Shore Magazine

style & culture

march/april 2013

STRUCTURED

&Constructed

AT THE PEAK George Rogge and Susan Rutsen

RECONSIDERING

HYDE PARK CLASSICS

INCLUDING John ‘Records’ Landecker REMEMBERS GEORGE AQUINO Gets Far on $10 Jane Ammeson on UNKNOWN HOMES

Sterling silver charms from $25

A romantic sunset on the beach...

EXPLORE OUR VARIETY OF TROPICAL CHARMS.

711 Main Street • Schererville, IN 46375 • 219.322.2700 2173 Southlake Mall • Merrillville, IN 46410 • 219.769.1976

contents

March/april 2013

46

Hyde Park Houses By paul ranogaJec

Now that Hyde Park has gained fame along with one of its residents, we profile some of the most interesting homes in the neighborhood.

photo courtesy of Library of Congress

46

40 Hidden History Revealed

By Julie Dean Kessler

Alene Valkanas and James McComb find footprints of the past during renovation of their quaint, peaceful cottage in Union Pier.

42 Dumpster Diving Décor

By Kim ranegar

Eclectic furniture creators and décor rehabbers from Illinois, Indiana and Michigan tell us why they’re addicted to upcycling people’s trash into treasure.

52 Blame it on the Boogie Check By ricK Kaempfer

visitshoremagazine.com

An exclusive excerpt from John Landecker’s upcoming book, ‘Records’ Truly Is My Middle Name, written with Shore contributor Rick Kaempfer.

54 Spans of Time By marK loehrKe

Most bridges are functional, but some include an element of beauty. We explore some of Southwest Michigan’s historic and unique bridges.

56 City in a Garden By Jane ammeson Julia Bachrach, historian and city preservationist, tells us about the park plans of early Chicago, and how urban planners hope to revive them today.

58 Decaying Architectural Wonders By Jane ammeson

Due to their proximity to architectural mecca Chicago, Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan attracted attention from famous architects.

61 Reversing the Flow

By Kate Van WinKle

The Chicago River has a greater use than being dyed a festive green in March.

Read about its history and the engineering achievements it took to make it the river we know today.

78 18th Street Brewery By roB earnshaW

Drew Fox, founder of 18th Street Brewery, wants to give Gary the craft-beer haven it deserves.

on our cover photograph by Tony V. Martin hoMe owners George Rogge and Susan Rutsen location Miller Beach, Indiana

style & culture

march/april 2013

Structured

&Constructed AT THE PEAK george Rogge and susan Rutsen

RECONSIDERING

HYde PARk clAssics

including John ‘Records’ landecker RemembeRs geORge AQuinO gets Far on $10 Jane Ammeson on unknOwn HOmes

2

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The righT ApproAch To

SAnd Creek BeAuty First time offered! Three floors of finished space. 9,000 square feet: 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, main floor suite, large kitchen, outside entertainment area with pool, fireplace, and slide. Three media rooms, play room, 2nd kitchen in lower level, architectual details, 3 fireplaces, exercise room, exceptional landscaping, sound systems, fabulous 2 story Great Room, kitchen fit for a gourmet cook. All the bells and whistles!

Now Offered at $1,895,000!

under ContrACt

eStAte AreA

1723 Amen Corner Crt.

1534 SneAd Avenue

1719 Amen Corner Crt.

1.8 acres with 5 bedrooms, open porches

Nearly new 1.5 story Quality

On One Beautifully Landscaped Acre

Approximately 1 acre site with 4

front and back to take in the views. Pool,

Construction with 4900 sq feet finished.

this Lovely all brick home with fully

bedrooms, 4 bath all brick home. Main

carriage house, 2 bars, finished basement,

4 bedrooms, 6 baths, 1.42 acres,

finished walk-out basement, main floor

floor master suite, sun room, hardwood

library, butler’s pantry, formal dining, living,

hardwood floors, main floor master,

master, large dining , theater room, 4

floors, Formal dining, finished daylight

family room, main floor bedroom, large

5 car heated garage, inground pool,

fireplaces, office, 3 season’s room also.

basement with recreation room, bedroom

upstairs master suite and 3 fireplaces.

Beautiful setting on a water feature

Patio’s , porches, creek with bridge all near

and bath. Upper level has 2 bedrooms with

Sweeping wide staircases, gazebo and

and cul de sac, daylight basement.

all the amenities that Sand Creek

shared bath. 3 car heated garage. The

has to offer.

views of the waterway are fantastic!

Offered at $849,000/Lease

Offered at $670,000

formal gardens.

Offered at $1,393,000

Offered at $1,249,000

Lots aVaiLabLe in sand Creek sold

other area 543 n. old sT. rd. 2

Various Lots

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.

in Phase V, IV. Call for prices

Offered at $899,000

leased

1058 Mission hills cT.

on The golF course and pond

3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhouse,

This all Brick Quality Construction

walk-out unfinished basement with

is just the right size for a weekend

crawl, SS appliances, new carpet,

home. 3 bedrooms, Open Concept,

new paint, Formal living, dining , den

2 car plus cart garage. Sun Room,

with fireplace. Large master with

Living Room, Keeping Room Kitchen,

double sinks, walk in closet and tray

See thru Fireplace, Breakfast Bar,

ceiling. Loft area. End unit. Backs up

And Oh what Views!

to woods.

Offered at $424,500

Priced to Sell $279,900 or LEASE

from $79,900

chesTerTon, 1321 n. BruMMiTT road

1710 snead aVenue

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

$139,900 1361 neLson driVe

sold

Wooded Golf Course and Creek Views .468A

Offered at $375,000

$145,000

chesTerTon, TaMarack

1220 ryder road

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 4 bath open floor plan with Brazilian Cherry Floors, Main Floor Master/Study/Full Finished Basement on a pond with a 3 car garage.

Golf Course Lot .85A Pond Views

leased

sold

gaTed sandcreek 1712 snead aVenue

golF course and pond

Brick 2 Story on a Pond with

Location! This home has 3900 sq feet

Circular Drive, Main Floor Master,

of living area. Covered verandah

Hardwood Floors, 4 beds, 4 baths

across the back of home. Main Floor

Study, 2 patios, over

Master Suite, 3 bedroom suites

4200 sq ft above ground.

on upper level. Hardwood floors, professional kitchen.

Offered at $694,000

Offered at $635,000 or LEASE

$175, 000 1709 snead aVenue Large Golf Course Lot Pond and Fairway Views 1.6 Acres Walkout Possible

7.48 Wooded Acres. Ranch with 3 bedrooms, Master with sitting area, 2 fireplaces, formal dining, living, open kitchen to family room.

Brazilian cherry floors. New furnace, Hot water Heater.

sold

Offered at $469,900

$399,900 two GoLf Course Lots

laporTe , karen courT TiFFany Woods

in the Highlands Area of Sand Creek Breath Taking Views

All brick 5,000 plus sq ft. 3 Story Home 6 beds, 6 baths, in-ground pool, near expressways and Briar Leaf Golf Club.

$79,000 and $69,000

Offered at $548,900

sand Creek

Michigan ciTy, 364 Furness road

chesTeron, indiana Just 55 minutes to Chicago’s Loop

call me about other sand creek lot listings

sold

Nearly new on 11acres with pond, wooded, detached workshop and garage. Walkout basement finished, 5 beds, exceptional kitchen, hardwood floors, close to Dunes, train, expressways.

Offered at $567,700 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 $849,750

contents

March/april 2013

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White City of 1893 Ball Open Doors Gala Ronald McDonald House Fundraiser Double M Gala Star Plaza New Years Party Methodist Mardi Gras Coronation Chef of the Year Gala Rhapsody in Swing Musical Preview Fischoff Music Benefit

house & grounDs shorelines 11

INTRO

12

LISTEN

Jessie and Vincent Leman of Uncommon Handmade are taking the world by storm with their unique home décor items, furniture and accessories.

Great Lakes musician Lee Murdock explains why he’s a one-man folk festival, and we offer up some rockin’ tunes for St. Patrick’s Day.

visitshoremagazine.com

14

SHAW THOUGHTS

16

CULTURE NUT

18

MOTORING

Andy Shaw reflects on the his four-year anniversary of his exit from the world of broadcast journalism and the start of a new venture.

Elmhurst Art Museum features a new exhibit that examines the way we think of our homes.

Audi introduces the A5 and S5 for 2013 with high-tech upgrades; BMW’s Alpina B7 hits a sweet spot for the performance-minded aficionado.

84 20

THE GOOD LIFE

22

INTERVIEW

By Jane ammeson

George Rogge builds a house on the beach inspired by Mies Van Der Rohe, complete with minimalist color and giant windows.

George Aquino shares his favorite 10 stops around the globe that can be enjoyed for less than $10.

The “Crown Prince of Glassware” gives an inside perspective on a multinational family, and how to be a tastemaker in a cultural industry.

24

GREEN NOTES

26

A FINE MESS

last resort 96

Time Keeper

By Kathryn macneil

Sometimes I like living in the moment, instead of constantly hankering for a simpler time.

South Bend Silverhawks baseball team rescues a local historical synagogue from certain destruction and gives it a new life in merchandise.

Rick Kaempfer can’t contain his glee when his Pulitzer-prize winning hero Mike Royko deems his work genius (after several glasses of gin).

Minimalist Luxury

hotspots 34 80 88 94

Essential Events Bite & Sip Shore Things Shorecast

8 9 10

Publisher’s Letter Editor’s Letter Contributors

photography by [clockwise, from top left] andy Mikonis, Jayne Toohey, george aquino, Tony V. MarTin

clicKs

6

publisher’s

letter

T

his winter was non-stop drama. everyone was trying to tap into the race for the finish line that last week of the year. the Boys & Girls Club tolleston project, which has been the focus of my ‘spare time’ for the last two years, hit a milestone by completing the demolition phase right around new Year’s eve. now the fun can start: We’re building the new club at last.

A Blueprint for SucceSSful BABieS Planning a family today or in the future? Take time now to develop a blueprint for a healthy pregnancy.

At Obstetrical & Gynecological Associates, Inc., our regular annual well woman exam includes an assessment of your health history along with the physical exam itself, which includes a breast exam, a pelvic exam and an assessment of your overall health.

If you are planning to become pregnant, you should discuss your plans with your doctor to identify the risks and learn what you should do to protect the health of your baby before it is even conceived. Your doctor will want to know if your immunizations are up to date, recommend possible changes in your diet and nutrition, discuss risks that can impact your baby and help you plan for a healthy pregnancy.

Our trained physicians also provide support and treatment for couples experiencing fertility problems. We offer assessment, education and individual guidance to help our patients get the optimal treatment.

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Our skilled physicians are here to answer your questions and help you achieve the family of your dreams. We offer the most advanced obstetrical and gynecological care in Northwest Indiana.

As a group of all-female, Board Certified Obstetricians and Gynecologists, we understand women. We are women—sisters, mothers and daughters—just like you.

Dr. elizabeth rutherford MD FACOG

visitshoremagazine.com

Accepting New Patients Glendale Medical Center 1101 E. Glendale Blvd., Suite 102 Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 462-6144 (877) 462-6249 Visit us at www.weunderstandwomen.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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It has been a very up and down sports season as I waited and waited for my Blackhawks to start playing. It wasn’t too hard on me early on as my beloved Denver Broncos who kept winning and winning with Peyton Manning at the helm. Rooms were reserved in New Orleans and time was set aside to enjoy the event. Problem was the Broncos suddenly lost to the eventual Super Bowl XLVII Champion Baltimore Ravens. Ugh! There was so much tension in the air that even our dog Jackson, who is as good-natured a friend of man as could be, was becoming a nervous wreck.

While it wasn’t real fun around the Masterson household for a few days, the Blackhawks then began to play and what a start they had! I started thinking about all the money I saved from not needing to make the trip to New Orleans. So Julie got new granite counter tops in the kitchen and I got the chance to go fishing in one the largest reservoirs in the U.S. at Lake Texoma, which is also one of the richest areas for recreational sports with two wildlife refuges, two state parks, 54 federal parks, 12 marinas, 26 resorts, a bunch of top-notch golf courses and hundreds of campgrounds.

The area, located close enough to be accessible to Dallas-Fort Worth, gets millions of visitors a year and the growth in popularity of water sports there has been nothing short of phenomenal.

And what did I do while I was down on Lake Texoma? I caught the four biggest freshwater fish that I have ever caught including a 58-lber, 60-lber, 70-lber and a 95-lber. The 95-lber (catfish) was out of the water for about an hour and a half so they estimate that it lost between 3-4 pounds and probably came out of the water at around 98-99lbs. Yes I know they are very ugly prehistoric looking creatures but it was fun, fun, fun. I didn’t catch these monsters by myself. My brother Bob and stepdad Buck Calfy teamed up with me to get them in the boat and my mother, Dixie, came along on the trip which made it all the more special. (Take a look at the photos at VisitShoreMagazine.com, in the Travel section. You won’t believe these catfish!)

I caught the four biggest fish (other than Marlin fishing) that I have caught ever including a 58-lber, 60-lber, 70-lber and a 95-lber.

The 95-lber (catfish) was out of the water for about an hour and a half so they estimate that it lost between 3-4 pounds and probably the water at around I am living proof Deliciouscame out ofFlickr Twitter98-99lbs. I guess Retweet that amazing things can happen at Lake Texoma. (Take a look at the photos at VisitShoreMagazine.com, under the Travel section.

You won’t believe these catfish!) back in next month with a complete Facebook We will be MySpace StumbleUpon Digg report on a range of personal adventures, from resorts to full-participation extreme sports.

Bill Masterson, Jr. Slash Dot Mixx Flickr Delicious

Skype Twitter

Technorati Retweet

Reddit Join LinkedInDigg Delicious TwitterYouTube Retweet Facebook MySpaceFollow StumbleUpon us at ourFlickr FriendFeed connect

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community at Facebook.com/ shoremagazine

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editor’s

letter

T

he architecture issue is an aesthetic experience and not just because there are so many stunning homes to examine in these pages, starting with George rogge and susan rutsen’s perfectly poised and splendid duneland house. the view from the outside in is as panoramic and scenic as from the inside out. George explains to Jane ammeson how he has been drawing up the plans for the place for decades, so he didn’t need a designer as much as he needed a translator who could decipher his dream and literally draw it out with building instructions. isn’t that what architects always do? structuring and constructing dreams that last forever?

On the surface, Alene Valkanas and James McComb’s Harbor Country project started as rehabbing a cottage, a small annex building and a chicken coop turned into an artistic incubator campus, with a guest house and a studio. Fortunately for us they kept records of the transition. Kim Ranegar discovered upcyclers everywhere from Allegan to the north side of Chicago. The salvage-and-fix patrols who dive in dumpsters have an unusual gift for imagining what they might be able to coax from stuff others have given up on. Paul Ranogajec, an architectural scholar, explains how that impulse of the artist in the service of communitybuilding made Chicago happen. Hyde Park started its life as the first of the very nice suburbs. For years, the most famous and intriguing for connoisseurs was Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House at 5757 Woodlawn, but that formidable giant now stands down to a more modest Hyde Park house built years before at 5046 South Greenwood. Of course, it’s the family home of the Obamas.

Alongside that we have a scenic catalogue of Southwest Michigan bridges, an historic tour of the creation of Chicago’s park system and a directory to marvelous buildings that have fallen off the map, are hiding in plain sight or in jeopardy. I don’t know what to make of the House of Tomorrow, which was so highly-prized at the 1933 World’s Fair, as it gradually falls apart with no savior in sight. And while you can understand why it was left to die, a lovable relic is still a relic. Our last stop on the tour is courtesy of Kate Van Winkle who introduces a fascinating story about how the canal that links the Chicago River with Lake Michigan was built in the first place.

And presiding over this universe, John “Records” Landecker, one of the very few surviving broadcast personalities with the story of his amazing life and career. We are fortunate to have the first excerpt of his autobiography, Records Truly is My Middle Name (Eckhartz Press, 2013).

Don’t forget our Fashion on the Shore event at the Heritage Center in St. Joe is set for a Friday night, April 26th. The emerging designers last year blew everyone away and we have lined up another stellar group of artists for the program this year.

In May we have some travel plans but in the meantime keep up with us online at visitShoreMagazine.com and in our two weekly Shorelines e-newsletters and on Facebook and other networks.

scan this Qr code with your mobile device to subscribe

9

repin Shore choices on your pinterest board

march/april 2013

Pat Colander

contributors Paul ranoGaJeC is an independent art historian specializing in American architecture. He is currently completing a Ph.D. from the City University of New York. He works as Executive Associate at the Open Society Foundations. He loves writing, traveling and studying architecture styles from all periods of history. riCK KaeMPFer is an author/writer/ blogger, and featured Shore columnist.

His column “A Fine Mess” chronicles his bungled attempts at coping with everyday life. Rick has written several books, including collaborating on the upcoming biography on John Landecker, ‘Records’ Truly Is My Middle Name (available at eckhartzpress.com).

Before becoming a full-time writer, Rick was a radio producer and host for more than twenty years, working alongside such Chicago radio legends as Steve Dahl and Garry Meier, and John “Records” Landecker. For the past six years Rick has also contributed a weekly blog to the Northwest Indiana Times Your Family section entitled “Father Knows Nothing.” His three boys insist that column is aptly named. His wife Bridget is too nice to publicly agree.

Kate Van WinKle is an environmental reporter for the Medill News Service and recent Chicago transplant. Originally from Austin, Texas, Kate worked in communications at several local businesses before moving to the Windy City to pursue a career as a journalist.

She is still learning to love cold weather and wind chills. She enjoys traveling, sailing, drinking coffee, rock climbing and reading obscure British literature. Kate earned a B.A. and B.S. from The University of Texas at Austin and is currently pursuing an M.S. at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism.

0 visitshoremagazine.com 1

KiM raneGar is an Indiana-based freelance writer with an eclectic resume over 20 years running, including advertising agency work, speech writing and magazine features. She’s fascinated by everything from healthcare and government to travel and decor. Her story in this issue, Dumpster Diving Decor, highlights the innovative thinking behind local design gurus who are experts at translating junk to genius. “For years I’ve embarrassed my family by screeching the car to a curb for some vintage chair or door. These people do it brilliantly,” she says.

style & culture

publisher Bill Masterson, Jr. advertising operations Manager eric Horon 219.933.3346 eric.Horon@nwi.com 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 traffic Manager tom Kacius creative services Manager ami reese 219.933.3398 ami.reese@nwi.com pre-press and operations special projects Manager Kris Julius 219.933.3378 Kris.Julius@nwi.com

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

volume 9 / number 1

editor / associate publisher Pat Colander 219.933.3225 Pat.Colander@nwi.com Managing editor Kathleen dorsey 219.933.3264 Kathleen.Dorsey@nwi.com Department editor laVeta Hughes 219.933.3353 laVeta.Hughes@nwi.com associate editor eloise Valadez 219.933.3365 eloise.Valadez@nwi.com Design Director Ben Cunningham 219.933.4175 Ben.Cunningham@nwi.com Designer april Burford lead photographer tony V. Martin contributing editors Jane ammeson Heather augustyn lois Berger Christy Bonstell Claire Bushey John Cain Marcia Froelke Coburn Jane dunne Jeremy Gantz terri Gordon dave Hoekstra rick Kaempfer lauri Harvey Keagle Julie dean Kessler Mark loehrke sherry Miller Phil Potempa andy shaw Fran smith Megan swoyer sharon Biggs Waller contributing artists and photographers ryan Berry Jennifer Feeney 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, in 46321, or 1111 glendale blvd, Valparaiso, in 46383.

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

>> intro <<

an ‘uncommon’ start to handmade art

-Danielle Ziulkowski

march/april 2013

photo by Tony V. MarTin

“homey meets modern” décor and fashion accessories online. the collection of brightly colored clocks, wooden doilies, rings and wall art mixes old-fashioned charm with clean, contemporary designs. the lemans were a match, relationship- and businesswise, from the start. Vincent grew up in his family’s custom cabinetry shop in Francesville, ind. “i’ve been drawing and creating since i was a kid,” he says.

“My artistic venting finds its way out in furniture and wooden carvings. it’s just a medium for me to express myself.”

Combined is Jessie’s trained eye in graphic design. “i like the whole idea of crafts and making things with your hands to turn a sketch into something real and physical that you can touch and interact with,” Jessie says.

“We really do make a good team,” Vincent gushes. “it’s about putting your heart into it.” “and having a connection to a piece,” Jessie says, finishing her husband’s sentence. “that’s what attributes to a feeling of home.” uncommon Handmade items are available through etsy at etsy.com/shop/uncommon or at uncommonhandmade.com.

11

F

or Vincent and Jessie leman, turning their crafty creations into sellable décor was the most unexpected and enjoyable wedding present they received. the duo had already been making custom furniture together for some time when they married in 2006. the blossoming business grew suddenly and quickly right around the time of their nuptials.

Just one month after their wedding, the newlyweds took their show on the road, literally, to a wholesale market in Philadelphia. due to the many orders from different galleries and stores, the couple needed to design their products full time.

“We didn’t really decide we could do our craft for a living. it was a decision that made itself for us,” Vincent admits. “that’s the moment where we took the dive and decided ‘we are really going to do this.’” uncommon Handmade items are designed and crafted from the leman’s studio near their home in Valparaiso, indiana, yet pieces have sold in Chicago, West elm stores, australia, Paris and Japan. they make pieces individually, but each creation serves as a collaboration between the two.

Born between their unique chemistry together and artistic drive since childhood, the twosome’s furniture line expanded in 2009 to include a variety of handmade items. uncommon Handmade offers

shorelines >> listen <<

Lee Murdock

Great laKeS aMBaSSaDor for tHe PeoPle

“I

am inspired by the human condition and the emotional response to things that happen,” says Murdock, who lives in Kaneville, Ill. Before he began producing “the music of the people” as a career, Murdock explored the depths of the natural world in school. He received a bachelor’s degree in earth studies from Drake University and pursued an interest in continental glaciation for a time.

It seems fitting that when he embraced singing as a vocation, his artistic expression found a home in the Great lakes, natural beauty that was formed by extraordinary glacial activity. “there was a guiding hand in all of this,” Murdock says.

“When I am talking about this, I am vibrating about it because there is a natural resonance with these songs, and the artist needs to follow that.” folk music caught his interest when he was a young boy in the 1950s, an era when the Kingston trio and Burl Ives were popular.

Murdock’s specialty in maritime music can be traced back to his discovery of a collection of folk songs compiled by University of Michigan professor Ivan Walton, which is housed at the Bentley Historical library.

Walton had interviewed elderly sailors who had worked on tall ships on the Great lakes when they were young, and they had told him about

2 visitshoremagazine.com 1

the songs they had sung while working, their voyages and the characters they had met.

Walton’s work helped Murdock see the Great lakes as a repository of great folk songs. “there was this whole completely different world of folk songs I didn’t know existed as extensively as it did,” Murdock says, comparing Great lakes folk songs to those of the appalachian Mountains and the blues of Mississippi’s Delta region and louisiana.

Murdock has found his true calling as a maritime folk singer, based on his remarkable success. He has released 18 albums of maritime folk music and three books over his career, and he presents 150 shows annually, mostly in the Midwest. His most recent album, Here We’ll Stand, recalls the War of 1812 on its 200th anniversary and offers British, Canadian, american and Native american perspectives on the war.

“I am very proud of that work,” he says.

In addition to performance, Murdock channels his devotion to music through teaching. He has taught others to play instrumental guitar for the last 30 years.

He learned the instrument on his own, an experience that opened his eyes.

“When you teach yourself, you don’t know what you’re not supposed to do, and it opens up horizons,” Murdock says. “It’s a great journey.”

He is dedicated to activities that positively influence the human spirit, which is why he participates in Chicago’s Christmas tree Ship program. the program provides Christmas trees to deserving families each year on a Saturday in December.

“You see the looks on the kids’ faces, and it makes it all worthwhile,” Murdock says.

Murdock lends his name to the program and appears at the event. In a desire to portray the hard work the volunteers do and the joy the recipients feel, he made a music video, Christmas Tree Ship USCGC Mackinaw Comes to Chicago 2009, set to his song, When Big ‘Mack’ Comes to This Harbor. It’s available on Youtube. to learn more about Murdock and his music, visit leemurdock.com. -loretta kuJawa

photography [this page] by Jayne Toohey; [opposite page] PauL beaTy, aP

lee Murdock is a man whose passions are rooted in the everyday world—its natural rhythms and its common people.

• He sings its praises as a Chicago-area maritime folk singer, turning his gaze toward many muses, including the Great lakes. His repertoire runs the gamut, which is why he refers to himself as a “folk festival in one person.” and his love for the human spirit can also be seen in his service as ambassador for Chicago’s Christmas tree program.

Playlist Rock and Roll Music for the Wearin’ of the Green

Whether you’re drinking a green beer or waiting with the throngs downtown to see the St. Patrick’s Day parade, March 17 is a day when everyone gets to be Irish, their ethnic roots notwithstanding. • Here are a few songs guaranteed to get you into the Irish spirit for a day of emerald green festivities. more appropriate than on March 17, when all Americans have their eye on the emerald isle. coMe on eileen dexy’s midnight runners Although the band hails from England, not Ireland, most listeners don’t know that— Come On Eileen is a New Wave standard on St. Patrick’s Day, with just enough bouncy pop to get your feet moving. bright siDe of the roaD van morrison Another one of the great Irish rockers of the 20th century brings us what certainly must be his most optimistic track—definitely appropriate for a good old-fashioned party in the street in the chilly days of mid-March.

sunDay blooDy sunDay u2 For those of us in the U.S., hardly a St. Patrick’s Day goes by without hearing this song once (or twenty times).

U2’s anthem lamenting the “troubles” between the two Irelands is a modern rock and roll classic, and never

i’M shipping up to boston the dropkick murphys Moving into the Celtic Punk genre, there’s no one like the Dropkick Murphys to get a real party started.

This song, about a sailor searching

seven Drunken nights dubliners This traditional Irish drinking song has been covered by many groups over the years. Though it makes no bones about enjoying a pint or two (or more), this song is like many popular Irish drinking songs—it gained its popularity in the neighborhood pub. Slainte!

Devil’s Dance floor Flogging molly You can spot a great dancing song as soon as you hear the first notes sometimes, and this is one of them. It’s a real foot-stomping tune that goes well with a pub singalong and a pint of Guinness. she’s so MoDern the boomtown rats Irish rockers The Boomtown Rats, with lead singer and activist Bob Geldof, released this song in 1978, before their international hit “I Don’t Like Mondays.” While

the latter song is more fun to sing along to, this one is better for a party. She’s So Modern is an aggressively New Wave example of the Boomtown Rats oeuvre.

DonalD where’s your troosers irish rovers This song, about a Scotsman who wears a kilt instead of long pants, isn’t exactly Irish, but at this point in the night, who can tell? This comic Celtic track is a good shout out to the fierce neighbor of Ireland, Scotland.

Danny boy bing crosby As the evening wears down and the pub crawl grinds to an ungainly halt, there’s no better way to close out the day than with a karaoke swan song version of Danny Boy— preferably in the style of Bing Crosby. -kathleen dorsey

march/april 2013

i can’t stanD up for falling Down elvis costello Originally released by duo Sam and Dave in 1967, the Elvis Costello cover was included on his 1980 album Get Happy. This upbeat tune by one of Ireland’s most famous native sons will put a smile on your face and make you appreciate your surroundings.

for his wooden leg, was featured in The Departed, a movie that won Best Picture at the Oscars in 2007. It’s also become an anthem for various Boston sports teams.

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the isle of innisfree the Quiet man soundtrack This beautiful melody featured in the classic Irish film, The Quiet Man, featuring John Wayne, is a perfect and wistful way to wake up early in the morning as the sun rises on St. Patrick’s Day. Even if you aren’t Irish, this song will make you long for a homeland you didn’t know you lost.

the chicago river is dyed green ahead of the st. patrick’s day ay parade.

shorelines >> shaw thoughts <<

hope and Change Journalists love to mark anniversaries because they invite reflection—they’re great opportunities to connect the dots between then and now, with color and context. invested in our re-tooled program, pro bono consultants held my hand, and we slowly assembled a talented staff that made us a relevant anti-corruption civic watchdog once again.

We investigate, litigate, educate and advocate (guess I learned to rhyme by covering the rev. Jesse Jackson) and we’re having an impact. Many units of government are beginning to spend tax dollars more fairly, accountably, honestly, transparently and efficiently, which is what we demand.

So I’m still enjoying a job I thought would last two years at most before I found something else to do. Mary’s been a great support and an enthusiastic cheerleader, even though she periodically wonders when I’m going to “retire” for real. I’m almost 65 and blessed with grandchildren and a great Michigan getaway house so maybe it’s not that far off. f. Scott fitzgerald was a great writer but dead wrong when he said, “there are no second acts.” life, like theater, has many acts— some predictable, others totally out of left field. the BGa job is a lovely example of the latter.

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S

o I happily took a pass on a Presidential Inauguration for the first time in 25 years. I enjoyed watching former colleagues fight the cold and the logistics to tell the stories I told for twoand-a-half decades. and I marked the occasion with a toast to my Shore friends for letting me fill a page in every issue with a column, illustrating it with creative caricatures and, in this case, giving me a deadline that marks one of my most important personal passages. a chance to reflect on four fascinating years. an unexpected “second act” that’s flown by in a nanosecond. a very happy anniversary. -andy shaw

illustration by daVid MoseLe

S

o when Shore editor Pat Colander gave me a deadline of January 21st for this column, the date rang a bell, and then I remembered why: It’s one day after President obama’s first Inauguration in ’09, and that’s when I said good-bye to aBC 7 in Chicago after covering politics for 26 years.

Happy anniversary!

Inaugural weekend in Washington was bitter cold in ’09, packed wall-to-wall with people, and a logistical nightmare for reporters who had to move around with camera crews to cover events and get them on tV. D.C. was on virtual lockdown, with most vehicle traffic prohibited and armed law enforcement everywhere.

But there was “hope and change” in the air—the crowd epitomizing the campaign mantra and sense of history the obama election represented—so we battled the elements and got our stories.

Very challenging and very satisfying, like a lot of breaking news coverage.

I knew it was my last hurrah because I had carefully planned my departure from aBC and the tV news job I enjoyed for so long. It was still fun, but after thousands of stories and thousands of hard deadlines, it was starting to feel like Groundhog Day and I was burning out. even so, I hemmed and hawed during those final months, had second and third and fourth thoughts, fought off bouts of doubt and pangs of panic, and eventually decided to go through with it—to exit stage left and get on with the rest of my life.

So on January 21st, the day after the Inauguration and four years before this deadline, I did my final wrap-up on the 6 o’clock news and bid a live farewell to the anchors, the folks behind the camera and the viewers who made our comfortable lives possible. that was my version of “hope and change.”

If you had asked me then what I’d be writing about now, here’s what I would have said: Mary and I are taking a few months off and then I’ll explore my options in and out of journalism, including teaching, writing and political consulting.

If a new journalism opportunity comes along I’ll probably grab it; if not, I’ll cobble together enough part-time gigs to make a few bucks and stay busy. the last thing I expected to do was take on the challenge of revitalizing a struggling Chicago-based civic watchdog organization, the Better Government association, without any management or administrative or nonprofit experience.

I remember meeting a friend for a drink a few weeks into the job in the summer of ’09. the first thing she said was, “What were you thinking?” It was the depth of the “Great recession” and she thought I was crazy.

But she sent us a check for a thousand dollars anyway, probably out of pity. turns out we didn’t need pity. this was an exciting opportunity. Government was a mess at all levels, I knew how it should and shouldn’t work, the BGa had a great history, and the timing was perfect.

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shorelines >> culture nut <<

The art of house and home Elmhurst Art Museum explores living spaces in new exhibit Portal by alberto aguilar

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“I enjoy going into people’s homes and creating monuments out of their personal objects,” he says. He commented it was a wonderful experience making something different out of common articles and objects.

While in the process of creating the pieces in the exhibit, aguilar says he was given free rein in every person’s home he visited. “as I go around I look at things I think I can create a sculpture out of. they let me roam free. It was fascinating,” he says. It’s also an interaction between artist and homeowner, aguilar adds.

When he blends the items together in unique ways he also feels as though he’s creating something significant out of an individual’s personal property and treating them with respect. the monuments are often something people wouldn’t even think would be crafted out of their items. among items he’s used are a bird cage, table, books on a bookshelf, artificial fruit and other common household objects.

In addition to aguilar’s works, other artists such as ann toebbe have works displayed in collage and paint; with photography exhibited by alyssa Miserendino. Miserendino has documented houses that have been abandoned.

Various programs will run in conjunction with elmhurst art Museum’s exhibit. artist in residence alberto aguilar will also have various programs throughout the duration of the exhibit, including tours, workshops and a special dinner. for more information, visit elmhurstartmuseum.org -eloise marie valadez

programs at elmhurst art museum friday night spotlight: exhibiting artist ann toebbe, 6:30 p.m. feb. 22. toebbe will discuss her cut-paper collages and paintings. • friday night spotlight: exhibiting artist alyssa Miserendino and screening of short documentary film Our World Insideout: Brazil, 6:30 p.m. March 15. Miserendino will talk about her project Our World Insideout including discussing the documentation of her abandoned childhood home.

photography courtesy of eLMhursT arT MuseuM

T

he subject of house and home is the foundation of a fascinating new exhibit at the elmhurst art Museum in elmhurst, Ill. Open House: Art About Home, continuing through april 20, is a multi-faceted display of various art works from the imaginations of seven artists. “the exhibit [speaks to] what a home is today and how we define it,” says Staci Boris, elmhurst art Museum’s chief curator. She says the exhibit is an interesting “commentary and observation” on the idea of home in contemporary life.

“We have an actual home incorporated into the museum building which is Mies van der rohe’s McCormick House,” says Boris, adding the house itself was an inspiration for the new exhibit.

Boris, who’s been at the helm of the museum since last July, says she wanted to center an exhibit around that landmark van der rohe structure since it’s a monumental part of the institution.

Open House: Art About Home puts the spotlight on works by artists alberto aguilar, who is elmhurst art Museum’s artist-Inresidence; Martin Hyers, Gabrielle Garland, William Mebane, ann toebbe, alyssa Miserendino, and Don Baum. there are sculptures, photographs, paintings and other visuals.

Boris said Baum’s work acts as a type of prelude to the exhibit. “they’re works (house-shaped sculptures) all constructed out of found objects that are cleverly cut and reassembled,” the curator says. artist-in-residence aguilar, she says, offers a very unique perspective with his work.

“He’s created what he calls ‘domestic monuments.’ I’m really amazed in the way he assembles them. He often likes to put things through other things. I’m struck by the beauty of these objects that you wouldn’t normally think are beautiful,” Boris says. aguilar’s domestic monuments are created from objects he borrows or gets from people’s homes. He then refashions them into bold and interesting sculptures. artist aguilar, of Chicago’s Southwest Side, said the Home exhibit was a rewarding project to work on.

“I think it was also a good opportunity to get to know some of the residents of elmhurst,” as well as the Chicagoland area, he said, adding he received most of the rin-tin-tin and objects he’s used in the Pigeon by his works from locals. don baum

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shorelines >> motoring <<

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2013 audi a5 and s5

hough industrial design pervades our surroundings, automobile styling may be its most hotly debated aspect. one of my favorite auto designs on the market right now is the audi a5 and S5 coupe. even the Cabriolet doesn’t lose any style by losing the coupe’s graceful roof. Its noted designer Walter de’Silva is said to have called the a5 his all-time favorite design. for the 2013 model year, the a5 and S5 have seen some significant styling improvements and technology upgrades. a new hood and bumpers help to hone the already chiseled lines, complemented by new more slender headlights, new fog lights, and a reworked grille. New leD taillights on S5 are optional on a5. Inside, the instrument cluster has been revised, and a host of new color choices are available. the rocky Mountains were the perfect setting with lots of curvy roads to test the legendary grip of audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system. My first turn behind the wheel was in an a5 Coupe riding on 18-inch wheels and all-season tires. returning to the a5 is audi’s excellent 2.0t turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an impressive 211 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque. While a front-wheel-drive only a5 Cabriolet is available with a continuously variable transmission in the optional Quattro is the way to go. all the coupes have Quattro standard. a5s get either a six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed tiptronic automatic. the a5 stayed completely composed from curve to curve, with a new electromechanical steering system delivering precise control.

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2013 audi a5

Quattro would not relinquish any grip, even on the base tires. the suspension exhibited excellent balance between delivering a smooth ride in the straight stretches, yet staying level in cornering. Uphill segments were no problem thanks to the 2.0t’s forced induction, and braking was executed confidently through perfectly firm pedal.

Next we stepped up to an S5 Cabriolet to try its new supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 333 horsepower and 325 lb. ft. of torque. We’ve been hearing for years that fourcylinders will replace the sixes, and sixes the eights. that day has come. the V-6 in the S5 clocks zero to sixty miles per hour in 4.9 seconds, which is the same as the V-8 it replaces, and gets better fuel mileage while doing it. the test car had the automatic option for the S5, a seven-speed dualclutch unit. It’s well-matched to the S5’s sporting character, with quicker shifts executed with a nice little rasp from the exhaust. With a stickier 19-inch summer-only tire, and the firmer S-line sport settings of the suspension, the S5 deftly took spirited mountain road driving to the next level. the Cabriolet has a few features and amenities of note. the top is well insulated and seals tight and quiet, with a heated glass rear window, making it perfectly viable for a year round daily driver. even leD reading lamps are offered for the rear seat. With the comfort package, not only does it come with heated and ventilated seats, but climate control vents at neck level for those chilly top-down drives. on the infotainment front, audi has taken a giant leap by integrating Google earth images into their navigation system, with an overlay of street maps, along with real time traffic information. Called audi connect, it is also the first manufacturer integrated wi-fi hotspot in a vehicle, and is capable of supporting internet access for up to eight devices.

photography [this page] courtesy of andy Mikonis; [opposite page] Chris TedesCo

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he urge to make a great car design better is probably as old as the car itself. Unfortunately, the vast majority of would-be hot rodders can’t match the engineering talent assembled at an automaker. However, every so often one genius emerges. In 1965, Burkard Bovensiepen looked at the BMW 1800, saw more potential, and developed a line of performance parts for it. Someone at BMW noticed. His company alpina became an officially sanctioned tuner, selling specialty BMW automobiles through BMW dealers worldwide.

While other markets receive a selection of alpinamassaged BMW models, the US gets only the alpina B7 for 2013. the BMW 7-Series, already seeing numerous upgrades for 2013, is absent an M-Series sport model, so the alpina B7 fills that gap. But alpina’s philosophy is a little different that of BMW’s M Performance division. alpina’s cars are typified by “automatic gearboxes and a supple ride,” according to andreas Bovensiepen, son of alpina’s founder, contrasted with “high power and high torque at low revs.” alpina’s engine modifications add 40 horsepower for a total of 540. every alpina engine goes through 25,000 miles of testing during development before it is approved for production. the B7 engines along with a special cooling package are then delivered to the BMW plant for final assembly.

California’s famous Mazda laguna Seca raceway was host to a track day featuring the M-Series lineup and one alpina B7. In classic alpina Blue, it wore signature 21-inch wheels with a 20-spoke design. Compared to the smaller 3-, 5-, and 6-Series M cars, I was impressed with how well the hefty B7 was able to get around the challenging track. then it was time for a ride from Bovensiepen to see what it could do in the hands of its creator. an accomplished competitive driver in his own right, andy masterfully lapped the circuit while nonchalantly discussing the car. While we didn’t approach the B7’s drag-limited 194 mph top speed, the engine produces 538 lb. ft. of torque from 2800 rpm all the way 5000, giving you that punch right where you use it most, whether it’s powering out of a corner on a racetrack or just passing on the highway. “Peak torque on the M5 and M6 is at 6000 rpm,” he said. “this is more for an everyday driver. the M is more of a sports car.”

Indeed, as much as I love the M cars, the ride is quite firm and it’s hard to appreciate their peak power levels on public roads. an M treatment of the 7-Series doesn’t seem appropriate, especially when alpina hit such a sweet spot for the performance minded buyer. all B7’s will be sold on a special order basis, with 500 cars allotted to the US out of a projected run of 1500. Prices start at $127,600. -andy mikonis

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shorelines >> the good life <<

10 Places for $10

My travel life is not always filled with overflowing glasses of champagne and slabs of foie gras on toast points. I am also up for fantastic meals that cost a mere sip of the Krug Grande Cuvee at the swanky Mandarin Oriental in Paris. Let’s not forget the $900 “bargain” of a hotel tab and the matching tips for every hotel employee who calls me by name. • For this issue of The Good Life column, I have gathered my list of Top 10 Places to Eat (and drink) around the globe for under $10. From the most divine ginger Brussels sprouts in Miami to the most memorable place to have a glass of rum at six in the morning, these ten places are worthy of a side trip even from your most enchanting penthouse hotel suite. -george aQuino

Masuki Mami house (binondo, Manila)

this corner epicurean and sandwich shop in the historic district of Indy is a gem of find especially after your first bite of their tribute sandwich to Mario Batali’s family. the Batali is a baguette stuffed with capacolla, spicy coppa, soppresata, hot giardinara, tomato preserves, red onions and provolone— Mangiamo!

The Cheeseboard Pizza Collective (Berkeley, California) I would argue that the daily pizza selection at this hopping Berkeley restaurant across from Chez Panisse is the best slice of heaven in the U.S. a jazz band entertains while you wait in line (which normally stretches around the corner) for your pizza ration.

CAFe NA

(koh samui, thailand) My family stumbled upon this family-owned restaurant during our trip to bang rak fish market. needless to say, the food at cafe na is as authentic as you can get in koh samui. we ate at cafe na for five days straight (out of my seven days in koh samui). the cook [left] is dishing out cafe na’s seafood curry.

photography by george aquino

goose The Market (indianapolis)

Filipinos embrace this hole-in-a-wall noodle house in the oldest chinatown in the world as if it’s a national institution. thin egg noodles are served in these tantalizing bowls of chicken stock with an accompanying asado sauce (chinese-Filipino bbQ sauce).

Mosquee de Paris (Paris) Parisians flock to the Great Mosque all year round to partake in the best steaming mint tea and North african pastries in the city. there is also a hammam for those interested in a full body massage treatment prior to relaxing in the outdoor patio teeming with a diverse crowd of locals and tourists.

The borough Market (London)

tong pak fu (taiwan)

you don’t need to go far into the borough market to discover nirvana for the cost of a bottled water at one of london’s fancier addresses. the borough market offers the widest selection of options from spanish chorizos to the most amazing montgomery cheese sandwich in the world [pictured left].

shaved layers upon layers of ice made with fruit juice base & milk is the rave in asia and none is better than taiwan-based tong pak Fu, located next to the mini bus terminal in the fishing village of saikung in hong kong. options range from matcha green tea, black sesame to horlick’s flavored ice [pictured above].

Rice & Beans (Paris) the City of light isn’t exactly known for Mexican food but this funky joint just steps from les Halles serves up some tasty burritos and tacos in a retro, convivial atmosphere.

sakaya kitchen (Miami)

el Batey (Old San Juan, Puerto Rico)

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you will never find a more distinctive rum bar than el batey in old san Juan. Dark, walls splattered with graffiti, a tiny pool table and a host of local characters add spice to this bar across from the el convento hotel and a stone’s throw from the san Juan cathedral. i can only imagine Mickey rourke and hunter s. thompson partaking in a bottle of rum in the corner of the bar. the bar stays open until the cathedral bells starts ringing after sunrise.

march/april 2013

this food truck standout on the streets of Miami has found a permanent home in the downtown district to serve up its famous ginger Brussels sprouts [pictured above]. enjoy steam pork buns and KfC (Korean fried Chicken) in a communal setting that caters to corporate white collar types to asian tourists looking for delights that remind them of home.

shorelines >> interview <<

MaxiMilian riedel The Crown Prince of Glassware

H

e committed to a career in the company at age 18 and, after stints in Dubai and Paris, took the helm of riedel Crystal USa at the age of 27. His designs for glassware and decanters have been acquired by the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern art, among other prestigious museums.

Now 35, in recent years riedel has kept a busy annual schedule of close to 100 wine glassware “tasting seminars.”

I spoke to him in late November, a few minutes before he took the stage at City Winery in Chicago’s West loop to make his pitch to wine enthusiasts intrigued by his company’s global reputation.

in terms of glassware, is there a big difference between european and american wine culture? In terms of history, of course. In europe, with all the royal families in the past, people were exposed to this kind of fine wine and dining experience much earlier. But americans caught up in the last 200 years. the glass awareness and the wine awareness overall in america, being such a young dynamic culture, is much more advanced. Nowhere in the world are people as much aware of the right grape variety in the right glass.

So for us, the United States has become our single most important market in the last 10 years. It’s a very young market for us, compared to europe, where we’ve been selling our glasses since the very beginning. But the americans have caught up quickly. When I say “americans,” I also refer to our friends in Canada, and lately I’m also focusing on latin america. Colombia has developed a wonderful food culture, and we’re right there. and I always mention Chile and argentina. Chile and Peru— the greatest seafood in the world comes from there, and people really celebrate it. and Chile makes some of the finest wines.

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the great majority of people have a limited budget, and most settle for generic white and red glasses. what are the essentials from where you stand? first, we suggest that what you spend on a bottle of wine, on average, is what you should spend on one glass. Second, go with what you drink the most. If you’re a cabernet drinker, invest in cabernet glasses. If your spouse drinks pinot noir, than you have to have a pinot noir glass. those are the two glasses with which you should start your collection. then you can venture off. there is not a generic red and a generic white glass.

how has the company weathered the recession and the very slow u.s. recovery? We have the recession in europe right now, in most of the countries there. I think we’re through with it in america. Since we’re a global company, we can shift our focus from one market to the other. In the United States, maybe up until 2008 we had consistent double-digit growth. Since then it’s been more single-digit growth. We’re growing, simply because the wine consumption in this country is growing. Now there’s a focus on beer and microbreweries, so we’re focusing on that with our second brand, Spiegelau.

But we’re part of the wine industry. When wine is booming, we go along—because without wine, our glasses would simply be dust catchers. would you be disappointed if your son or daughter doesn’t go into the family business? I would be disappointed not in them but in myself, because I had not been able to convince them this is the most fun industry to be active in because you surround yourself with what you love—which is wine and food. So if my children, one day, do not have a palette for wine and food, but they instead become mad scientists, I am fine with that.

But of course my goal is to have a continuation in the family tradition. It is my job to make it attractive for the next generation. If I’m not able to do that, then I’m the last, and this would be a devastating situation for me as a person and a family member. I love kids, although I don’t have any yet, and I love what I do. I hope I can convey my message and my passion. -Jeremy gantz

photo [this page] courtesy of MaxiMiLian riedeL

Maximilian riedel never had to think much about a career: for legions of oenophiles, his last name is synonymous with appreciating the world’s finest wines. Carrying on the family business 11 generations after it was founded, especially as the only son of the company’s current present, might feel a bit burdensome to some. but Maximilian plays the role of riedel’s crown prince and american ambassador with ease (and well-tailored suits).

>> green notes <<

synagogue reuse project hits a home run Historic south Bend place of worship finds new life as silver Hawks team store

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avid Piser had a problem. the B’Nai Yisrael reconstructionist Synagogue he and his family attended for nearly a century in downtown South Bend did not have enough members left to survive. the synagogue, built in 1901, was the first place of worship for the Jewish community in South Bend.

Piser and his uncle, the only two members left, closed the building in 1991.

“We closed it all down, moth-balled it and went through the machinations of trying to find a buyer,” Piser says. “When we started to run out of the synagogue’s money, that’s when we got in touch with

todd Zeiger’s organization.”

Zeiger is the director of the Northern regional office of Indiana landmarks in South Bend. “they decided to de-consecrate the building and they didn’t want it to be demolished,” Zeiger says. “they wanted a new use that would be respectful and honor the history of the building.”

Indiana landmarks tried to buy time for the building, located on Williams Street just outside left field fence at the South Bend Silver Hawks’ Covaleski Stadium, to keep it from being destroyed. the group removed vines overtaking the facade and patched the roof to keep the rain and snow out.

In time, the City of South Bend bought the building, but officials were still unclear

as to what to do with it. twenty years after the synagogue closed, andrew Berlin, chairman and Ceo of Chicago-based Berlin Packaging, bought the Silver Hawks from former Indiana Gov. Joe Kernan in November 2011.

Berlin, an investor in the Chicago White Sox, had a vision for turning the synagogue into a team store.

“He called a meeting of Jewish south bend silver hawks leaders for a president Joe hart breakfast at the Cove and he asked some questions and learned the history of the synagogue,” Piser says. “He said he could build new for less. We said, ‘Yes, but you’ll lose a part of important history. Poles, Slavs, Jews, romanians all lived in that area.”

“It didn’t take him long to say, ‘Yes, we’re going to rehab it and turn it into a store,’” Piser said.

Piser says Berlin consulted with the Jewish community every step of the way to ensure the process met with their approval.

“He suggested a bulls eye on the roof,” Piser says. “If a hitter hit the bulls eye, someone in the stands would win a prize.

We said we didn’t really think that would be appropriate and he agreed.”

Joe Hart, president of the Silver Hawks, says the challenge in the restoration and reuse project was to preserve the building’s historic elements in an environmentally sound way that at the same time would boost merchandise sales. “once you get into a building that is 110 years old, you find all sorts of things,” Hart says. the building has the original tin roof ceiling, original stained-glass windows and a mural of Noah’s arc where the synagogue’s holy arc containing the torah scrolls once stood. the mural sits behind the cash registers and has the words “rain Delay” painted above it.

Berlin invested $1 million in renovating the synagogue, $40,000 of which went toward restoring the historic chandelier in

photography by Tony V. MarTin

shorelines

$65 per night

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the center of the building. the building has a balcony which was used for women’s seating and had a separate, external staircase and entrance for the women.

When the team removed the old staircase and door, they filled in the hole in the wall with bricks taken from the old chimney. the synagogue-turned-team store opened on May 25, 2012. a few weeks later, the team hosted the Jewish federation and former members of B’Nai Yisrael for a relighting of the historic chandelier.

“We had 150 people in this room when we kicked on the light for the first time,” Hart says. “You would hear the older people in the room reminiscing about the time they spent here as members of the synagogue and talking about how much they liked what we did with the building and it was really great.

“It let us know we did it the right way.”

Don Inks, director of economic resources for the City of South Bend, says the project was significant on many levels.

“It involved both environmental good practice and cultural preservation,” Inks says. “We’ve all lost a lot of historic buildings in our downtowns and we’ve worked hard to preserve them here in South Bend.”

Zeiger says the building has been nominated for the National register of Historic Places. the synagogue’s reuse, he said, does not change its eligibility for the national register.

“Because the reuse was done in such a respectful way, it didn’t impact the historic integrity of the building,” Zeiger says.

Zeiger says a preservation covenant has been placed on the building protecting it from demolition as well.

“When we got the building, if you’d told me a Jewish owner would come in and buy the Silver Hawks and repurpose it for a team store while maintaining its cultural and historic integrity, I would have never believed it,” Zeiger says.

“We’re so fortunate to have an owner who understands and embraces the importance of that space.” -lauri harvey keagle

shorelines >> a fine mess <<

Mike royko says i’M a genius

T

he Pulitzer Prize winner was Mike royko. the humor writer was me. a friend of mine, the late Chicago sportscaster tim Weigel, invited my wife and I to a party, and one of the other guests was tim’s best friend, Mike royko.

I grew up reading royko, and considered him one of america’s greatest living writers, but even though his columns often had a humorous tone, he was not exactly known as a warm and fuzzy guy. I was scared to death of him. Whenever I got into a conversation anywhere near him, I just prayed I didn’t say anything stupid. I respected his talent so much it would have killed me if he thought I was an idiot. therefore, whenever royko was around, I was mute. I just stood near him throughout the night and listened to his stories. I was pretty sure he had no idea who I was, and I liked it that way. towards the end of the night I was talking to tim about a bit we had done on the radio show I was producing (the John landecker Show, which co-starred tim’s wife, Vicki truax). We had recorded a wacky parody song about John Wayne Bobbitt, the most famous man in

america at that time. tim really thought the song was funny, and asked me if I wrote it.

While I was in the middle of openly admitting that I had indeed written a wacky parody song about a guy who had his penis cut off by his wife, I didn’t see america’s most respected newspaper columnist walk up next to me. When I saw him, my heart sank. He was clearly listening in on the conversation.

“You wrote that Bobbitt song?” royko asked me.

I gulped and braced myself for the slap-down king’s inevitable slap-down.

“Yes he did,” tim answered for me.

“Did you hear it?” royko nodded. “Yeah, my wife had it on in the car,” he said.

I could hear the disdain in his voice. I knew he wasn’t a regular listener of the show. tim then asked him the one question I never would have asked in a million years: “What did you think of it?” royko looked at me, and just for a second, a crooked little grin formed at the corner of his mouth.

“I thought it was genius,” he said.

You read that correctly. the word “genius” was used in a sentence by a Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist to describe something written by a very unserious neverwon-a-prize-in-his-life humor writer. I have witnesses. on the other hand, as my wife always points out when I tell this story, “He was hitting the gin pretty hard that night.” as if that matters. -rick kaempFer

ge nius

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photo by fred JeWeLL, aP PhoTo

let’s face it, humor writers are never taken seriously. the word “serious” is essentially the opposite of the word “humor”. But there are incredibly rare exceptions to that rule. i witnessed one with my own eyes about twenty years ago. a humor writer was taken seriously by a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, at least for a few seconds.

Your HTI design team: Kerry, Stephanie, MaryKay and “Jack”

Your home should reflect your personality.

With a visit to Harbortown Interiors, you’ll find so many fun, one-of-a-kind fabrics, furniture, lighting and accessories that will liven up your surroundings and let YOU shine through!

Come in and take a peek – and put some heart in your home!

Come in for the fun of it!

613 Broad St., St. JoSeph, Michigan • 269-983-7774 Open seven days a week and Thursdays evenings.

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CoLuMbian baLL, ChiCago oPen doors gaLa, ChiCago ronaLd MCdonaLd house fundraiser, souTh bend doubLe M gaLa, ChiCago sTar PLaza neW year’s ParTy, MerriLLViLLe Mardi gras CoronaTion, MerriLLViLLe Chef of The year, CroWn PoinT MusiCaL PreVieW, VaLParaiso fisChoff MusiC benefiT, souTh bend

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white city of 1893 columbian ball chicago

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photography by r.carl and j.b. spector

The Museum of Science and Industry held its 32nd annual Columbian Ball, where nearly 900 guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dancing. The Honorable Rahm Emanuel was an honorary co-chair and the celebrity auctioneer was Bill Kurtis.

Almost $2.2 million was raised to support the Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE) program and the Museum’s vision.

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1 Neal Zuker and MK Pritzker 2 Francee Harrington and Kathy Brock 3 Christina and Ron Gidwtiz 4 Betsy Henshaw, Lila Hunt and Joan Sabatino

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5 Robert and Valerie Corr Hanserd

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6 Michael McMurray and Sonia Waiters 7 Janine Rosloniec and Brian Hunter 8 Mary Anne and Barry MacLean 9 Auctioneer, Bill Kurtis

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10 Jeffrey and Lisa Aronin

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all clicks compiled by laveta hughes

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education support open doors gala | chicago

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photography by steve becker

1 Michael Kutza, Candace and Chuck Jordan, and Vivian Teng 2 Lottie and Terry Mazany 3 Frantz and McGhee Osee with Eric Winston

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4 Dr. Warren King and Bonita Chapman 5 Susan and Richard Kiphart 6 Dr. Warrick L. Carter and John Bryan

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A capacity crowd of 300 guests at the Columbia College Chicago Open Doors Gala helped set a record $800,000 raised to support Chicago Public Schools graduates with scholarships. The annual Gala, held at the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Media Production Center, was a showcase of art, fashion and entertainment by Columbia College students.

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men in kilts

ronald mcdonald house fundraiser south bend

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photography by gregg rizzo

1 Frank Waugh with Dan White, both of South Bend 2 Ronald McDonald with Ann Finn of South Bend

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3 Jim Harris of South Bend with Larry True of Ft. Wayne

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4 Jackie Miller of Granger, Valerie Tanke of Niles and Shelley Lesniewicz of South Bend 5 Dave and Kathleen Sparks of Mishawaka 6 James and Kim Leep of Granger

Supporters of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn to celebrate 10 years of the Ronald McDonald Family Room serving families with critically ill children. The event featured cocktails, dinner, a live auction, entertainment, and men donning kilts.

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rockin’ eve

double m gala | chicago

star plaza new year’s party | merrillville

photography by michael monar

photography by yvette dostatni

The Inaugural Double M Gala was held at the Zhou B Art Center to benefit The Chicago International Music & Movies Festival. House music fans, filmmakers, musicians, and other artists joined Chicago’s vibrant creative community for an evening of cocktails and conversation, over finely-crafted, tasty beats.

1 Layne Jackson and Alderman Proco Joe Moreno

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Star Plaza New Year’s Eve Bash rocked into 2013 with a variety of dance parties, comedy shows, and live bands. Special guests included DJ Gordo, Julian from the B96 Morning Show, Dick Diamond and the Dusters, New Element, The Crawpuppies, and other great local entertainment.

1 Jamie and Milt Janosz of Schererville 2 John and Trina Bobrowski of Valparaiso

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2 Fabrice Rozie and Laurence Geannopulos

3 Brian Cross and Trina Nagel, both of Shelby

3 Scott Gelman and Cheryl Esken

4 David and Rene Gearman of Highland and Erin and Brandon French of Hobart

4 John Daley, Hillel Frankel and Mark Vanecko

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5 Michael Zhou, Li Zeng and Mao Mei

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5 Adam Wornhoff and Allie Larocca, both of Cedar Lake 6 Ashely Meulemans and Josh Couwenhoben both of Valparaiso

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behold, the royals

mardi gras coronation merrillville photography by tony v. martin

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The Methodist Hospital Foundations coronated the King and Queen for 2013 Mardi Gras Court at Innsbrook Country Club. Guests enjoyed appetizers and drinks while listening to the delightful sounds of a harpist.

1 Peter Melcher and Fran Taylor, both of Valparaiso 2 Kelly Bello of LaPorte and Marrell Tyler of Merrillville 3 Pam Nicolosi of Portage, Marcia Stirpe of Hammond and Darlene Brown of Merrillville 4 Gary Miller and Tom Largus

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5 Alexandra Bradley of Gary, Blake Evans of Merrillville and Othella Bradley of Gary 6 Nimarra Trimble and Derrick Loyd of Valparaiso 7 Teri McCormack of Portage and Rob Hanrahan

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culinary delights

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chef of the year crown point

photography by jillian pancini

The American Culinary Federation Chefs of Northwest Indiana held their annual Chef of the Year event at the Youche Country Club. Chef Tim Merkel hosted the evening, which included appetizers, dinner, and a meeting.

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1 Heidi Crist of Griffith and Elida Abeyta of East Chicago 2 Chef Hugo and Maria Perea of Lansing 3 Chef Cheryl Molenda of Dyer and Don Zajac of Herscher

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4 Kerry and Carrie McGuire of Highland with Nancy and Joe Trama of St. John 5 Sean Sexton of Griffith and Morgan Crist of Highland 6 Chef Jim Galligan of Valparaiso, Jack Mix of Dyer, Nicolas Luna, and Harry Karahalios of Crown Point 7 Prakuthi Makam of Chicago and Philip Crist of Chicago 8 Sue Reitan of Crown Point, Mandy Merkel of Crown Point and Terri Williams of Crown Point

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rhapsody in swing!

midnight in paris

photography by yvette dostatni

photography by gregg rizzo

musical preview | valparaiso

1 Lankan Stuart and Derrick Mamon, both of Gary

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The Fischoff National Chamber Music Association hosted its annual black tie fundraising gala at the Palais Royale Ballroom.

As a cabaret jazz saxophone quartet filled the air with music, more than 100 guests traveled back to 1920’s Paris and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, a French bistro dinner and a silent auction.

1 Aaron Devine with Kendra Mosher, both of South Bend

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2 Tim and Trish Maher of South Bend

2 Joe Skaro of Lansing and Kate Lynn Edwards of Hammond

3 Mimi and Kevin Leahy of Granger

3 Suzanne Zimmerman and Melvin McColley of Valparaiso 4 Jeff De Boer of Cedar Lake, Michael Greenlief and Kyleen Linsemeyer of Chicago, with Michael Ohm and Bryce Shaffer of Valparaiso

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4 John Sejdinaj with Frances Shavers, both of South Bend with George Horn of Niles 5 Alfred Guillame and Melanie Smith-Guillame of Grange

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5 Anna Marie Abbate of Parkridge with Tyler and Denice Scott of Valparaiso

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6 BJ Thompson of Mishawaka with Carri Frye of Osceola

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Memorial Opera House drew a full house for a preview of the original American musical, Rhapsody in Swing!, created by local community theater collaborators—South Shore Orchestra, Carnegie Arts Center and South Shore Dance Alliance. Over $3,000 was donated to support the musical production.

fischoff music benefit | south bend

essential events

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apr 7 John landecker book signing

Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill and Tavern 12 noon to 3pm 131 E Dunes Hwy, Beverly Shores, Ind. Radio personality and public figure John Landecker will be holding a book signing at Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill and Tavern.

Purchase the book, meet Landecker and enjoy exclusive food and drink specials from Bartlett’s inventive but comforting menu.

calenDar coMpileD by laveta hughes

happenings Indiana

Through Mar 22 postcards from my sixty-two and a half year vacation, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Dr, Hammond.

219.989.7770. soutshorecva.com. this exhibit features Mitch Markovitz’s early artwork, original paintings and original poster paintings from the South Shore line Poster series. Markovitz is best known for his contributions to the South Shore line poster series Just around the Corner.

Feb 22-24 home show expo, 10am-8pm, Marquette Mall, Hwy 20 & 421, Michigan City.

219.326.0624. balc.org. Presented by the Builders association of laPorte, this show presents exhibitors representing all facets of home and garden products and services. Builders will be on hand to discuss construction and remodeling projects.

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Mar 2 where best Friends meet dinner and silent auction, Halls of St. George, 905 E Joliet St, Schererville. 219.922.3811. hscalumet.org. once again, the Humane Society Calumet area (HSCa) will host this fun-filled evening, which includes cocktails, dinner, dancing and a silent auction. last year’s event featured a sold out crowd of 650 attendees. Proceeds from this event benefit the HSCa’s mission to lead the community in the humane treatment of animals by raising awareness and funds for the organization.

Mar 2-3 mha antiques show, call for times, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 219.464.0133. porterco.org. this annual exhibition brings antiques and treasures to Porter County.

Mar 3 maple sugar Festival, noon-3pm, International Friendship Gardens, 2055 US Hwy 12,

Michigan City. 219.878.9885. friendshipgardens. org. this free event features a sugar-making camp, demonstrations, nature hikes and plenty of sweet treats. Pets on a leash are welcome.

Mar 9 michiana humane society’s spring Fling, 5-8pm, Waters Edge Restaurant, 12 on the Lake, Michigan City. 219.872.4499. michianahuamanesociety.com. Members of the community and animal lovers join together at this annual event to support the Michiana Humane Society and enjoy drinks, food and a live auction of unique chairs designed by local artists. Proceeds benefit homeless animals in the community.

Mar 9-10, 16-17 maple syrup time, 10am4pm, Deep River County Park, 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart. 219.769.PARK. lakecountyparks. com. Visitors to this yearly event will learn how trees are tapped, sap is collected, sap is turned into syrup, corn is stone-ground into cornmeal and more. additional activities include games and puzzles for kids, quilting, and checkers. Visitors can warm up with hot maple tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and enjoy additional treats in the visitor’s center. Maple syrup and cornmeal will be available for sale.

Mar 16 micro beer brew night, 7-11pm, Centennial Park Banquet Facilities, 1005 S Centennial Dr, Munster. 219.836.6937. munster.org. attendees to this annual event can enjoy season microbrews, along with seven tasting tickets and an appetizer buffet with items paired with beers.

Mar 16 spring Jam vendor and craft shopping experience, 9am-3pm, Marquette Park Pavilion, 1 N Grand Boulevard, Gary. 219.455.9725. com. this first annual event showcases upscale local and regional vendors, crafters and businesses. the day promises to be full of fun and excitement with music, entertainment, raffles, door prizes, a kids’ corner and more.

Mar 20 22nd annual spring luncheon, Halls of St. George, 905 E Joliet St, Schererville.

219.778.2585. sharefoundation.org. Celebrate the coming season at this luncheon, which benefits the Share foundation. lunch will be accompanied by a baked goods sale, silent auction, table prizes and musical entertainment for the more than 800 guests in attendance. apr 13 the times ultimate garage sale, 7am-4pm, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 219.464.0133. porterco. org. open to the public, this large annual garage-type sale features collectibles and deals. last year’s event drew thousands and featured 208 booths. apr 15-20 28th annual vu Jazz Fest, call for times, Valparaiso University Harre Union Ballroom, 1509 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso. 219.464.5415. valpo. edu. the Midwest’s largest non-competitive jazz event spans six days and features a variety of jazz performers, including David Sanborn and Joey Defrancesco, who will perform on Saturday evening. apr 25 midwest smoke out, 5-10pm, The Venue at Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond. midwestsmokeout.com. the foremost event for cigar aficionados and luxury enthusiasts features dozens of big brands of premium cigars, spirits and luxury items. this event also allows participants to mingle with cigar visionaries. apr 27 taste of april in paris, 11am-3pm, Old World Market, 76 Washington St, Valparaiso.

219.476.0700. oldworldmarketonline.com. a free wine tasting and more than 200 cheeses in stock will help participants learn how to pair different wines and cheeses. Guests can also enjoy live music, pastries and chocolates.

compiled by ashley boyer

shore fiLe PhoTo

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.

ongoing touring grand rapids, 7-9pm, downtown Grand Rapids.

615.510.3599. squarepegevents.com.

Presented by Grand rapids Downtown alliance and Square Peg events, this new series of downtown walking tours features food and beverage sampling, culture and fun. the tours offer an opportunity for residents and out-oftowners to explore all that downtown Grand rapids has to offer and enjoy a bit of education, all in a fun group setting.

Mar 12: Giggle Groove tour; Mar 26: Mini Martini March; apr 16: Down Under Gems tour; apr 30: W(h)ine Not tour.

Through May 4 indoor Farm market in south haven, 11am-3pm Sat, Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle St, South Haven.

269.543.4658. southhaven.org. Produce and baked goods will be available for sale at this indoor farm market.

Feb 13-apr 10 ars gallery classes, various schedules, 147 Fifth St, Benton Harbor. 269.208.4409. New adultfocused and junior art and learning classes have been added to arS Gallery’s class offerings for 2013. adult class options include Painting with oils, a taste of Painting, Photography, lunchtime Spanish and Wine education. Junior class offerings include Saturday art Studio and film Class with Josh. for more information visit annarussoart.com or call.

Mar 8-10 southwest michigan golf show, 2-7pm Fri, 10am-6pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun, Kalamazaoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St, Kalamazoo. michigangolfshow.com. the Kalamazoo County expo center welcomes more than 100 exhibitors each year to this event. attendees can learn about all things golf, prepare for the upcoming season with a variety of hands-on activities, enjoy contests and more.

Mar 27-29 cottage & lakefront living show, 3-9pm Fri, 10am-9pm Sat, 11am-5pm Sun, DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids.

616.742.6500. showspan.com. every year, cottage enthusiasts flock to this popular show. last year’s show featured a marketplace with unique items from Michigan and beyond, a fine art show, a wooden boat-building demonstration, an indoor beach and more.

Mar 30-May 25 horse drawn trolley, Elm & State, downtown St. Joseph. trolley riders can enjoy the clip-clop of hooves hitting the brick road mingled with the jangling of harnesses as a large Percheron pulls the trolley along the streets. trolley rides offered weather permitting.

apr 26-28 art attack, Harbor Country. 219.469.5332. 269.469.5409. harborcountry.org. Spanning the eight towns of Harbor Country, this art-filled weekend includes a full palette of colorful activities—gallery receptions, artist’s demonstrations, exhibitions,

apr 27-28 carousel organ rally, 10am-6pm, Nelis Dutch Village, 12350 James St., Holland. 616.396.1475. the Carousel organ association of america (Coaa) is hosting this event, featuring unique portable organs from the United States, Canada, england, Germany, and Holland. attendees will be entertained by music from small monkey organs to large traveling band organs.

Illinois

Through apr 27 green city market, 8:30am-1pm Sat, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 Cannon Dr, Chicago. 773.880.1266. greencitymarket. org. this indoor market showcases local, sustainable food—meat, cheese, milk, vegetables, bread, fruit, herbs, potted plants, flowers and more. the market also features weekly programs, chef demonstrations, children’s activities and more.

Feb 23-24 2013 ikc dog show, 8am5pm, McCormick Place, 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago. ikcdogshow. com. More than 100,000 visitors will get the chance to see approximately 8,000 purebred dogs from 150 breeds demonstrate their ability in a variety of competitions.

Feb 24 wingFest, 1-5pm, Bailey Auditorium, 1340 W Washington Blvd, Chicago. 312.664.6656 ext. 124. wingfest.net. the city’s best wingslinging restaurants compete to claim the title of Best Wings in Chicago in four categories—mild, hot, BBQ and exotic— during this annual event. the event also features live music from Cadillac Drive and the Chicago redhots, a raffle and giveaways. Since its inception, Wingfest has raised $135,000 for various local charities and Chicago Neighbors United is this year’s beneficiary.

Mar 16 chicago’s 2013 st. patrick’s day parade, noon, Columbus Dr, Downtown Chicago. chicagostpatsparade. com. Chicago’s annual holiday parade is fun for all ages. the parade’s viewing stand will be located in front of Buckingham fountain. the parade also can be viewed on WlS/aBC 7. apr 5 red or white ball 2013, 7pm VIP reception, 8pm main event, Venue One, 1044 W Randolph St, Chicago.

312.335.1650. steppenwolf.org.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this annual ball begins with a VIP hour and continues with tasting stations from some of Chicago’s hottest chefs, multiple open bars, a DJ and a silent auction and raffle. the ball serves as a fundraiser for the Steppenwolf auxiliary Council, a group of young professionals who raise funds for Steppenwolf for Young adults. apr 12 uniceF’s message of hope gala, 6:30-11:30pm, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago’s Grand Ballroom, 120 E Delaware Pl, Chicago. 312.222.9121. unicefusa.org. Hosted by the Midwest regional office of the U.S. fund for UNICef this annual gala features entertainment, exciting live and silent auctions, a raffle and the Message of Hope after Party.

exhibitions Indiana

Mar 2 gglassquerade, 6 pm, The Four Seasons, 120 E Delaware Pl, Chicago.

773.477.9257. lookingglasstheatre. org. Celebrating 25 years of ensemble collaboration, transformation and invention, lookingglass theater’s annual gglassquerade will be hosted by Stephen Colbert of Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report. Colbert will be presented with the lookingglass Civic engagement award during the event.

Through Mar 17 dreams wiser than waking: recent acquisitions of native american prints, The Snite Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame. 574.631.5466. sniteartmuseum.nd.edu. following the conclusion of the fall exhibition father lindesmith’s Collection: History into Art and Anthropology featuring nineteenth-century examples of art and craft, this presentation of contemporary Native american prints illustrates the nexus of traditional themes and modern society. Whether abstract or figural, the works on display reveal a depth of spirit and technical prowess that command our attention. also, through Mar 10: Touching Ground—Finding the American South, 20x24 Polaroids and Lines Etched with the Weight of Life—Georges Rouault’s Miserere; Mar 17: In Dialogue— Marcos Raya, Opportunistic Diagnosis; Mar 31-Jun 23: Art History Seminar—An Exhibition of Old Master Prints and Drawings; apr 17-May 19: 2013 Thesis Exhibition by BFA and MFA Candidates.

Mar 9 sounds of silence gala, 6-11pm, Crystal Ballroom, Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E Wacker Dr, Chicago.

773.489.9081. cawc.org. this 27th annual Spring Gala will raise funds for Connections for abused Women and their Children (CaWC), a Chicago organization committed to ending domestic violence. this black-tie-optional event will include cocktails, a silent auction and mystery wine raffle, a seated dinner, live auction and dancing.

Through apr 28 studebaker at the brickyard, Studebaker National Museum, 201 S Chapin St, South Bend.

574.235.9714. studebakermuseum.org. the three original Studebaker team cares are reunited at this exhibit, which focuses on Studebaker’s factory-backed teams in 1932 and 1933. the exhibit also explores Studebaker’s Pace Car history, with special focus on the 1952 race when Studebaker celebrated its centennial. also, through Jun 2: A Trip through the Studebaker Factory.

Mar 9-17 chicago Flower & garden show, 10am-8pm Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm Sun, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago chicagoflower.com. this annual show features more than 100 gardening, landscape and horticulture vendors; seminars and workshops offered by top horticulture experts; culinary demonstrations from 34 top Chicago chefs, a kid’s activity garden and more.

In line with this year’s theme “the art of Gardening,” the 20-plus gardens at this year’s show draw inspiration from the art world.

Mar 2-May 12 drawing to conclusion, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City.

219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. this exhibit showcases the varied content, style and scale of eight contemporary Midwestern artists—rick lange, Christina Mrozik, Jennifer Nelson, olivia Petrides, Monica rezman, lynn retson, Matt Woodward and Monica Wulfurs. also, through feb 24: Ice Abstracts— photography by Greg Gallagher, Iconoclastic! and The Common Good; Mar 2-May 12: Line of Thought.

Michigan

Through apr 7 stoked—Five artists of Fire and clay, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo.

269.349.7775. kiarts.org. a nationally touring exhibition, Stoked reviews recent work by richard Bresnahan, artist in residence at Saint John’s University, and four former apprentices. also, through May 19: Sight and Feeling—Photographs

by Ansel Adams; through Jun 9: The Arts of China and Japan—Selections from the Collection; Mar 2-May 26: Reflections— African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection; apr 20-May 8: Young Artists of Kalamazoo County.

Feb 28-apr 14 great lakes chapter of the guild of scientific illustrators exhibition, Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles. 269.695.6491. fernwoodbotanical.org. Guild members from Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin display their watercolor and ink works in this juried exhibit of illustrated florals and botanicals. also, through feb 24: Brandywine-Niles School art exhibit; apr 19-June 2: Bryan Whitney—Radio Flora.

Mar 1-apr 30 butterflies are blooming, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, NE, Grand Rapids. 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. a living exhibit, Butterflies are Blooming features 40 different species of butterflies and moths from tropical regions around the world flying freely in the five-story tropical conservatory. also, through: Connected and Disconnected—The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont; through oct: Bernar Venet at Meijer Gardens.

Mar 22-Jun 2 the Floating world— ukiyo-e prints from the lauren rogers museum of art, Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.0271. krasl.org. this exhibition showcases 50 ukiyo-e prints from Japan’s edo Period.

Ukiyo-e means “images of the floating world” and refers to the theater and entertainment districts in Japanese cities. also, through Mar 17: Krasl art Center Members’ Show + artlab.

Illinois

Through May 12 picasso and chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago.

312.629.6635. artic.edu/aic. the first major Picasso exhibition organized by the art Institute in almost 30 years presents more than 250 of Picasso’s paintings, sculpture, prints and drawings. also, through feb 24: Building—Inside Studio Gang Architects; through apr 7: Material Translations—Japanese Fashion from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago; through May 12: Irving Penn—Underfoot and When Collecting Was New— Photographs from the Robert A. Taub Collection; through aug 25: Late Roman and Early Byzantine Treasures from the British Museum; through apr 28: Project Projects—Test Fit and Recent Acquisitions of Textiles, 2004-2011; through May 5: Danh Vo—We the People (detail), 20102013; through Jun 18: Cy Twombly— Sculpture Selections, 1948-1995; through Jun 23: Spot the Dog—Paw Prints!; through June 2: The Artist and the Poet; feb 21-aug 11: Kara Walker—Rise Up Ye Mighty Race!; Mar 3-Jun 2: They Seek a City—Chicago and the Art of Migration, 1910-1950.

Through Jun 2 destroy the picture— painting the void, 1949-1962, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave,

march/april 2013

apr 26 a golden gala—an evening with luis and tuesday, 6:30-9:30pm, Laketown Golf and Conference Center, 6069 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. wishbonepetrescue.com. Benefitting operation Injured Soldiers and Wishbone Pet rescue alliance, this gala features hors d’oeurves, beer and wine, a silent auction and a book signing by luis Carlos Motalván, former U.S. army Captain and New York times bestselling author of Until Tuesday—A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Who Saved Him, and Motalván’s beloved service dog, Tuesday.

theatre, music, wine tasting, open houses and more—at variety of establishments throughout the area.

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Michigan

essential events Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago.org.

Created post-World War II, the works in this exhibit respond to the physical and psychological destruction wrought by the war as artists ripped, cut, burned and affixed objects to the canvas in lieu of paint. the exhibit features approximately 100 works by artists from eight countries. also, through Mar 3: John Cage; through Mar 5: Paul Cowan; through apr 7: Goshka Macuga—Exhibit, A; through apr 28: Color Bind—The MCA Collection in Black and White; through May: MCa Chicago Plaza Project—Martin Creed; through May 5: William Kentridge; through May 12: Akram Zaatari; Mar 19-Jun 18: Jason Lazarus; apr 27-aug 11: Amalia Pica.

has been exhibiting critically acclaimed, as well as entertaining “motion picture art” in its state-of-the-art facilities since its inception in 1972. Presenting more than 100 films each month, the center showcases cutting-edge, independent features and classic revivals, as well as premieres of new american and foreign films. from hosting the “annual festival of films from Iran” to The Grapes of Wrath, the diverse offerings have quality in common. a focus on education is supported by guest lecturers, discussions and courses, and film-related exhibits can be viewed at the on-site gallery/café.

Mar 7-sept 8 creatures of light— nature’s bioluminescence, The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago.

312.922.9410. fieldmuseum.org. from glowworms to deep-sea fishes, this exhibit features the mysterious and magical world of bioluminescence.

Visitors can discover the thousands of living organisms that blink, glow, flash and flicker. also, through Jun 9: Images of Afterlife; through Jun 16: Fashion and The Field Museum Collection—Maria Pinto; Mar 20-Sept 8: Scenes from the Stone Age—The Cave Paintings of Lascaux.

Indiana

opens Mar 14 animal inside out, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St and Lake Shore Dr, Chicago.

773.947.3133. msichicago.org. this exhibit explores the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creatures—from goats and giraffes to octopuses and ostriches. from creator of the trailblazing BoDY WorlDS exhibitions, anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens, this exhibit showcases more than 100 animal specimens that have been preserved through the process of plastination, which replaces the body’s fluids with plastics to incredibly detailed effect.

film Indiana

portage 16 imaX, 6550 US Hwy 6, Portage. 219.764.7569. portage16imax. com. the brand-new Portage 16 IMaX showcases blockbusters as well as electrifying 3D films that are uniquely suited to the IMaX format. With projected images up to eight stories high and a spectacular, wraparound digital surround-sound system, this theater offers a total-immersion moviegoing experience.

Michigan

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the vickers theatre, 6 N Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.3522. vickerstheatre.com.

Home of the annual “Sound of Silents film festival,” this painstakingly restored turn-of-the-century art house screens a variety of notable independent films. a lofty, two-story gallery space, showcasing the works of Midwestern artists, is open to the public before and between shows. further enhancing its art-house cachet, the Vickers hosts live music, performance art and poetry readings on its stage.

Illinois

the gene siskel Film center, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 164 N State St, Chicago. 312.846.2600. siskelfilmcenter.org. this film centerrenamed in 2000 for its most passionate supporter, the late film critic Gene Siskel-

performance 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. Mar 1-9: The Less Than Human Club; apr 12-27: The Graduate. debartolo performing arts center, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Campus. 574.631.2800. performingarts.nd.edu. the state-ofthe-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. feb 21-Mar 3: Shadows of the Reef; feb 23: L.A. Theatre Works presents Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; feb 27: Isabel leonard; Mar 2: Nicole Simental Sacred organ Music recital; Mar 5-6: alvin ailey american Dance theater; Mar 10: Chamber III—Slavic Heritage; Mar 22: altan; Mar 23: Mitchell Garcia Sacred Music organ recital and Katherine Burchfield Sacred Music organ recital; apr 6: Stradivari Quartet; apr 7: Kristian olesen; apr 14: tricia Park and Conor Hanick and anna Cooper Sacred Music Voice recital; apr 17-21: Intimate Apparel; apr 20: Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul; apr 26: James Crawford Wiley Sacred Music recital; apr 27: aaron Kortze Sacred Music Student organ recital.

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. apr 5-7, 11-14: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. 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. Mar 8: Gabriel Iglesias; Mar 16: YeS; Mar 23: Bobby Womack. laporte county symphony orchestra, performances in LaPorte and Michigan City, 614 Lincolnway, LaPorte.

219.362.9020. lcso.net. this exciting

orchestra offers a variety of concerts throughout the season, including classical, pops, chamber, children’s and family. Mar 17: The Soloist Among Us (elston Performing arts Center, 317 Detroit St, Michigan City); apr 20: Trumpet Invasion (laPorte Civic auditorium, 1001 ridge St, laPorte). the memorial opera house, 104 E Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. mohlive.com. this renovated, 364-seat building—with red, white and blue stained-glass windows—was built as a living memorial to the Civil War veterans of Porter County. Built in 1893, the theater has a rich history as a venue for musical and dramatic performances. feb 22-23, Mar 2-3: Guys and Dolls; apr 19-21: Gypsy. the morris performing arts center, 211 N Michigan St, South Bend. 574.235.9190, 800.537.6415. morriscenter.org. the home of the Broadway theatre league, the South Bend Symphony orchestra and the Southold Dance theater, the 2,560seat Morris Performing arts Center has enraptured audiences in the heart of downtown South Bend for more than 75 years. feb 22-23: Rock of Ages; Mar 19-20: Sesame Street Live!—Elmo Makes Music; Mar 23: South Bend Symphony orchestra KeyBank Pops; apr 6: South Bend Symphony orchestra’s British Heritage; apr 9: Celtic Woman— Believe; apr 27: South Bend Symphony orchestra’s German Heritage; apr 28: Brian regan—live in Concert. 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 pre-concert discussions with the conductor an hour before the concert.

Mar 8: Fantastique (the auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point); apr 12: Mahler 2 (the auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point). 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. Mar 3: George thorogood and the Destroyers; Mar 22: Chi-town Blues festival; apr 18: Indiana Ballet theatre’s Cinderella. 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, 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. through Mar 24: The Fox on the Fairway; apr 25-Jun 2: What a Glorious Feeling. 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. feb 22-Mar 10: Tomorrow Morning.

Michigan

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. feb 22-23: An American in Paris; feb 28: Handel, Bach and Respighi; Mar 1: Concerti Grossi and Handel, Bach and Respighi; Mar 2-3: Cathedral Choral Concert; Mar 8-10: Celtic fiddle with eileen Ivers; Mar 19: The Matrix Live; Mar 22-23: Vivaldi’s four Seasons; feb 23: Ferdinand the Bull; apr 12-13: Boléro; apr 14: The Listener; apr 19-21: Cirque Mechanics; apr 26-27: Bach’s St. John Passion. kalamazoo symphony orchestra, various venues. 269.349.7759. kalamazoosymphony.com. founded in 1921, this outstanding ensemble entertains the Kalamazoo area with a classical subscription series, annual holiday presentations, chamber orchestra concerts, free summer park concerts and various educational programs. Mar 9: Cirque Musica (Miller auditorium, 2200 auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo); Mar 22: Pines of Rome (Miller auditorium, 2200 auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo); apr 19: Carmina Burana (Miller auditorium, 2200 auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo). the livery, 190 5th St, Benton Harbor.

269.925.8760. liverybrew.com. as its name suggests, the livery is a former horse stable, residing in the arts District of downtown Benton Harbor. Not content to just offer its twelve taps of microbrew, an outdoor beer garden, an appetizing soup and sandwich menu, and a coffee bar, the livery is also a venue for an eclectic variety of musical performances. apr 6-7: Gun Metal Black. 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-square-foot event center can be reconfigured to host a variety of meetings, special events, conferences and banquets. Mar 8: little Big town. 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. apr 6: all Beethoven Concert. 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. feb 28-Mar 3: Disney On Ice Presents 100 Years of Magic. feb 25: Maroon 5; feb 28-Mar 3: Mar 5: Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band; Mar 24: Winter Jam 2013; apr 3: Kid rock.

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. through feb 24: the Joffrey Ballet’s American Legends; Mar 8-17: alvin ailey american Dance theater; Mar 19-31: Priscilla Queen of the Desert; apr 13: river North Dance Chicago and orbert Davis’ Chicago Jazz PhilharmonicHavana Blue; apr 14: eisenhower Dance ensemble’s Motown in Motion; apr 24May 5: the Joffrey Ballet’s Othello. 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. through Sept 8: The Book of Mormon. broadway playhouse, 175 e Chestnut. through Mar 3: I Love Lucy Live Onstage. cadillac palace theatre, 151 W randolph St. Mar 12-24: Jekyll & Hyde; apr 2-14: Catch Me If You Can; apr 16-21: American Idiot; apr 23-May 5: Anything Goes. oriental theatre, 24 W randolph. apr 2-May 5: Big Fish. the center for performing arts at governors state university, 1 University Pkwy, University Park.

708.235.2222. centertickets.net. the Center for Performing arts is celebrating 11 years of promoting cultural enhancement on the South Side of Chicago through world-class performing arts productions and arts education. Mar 9: Sing-A-Long Sound of Music; Mar 10: orbert Davis’ Chicago Jazz Philharmonic’s DuSable to Obama—Music from Chicago’s Black Metropolis; Mar 28: Celtic Crossroads; apr 11: The Piano Men—A Musical Journey through the ’70s; apr 17: Ed Asner as FDR.

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, 500-seat courtyard theater and a 200-seat black box theater. through feb 23: Cadre; through Mar 24: Julius Caesar; feb 23-Mar 23: Short Shakespeare! Romeo and Juliet; apr 30Jun 16: Henry VIII. 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. apr 19-20: Arab Spring. 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. feb 23: Herbert Grönemeyer; Mar 13: leonard Cohen; Mar 16: Brit floyd; Mar 22: theresa Caputo; apr 1: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds; apr 19-20: Jim Gaffigan; apr 27: Diana Krall. 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. Mar 7-apr 7: Proof. 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 Mar 3: teddy ferrara; Mar 9-apr 14: Measure for Measure; apr 13-May 12: the Happiest Song Plays Last; apr 27-Jun 2: By the Way, Meet Vera Stark. 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. feb 22: Music of the

Baroque’s the Water Music and More! feb 25: Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s MusicNOW—Voices; Mar 2-3: thodos Dance Chicago’s Winter Series; Mar 7: Chicago High School for the Arts—Eat the Beat; Mar 9: Luna Negra Dance Theater’s Made in Spain; Mar 10: Joffrey Academy of Dance’s Winner Works; Mar 14-17: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s Spring Series; Mar 21, 22-23: Giordano Dance Chicago’s Giordano Dance Chicago; Mar 22: Girodano Dance Chicago’s Eat to the Beat; apr 5: Chamber Music Society of lincoln Center’s Quintessential Quartets; apr 8: Music of the Baroque’s Handel’s Israel in Egypt; apr 10: Music Institute of Chicago’s Eat to the Beat; apr 19-20: Chicago Sinfonietta’s Arab Spring.

rollins; apr 3: Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3 and Choir of King’s College; apr 4: Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3; apr 5: Max raabe and Palast orchester’s I Won’t Dance; apr 6, 27: once Upon a Symphony’s abiyoyo; apr 7: Pierrelaurent aimard; apr 8: Sheherazade; apr 10: emerson String Quartet; apr 11-13, 16: Muti Conducts Bach Mass; apr 13: CSo all-access Chamber’s Bach family; apr 14: Staatskapelle Dresden; apr 15: open rehearsal with riccardo Muti; apr 18-19, 23: Muti Conducts Beethoven 4; apr 19: Chris thile and Brad Mehldau; apr 20: Bobby Mcferrin’s Spirit You all; apr 21: St Paul Chamber orchestra; apr 25-27: Muti and Pollini; apr 28: CSo Chamber at the art Institute of Chicago; apr 28: evgeny Kissin.

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 Mar 3: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg; through Mar 28: La Bohème; feb 25-Mar 30: Rigoletto; Mar 26-apr 6: A Streetcar Named Desire.

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. Mar 6-24: Fiddler on the Roof; Mar 12: Civil War; Mar 28: Scotty McCreery; Mar 30: Stayin’ Alive; apr 4: Little Engine That Could; apr 12: Spring Gala; apr 13-14 STOMP.

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. feb 21-24: Baroque Band’s 21st Century Brandenburg Project; Mar 9: Fifth House Ensemble’s Caught, The Wide Open; Mar 21-23: Compagnie Marie Chouinard’s The Rite of Spring and Henri Michaux—Movements; Mar 22-31: Teatro Buendia’s Pedro Páramo; apr 18: Young Jean Lee’s Theater Company’s Untitled Feminist Show; apr 30-May 1: eight blackbird with Nico Muhly and Bryce Dressner. orchestra hall at symphony center, 220 S Michigan Ave, Chicago.

312.294.3000. cso.org. the Chicago Symphony orchestra is consistently hailed as one of today’s leading orchestras.

Performances by the CSo are much in demand at home and in the most prestigious music capitals of the world. led by renowned Italian conductor riccardo Muti as its tenth music director, the CSo is working to fulfill his vision for the orchestra-to deepen its engagement with the Chicago community, to nurture the legacy of the CSo while supporting a new generation of musicians, and to collaborate with visionary artists.

Performances held daily, except Wednesday. feb 19: Rachmaninov and Sibelius; feb 21, 23: Tristan and Isolde; feb 22, 24: Beyond the Score—The Tristan Effect; feb 23: CSO All-Access Chamber’s The Wagner Effect; feb 2324, Mar 16-17, 30, apr 7, 14, 2-287: In the Park with Civic; feb 25: MusicNoW— Voices; feb 28: Yo-Yo Ma and esa-Pekka Salonen; Mar 10: Civic orchestra of Chicago’s Community Concert and anne-Sophie Mutter; Mar 12: Boulez and Bronfman; Mar 13: Baroque Band; Mar 14-16: Boulez Conducts Wagner; Mar 16-17: Now Let’s Sing; Mar 20: CSo all-access Chamber’s tchaikovsky; Mar 21-24: tchaikovsky 4; Mar 22: Monterey Jazz festival 55th anniversary; Mar 2830: Uchida Plays Mozart; Mar 29: Sonny

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. feb 21: The Art of Murder; Mar 14: Flanagan’s Wake; Mar 23: Heartache Tonight Eagles Tribute Band; Mar 28-May 19: Forever Plaid. 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 Mar 3: The Mother F**ker with the Hat; through apr 28: The Birthday Party; apr 4-Jun 9: Head of Passes. victory gardens theater, various venues. 773.871.3000. victorygardens. org. as one of the country’s most respected midsized professional theater companies, this tony awardwinning 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 feb 27: Disconnect; apr 5-May 5: The Whale.

For more events and destinations, please go to visitshoremagazine.com march/april 2013

city winery chicago, 1200 W Randolph St, Chicago. 312.733.9463. citywinery.com. the city’s newest concert venue and only fully operational winery, will present an eclectic mix of the most respected names in pop, rock, jazz, blues and world music. feb 18: Idan raichel Project; feb 19: Greensky Bluegrass; feb 20: Poundcake; feb 21: Griffin House; feb 22: Pat McGee; feb 23: eilen Jewell; feb 25: Nicholas tremulis orchestra; feb 27: Jayson (JC) Brooks, andy rosenstein and Ben taylor of the Uptown Sound; feb 28-Mar 1: Howie Day; Mar 2: Greg Brown; Mar 5-6: Johnny Winter; Mar 7: Cash’d out’s the Music of Johnny Cash; Mar 14: Dan Hicks and the Hot licks; Mar 15: Nanci Griffith; Mar 16: tyrone Wells; Mar 17: Sharon Shannon Band; Mar 22: David Wilcox and Catie Curtis;

Mar 23: ana Moura; Mar 29: Hayes Carll; apr 4: Wayne Hancock; apr 5: Paul thorn and Bruce robison and Kelly Willis; apr 6-7: David Bromberg Quartet and allen toussaint; apr 8: Creed Bratton; apr 9-10: David Grisman andy Statman Quartet; apr 12: Bill Bragg; apr 19: Holly Near Band; apr 20: the Proclaimers; apr 21: Paris Combo; apr 25: Noa (achinoam Nini).

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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. Mar 15-16: Beethoven and Blue Jeans; apr 19-20: Women as Muses.

Change up your routine and hang out in Southwestern Michigan this week. No place so close will enliven your spirits as much as this beautiful, fun-filled region along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.

So why are you sitting at home or the office?

Pop in for memory-making good times!

Pop over to Southwestern Michigan for a great time this week Fun happens naturally here.

It starts at our Lake Michigan shoreline where you can sail kites on brisk lake breezes. Race up and down towering sand dunes. Catch a mighty salmon or dip for wiggly smelt.

Photograph our historic lighthouses.

Kayak on mist-blanketed waters. Or watch the sun set in a blaze of fiery colors with the one you love.

Outdoor fun rolls out beyond our water’s edge.

There are few places in the Midwest that are more sweetly scented in spring than our countryside. Acres of vineyards and orchards cover our rolling hills and river valleys with refreshing aromas.

Like to golf? Play your favorite sport at dozens of challenging courses that offer tee times to fit your schedule. The Golf Club at Harbor Shores, a Jack Nicklaus Signature design, was the site of last year’s Senior PGA Championship so you know the caliber of play you can enjoy. But we have plenty of courses for beginners and mid-range players that make this a fun place for family and friend outings as well.

But our great outdoors offer so much more in spring and summer.

Bike our scenic country roads. Go

birding in our nature preserves.

Picnic in a meadow flooded with wildflowers. Feel your heart pound at motocross races. Watch colorful wings flutter at Sarett Nature Center’s butterfly house. Hike through woods.

Fill weekend after weekend with our festivals and fairs. And at the end of May start seeing all the wonderful trains, planes and helicopters pop up along St. Joseph’s streets during its summer outdoor art exhibit!

There are plenty of good times to be had indoors, too.

Shop at boutiques and galleries in our quaint Victorian-era towns.

Find antiques. Play arcade and laser tag games. Win at our gaming resort. Whirl around and around on our magnificent carousel. Jam with the live music performers in our concert venues. Retrace history in our museums. Stir your soul with our plays. And make memories in ways only you can create in our children’s museums.

Savor the juicy sweetness of locally grown fruits.

The sweetly scented orchards and gardens of spring turn into baskets of plump, juicy berries, sun-sweet peaches and fresh-today vegetables in summer. Many of our farms

welcome you to pick your favorite foods. Others have markets brimming with baskets of goodness.

You can also let our renowned chefs enthrall your taste buds at an eclectic selection of restaurants. Sip our award-winning wines – then bring home bottles of your favorite vintages from more than a dozen local wineries. Satiate your sweet tooth with hand-dipped chocolates, mountain-high ice cream cones and buttery European-style pastries.

Rejuvenate with a wonderful night’s sleep.

At day’s end, you’ll find amenityfilled hotels to lakeside cottages to quaint bed & breakfast inns to campgrounds where you can refresh before enjoying another day of adventures. You’ll feel so at home … it’ll be hard to leave.

So come to where good times pop up all year.

Visit www.swmichigan.org, www.facebook.com/swmtc or call 269-925-6301 for lots more ideas and great places to stay.

em m Make

ories!

Where fun pops up all year long!

This year, have more fun. Go where good times pop up like umbrellas on our sandy beaches. Where your favorite music plays in our indoor and outdoor concert venues. We’ll pour you a glass of our award-winning wines or brews. Send you whirling on a carousel. Golfing or kayaking along rivers. Fill your days with rollicking festivals or refreshing solitude.

And offer you a welcoming place to sleep along Lake Michigan’s shores… after the sun paints our horizon with crimson gold.

swmichigan.org 269-925-6301 facebook.com/swmtc

Cottage

renov ation reveals hidden history WorDS BY JUlIe DeaN KeSSler || PHotoGraPHY BY toNY V. MartIN

When Alene Valkanas and James McComb discovered footprints from the past on their property, they felt compelled to follow them. The footprints were architectural—the outlines of dwellings that were functional but tiny.

Now three charming cottages sit along a curved path in Union Pier.

0 visitshoremagazine.com 4

lene and James are enthusiastic as they explain it was the magnificent, robust trees that first drew them to the property in 1998. “I could be called a conservative tree-hugger,” says James with a chuckle. “The trees on the property were simply irresistible.”

That was after years in Chicago— James at Leo Burnett advertising, Alene at the Museum of Contemporary Art and curator for Arts Alliance of Illinois.

“Then I discovered I would rather paint art than direct it,” says James. Freed from the daily obligations in the city, the couple decided to put down roots in southwestern Michigan, already familiar with the area’s peaceful yet vibrant little towns.

“We thought it would take a year to find a place that was right,” says Alene. “But that first week Jim saw this property and he was charmed.”

The property had belonged to a family who bought the

mid-century home from the original owners and lived there for five years, making mostly cosmetic changes. There was the 900-square-foot main cottage; a second cottage whose 460 square feet had been cozy for two girls’ visits to their aunt; and a chicken coop. Ten blissful years in the main cottage passed before Alene and James were moved to make significant changes. James got together with Paul Oman of Union Pier Builders to help realize his vision of a larger, more open main house and to make the two other buildings more functional.

The tiny, 460-square-foot guest cottage was tackled first. Among the additions are a wood-burning stove and hearthstone, and flooring of wormy chestnut from a barn.

The bath is transformed into a retro delight, with bead board and washstand, while the stone-lined shower is an upscale application coordinating with the rustic aspects of the little cottage. A blue chest found in the chicken coop was reclaimed, and James plans to transform a room used for an office into a bedroom.

In 2000, the couple built a studio where the chicken coop

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living room, Alene points out a treasured George Nakashima coffee table, its rustic and asymmetrical slab selected at his studio, where his daughter Mira completed the piece. Nearby are Magistretti chairs. An artist created the mantel of flagstones for the fireplace that’s on the smaller size, so as not to dominate the space. Alene explains that much of the furniture from their Chicago home works here. “It’s more contemporary, but still able to express the comfort you expect in a country home.”

What was the guest bedroom is now an office. The master bedroom and new guest bedroom both benefit from the couple’s appreciation for art and color; each is awash with deep jewel tones and striking artwork. For the guest bath James chose glass blocks for the shower and a skylight, since it had no windows.

Alene is pleased with the new full basement with the entrance is from the inside, rather than the old exterior cellar doors.

The main cottage will have a new patio soon, where the couple can enjoy the extensive foliage they’ve planted right from the start—yellow-flowering japonica, yellow magnolia, Edith Bouge evergreen, three white pines, stewardia, dwarf hydrangeas, purple smoke bushes and more.

Evenings often find Alene and James outdoors. “We like to sit in the glider at night and watch the light change,” says James.

Not that it’s always quiet here. “A great surprise for us was that the area is populated with Chicago people. I hadn’t anticipated that we would have a wonderful circle of friends making it feel like home,” says James.

“And then there’s Harbor Country Progress,” adds Alene.

“We’re active politically, socially, and environmentally. Every month we have a potluck, a program, and report on events and activities. It’s a wonderful social network, and some use Harbor Country Progress as a model for community activism.”

James and Alene delight in recounting the Sunday evening when visitors came up the driveway.

“A woman said, ‘I hope you don’t mind—we used to live here.’ We were delighted,” says Alene. “They chatted about how they loved to come here in the summers to visit their aunt, and sleeping in the guest cottage. They told us stories and later one of them sent us photos of the place as it was then.

“We don’t know who the people in the photos are, but it’s so nice to know the place we love so much was loved before.”

“There’s still a sense of close community here,” says James, who turns to a smiling Alene. She is ruffling the fur of one of the golden retrievers, while the other one leans on James, gazing up at him expectantly. The cottage door swings open and everyone heads out into the sunshine.

Alene’s sigh is deep and appreciative. “Our little cottages are just right now. Isn’t it wonderful here?”

march/april 2013

had been. Since then “The Coop” has had a multipurpose life.

Half is a studio for watercolorist James’ artwork, half is a garage and work area. And during the renovation of the main cottage, James and Alene lived in the studio.

A vaulted ceiling over James’s work area gives the artist more natural light.

“We were quite content to be there, watching the house become what we wanted it to be, and watching the fantastic changes in Michigan’s weather,” recalls Alene.

One element of Michigan’s weather is not so welcome. Alene and James were home when a windstorm storm swept through the area, snapping several trees, including some white pines along the driveway. “Those awesome trees and their magnificent heights,” says Alene with a touch of sorrow. “In spite of the storms that came through, lots of trees did survive, including our largest and oldest white pine.”

James chuckles ruefully. “Oh yes, we were able to see that storm. In fact (WGN meteorologist) Tom Skilling used my photo when talking about it on the news.” There are massive storms that sweep across this county.”

The short walk from the studio to the main cottage is lined with ornamental trees and bushes that also grace the entire two-and-a-half-acre property. James and Alene are clearly content with the main cottage’s expansion to 1,600 square feet. All that remains from the original cottage are the two bedrooms and an office. A master bath and laundry room were built over the original footprint, and the front of the house is now on one side, to take advantage of the warming sun. From the dining room they can see holly, rhododendron, and other foliage that forms a mini allee. The garage has given way to living space, with French doors adding light and charm. A mud room with plenty of light was essential, since several of the huge potted plants alongside the house are wintered indoors. The refurbished kitchen now has a cheerfully bright blue ceiling and is still a modest size—yet big enough for avid cook Alene to whip up dishes from her nearly 150 cookbooks.

“There’s joy in sharing meals and celebrating with friends,” says Alene, who in September hosted 35 to 40 people for a reunion of the Museum of Contemporary Art. James’ design for the main cottage allows natural light throughout. The screened porch addition gets the last light from the west and a skylight in the laundry room brightens the space. In the bedroom, a window was converted to a door to provide access to the back yard and to the dog run for the couple’s two lively golden retrievers, who joyously bounded about during the tour.

The dining room was the living room; switching their uses provides a natural flow of movement through the home. In the

green goat in valparaiso

photography by [this page] Tony V. MarTin; [opposite page from left to right] WooLLy MaMMoTh anTiques, Tony V. MarTin

Dumpster DivingDĂŠcor

woolly mammoth antiques

UpcyclInG anD rEpUrpoSInG arE ToDay’S HIGH-EnD DESIGn worDs by kiM ranegar

If yoU Go

march/april 2013

its eco-friendly approach, as well as Bowman’s favorite animal. Inside you’ll find from My hand to yours a whimsical mix of found furniture—lawn 3791 122nd ave ornaments repurposed as wall art next to allegan, Mich. yesterday’s furniture painted today’s colors 269.673.6700 in a fun mix of style with a purpose. a trio of creative minds in South Bend the green goat have elevated recycling to an art form at 51 Jefferson st Junk evolution where they create anything valparaiso, ind. but junk. Char Swoveland, and Bernie and 219.286.3955 linda Sherck—all formerly employed by the Junk evolution rV industry—have upcycled their workaday 528 colfax, suite 2 lives with their ultra-cool, eco-friendly store south bend, ind. in the east Bank Village. on any given day, 574.215.7812 their ever-changing array of offerings can include such one-of-a-kind finds as a side woolly Mammoth antiques table topped with a vintage Clue game, oddities & resale a french-inspired chair upholstered in an 1513 w. foster ave old feed sack or a wire basket upended chicago, ill. to become a light fixture. “Some of my 773.989.3294 favorite things are things that others may initially pass by,” says Swoveland. “We really try to live our lives this way and to teach others the importance of being sustainable.”

“Sometimes it takes a little bit of thought when you come upon an item that’s in need of rescue,” says linda

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here most people see a broken stereo cabinet, the artisans at Junk evolution in South Bend see a mobile bar. a small canoe becomes a coffee table at the Green Goat in Valparaiso. Shipping crates are transformed into a shelving unit at andersonville’s Woolly Mammoth. an old headboard gets new life as the back for a new bench at from My Hand to Yours in allegan. Whether you call it upcycling or repurposing, it’s become a fresh trend in design.

“It’s like the ’60s all over again—this repurposing movement,” says Connie Bowman, who opened the Green Goat last fall in a repurposed building in Valparaiso’s downtown. “During the ’60s we were creative and we made things work. I remember those big wooden spools. everyone had a table! I had a couch made of a bathtub,” she smiles. “People are trying to get back to some of that earth consciousness. Plus, people are more practical these days. they don’t want to spend $5,000 on a new dining room table.”

Bowman’s store, the Green Goat, was named for

skye and adam rust of woolly mammoth antiques.

Yours in allegan, Mich. as a combination art/home goods store and artist workshop. today in the 6,000-square foot space is home to seven artists and two craftsmen who create art and reinterpret furnishings for today’s lifestyles. “I had a passion to not only create art but to work with other artists to teach the community that anything and everything can be turned into art to avoid over packing our landfills,” says emelander, who has a background in engineering, art and design. the store is bursting with altered art and furnishings— dressers decoupaged with vintage magazine pages, old fish tanks turned tables, objects reclaimed and reinvented.

So where do these artisans find the raw materials for their repurposed creations? “a lot of the best finds are free things we find on the curb or that people just give us,” says Swoveland. “I garage sale,” admits Bowman, who is also on the lookout for the roadside junk pile. “I do a lot of flea markets and farm auctions and junk shops. I also visit hoarders who realize they need to sell a few things. I’ve literally gone through places with a flashlight. When we spot that great find, it’s what we call a Zelda moment,” says rust.

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his feeling of finding buried treasure is also what drives customers to these repurposing retailers, which appeal to a broad demographic. “teenagers love it because they can afford it, but older people like the nostalgia of the old pieces,” says Bowman. “We had a four-year-old who chose a visit here for her birthday and we also had a lady who took a cab here from a nursing home,” says rust.

In addition to one-of-a-kind finds, shoppers are seeking a retro or vintage vibe, say these designers. “Mad Men is definitely having an impact,” says Bowman. “People are loving vintage barware and bar carts and even ash trays,” echoes Sherck. “old is new,” says emelander. “It’s a movement that is here to stay!”

photography by Tony V. MarTin

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Sherck. “We consider ourselves artists. Sometimes we pick up an item that intrigues us and we live with it for a while before we decide how to transform it,” she says. the Junkers are trend watchers and follow a lot of blogs and shelter magazines, but can’t really explain where their ideas come from. like creating a message board from the support springs of an old mattress, or covering a coffee table with a box of vintage dominoes. “It’s a sickness,” confides Swoveland. the store itself is completely transformed monthly when they unveil a new theme on the first friday. rust & ruffles, New York loft, Industrial Chic, and Steampunk are just some of their recent offerings. the trio does most of their own construction and creating, thanks in part to Bernie Sherck’s 35 years in mold and tool design. adam rust, the mastermind behind Woolly Mammoth in andersonville, gets his inspiration from a graduate degree in art, years as an illustrator and a stint as a carpenter. “everything I’ve ever done was with a sense of humor,” he says. “My experience as a carpenter enhanced my building and making skills tenfold,” he says. Yet the construction experience also inspired his creativity. “for a while there everyone wanted me to paint their rooms brown and tan and beige. It drove me crazy to be monotonous,” he says. rust and his wife, Skye, opened Woolly Mammoth in 2010 to offer the opposite of monotonous.

In addition to eclectic collected furnishings, Woolly Mammoth offers assorted pieces for artists to combine in their own creations. You’ll find bins of old Monopoly pieces next to jars of old dentures and plastic army men, right next to a bucket of bones (3 for $12) “everything is curated and organized. You can interact with the merchandise or just stand in place and use your eyes,” says rust. Woolly Mammoth also offers an assortment of reclaimed taxidermy for décor or creating. rust recently bought a box of musical parts and created a unique combination of duck and clarinet for a “duckinet” art piece, now for sale in the shop.

Designer lorinda emelander opened from My Hand to

green tips from the pros PAiNT!

to breathe new life into a piece, consider a new color, says connie bowman of green goat in valparaiso. some of bowman’s favorite transformative paint colors are coral, red and aqua. “new hardware—drawer pulls or handles—can also change up a look,” she says.

TuRN iT uPSiDe DOWN

rethink the direction of a piece, says lorinda emelander of from My hand to yours in allegan. they recently repurposed a ladder back chair by turning it upside down and creating a hutch-like unit by using the underside of the chair as a shelf.

Give iT A NeW uSe

Just because a piece was originally designed as a utilitarian desk or dresser doesn’t mean it can’t have a little fun, say the designers at Junk evolution. “a dresser that’s missing some drawers can make a great wine bar by installing slats for wine bottles in the holes where the drawers once were,” says char swoveland of Junk evolution. “we’re of the philosophy that anything could be a bar,” she laughs.

Be uNPReDiCTABle

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march/april 2013

adam rust of woolly Mammoth advocates showing your own unique style. “we can do whatever we want with anything we have. a bunch of old busted up archery arrows in a jar can make a great bouquet,” he says. “being like everyone else is boring,” he says.

hyde park homes at 5219 blackstone avenue.

The houses of

Hyde Park Words by Paul Ranogajec

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photo by tony v. Martin

Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hyde Park has always been something of an urban oasis. For all its cosmopolitanism today, in its early history it was a suburb that only slowly became a city neighborhood. It formally joined Chicago in 1889 along with more than a hundred other square miles of unevenly developed land around the outskirts of the industrial city.

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n 1893, the World’s Columbian Exposition helped spur more intensive development in Hyde Park, turning sections of it into a denser, more urbane center.

The growth of the University of Chicago, founded a year before the Exposition, contributed to this urbanization as well, bringing a constant influx of new residents and visitors to the neighborhood.

The “Park” in Hyde Park is a term of distinct significance in Chicago. The city’s motto—“Urbs in Horto,” city in a garden—stakes a claim for a special city-nature relationship. Hyde Park was part of a surrounding ring of outlying suburbs which included “park” in their names, often linked to an actual bit of green: think of Lincoln Park, Oak Park, and Evergreen Park, for instance.

As a suburb-turned-urban district, Hyde Park is characterized by its relative spaciousness: many large houses, often mansions, set back from the street by deep lawns dotted with lots of trees and shrubs. It is one of the best neighborhoods from which to get a sense of the whole history of Chicago’s residential architectural development, from the wood-frame homes of the mid-nineteenth century, to the mansions of the Gilded Age, the apartment buildings of the early twentieth century, and the varied housing schemes of the last sixty years.

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed most of the city’s woodframe housing stock.

But in outlying areas untouched by the fire, these houses remained and continued to be built. Although subsequent development has removed many of these vulnerable wooden structures, Hyde Park still contains a few remnants, including 5630 South Kimbark, detailed in the popular midnineteenth-century Italianate style with round, hooded windows and large, scroll-bracketed gables.

Even more modest “workingmen’s cottages,” or “Chicago cottages,” were built by the dozens in the post-Civil War years through the end of the century.

The one at 5417 Blackstone Avenue preserves a good sense of what large swathes of the district, especially

in the blocks closest to the rail lines near the lake, would have looked like: imagine street after street of similar buildings, interspersed with houses like the one on Kimbark.

By the 1880s and 1890s, the era of architectural eclecticism was in full swing across the nation. Among the most popular types were the picturesque Queen Anne and the stately Romanesque. Queen Anne was an import from England: varied materials from wood shingles to slate, stucco, and brick were combined in appealing patterns and silhouettes to form variegated gables, porches, and dormers. Along with small panes of glass, the Queen Anne attempted to create a handcrafted, preindustrial aesthetic. Many good examples can be found in the area, including 4800 Kimbark by the architect G. A. Garnsey, built in 1888; the attached houses at 5832-34 Harper Avenue by Solon Beman; and the house at 5752 Harper by W. W. Boyington, designer of the beloved Water Tower and Pumping Station on Michigan Avenue.

In the sturdy Romanesque, inspired largely by the example of Boston architect H. H. Richardson, heavy stonework, solid expanses of wall, and beautifully detailed round-arched doorways and windows created a “boulevard house” type found throughout the city. Hyde Park has its own appealing specimens, including the house at 4845 Drexel Avenue by the firm of Treat & Foltz, built in 1887.

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photography courtesy of Library of Congress; [opposite page middle] Tony V. MarTin

march/april 2013

the isidore heller house is a Frank lloyd wright-designed home located at 5132 south woodlawn avenue in hyde park. the design is credited as one of the turning points in wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shift to geometric, prairie school architecture, which is defined by horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, windows grouped in horizontal bands, and an integration with the landscape, which is meant to evoke native prairie surroundings.

photography courtesy of Library of Congress; [bottom, right] Tony V. MarTin

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the robie house was designed and built between 1908 and 1910 by architect Frank lloyd wright. it is renowned as the greatest example of his prairie style, the first uniquely american architectural style. all windows on the third floor of the house contain art glass patterns.

Prairie Style, it was designed with strong horizontal lines, small Roman bricks, wide overhangs, geometric patterns, and closed approach. When built in 1910, nature’s prairie had long been banished from the area.

Wright’s nostalgic understanding of the family unit led him to turn Robie House inwards to create a private utopia. “Where’s the front door?” is a common question from visitors.

Wright designed three other houses in the neighborhood: 4852 and 4858 Kenwood Avenue, both from 1892, and 5132 Woodlawn, from 1897.

The 1892 houses—among the set of so-called “bootleg” houses, which Wright designed as moonlighting projects while he worked for Louis Sullivan—are most in keeping with the architectural character of the neighborhood. They demonstrate that Wright, in his early years, could be as good an eclectic architect as any.

Built at the same time as Robie House, but much more typical of its period, is 5046 South Greenwood Avenue. Architecturally modest, this house wouldn’t have made it on earlier itineraries of local architectural landmarks. It does today because it is the Chicago home of President Barack Obama and family. Another presidential Hyde Park, Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Georgian mansion on the Hudson River in New York, has greater architectural pretensions, but the Obama house has the advantage of a rich urban context.

As Jean F. Block wrote in her still useful book, Hyde Park Houses (1978), the domestic architecture of the neighborhood is an excellent guide to a much larger story. As she put it, those houses “indicate how and why the community grew. To walk the streets is to see displayed the story of midwestern people and their homes.”

march/april 2013

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yde Park also features a house type common in other parts of Chicago: the attached stone-fronted rowhouse in an eclectic mode that borrows from Queen Anne, Romanesque, Gothic, and other traditional styles. The fine group at 493842 Ellis Avenue, with its peaked gables, dormers, oriole windows and covered porches, is quintessentially Chicagoan.

Most of the large mansions that survive date from the late 1890s and after. These houses were usually designed in variations of classical and Georgian styles, often with motifs and accents borrowed from Queen Anne, Tudor, and the French Beaux-Arts. Some of the most distinctive of these large turn-of-thecentury piles are the Finch House at 5235 University Avenue by James Gamble Rogers, best known for his quadrangles at Yale University; the William Harper House at 5855 University by Henry Ives Cobb, a prolific local architect; and the slightly smaller but very elegant trio of Woodlawn Avenue houses by Howard Van Doren Shaw: the Goodspeed, Mason, and Mrs. William Harper Houses at 5706, 5715, and 5728, respectively.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House at 5757 Woodlawn Avenue has long been the connoisseur’s favorite. It’s the most curious among the varied houses in the district, standing defiantly aloof from its surroundings. As the epitome of Wright’s distinctive

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BOOGIE CHECK

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John records landecker is on the air every night in chicago on wls-Fm (94.7Fm). he has written a memoir about his tremendous radio career with the help of his former producer, shore contributor rick kaempfer. the book records Truly is My Middle Name comes out via eckhartz press (eckhartzpress.com) on march 28, and features not only landecker’s memories, but those of more than thirty fellow radio and media professionals who knew and worked with John. the following is an excerpt from the book, about John’s most famous radio bit from the 1970s, the boogie check.

a lot of the bits that we did on Wls came out of something spontaneous, just making lemonade out of lemons.

Boogie Check started because i was bored. i was playing the same songs over and over again and i wanted to shake things up a bit. a lot of people ask me where i came up with the name. Well, i called it “Boogie Check” because of something JJ Jeffrey did before he went out on dates. He used to conduct a sixty second “booger check” to make sure he didn’t have any boogers in his mustache. i figured, if you could have a sixty second booger check, why not a sixty second “Boogie” check? My competition at WCFl (our arch rival station) was a guy named dr. Brock, and his calling card was the word “Boogie”. i figured i would tweak him, and have some fun, so i just started answering the phones live on the air by saying “Boogie Check. You talkin’ to me?” (the last line taken from robert deniro’s character in “taxi driver”). if the person on the other end of the line didn’t respond quickly, i hung up on them, and went to the next line. that’s it. that’s all Boogie Check was.

What made it work was the combination of teenagers on the phone, and my spontaneous ad-libbed reaction to whatever they

said. nothing like this had ever been done on rock radio before—the only time any jock took calls was strictly for song requests. this was just a free for all; spontaneous, interactive, stream of consciousness. When a caller said the word “F**k” on the air, though, it also became clear that there was no delay system at Wls. news of this spread like wildfire throughout the Chicagoland teen community. eventually Wls engineers Carl nelson and ed Glab did design a delay system, but by then, Boogie Check was off and running.

the wls air-staff, mid ’70s — steve king, bob sirott, yvonne daniels, John landecker, Fred winston, and JJ Jeffrey

y l u r T ’ ds me r a o N c ‘Re y Middle is M

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ALAN ROSEN REMEMBERS Former WLS Engineer Alan Rosen was there for many Boogie Checks, running the board.“One night when I arrived at work, the engineer before me told me that the delay system wasn’t working. I told John that we’d have to scrap Boogie Check for the night.

But when the regular time for Boogie Check rolled around, John told me to play the opening theme music anyway.

John opened his mic and said on the air, ‘My engineer Alley has told me that the delay system is broken and that we’d better not do the Boogie Check tonight. Now THAT’S the kind of thing that your PARENTS would say because they don’t trust you. I know that I can treat you all like adults and that you’ll be responsible and we can do this just like we always do.’

John punched up the first caller and said: “Boogie Check” The caller responded: “F*** you!”

Most of it got on the air before I could turn it down. John just stood there with this expression on his face that I had never seen before. He said nothing for several very long seconds.

When John opened his mouth, he was mad.

BOOGIE CHECK CHARACTERS

John Landecker and John Travolta

All sorts of eclectic characters emerged on the Boogie Check. A kid that hung out around the station was dubbed “The C-Kid” (because he always wore a Cubs hat). He would call in, sound a horn, say “Good Evening John”, and then offer his observations about the world. Other kids called up and flushed toilets, burped, asked weird questions, or told corny jokes.

One Boogie Check contributor turned into one of the biggest rock stars on the planet; the lead singer of the Smashing Pumpkins, Billy Corgan. I met him a few years ago and he told me that when he was a kid he used to call into Boogie Check and claim to be Maurice White, the drummer from Earth, Wind & Fire.

But the problem was that I didn’t get any calls. So I called my brothers and asked them to call, and I called my buddies and asked them to call. And they did until people started to get it. But when they did, they could also tell there was no delay. Then they started calling up to say stuff like, ‘I just saw your mother at the A&W sucking a c**k!’”

JONATHON BRANDMEIER REMEMBERS

WGN-Chicago Morning Man Jonathon Brandmeier was also a Boogie Check devotee...”When I had my first radio job, I was 16 at WFON in Fon du Lac, and my boss at the time said ‘Do whatever you want.’ I loved Boogie Check so much I wanted to do my version of it. So I called it “The Loon Line,” and just took random calls.

THE BOOGIE NETWORK I’ve heard a lot of stories over the years from people that called into Boogie Check. Apparently, there were so many calls coming in at once, it would tie up the phone lines, and if a kid called and got a busy signal, but stayed on the line anyway, he or she could talk to the other kids calling in between the beeps.

Can I take credit for the first social network?

In the end, Boogie Check was remarkably simple. The kids had to be kids and I had to be funny.

It worked. I loved it. It came easily for me. It required no preparation.

I just answered the first line, and away we went.

I’d like to thank JJ Jeffrey and Martin Scorsese for their contributions.

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Oldies show—Rick Kaempfer, John Landecker, Leslie Keiling, Richard Cantu, Vince Argento

March/April 2013

photography courtesy of [above] John Landecker, [below] Scott Childers; [opposite page, top] John Landecker, [right] Scott Childers

‘I TRUSTED you people!’ he yelled on the air. ‘I thought I could treat you like adults! I guess I was wrong. I have a wife and two girls and I’m not going to lose my job because of YOU.’ He was yelling at the listeners! It was a surreal moment, but a totally John Landecker moment.

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SPANSof

time Southwest Michigan’s iconic bridges

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n a day-to-day basis, most people interact with a bridge not as a piece of art or history, but rather as a means of simply getting from point A to point B, which is perhaps the reason why roads and bridges rarely cross over into serious discussions of architecture for many casual observers. But as Northwest Indiana prepares for a newly designed Cline Avenue Bridge project to get underway in the coming months, it serves as a reminder that the best bridges tend to stand the test of time from both an engineering and an aesthetic perspective. • Throughout the area, in fact, one can find a number of historic spans that have held up not only to the weight of their traffic, but the weight of the passing years as well. While they may not carry the landmark cache of a Brooklyn or a Golden Gate, or generate the tourist frenzy of a quaintly rural covered model, they continue to do their jobs as they have for decades—with integrity, grace and, in some cases, innovation. • The historically significant bridges of Southwest Michigan, for example, may not be able to rival their counterparts in Madison County, Iowa or Brown County, Indiana for romantic appeal or postcard sales, but historian Sigrid Bergland of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) believes that a bridge can prove noteworthy in ways that aren’t always quite as obvious. Here she highlights five examples of historically significant bridges that deserve more than just a passing glance.

WorDS BY MarK loeHrKe • PHotoGraPHY BY NatHaN HoltH of HIStorICBrIDGeS.orG

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Administration, the bridge was moved to its current location in St. Joseph County in 1938. The bridge is a camelback pony truss bridge and is increasingly rare. These types of truss bridges were easy to disassemble and move.

(According to MDOT spokesman Nick Schirripa, the Prairie River Bridge is set to be on the move once again in 2016 when it will be dismantled and relocated to a nearby county road as part of a replacement project).

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Berrien County

us-12 over the st. Joseph river Constructed in 1954, this bridge reflects Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts to develop a highway system prior to the passage of the Interstate Highway Act of 1956 (which set in motion the nationwide construction of the freeway system connecting major cities across the U.S.). Michigan was a pioneer in freeway construction, and this bridge was built to bypass the urban area of Niles as part of a never-built freeway connecting I-94 in Kalamazoo with South Bend, Indiana.

This particular bridge has remained relatively unaltered compared to other similar multi-span bridges from the 1940s and 1950s, and is an excellent representative example from the time period.

St.Joseph County

M-86 over the prairie river The Prairie River Bridge was originally erected in 1923 over the Rogue River along Telegraph Road in the Metro Detroit area. With funding through the Public Works

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St.Joseph County

Mottville pedestrian bridge over the st. Joseph river This triple camelback bridge in Mottville is the only surviving multiple-span camelback bridge in Michigan, making it unique and very historically significant. Only a small number of triple-span and double-span camelback bridges were ever constructed. These camelback bridges are found primarily in Michigan and Ontario, meaning camelback bridges are very unusual nationwide. MDOT preserved this bridge in 1990 by constructing a new bridge just to the west and turning the camelback bridge into a pedestrian-only structure.

Kalamazoo County

scott road (38th) over i-94 This bridge was constructed in 1951 as Michigan began constructing a freeway system to alleviate traffic congestion in larger urban areas. This segment of I-94 near Kalamazoo was built as part of the initial wave of statewide expressway construction soon after the end of World War II. Michigan built the first depressed urban expressway (Davison Freeway, now M-8 in Highland Park) in the U.S. in 1942, and applied that extremely successful model across the state. I-94 became the first completed border-to-border interstate, linking New Buffalo and Detroit, in 1960. The Scott Road Bridge is one of the most intact examples from the initial six bridges built along this early segment of I-94.

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M-139 (formerly us-12 or Main) over the st. Joseph river This is now the second-longest, earth-filled, concretearch bridge known to survive in Michigan, with an overall length of 338 feet. A recent survey of historic vehicular bridges in Michigan identified about 23 similar, National Register-eligible, deck-arch (concrete-arch) bridges surviving in the state. The bridge was built in 1919 as a replacement for another structure at the same location, making it at least the fourth to be constructed at the site. This crossing of the St. Joseph River, along with the Broadway Street Bridge one block south, opened up the west side of the river in Niles to development.

Unfortunately, this bridge is slated for replacement in the next few years.

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Berrien County

In

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the 1830s, Chicago, though still a village, had aspirations not only to become a city, but one with glorious parks as well.

“They adopted the Latin phrase ‘urbs in horto’ meaning city in a garden,” says Julia Bachrach, historian and preservationist for the Chicago Park District and author of The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks, Second Edition (Center for American Places 2012). “There were only a few thousand people back then.”

But the newly minted city’s ambitions, grandiose as they might have seemed regarding swamp land best known for its abundance of wild onions and the accompanied smell, were real and realized.

This being Chicago, the idea of public gardens was not just a homage to nature’s beauty. Early developers in the 1840s and ’50s realized that neighborhood lots sold more quickly when there was a park nearby. But no matter the reason, today, Chicago has 585 diverse parks encompassing 8200 acres which are home

the waterfall in columbus park, the 144acre prairie style park that is considered Jens Jensen’s public masterpiece.

to 250 historic buildings. More than 100 of Chicago’s parks are considered historically significant.

Bachrach’s childhood love of house museums and historic architecture led her into a master’s degree in landscape architecture from the University of Wisconsin. Her career morphed into a job as a preservation coordinator in Highland Park and then into a post with the Chicago Parks Department.

She was hired by Ed Ward Uhlir, now director of design, architecture and landscape for Millennium Park.

When working as an engineer for the park district in 1987, he discovered an immense cache of historic plans, photographs and maps dating to 1871 in a long forgotten sub-basement beneath Soldier Field. Having interviewed Bachrach but not having a job for her at the time, he now saw that her skills would be perfect for helping organize the thousands of artifacts.

Bachrach, who received a national Stewardship Excellence Award from the Cultural Landscape Foundation and for the last two years has served on the board of trustees for the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, is herself a trove of information. She is a historic preservationist who likes to unravel the skeins of information found in dusty archives, enjoying the myriad of directions in which they lead.

“I was doing research on the original landscape of Lincoln Park and going back through all the original contracts,” says Bachrach, in a voice that makes you aware that for her, reading 150-year-old construction contracts handwritten in ink is akin to most of us enjoying an ice cream sundae. “The zoo began in 1868 and landscaper Swain Nelson and his

photo [this page, bottom] courtesy of JuLia baChraCh

City in a

Garden By y JJANE AMMEsON

cousin were hired to develop it. Many of the residents in the unimproved areas north of there had cows which would just wonder on the construction site. So the commissioner gave Nelson permission to round them up and put them in an enclosure and at night, when people came to get their cows, charge $15, which was a lot of money back then.”

The projects she’s been involved with include restoring the 2.5-acre Lily Pool designed by Alfred Caldwell in the 1930s which was designated a National Historic Landmark in Lincoln Park, converting the old Stearns Quarry into a 27-acre nature park and the revitalization of Columbus Park created by landscape architect Jens Jensen between 1915 and 1920. The 144-acre Prairie style park, designated a National Historic Landmark in 2003, is considered Jensen’s public masterpiece.

Currently she is at work on bringing to fruition such projects as the multiuse Bloomingdale Trail which follows along an abandoned railroad track and rescuing Northerly Park Island.

“It was part of Daniel Burnham’s Plan of Chicago to have a series of islands,” says Bachrach regarding the

city’s famed architect and planner.

“He wanted to have a series of islands between Jackson and Grant Parks. We’re working to develop it for urban camping and as a place to have scuba diving for shipwrecks.”

Bachrach’s commitment to historic architecture includes the century-old home she shares with her husband. Built in 1908 and owned by one family for more than 90 years, the garden is also vintage, with bearded iris and 30 peonies that she strongly believes date back to the home’s early days.

Her interest in parks doesn’t stop either in her backyard or at the city limits. An admirer of Jensen, she notes that he had very strong ties to the Indiana Dunes and Marquette Park in Miller Beach.

“He was involved in the whole movement to save the dunes, he’d give speeches on conservation and was one of the founders of the Prairie Club,” she says about the organization. “Jens was a very compelling character. He dressed beautifully, he’d wear these ascots and tailored suits—it turns out when you look at the records that several of his clients were haberdashers.”

Chicago Parks Facts lincoln park used to be a cemetery. concerns about it as a health threat helped launch a parks movement in the 1850s and ’60s. the couch tomb still stands near the chicago history museum. the nation’s first field houses were built here in chicago in 1905 to give a clean and healthy space for tenement children to play. sherman park and hamilton park field houses are two examples of the world’s earliest field houses. two world’s fairs have been hosted in our parks. the ice rink at midway plaisance in hyde park is where the original Ferris wheel was during the world’s Fair. the golden lady statue in Jackson park honors the 1893 fair. sheep used to “mow” the lawn in washington park. the sheep meadow is now used for various sports such as baseball and cricket. more than 2,000 acres of parkland were made out of landfill on the lakefront. prior to 1915, the site of the Field museum was actually lake. columbus park has two beautiful rocky waterfalls that feed into a prairie river.

The SouTh Shore’S

Hidden

Architectural Wonders words by Jane ammeson

Back in 1920, Inland steel assembled their first company housing project— winding streets of two story duplexes for middle management employees, foremen and skilled workers in a neighborhood in Indiana Harbor called sunnyside.

PhotograPhy by tony v. martin

» poured cement edison homes in gary

T

he United States Sheet and Tin Plate Company also wanted to provide their workers housing but opted for a more “modern” approach, building formed concrete buildings based upon a style created by inventor Thomas Edison. By 1914, there were some 96 of these edifices.

“They are called Edison Concept homes because there were built using Edison’s developed design,” says Tiffany Tolbert, director of the Indiana Landmarks Northwest Field Office in Hobart.

“However, they are concept [homes] because Edison called for the concrete to be poured in one whole mold for the entire house. The homes in Gary were bored one floor at a time and built in layers.”

Almost a century later, 72 of the Edison homes survive and are part of Gary’s Polk Street Terraces Historic District.

Sunnyside endures as well, as do the wonderful Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, Craftsman and American Foursquare houses lining the perimeter of Washington Park, in Indiana Harbor, which were built in the 1920s for Inland’s upper management.

All are part of the rich blend of architecture easily found in neighborhoods and along country roads in Northwest Indiana.

Frank Lloyd Wright also made his way to the area, building two homes in Gary. » ingwald moe house, gary The 1916 Wynant House at

» candice and bob myers’ home, st. Joseph

benefited from a number of Chicago architects who designed numerous homes and commercial buildings. Not all of them were at the level of Frank Lloyd Wright, but they were notable in their own right.”

Wright also designed three homes in St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, Michigan, two small cities on either side of the St. Joseph River.

“That seems like a lot for two small towns,” says Bob Myers, the museum curator at the History Center at the Court House Square in Berrien Springs, who lives in an 1892 home noted for its ornate side porch and decorative corner roping. His home is located on State Street in downtown St. Joseph’s historic district.

Myers, along with his wife, Candace, also research the history of area homes for their business My Old House.

Mike Wood and Susan Wilczak renovated a century-old Arts and Crafts home with cedar shingles, one of many built on the hills overlooking Lake Michigan in Benton Harbor’s historic Higman Park in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

These types of enclaves of historic gems can be found throughout the area. Myers lists a few of his favorites including an octagonal home in nearby Dowagiac, Michigan.

“Those are very unique,” he says. “They were mildly popular in the 1850s. It’s sort of an eccentric type house. We have a lot of really unusual buildings like that around here as well as homes who have interesting stories.”

The Wood home in Benton Harbor, originally built by William North Bean, is an example of Indiana Landmarks is a that. nonprofit organization that directs resources to “Bean built one of the first electric generating preserve architecturally plants in the state of Michigan, and that’s unique, historically something to say in the state where Edison significant, and communally lived,” says Wood. “He built it in Benton Harbor cherished properties. for lights for his stable and for the Yore Opera House. He also at one point shot a Benton Indiana Landmarks maintains regional offices around the Harbor City Commissioner in the leg in an state, support for grants altercation because the commission wanted to and loans, real estate tear up his tracks.” » more architectural wonders

600 Fillmore was destroyed in a fire, but the 1910 Ingwald Moe House at 669 Van Buren still remains. A later Wright home that survives is the 1939 Andrew F.H. Armstrong House in Ogden Dunes.

“Some of the most well-known architects were George and Phillip Maher who did work in Gary,” says Tolbert. She is an aficionado of early twentieth century architecture, and so enjoys the Horace Mann area of Gary with its Tudor, Spanish and Colonial Revival architecture.

“Edward D. Dart was another well-known architect from Chicago,” she said. “He designed St. Augustine Episcopal Church in Gary as well. In Lowell there are a number of homes designed and built by Claude J. Rumsey—he was more of a builder than architect, but all of his homes have a unique Victorian design.

“Because of the proximity to Chicago, Northwest Indiana

About Indiana Landmarks

59

march/april 2013

projects, leasing projects, and its high-profile “10 Most endangered” annual list.

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ndangered buildings are sometimes in the eyes and beliefs of the beholders. a developer might see a turreted Queen anne style home as a deterrent to a new parking lot, but for tiffany tolbert, the remaining gary historic buildings, some of them in disrepair, are worth saving. school buildings such as emerson and horace mann that have been vacant and are not being maintained or secured make her personal list of endangered buildings. “they are endangered because there does not appear to be a plan to either reuse them or market them for development,” she says. the english tudor style marktown, designed in 1917 by Chicago architect howard van doren shaw as industrial housing, remains in need of preservation and rehabilitation. there is some fear that it is particularly endangered because bP needs the land for expansion. marktown was placed on indiana Landmark’s 10 most endangered Properties List in 2006. indiana Landmarks lists the house of tomorrow in beverly shores on their 10 most endangered buildings of 2012. designed to show visitors to Chicago’s 1933 Century of Progress international exposition what the future home would have—walls of glass, air conditioning, electric eyes to open the garage door, a dishwasher and a bay for the family plane—the edifice was carted across Lake michigan by barge and is now part of the indiana dunes national Lakeshore.

Four other homes from the exposition, including the Cypress Cabin and the Florida tropical home, are also nearby.

Landmarks, which leases the homes from the park, has subleased them to people who have or are renovating them, but the house of tomorrow continues to languish.

» house of tomorrow

» marktown

george rogge of miller beach was a founding member of the society for the restoration of the gary aquatorium and octave Chanute’s Place in history. the organization saved the crumbling gary bathhouse, built in 1921 and closed 50 years later, from demolition. now he is a member of the miller beach Forum which is working to save the miller train station. “i believe it’s the future of gary,” he says. “an inner city railroad is the link. People go to where there’s transportation. the gary stations were the biggest stations to come to and that will happen again if there’s some place nice to come to.”

photography courtesy of [this page, top] CoP_17_0002_00026_005, uniVersiTy of iLLinois aT ChiCago Library, sPeCiaL CoLLeCTions., [below] Library of Congress; [opposite page] M. sPenCer green, aP

Architecture

words by Jane ammeson

?

endAngered

Chi C ago River history flows through

by Kate Van winKle

Before the first skyscrapers or the Second City, Chicago made its home on the frontier’s third coast. Wedged between Lake Michigan and the branches of the Chicago river, Chicago became a city at the crossroads of America.

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People think of Chicago as railroad city or they think of Chicago as the busiest airport in the world, but they don’t necessarily think of us as a water town,” says John Russick, director of curatorial affairs at the Chicago History Museum. “But the water—not just the lake, but the river too—they were critical to our development. You don’t get Chicago without them.”

The Chicago River was little more than a stream at points when Louis Joliet and Pere Jacques Marquette first encountered it in 1673. Today, the river is a major waterway, connecting the Great Lakes to the mighty Mississippi River.

Debate about the fate of the Chicago River with current drought conditions and a potential carp invasion has inspired a resurgence of interest in the river’s unique history. More than 100 years ago, the flow of the river was completely reversed in a monumental feat of engineering.

Originally flowing into Lake Michigan, the river now flows away from the lake and into a series of waterways that lead to the Mississippi River.

“I just think it’s a fascinating story,” says Richard Lanyon, author of Building the Canal to Save Chicago. “Let’s face it—how much do you think about the river? Water is there at the turn of a tap and disappears down the drain and

you don’t think about all the investment and infrastructure.”

According to Lanyon, the idea of altering the flow of the Chicago River first launched or they thinK of in the 1850s by engineer Ellis ChiCago as the Chesbrough. Chesbrough was selected to work on planning the city’s sewer system and realized the need for a larger canal to avert potential flooding and water contamination disasters. , Cholera and typhoid but they don’t epidemics ravaged the city at neCessarily the time as polluted river water thinK of us as flowed into the lake, the source of the city’s drinking water. a .

Over the next 70 years, the Chicago River changed drastically from the small, shallow waterway of the city’s earliest days. Beginning with the opening of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1836, Chicago area rivers were dredged, dammed and straightened to facilitate the shipping industry and sanitation needs of a growing metropolis.

“The reversal of the river generated several things, only one of which was a reliable source of fresh drinking water,” Russick says. “It also answered the question about how do we keep the river at a full capacity so that large boats could go through and get all the way downstream.”

On January 2, 1900, the newly completed Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal filled with water for the first time, incorporating parts of the earlier canal. Following a comprehensive review to ensure that the work was done in accordance with the law, the gates were opened on January 17 and the Chicago River was officially reversed, Lanyon says.

The reversal of the river provided cleaner drinking water and essentially ended the sweeping epidemics that plagued the city.

But today, water quality in the river and connecting waterways is still a concern.

“The major discharger into the Chicago River is the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. They have sewage

railroad city

busiest airport in the world water town

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photography courtesy of [this page] Jeff roberson, aP

PeoPle thinK of ChiCago as

effluent that goes into the river,” says Margaret Frisbie, executive director of Friends of the Chicago River. “In 2011, after many, many years of effort, they agreed that they would start disinfecting the sewage effluent and killing the bacteria that was in that sewage. That’ll be implemented at two of the three plants on the river system by 2014, which is a major victory.”

Today, environmental advocates and water management organizations alike are examining the future of the Chicago River. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ordered the disinfection of the river in 2011 and state and city plans are underway to do just that and make the river clean enough to take a swim.

But with near record low lake levels due to drought, many have even expressed concerns that the river will re-reverse itself naturally. Experts from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and Army Corps of Engineers say that can’t physically happen, but there are still issues to consider.

“The lake level is very low, so what happens when the lake level keeps dropping?” says Lanyon, who worked with the water reclamation district for nearly 50 years and retired as its executive director. “Well we have a problem because the system was designed so the river would be kept below the lake level and now your positions are switched. When you lock a boat, the water goes from the river to the lake. Hopefully, we’ll have a lot of snow and rain and the level will come up.”

This isn’t the first time Chicago has faced severe weather or abnormal events. In 2008, a massive storm dumped more than nine inches of rain on Cook County, according to Lanyon.

Flooding forced the district and the Army Corps of Engineers to discharge stormwater from the river into Lake Michigan for more than three days. Storm water discharges usually happen about once a year during big rains but typically only last about 10 hours.

The city has long been at the mercy of both fire and ice.

Heavy winds and drought conditions, much like today’s, contributed to one of the greatest disasters in Chicago history— the Great Chicago Fire. Though debate continues about whether or not Mrs. O’Leary’s cow is to blame, there is no question that the 1871 fire ranks as the most destructive event in the city’s past.

“Everybody wonders why did the city burn when it’s surrounded by all this water,” Russick says. “The truth of that is really a technological truth. It’s about the limitations of our capacity to pump and draw water from these sources and get it where we wanted it to go. Part of Chicago’s curse is the speed with which it grew. There wasn’t a lot of regulation for building styles or a demand for safe building. There were fire departments, but there weren’t enough. That lack of preparation was demonstrated by the fire.”

“Eventually there is an effort to clean up the river and to prevent people from just wholesale dumping into it, but the legacy of that hundred-year history really still stands here,” Russick says. “We thought about resources as things that were used and used up and then we moved on. So it’s not really surprising. This is the story of lots of rivers and lots of land the world over.”

Out of the ashes, Chicago rebuilt and went on to host the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893, which highlighted the city’s waterfront assets for the world to see. The 20th century brought new technologies, suburban expansion and the rise of skyscrapers. At the center of it all, the Chicago River remained, crisscrossed by historic bridges.

“The river is the lifeblood of the city,” Frisbie says. “It’s a cultural corridor. It’s part of our history, but it just provides a huge amount of opportunity for growth that we’re only starting to explore.”

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McCollum architects also makes a point of leaving a footprint—in a good way—to his client’s projects and neighborhoods. “architects have a responsibility to design ‘in scale’ with the surrounding areas,” says Bill McCollum, owner of McCollum architects. for example, McCollum designed the award winning New Buffalo township Pavilion to blend in with its setting. “a new design should look like it has always been a part of its neighborhood.” “I am thrilled that the Pavilion structure has been used so actively as an entertainment and meeting place.” two recent, very exciting Southwest Michigan projects include the the Stray Dog restaurant and Camp Buffalo Cottages, each demonstrating the unique twists in McCollum’s architecture. throughout the projects, McCollum is fully dedicated to sustainable energy, environmentally friendly buildings, universal design, and low maintenance costs. although he has done plenty of elaborate “green” mechanical systems, he mainly focuses on a well-sealed envelope with sensitive placement of high performance windows as well as careful positioning of the home to reduce the solar gain in the summer and provide supplemental heat in the winter. “Simple and practical green solutions can give you more bang for the buck,” McCollum says.

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lternative energy has come a long way in a short amount of time. Not only has the technology in wind and solar energies advanced so that they are feasible for incorporation in new and existing construction, but the technology is now so affordable that it simply saves money. “at one time, solar or wind energy was only for people who were interested in the environmental movement. today it makes an environmental impact and makes economic sense,” says Kevin Moore, owner and founder of Midwest Wind & Solar.

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Midwest Wind & Solar’s clients have been able to realize sound economic savings both immediately, as well as long term. Moore explains some of the numbers, “for a typical home, the cost for a solar system five years ago was about $35,000 for a 5kW system producing 6,500 kWh per year. today it’s about $17,500. So just in that short period of time the cost of solar has gone down, because more and more people are implementing these systems. the more manufacturers can produce, the more the costs go down. But there is another reason why a system saves money upfront, more than in the past. “all renewable energy projects get 30% back on your taxes and there is no limit on that. as a consumer, if you spend $17,500, that translates to $5,250 back on your taxes, as a rebate, resulting in a final installed cost of $12,250” says Moore. In addition, depending on your location there may be additional grants and incentives available to you. an alternative energy system is an excellent investment. Customers experience better returns than many long-term investments, with up to 200%-plus return on investment over 25 years. Compare this to a five-year CD (average yearly return of 2.5%) or even the S&P 500 (average yearly return of 11%). although some stocks can provide a higher return than a solar system, stock prices are also substantially more volatile year after year. Solar panels carry a 25 year production warranty—now that’s a sound investment. additionally, a system saves money over the long term through energy savings. even though this is a long-term savings, the impact is immediately felt. Customers have dramatically lower electricity bills. In fact, many homeowners experience at least a 50% decrease, and up to the complete elimination of their electrical expenses. Plus, alternative energy systems protect against rising energy costs. It’s not news that electricity costs are on the rise, increasing more than 21% in some areas during the past five years. fossil fuel supplies are dwindling, which means energy costs will continue to grow. With solar, you effectively lock in electrical costs and avoid escalating utility expenses.

Homeowners often undertake home improvement projects to increase the value of their property and while some home

march/april 2013

photography courtesy of asTroPoWer

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For Today

spring Home & garden

“best

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VACATION

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leT Shore Style eXCeed yoUR neXT VACATIon eXPeRIenCe!

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We’ll Take Take Care Care We’ll Of The Rest Of The Rest www.BeOurGuestMI.com • 269.487.9530 269.487.9530 Come Be Be Our Our Guest. www.BeOurGuestMI.com • Come Guest.

ased on Shores’ 30+ year reputation as a top real estate and vacation rental management company, Shores of South Haven, has expanded to offer personalized concierge services.

Shores Vacation rentals and Shore Style marry luxury amenity services with a vacation rental reservation to make for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience!

“Whether it’s arranging beach or pet supplies, delivering groceries, scheduling a photography session for a family photo, providing an on-site caterer, or delivering firewood,” says Sally Newton rental manager for Shores Vacation rentals and Shore Style, “our customers and vacation rental owners expect the very best, and this is just one more way we can exceed their expectations!”

Homeowners are finding out that Shore Style can assist with many of the details related to vacation home ownership like home repairs, off-season property checks and even “opening” or “closing” your vacation rental for the season. Shore Style will offer its rental items and services along the West Michigan Shoreline from shore vacation Hagar Shores to the south rentals/shore style and Saugatuck/Douglas to 269.767.7140. shorestyle.net the north.

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e our Guest offers the ultimate Southwest Michigan experience in vacation home rentals by offering a unique list of services for visitors that goes beyond the typical vacation rental opportunities. their promotional tagline, “Come Be our Guest and we will do the rest” says it all.

Be our Guest helps guests to stay in style and comfort in local homes and provides customized concierge services.

BoG Hospitality Specialists are long-term residents who have strong ties in Southwest Michigan. Guests receive the locals’ perspective when visiting the area.

Unlike other rental services who just hand over the keys, Be our Guest provides first-hand information on local services, restaurants, things to do, and a 24/7 hotline so guests’ stay will be worry and stress free. Be our Guest services are also designed to help individual groups, corporate clients, and event planners. local housing accommodations range be our guest from condominiums and 269.487.9530 family-style houses to lake beourguest.com Michigan estates.

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spring Home & garden

tHe bacH institute

dedICATed To Bach And hIS MUSIC

other academic activities, for the enrichment of communities world-wide. the University Chorale is among the top lutheran collegiate choirs in the United States, upholding the highest standard of choral art through performance of the greatest choral literature of all eras. Dedicated to performing works that celebrate the University’s lutheran heritage, the choir is also noted for the performance of significant contemporary works in their original languages and music expressing multicultural perspectives. the thüringer allgemeine reviewed the Chorale’s concert in 2007: “a first class ensemble … such a high degree of tonal unity, such sure intonation in the most complex and dissonant groups of chords, and such a precise feeling for dynamic shading …” and in 2010 the Schwarzwälder Bote exclaimed, “their heavenly and virtuosic performance enthused the audience.”

Conductor Christopher Cock is Director of the Bach Institute and Professor of Music, holds the Phyllis and richard Duesenberg Chair in lutheran Music, and is Director of Choral and Vocal activities valparaiso at the university. anticipating the university March 23 concert, Cock concluded, “experiencing this work in the iconic 1700 Chapel Dr Chapel of the resurrection at Valpo Valparaiso, Ind. will be an incredible journey for 219.464.5162 every listener.” valpo.edu/bach

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udiences will thrill to a virtuoso performance in March of the unforgettable, moving Mass in B Minor, the seminal opus of Johann Sebastian Bach. one of the most important and celebrated works in the history of western music, the soulstirring composition expresses the spirituality of Christendom across the ages. Under the direction of conductor Christopher M. Cock, the orchestra, Valparaiso University Chorale and Bach Choir will perform Bach’s beloved and inspirational Mass in B Minor on Saturday, March 23, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel of the resurrection at Valparaiso University. this not-to-be-missed program is presented by the university’s Bach Institute, dedicated to preserving, promoting, and performing the compositions of J.S. Bach.

“Bach’s Mass in B Minor is a universal statement of Christian faith that speaks to the essence of our human condition,” said Cock, who is director of the Bach Institute. “Beyond its sublime musical qualities, the Mass in B Minor speaks directly to the human soul, to the full sum of human religious thought and spiritual understanding.” the Bach Institute was established to ensure the legacy of the music and theological perspective of Johann Sebastian Bach for future generations. the Institute explores the life and music of Johann Sebastian Bach from its historic, musical and theological context through faithful and artistic performances, seminars and

New Buffalo

$7,350,000

New Buffalo

$2,150,000

Bridgman

$1,600,000

St. Joseph

$995,000

Harbor Country’s most gracious lakefront estate! Offering every amenity and state-of-the-art security, this 11,000 SF home brings unparalleled elegance to the lakefront lifestyle. Master suite, additional 5 br & 9 ba.

Allegretti designed Lake Michigan Riviera home. Set on a 100 foot parcel overlooking Lake Michigan and set to enjpoy the wonderful sunsets. This very special home has 4 bedrooms with Lake views and 5 ceramic tiled baths.

Private woodsy beach getaway with over 120 ft of beautiful beach, plus 1.29 acres to enjoy all on a private long dead-end street. This cozy cottage has 3 br, 2 ba with multiple decks/patios to capture the lake views.

Majestic Lake Mich views & sunsets from almost every room.

This stunning property features 4 br, 3.5 ba, wood floors, 2 fireplaces, large master suite with steam room, 2 decks facing Lake Michigan with unbeatable views.

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New Buffalo

$629,000

$475,000

New Buffalo

$435,000

New Buffalo

$399,000

Three Rivers

A great 3 br in demand Harbor Pointe Condominium unit. Upgraded kitchen with granite counters. Boat slip & garage. Enjoy Lk Michigan & Galien River Views in New Buffalo.

Easy access to the sandy beach, boat slip or pool.

Gorgeous Contemporary 3000 sf lakefront. This 5 br, 3 ba one-of-akind home handcrafted by Amish builders offers great lake views.

Just 2 hrs to Chicago 45 min to Notre Dame. Corey Lk has over 600 acres of all-sport fun.

Check Out this 3 Bedroom Corner Town House with a 20 x 40 Inground Association Pool across from the Boat Basin and within Easy Walking Dstance of the Beach and all the Down Town Restaurants and Shops.

Enjoy the quiet of Harbor Dunes in this custom built home featuring 5 br, 3 ba, Maple floors on the main level, handscraped Hickory floors in 2 bedrooms and the entire 2nd level. Granite countertops in the open kitchen.

Bert Solski

708-508-3244

Coldwell Banker

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New Buffalo

$349,000

Union Pier

$339,000

La Porte

$299,900

Baroda

$264,500

Orchard Acres is home to this great 4 bedroom, open floor plan home nicely situated on over 1/2 acre just a short walk or bike ride to not just one but two great association beaches - Timber Lane and Gowdy Shores.

Welcome to this 3 br, 2 ba woodsy contemporary cottage in the quiet Hidden Creek development in Union Pier. Close to beaches yet tucked away from it all. This home offers outstanding quality & style at a great price.

Luxury villa overlooking the lush green acres of Briar Leaf Golf Course! This upscale community offers the comfort & convenience of no maintenance living with gorgeous, high-end finishes and airy open spaces you’ll love.

A simply gorgeous 5 acre property in the midst of Wine Country. This immaculate 4 br, 3 ba custom built ranch home was designed for ease and comfort. Sliding glass doors lead from the main living area to a spacious deck.

Coldwell Banker

269-469-3950

Coldwell Banker

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Coldwell Banker

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Coldwell Banker

Union Pier

$189,900

New Buffalo

$149,123

New Buffalo

$129,000

Three Oaks

269-469-3950

$75,000

PRIVATE BEACH RIGHTS! Short walk to Lake Mich beach. A move in ready 2 br, 2 ba Gordon Beach cottage. Fabulous private beach assoc in sought after Union Pier.

Hdwd flr, fplc & parking all in a neat, affordable package.

Cozy 3 bedroom, 2 bath cottage on corner lot in New Buffalo. This home has wood floors, living room with cozy fireplace, kitchen with stainless appliances, and master bedroom with large master bath with Jacuzzi.

Great beach house, located across the street from St. Mary’s and located within walking distance of the beach, town, ice cream and all the shopping. Home is completely renovated. 3 bedrooms with large yard.

Enjoy Magnificent Sunsets from the Deck of this Cozy 2 Bedroom Bungalow located in trendy Three Oaks within walking distance of all the attractions. It’s a ten minute drive to the Lake Michigan Beaches.

Coldwell Banker

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New Buffalo Office | 10. N. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo, MI (269) 469-3950 | (800) 288-7355

Residential bRokeRage

For detailed information on these and other fine properties in Southwest Michigan, Northwest Indiana, Milwaukee and the Chicagoland area, log onto our website:

www.ColdwellBankerOnline.com Any house. Any time. Anywhere.

Call Coldwell banker Home loans for your FRee mortgage pre-approval at (219) 309-1200.

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spring Home & garden

Knowledge is the Difference

Now, more than ever, is the perfect time to take a look at what’s happening in the real estate industry. Reports from Bloomberg, CNN Money, the National Association of Realtors®, and many more continue to show positive signs in the market.

With good news on the horizon, it’s time to invest in your ultimate dream home. The Coldwell Banker Previews International® program has been a world leader in the marketing of luxury homes since 1933. Coldwell Banker not only dominates the local luxury market, but also dominates internationally with approximately 83,000 sales associates in 3,100 offices in 50 countries and territories.

• Luxury-certified, Coldwell Banker Previews Property Specialists participated in more than 13,500 transaction sides of homes priced at $1 million or more in 2011.* • On average, Previews handles $70.1 million in luxury homes sales every day.* • Previews has a track record of being selected to represent some of the world’s most exquisite properties, including 3 out of the 5 priciest homes in the U.S. -Ultimate Homes Magazine • The most expensive celebrity real estate in the U.S. “The Manor” is listed by Coldwell Banker Previews International® at $150 million** So whether you are considering selling or buying a luxury property, turn to Coldwell Banker Previews. Our history, knowledge and experience are the difference.

*Data based on closed and recorded transaction sides of homes sold for $1 million or more as reported by the U.S. Coldwell Banker® franchise system for the calendar year 2011 USD$. **Forbes.com – January 14, 2011

ColdwellBankerOnline.com

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10 N Whittaker Street | New Buffalo, MI 49117 (269) 469-3950

spring Home & garden

special advertising section

orcHard on tHe lake

oWn ThAT

VACATIon feelInG

All Year Long

Y

ou know the feeling. You just wrapped up a wonderful vacation and now you are going through trip withdrawal as you head home to the everyday working world. While there may be a few years left in your working life before the freedom of retirement, how about capturing that vacation feeling every weekend, and living the vacation lifestyle… own that vacation feeling, just a short drive away.

In the rolling hills of Southwest Michigan, a little over an hour’s drive from Chicago, you will find a glistening, private, spring fed lake nestled in a hundred acres of mature forest. thoughtfully placed among the trees, thirty beautiful lakefront sites (only nine still available) take full advantage of the peaceful woods and water vistas. on the edge of the woods, two thousand bountiful apple trees stand in neat orchard rows and are farmed locally to preserve the agricultural heritage of the land. a century old barn (and summer yoga studio), a heated pool and sundeck, a sandy beach, a quiet fishing pier and miles of nature trails support year round activities for the whole family. the experienced on-site builder/developer, Van & Conlon llC, offers quality SHORE_MARAPR_13.pdf

1/29/13

home construction, american farmstead architecture, along with environmentally conscious use of materials that complement and enhance the character and charm of a brand new “vintage style” vacation retreat.

Given the challenges of everyday life, realize that now IS the time to invest in some enjoyable lifestyle improvement. Sip coffee on your deck watching the sunrise, kayak the morning away, pass an afternoon picking apples, enjoy smores over the firepit, laugh away long summer days at the beach…. orchard on the lake, the perfect place to relax and unwind... a vacation close to home.

Why now? this is a unique and exceptional time to buy real estate and own that vacation feeling—INVeSt IN YoUr lIfe! for more information, please contact owner/Developer Megan Van Vlierbergen orchard at 269.695.9100. on the lake orchard on the lake lakefront Homes, Buchanan, Michigan Buchanan, Mich. orchardonthelake.net or youtube.com/ 269.6959.9100 watch?v=lewny1tK5io orchardonthelake.net

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photography courtesy of orChard on The Lake

CY

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spring Home & garden

brigata Hills

eXPeRIenCe

La Dolce Vita In BRIGATA hIllS

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n exclusive true custom home neighborhood just five minutes from Valparaiso’s lively downtown, Brigata Hills offers a lifetime of privacy and distinction. reminiscent of the rolling tuscan hills, the exquisite custom-built luxury homes of Brigata Hills are complimented by an open rural feel, mature trees and impeccable landscape. offering buyers the advantage of selecting their own custom home builder, lots in Brigata Hills average a generous threequarter acre allowing flexibility for your unique home design, including the ability to accommodate walk-out basements on most sites.

Boasting a unique combination of pristine natural woods and peaceful open spaces, Brigata Hills is conveniently located in Center township, with dependable Valparaiso city services and quality Valparaiso schools, including the city’s namesake top-tier university.

Charming and family-focused, Valparaiso is home to a variety of specialty shops, street-side cafes and restaurants with 15

community parks plus a full calendar of special events and seasonal festivals for residents to enjoy. the majestic Indiana Dunes with miles of scenic walking trails are within easy reach, while commuters have easy access to the area’s major roadways, and Chicago is less than an hour away by train. featuring a select group of the area’s finest custom home builders, including preferred builders Sommers Construction, Charlson Custom Homes and Wagner Homes, Brigata Hills is a distinctive enclave for the discerning homeowner. In order to ensure the neighborhood’s architectural integrity, covenants including minimum square footage requirements and builder approval are in place and enforced. the results protect everyone’s investment and are greatly appreciated by all who live in this developing neighborhood. along with stunning new homes that artfully blend old-world craftsmanship with the latest technologies and building materials, Brigata Hills offers some of the most spectacular home sites in all of Valparaiso. that’s why this neighborhood is already looking forward to the addition of four new homes this year. after the previous model quickly sold and closed over the winter, construction of a new model and sales center was started. the next pre-sold home is also currently in the works, with two more set to get brigata hills underway soon. You’ll find the temporary onsite visitor center at 3473 Campania Drive 200 W 500 N open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-4pm.

Valparaiso, Ind. for more information call 219.746.6881 or 219.746.6881 take the online tour at brigatahills.com. brigatahills.com

Brigata Hills is a stunning development nestled within the picturesque countryside of Valparaiso. With rich Tuscan charm emanating throughout, the striking custom-built homes, impeccable landscaping and amenities of Brigata Hills is the perfect place to start anew and celebrate exceptional living.

Sales Center open every Saturday & Sunday 12:00 - 4:00 pm

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200 W 500 N • Valparaiso, IN www.brigatahills.com Sales Center: 219-746-6881

march/april 2013

1% Lot F IN a N CI N g aVa I L ab Le

spring Home & garden

special advertising section

dean’s lawn & landscaPing

MAkInG oUTdooR Dreams Come True foR oVeR TWenTy yeARS

6 visitshoremagazine.com 7

Having a never ending sense of pride in everything from the trucks that pull up in the driveway to the respectful, uniformed craftsman that stay until the job is finished, Savarino says creating a piece of art remains as the centerpiece of his business philosophy. Indeed, it has been this philosophy that has also earned the team to be recognized as a Master Craftsman from Belgard, one of only nine landscaping companies in the United States to receive such an honor.

“In essence, the Master Craftsman designation means that Belgard recognizes these installers for not only being competent, but outstanding at their craft,” explains Jen o’Neill, Vice President of Marketing for Belgard Hardscapes. “a Master Craftsman is an award winning installer with a commitment to continuing education and a commitment to growing business through the innovative products and programs available through Belgard.”

“Homeowners are more educated than ever before regarding the products they would like to use,” adds Savarino, who asks each client to fill out a detailed landscape questionnaire to begin the design process and relies on a 3D computer program during the planning process. “It’s like a good marriage, where you work as a team to create something amazing. I give them the confidence that their dreams will, be indeed, realized.” and while he continues to make others dreams come true, many of Savarino’s dreams are also becoming realized. today, Savarino and his team have built a company that continues to grow and expand via a popular garden center and a thriving commercial business. Savarino says he also plans to create a living showroom off their current office area.

“We envision this as an area where we can feature a number of small garden areas,” explains Savarino, who plans to have the space completed in the next couple of years. “It will be a place where prospective customers can come and truly become inspired and envision what can be done in their outdoor living space.”

Come to find out, others can’t help but notice the fine work of Dean’s lawn dean’s lawn & landscaping. “our project finished & landscaping up in July, and our neighbors began working with Dean and his team in 238 Kennedy ave august,” chuckles abbate. “one can’t Schererville, Ind. help notice when something is done in 219.864.9078 deanslandscaping.com an excellent way.”

photography courtesy of dean’s LaWn and LandsCaPing

O

nce the final Dean’s landscaping truck drove out of the driveway of her Valparaiso home and the breathtaking backyard renovation she had once only dreamed about was complete, homeowner Carol abbate walked onto her freshly laid patio and looked out into the starry night…in disbelief.

“I couldn’t believe it was ours,” recalls abbate of the lakefront home she shares with her husband Paul. “It felt like I was at a hotel or something. It just felt so luxurious and so right. It was more than we could have ever envisioned.”

Indeed, the backyard renovation ended up exceeding the expectations of the couple, who had long considered partaking on the project on their own. Yet, after seeing the work of Dean Savarino and his team at Dean’s lawn & landscaping, the couple says they fell in love with the possibilities of a brand new backyard living area.

“Dean (Savarino) is by far the best contractor we have ever worked with, and we have worked with many throughout the years,” gushes abbate, whose project earned Dean’s landscaping the prestigious Belgard Best in Class award for the second year in row. “Dean’s expertise was amazing, and his personality made you feel as if anything was possible. Plus, he followed up on every single detail of the project. He was here many times throughout the week, just checking to make sure everything was going as planned.

Plus, his workers were not only skilled, but incredibly polite. they did an excellent job.”

“We do every job without the idea of getting an award or being recognized for it,” admits Savarino, President of Dean’s lawn & landscaping.”Yet, I have to admit that having our team recognized for the work they do is much deserved and extremely gratifying for all of us.” for over twenty years, Dean’s lawn & landscaping has served the outdoor scenery needs of clients throughout Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area. Based in Schererville, the company brings an artistic outlook to the idea of landscaping, whether it’s a small enhancement or a large transformation. the talents of the company’s skilled staff of landscape installers and certified chemical application specialists are here to make your landscape dreams a reality.

“It’s always been about going over and beyond what is expected,” says Savarino. “It’s about making the project better than the client has ever envisioned. Not only meet their expectations, but exceed their expectations. the work I do is the footprint I leave on their home, so I pride myself in being as creative as I can be with their space. We also have a reputation of always finishing things properly, often making the stone cuts so clean, it’s as if God placed it there.”

But rest assured. Savarino admits that many of the spaces he and his team work within are far from ideal. “there is nothing that I love more than a challenge,” he explains from his office.

“We recently worked on a project where the previous contractor left the job incomplete and far from finished. once we started though, I began to realize that this site would end up as one of our finest pieces of work. It was transformed into a mini Bellagio. the transformation was incredible.”

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spring Home & garden

STEINER HOMES LTD.

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dISTInCTIon And ChARACTeR ThAT

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sign in february for free granite countertops in your kitchen!

Feels Like Home

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hen you tap the expertise of a great home building team that truly enjoys what they do, you can relax and enjoy the process. from the moment you discover Steiner Homes, meet the staff and see their fabulous new home floor plans, incredible standard features and clear, fair pricing, you’ll know that you’ve found the right builder for the dream home you’ve always wanted.

Starting with tall ceilings and oversized windows throughout the main floor, every Steiner-built home includes handmade exterior columns with details of stone or brick, interior arches and pillars, oversized moldings and trim, solid wood oak flooring plus crown and rope trim detail on all kitchen cabinet. “as a custom builder, we work closely with our clients to create the perfect plan for their new home,” Dave Gring, Director of Sales for Steiner Homes, said. “We always welcome customer plans—nearly 20% of our business is full custom—or we have over 40 floor plans that can be modified as needed. We have some lot inventory and also often build steiner homes ltd. on other sites—subdivisions steinerhomesltd.com or acreage.”

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238 Kennedy Ave. | Schererville, IN | (219) 864-9078 | www.deanslandscaping.com

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Detailed Installation

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Specializing in Hardscape Landscape Design Custom Brick Work

bite & sip

food feaTure

Brewing a

renaissance WordS By rob earnshaw

PhoTogrAPhy By tony v. martin

8 visitshoremagazine.com 7

in gary gary

absence of tVs in the room. “this is social media,” he says. “no televisions—just conversations.”

Fox checked off other breweries and their communities including revolution Brewing and how it has helped to turn around the logan square neighborhood of Chicago.

“What has sustained the craft beer industry is the community,” he says.

Fox’s goal to bring his craft beer to Gary is well under way with Kickstarter, an online crowd-funding site for creative projects. the campaign launched in december with a goal to raise $12,000 by February. it already has, and the money will allow Fox and his small team of associates to start contract brewing at Pipeworks and buy a seven-barrel fermenter and other equipment. extra funds will help in the purchase of a building in Gary. and in the meantime, Fox isn’t just waiting for things to take shape. “at the moment a lot of my time and energy is completing our Kickstarter funding, sourcing equipment and contract brewing which has already started at spiteful Brewing,” Fox says.

“Contract brewing allows us to grow a little more capital towards building a tap room.”

Fox has been scouting locations in the Miller Beach area. “i still have a few more locations to look at, but i have a good idea on a location that would be a perfect fit for us,” Fox says.

Fox says to start a brewery on Pipeworks’ scale costs about $100,000, with an additional $40,000 for a tap room.

“We’re not going to bite off more than we could chew,” he says. “We’ll start small and build capital and build a brewery from the inside out. We can’t do it alone. Community means everything to us.” according to the brewery’s Kickstarter page, “18th street understands that this is going to be an uphill battle from the start...the money raised from Kickstarter will not be enough to build our future brick and mortar brewery. it is enough, however, to have 18th street up and brewing at a trusted contract brewery. once our beer is in drinker’s hands, we have no doubt that we can continue the journey toward our very own facility.”

resident wants to give city the Brewery it deserves

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sabbatical to Belgium, honing a craft in Chicago and an online Kickstarter campaign have led to one man’s dream of becoming part of Gary’s “renaissance.” drew Fox is the founder of 18th street Brewery. He is a brewer at Pipeworks Brewing Co., near the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago where he grew up. 18th street is fully operational—he’s been brewing its beer in small quantities at Pipeworks where it’s been distributed throughout Chicago.

But Fox desires a brick-and-mortar 18th street Brewery and tap room—and he wants it in Gary. if all goes well, people will be enjoying craft beer in the steel City before the end of the year.

“We see a big renaissance in Gary,” Fox says. “We want to be a part of that.”

Besides, according to the 18th street Brewery Kickstarter page, “every community deserves a brewery.”

Fox moved to Gary five years ago from Chicago. it’s where and when he started home brewing after spending three months in Belgium during a sabbatical from his work in restaurant management. it was there, in places like Bruges and Ghent, that Fox fell in love with Belgian beer.

When Fox returned home, which was about the time the craft beer movement was spreading, he couldn’t find beers like those he had tasted in Belgium, so he bought a home brewing kit and began to hone his craft. that led to his current stint as a Pipeworks brewer and his vision to open a brewery in his new hometown.

Fox and his associates intend for the brewery to become a destination for Gary’s residents and visitors alike. He also wants to fully participate in the community around him by providing support and resources for artists and musicians in Gary, as well as focusing on education for Gary’s schools. “apart from the emphasis on growing Gary’s downtown, 18th street is eager to use our beer as a way to invest back into the community of Gary,” Fox says on the brewery’s Kickstarter campaign page. He also hopes to engage and collaborate with other entrepreneurs in northwest indiana.

“Craft beer and breweries build communities,” Fox said recently at Half acre Beer Co.’s new tap room on Chicago’s north side, where he talked shop and drank craft beer with fellow brewers. He pointed out the

bite & sip lighthouse restaurant

7501 constitution ave, cedar lake 219.374.9283. cedarlakelighthouse.com Stunning water views through floor-to-ceiling windows are perfect for sunset aficionados and are just one more reason to stop at this restaurant nestled on the eastern shoreline of Cedar Lake. Executive Chef Ken McRae draws upon his 25 years of culinary experience in creating a menu with such signature dishes as steaks—offered blackened or Cajun style upon request and served at a sizzling 500 degrees for the ultimate in flavor—plus lake perch and Chilean sea bass. For more casual fare, offerings include burgers, salads and pastas.

There’s an emphasis on local products from nearby farms and ice cream from Fair Oaks Dairy Farm. Bottles of wine are half price on No Whine Wednesdays.

Indiana BaRTleTT’s GouRMeT GRill & TaVeRn 131 E Dunes Hwy 12, Beverly Shores. 219.879.3081. eatatbartletts.com. Bartlett’s is a gourmet grill by husband-and-wife team Gary Sanders and Nicole Bissonnette-Sanders. located in the heart of the National lakeshore, Bartlett’s has a cozy but very modern ambience. the menu is an exceptionally creative take on upscale roadhouse-type food. Starting off the meal are appetizers such as andouille sausage corndogs and surf & turf potstickers, as well as family style offerings like low Country spiced boiled peanuts and smoked venison sticks. entrées include 5-hour pot roast, whitefish fillet and linguine bolognese, ranging in price from $10 to $20. the wine list is modest but well-crafted.

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BisTRo 157 157 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.462.0992. bistro157.net. trained in Paris at le Cordon Bleu, chef and owner Nicole Bissonnette-Sanders has created a menu of classics—like a decadent sautéed veal and gulf shrimp, a pork rib chop with apple horseradish ham, and an herb-rubbed roasted half chicken—combined with her own creative takes on nouvelle cuisine with a number of fresh fish selections. Desserts include black chocolate-infused confections that have become standard for fine dining, and also sorbets and ice cream made from fresh fruit. there are some treasures on the extensive list of bottle wines, and many solid choices by the glass.

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 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 take-out available.

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 well-known 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.

GaMBa RisToRanTe 455 E 84th Ave, Merrillville. 219.736.5000. gambaristorante.com. the former owners of the Venezia Bar & Grill and Venezia Café, Benito and Hilda Gamba, have combined their efforts into the grand Gamba ristorante. located in Merrillville, this restaurant is housed in an architectural masterpiece, which is hard to miss with its circular design and copper roof.

Modeled after upscale restaurants in exotic european locations, the menu offers classic Italian cuisine. the risotto alla Milanese features arborio rice with saffron, “just like in Milan,” and the wine room boasts storage space for 1,000 bottles. a banquet hall holds up to 200 people and looks out onto an open courtyard.

GauCHo’s 597 US Hwy 30, Valparaiso. 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,

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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7p

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Includes one freshly rolled Nicaraguan Cigar, plus a CAO Caramel Macchiato, as well as an open beverage package featuring Glenlivet 12 & Tuaca Light appetizer buffet included.

Host & Nationally Renowned Cigar Roller - John Kacur Jr. Limited Admission • For reservations call 219-769-4466 *A heated outdoor smoking area will be provided

Gino’s Steakhouse Merrillville • 600 E. Lincoln Highway • Merrillville • 219-769-4466

Gino’s Merrillville - April 21, 2013 Reservations 219-769-4466 Gino’s Dyer - April 28, 2013 Reservations 219-865-3854

Cazadores Tequila & Cachaca Dinner $45 per person

Guests will receive flights of Cazadores Tequila (Blanco, Resposado, Anejo) & Cachaca paired with Mexican and Brazilian appetizers including mini steak tacos, cheese and chorizo quesadillas, potato flautas, civeche & smoked sausage with cheese.

Each guest will receive a gift

bite & sip 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.

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 fullservice 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 multicourse 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.

JaCk Binion’s sTeak House aT HoRsesHoe Casino 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond.

866.711.7027. horseshoehammond.com. the Horseshoe facility, a slice of las Vegas on lake Michigan, prides itself on customer service and consistently ranks first in every category, including fine dining. the tiered tables and luxurious booths at Jack Binion’s overlook an expansive, panoramic lake view, where the impeccably attired waitstaff helps you choose between the australian lobster, pan-seared sea scallops and rich thick filets that just make you wonder if Dr. atkins would really be all right with this. Pick the decadent cheesecake for dessert if you want the best of everything. It is more fun, though, to opt for a post-dinner cocktail and go play. entrées are $35 on average.

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kellY’s TaBle 5 7 2 7 N 6 0 0 W, M i c h i g a n C i t y.

219.872.5624. kellyscreekwood.com. tucked away amidst 30 acres of woodland, the Creekwood Inn, built in the 1930s as a second home, is a delightful spot for those wanting to get away. But you don’t have to spend the night to enjoy a great repast at Kelly’s table, located inside the inn. It’s here that chef/proprietor Patricia Kelly Molden creates a seasonal menu using the local bounty of the neighboring farms and

orchards. recent appetizer offerings include a rich onion Soup Savoyarde with egg yolks and cream, topped with Gruyère toast as well as crabmeat and artichoke-stuffed mushrooms. entrées range from the simple but delicious chicken tetrazzini to grilled cumin-crusted tuna with a mango habanero salsa, and rabbit braised in wine and served with summer vegetables. fresh pumpkin custard—topped with whipped cream and flavored with Grand Marnier and crystallized ginger—and chocolate mousse served in chocolate tulip cups accompanied by a berry sauce are among Molden’s to-die-for desserts. for cocktails, consider Kelly’s table Cosmopolitan: a delightful concoction of absolut Citron, triple Sec, Chambord, lime and cranberry or a capirinha made with Brazilian cachaça, fresh limes and turbinado sugar. liGHTHouse ResTauRanT 7501 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake.

219.374.9283. cedarlakelighthouse.com.

Stunning water views through floor-toceiling windows are perfect for sunset aficionados and are just one more reason to stop at this restaurant nestled on the eastern shoreline of Cedar lake. executive Chef Ken Mcrae draws upon his 25 years of culinary experience in creating a menu with such signature dishes as steaks—offered blackened or Cajun style upon request and served at a sizzling 500 degrees for the ultimate in flavor—plus lake perch and Chilean sea bass. for more casual fare, offerings include burgers, salads and pastas. there’s an emphasis on local products from nearby farms and ice cream from fair oaks Dairy farm. Bottles of wine are half price on No Whine Wednesdays. 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. 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.

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 buildyour-own-plate 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.

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. 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, 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.

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. Be sure to check out the last Wednesday of the month sushi menu for such delights as seaweed salad with sesame dressing, shrimp tempura, avocado and cucumber with wasabi topikiko—as well as the choice of sakes. reservations are always helpful, especially on the weekends.

CoPPeR RoCk 11111 Wilson Rd.,New Buffalo.

866.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com/dining/ copperrock.asp. a meat lover’s delight, this upscale restaurant features Midwestern USDa Prime steaks aged for 42 days in their Himalayan Salt Brick locker as well as a nice selection of seafood including cold water lobster, fresh seasonal oysters, crab cakes, king crab legs and colossal shrimp. for serious carnivores, there’s the 55-day dry-aged 26-ounces bone-in rib eye while oenophiles will love the 450 selections of wine by the bottle or 40 selections by the glass. Must try sides are the truffled lobster mac ‘n cheese made with aged white cheddar and truffle cheese sauce, cavatappi noodles and chunks of lobster meat and the Copper rock Cheesy fries—giant fried potato wedges smothered in truffle cheese sauce, crispy pancetta lardons and scallions. the Copper Classic Dinners offer a threecourse selection of starters, entrees and desserts from a list including such selections as a grilled Kurobuta pork chop with apples, caramelized onions and mashed sweet potato, roasted chicken breast stuffed with king crab meat accompanied with asparagus, demi-glace and Hollandaise sauces, and chocolate mousse dome and crème brulèe.

THe GRille aT HaRBoR sHoRes 4 0 0 K l o c k R d , B e n t o n H a r b o r.

269.932.4653. harborshoreslife.com/grill. the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed 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.

HaRD RoCk CaFe, Four winds 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo.

800.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com/dining/ hard_rock_cafe.asp. Hard rock’s energy pulsates in perfect synergy with four Winds, making it a must stop for those who thrive on live entertainment, late night dining options, rock and rock memorabilia (nobody does it better than Hard rock Cafe) and well prepared american style food while staying close to the casino action. adjacent to the gaming area, the two level, 12,000 sq. ft.

Hard rock features seating for 275, live entertainment and, of course, a large gift shop area. Beyond their legendary Burgers like the 10 ouncer topped with seasoned bacon, Cheddar cheese, crisp fried onion ring, lettuce, tomato and pickles, there’s

san CHeZ and MeZZe CaFÉ 38 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids. San Chez: 616.774.8272. sanchezbistro.com.

Mezze Café: 616.776.6950. the wildly popular purveyor of MediterraneanMoroccan cuisine is conveniently situated downtown and is the most recommended destination café in Grand rapids. It opens as a café in the morning with a complete menu of coffee drinks and a fresh pastry selection, including a Moroccan almond honey cinnamon phyllo roll glazed with orange honey syrup. Combinations and small plates average $8-$10, and the servers recommend that you try two to three of each, but tables of four or more people are common, and everyone shares everything. reservations are not accepted but no one seems to mind a short wait, especially when accompanied by a pitcher of housemade Sangria. siX.one.siX at Jw MaRRioTT HoTel 235 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. But the extras make the entire experience so memorable: the perfect martini with a choice of olives; spiced butter and cheese selections served with a variety of fresh-baked crackers and breads; a cheese plate presented with separate garnishes for each type and slice; and housemade desserts, including a thick, rich and dense crème brûlée in multiple flavors. even the coffee is a treat, especially when complemented by an aged Porto. the architecture, spacious interior design, orchestrated and technically perfect lighting, and impeccable service combine to create an atmosphere that enhances the experience. entrées average $25-$35. the specialty drink (the bar features a wall of blue Skyy Vodka bottles) and the wine list, like the menu, are high-quality and carefully chosen. 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.

wilD DoG GRille 24 Center St, Douglas. 269.857.2519. thewilddoggrille.com. Sam Kendall, co-owner of the Wild Dog Grille, says their Italian-inspired cuisine, with a newage twist, has been delighting the public ever since they opened their doors in June 2007. Start out with fresh spring rolls stuffed with crab meat and wrapped in a thin rice paper, or try the crab cake served with three dollops of Creole rémoulade for a flavor enhancement. another tasty option is the pesto spinach cheese dip served with flat breads fired fresh in the stone oven. their trademark stone oven pizzas are fired in the best stone oven on the market for an old-world, thincrust flavor. fresh-cut steaks, such as the popular filet mignon and New York strip, are exceptional. finish the meal with a vanilla panna cotta made from scratch from the chef’s family recipe, the oregon berry cobbler or a Key lime tart. the restaurant has a liquor license, and the owners pride themselves on offering a laid-back atmosphere with the quality of high-end restaurants. Prices go up to $25.95 for the filet mignon, with most selections under $20.

Best B&B NW IN - TIMES newspaper readers Best Business Retreat NW IN Business magazine Featured on ABC Chicago TV’s 190-N

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Wild Game $48

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Sunday, March 10

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RESERVATIONS PLEASE

Per Person OVEr

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dIFFErEnt dIShES

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 80 River Oaks Center, Calumet City.

708.862.3438. 1669 Sibley Blvd, Calumet City. 708.868.0560. 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.

www.ciaobellaonline.com

Sunday, February 24th

$69 per person (Plus Tax & Gratuity)

Red Carpet Greeting

starting at 6pm with a glass of Moionetto Prosecco

Menu for the Stars includes:

Express Lunch 11am-2:30pm ~ $9.95 All You Can Eat Buffet Monday, Wednesday & Friday Create Your Own Pasta Tuesday and Thursday

MERYL STREEP’S CHILLED SHRIMP JACK NICHOLSON’S CHILI - 3 Bean Chili AL PACINO’S PORK BELLY MARLON BRANDO’S BEEF BRISKET ELIZABETH TAYLOR’S STUFFED STRAWBERRIES

All paired with a different wine!

CAll now foR ReSeRvATionS

1514 U.S. 41, Schererville, IN 219.322.6800 For more restaurant listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com.

M-Th 11am-10pm | f-Sat 11am-11pm | Sun 11am-10pm

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TaBoR Hill wineRY & ResTauRanT 1 8 5 M t . Ta b o r R d , B u c h a n a n .

800.283.3363. taborhill.com. tabor Hill Winery’s restaurant is all at once elegant, urbane and semi-casual. 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

3158 S. St. Rd. 2 Valparaiso, IN 866-761-3753

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.

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grilled salmon, smokehouse offerings like BBQ ribs and chicken as well as smoked pulled pork, a weekend breakfast buffet and happy hour. the kids’ menu features crispy chicken drum sticks tossed in their signature sweet Hickory BBQ Sauce, hot dogs and oven roasted chicken salad. for dessert, make the hard choice between such sweets as chocolate mousse, strawberry cheesecake, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and chocolate peanut butter pie.

house&

GROUNDS

luxury minimalist

WorDS BY JaNe aMMeSoN // PHotoGraPHY BY toNY V. MartIN

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a member of the Mies van der rohe Society, George rogge adhered to the architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy when he began designing his Miller Beach homeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a modernist three-story linear house with floor to 12-feet ceiling to floor sheaths of glass providing panoramic views of lake Michigan and the surrounding area.

12-foot high floor to ceiling windows, angles and ruler straight lines are part of the modernistic approach favored by architect Mies van der Rohe, whose architectural philosophy influenced the couple when building their home.

Describing the views as â&#x20AC;&#x153;overpowering,â&#x20AC;? the RutsenRogge house is nestled on the highest dune in the Miller Beach area. Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape can be seen from all four sides of the house.

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like van der rohe, who is considered one of the premiere 20th century architects, rogge favors sleek minimalism, clear lines, spare use of color and open unornamented spaces emphasizing the concept of “less is more”. “the overall theme of the house is controlled space, but totally outside,” says rogge. “the idea of the house is that there’s no color in the house, as there’s color outside.” rogge, president of the George C. rogge agency, followed the family tradition not only in working in the multi-generational insurance company, but also in his love of architecture. He and his father used to work on drawing projects together, and he still has his father’s award winning construction grade drawings that he completed in high school. and so once he had obtained the land that would one day hold his home, he and his girlfriend Sue rutsen talked to builder Pat lee, who put them in touch with architect Marlo tess Berg of Design House Studio.

“She had done some of the houses down the street and Pat said she would be good to work with as she listens to people,” recalls rogge. ”I didn’t want someone to design the home. I had already done that.

I wanted it to be drawn for construction.”

Rutsen and Rogge Working with Berg, lee and Howard lund, used a muted palette an architect and designer who specializes in of colors and metallic bathrooms and kitchens, rogge and rutsen finishes for their home which further created a stunning home. Stairways are emphasizes the sleek bounded by glass, not wood or metal, with the stylish design. Small effect of creating a seemingly floating floor. the accent pieces add 28-foot long, two-inch thick bar was cast in a touch of brighter sand by a manufacturer in Canada, giving it the colors. An avid book collector since he appearance of sand over water. Carrera marble was a child, Rogge’s was used for countertops. library contains the 12-foot windows had to be made in many of his favorite Germany because no U.S manufacturer makes volumes including residential glass in that size. Despite the extra those on landscape effort, the impact on the house’s design was and architectural design. The sparse, worth it. minimalistic décor “It’s very powerful,” says rogge about the emphasizes rather view. “You’re on the highest dune overlooking than distracts from [the lake]. You don’t have to peek out a the beauty of their window because everything is glass. You home but attention can stand anywhere on the second or third was paid to every detail. Despite the flood and have a view of north, south, east many windows and and west.” howling winds off the Despite the home’s size and the buffeting it lake during stormy takes from winds blowing off the lake, there’s weather, the house is no loss of energy. “green” and designed to be LEED certified. “only 2% of the UV rays can come through the windows,” says rogge. “I have a heat gun and there’s no difference in temperature between the window and the walls.”

Built to leadership in energy and environmental Design standards, rogge’s home is a leeD Silver Home. the house also features two-flush toilets, HVaC and lighting, including the 84 leD lights on the third floor that can be controlled from anywhere by computer. a book collector since he was young—rogge says he has three houses full of non-fiction books about a variety of subjects including business, architecture, politics and the mafia—he now has a library for his tomes.

He also has many books on landscape architecture, and copied famed landscaper Jens Jensen’s designs like the Columbus Park waterfall to incorporate into his yard.

When rogge first sketched the house, he drew a library with an opening in the floor with views below, and even with all the collaborative efforts, much of what he originally visualized remains. “one of the neat things,” says rogge, “is that I still have a library with a hole in the floor.”

shore things 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 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.

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. 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

linDal CeDaR HoMes 23160 W M 43, Kalamazoo. 269.668.3332. lindal. com. this top-volume dealership works thoroughly with each client in every stage of the home-building process, including planning, design, site evaluations and builder assistance. top-quality cedar is the highlight in lindal’s custom homes.

MC ColluM aRCHiTeCTs 6109 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

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-squarefoot showroom at the Beach House 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, preowned furniture known as like New. FenkeR’s HoMe FuRnisHinGs anD GiFTs 1114 Lincolnway, LaPorte, Ind. 219.362.3538. at fenker’s Home 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

fiLe PhoTo

The information presented in shore Things is accurate as of press time, but readers are encouraged to call ahead to verify the listing information.

HoMenClaTuRe 1948 45th Ave, Munster. 219.697.2548. myhomenclature.com. this furniture store’s ever-changing high quality inventory includes new and gently used home furnishings-complete living room sets, armoires, footstools, candlesticks and more-and original one-of-a-kind décor. Homenclature offers a range of styles from traditional, modern and contemporary to retro and eclectic. 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. 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.

MC inTeRioRs 1102 Franklin St, Michigan City.

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.

Michigan

BaYBeRRY CoTTaGe 510 Phoenix St., South Haven.

269.639.9615. bayberrycottage.com. 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.

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.

HaRBoR Town inTeRioRs 613 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.7774. harbortowninteriors.com. Harbor town Interiors offers home décor items such as

ReD aRRow GalleRY 13648 Red Arrow Hwy, Harbert.

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-a-kind 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.

drive Indiana

aRnell CHeVRoleT 2 3 9 M e l t o n R d , B u r n s H a r b o r.

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.

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Cottage & Lakefront Living Show - Grand Rapids™ DeVos Place

MARCH 15-17, 2013 www.GRCottageShow.com

B&e MaRine 31 Lake Shore Dr, Michigan City.

888.603.2628. bemarine.com. this family-owned and -operated boat storeslash-marina 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.

DoRMan GaRaGe, inC 1317 Lake St, LaPorte. 219.324.7646. d o r m a n g a r a g e . c o m . W i t h m o re 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. leXus oF MeRRillVille 3957 US Hwy 30, Merrillville.

219.769.4545. lexusofmerrillville.com.

Sponsored in part by

march/april 2013

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.

furniture, mattresses, bed coverings, rugs, and home accessories. Gift items and full service design consultation are available.

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available with friendly and helpful advice and recommendations.

shore things lexus vehicles and customer-service focused sales teams can be found at this dealership, which features new and preowned 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

BaRk & Meow 108 Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.477.3600. for nearly six years, this pet accessory boutique has featured clothing and toys for dogs and cats. Bark & Meow also carries a large selection of treats like bacon cheese balls, tuna sticks, bagels and, of course, the almighty dog bone.

CoPPeR BuTTeRFlY 120 S Main St, Crown Point. 219.663.1506. this contemporary boutique features a large selection of franz porcelain and jewelry, along with original art, interior accents and custom florals. Millicent and Maruca fine Handbags and fragrances by elizabeth W. and Hill House are other popular items. 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

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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.

Illinois

and treatments, such as minimally-invasive sinus treatments, in-office Ct Scanning, balloon sinuplasty, and allergy testing to accurately diagnose and quickly treat patients.

HoMewooD FloRisT 18064 Martin Ave, Homewood.

708.798.0326. homewoodflorist.com.

Serving the Chicago area for more than 40 years, this full-service florist offers friendly and prompt service. Homewood florist boasts a large inventory of fresh flowers and also specializes in tropicals, plants, european gardens, high-style floral, silk and dried arrangements, and gourmet and fruit baskets.

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.

eat

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.

Indiana

FaiR oaks FaRM 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.

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.

Michigan

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, Illinois.

heal 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

FRanCisCan PHYsiCians HosPiTal 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. oBsTeTRiCal & GYneColoGiCal assoCiaTes, inC 1101 E Glendale Blvd, Ste 102, Valparaiso.

877.462.6249. weunderstandwomen. com. the board-certified

obstetrician-gynecologists—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.

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 150E, Chesterton.

219.926.7755. porterhealth.org. the new Porter regional Hospital is a five-story 430,000-square-foot 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 1 5 0 0 S L a k e P a r k Av e , H o b a r t .

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 same-day results, acute care rehabilitation, functional/ integrative medicine, heart valve institute, and multiple outpatient facilities throughout lake and Porter counties.

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.

invest 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.

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. souRCe one Real esTaTe 855 E North St, Crown Point. 219.662.5445. source1re.com. this 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.

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.

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

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 with low-impact land development, thus preserving and enhancing the existing natural landscape.

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

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.

ReVeRie sPa ReTReaT 3634 N 700 W, LaPorte. 219.861.0814. spareverie.com. located on more than fifty acres of deep woodlands, this spa retreat offers an imaginative menu of personal luxury care which includes facials, massage therapy, reflexology, botanical treatments, envelopments and azulene waxings. there are four guest rooms blending calming asian and classically antique influences and a dining room, which serves twentysix people vegetables from the garden and other goodies. 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.

Casa Del RoMa 7 1 2 C a l u m e t A v e , Va l p a r a i s o .

219.465.0478. casadelroma.com. this fullservice banquet facility offers a wedding chapel, catering services for up to 700 people, and a quaint Italian ambience. there are five banquet rooms from which to choose, to accommodate any size and style of wedding.

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-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor brick terrace.

FReD asTaiRe ValPaRaiso BallRooM 2759 W. Morthland Dr. Valparaiso, Ind. 219.242.8643. fredastairevalparaiso.com. the fred astaire Valparaiso Ballroom is the only fred astaire franchised Dance Studio in Northwest Indiana, with the largest ballroom floor in NWI. for those looking for ballroom lessons, ballroom groups, or

ballroom parties or socials, fred astaire Valparasio Ballroom is the best selection. their instructors have years of experience and continue their training and education throughout the year. 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.

CasTle FaRMs 5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix.

231.237.0884. castlefarms.com. this historic venue, known for its unique charm, elegant décor and outstanding customer service, boasts spectacular architecture, stunning outdoor courtyards, lush gardens and more. Couples can choose from six beautiful rooms, all with views of the gardens and courtyards. Capacity: Up to 500.

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-of-the-art hotel, luxury spa and convention center. Dining options include It’s Vegas Baby! and the Game, along with the fine-dining 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.

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

march/april 2013

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.

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.

91

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.

shore things jackpots and a large selection of table games including blackjack, craps and 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.

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.

stay

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.

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.

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.

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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-year-old 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.

Jw MaRRioTT 235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids.

888.844.5947. ilovethejw.com. Grand rapids’ newest attraction is the luxury

visit Indiana

THe BaCH insTiTuTe aT ValPaRaiso uniVeRsiTY Center for the Arts, 2510. 1709 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso. 219.464.5073. valpo.edu/bach. the institute was established to ensure the legacy of the music and theological perspective of Johann Sebastian Bach for future generations. the Institute explores the life and music of Johann Sebastian Bach from its proper historic, musical and theological context through faithful and artistic performances, seminars and other academic activities. 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.

Michigan

FeRnwooD BoTaniCal GaRDen & naTuRe PReseRVe 3988 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

wear Indiana

alBeRT’s DiaMonD JeweleRs 711 Main St, Schererville. 219.322.2700. albertsjewelers.com. Besides the fact that albert’s showcases 5,000 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 tacori, Bulgari, Cartier and Bez ambar, and the store’s entire back wall is devoted to bridal jewelry and accessories. 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 one-stop shop for all bridal needs, including gowns, jewelry and invitations. 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.

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.

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. 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.

For more business listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com

nwi.com

Your Automotive Source for Northwest Indiana

Locate Auto Dealers with Ease, in NW Indiana & Chicagoland AcurA joe riza acura • 3 8150 West 159th Street Orland Park, IL 60462 708-403-7770 acura.rizzacars.com

smiTh chevroleT - hammond • 37 6405 Indianapolis Blvd., Hammond, IN 219-845-4000 • www.smithautogroupusa.com

webb ford • 71 9809 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 888-869-8822 • www.webbford.com

smiTh chevroleT - lowell • 7 700 W. Commerical, Lowell, IN 219-696-8931 • www.smithautogroupusa.com

GMc

MiTSuBiSHi

circle gmc • 65 2440 45th Street, Highland, IN IN 219-865-4400 • IL 773-221-8124 www.circleautomotive.com

nielsen miTsubishi • 22 5020 U.S. Highway 6, Portage, IN 888-503-4110 • www.nielsenmitsubishi.com

muller acura of merrillville • 8 3301 W. Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 219-472-7000 mulleracuraofmerrillville.com

Team chevroleT • 48 1856 W. U.S. 30, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-1175 • www.teamchevyinc.com

Audi

cHrYSLEr

Team audi • 50 3990 E. RT 30, Merrillville, IN (One mile east of the mall) 888-805-3689 • www.teamvwaudi.com

bobb auTo group - chrysler • 15 11009 West 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 219-374-7171 • www.bobbcars.com

BuicK

griegers chrysler • 5 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 • www.griegersmotors.com

circle buick • 65 2440 45th Street, Highland, IN IN 219-865-4400 • IL 773-221-8124 www.circleautomotive.com

souThlake nissan • 34 Rt. 30, 1 Mile E. of I-65, Merrillville, IN 888-471-1241 • www.southlakeautomall.com

HONdA

rAM

Team honda • 51 4613 East Rt. 30, Merrillville, IN 219-947-3900 • www.teamhondaon30.com

bobb auTo group - ram • 19 11009 West 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 219-374-7171 • www.bobbcars.com

dOdGE

HYuNdAi

SuBAru

webb hyundai • 45 9236 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 219-923-2277 • www.webbhyundai.com

nielsen subaru • 22 5020 U.S. Highway 6, Portage, IN 888-503-4110 • www.nielsen.subaru.com

JEEP

TOYOTA

bobb auTo group - jeep • 17 11009 West 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 219-374-7171 • www.bobbcars.com

lake shore ToyoTa • 21 244 Melton Rd. (US 20 @ I-94), exit 22A Burns Harbor, IN • 219-787-8600 www.lakeshoretoyota.com

bobb auTo group - dodge • 16 11009 West 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 219-374-7171 • www.bobbcars.com

cAdiLLAc schepel cadillac • 13 2929 W. Lincolnway Hwy. (Rt. 30), Merrillville, IN 219-738-1900 • www.schepelcadillac.com

griegers dodge • 5 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 • www.griegersmotors.com

cHEVrOLET

griegers jeep • 5 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 • www.griegersmotors.com

Thomas dodge • 11 9604 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 219-924-6100 • www.thomasautogroup.com

arnell chevroleT • 14 U.S 20 & I-94, Burns Harbor, IN 855-471-3767 • www.arnellmotors.com

VOLKSwAGEN

arnell kia • 14 I-94 AutoMall, Hey. 20 & I-94, Burns Harbor, IN 855-471-3767 • www.arnellmotors.com

smiTh ford • 36 1777 E. Commercial, Lowell, IN 219-769-1090 • www.smithautogroupusa.com

ridgeway chevroleT • 1 17730 Torrence Ave, Lansing, IL 60438 708-474-4990 • www.ridgewaychevy.com

ToyoTa on 30 • 46 4450 E. RT 30, Merrillville, IN 219-947-3325 • www.toyotaon30.com

KiA

lake shore ford • 20 244 Melton Rd. (US 20 @ I-94), exit 22A Burns Harbor, IN • 219-787-8600 www.lakeshoreford.com

mike anderson chevroleT • 4 The Chevy Giant on I-65 I-65 and 61st Avenue, Merrillville, IN 2219-947-4151 • www.mikeandersonchevy.com

Team ToyoTa • 44 9601 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 219-924-8100 • www.teamtoyota2000.com

Thomas jeep • 11 9604 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 219-924-6100 • www.thomasautogroup.com

FOrd

chrisTenson chevroleT • 2 9700 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 888-999-9141 • www.christensonchevy.com

NiSSAN

schepel gmc • 18 3209 W. Lincolnway Hwy. (Rt. 30), Merrillville, IN 219-769-6381 www.schepel.com

Thomas chrysler • 11 9604 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 219-924-6100 • www.thomasautogroup.com

schepel buick • 10 3209 W. Lincolnway Hwy. (Rt. 30), Merrillville, IN 219-769-6381 www.schepel.com

Thomas kia • 16 9825 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 219-934-2266 • www.thomasautogroup.com

souThlake kia • 34 Rt. 30, 1 mi. East of I-65, Merrillville, IN 888-478-7178 • www.southlakeautomall.com

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2

Team volkswagen • 50 3990 E. RT 30, Merrillville, IN (One mile east of the mall) 888-805-3689 • www.teamvwaudi.com

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ContaCt your times’ media Consultant to feature your business in the 4 times auto direCtory

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PORTAGE

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CROWN POINT • (219) 662-5300 MUNSTER • (219) 933-3200 5 poRTagE • (219) 762-1397 VaLpaRaISo • (219) 462-5151

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shorecast predictions by fran smith

For more astrological advice, be sure to check out Fran smith’s smith’s regular blog on visitshoremagazine.com.

radio host Ira GlaSS

[pisces] feBrUarY 19MarCH 20 key Words in March: Center stage. This is where you should be—in full view. only by being visible can you handle those important situations.

Maintain your quietly glamorous style, knowing that you alone have all the facts. sidesTeP secrecy when it works against a special relationship. key Word in april: arithmetic. simplicity in handling your finances works. sort through all bills, statements, and future expenses. add a list of calls to make. and then, go into action. you’ll have begun your fiscal new year beautifully. sidesTeP a disregard for detail.

KEY WORDS in April: Confidential Matters. Your unrelenting desire to succeed is the strongest part of you. Go about gathering facts and figures, for a new undertaking has appeared on your radar screen.

Investigate it! SIDESTEP not being involved in situations that are vital. [gemini] MaY 21-June 20 KEY WORDS in March: The Summit. Maintaining selfdiscipline, clarity, and focus are a must. Never easy, these three elements plus interest (you’ve got to really want this objective) will take you to the top of the mountain. Side trips not advised. SIDESTEP disagreements and debates.

KEY WORDS in April: An Amazing New Objective.

Circumstances are such that this particular thing, person, or place stand a real chance of coming into existence. Let the murkiness dissolve, as you advance with enthusiasm.

SIDESTEP confusing conditions of any kind. [cancer] June 21-JulY 22 KEY WORDS in March: People, Plans, and Projects—near and at a distance. This is a favorable cycle for you, as you act and react to the foibles of others. Take the high road in all that you do and say. It’s the best route. SIDESTEP an abrupt withdrawal from an ongoing relationship.

KEY WORDS in April: Career, Gain and Advancement.

Now your career, your working environment, and your financial resources are finally well defined. However, this isn’t a time to languish or dawdle. Get right back out there and Sell! Sell! Sell! SIDESTEP your brand of arrogance.

actress JeNNIfer MorrISoN

[aries] MarCH 21aPrIl 20 key Words in March: Luminous silence. This is the right time to review, research, and create new strategies that will promote you and your work. although you may call and consult others, much can be accomplished in the divine light of seclusion. sidesTeP being completely unavailable.

4 visitshoremagazine.com 9

key Words in april: The good start. don’t try to think outside the box. instead, stop struggling, stop lamenting, above all, stop worrying about the future. Just allow your great ideas and brilliant plans to surface. and take action on those. now! sidesTeP keeping too low a profile.

[leo] JulY 23-auGust 22 KEY WORDS in March: Hidden Resources. Know that they exist. Impress others with your knowledge, style, and sense of the right moment. Above all, listen to your own superb intuition. Then, follow it closely. Financial backup can be secured. SIDESTEP ignoring the urgency of certain issues.

Key Words in April: At A Distance. You’re in a zone where what you think, say, or do must be ahead of the curve— setting the trend that others follow. Applies to plans and travel plus! ideas, calls, and meetings. Let your own confidence now be your guide. SIDESTEP not going for it! [virgo] auGust 23-sePteMBer 22 KEY WORDS in March: In Agreement. As you decide who and what means the most to you, stay in the mainstream of calls, e-mails, and meetings. The aim is the creation of a new alliance which blends with your current lifestyle. SIDESTEP being uncertain about your next step—constantly.

KEY WORD in April: Anew. This month, fresh energy and strong action permeate all areas of your life—your mind, your emotions, your body, your finances, your spiritual existence—if you allow it. But first, relax totally. SIDESTEP putting distance between you and a sought-after goal. [libra] sePteMBer 23-oCtoBer 22 KEY WORDS in March: The Work Scene. Everything

now revolves around your work and its environment.

Introduce new methods—methods that promise clarity and advancement. It’s easier than you think. Remember: You’re still your own best partner. SIDESTEP the stinging observation.

KEY WORDS in April: A Fine Blend. You’re in your element. This is perfect, since there’s no time for distraction as you rework an existing agreement or special arrangement. And you lead the way with your well-known iron-fist-in-velvet-glove approach. SIDESTEP any reluctance to take action. [scorpio] oCtoBer 23-noVeMBer 22 KEY WORD in March: Joy. The heart’s involved here—your heart. Move ahead with characteristic caution, aware that the idea, plan, or relationship you now develop stands an excellent chance of being exactly what you want.

SIDESTEP saying the first thing that comes to mind.

KEY WORDS in April: Your Working Environment. The present goal: Healthy conditions within your relationships (at work, at home, at play) and the work scene. This is an ongoing work-in-progress. Know that you now have strong planetary backup. SIDESTEP a lackluster approach. [sagittarius] noVeMBer 23-deCeMBer 21 KEY WORD in March: Headquarters. You now find yourself submerged in home-related matters, with a special emphasis on work-related projects. It’s quite a bit, as you now sort through and restructure your home base—and everything in it! SIDESTEP sending mixed signals— intentionally.

KEY WORDS in April: Cupid’s Arrow. When you least expect it—or for that matter, desire it—you’re struck.

Passion of some sort (person, project or place) now enters your life. Before you make any lasting decisions, think well and go slowly. SIDESTEP an unwillingness to even discuss the issue. [capricorn] deCeMBer 22-JanuarY 19 KEY WORDS in March: A Listening Ear. Yours, of course.

A major element within your demeanor, nothing escapes your attention. You may not say anything, but you hear and you see. Pace yourself now. There’s quite a lot going on.

SIDESTEP not answering your phone or your e-mails.

KEY WORDS in April: A Sound Plan. The core of your existence—where you live and where you work—is up for discussion. At the very least, review. Time to reach far afield and create the plan that will secure your environment for some time. SIDESTEP being difficult to reach. [aquarius] JanuarY 20-FeBruarY 18 KEY WORDS in March: Possessions and Lifestyle.

Within this, your income is the Number One issue.

Signs of improvement exist; in fact, an actual increase may soon be tangible. That’s great! But be aware of its scope and its shelf life. SIDESTEP skimming the surface of important issues.

KEY WORDS in April: The Best Idea. Out of the Tree of Life, you don’t pick plums. You snap off ideas. And this month is no exception. And now, you’re after an idea, a concept or a plan that rarely existed before. Just relax. It’s at your fingertips. SIDESTEP being too slow in your response.

photography courtesy of The assoCiaTed Press

[taurus] aPril 21-MaY 20 KEY WORDS in March: A New List. Time to structure a secret agenda that will guide you through the coming months. Nothing is too insignificant. Know that whatever goal or desire you now list contains the seeds of future achievement. SIDESTEP lumping everything together.

For more about what’s going on in the firmament, check out Fran smith’s w website at starcast12.com.

want More? please go to page 34 or visitshoremagazine.com for a full listing of the area’s best events.

shore picks

Mar 27-29

chicago’s 2013 st. patrick’s day parade noon, Columbus dr downtown Chicago chicagostpatsparade.com Chicago’s annual holiday parade is fun for all ages. The parade’s viewing stand will be located in front of Buckingham Fountain.

The parade also can be viewed on WLS/ABC 7.

Mar 16

micro beer brew night 7-11pm, Centennial Park Banquet Facilities, 1005 s Centennial dr, Munster 219.836.6937. munster.org Attendees to this annual event can enjoy season microbrews, along with seven tasting tickets and an appetizer buffet with items paired with beers.

apr 15-20

28th annual vu Jazz Fest Call for times, Valparaiso university Harre union Ballroom, 1509 Chapel dr Valparaiso. 219.464.5415 valpo.edu The Midwest’s largest non-competitive jazz event spans six days and features a variety of jazz performers, including David Sanborn and Joey DeFrancesco, who will perform on Saturday evening.

Lake Michigan

march/april 2013

95

Mar 16

cottage & lakeFront living show 3-9pm Fri, 10am-9pm sat, 11am-5pm sun deVos Place, 303 Monroe ave nW, Grand rapids 616.742.6500. showspan.com Every year, cottage enthusiasts flock to this popular show.

Last year’s show featured a marketplace with unique items from Michigan and beyond, a fine art show, a wooden boatbuilding demonstration, an indoor beach and more.

last resort

Time Keeper DefenDing the here anD now from a rising tiDe of nostalgia

by KATHRyN MACNEIL

One Friday evening, while my daughter was home from college over the holidays, she casually asked if I would like to check out the first episode of Downton Abbey with her. • For the dozen or so people who haven’t heard, the much-buzzed-about British drama is set in the early 1900s, beginning in 1912 just after the sinking of Titanic and continuing throughout World War I and beyond. The “family home” is a magnificent mansion, the costumes are gorgeous, and the romantic entanglements are complicated and swoon-worthy.

N

6 visitshoremagazine.com 9

ow I’m not one to jump on a bandwagon just because something is über-trendy, so in my mind I replied, “of course not, do you really think I’m shallow enough to buy into the hype about what is essentially a glorified soap opera?” But in real life, I shrugged and said, “Sure, why not?” I’m only human, after all. So we settled in to watch, and by the time we came up for air, the entire first season—and a good chunk of the weekend—had passed.

I can see why the series has taken the U.S. by storm. this world of tremendous privilege, rarefied manners, convoluted inheritance laws and strict social order is captivating, and one can easily imagine whiling away the day, waiting for the “dressing gong” to signal that it’s time for a pre-dinner wardrobe change, facilitated by a faithful maid/valet.

It’s tempting to muse fondly about the magical, nostalgic qualities of days gone by, in a manner reminiscent of the protagonist in Woody allen’s charming Midnight in Paris, in which a young man, convinced that he was born in the wrong era, longed to have come of age in 1920s Paris. But I must admit that I’m firmly convinced that I was, in fact, born in exactly the right time. I know this because it doesn’t take much soul-searching to realize that I am an unapologetic fan of so-called “modern conveniences.”

When I say modern conveniences, I’m not just talking about the Big three (electricity, indoor plumbing, and taco Bell). I’m referring to the sort of technology that actually enabled me to watch the first two seasons of Downton Abbey in a weekend (season one on Netflix, and season two purchased from itunes). and don’t worry: the physical burden of all of that continuous tV watching was eased by using my iPad Mini; I could simply watch the episodes on the tablet device in my lap, thus avoiding the drudgery of having to actually look up at a tV screen. these days, you can even forget about struggling to support the weight of those 1,000-page Game of Thrones books while lying on your back in bed. today’s electronic book readers are not

only lightweight and compact, they even make those authentic “swoosh” sounds when you initiate a virtual page-turn. technology has also transformed my driving experience. Just when I thought that heated seats were the ultimate in luxury, they were trumped by the frosty comfort of cooled seating, a godsend for women of a certain age. My vehicle’s voice-activated command center is eager to give me directions, describe the weather and traffic, and point me to the closest Starbucks, all while hundreds of specific-genre satellite radio stations offer commercial-free entertainment.

My cell phone offers me security in case of an emergency, gives me instant access to my children, and keeps me connected to important work emails. But more importantly, it allows me to take video of the bad drivers who turn left on red in front of me, take a picture of the “Deep fried Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs with Cheese” sign at the County fair to post on facebook, or Google the year that Animal House was released to settle a bet with my husband. am I spoiled? absolutely. But all progress requires sacrifice. and besides, I can go old-school when necessary. In fact, I’m watching the current third season of Downton Abbey one episode at a time each week as it is broadcast, even though everyone knows that the only shows that are watched in “real time” these days are the Super Bowl and the academy awards red carpet arrivals. the bottom line is this: if time-travel were indeed possible, I’m pretty sure I’d still choose to stay put right here. Sure, sometimes I miss having a catchy commercial jingle stuck in my head all day. and the only thing more intoxicating than the smell of the pages of a brand new bestseller is the ancient, evocative aroma of a musty old classic. But on the rare occasion when I long for simpler times, I can grab the very first record album I ever bought (Simon and Garfunkel’s Greatest Hits), carefully thread it onto my old turntable, drop the needle, and let the signature lP crackle instantly transport me back to 1972. I can live there in that perfect aural fantasy for a few minutes…but then the record inevitably skips, and I realize that while the past is a lovely place to visit—there’s no time like the present.

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