leau Plaza) . Highland, Ind. 219.924.7881 . tastyolivecompany.com

Specialty Olive Oils and Balsamics

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DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Tasty Olive’s abundant stock of gourmet olive oils and vinegars can turn any dish into something truly impressive. Try one of their flavor-infused olive oils with fresh bread for a sophisticated yet rustic party dish, or one of their artisan vinegars for a tangy palate cleanser.

Tasty Olive’s gourmet products start at $20. Be sure to check out their biscotti, spices, soups, pastas and sea salts as well.

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RIAH SALON

8025 Wicker Ave . St. John, Ind. 219.365.6123 . riahsalon.com

GIOVANNI’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 603 Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. 219.836.6220 . giosmunster.com

Giovanni’s Gift Certificate

Always a Gift in Good Taste! You may find it no longer necessary to fly to Italy for the Cucina Italiana. Giovanni’s offers the finest Italian cuisine, expertly prepared veal, pasta, seafood and more. Voted Best Italian Restaurant in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Giovanni’s Gift Certificates are sure to please—available in any denomination.

RIAH Salon Gift Card

This holiday, give the gift of beauty and tranquility. With a RIAH Salon gift card you can provide your loved one with a calming getaway experience they won’t ever forget.

Let our highly educated stylists take care of all their hair needs and pamper them with our signature scalp, neck and shoulder massage. Gift cards are available in any denomination, and can be purchased in salon or online with mailing options!

MARUSZCZAK APPLIANCE 7809 W Lincoln Highway . Schererville, Ind. 219.865.0555 . maruszczak.com 4 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 7

KitchenAid Appliances

It’s time to treat yourself and wow your friends with a fabulous new kitchen, featuring appliances from KitchenAid. These appliances can transform the whole look and feel of your home.

Let Maruszczak’s friendly staff show you the latest styles and trends in kitchen design.

Professional Styling Tools

This season, give someone the tools to evolve their style!

With every iron, dryer or curling wand purchase through December 24th, RIAH Salon will give you a gift card for a complimentary blow, dry and style. Have one of our talented designers give you or someone else a peaceful experience that would make anyone’s holiday complete!

Styling tools start at $100.

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GIFT GUIDE 2013

Fair Oaks Smoked Gouda

Fair Oaks Sweet Swiss

Fair Oaks Heartland Collection

FREE SHIPPING on all Gift Collections from Fair Oaks Farms award-winning cheese collections. Order by Dec. 16 to guarantee arrival by Dec. 24.

FAIR OAKS FARMS

856 N 600 E . Fair Oaks, Ind. . 219.394.2025 . fofarms.com

The Legacy Collection

The Legacy Collection is an inspiring medley of some of Fair Oaks’ favorite delicious gourmet cheeses. Do you have a party or event coming up and need to wow your peers? Showing up with the Legacy Collection not only shows great taste but is the ultimate unique offering of the creamery’s smoky, sweet and even spicy selections, for $69.95.

This collection features: 8 oz. Gouda 8 oz. Smoked Gouda 8 oz. Havarti 8 oz. Havarti Pepper 8 oz. Sweet Swiss 8 oz. Emmentaler

The Heartland Collection

The Heartland Collection is a rich and flavorful assortment of some of Fair Oaks’ favorite smoky and spicy selections. Give your loved ones a unique gift that is sure to tickle their taste buds and fill their homes with this perfect blend of gourmet cheeses. With a variety of several delicious Fair Oaks Farms’ smoked and spicy cheeses, this collection is the perfect gift for those who are looking for something extra special, for $59.95.

The collection features: 8 oz. Havarti 8 oz. Havarti Pepper 8 oz. Havarti Habanero 8 oz. Smoked Sweet Swiss 8 oz. Smoked Gouda

Prairie Collection

The Prairie Collection was created with sweetness and modesty in mind.

This assortment of our sensationally sweet and mild flavors was created for those with a more delicate palate. The combination of Fair Oaks’ creamiest cheeses creates the ultimate snack. The Prairie Collection makes a great gift for those who are hard to buy for and is sure to leave a great impression at any gathering or get-together, for $34.95.

This collection features: 8 oz. Mild Cheddar 8 oz. Muenster 8 oz. Calico 8 oz. Havarti

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Our Heritage Collection was put together with flavor at the top of the list. The Fair Oaks artisans meticulously chose each of these delectable cheeses to create this sensational collection. Looking for a gift that is sure to make a great impression? Look no further.

The Heritage Collection by Fair Oaks Farms features ten delicious artisan cheeses with mouth-watering tendencies for $94.95.

This collection features: 8 oz. Emmentaler 8 oz. Sweet Swiss 8 oz. Gouda 8 oz. Smoked Gouda 8 oz. Aged Gouda 8 oz. Havarti Pepper 8 oz. Havarti 8 oz. Havarti Veggie 8 oz. Muenster 8 oz. Mild Cheddar

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Heritage Collection

GIFT GUIDE 2013

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

INDIAN SUMMER BOUTIQUE

126 S Whitaker St New Buffalo, Mich.

269.469.9994 131 S Calumet Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.983.9994

Jewelry by Jeff Lieb

Jeff Liebâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intriguing and original designs are perfect for the fashionista in your life. Necklaces, bracelets, rings and purses are among the many designs offered by this unique designer.

These jewelry items will be available for $30-$195.

DECORATING DEN

4229 Lake St . Bridgman, Mich. . 269.266.7094

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Black and White Bird Decorative Prints

Images are printed on boards then mounted on medium sand colored linen fabric. Frames are heavily distressed in white with medium brown undertones and a gray wash. $342 set of four.

Amerson Lamp

Warm taupe gray glass with brushed nickel plated details. The double hardback drum shades are a champagne inner shade with a light champagne, silken sheer outer hardback shade. Available for $429.

bite & sip

FOOD FEATURE

Chefs Who

BUTCHER THE WORLD OF CHARCUTERIE WORDS BY JANE AMMESON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

Several years ago, when I was helping Pat Koch, owner of Holiday World & Splashinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Safari, a family-owned amusement park, write her autobiography, she recalled for me growing up in Mariah Hill, a tiny Southern Indiana town where in the fall, the families would come together to harvest the meat of the fattened cows and pigs.

bite & sip

FOOD FEATURE

CARNE GUISADA (Makes 4 Servings) 2 pounds of diced meat (beef, lamb or pork) ½ cup olive oil 1 cup chopped onions 1 tablespoon crushed garlic 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper seeds 1 tablespoon of Spanish paprika 3 cups diced potatoes 1 cup roasted red peppers 1 cup frozen peas 1 cup of white wine Salt to taste

In a deep pan, heat the olive oil, cook the meat and onions until brown. Add the garlic, cook a little longer and put in the rest of the ingredients except the wine; Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

Place in a blender about a cup of the cooked veggies (no meat and few carrots if possible, it will change the color of the dish too much) add the white wine, blend well, return to the pot, bring to a boil stirring for a couple of minutes longer, serve and enjoy.

Carlos Rivero, owner and chef at Don Quijote Restaurante in Valparaiso, butterflies pork chops.

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their own meat. Butchering our own meat is part of our philosophy, of fresh, top quality, noting frozen, nothing in a can and nothing store bought. We even butcher our fish too.”

“Chefs will get in box beef of certain kinds say beef strip loins, beef tenderloins, pork butts, Canadian pork loins and then cut their portions from that,” says James Galligan, sous chef at the Sand Creek Country Club and president of the American Culinary Federation Chefs of Northwest Indiana.

“They may have different sizes and applications for each product.”

At Bistro 157 in historic downtown Valparaiso, owner/ chef Nicole Bissonnette says she hasn’t worked with a whole animal in a while, but does butcher cuts of meat to her own specifications.

“By that I mean cleaning and cutting whole beef tenderloins, legs of lambs and the like,” explains Bissonnette, noting that she currently makes charcuterie in-house from pork shoulders and pork bellies that she’s butchered.

An old farm saying talked about using everything from a pig but its squeal and these Northwest Indiana chefs are adapting that old adage, ensuring nothing goes to waste, saving money and making sure that the meat they serve is the best.

The recipe for Carne Guisada on the previous page is courtesy of Carlos Rivero.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

here was the actual killing of the animal and gathering its blood to make sausage and soup and there was a huge cauldron of boiling water for searing off hair and fur before rendering the fat, making sausages, hanging hams to age and carving the meat into favored cuts. Koch recalled the hard work, the slippery, fatty and very heavy carcass and even the burns from scalding water and cuts from knives but even more, the sense of connectiveness to both the community who came together and the food we eat.

As a girl who grew up in a city, I had never known meat beyond what we bought at the store already wrapped in cellophane and I was left with a vague sense of having lost something that was important though I had never known before it existed.

The feeling arises again when I talk to Carlos Rivero, owner of Don Quijote, a Spanish restaurant in Valparaiso. Though he’s far from Pontevedra, the small village in Spain where he was born, Rivero still practices the culinary traditions taught to him by both his grandfather and father.

“My father was a chef and my grandfather was a butcher,” Rivero tells me as he walks me through the steps of butchering the meats served at Don Quijote, his restaurant in Valparaiso. “So I got a little of both.”

There was a time when the tradition of butchering, still practiced in Spain, was the work of a small town; but butchering had almost become a lost art here in the U.S. But that is changing.

Call it snout-to-tail and the next step in the farmto-table food movement, as American chefs revive the practice—once the only way to get your meat.

And though it’s still not the norm, according to Datassential, a company which follows food trends and does custom research, 17 percent of restaurants currently have an in-house butchery program.

For Rivero, it’s not just carrying on a way of doing things as they have been for centuries, but also about knowing the meat and the suppliers.

“What happens when you buy meat already cut, you end up with cuts that you may not want and also have a lot of waste,” he says. “When you butcher you own, you know what you want and trim it that way. Like strip steaks and filets, when they cut it there’s no fat or too much fat but when you cut it, you make it like you want. When I say I serve a 9-ounce steak, I mean 9-ounce.”

It’s also about saving a lot of money, says Jack Strode, owner of the recently opened Miller Bakery Café, who orders the meat for the restaurant from the Calumet Citybased Meats by Linz. Family-owned since opening over a half century ago, the company has also developed the Linz Heritage Angus Program to enhance the quality of the raw material as well as eliminate a link in the supply chain.

“They’ve got top quality and are very particular about what their cows are fed,” says Strode, noting that butchering in-house is extra work but more than cost effective. “For the last 150 to 180 days the Angus are finished on a corn diet to add flavor.”

Floor manager at Smith & Wollensky in Chicago for five years, Strode says he paid a lot of attention to what the chefs, including the old school Swiss chef, were doing in the kitchen.

“At Smith & Wollensky, they dry age and butcher all

bite & sip TAPAS CAFÉ

2486 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville 219.769.7008. tapascafe.net Tapas Café offers a fusion of always-fresh traditional artisan Spanish-Iberic meals. Tapas include a wide variety of appetizers of Spanish cuisine. They may be cold such as Salpicon de Mariscos or warm like the Calamari a la Plancha. Appetizers from the southwest such as the nachos or quesadillas are also available.

Salads are guilt-less but flavorful.

Indiana

54 MAIN BISTRO 54 Main St, Hobart. 219.947.2817. bistro54main. com. The ever-changing menu created by Chef Scot Hinkel is sure to please gourmets, and the spectacular views are sure to entice anyone. This 1895 Victorian cottage is filled with local art offering organic wines, craft beers and specialty martinis with a gorgeous deck for outdoor waterfront dining. Enjoy inventive dishes made with fresh ingredients either in the charming dining room or outdoors, as weather allows.

ASPARAGUS 7876 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.794.0000. asparagusrestaurant.com. Asparagus distinguishes itself by offering a rare opportunity to experience fine dining in a serenely elegant, Zen-like environment while savoring dishes freshly fashioned from the cuisines of Thailand, Vietnam and the Americas, all informed with classic French culinary artistry. The restaurant offers everything from Seafood Pad Thai to Honey Kumquat Quail and Wasabi Herb-Crusted Lamb Rack as well as the signature lobster mango spring roll and a variety of satays.

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BLACK EYED P SMOKEHOUSE CANTEEN 110 West 9th Street, Michigan City. 219.809.2045.

The Black Eyed P Smokehouse Canteen of Michigan City is the home of the gourmet woodfire turkey.

The owners have created a special cooking technique with a custom-made smoker and combined good old-fashioned cooking with innovative technology to create a delicious and juicy turkey. The signature woodfire cooking process is also used for turkey breasts, Cornish hens, chicken wings, and ribs. Turkey and chicken can be ordered with one of three distinct flavors—herb and garlic, Caribbean jerk, or Cajun.

BLACKSTONE WOODFIRE GRILL 7311 Mallard Lane, Schererville. 219.769.0000. blackstonewoodfiregrill.com. Tucked away on old Route 30 in Schererville’s Foxwood Estates, BlackStone Woodfire Grill is Northwest Indiana’s destination for

mouthwatering steaks, tender ribs and bone-in chops, tasty chicken, and perfectly-grilled seafood. The aroma of the oak, hickory and apple wood-fired grill will awaken diners’ taste buds; the made-from-scratch appetizers, salads and soups will tease the palate. The selection of wines and decadent desserts will tempt all gourmet’s senses.

BOARDWALK BAR AND GRILL 3000 E Shore Dr, Culver. 574.842.5386. culvermarina. com/bwbg.html. The BoardWalk Bar & Grill offers live entertainment and private parties along with a thoughtful and popular menu. Located at the Culver Marina, the restaurant boasts plenty of family seating at the gazebo, offering a great view of the harbor.

BURGERHAUS 3304 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso. 219.286.3296. burgerhausrestaurants.com. Burgerhaus serves creatively-delicious burgers based on international cuisine. The traditional burger goes abroad with a custom blend of the finest meat cuts infused with special seasonings from around the world. Burgerhaus is locally owned and operated by the Costas Family, and is a concept created by Jon and Evan Costas.

BUTTERFINGERS 2552 45th Street, Highland. 219.924.6464. 921 Ridge Rd #D, Munster. 219.836.4202. Every day, Butterfingers prepares a selection of ready-to-heatand-eat entrées, along with freshly baked breads and salads, all without preservatives. The chicken almond salad has long been a crowd favorite, but the rest of the lunch menu is equally gratifying.

What Butterfingers is best known for, however, is their famous desserts. The restaurant’s two pastry chefs-whose training hails from the Culinary Institute of America in New York, and Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island-create an array of gourmet desserts, which includes beautifully decorated and delicious cakes (the double chocolate mousse cake is a must), and an assortment of cookies and brownies, all of which have been satisfying dessert lovers for more

than twenty-five years. And to every party planner’s delight, Butterfingers does offer catering.

LA CABAÑA 807 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.510.5587. lacabanamexicanrestaurantandcantina.com. La Cabaña serves authentic Mexican cuisine with an upscale twist. Their menu offers tapas in addition to the traditional appetizers and dinner entrees, and their drink offerings round out a full-bodied menu.

CAFÉ BORGIA 10018 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.922.8889. cafeborgia.com. Café Borgia’s unique gourmet Italian menu features innovative regional cuisine. Choose from salads featuring calamari or hearty tomatoes and mozzarella, followed by a robust pasta, steak or fish.

Their desserts and drinks menu has items to please any gourmet.

CARRIAGE COURT PIZZA 211 S East St, Crown Point. 219.663.6551. carriagecourtpizza.com. Adjacent to Crown Brewery, Carriage Court Pizza serves quality food along with the ice cold refreshing beer brewed on site. Their menu includes pub favorites, complete dinners and more, along with their claim to fame, pizza.

CAPPO’S CASUAL DINING 6656 US 6, Portage. 219.762.5563. capposcasualdining.com. Cappo’s Casual Dining offers a superb selection of Italian and ethnic food in a casual, family friendly environment. Cappo’s features beer and wine along with the meal, and also offers occasional specials to keep regulars coming back for more.

CIAO BELLA 1514 US 41, Schererville. 219.322.6800. ciaobellaonline.com. The cuisines of three different regions of Italy are featured at the newly opened Ciao Bella, a ristorante, pizzeria and wine bar.

Patrons can sample a 12-inch gourmet pizza with a

photo by TONY V. MARTIN

The information presented in Bite & Sip is accurate as of press time, but readers are encouraged to call ahead to verify listing information.

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DICKS RESTAURANT AND BAR 10808 Wicker Ave, St. John.

219.365.5041. dicksrestaurant.net.

Dick’s Restaurant and Bar offers classic American cuisine in a relaxed, sports bar atmosphere. The bar and lounge is a perfect place to watch the game, while the spacious banquet center accommodates large events.

DON QUIJOTE 119 E Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.462.7976. donquijoterestaurantandimports.com.

Proprietor Carlos Rivero’s authentic Spanish cuisine, lively and friendly atmosphere, and conviviality with his return customers make this downtown Valparaiso restaurant a destination for Chicagoans and Michigan residents alike. The exciting menu features dozens of small courses, including a wellknown classic paella with saffron rice and fresh-grilled seafood chunks. Grilled steaks and lamb and veal chops are abundant and cooked according to family recipes handed down for generations. The house specialty is a flan-textured vanilla cake.

Lunch entrées average $15, dinner $25.

DUNELAND BEACH INN 3311 Pottawattamie Tr, Stop 33, Michigan City. 800.423.7729. dunelandbeachinn. com. Duneland Beach Inn is nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood just outside of New Buffalo, Michigan. The newly remodeled circa-1924 Inn houses eight guest rooms as well as the superb restaurant, catering to loyal locals and Chicagoans. Begin your Duneland Beach evening by unwinding in the cozy bar with one of their signature ice-layered martinis, or select from an extensive wine

list like none other in the region (prices range from $26-$336), or simply relax with a cold craft beer after a day at the beach. For dinner, choose the tranquil outdoor patio or the comfortable dining room. The dinner menu includes special chef’s features such as prime steaks, fresh fish and seafood, and seasonal cuisine.

Culinary staff uses the freshest ingredients available for dishes like seared ahi tuna with soba noodle salad, veal chop Wellington, Maryland-style jumbo lump crab cakes, wasabi-coconut-encrusted Florida grouper, seafood risotto with black truffle oil, grass-fed filet of tenderloin, or a small plate designed for those with a lighter appetite. Looking for a casual dinner? Choose the best fresh burger in the area, tender smoky baby-back ribs, or the best fried chicken. For the total experience conclude the evening by reserving one of the restful, reinvigorating Jacuzzi suites with private bath and peeka-boo shower in the inn.

FAHRENHEIT TWO TWELVE 10805 Broadway Ave, Crown Point.

219.663.8160. fht212.com. This restaurant and bar in Crown Point offers a casual dining room, a stocked bar and outdoor patio ready for any occasion and season. Their menu boasts dishes such as Angus steaks, chops, ribs and fresh seafood, with a selection of cheesecakes and other tempting morsels.

GAUCHO’S 5 9 7 U S H w y 3 0 , Va l p a r a i s o .

219.759.1100. gauchosvalpo.com. At Gaucho’s, diners enjoy delicious and unique cuisine invented by the Gaucho cowboys of southern Brazil, who provided meats for the people of Brazil with their famous “Churrasco” barbecue. At Gaucho’s, this centuries-old traditional feast is created tableside as servers bring such offerings as filet mignon wrapped in bacon, chicken parmesan, pork sausage, garlic-roasted turkey breast, merlot-marinated leg of lamb, and a variety of other meats, during Gaucho’s traditional Brazilian-style dinner experience for $39.95. Seafood selections on Wednesday and Friday—just $29.95— include crab legs, shrimp, tilapia, perch, tuna, mahi mahi, salmon and clam strips, or add the meat selections for $45.95.

All dinners include a 35-item salad bar, Brazilian mashed potatoes, and fried bananas. The lunch menu offers a large selection of sandwiches and salads. Start or finish dinner in the Twisted Martini Lounge upstairs for cocktails, cigars and live entertainment in a modern, intimate setting.

3158 S. St. Rd. 2 Valparaiso, IN 866-761-3753

Jacuzzi suites with fireplace, our own chefs, Gazebo in the gardens.

Doing it right for our special guests since 1995.

See us, check availability, reserve www.innataberdeen.com inn@innataberdeen.com

Check availability & reserve online

Relish the flavors of Spain

L

et your taste buds enjoy an exotic trip to the Iberian Peninsula without ever leaving Northwest Indiana. Tapas Cafe, established in spring 2012 by Ulises and Rosalba Gomez, offers a diverse selection of hot and cold tapas, creative entrees and paella, Spain’s traditional rice dish.

As Ulises Gomez, who mans the kitchen in the role of chef explains it, his focus is to serve modern Spanish fare using traditional ingredients and techniques.

“We use traditional ingredients but reinvent them to create new tapas, and new flavors,” says Gomez. “And I want to bring diners a gourmet touch at an affordable price.”

Tapas, which are small plates, are the perfect choice for sharing a meal with friends. At Tapas Cafe, the menu boasts a nice variety and also stars an assortment of seafood and meat entrees along with chicken, seafood and vegetable paellas.

Among the cold tapas offerings are Bacon-Wrapped Scallops ($13); Shrimp and Diablo, ($9), which is grilled shrimp topped with spicy garlic Chipotle pepper sauce; Meatballs Albondigas ($7), which are meatballs served over rice and served with a Spanish tomato sauce; and Patatas Bravas ($6), a spicy potato dish with a TAPAS CAFE creamy sauce.

2486 W Lincoln Hwy If you’re looking for an out-of-theMerrillville, Ind. ordinary dining experience, take a 219.769.7008 culinary journey to Tapas Cafe. tapascafe.net

Discover the true meaning of Tapas…

Experience a fusion of always fresh traditional artisan European cuisine. You don’t have to go downtown to enjoy the worldwide favorites that have originated in Spain, Mexico and other Spanish countries. For Tapas to Paella, our cuisine satisfies the food lover!

Gourmet Express Lunch availab available.

2486 Lincoln Hwy | Merrillville, IN 219.769.7008 | www www.tapascafe.net Hours: Mon – Sat 11am -10pm; Sun noon – 8pm

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

Time for Romance?

How about a special occasion— wedding, anniversary, birthday, shower?

TAPAS CAFE

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creative array of toppings like the Pizza Quattro Stagioni—tomatoes, artichokes, prosciutto and black olives—or the sauceless Pizza Al Fichi topped with goat cheese, figs and onions and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. For those who like more traditional pies, there are thin-crust options with toppings such as sausage, fresh garlic, salami and jalapeños. Or try such entries as Ciao Bella’s signature dishes, Rigatoni Boscaiola—spicy Italian sausage and rigatoni noodles topped with a tomato cream sauce—and the Chicken Pollo Ala Romana, a chicken breast sautéed in a white wine sauce with roasted tri-color peppers and then sauced in a tomato cream. There’s also a great selection of seafood, pork and beef. Desserts change frequently, but the tiramisu is always on the menu. The extensive wine list focuses on European and Californian wines. Delivery and takeout available.

bite & sip GINO’S STEAK HOUSE 1259 W Joliet St, Dyer. 219.865.3854.

600 E 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.769.4466. ginossteakhouse.com. The chefs at Gino’s, who have more than thirty years of combined experience, use only the freshest ingredients in their homestyle cuisine.

Starters include traditional minestrone soup from a family recipe, salads with fresh, locally grown produce, and crusty bread with crocks of butter. The nine-ounce prime steak tops the menu and is itself topped with Roquefort cheese in its most popular rendition. All main dishes are served with the restaurant’s signature marinated peppers, and entrées include fish and lobster delivered daily. The dessert menu features créme brûlée and various cheesecakes, but the housemade tiramisu is the highlight—a rich blend of coffee, chocolate and cream cheese flavors.

A premium selection of wine, beer and cocktails is available at the full-service bar, and there is a special children’s menu so the entire family can enjoy the dining experience.

GIOVANNI’S 603 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.6220. giosmunster.com. This classic upscale Italian bistro is a local favorite, with charm, gracious service and an extensive menu. Innovative selections include a variety of appetizers, and specials are paired with recommended wine by the glass. A crab cake salad with fresh mozzarella and Bibb lettuce is a staple for lunch, and all entrées are accompanied by hot and crusty garlic Parmesan cheese rolls.

You can indulge in a traditional multi-course Italian dinner or order by the item. For lighter fare, soups, salads and pizzas are served with cheerful dispatch. Sumptuous dinners include a renowned Veal Scallopine Piccata, served in a white wine sauce, and scampi sautéed in garlic, lemon, thyme and butter.

The wine list is extensive but educational, and the desserts range from classic tiramisu to real Italian gelato. Lunch entrées average about $12, while dinners cost $18 to $25.

JELLY PANCAKE HOUSE 399 E 81st Avenue, Merrillville.

219.736.0100. The newest breakfast hotspot in Northwest Indiana starts early at 6am, with a menu that features eggs that can be accompanied by steaks or pork chops, large omelettes, freshly squeezed orange juice, crêpes, skillets, French toast, waffles and pancakes that take the old favorites to a whole new level. Homemade soups, burgers, salads, wraps, and varied entrees are among the choices for lunch.

KELSEY’S STEAK HOUSE 2300 US Highway 30, Valparaiso.

219.465.4022. 5630 US Hwy 6, Portage.

219.762.2242. kelseyssteakhouse.com.

This stalwart Indiana restaurant has built and maintained a first-rate reputation for a great meal at a fair price over many years.

But in recent years, Kelsey’s has expanded the menu in imaginative ways to include a range of choices such as rib bites, escargot and oysters Rockefeller. Celebrations have to include a signature “Howie the Cow” cake savored along with a rich, aromatic cup of decaf or glass of California cabernet. Kelsey’s does not take reservations, but normally there is not a long wait.

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LUCREZIA 428 Calumet Rd, Chesterton. 219.926.5829.

302 S Main St, Crown Point. 219.661.5829. lucreziacafe.com. Lucrezia has been a Northern Italian favorite since owners Michael and Nada Karas first opened it in the mid-nineties, in a historic downtown Chesterton building. Several years later, the couple renovated the William Barringer Brown Mansion just off the downtown square in Crown Point, continuing their fine dining tradition. (In fact, Lucrezia won a 2006 and 2008 ROSE Award for “Putting Porter County on the Map.”) Signature

dishes include chicken Vesuvio—slow cooked chicken served in a rosemary garlic sauce with roasted potatoes and fresh vegetables— and roasted lamb shank braised in its own juices accompanied by roasted potatoes and braised red cabbage. Specials include veal medallions with mustard and mushrooms topped with a roasted brandy cream sauce.

Not to be missed is the zuccotto, a sinful domed-shaped chocolate sponge cake filled with white chocolate mousse and pistachios and sauced with both chocolate and raspberry. Lunch entrées average $20, dinner $30.

MARTINI’S 1 0 0 4 C a l u m e t A v e , Va l p a r a i s o .

219.464.0801. martinisinvalpo.com.

Martinis Culinary Cocktail Lounge offers a full service bar with an extensive martini list of more than 120 selections, top shelf spirits and craft beers there is something for every palette. Weekly performances showcase local artists. From the tempting appetizers to the homemade soups, sauces, pastas, seafood and certified Angus meats, Martinis seeks to be the premier dining and entertainment experience.

MILLER BAKERY CAFE 555 S Lake Street, Gary. 219.427.1446. millerbakerycafe.com. Veteran restaurant manager Jack Strode has brought the historic Miller Bakery Café back to life featuring creative small plates, fresh seafood and the finest grilled meats. Savor original recipes like Scallops with Soft Polenta, Pepperonata and Romesco Sauce, Red Chili Glazed Salmon with Israeli Couscous, Spring Peas, and Golden Pea Shoots, or a classic NY Strip grilled to perfection with custard potatoes and fresh veg du jour. For more casual fare, our MB Burger is made with fresh ground beef, bacon jam and smothered with crispy Fontina onions, great with a Bell’s Beer, Sparkling Bourbon Lemonade, or a glass of one of our boutique wines. For dessert, try our Signature Bread Pudding Made with Buttery Croissants, Golden Raisins and Toasted Pecans Served Warm with Fresh Blueberries, Whipped Cream and Whiskey Caramel Sauce. Enjoy a fresh approach to New American Cuisine with beautiful food and creative cocktails in a fun atmosphere of artistic design, casual elegance and warm, attentive service in the newly renovated historic Miller Bakery.

MILLER BEACH MARKET PLACE 925 N Shelby Street, Gary. 219.939.9007. millerbeachmarketplace.com. Open seven days a week, the Miller Beach Market Place offers sustainable and environmentally friendly products. From gelato to fresh produce to gluten-free options, the market offers healthy and fresh options with the convenience of being right off the beach.

NIKO’S STEAK & SEAFOOD 216 S Broad St, Griffith. 219.934.0400.

Niko’s Steak and Seafood serves the finest steaks, ribs and chops, seafood, sandwiches and more, in a comfortable atmosphere where customers can enjoy the offerings of the fully stocked bar. Family owned and operated, Niko’s is a Region destination.

THE PATIO RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE 7706 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.769.7990.

The Patio invites guests to an exceptional dining experience in the well appointed, luxurious restaurant. Savor a delectable lunch or dinner from the extensive menu selection. For a relaxing evening with family and friends, live music is performed every Friday night in the elegant lounge.

PIKK’S TAVERN 62 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.476.7455. pikkstavern.com. The tavern identification in this case is used British-style to denote a

community-neighborhood-family place with amply portioned, upscale comfort food. The fine-dining details like sensational seafood and steaks, fifteen housemade dipping sauces and martinis shaken table-side have drawn attention as well. Wine and microbrew lists round out the menu.

RESTAURANT AT THE LOST MARSH 1001 129th St, Hammond. 219.228.2526.

Convenient dining on the lush greens at Lost Marsh, the Restaurant at the Lost Marsh offers café and bistro cuisine in a country club atmosphere. The sandwiches, salads and soups are perfect for lunch, while their larger entrees are great for the dinner crowd.

STONEY GARDENS 110 W 9th Street, Michigan City.

219.879.8997. stonygardens.com. Dedicated to creating moist, flavorful meats, the founders of Stony Gardens decided to take advantage of their engineering background and their passion for great flavor. The Stony Garden co-owners created a special smoker that would allow for the poultry to cook thoroughly, yet remain flavorful and juicy throughout. Stony Gardens also offers catering services with a variety of southernfusion choices such as greens, Caribbean salad, pasta salad, rice and beans, cornbread, peach cobbler and more.

STRONGBOW INN 2405 E US 30, Valparaiso. 800.462.5121. strongbowinn.com. The menu at this classic institution still includes a wide variety of turkey selections, but with daily specials that include barbecued pork ribs, seafood choices, prime rib and other comfort foods, one would never guess that the bakery and restaurant started as a sandwich stand during the Depression. Many families have had Thanksgiving catered by Strongbow— the meticulously prepared traditional meal that can be ordered as take-out is virtually indistinguishable from that produced by a family team working in the kitchen for ten hours. Also, the bakery has exploded with a range of treats created daily, including cinnamon rolls, cakes, pies, brownies, fruit tarts, truffles, crème brûlée and strawberry napoleons. Lunch entrées average $8, and dinner is $18.

T-BONES PIER 11 1111 Lakeside, LaPorte. 219.362.5077. pleastshore.com. This Italian steakhouse is carefully tucked into a cove of scenic Pine Lake. The spacious dining room is reminiscent of a traditional supper club, but a terrace overlooks the harbor and instead of being at a roadhouse, you are on the beach. As expected, the seafood hits a high standard; a range of salads, pizzas and pasta selections round out the lighter supper fare.

This is the place to indulge in a T-bone, New York strip, filet mignon or flat iron steak grilled over a wood fire.

TEIBEL’S 1775 US Highway 41, Scherer ville.

219.865.2000. teibels.com. For 80 years and four generations, Teibel’s has been Northwest Indiana’s “Ideal Family Restaurant.” The tradition continues with the restaurant’s beautiful new fine dining room and many banquet options, along with beloved house specialties including fried chicken and yellow lake perch.

TEQUILA RESTAURANTE 110 S Main St, Crown Point. 219.661.8226. tequilarestaurante.com. Striving to exceed any and all expectations of a typical Mexican restaurant, Tequila Restaurante offers a revolving menu that pairs fresh, seasonal offerings with the staff’s longtime traditional family recipes prepared in a scratch producing, labor-intense kitchen.

Hearty plates are delivered to white linen, flower and candle adorned tables by

devoted professionals. There’s something for everyone, starting with tableside guacamole, hand-cut carne asada, a build-your-ownplate of tacos, tostadas, sopes, enchiladas, tamales and flautas, as well as fresh ahi, mahi mahi, and sea bass tacos, to 21-day aged filets, one-pound pork chops and bone-in rib eyes. The seasonal cocktail selection boasts scratch-made 21-ounce margaritas and house drinks as well as a boutique of perfectly paired wines. Established in 2009, Tequila Restaurante takes great pride in its current “on the square” location, offering a one-of-a-kind “Mexperience” in its eclectic social dining room (children’s menu available), tequila cantina (21 and over) or outdoor seating (weather permitting).

Reservations strongly suggested.

THIRD COAST SPICE CAFÉ 761 Indiana Boundary Rd #6, Chesterton.

219.926.5858. thirdcoastspice.com. At Third Coast Spice Café, the menu draws inspiration from every corner of the globe.

The café offer considerate portions of the foods patrons love, made from scratch with wholesome ingredients. They also pride themselves on accommodating diverse food preferences and diet restrictions.

T.J. MALONEY’S AUTHENTIC IRISH PUB 800 East 81st Avenue, Merrillville.

219.755.0569. starplaza.com/dining/ diningtj-maloneys. T.J. Maloney’s is one of the area’s top social destinations for meeting with friends, family and business clients. In addition to the genuine atmosphere, the pub features signature, authentic Irish menu items, blended and balanced with American favorites. Irish classics include Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie and T.J.’s Famous Fish and Chips, while burgers, hearty sandwiches and homemade soups round out the savory experience.

VENICE ITALIAN STEAK HOUSE 275 Joliet St, Dyer. 219.322.8565. veniceitaliansteakhouse.com. A quality restaurant with pickup and delivery services available, Venice Steakhouse offers a wide array of cuisines, from Italian-inspired meals to steakhouse classics. The menu includes dinner house specialties such as chicken saltimbocca, veal medallions, and roasted whitefish. In addition to a variety of dishes, the eatery provides a stylish atmosphere for socializing and dining. Guests can mingle in one of the two outdoor dining areas—a glass-encompassed patio and an open-air patio—as well as enjoy a marble bar indoors.

THE VIEW AT CENTENNIAL PARK 1 0 0 5 S C e n t e n n i a l D r, M u n s t e r.

2 1 9 . 8 3 6 . 6 9 8 3 . m u n s t e r. o r g / e g o v / docs/1287093330875.htm. The View is located inside the Centennial Park Clubhouse in Munster. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly dining experience.

The View is a great place to enjoy lunch or early dinner with selections including bunker burgers, assorted hot and cold sandwiches, specialty salads, gourmet soups, delicious daily specials and desserts.

WILLIAM B’S STEAKHOUSE at BLUE CHIP CASINO 777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City.

888.879.7711 ext 2118. bluechipcasino.com. Named after Boyd Gaming Corporation’s chairman and CEO William S. Boyd, William B’s is a world-class steakhouse in the tradition of the Stardust Hotel in Las Vegas. Executive Chef Rudy Paniuagua advises that you should not over-grill a great steak: “The flavor of the meat and the marbling should speak for themselves.”

Rib eyes, T-bones, filet and porterhouse are the centerpiece of the menu—and all the little extras are available, including creamy horseradish, sautéed onions and mushrooms, and au poivre sauce with shallots, butter,

Michigan

BISTRO ON THE BOULEVARD 521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph.

269.983.6600. theboulevardinn.com/ bistro. This American Bistro on Lake Michigan has a well-deserved and unrivaled reputation in Southwest Michigan. The view through the French doors overlooking the bluff is spectacular no matter what season, though dining outside on the porch has its own special charm, particularly at sunset or on a starry summer night.

The interior of the dining room and cozy adjacent bar is impeccable.

The menu changes frequently to accommodate seasonal, fresh and available fruits and vegetables, much of which are grown locally, but the basic entrée list—created by executive chef Ryan Thornburg, who worked as the restaurant’s sous chef for three years when it first opened—is extensive. Thornburg’s menu items include horseradish crusted salmon accompanied by sautéed spinach in a Michigan cherry vinaigrette, steak frites—a tallgrass 8-ounce top sirloin with pomme frites and herb butter—and crispy duck confit with sweet potato perogies, micro greens, and walnut vinaigrette. Prices are reasonable, starting at $14 for the All American Burger with bacon, smoked gouda, lettuce, and tomato, to steaks for around $30. Reservations are always helpful, especially on the weekends.

THE BUCK 412 State St, St. Joseph.

269.281.0320. eatatthebuck.com.

Originally known as the Silver Dollar Cafe, the restaurant was referred to by regulars as “The Buck” until it closed in 2009. The newly reinstated Buck Burgers and Brew promises to offer a new, affordable burgers-and-beer

THE GRILLE AT HARBOR SHORES 400 Klock Rd, Benton Harbor.

269.932.4653. harborshoreslife. com/grill. The 18-hole Jack Nicklausdesigned golf course is the picturesque backdrop for the Grille at Harbor Shores. The new clubhouse restaurant will be open seven days a week during golf season (April-October) and will schedule selected open days of the week in the off-season.

Executive Chef Mark Smith’s menu plans for breakfast, lunch and dinner will be focused on locally grown and sustainable food including a range of daily and weekly specials. While the lunch menu will have a variety of sandwiches, burgers and entrée salads, dinner will feature steaks, poultry, dish and signature dishes, also a complete wine list.

LARK & SONS BARBECUE AND HAND CAR WASH 440 W Main St, Benton Harbor.

269.926.9833. Lark’s is known for their fine menu of delicious barbecued seafood, polish dogs, barbecued and jerk chicken, and a variety of side orders. The old-style southern recipes and aromas will take you back to another place and time. Visitors can see for themselves why Willie Lark has the reputation of having the best barbecue in the Twin cities area.

PLAYERS BAR & GRILLE 221 Main St, St. Joseph.

269.982.4000. playersstjoe.com. A great lunch and dinner destination, Players Bar & Grille offers innovative dishes alongside perennial favorites.

Their menu includes appetizers like homemade spinach dip, salad selections such as a spinach salad with blackened salmon, and more.

The restaurant’s dinner specialties include fried perch or chicken piccata.

The restaurant also hosts events such as a weekly euchre tournament, trivia nights and live music.

RYEBELLE’S 518 Broad St, St. Joseph.

269.281.0318. R yebelle’s is a romantic and elegant destination for fine American cuisine. The restaurant features a comfortable dining room, exceptional service and fine American cuisine. The menu includes favorites such as juicy burgers and cheesy pizza, fresh seafood and hearty steaks.

The restaurant offers rooftop dining overlooking scenic Lake Michigan.

SIX.ONE.SIX at JW MARRIOTT HOTEL 35 Louis Campau Promenade NW, Grand Rapids. 616.242.1500. ilovethejw.com/dining.html. Bringing the best through the door on the front end is the hallmark of this luxury hotel, located in this Michigan town on a growth trajectory. The menu is simple, and executive chef Justin Dalenberg satisfies the most discerning palate. Size, freshness and outstanding taste characterize the seafood. The mussels, oysters, salmon, tuna and scallops are cooked flawlessly and served in a variety of ways, including raw, grilled and poached in herb and broth combinations that coax out and mix

perfect flavors. Locally produced poultry, particularly the duck breast, gets an excellent treatment with specially designed, hand-cut vegetable sides. Steaks, chops and filets are held to a high standard, and the wine pairings exceed expectations. Entrées average $25-$35. Reservations are a very good idea; while the restaurant, Mixology bar and the atrium lounge fill the vast expanse of the first floor, at certain times on the weekends every seat is taken, and there may be a short wait.

TABOR HILL WINERY & RESTAURANT 185 Mt. Tabor Rd, Buchanan.

800.283.3363. taborhill.com. Tabor Hill Winery’s restaurant is all at once elegant, urbane and semicasual. Its windows afford ample, rolling vineyard views; the menu is sophisticated. Chef John Paul Verhage, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, gives a modified California-cuisine touch to signature dishes like raspberry chicken and the salmon wrapped in grape leaves. The extensive appetizer menu includes items like mini Morel Mushroom Pizzas and Kobe Beef Carpaccio.

Though the restaurant is easy to find—just a half hour north of South Bend and 20 minutes east of New Buffalo—it’s not always easy to get in. Reservations are suggested—but those who wander in unannounced can sip at the complimentary wine bar or purchase a glass and enjoy it on the stone terrace overlooking the vines. Tabor Hill produces a wonderful variety of award-winning wines, but for those who desire a harder libation, a full bar awaits.

Illinois

GLENWOOD OAKS RIB & CHOP HOUSE 106 N Main St, Glenwood.

708.758.4400. glenwoodoaks.com.

The Jarosky family has been serving a solid menu of steaks, chops, fresh seafood and vegetables for a generation, with specials that reflect newly popular items or vegetables in season. But the clientele returns again and again for the staples, which include Angus steaks and chops, sautéed fresh lake perch, oysters Rockefeller done à la Isabelle, and salads of crunchy iceberg lettuce with house dressing. Armadillo eggs— fresh jalapeño peppers stuffed with cheddar, fried and served with salsa and sour cream—are the ultimate in comfort food. Dinner entrées average $20; lunch entrées run in the $12 range.

SIAM MARINA THAI CUISINE 16846 S Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park. Chef-proprietor Tammy Pham has evolved into a legend for her mastery of a full menu with dozens of vegetarian options as well as traditionally spiced and marinated poultry dishes. The spring rolls and peanut sauce are prepared in-house daily, along with special soups.

The authentic pad Thai has a loyal following, and fresh coconut works in many of the dishes, including dessert.

A multi-course lunch averages $12, dinner $15.

For more restaurant listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com

Sharing the Holiday with You! We look forward to

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Accomodations up to 100. Or let us cater the perfect holiday gathering.

Lunch parties of 10 or more receive a 10% discount.

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1514 U.S. 41, Schererville, IN 219.322.6800 M-Th 11am-10pm | F-Sat 11am-11pm | Sun 11am-10pm www.ciaobellaonline.com • visit www.opentable.com to make your reservations

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

BREAD+BAR 645 Riverview Drive, Benton Harbor.

269.757.7219. breadbarbh.com. bread+bar uniquely rests in the rising art community of Benton Harbor, Michigan. The restaurant’s large windows open you to a spectacular water view of the St. Joseph River. bread+bar’s location boasts beautiful sunsets and alfresco dining. A seasonal patio is perfect for a hand-crafted cocktail. The restaurant décor utilizes natural materials, giving a feeling of warmth, comfort and ambiance, perfect for good conversations, celebrations, meetings, and small dinner parties.

The restaurant also includes a white marble chilled display bar, filled to the brim with delicious ready-made sandwiches and salads for a quick “grab and go” snack. Starting from scratch and crafting by hand, bread + bar prepares healthy, fresh and flavorful meals. Dishes are paired with Bit of Swiss artisan breads that are made fresh daily for lunch and dinner. Craft cocktails are made fresh and micro beers are ice cold, poured through frosted taps.

experience at a slightly more upscale version of the original Silver Dollar Cafe. The brewpub is focused on serving Michigan draft beers and ingredients sourced from local growers.

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cracked peppercorns and cognac— but you will also find fresh seafood, occasional exotic selections like ostrich, and exquisite pasta dishes, prepared in-house. There is a complete cocktail menu (the traditional martinis are excellent), as well as a five-star wine list and complete appetizer and dessert selections. The average cost of dinner is $25, and reservations are highly recommended.

house&

GROUNDS

HISTORIC HOME

for the holidays

In the late 1800s, Langley Avenue in St. Joseph, Michigan was a country road winding its way through the orchards growing on a ridge high above the St. Joseph River. It was the perfect spot for Abraham Lincoln Hart, a local farmer, to build his home. The bluff, leading down to the river, was terraced to grow grapes and the view from the porches out back commanded a sweeping view of the broad, slow moving river and the gently rolling hills behind it.

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More than a third of a century later, the house was purchased by William Fickenger and his wife to use as a summer home. The Fickengers renovated the house, adding a conservatory, library, summer room and a four car detached garage which, historical anecdotes indicate, were filled with Packards. They also added that necessary option for comfortable living—servants’ quarters since the couple employed a maid, a cook and a full time gardener. If the house seemed somewhat large for a country home, Mrs. Fickenger had grown up in a house much grander. She was the daughter of Dr. John McGill whose family had founded McGill University in Canada in the early 19th century. Dr. McGill built a turreted and gabled brick home on Chicago’s then swank south side that took up an entire city block.

The Fickengers lived well even in what was considered the country. Mrs. Fickenger drove WORDS BY JANE AMMESON a pink convertible built on a Duisenberg PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN chassis with a straight 12 engine, one of only six built. Hitler supposedly owned one too. The first circuit breakers that General Electric ever installed in a home were added to their home. Because the looked like oversized light switches and were in the hallways, guests, wanting to be helpful, turned them off, plunging the entire floor into darkness.

Joe Pearson of St. Joseph was hired to do the renovation at a cost of about $50,000—a lot of money even now but a fortune in 1935 during the Depression. The picture window looking out on the river was the largest piece of Pittsburg glass ever installed at that time. A third floor was also added as was a greenhouse on the extensive grounds.

“We start celebrating the day before Christmas when the grandkids come over and stuff the turkey and put up the crèches.”

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The Johnsons believe that the holidays are all about family and particularly their grandchildren and so despite the beauty and rarity of many of the decorations they inherited, children are allowed to touch and enjoy. [Opposite page] Even when the home, originally built as a farm house to take advantage of the rich soil of the St. Joseph River, this late 1800 home now belonging to Mike and Marlene Johnson of St. Joseph, Michigan, has always been grand.

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GROUNDS

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Pearson expanded the kitchen, adding six-burner gas stovetop, four ovens, broiler, warming ovens and a walk-in refrigerator. The dining room table sat 16.

Mrs. Fickenger’s chair was near a floor buzzer allowing her to tap it with her foot when it was time for the next course. If all this sounds rather grand consider this: the Fickengers entertained frequently and their guest list included the U.S. Secretary of State.

The family seems to have lived large.

Mrs. Fickenger can be seen in an old black and white photo standing by the house next to one of her Great Danes smoking a cigarette. She grew orchids in the conservatory and kept a monkey there too. A parrot sometimes roosted in the conservatory and sometimes perched by the front door. The kitchen at times was permeated with the smell of horsemeat as Mr. Fickenger boiled it, along with cloves of garlic, to feed to the Great Danes, earning one of the dogs the not very nice name of Garlic Breath.

Some of these reminders of the past still remain in the home which was purchased by Dr. Ray and his family in the 1950s and then sold again to Mike and Marlene Johnson in 1989. The Johnsons hired Carl Schuett, an interior designer, to help them add their own touches to the house. Schuett designed and oversaw the complete project and Evan LeDuc did the architectural work and coordinated the scheduling of contractors. In an interesting connection to the past, Schuett, who is from St. Joseph but has worked in interior design in both New York and Chicago, had babysat the youngest Fickenger son when he was young.

The Johnsons wanted to keep the integrity of the house but also wanted the conveniences found in new homes.

They replaced the old boiler and radiators and added three zones of heating and cooling systems, removed the old windows, including the leaded glass windows in the library, had them thermo-planed and then put back in. They added two fireplaces, one in what had been the conservatory but now became an all season room with fantastic views of the river. They retained the extensive trees and shrubbery planted by the Ray family which includes rhododendrons bushes that are more than 50 years old.

The plaster walls were torn out and replaced. In the process, the Johnsons discovered the old piping used for gas lamps. Underneath the floor in the dining room, the wiring for Mrs. Fickenger’s buzzer remains but the walls of butler’s pantry on the first floor were torn out to expand the size of the kitchen. The Johnsons also found that the summer room had an 18 inch concrete and steel floor and below that was a bomb shelter with a tunnel leading out to the terraced riverfront. That struck a chord with Mike Johnson, who owns Dee Blast in Stevensville, as when he was young he helped his dad build bomb shelters for many St. Joseph residences. The couple also had the extensive crown molding ordered to replicate the original molding and added new plumbing and fixtures.

“It’s like a new house within an old house,” says Johnson.

And like in the Fickengers’ time, it’s still a marvelous place for entertaining. But instead of high level government officials, the Johnsons who have three grown daughters and four grandchildren as well as large families on both sides also invite those who don’t have another place to go on the holiday.

Micah Johnson, the Johnsons’ second oldest daughter, is in charge of the holiday

display that every year goes in front of the large window overlooking the wide expanse of front lawn—which is filled with lights and red bows on trees.

“The grandkids are mesmerized by all the lights on the display,” says Marlene Johnson, noting that they always seem to discover something new to point out in wonder. “We start celebrating the day before Christmas when the grandkids come over and stuff the turkey and put up the crèches.”

The large pine tree in entranceway is decorated with ornaments the family inherited from Ruth Grootendorst, a long time family friend.

“For 50 years she order shoe ornaments from the Metropolitan Museum of Art catalogue,” says Marlene, a psychiatric nurse at Lakeland Medical Center. “So we have all those. She also gave us these really wonderful antique wooden ornaments with parts that move.”

Once the house is decorated and the turkey roasted and out of the oven, the family eats their holiday dinner, open presents, sing Christmas Carols and watch the children play with their new toys.

“It’s all about the kids at Christmas time,” says Marlene Johnson. “And it’s all about making it a special time.”

[Clockwise from top left] Each year, Micah Johnson, the Johnsonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; second oldest daughter who is currently working on her doctorate in archaeology, is in charge of decorating the large bay window in front of the house; When long time friend Ruth Grootendorst passed away, she left her holiday decorationsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;50 years of ornaments purchased each Christmas season from the Metropolitan Museum of Art catalogue to the Johnsons; The Johnsons have a large extended family plus they always invite friends and acquaintances that have no other place to go on the holidays, so the large table in the dining room is perfect for holiday meals; The master bedroom with its panoramic views of the terraced backyard leading down to the dock jutting into the St. Joseph River is a perfect retreat for Mike and Marlene; When the wealthy Fickengers moved into the home three decades or so after it was built, they hired Joe Pearson (whose family is still in the construction business in St. Joseph) to renovate it at a cost of more than $50,000. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of money today but during the Depression, it was a fortune.

Pearson added a third floor to the house; The grand scale of the house invites grand embellishments and the master bath fits the bill.

Its second story window overlooks the gardens and river and the large bath invites long soaks.

shore things TASTY OLIVE

2014 45th Street, Highland 219.924.7881. tastyolivecompany.com Tasty Olive Company, located in Porte de Leau Plaza, offers an array of products such as extra virgin olive oils, flavor infused olive oils, balsamic vinegars from Italy, sea salts, pepper jelly, spices, soups handmade pastas and bread mixes to name a few. The store also offers more than 20 oils and balsamic and handmade natural and organic pastas from Italy. Tasty Olive’s website offers favorite recipes from Chile, Italy, Spain, Tunisia, Greece and others.

build Indiana

CK BUILDING & DESIGN CORPORATION 877.448.1516. ckbuildinganddesign.com. With more than 20 years of experience, the builders at this company specialize in custom homes and green building, as well as renovations and remodeling. CK Building works throughout Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana and Will and Cook Counties in Illinois.

DEAN’S LANDSCAPING 238 Kennedy Ave, Schererville. 219.864.9078. deanslandscaping.com. Dean Savarino and his team at Dean’s Landscaping specialize in designing outdoor rooms for the home. Using a variety of hardscape structures such as patios, walkways and retaining walls, combined with other materials and patterns, Dean’s can create a custom backyard for each customer. Customers should call to schedule a consultation.

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MARUSZCZAK APPLIANCE 7809 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville. 219.865.0555. maruszczak.com. For decades, this award-winning, family-owned company has been selling and servicing major home appliances in the Munster area. Its broad inventory includes refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washer/dryers and more, made by virtually every brand in the market. The company is factory-authorized to service everything it sells, and professional in-house delivery and installation services are also available.

MIDWEST WIND AND SOLAR 866.430.0518. Midwest Wind and Solar, LLC specializes in solar electric, solar thermal and wind systems for the residential, commercial, municipal, educational, and agricultural sectors throughout the Midwest. They also provide grant writing, certified site analysis, design, installation, maintenance, and training. With over 25 years of electrical, automation and project planning experience, Midwest Wind and Solar assures superior results.

OMNI ENTERTAINMENT 1151 Southpoint Cir, Ste D, Valparaiso. 219.464.1832. omnientertainmentsystems.com. Omni Entertainment provides custom electronic design solutions for both residential and commercial clients. Services include custom installation of home theaters, multi-zone audio and automated lighting systems, as well as telephone, video security and background music systems for commercial properties.

POPA HEATING AND COOLING 2643 Highway Ave, Highland. 219.838.7700. popahvac.com. Popa Heating and Cooling has been serving the heating and air conditioning needs of the Highland, Indiana and the surrounding area since 1968. With new construction being the initial focus, the company has grown to provide service for all makes and models of HVAC equipment. In order to assure the job is done right, they provide the highest quality of products installed by highest quality technicians. Popa performs a superior system start up to ensure maximum energy savings and longterm comfort.

STEINER HOMES 4825 W 100th Ln, Crown Point. 219.916.3744. steinerhomesltd.com. Steiner Homes offers affordable homes throughout Lake, LaPorte and Porter counties.

The in-house residential home designer works with clients’ ideas, either from a previous plan or starting from scratch. Clients can build on their own lot, or Steiner has access to a variety of lots throughout the area. A variety of features are available, and Steiner is committed to keeping those options at the highest quality and most affordable price.

SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION 2045 East Dunes Highway, Gary, Ind. 219.886.3728.

Superior Construction is the premiere large construction firm in Gary, Ind., having built such notable structures as Saint Mark’s Church, Lew Wallace High School, the Virginia Hotel, and the Memorial Auditorium. Today, that legacy continues, with their safety priority and awards as one of the top companies in that arena in the state.

Michigan

MC COLLUM ARCHITECTS 16109 Red Arrow Hwy, Union Pier. 269.469.9211. mccollumarchitects.com. This full-service architectural firm has spanned 40 years and 100 miles, and has built everything from urban to second home communities, low to upscale housing, single family to multi-family homes, tiny boutique restaurants and even upscale urban eateries. The firm is involved with renovating and creating new housing, amphitheaters, day care centers, and special community development projects designed to create flexible environments.

WATER PLACE 18853 W US 12, Ste 3, New Buffalo. 269.231.5153.

The Water Place is a decorative plumbing and hardware products superstore. With whirlpools, faucets and cabinets, this facility has “everything you need for plumbing services.”

design Indiana

AMBIANCE 9490 Wicker Ave, St John. 219.558.0748. Ambiance’s inventory of new, trendy items as well as stylish gifts are there to help customers express their own voice through their home decor at any occasion. Owners and design experts Jan LeVan and Tina Hines are proud to offer something different to local customers, as well as their help in designing the perfect home space.

ARCHITECTURAL ACCENTS, INC 9760 Indiana Pkwy, Munster. 219.922.9333. archaccents.com. This architectural millwork shop specializes in one-piece curved wood molding and radius millwork. In addition to radius casings for windows and doors, Architectural Accents can customize products for any shape and wood specie.

THE BEACH HOUSE 619 E 3rd St, Hobart. 219.942.0783. The 1,000-square-foot showroom at the Beach House

photo by TONY V. MARTIN

The information presented in Shore Things is accurate as of press time, but readers are encouraged to call ahead to verify the listing information.

COPPER BUTTERFLY 120 S Main St, Crown Point. 219.663.1506.

This hometown boutique with an uptown flair is located in the historic Metcalf Apothecary building built in 1881. The original built-in walnut cabinetry houses trendy fashions, unique gifts, home decor, artisan jewelry, vintage finds, art and fair trade items. Copper Butterfly is a friendly family-owned business and supports “Shop Local.”

DECORATING DEN INTERIORS decoratingden.com. This award-winning international design firm provides fullservice, professional interior decorating.

Well-trained decorators bring their ideas and expertise directly to clients’ homes, along with fabrics, furniture, floor and wall coverings, lighting and other accessories.

FENKER’S HOME FURNISHINGS AND GIFTS 1 1 1 4 L i n c o l n w a y, L a P o r t e , I n d .

2 1 9 . 3 6 2 . 3 5 3 8 . A t F e n k e r ’s H o m e Furnishings & Gifts, they offer quality home furnishings for every room of the home.

Fenker’s carries furnishings for the living room, dining room, den, bar, sunroom and more. They also offer delivery service, clock repair, and design services, and are always available with friendly and helpful advice and recommendations.

INDIANA FURNITURE 1 8 0 7 E L i n c o l n w a y, Va l p a r a i s o .

219.465.0545. athomeatlast.com. Since 1980, this family-owned and -operated company has offered quality home furnishings and customer service. A wide range of home furnishing providers are represented here, including Ashley, Lane and La-Z-Boy. LIKE NEW HOME FURNISHINGS BEACH HOUSE & WICKER GALLERY 619 East 3rd St, Hobart. 219.942.0783. This home decor store offers gently used high quality furniture in their retail space. The store also offers selection of new furniture in their Beach House and Wicker Gallery.

LOU BUTCHER’S FURNITURE WERKS 4 9 8 0 W U S 2 0 , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.872.1700. furniturewerks.com. The Butcher family provides quality furniture upholstery, repair and refinishing. Furniture Werks also offers to work with customers to come up with something new using different finishes or fabrics.

MARY & MARTHA HOME ACCENTS 2044 45th Street, Highland. 219.924.3820.

Mary & Martha offers a wide selection of home accents to help shoppers find the perfect accent piece. Their Highland showroom is filled with gorgeous lamps, unusual wall décor, artful centerpieces and other unique home accents that make a statement in home décor.

Michigan

BAYBERRY COTTAGE 510 Phoenix St., South Haven.

269.639.9615. bayberrycottage.com.

BLUE STAR ANTIQUE PAVILION 2 9 4 8 B l u e S t a r H w y, D o u g l a s .

269.857.6041. bluestarantiquepavilion. com. Antique lovers travel from all over to arrive at this Destination mall, voted “Best of the Best” in a four-state area. BSAP features more than 175 dealer booths of quality antiques, collectibles and other fun merchandise. Even non-antiquers will appreciate the diverse inventory. Patrons can also try “Brewtiquing,” at the on-site award-winning Saugatuck Brewing Company.

CUSTOMS IMPORTS 430 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.9180. customsimports.com. This exotic gallery hosts a large, distinguished inventory of global art, furniture and antiques from India, Indonesia, China, Morocco and Vietnam. Dee Dee Duhn’s showroom features teak root benches, textiles, Indonesian pottery, unique new furniture and an extensive mirror gallery.

Claudia Lobao’s Global Dreams jewelry can also be found here.

HARBOR TOWN INTERIORS 613 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.7774. harbortowninteriors.com. Harbor Town Interiors offers home décor items such as furniture, mattresses, bed coverings, rugs, and home accessories. Gift items and full service design consultation are available.

RED ARROW GALLERY 1 3 6 4 8 R e d A r r o w H w y, H a r b e r t .

269.469.1950. redarrowgallery.com.

Red Arrow Gallery is the largest gallery in southwestern Michigan dedicated to bringing art lovers a vast selection of art from the most talented and unique artists in the area. The collection includes oils, acrylics, sculptures, jewelry, art lamps and sculptural furniture. The gallery offers a varied collection of fine art by established well-known artists as well as talented emerging artists. Furniture artists are available to design and construct one-of-akind pieces that could be the centerpiece of a home.

SANCTUARY at CUSTOMS IMPORTS 430 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.9180. customsimports.com. Born out of a desire for inner peace amidst the nation’s current economic turmoil is Sanctuary, the new store-within-a-store at Customs Imports. Owner Dee Dee Duhn has dedicated this space to feature items promoting quiet and tranquility, including art, music, candles, fountains and incense.

SAWYER HOME & GARDEN CENTER 5865 Sawyer Rd, Sawyer. 269.426.8810. sawyergardencenter.com. The Sawyer Garden Center offers a large inventory of items for the garden, including annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees, plus a variety of high-quality lawn accessories. A large gift shop and gourmet shop—featuring produce, breads, sauces and cheeses—are also on site.

Wisconsin

SOIREE URBAN GIFTS 421 N Main St, Oshkosh. 920.231.2888.

Soiree Urban Gifts & Antiques was founded in 2003 by mother-daughter team Karen and Kia Brey. Soiree carries a wide range of eclectic and salvaged goods, new reproductions, and locally made art as well as gifts, home décor, and a great assortment of lake themed clothing and wall décor.

drive Indiana

ARNELL CHEVROLET 239 Melton Rd, Burns Harbor. 219.787.9200. arnellmotors.com. One of Northwest Indiana’s largest auto dealers features an impressive inventory of new and used Chevrolets, Hummers and Corvettes. Parts, servicing and financing are also available.

B&E MARINE 3 1 L a k e S h o r e D r, M i c h i g a n C i t y.

888.603.2628. bemarine.com. This familyowned and -operated boat store-slashmarina features a large inventory of new Sea Ray and Boston Whaler models, along with an ever-changing selection of used and brokerage boats. Its waterfront location allows B&E Marine to provide on-the-water services, including boat slip rental, storage, hoists and fuel dock.

BERMAN INFINITI OF MERRILLVILLE 1794 West US Highway 30, Merrillville. bermansinfinitiofmerrillville.com. The Berman Auto Group has been serving Chicagoland for over 25 years and has now added an Indiana location. Berman’s Infiniti of Indiana has an experienced and reliable service and parts department with hours that fit your busy schedule. The dealership offers new vehicle sales, pre-owned vehicle sales, car loans, certified financing, a service department, and a full selection of Infiniti parts and accessories.

DORMAN GARAGE, INC 1317 Lake St, LaPorte. 219.324.7646. dormangarage.com. With more than twenty years of experience, Dorman Garage specializes in classic car restoration. Aside from offering restoration services, there is also a large inventory of restored classic automobiles for sale.

HARBOR AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 9 9 1 1 W 3 0 0 N , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.879.6789. harborcars.com. This auto dynamo features new and pre-owned vehicles by Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, GMC, Honda, Jeep and Pontiac.

On-site parts, servicing and financing are also available.

THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOP OF MICHIGAN CITY 2 9 6 8 N H w y 4 2 1 , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.878.8885. hdmichigancity.com.

While the Harley-Davidson brand needs no introduction, the Michigan City store stands out in the crowd, being a member of the largest Harley dealer in the state.

A large selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles are available for purchase or for rent. The store also offers accessories, repair services and periodic events.

LEXUS OF MERRILLVILLE 3957 US Hwy 30, Merrillville. 219.769.4545. lexusofmerrillville.com. Lexus vehicles and customer-service focused sales teams can be found at this dealership, which features new and pre-owned vehicles—including luxury and sport sedans, SUVs and convertibles.

Financing, vehicle services and parts and accessories are also available.

SCHEPEL AUTO GROUP 2 9 2 9 L i n c o l n H w y, M e r r i l l v i l l e .

866.724.3735. schepel.com. This renowned auto dealer in Northwest Indiana offers new and pre-owned vehicles by Cadillac, Hummer, Saab, Buick and Pontiac. The experienced sales staff, plus the extensive online inventory, helps consumers find the car most suited for their needs. Repair services are also available.

Michigan

RUSSELL’S FOREIGN CAR REPAIR 8754 US Hwy 31, Berrien Springs.

269.473.3088. This dealer alternative provides service, repairs and maintenance during the vehicle’s factory warranty and beyond. Russell’s Foreign Car Repair services all imported car makes, but specializes in upscale European and Asian vehicles.

give Indiana

THE JOY OF FLOWERS 6 1 3 F r a n k l i n S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.879.4047. thejoyofflowers.com.

Bernie Scott has owned this full service florist since 1981. The shop offers European and custom designs with imported and domestic flowers, blooming green plants, silk and dried flowers, gifts and more.

SCHOOLHOUSE SHOP 278 E 1500 N, Chesterton. 219.926.1551. schoolhouseshop.com. This quaint collection of shops—located inside a schoolhouse built in the 1800s—features a wide array of gifts, antiques and home décor. Adelaide clothing boutique and the Magic Pantry— which features Marilyn’s Bakery products— are popular favorites at this shopping destination.

WHITING FLOWER SHOP 1341 119th St, Whiting. 219.659.0326.

Established in 1900, this reputable flower shop offers a large variety of floral styles, for an equally large variety of occasions. In addition to flowers, the shop carries a wide selection of giftware and collectibles, as well as plants.

Michigan

THE CHRISTMAS TREE 2675 Mizpah Park Road, Benton Harbor.

269.849.3360. This year-round Christmas store is located 4 miles north of St. Joseph, Michigan. The store boasts beautiful, unusual, sparkling Christmas gifts and decorations, as well as gift ideas for other holidays and occasions.

POSSESSIONS 25 Center St, Douglas. 269.857.1925. possessionsdouglasmi.com. Possessions Gift Shop, located in downtown Douglas, is a destination where visitors can find an array of novelty items, as well as necessities. The gift shop holds clothing, jewelry and home accessories. It also features original art by local artists Lisa Doezema-Schulist, Krista Ardensen, Brandy Schroeder, Eva Snow and Greg Gale.

PURELY MICHIGAN 406 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3300. puremi.com. PurelyMichigan, established in May 2012, offers a fun, unique shopping experience. We offer products designed, created, manufactured and distributed by Michigan individuals and companies. Their inventory includes items such as jams, salsas and sauces, popcorn, chocolates and cookies, maple syrup and honey products, kitchen items, collections of art from local artists, blown glass and beach glass and T-shirts.

eat Indiana

FAIR OAKS FARMS 856 N 600 E, Fair Oaks. 877.536.1194. fofarms.com. This family-owned and operated dairy farm is one of the largest in the United States. The Dairy Adventure gives visitors an up-close experience, including a tour of the cheese factory, where all different types of cheeses are made, and the birthing barn, where about 80 calves are born every day.

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

MC INTERIORS 1 1 0 2 F r a n k l i n S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.872.7236. mcinteriorsin.com. MC Interiors offers a variety of home décor products including window treatments, floor coverings, draperies and upholstery. Services include free in-home consultation and estimates, plus installation of drapery, blinds, carpet, hardwood and ceramic flooring.

One of South Haven’s most well-known shops, Gwen DeBruyn’s Bayberry Cottage features home furnishings and accessories which include furniture, wall décor, rugs, florals and bath and body products.

Interior design services are also available, and items can be special ordered if not in stock.

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features “beachy,” cottage-style home furnishing and accessories. In the store’s lower level, The Wicker Gallery, custom orders are accepted. The store began as and still houses an upscale showroom of very current, high-quality, pre-owned furniture known as Like New.

shore things GREAT LAKES CATERING 701 Washington St, Michigan City.

219.898.1502. greatlakescatering.com.

With a combined 150 years of experience, Ed Kis and family have formed one of the area’s leading catering companies. A full range of services is available for all kinds of events, including catered foods and beverages, bands, tents, tables and more. For 10 years in a row, Great Lakes Catering has been voted Northern Indiana’s premier caterer and special event planner.

MILLER BEACH MARKET PLACE 9 2 5 N S h e l b y S t , G a r y. millerbeachmarketplace.com. Carmella’s Miller Beach Market Place is a centrally located market place providing healthy, e n v i ro n m e n t a l l y re s p o n s i b l e , a n d sustainable products. The store is a landmark casual shopping destination for the residents, guests and visitors to Miller Beach lakefront in Gary, Indiana, located just off the beach in Miller Square. Miller Beach Market Place stocks the finest fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables as well as customer-selected products.

SEATTLE SUTTON’S Various locations, Indiana and Illinois. seattlesutton.com. Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating (SSHE), a family-owned Illinois-based company, offers a convenient no-gimmick approach to healthful eating. The meal program is scientifically designed, tested and has over 25 years of proven results.

SSHE prepares tens of thousands of healthy, delicious meals weekly and its innovative approach has helped thousands of people achieve and maintain weight loss without the planning, shopping or cooking for themselves.

Michigan

THE OLIVE CART 424 Phoenix Rd, South Haven, or 421 State St, St. Joseph. 269.277.5051 olivecart. com. The Olive Cart offers high quality extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars in their West Michigan stores and online for the best in gourmet cooking pleasures. The store offers a tasting room with tapenades, glazes, stuffed olives, fresh-baked breads, pastas, pestos, and unique gourmet gifts featuring Michigan made pottery.

OLIVE MILL 220 Culver St, Saugatuck. 269.857.5900. olivemillsaugatuck.com. The Olive Mill offers imported and flavored olive oils, nut oils, aged balsamic vinegars, and dipping spices for bread, along with chips and dips, tapenades, spreads and sauces. Patrons can sample from the wide variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegars in the store, and items can be purchased online as well.

Several tasty gift sets are available, as well as serving pieces and bath and body creams, oils and shampoos. The Olive Mill also has locations in Geneva and Naperville, Ill.

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Indiana

CENTER FOR IMPLANTS, SEDATION AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY 890 Richard Rd, Ste A, Dyer. 219.227.5084. chicagonodentures.com. The doctors at this state-of-the-art dental office—Dr. Irfan Atcha, Dr. Jasmine Sandhu, Dr. Nilofer Khan and Dr. Romal Sediq—specialize in full or partial implant services. The staff at the center is up to date on the latest technology and offers a pleasant, peaceful and even fun experience with friendly service and a gentle touch.

CARE POINTE EAR, NOSE AND THROAT DOCTORS 801 MacArthur Boulevard, Munster.

219.836.2201. carepointe.net. The otolaryngologists at Care Pointe spend most of their time listening to understand patients’ concerns, and responding with the best treatment options. CarePointe Ear, Nose, Throat and Sinus Center uses the most advanced and up-to-date techniques and treatments, such as minimally-invasive sinus treatments, in-office CT Scanning, balloon sinuplasty, and allergy testing to accurately diagnose and quickly treat patients.

CENTER FOR OTOLARYNGOLOGY 9120 Columbia Ave, Ste A, Munster.

219.836.4820. Bethany Cataldi, D.O., specializes in ear, nose and throat surgery and facial plastic surgery. In fact, she is the only female facial plastic surgeon in Northwest Indiana who’s been specifically trained in surgery of the face, head and neck. Dr. Cataldi’s expertise in such procedures exclusively ranges all spectrums, from topical treatments like skin peels, to hair removal, to full nasal construction.

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL 9 0 1 M a c A r t h u r B l v d , M u n s t e r.

219.836.1600. comhs.org. This awardwinning hospital is a not-for-profit acute care facility with 354 beds and a medical staff of more than 530 physicians. Community’s services include a surgery center, oncology center, women’s diagnostic center, pain clinic and rehabilitation center. One of the hospital’s newest endeavors is the daVinci Surgical System, which is a cutting-edge technological system for prostate cancer.

FRANCISCAN HEALTHCARE— MUNSTER 701 Superior Ave, Munster. 219.922.4200. franciscanphysicians.org. Franciscan Physicians Hospital offers nearly 50 medical specialties and subspecialties in a 63-bed acute care hospital setting. Physicians and staff provide award winning services, stateof-the-art technology and best-in-region staffing ratios to deliver the highest quality of care. An endovascular program led by world-renowned Dr. Paul Jones provides NWI patients the best in heart care.

FRANCISCAN ST. ANTHONY HEALTH 301 W Homer St, Michigan City.

219.879.8511. saintanthonymemorial.org.

This acute care hospital, serving LaPorte, Porter and Berrien Counties, boasts an integrated health care network that is made up of an intensive care unit, a new birthing unit, an emergency department, behavioral medicine, rehabilitation services, medical surgery units, oncology, pediatrics and a multidiscipline physician practice.

FRANCISCAN ST. MARGARET HEALTH 5454 Hohman Ave, Hammond.

219.932.2300. smmhc.com. One of the largest acute-care hospitals in Northwest Indiana, Saint Margaret Health offers myriad services in their Dyer and Hammond locations as well as multiple off-site facilities. The hospital offers all private inpatient rooms, a wide variety of health care services, and state-of-the-art technology.

METHODIST HOSPITALS 600 Grant St, Gary. 219.886.4000. 8701 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.738.5500. methodisthospitals.org. With two fullservice campuses in Northwest Indiana, these not-for-profit, community-based hospitals have a reputation for being one of the region’s leading health care providers. Methodist’s physicians, staff and volunteers proclaim a dedication to quality service, with specialties in multiple areas

of physical and mental health, including cardiovascular, oncology, neuroscience, rehabilitation and behavioral health.

invest

OBSTETRICAL & GYNECOLOGICAL ASSOCIATES, INC 1101 E Glendale Blvd, Ste 102, Valparaiso.

877.462.6249. weunderstandwomen. com. The board-certified obstetriciangynecologists—Drs. Murphy, Rutherford, Short, and Strickland—at this clinic specialize in pregnancy care, family planning, infertility and menopause, along with general women’s wellness. Patients are made to feel at ease because of the clinic’s state-of-the-art equipment and a skilled staff.

PEOPLE’S BANK Various locations, ibankpeoples.com. For more than 100 years, Peoples Bank has maintained a philosophy of commitment to the customer, a belief that has allowed Peoples Bank to thrive and continue to serve the people of Northwest Indiana.

Today, People’s practices banking that is driven by relationships, not just transactions. Because People’s is a locallyowned and managed community bank, they respond quickly and effectively with the service and solutions customers need to meet their financial goals. Headquartered in Munster, Indiana, Peoples Bank provides a wide range of consumer, business, and wealth management products, as well as a tradition of high-quality performance to the residents of Lake and Porter Counties.

The company operates Banking Centers in Crown Point, Dyer, East Chicago, Gary, Hammond, Hobart, Merrillville, Munster, St. John, Schererville and Valparaiso, Indiana.

PINNACLE HOSPITAL 9301 Connecticut Dr, Crown Point.

219.796.4150. pinnaclehealthcare.net.

This acute care hospital prides itself on its small facility; with only 18 beds and 5 operating suites, each patient receives high-quality care and undivided attention.

Owned and operated by physicians, Pinnacle offers a full range of specialties, including orthopaedics, spinal surgeries and women’s health, and is the home to the Indiana Breast Center, led by Dr. Marylyn Rosencranz.

PORTER REGIONAL HOSPITAL 85 E US 6, Valparaiso. 219.263.4600.

3630 Willowcreek Rd, Portage.

219.364.3000. 650 Dickinson Rd, Ste 150 E, Chesterton. 219.926.7755. porterhealth.org. The new Porter Regional Hospital is a five-story 430,000-squarefoot center with all private patient rooms sitting on a 104-acre site with room for growth far into the future. With ten facilities in two counties, Porter provides health care that is recognized on local, state and national levels and offers a continuum of specialized services such as emergency/trauma, cardiology, family medicine, surgery, obstetrics, pediatrics, orthopedics, oncology, sleep lab, physical rehabilitation care and more.

ST. MARY MEDICAL CENTER 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart.

219.942.0551. Known for its outstanding patient care, this nonprofit, acute care hospital has 190 beds and a medical staff of more than 300 physicians. Services featured include an award-winning joint replacement program, comprehensive bariatric and weight loss services, women’s diagnostic center with sameday results, acute care rehabilitation, functional/integrative medicine, heart valve institute, and multiple outpatient facilities throughout Lake and Porter counties.

TRIMBOLI CHIROPRACTIC 706 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.8890, or 12732 Rt 41, Cedar Lake. 219.374.4144. trimbolichiro.com. Dr. Nancy Trimboli has brought chiropractic services to Northwest Indiana since 1993. Trimboli Chiropractic offers many services including chiropractic adjustment using a low-force technique, massage, laser therapy, nutritional counseling, stress management and more.

Illinois

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO MEDICAL CENTER 5 8 4 1 S M a r y l a n d Av e , C h i c a g o .

773.702.1000. discover.uchospitals.edu.

Since 1927, the University of Chicago Medical Center has been one of the Midwest’s most reputable hospitals. Aside from basic health care, the Medical Center consists of a children’s hospital, a maternity and women’s hospital, multiple outpatient facilities, and the renowned Pritzker School of Medicine.

Indiana

Michigan

MUTUAL BANK, KATHY SELLERS 307 W Buffalo St, New Buffalo.

269.469.5552. bankwithmutual.com.

Kathy Sellers is a Mutual Bank agent who services both first-time home buyers and seasoned investors. Mutual Bank specializes in investments and wealth management for businesses and personal clients.

live Indiana

COLDWELL BANKER, DAWN BERNHARDT 2110 N Calumet Ave, Valparaiso.

219.241.0952. dawnbernhardt.com. Dawn Bernhardt is the go-to agent for homes in Chesterton’s luxurious Sand Creek subdivision, along with other properties in Porter, LaPorte and Lake Counties. The website offers an abundance of resources for both buyers and sellers.

COLDWELL BANKER, DONNA HOFMANN 219.331.1133. dhofmann.com. Donna Hofmann, Coldwell Banker and Residential Brokerage, specializes in residential properties in the Indiana Dunes.

McCOLLY REAL ESTATE Various Locations. Since 1974, McCOLLY Real Estate has provided superior service by understanding personal needs. Whether the customer is a first time home buyer, resale, commercial, land, new construction or luxury home buyer, McColly is there to provide the best options. From purchase to financing to rentals and relocating, we provide one stop real estate with you in mind throughout our local communities, nationally and internationally.

PARK WEST 400 Fisher St, Munster. 219.836.8282.

1stmetbuilders.com. This gated community presents an opportunity to live in one of the premier neighborhoods in Northwest Indiana. Each of the 51 estate-sized lots, all 1/3-acre or greater, is bordered by a park, pond, creek or lushly landscaped green belt. Park West has developed the community in partnership with 1st Metropolitan Builders, which is known for building high-quality, custom-built homes, all in a traditional design.

SOURCE ONE REAL ESTATE 855 E North St, Crown Point.

219.662.5445. source1re.com. This

BRIGATA HILLS 200 W 500 N, Valparaiso. 219.746.6881.

Brigata Hills is a luxury new home community located in Porter County, within Valparaiso city limits and just 5 minutes from downtown. Served by the esteemed Valparaiso School System, families living in Brigata Hills have access to academicallyacclaimed high schools, middle schools and elementary education. Less than an hour drive or train ride from Chicago or to the Lake Michigan’s beach towns, the variety of cultural, environmental and entertainment opportunities is limitless.

Michigan

AMERICAN HOMES, SHARON HALLIBURTON 4532 Red Arrow Hwy, Stevensville.

269.208.3862. sharonhalliburton.com. For more than 30 years, Sharon Halliburton has specialized in property management, having been licensed as a real estate agent and a broker more than 10 years ago.

Her expertise covers residential, lakefront and vacation properties, plus farms, golf courses and vineyards.

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 10 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.3950. coldwellbankeronline.com.

New Buffalo’s premier real estate firm features properties in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Both the in-office staff and the Coldwell Banker website offer multiple services and resources for buyers and sellers.

HARBOR SHORES REALTORS 584 Lake St, Saugatuck. 269.857.3900. harborshoresrealtors.com. Principal broker Tammy Kerr and team specialize in helping their clients buy and sell properties in the Saugatuck/Douglas area. Each of the agents are members of the National Association of REALTORS. HARBOR SHORES RESORT 269.932.1600. harborshoresresort.com.

Southwest Michigan’s biggest, most talked about project is underway in Benton Harbor. The residential community will include a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, marinas, an indoor water park and a luxury spa. The property is surrounded by two rivers and five beaches. Custom home sites and cottages are available.

ORCHARD LAKE DEVELOPMENT 269.695.9100. Carefully placed among the trees, thirty lakefront homes have been beautifully designed to take full advantage of the peaceful woods and water vistas.

To insure comfortable, as well as scenic living, features include vertical cedar siding, huge windows, wraparound porches, and spacious, open floor plans. Orchard on the Lake balances high-quality construction

PRUDENTIAL RUBLOFF PROPERTIES 439 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.8300. rubloff.com. Since 1930, Rubloff has been one of the premier real estate firms on the local scene. Serving clients all along Lake Michigan’s southern coast and beyond, the certified sales associates at Rubloff proclaim great success in buying, selling and renting properties along the lakeshore.

SHORES OF SOUTH HAVEN 300 Kalamazoo St, South Haven.

269.637.8555. shoresrealestate.com.

This reputable firm provides assistance with development, sales and leasing of condominiums, single-family, vacation and retirement home sales, along with lots, boat slips and commercial property.

Shores also manages and leases property for investor-buyers.

Illinois

DEWITT PLACE 900 N DeWitt Pl, Chicago. 312.642.7020. dewittplace.com. This 82-unit vintage building, built in 1924, offers corporate housing, temporary furnished apartment rentals and long-term temporary housing solutions. These studio and one-bedroom apartments come with a variety of amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, wireless Internet access, DirecTV satellite service and an exercise room.

pamper Indiana

ABOUT FACE SKIN CARE 2169 US 41, Schererville. 219.227.8697.

About Face Skin Care specializes in a custom approach to treating healthy skin. About Face offers custom facials, microdermabrasion, PCA peels, Swedish massage, airbrush makeup, waxing services and more.

ANTHONY’S SALON 2500 Calumet Ave Ste F, Valparaiso.

219.465.1525. For more than thirty years, Anthony Voltattorni has become established in the Northwest Indiana haircare market, with salons in Merrillville and Valparaiso. The salon carries Aveda and Schwarzkopf products and offers full-service haircare—with a specialty in custom color-as well as waxing, nailcare and reflexology.

COSMEDIC SKIN & BODY CLINIC 210 E 86th Pl, Merrillville. 219.795.1255.

58 E Walton, Chicago. 312.377.3333. cosmedicclinic.com. Dr. James Platis, who has been featured on local and national news programs and has been applauded by Dr. Phil, specializes in all forms of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, particularly breast surgery, body contouring and facial aesthetic surgery. Less invasive procedures include tanning, waxing and facials.

EBONY & CO 888.909.5911. ebonyandcompany.net.

Ebony & Co. is a licensed cosmetology firm specializing in bridal and special events. They hold special events for clients and anyone interested in their services, and strive to provide the best cosmetology services in Northwest Indiana.

ELLE SALON 113 W 8th St, Michigan City. 219.874.3553.

This upscale salon, situated in Michigan City’s historic district, offers full-service hair

care, plus manicures, pedicures and facial waxing. Retail products include skin care, body care, a men’s line, wooden styling tools, a full line of Aveda products, and other calming items such as Aveda teas, candles and oils.

PURE SKIN, LLC 2 5 0 0 C a l u m e t A v e , Va l p a r a i s o .

219.743.5778. Pure Skin offers a unique combination of traditional spa services, medical aesthetic treatments and sophisticated cosmetic laser treatments designed to help clients look and feel their best. Turn back the clock to reveal younger, smoother, healthier looking skin with Pure Skin’s advanced aesthetic treatments.

RIAH SALON 8025 Wicker Ave, St. John. 219.365.6123. riahsalon.com. Riah Salon owners Gwen and Rob Shaver strive to provide an upscale styling experience. Riah’s experienced stylists conduct an image profile while listening to a customer’s preferences before starting their expert hair treatments, including a full scalp, neck and shoulder massage. The salon’s “Riah Retreat” offers customers an enclosed space with soft lights, light music, water fountains and essential oils. Riah Salon also offers guests an extensive beverage list and a hot water bottle in a heart shape to put on their laps if they are cold during their treatments.

STUDIO ONE 9228 Indianapolis Blvd, Ste 3, Highland.

219.923.1915. Dennis Schram and his staff at Studio One present a home-away-fromhome atmosphere at their salon. Seven stylists work on the floor, and they offer a range of services including hair, nails and massages.

VANIS SALON & SPA 221 US 41, Ste J, Schererville.

219.322.5600. 1620 Country Club Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.6414. 107 N Main St Ste A, Crown Point. 219.663.5200. vanis.net. One of Northwest Indiana’s premier salons, Vanis features a welltrained, professional staff for hair care, nail care and spa body treatments. Group and corporate retreats (for four to twenty people) can be arranged.

Michigan

HEATH & COMPANY 419 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.4247. This Aveda-concept salon is one of the familiar businesses greeting visitors to New Buffalo from the south.

Owner Rick Heath and his staff gel their expertise and friendliness, making a trip to this salon more of an experience than a necessity. Services include hair care, nail care, massage therapy and waxing.

party Indiana

AVALON MANOR 3 5 5 0 E U S 3 0 H w y, M e r r i l l v i l l e .

219.945.0888. theavalonmanor.com.

Along with exceptional service, the Avalon Manor boasts elegant interior décor, exclusive bridal suites and a stunning staircase that leads into a beautiful ballroom.

CENTER FOR VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1950. cvpa.org. Up to 450 guests can share in your joy at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts, which features a variety of table options, glass and crystal table settings, and elegant extra touches. The center offers visually stunning elements,

including crystal chandeliers, floor-toceiling windows and an outdoor brick terrace.

LUBEZNIK CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1 0 1 W 2 n d S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. This art center is a sophisticated venue that can transform a wedding into its own work of art. Located on Michigan City’s lakefront, the building features impressive architecture both inside and out. With fine art, photography and sculpture as a backdrop, its three galleries, including the library with its lake view, provide a variety of spaces. Capacity of main gallery: 150 banquet, 250 cocktail.

Michigan

THE BOULEVARD INN AND BISTRO 521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.6600. theboulevardinn.com. St. Joseph’s famous hotel is available for small, intimate wedding receptions, as well as for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and morningafter brunch. The inn can also be a place for guests to stay, no matter where the wedding takes place.

Illinois

GLENWOOD OAKS 106 N Main St, Glenwood. 708.758.4400. glenwoodoaks.com. The private dining rooms at Glenwood Oaks can accommodate 20 to 250 guests. Valet parking, complimentary wedding cake and free limousine services are available.

play Indiana

BLUE CHIP CASINO, HOTEL & SPA 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City.

888.879.7711. bluechipcasino.com. The casino portion of Blue Chip features 65,000 square feet of gaming, all on one level, including more than 2,100 slot games and all the classic table games. The 22-story Spa Blu Tower features a state-ofthe-art hotel, luxury spa and convention center. Dining options include It’s Vegas Baby! and The Game, along with the finedining restaurant William B’s Steakhouse.

HORSESHOE CASINO 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond.

866.711.7463. horseshoe.com. The legendary Jack Binion’s Horseshoe is one of Indiana’s largest casinos, located just minutes from Chicago. More than 46,679 square feet of gaming space includes 2,000 slot machines and 49 table games such as blackjack, craps and roulette. The pavilion’s many dining options include Jack Binion’s Steakhouse, JB’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Village Square Buffet and Uno Express.

PORTAGE PARKS DEPARTMENT 2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage.

219.762.1675. ci.portage.in.us/ department. Offering adult programs, youth programs and other special events, there is always something to do at Portage parks. Picnic or play soccer at one of the 11 parks, or go for run or bike on one of the five trails.

Michigan

FOUR WINDS CASINO RESORT 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo.

866.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com.

Four Winds offers 130,000 square feet of gaming. Patrons can enjoy 3,000 slots, featuring the area’s biggest progressive jackpots and a large selection of table games including blackjack, craps and

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

LAKE PARK PLACE 301 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.429.6666.

301lakeboulevard.com. This new, sevenstory condominium development is being constructed in the historic building that was formerly the YWCA. Residents can choose from 10 floor plans, each of which come with a private balcony. Other perks include an indoor parking garage, indoor pool and 10 years of free golf at two nearby golf courses.

with low-impact land development, thus preserving and enhancing the existing natural landscape.

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independent real estate company provides residential and commercial real estate sales to individuals, small businesses, large corporations, nonprofit organizations, home builders and developers throughout Northwest Indiana. Owners Roger Lain and Joe Gambril bring a combined 30+ years of experience in real estate sales and customer service.

shore things traditional and automated poker in a World Poker Tour poker room. Dining includes three restaurants, from Copper Rock Steakhouse to an all-you-can-eat buffet.

OUTPOST SPORTS 3602 N Grape Rd, Mishawaka.

574.259.1000. outpostsports.com.

Outpost Sports is a one stop store for extraordinary adventures. They are dedicated to providing customers with high quality products that will enhance outdoor activities. Their high quality customer service and friendly work environment allows and requires the staff to participate in all the store’s official outdoor sports, to provide the foremost knowledge to customers.

stay Indiana

BLUE HERON INN 1110 Lakeside St, LaPorte. 800.575.3880. pleastshore.com. Situated on scenic Pine Lake in LaPorte, the Blue Heron Inn features luxury rooms with jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. Guests can choose from a variety of room selections and special packages. Floating boathouses-equipped with a queen bed, sofa and outside deckare also available for lodging during the summer months.

INN AT ABERDEEN 3 1 5 8 S S t a t e R d 2 , Va l p a r a i s o .

219.465.3753. innataberdeen.com.

Located in the beautiful and prestigious Aberdeen neighborhood, just minutes from downtown Valparaiso, the Inn at Aberdeen is a comfortable and convenient place to stay. A variety of unique rooms and suites are available, as well as a Flavia coffee and tea bar, a full gourmet breakfast every morning, and all of the amenities needed for both a personal and business stay. A conference room is available for business meetings and private parties.

INSPIRATION WOOD 642 E. Inspiration Road, Westville.

219.983.9922. inspirationwood.com.

Inspiration Wood is a serene, private environment perfect for retreats, meetings or reunions. Nestled among 60 acres of soaring pines, woodlands and grassy meadows, Inspiration Wood is a tranquil and peaceful setting perfect for any occasion you might have. The Wood encourages wholesome recreation and provides a positive setting for learning and growth.

PET PALS, INC 1 0 3 8 8 W 4 0 0 N , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.879.2898. This upscale pet hotel and grooming salon pampers pets with all-suite runs, ample exercise, high-quality meals, modern grooming equipment, flea treatments, hair bows and nail polish. The 6,000-square-foot building features 65 boarding suites, a separate cat boarding area, and a state-of-the-art grooming facility.

2 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 9

THE RADISSON HOTEL AT STAR PLAZA 800 E 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.769.6311. radisson.com/merrillvillein. This Northwest Indiana staple recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation, which means new carpets, wall coverings, draperies and upgraded bathrooms and beds—Sleep Number!—in the guestrooms.

The hotel also features modern meeting facilities, a spa, two swimming pools and whirlpools, and several restaurants and lounges.

Michigan

BE OUR GUEST 269.487.9530. beourguestmi.com. Be Our Guest has the best in style and comfort that Southwest Michigan has to offer, providing housing and customized concierge services.

Local housing accommodations range from condominiums and family-style houses to Lake Michigan estates.

THE BOULEVARD INN 521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.6600. theboulevardinn.com. Warmth and coziness are a theme at this historic hotel in St. Joseph. From the plush furniture in the lobby to the comfort food at the Bistro, to the luxurious amenities in the hotel’s suites, the Boulevard offers more than just a place to stay. Business and fitness centers are also available for use.

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville.

800.968.7686. crystalmountain.com.

Named the “Number One Resort in the Midwest” by Ski magazine, this 50-yearold resort offers ski and snowboard runs, terrain parks, a half-pipe, a snowsports school and daily NASTAR racing. Guests can also enjoy the property’s first-class lodging and dining facilities.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS ST. JOSEPH 3019 Lakeshore Drive, St. Joseph.

1.888.465.4329. Overlooking Lake Michigan, St. Joseph’s Holiday Inn Express location is ideal. Business guests appreciate being near Whirlpool, Leco, Bosch, AEP D.C. Cook Plant and Lakeland Hospital.

The meeting rooms are ideal for business, family reunions or seminars, and the detailoriented staff can coordinate everything for a stress-free event. The hotel offers free Internet access and a business center.

Family-fun is minutes away with Silver Beach, the interactive Whirlpool Compass Fountain and a Carousel or a trip to Curious Kid’s Museum. The hotel’s location is near the historic North Pier Lighthouse, Four Winds Casino and Notre Dame University.

JW MARRIOTT 235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids.

888.844.5947. ilovethejw.com. Grand Rapids’ newest attraction is the luxury hotel JW Marriott, which accommodates 340 well-appointed rooms and suites on 23 floors. Other amenities include wireless Internet access, 32-inch flat-screen TVs and luxurious bedding. Guests residing on the Concierge Floors have access to the stylish Concierge Lounge.

MARINA GRAND RESORT 600 W Water St, New Buffalo. Hotel Reservations: 877.945.8600. Condo Sales: 888.630.7770. marinagrandresort.com.

Situated on the New Buffalo Harbor, this brand-new, boutique condo-hotel features luxury finishes and fixtures, European kitchens, fireplaces, outdoor seating areas, and stunning lake and harbor views. Pool facilities, fitness and game rooms, and a waterfront restaurant make up an impressive list of amenities. Buyers will benefit from the hotel management’s maintenance and cleaning services and have the option to rent out their residence when not in use.

visit Indiana

BLINK CONTEMPORARY ART 1 7 0 9 F r a n k l i n S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

773.206.0426. blinkcontemporaryart. com. The project of Richard C. Lange and Suzanne Cohen-Lange, Blink is both a working studio and a contemporary art gallery. Blink hosts two to four art shows a year.

INDIANA WELCOME CENTER 7 7 7 0 C o r i n n e D r, H a m m o n d .

219.989.7770. lakecountycvb.com. Sandy beaches, four lakefront casinos, arts and culture, family activities, historical sites, thousands of restaurants and year-round events and festivals are all just a short drive away from both Chicago and Southwest Michigan. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Indiana Welcome Center will help visitors plan their trips to Lake County.

NORTHWEST INDIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 1040 Ridge Rd., Munster. 219.836.0690.

The orchestra, a group of 75 rostered professional musicians is under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor, Kirk Muspratt. The orchestra plays a full season of subscription concerts, in addition to a number of educational outreach initiatives, designed to allow interaction and personal involvement by students represented in each program.

TALTREE ARBORETUM & GARDENS 450 W 100 N, Valparaiso. 219.462.0025. taltree.org. This breathtaking 360-acre reserve is filled with formal gardens, woodlands, wetlands and prairies. Visitors can hike on the trails or view themed displays such as the Native Plant Garden, Oak Islands and—new this year—the Railway Garden. Several outdoor concerts and special events take place at Taltree throughout the season.

THEATRE AT THE CENTER 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecentre.com. This resident theater at the Center for Performing Arts puts on five mainstage productions, which attracts an audience of 50,000 annually.

The theater also puts on productions just for younger audiences as well as offering theater classes for young people and other special events.

VALPARAISO COMMUNITY FESTIVALS AND EVENTS 1 6 2 W L i n c o l n w a y, Va l p a r a i s o .

219.464.8332. valparaisoevents.com.

Valparaiso Community Festivals & Events, Inc. is a not-for-profit, volunteer organization that is dedicated to sustaining the vitality of downtown Valparaiso through the cultivation of partnerships, the creation and promotion of the many festivals, events, and retail establishments that are a vital part of Valparaiso’s downtown.

Michigan

210 ART SPACE 210 Water Street, Benton Harbor.

269.369.0833. 210 Art Space is a cultural center focused on bringing the arts and artistic events to the community of Benton Harbor. Located in historic Benton Harbor, 210 Art Space’s creative exhibitions and events promise something for everyone.

ANNA RUSSO-SIEBER GALLERY 147 5th St, Benton Harbor. 269.208.4409. annarussoart.com. The ARS Gallery sits in the heart of the Benton Harbor arts district.

Opened in 2010 by self-taught artist Anna Russo-Seiber, the gallery offers exhibits and educational programs to establish a fulfilling arts and culture experience.

BLUE GALLERY 16 S Elm St, Three Oaks. 574.276.6001. bluegalleryart.com. Run by owner and art director Judy Ferrara, this well-known gallery features the works of more than 15 artists, including local notables like Joe Hindley and Kellie Pickard. Several art-related events take place here, including a gallery walk every third Saturday of the month, when the facility is open until 9 p.m.

THE CITADEL DANCE & MUSIC CENTER 91 Hinkley Street (dance) and 204 Water Street (music), Benton Harbor.

269.925.9440. citadeldmc.org. The mission of the Citadel is to develop the skills and character of individuals through dance education and performance, and to offer high quality dance instruction to people of all ages and ethnicities for a reasonable fee. All instructors are professionally trained dancers bringing years of experience to the program. The staff of professionally trained musicians and vocal artists provide private lessons year-round for ages 5 through adult.

Kindermusik is offered in terms throughout the year for infants to children age seven.

EMERALD AVENUE 3401 Friday Rd, Coloma. theemeraldavenue. com. A collection of family-owned farms, wineries and small businesses based in Southwest Michigan, Emerald Avenue offers the best in gourmet food and drinks and old-fashioned Michigan atmosphere.

Experience the rich flavors, engaging history and natural beauty of Southwest Michigan with a visit to Emerald Avenue.

FERNWOOD BOTANICAL GARDEN & NATURE PRESERVE 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles. 269.695.6491. fernwoodbotanical.org. Situated on 105 acres of cultivated and natural land, Fernwood is composed of gardens, forests and trails for visitors to peruse. An art gallery, fern conservatory, nature center, cafe and gift shop are also on site, and there are several learning and enrichment opportunities as well.

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids.

616.831.1000. gramonline.org. The Grand Rapids Art Museum is the first art museum in the world to be certified by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Its glass walls, natural light, and reflecting pool further illustrate the fusion between the indoors and outdoors. With its impressive permanent collection as well as changing exhibitions, this 125,000-squarefoot facility is truly a gem in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

JUDITH RACHT GALLERY 13707 Prairie Rd, Harbert. 269.469.1080. judithrachtgallery.com. Located in an old schoolhouse in Harbert, Judith combines contemporary art with other treasures found at auctions and estate sales. She also shows folk art, furniture and quilts, along with offering interior design services.

KRASL ART CENTER 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.0271. krasl.org. Owned and operated by the St. Joseph Art Association, Inc., the main gallery showcases a variety of art from historical to contemporary. The artlab is a gallery specific for audio/visual experimentation. Krasl also offers many educational opportunities and puts on an art fair in the summer.

NEW BUFFALO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION 888.660.6222. newbuffalo.org. The New Buffalo Business Association is made up of more than 100 members representing New Buffalo and neighboring communities.

NEW TERRITORY ARTS ASSOCIATION 210 Water Street, Benton Harbor.

269.926.1926. newterritoryarts.org. The New Territory Arts Association strives to create a vital Benton Harbor Arts District through community outreach and advocacy of the arts. They are a 501©(3) grassroots organization dedicated to the revitalization of the Benton Harbor Arts District with a firm belief that Art Builds Community. The association focuses on bringing four main

OXBOW 3435 Rupprecht Way, Saugatuck.

269.857.5811. ox-bow.org. Ox-Bow offers a wide range of opportunities for artists at all stages in their career. With year-round programs that cater to degree-seeking students, professional artists and those new to the field, Ox-Bow is a protected place where creative processes breakdown, reform, and mature. As much as Ox-Bow is a place, it is also an experience.

Through its affiliation with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Ox-Bow offers one and two-week courses for credit and non-credit for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students.

ROAN & BLACK 3 3 1 5 B l u e S t a r H w y, S a u g a t u c k .

678.777.8730. roanandblack.com. The vision behind Roan & Black is to feature both contemporary art and found objects in the same place. The gallery features established and up-and-coming contemporary artists.

ROUND BARN WINERY 10983 Hills Rd, Baroda. 800.716.9463. roundbarnwinery.com. Located in a historic round barn in Southwest Michigan, Round Barn Winery produces some of the premier Michigan wines from local grapes and ingredients. Tastings and events available.

SIGNAL POINT CLUB 1475 W River Rd, Niles. 269.683.7073. signalpointgolf.com. Boasting a beautiful golf course, situated on bluffs next to the St. Joseph River, Signal Point Club is a serene and peaceful destination that compels visitors to return again and again.

It is the finest manicured course in the area, with a challenging layout; requiring a variety of shots. The clubhouse, situated near the 9th and 18th greens, has eventhosting capabilities as well as a lovely view.

SILVER BEACH CENTER 333 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.982.8500. silverbeachcarousel.com. Brand new to St. Joseph is this family-friendly center, which features an abundance of fun and unique activities for people of all ages.

The primary attraction is the Silver Beach Carousel, a spectacular structure that features 44 colorful, hand-carved horses.

Also at the center is Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone, the Shadowland Ballroom, Whirlpool Compass Fountain, and Michigan’s tallest kaleidoscope.

SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN TOURIST COUNCIL 2300 Pipestone Rd, Benton Harbor.

269.925.6301. swmichigan.org. The natural attractions of Southwest Michigan—the dunes, miles of scenic Lake Michigan beach, rivers and parks with hiking trails and biking paths—offer beauty in every season. The friendly staff at this nonprofit organization can assist travelers whether they seek solitude or a group learning experience.

WATER STREET GALLERY 98 Center St, Douglas. 269.857.8485. waterstreetgallery.com. This contemporary fine art gallery features original work by

wear Indiana

ALBERT’S DIAMOND JEWELERS 711 Main St, Schererville. 219.322.2700. albertsjewelers.com. Besides the fact that Albert’s showcases 12,000 square feet of jewelry, the store in itself is an entertainment destination. A bar, largescreen TV, dance floor and karaoke are among the many ways that patrons can let loose while browsing every type of fine jewelry imaginable. Brands include Cartier, Breitling, Omega, Tacori, Roberto Coin, David Yurman, Mikimoto, with more than 100 feet of bridal jewelry on display.

ALEXIS FINER FASHIONS 2548 45th St, Highland. 219.924.8510.

Alexis customers can enjoy the unique fashion choices the store has to offer, whether buying for work, vacation or everyday wear. With a convenient location, passers-by can’t miss these fantastic fashions.

BEACH BUM JEWELS 621 Franklin Street, Michigan City.

219.743.9595. beachbumjewels.com.

Linda Mickevicius began making jewelry out of salvaged beach glass in 2006. As the obsession with beach glass continues to grow, so does the beach glass jewelry business. Linda has been joined by her daughter Jamie, and grandchildren Garrett, Andrew and Matthew in the sea glass jewelry making process. Each of the three generations of family members has a key role in the business. Linda and family’s unique designs bring the serenity of the waves to any ensemble.

DARLING BOUTIQUE 418 Franklin Square, Michigan City.

219.210.3298. darlingmc.com. Just opened in Spring of 2012, Darling Boutique works to bring together a unique collection of clothing, jewelry, handbags and other accessories. Jewelry designer Julie Biehl adds to the collection with her handcrafted jewelry.

ELEGANCE WEDDING AND EVENING WEAR 2820 Highway Ave, Highland. 219.923.0977. elegancewedding.net. With a dedication to its customers and commitment to excellence, Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear is a onestop shop for all bridal needs, including gowns, jewelry and invitations.

ELIZABETH FASHIONS 748 E US Hwy 30, Schererville.

219.322.8772. Owner Elizabeth Woodbury has brought high-end women’s clothing to Northwest Indiana for ten years. Designer lines featured include Garfield and Mark’s, Zelda and Geiger, and jewelry and accessories are also available. A seamstress is on site at both locations.

ENGSTROM JEWELERS 820 E Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.369.6580.

A new fixture of LaPorte’s downtown is a branch of the Munster-based Engstrom Jewelers. Offering fine-quality jewelry, diamond and gemstones, as well as repairs and custom design, Engstrom adds a shimmer where once was a pawn shop.

Brands include Gelin Abaci, Citizen Watch and Movado.

INDIAN SUMMER, CHESTERTON 131 S Calumet Rd, Chesterton.

219.983.9994. This women’s clothing boutique offers casual and contemporary clothing and jewelry from around the world. Indian Summer features brands such as Sympli, Oh My Gauze, Connie’s Moonlight, Habitat, Miracle Body and San Diego Hat Co. The Chesterton shop offers a large selection of apparel, jewelry and accessories, while the original New Buffalo storefront continues to feature its quality inventory for those on the other side of the lake.

JUDEE’S 1104 Indiana Ave, LaPorte. 219.324.6443. judees.com. Owner Judee Gartland and her daughter frequently travel to the garment districts in New York and Chicago to build the inventory in their store, which is situated in a stately Victorian home in downtown LaPorte. Clothing for all occasions is available here, including formalwear.

Designers include Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, Neon Buddha, Alex Evenings and Brighton bags and accessories.

L.R. MEN’S CLOTHIER & TUXEDOS 205 Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.324.5072. lrclothingco.com. High-quality menswear and tuxedos are the highlight at this shop, which is one of the only men’s clothing shops in downtown LaPorte. Tuxedos come from brands like Ralph Lauren, Perry Ellis and Ecko, while menswear designers include Austin Reed and Tallia.

LIGHTHOUSE PLACE PREMIUM OUTLETS 6 0 1 W a b a s h S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.879.6506. premiumoutlets.com.

Located near the lake in the historic district of Michigan City, this aptly named outlet store has become one of the largest shopping destinations in the region. With 120 outlet stores in an outdoor village setting, patrons will find savings at places like Burberry, Coach, J.Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.

MARTIN BINDER JEWELER 23 Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.462.5931. martinbinders.com. Martin Binder Jeweler is a family-owned jeweler located in downtown Valparaiso, IN. Since opening their doors in 1940, three generations of the Binder family have helped Martin Binder Jeweler grow from a small watchmaking shop to a destination for the finest diamonds, jewelry, Swiss-made timepieces, writing instruments, and giftware. Their services include custom jewelry design, engraving, jewelry repairs and watch servicing.

MORIARTY’S GEM ART 126 S Main, Crown Point. 800.348.4499. moregems.com. Owners and in-house artists Nancy and Steve Moriarty customdesign jewelry in platinum and 18- and 14-karat gold, using fine diamonds and rare collector gems. With thirty years in the business, world travel to Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, and other international destinations, Moriarty’s has been recognized in the trade as one of the finest gem cutters and jewelry designers in the U.S. URBAN SOLES 6 2 4 F r a n k l i n S t , M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.221.6508. urbansolesinc.com. This brand new boutique—located in Michigan City’s downtown arts district—features a diverse array of high-quality shoes and accessories from brands like Poetic License, Dansko, Ugg, Toms and Sanuk. Jewelry, hats, purses and scarves are available, and there’s even a men’s room with men’s shoes, hats and sunglasses, plus comfortable seating, a TV and a stocked refrigerator. Art from local and Chicago artists is featured throughout the store.

Michigan

CRESCENT MOON 413 Phoenix Street, South Haven.

269.637.5119. Situated in downtown South Haven, this boutique features women’s apparel that ranges from dressy to casual to sportswear. Brands include Lole, Fresh Produce, and Pure. Also available are shoes, jewelry and home décor items, including Mariposa serving pieces.

DK BOUTIQUE 213 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.7313. dkboutique.com. This contemporary women’s clothing boutique in downtown St. Joe offers limited edition designer apparel, cool new accessories and the latest designs in jewelry from Pandora Jewelry. With something for everyone, from teenagers and older, DK Boutique provides the most current styles that are full of flair.

EVE BOUTIQUE 318 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.4372.

This boutique for women is a longtime favorite among visitors to downtown St. Joseph. Owned by Rachel Arent, Eve specializes in artisan-designed clothing and trendy jewelry and accessories. Some of the more popular designers found here include Linda Lundstrom, Lee Andersen, Sympli, Painted Pony and Fenini. Eve’s selection of linen clothing is wildly popular among customers.

INDIAN SUMMER, NEW BUFFALO 126 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo.

269.469.9994. This women’s clothing boutique offers casual and contemporary clothing and jewelry from around the world. Indian Summer features brands such as Sympli, Oh My Gauze, Connie’s Moonlight, Habitat, Miracle Body and San Diego Hat Co. The the original New Buffalo storefront continues to feature its quality inventory, while the Chesterton shop offers a large selection of apparel, jewelry and accessories for those on the other side of the lake.

IVELISE’S YARN SHOP 1 6 0 1 L a k e s h o r e D r, S t . J o s e p h .

269.925.0451. iyarnshop.com. Ivelise’s Yarn Shop is a full service knitting and crochet shop celebrating 50 years of continuous business in Southwest Michigan. The shop offers a large selection of yarns, featuring Madelintosh, Malabrigo, Lorna Laces, Cascade, Stonehedge, Plymouth and many more. There is also a large selection of both bamboo needles and addi Turbos.

STUDIO K 43 E 8th St, Holland. 616.393.7900. This contemporary women’s boutique adds a spice of new flavor to Holland’s impeccable historic downtown district. Clothing (for work and play) from designers such as Trina Turk, Fashionista, Hale Bob and Joe’s Jeans are available in sizes two to twelve. A distinctive collection of handmade jewelry, belts and purses can also be found here.

THIRD COAST SURF SHOP 212 State St, St. Joseph; 110-C N Whittaker St, New Buffalo. 269.932.4575. With two stores a short drive from Chicago in beautiful St. Joseph and New Buffalo, Michigan, Third Coast Surf Shop is the Great Lakes premier source for everything freshwater surfing. Their online surf shop offers the Lake Michigan surfing forecast and order surf clothing, accessories, and gear. They also offer Great Lakes surf schools, lessons, and rentals for all ages.

For more business listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

ST. JOSEPH TODAY 421 State St, St. Joseph. 269.985.1111. sjtoday.org. Visitors to St. Joseph will find a variety of helpful information—on shopping, dining and events—at this welcome center. St. Joseph Today is a nonprofit organization that assists and encourages local business and tourism development.

regional, national and international artists.

Works include painting, glass and sculpture.

The staff at Water Street will also help select art for private and corporate clients, and works closely with interior designers.

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events to Benton Harbor every year: Art Hops, 3rd Thursday Film Series, Benton Bizarro and their flagship fundraiser, Artoberfest.

shorecast predictions by fran smith

For more astrological advice, be sure to check out Fran Smith’s regular blog on visitshoremagazine.com.

playwright and director DAVID MAMET

[sagittarius]

NOVEMBER 23DECEMBER 21 Key Words in December: Personal Efforts and Endeavors. This is an extraordinary way to close out the year. Soughtafter meetings advance confidential matters and current projects. But don’t linger. Be certain that you play to all your audiences.

Sidestep your brand of arrogance.

Key Words in January: A New Objective. Leave no stone unturned in your quest for financial security.

Know precisely what you want as developments find you in the midst of winning conversations that are incredible. Sidestep an abrupt withdrawal from an ongoing relationship.

[aquarius] JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 18 Key Words in December: Your Secret Agenda. This last month fits your style perfectly, as you move ahead through out-of-the-blue contacts and the social scene. Actually, the desires-of-your-heart are about to drop into your lap.

Sidestep the serious argument or the difficult debate.

[cancer] JUNE 21-JULY 22 Key Words in December: Your Environment. High activity is permeating both your personal life and your work. You do, however, have a choice. Either go into hiding or deal, one or one, with a current involvement. You can win!

Sidestep an unwillingness to even discuss the situation.

Key Words in January: Behind-the-Scenes. The creation of new strategies—either alone or as part of a collaborative effort—permeate your environment. Just keep working, regardless of what others do or say. An absorbing new cycle is on the horizon. Sidestep divided loyalties.

Key Words in January: Alliances, Agreements; even, the Sought-After Contract. Yes, this is all possible – if you start the talks. Rely completely on that fabulous raw instinct of yours. Current conditions demand it. So, act! Sidestep sending mixed signals—personally and professionally.

[pisces] FEBRUARY 19-MARCH 20 Key Words in December: Reaching the Mountain Top. It’s a very real possibility—in career-related matters—if you allow your personal magnetism to thrive. Let yourself be part of the physical world—and its joyful activities—all around you. Sidestep being disinterested.

[leo] JULY 23-AUGUST 22 Key Words in December: Close Relationships and Creative Matters. Getting your enthusiastic point-of-view across to others permeates this last month of 2013. And one close relationship now demands all your time and attention.

Sidestep saying the first thing that comes to mind.

Key Words in January: Getting-What-You-Want. This is what you’re most interested in. Know that discipline, on your part, is required. You do have hidden planetary backup. So, apply this gently to all existing conditions.

Sidestep overlooking the reactions of those close to you.

Key Words in January: The Work Scene. As the New Year begins, it can be your power play month. Stay absolutely focused on matters at- hand. And leave nothing to chance as a former agreement shows signs of reworking itself.

Sidestep a lack of interest in the current subjects.

[aries] MARCH 21-APRIL 20 Key Words in December: New Ideas, New Plans, New Projects—near and at a distance. You now ignite workrelated matters—and your relations with co-workers and close associates—with some outside- the-box ideas. Be the courageous You! Sidestep whatever is lopsided.

[virgo] AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 22 Key Words in December: Base-of-Operations. Lighten, but don’t release, your hold on current home-related situations. You have a fine advantage which you won’t hesitate to use. Take care, though. You could win the battle and lose the war. Sidestep a reluctance to take direct action.

Key Words in January: Your Career. Dramatic developments continue, to your advantage. However, know exactly who you want to be involved with. And allow time to go over the fine points—especially the financial fine points. Sidestep secrecy if it works against a special relationship.

actress NICHELLE NICHOLS

[capricorn] DECEMBER 22JANUARY 19 Key Words in December: Confidential Matters and Secret Plans. There’s no time for distraction as you work, and rework, secret strategies. And you select a special group of associates to work with.

Only you, however. know the entire game plan.

Sidestep disinterest in matters that matter.

4 VISITSHOREMAGAZINE.COM 9

Key Words in January: Center Stage. The first month of every year is the start of your personal New Year. And 2014 is no exception. Focus on what you intend to accomplish, as few things are more powerful than that. Sidestep keeping details—that can be shared—hidden.

For more about what’s going on in the firmament, check out Fran Smith’s website at starcast12.com.

Key Words in January: Close-To-The-Heart. An element of “all for love” exists, as intense dialogue fills the air. And your ability to be sarcastic, when least expected, surfaces throughout the month. Be certain that what you say strengthens your cause. Sidestep the stinging observation.

[taurus] APRIL 21-MAY 20 Key Words in December: Revitalization, on all levels.

This includes a stronger position for you—mentally, emotionally, physically, financially, and spiritually.

Money is definitely involved, so pace yourself. Timing is everything. Sidestep skimming over the surface of important material.

[libra] SEPTEMBER 23-OCTOBER 22 Key Words in December: Expressing Yourself. A frisky month develops as your cash flow increases. Scheduled meetings as well as unexpected visitors pull you in different directions. Pay attention to who’s actually there—not to anything else. Sidestep being out-ofbalance—consistently.

Key Words in January: Concepts and Proposals.

Time for some serious activity. Welcome in the New Year as your sense of purpose is restored. You’ve just entered an amazing new dimension within work-related matters. Sidestep a slow to response to calls, e-mails, or text messages.

Key Words in January: Home-Related Matters. And this includes where- you-live and where-you-work.

Your best partner is still yourself. With that in mind, quiet time is called for as you create a new schedule of events. Sidestep putting distance between you and a sought-after goal.

[gemini] MAY 21-JUNE 20 Key Words in December: Special Arrangements and Favorable Terms. Let go of the recent past. New ideas have it! Research them, outline them—and let them win.

Applies to both your work and an affair- of-the-heart.

Sidestep any environment that’s filled with confusion.

[scorpio] OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 22 Key Words in December: Income and Lifestyle. Substantial backup appears out of nowhere. And it’s precisely what you need. Yet, demands that you do anything you’re not ready to do, are wasted. Others soon learn. Advisable, though, to stay in balance. Sidestep not going for it!

Key Words in January: A Total Renewal. Unique plans— but with a down-to-Earth approach—move everything forward. Now’s the time to go back to the drawing board, focus your mercurial energy—and take it—one project at a time. Sidestep being difficult, if not impossible, to find.

Key Word in January: Communications. Private calls and conferences are threaded throughout the month. This is very good. But don’t just let this slip by. Weave vital details into those calls and conferences. And emerge victorious!

Sidestep ignoring the urgency of certain issues.

WANT MORE? please go to page 30 or visitshoremagazine.com for a full listing of the area’s best events.

Dec 6

HOLLY DAYS 5-7pm, Central Park Plaza, Lafayette and Indiana Sts downtown Valparaiso 219.464.8332 valparaisoevents.com Downtown Valparaiso celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with holiday music, ice carvings, a holiday village market and a live nativity.

STRICTLY SAIL CHICAGO 11am-8pm Thu-Fri, 10am-7pm Sat, 10am-5pm Sun, Navy Pier Festival Hall A&B, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago strictlysailschicago.com The nation’s largest indoor “all-sail” boat show has become a must-attend event for all sailors.

Attendees can see, board and buy boats; attend seminars and have more fun than ever at this 19th annual show. Activities include seminars from an impressive group of speakers, live do-ityourself tutorials, a remote control sailing pond, a kids corner and more.

Jan 25

11TH ANNUAL GARDENING SHOW 8am-4pm, Porter County Expo, 215 E Division St, Valparaiso pcgarden.info Sponsored by Purdue University Cooperative Extension and its Porter County Master Gardeners, this award-winning event features presentations by national, regional and local gardening experts, special lodging and dinner packages, a seed and bulb exchange, a garden photography contest, a children’s corner, food service and 100 exhibitors and vendors.

Feb 1

BEV’S SECOND SEASON BALL 6:30pm, Silver Creek Convention Center, Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo newbuffalo.org Attendees can escape the winter blues at this chocolate fantasy celebration put on by the New Buffalo Business Association. The night begins with an open bar and hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner, dessert, a silent auction and dancing until midnight with music by The Whistle Pigs.

Lake Michigan

DECEMBER 2013/JANUARY 2014

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shore picks

last resort

Card Games

busy living life to write about it.)

When does the card arrive? I have a hypercompetitive, “classicoverachieving-mom” friend whose card is intentionally the first to land in my mailbox every year. (The legendary “But-It’s-Still-November Delivery of 1998” is still buzzed about in certain circles.) Conversely,

by KATHRYN MACNEIL I’m friends with a frazzled, neveron-time mother of ten children (yes, you read that right) who sends out When normal people start anticipating the holiday a lovely photo of the whole family season, their main focus is on gift shopping, travel/ every January, and I’m astonished that she was even able to carve vacation time, reunions with loved ones…and, of course, out enough time to list all of their cookies. But for me, the highlight of the season is the names on the back.

Does the sender embrace holiday cards (and, of course, cookies). tradition? When we lived in a small town in Ohio, we were told that if you receive a Christmas card with the Three Wise Men on the cover and hang it over your front doorway, you will have prosperity es, I’m a Christmas card geek. I can’t wait in the New Year. After a casual mention of this superstition to rip into those enticing red envelopes and to my in-laws many years ago, the shelf above my door is analyze the contents, hungry for information now gloriously littered with a decade’s worth of dusty cards about an old acquaintance. portraying the famous trio.

When examining a card, the first order Does the sender like to stand out in a crowd? I love the of business is to calculate the “Information memorable cards that I can count on, year after year: the wife of Index”—roughly equal to the number of a former chemistry professor formats the text of her newsletter personal details that can be harvested, into the shape of a snowman; my neighbor’s newsletter is always multiplied by the percentage of those details that are potentially written from the point of view of the family dog; a childhood embarrassing. The lowest score on this scale is achieved by buddy who’s now a kindergarten teacher writes 26 facts about generic, secular cards with pre-printed address labels and her family that each start with a different letter of the alphabet; engraved signatures. Higher-ranking are cards with actual another good friend—who happens to be an entertainment signatures plus an enclosed photo, and these also edge out the columnist—always includes a photo of himself posing with a ubiquitous Walmart photo cards. But the Cadillac of Christmas celebrity whose identity is carefully kept a secret until the card cards—the real jackpot—is the much-maligned family newsletter. arrives in the mail. And, in what may be the most creative twist I don’t know why newsletters get such a bad rap. Sure, like of all, my stubbornly nonconformist college roommate always Facebook posts, they are essentially just vehicles for three types sends me something that is increasingly rare and precious: a of information (bragging about kids’ accomplishments and bona fide, handwritten letter on non-holiday notepaper. activities, complaining about physical maladies, or describing Are there important changes that need to be recognized? exotic travels), but when these predictable updates are Of course I love seeing the yearly portraits evolve as friends’ surrounded by a jaunty border of holly and poinsettias, somehow babies suddenly are off to college…even though my peers can’t the over-sharing becomes palatable to me. possibly be old enough to have these grown children. But some Obviously, a newsletter only depicts the sanitized, shiny milestones are more poignant: for twenty years I received a surface of a year: it goes without saying that when it comes to cheery card from a dear aunt and uncle; then one year it was kids, you’re going to read about the mission trips to Nicaragua, signed in the trembling handwriting of my recently widowed the newly minted Eagle Scout, and the academic scholarships— aunt; and the next year, my aunt’s signature was written in but not the totaled car, the psycho ex-boyfriend, and the an unfamiliar hand…and the return address was that of a gluten allergies (wait, strike that: you are always nursing home. Those are the cards that gently going to hear about the gluten allergies). remind us to keep in touch with cherished But look deeper; there’s so much loved ones more than once a year. more to learn: Sadly, with the advent of social How carefully is the card networking and email, it seems prepared? Is the text immaculately that the traditional holiday centered on expensive, card is going the way of the decorative paper? (The soon-defunct handwritten sender is either a thank-you note. But to those perfectionist or has of you who recognize the too much time on annual missive as the precious his or her hands.) Is touchstone that it is: be bold, and it a hastily composed, stay committed. (And if you happen typo-ridden half-sheet to choose a card with the Three of white copy paper? (The Wise Men on the cover this year… sender is clearly not hung feel free to add me to your list.) up on appearances…or is too

READING BETWEEN THE LINES

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rAM bObb auTO gROuP - Ram • 19 11009 West 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 219-374-7171 • www.bobbcars.com

SuBAru NIelseN subaRu • 22 5020 u.S. highway 6, Portage, IN 888-503-4110 • www.nielsen.subaru.com subaRu Of meRRIllvIlle • 23 1777 W uS rt 30, merrville, IN 855-423-5957 • www.subarumerrillville.com

TOYOTA lake shORe TOyOTa • 21 244 Melton Rd. (US 20 @ I-94), exit 22A Burns Harbor, IN • 219-787-8600 www.lakeshoretoyota.com Team TOyOTa • 44 9601 Indianapolis blvd., highland, IN 219-924-8100 • www.teamtoyota2000.com TOyOTa ON 30 • 46 4450 E. RT 30, Merrillville, IN 219-947-3325 • www.toyotaon30.com

VOLKSwAGEN hIghlaNd vOlksWageN • 8 9601 Indianapolis blvd.

(VW Sales & Service) (855) 445-0108 • www.HighlandVW.com Team vOlksWageN • 50 3990 E. rt 30, merrillville, IN (one mile east of the mall) 888-805-3689 • www.teamvwaudi.com

CoNtACt Your tImES’ mEDIA CoNSuLtANt to fEAturE Your buSINESS IN thE tImES Auto DIrECtorY

VALPARAISO

71 16

MiTSuBiSHi

4

65 23

9

MERRILLVILLE

CROWN POINT

7 36

15 16 17 18

50 34

46 51

48

5

CROWN POINT • (219) 662-5300 MUNSTER • (219) 933-3200 poRTagE • (219) 762-1397 VaLpaRaISo • (219) 462-5151