Shore Magazine by The Times of NWI

style & culture

december 2010/ january 2011

The SeaSon’S BeST CELEBRATE & PARTY TONIGHT: 3 budgets that work

PRINCESS DI

tHE EnglisH RosE WHo nEvER suRREndEREd

nEil KiEnitZ

one of SPECTACULAR

ARTISTS ON THE LAkE including Holy Habitats Faith-based gREEn liFE george aquino’s dEbut column

DECEMBER 2010

contents

december 2010/january 2011

154

The Art Makers

by Megan swoyer

Found objects, photographs, hunks of stone or metal: watch these artists bring them to life through their work.

photograph by Tony V. MarTin

A Party for Every Budget By christy L. BonsteLL

Princess Diana—Our Fascination

Advice from experts on partying in your price range.

By Pat coLander

photograph by Tony V. MarTin

visitshoremagazine.com

The enigmatic, famous traveling shrine to an international icon comes to Grand Rapids just as we are beginning to understand what happened.

It’s Better to Give . . .

The Shore Gift Guide is back, with 26 great ideas for the people on your list—or yourself!

style & culture

CELEBRATE & PARTY TONIGHT: 3 budgets that work

PRINCESS DI

tHE EnglisH RosE WHo nEvER suRREndEREd

Continental Confluence By jane dunne

A holiday buffet groaning with goodies from Spain, Italy, Scandinavia, Russia and Turkey.

december 2010/ january 2011

The SeaSon’S BeST nEil KiEnitZ

one of SPECTACULAR

ARTISTS ON THE LAkE including Holy Habitats Faith-based gREEn liFE george aquino’s dEbut column

contents

december 2010/january 2011

28 38 82

cLicks 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

shoreLines 19

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INTRO

Gary Danno, as he rehabs his way across southwestern Michigan, comes across gangster haunts and childhood memories.

LISTEN

Solid alternatives for the played-out holiday standards; and where to go for do-it-yourself Messiahs.

SHAW THOUGHTS

As beach house federal leases expire, it’s the end of an era for the Dunes’ human inhabitants.

CULTURE NUT

John Judd gets cast in the Goodman’s Christmas Carol; a moving exhibit of whirligigs in Saugatuck; and the body is revealed in Grand Rapids.

MOTORING

On every car fanatic’s wish list: a MercedesBenz that packs convertible space and illumination; an Autoliv Night Vision system; and Jaguar XJ and XJL Supersports.

THE GOOD LIFE

Hotelier George Aquino’s debut column dishes about Grand Rapids’ posh new wine bar, Reserve.

INTERVIEW

Legendary Jack Lane, who spent a lifetime taking photos of the glamorous and unglamorous people of Chicago, has a book and an exhibition at the Lubeznik Center.

GREEN NOTES

Ministers take a faithbased approach to environmental issues including clean water, air and sustainability.

house & Grounds 82

Last resort 96

HAUTE PROPERTIES Couples who convert churches into homes have faith in re-creating sacred space.

Nostalgic Holiday

By juLie dean kessLer

For Thelma Venema of Crown Point, the heritage passed down from her ancestors in the Netherlands is the mainstay of her home holiday decor.

HEALTH CLUB

Local chefs assure us it is possible to eat healthy for the holidays, and the popularity of plastic surgery is not limited to just women.

Hard Hat Ball Venetian Festival Wine Tasting Blue Gallery Grand Opening Hospice at Home Benefit Smooth Jazz at South Shore Harbor Shores Opening Vander Leek Cup Regatta Krasl Concours La Rabida Lawn Fête Schu’s Golf Invitational

Special Presentations By kathryn macneiL

The only tradition that never goes away? The timeless holiday TV special.

hotsPots 50 78 88 94

Essential Events Bite & Sip Shore Things Shorecast

10 Publisher’s Letter 12 Editor’s Letter

photography courtesy of [clockwise, from top left] MErCEDES-BEnZ USa, SaUGaTUCK CEnTEr For THE arTS, Tony V. MarTin, GEorGE aQUino, roBErT Wray

publisher’s

lETTER

have an attitude about birthdays: they are your own personal holiday, a gift from God, and ought to be treated as such—even if it’s my own birthday we’re talking about. Recently I hit a milestone, and before anyone else got a chance to make a plan, I made one for myself: Julie and I spent a long weekend in New Orleans and I got a chance to study the history and enjoy some wonderful food. Horseshoe general manager Dan Nita and Valparaiso University president Mark Heckler both shared their personal favorite eateries, and the suggestions did not disappoint! My brother Bobby and his wife Elyse joined us for what was a very low-key weekend, which was needed after spending the previous weekend surrounded by my three grandkids Christian, Anna and Joshua. Their mom and dad (Michelle and David Mueller) drove down from Rapid City and joined us as Julie and I flew in to daughter Brooke’s for a weekend filled with baseball and football. Of course, my wife had a secret birthday plan for me with just a few friends at the home of our neighbors, Paul and Brenda Miller. And I would have never been the wiser if she hadn’t left a copy of the invite in my printer. Sorry, dear. Wedding bells were in the air as our good friends Andy and Joanna (now Todd) from Chicago got married. I wasn’t real excited about the November date until I found out that the wedding was in Vero Beach, Florida. Nice plan, Joanna, as Julie and I had a great time enjoying the sun and being part of the special moment. It was a bonus that my youngest brother Ricky, who lives in Naples, Florida, drove over and I got to hang with him for a while. This issue marks the fifth birthday of Shore magazine and our other Shore brand products, the natural basis for a party issue. We also are welcoming a new columnist, George Aquino, whom many of our Michigan readers already know. George’s day job is running the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids, but in his spare time he is a blogger who loves discovering great food and wine, interesting people and the best places to go. Now you can read him in Shore each issue. His first article is on a new concept restaurant and wine bar, Reserve. Believe me, I will be joining him for a taste of Silverado as soon as I can get there. I hope your holiday season is filled with happiness and good health and you have continued blessings in 2011. We will see you next year with our special Lake Michigan area gourmet issue, all the best from the world of food and drink, in January. Bill Masterson, Jr.

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Editor’S

lETTEr

hen it comes to understanding and relating to Princess Diana, I was late to the party. An activist, working political wife like Cherie Blair or Hillary Clinton was not difficult to comprehend. Marilyn Monroe was far more interesting to me than an undistinguished, awkward teenage girl born into a wealthy, privileged, entitled family where members had plenty of time to feud because basically no one worked. Oh, and the women in Diana Spencer’s world were valued only if they were able to produce a male heir (and a spare). The wedding was something to watch—like an episode of The Tudors—a throwback homage to Shakespeare (whose patron was James I, remember) with a dress that had so many yards of taffeta, there was a crisis when they tried to fit it into the glass carriage. The only thing missing were the heads on spikes. Even now when you start throwing around words like “storybook” and “fairy tale” you lose me. And to anyone who was becoming an adult in the real world of the late 1970s and early 1980s, fantasy land was for lottery tickets only.

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I was in the hospital after the birth of my son 29 years ago, when it was mentioned on Good Morning America that Princess Diana was pregnant. Becoming a parent for most of us is a leap, because it entails grasping this enormous responsibility you have now. You will no longer make a decision without reflecting on the effect it will have on a child. No matter how many people you have helping you change diapers and fix meals, you will be alone with your baby fighting the world at some point. Princess Diana’s day of reckoning was coming. For the next 20 years, we watched with fascination, awe, horror and embarrassment, as Diana Spencer became an adult, a role model and an icon. Through the highly visible process of her coming of age as part of the 24/7 news cycle, we saw the world transformed. Several weeks after her death, I happened to be in Paris walking by the Pont d’Alma tunnel around 11 p.m. Hundreds of bouquets of flowers were fixed to the fence or sitting on the square near the entrance and people in ones, pairs and small groups just kept leaving more as they walked by. Some crossing themselves and others barely stopping at all. By then, I got it. Princess Diana made an important contribution. An anachronistic monarchy, one of the last unassailable bastions of secrets and lies in the English-speaking world, may have changed anyway, but it was Princess Diana’s emotional intelligence about using her celebrity for cause that set the standard for a more progressive world order. She did not create Bono or Al Gore, but she showed the way. The exhibit of her life and (yes) her clothes—which she had learned to sell off and donate—has just opened in Grand Rapids and will be there until the middle of February at the GRAM. I am looking forward to what more I can learn from her about living in our world. Best wishes for the holidays, which are a blessing to all. Our next print edition will be out in January. In the meantime, visit us on the web at visitshoremagazine.com, become our fan on Facebook and e-subscribe to Shorelines, my weekly blog and e-newsletter. Pat Colander

style & culture

Publisher Bill Masterson, Jr. Director of Product Development Christopher Loretto 219.933.3243 Chris.Loretto@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 Pre-press Specialists Maureen Benak Rhonda Fancher Tracy Hanson Advertising Designers Ryan Berry Kathy Campbell Matt Huss Jacqueline Murawski

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.

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Single copy price is $4.95. One-year subscriptions $20 (8 issues) Two-year subscriptions $25 (16 issues) Three-year subscriptions $35 (24 issues)

volume 6 / number 8

Editor / Associate Publisher Pat Colander 219.933.3225 Pat.Colander@nwi.com Managing Editor Julia Perla Huisman 219.933.3353 Julia.Huisman@nwi.com Assistant Managing Editor Kathryn MacNeil 219.933.3264 Kathy.MacNeil@nwi.com Design Director Ben Cunningham 219.933.4175 Ben.Cunningham@nwi.com Designers April Burford, Ally Davis Online Editor Ashley Boyer Contributing Editors Jane Ammeson Heather Augustyn Lois Berger Sue Bero Robert Blaszkiewicz Christy Bonstell Claire Bushey John Cain Laura Caldwell Tom Chmielewski Juli Doshan Jane Dunne Rob Earnshaw Jeremy Gantz Terri Gordon Dave Hoekstra Seth â&#x20AC;&#x153;towerâ&#x20AC;? Hurd Jim Jackson Rick Kaempfer Lauri Harvey Keagle Julie Dean Kessler Mark Loehrke Sherry Miller Virginia Mullin Phil Potempa Andy Shaw Fran Smith Megan Swoyer Eloise Valadez Sharon Biggs Waller Contributing Artists and Photographers Heather Eidson Jennifer Feeney Richard Hellyer Callie Lipkin Tony V. Martin David Mosele Johnny Quirin 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.

contributors GEORGE AQUINO is a hotelier by day, and according to his wife, a blogger for his third shift job. George’s travel and food blog, My Hotel Life, came as a result of his interest in documenting his travel and culinary journeys through his writings and lifelong love for photography. Not only is he an ambassador for West Michigan—where he currently resides with his wife Elena and their three kids—but he is also a citizen of the world through his travel experiences in Asia, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. Tag along with George as he scouts the world of food haunts and destination finds through his new Shore column, “The Good Life,” on page 30. RYAN BERRY is a graphic artist at the Times Media Company with nearly 10 years of design experience. He has worked in a wide range of media over the years, including corporate identity, illustration, advertising, Web design, packaging and just about anything else design-related. Berry truly loves the art of design, and studied fine art throughout college. A father of three who enjoys spending most of his time with his kids, Berry says, “Helping them realize their dreams is what matters most to me. Being a father has changed my life significantly. I wouldn’t change what having kids has done for my life.” See Berry’s holiday illustration on page 96. TONY V. MARTIN is so pleased to be working with the fine folks at Shore magazine, giving him a chance to use his love of art and cooking to photograph food from around the world (page 74) and area artists (page 54) for this issue. Tony’s editorial credits include ESPN, Sports Illustrated, the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, the Chicago Reader, the Northwest Indiana Times, and other publications in the U.S. and abroad.

corrections

In the October/November 2010 issue of Shore, Sharon Biggs Waller should have been listed as the writer of “The New Face of Resale,” page 60.

December 2010/January 2011

In the Shore Bride section of the October/November 2010 issue of Shore, page 15, credit for the Red Barn Experience photo should have been given to Holly Russell, of Lady and the Lens Photography.

special advertising section

IndIana

Take a stroll through the decorated streets of La Porte this Holiday season Come home to La Porte and discover all we have to offer, or rediscover all that you have been missing! Whether you have a week or a day, our picture perfect fall and winter seasons bring the area alive with activities for everyone. La Porte is an ideal weekend getaway for the entire family. Our charming downtown is alive with places to eat, antique shops and specialty stores. Golf at Beechwood, a challenging 6,800-yard, par 72 championship municipal golf course. Drive or stroll down “The Ave” and enjoy the “Painted Ladies,” the many fine examples of historic residential architecture. Visit the La Porte County Historical Society Museum, where you will find the Kesling Antique Auto collection, folklore about the infamous murderess Belle Gunness and 15 rooms of period exhibits. In addition, the museum is home to the W.A. Jones Collection of Ancient Weapons, the second largest gun collection in the entire world. Hike, bike or ski the trails that wind through the woods and lakes at one of many area parks.

So come home to La Porte and begin your sentimental journey today. Visit our website at www.cityoflaporte.com.

FestIvals & events november 27 the santa Parade starts the holIday season In downtown la Porte A Parade through Downtown La Porte Ending at the Depot Plaza

december 4-5 chrIstmas candlelIght tour In la Porte Tour Historic Homes/Buildings Decorated for Christmas

december 11 the holIday at the PoPs A Concert at the Civic Auditorium

January 22-29 2011 wInterFest In la Porte Two Weekends of Winter Activities/Contests/Games

special advertising section

>> intro <<

Gary Danno The Rehab King

PHOTOGRAPH BY TONY V. MARTIN

DECEMBER 2010/JANUARY 2011

rowing up, Gary Danno spent his summers at his grandmother’s beachfront house in Hagar Shores, Michigan. Wanting to re-create those days for his family, Danno, who lives with his wife and four daughters in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, bought a 1920s Lake Michigan home just a few miles south of where his grandmother had lived. But anyone who has spent even a short amount of time with Danno, a real estate developer who also owns five restaurants in the northwest Chicago suburbs, knows that he’s the ultimate Type A, and just sitting on the beach wasn’t going to cut it. “I remember driving down Blue Star Highway when I was a kid and seeing the sign for Pottawattamie Resort; it had a tomahawk going up and down,” says Danno about the rustic motel and cottages that are in back of his home. The sign is, unfortunately, long gone, but Danno now owns the 15.5-acre resort with its 1,000 feet of Lake Michigan beach frontage. He has converted several of the buildings, including the old dance hall where Tommy Dorsey and Frank Sinatra performed, into condos. He’s moving the remaining cottages to lakefront property he recently bought further north, and building more up-to-date units in their place. It has been, he says, a good investment. “I paid $4.2 million for this, borrowed $3 million of it and retired my debt in a year and a half,” Danno says. As if he didn’t have enough on his plate, Danno recently opened the Lake Michigan Breeze Restaurant just north of Pottawattamie Resort on Blue Star Highway and rehabbed the family beach house. “Someone showed me a photo of Al Capone overseeing the loading of this wood, which was from two Chicago Gold Coast homes, on a barge,” says Danno about the elaborately carved ceiling, stairway and paneling in his dining room and hallway. Danno found other photos of Al Capone, as well. “He was here,” says Danno, before going on to mention several new Lake Michigan projects he has in the works. “When people tell me I’m crazy, then I know I’m on the right track.” –JANE AMMESON

shorelines >> listen <<

AURAL ORNAMENTATION

HOLIDAY TUNES OFF THE BEATEN PATH Like a giant vat of eggnog or disparaging comments about the fruitcake, no holiday party would be complete without a solid yuletide soundtrack. While many hosts will blindly turn to 24-hour Christmas radio to fill this vital function, what appears to be a great idea in theory is, in practice, a December disaster waiting to happen—over and over and over again, in fact—thanks to short playlists and an overreliance on a limited stable of artists. God bless you, Brenda Lee, but the next time you go rockin’ around the Christmas tree, I kind of hope it falls on you. • Don’t let this happen to your holiday affair. Here are five great holiday CDs to get you through the season—one extremely well-known but invulnerable to overkill, the rest near obscurities but all well worth seeking out. A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS VINCE GUARALDI TRIO

Quite simply, if this 1965 classic isn’t in your Christmas rotation, maybe it’s time to move on and try your luck with some other holiday. Jazz instrumentals? Pervasive melancholy? It shouldn’t work at all, but forty-five years later, it still isn’t Christmas until those Peanuts kids have cooed their way through “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Timeless and essential.

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ONE MORE DRIFTER IN THE SNOW AIMEE MANN

With her tendency toward forlorn characters and acerbic wit, the L.A.-based singersongwriter may have been one of

CHRISTMAS SONGS EDDIE HIGGINS TRIO

the least likely candidates to put out a heartfelt Christmas record (dig the title, after all). But the real surprise of this 2006 offering is how well it all comes off, with a few typically solid but jaded originals surrounded by great renditions of traditional chestnuts like a sparkling “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

Christmas jazz records are surprisingly tough to pull off—play it completely straight and it isn’t really jazz; play it free and non-jazz listeners can’t find the melody and quickly lose interest. Fortunately, Higgins split the difference on this 2004 date, avoiding the temptation to lard things up with intrusive string accompaniment or a bunch of guest vocalists. This is piano trio jazz right down the middle, with plenty of recognizable nuggets and just enough swing to put a little bounce into that sleepy little town of Bethlehem.

A COLD DECEMBER NIGHT ERIN BODE

CHRISTMAS LOW

Sounding as if it really was recorded in a remote little cabin in the woods like the one on the album cover (because it was), this 2008 collection of soft, understated religious tunes from the St. Louis singer is a quiet marvel—an alternately sad and uplifting spiritual journey that listeners of all faiths (or even none at all) will feel blessed to have taken. The closing “In the Bleak Midwinter” absolutely glows.

It could be tough to track down this 1999 EP, but if you’ve long since written off “Little Drummer Boy” as insufferable yuletide claptrap (and you’re not alone), the hip take on it from this veteran Minneapolis indie rock trio will make it worth your effort. As a whole, this is a fairly deliberate, off-kilter take on the holiday oeuvre—don’t expect any conga lines to form, but do get ready to tell a few guests who’s playing on the stereo. —MARK LOEHRKE

GETTING MARRIED? Welcome to shorebrideonline.com!

The Northwest Indiana Symphony Chorus with members of the Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Nancy Menk, at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Schererville, IN.

‘hallelujah!’

photography courtesy of DENNIS CRANE PHOTOGRAPHY

A beloved holiday tradition continues As the holidays approach, musical groups and organizations are filling up calendars with numerous seasonal shows. But there is nothing quite like attending a production of Handel’s Messiah to ring in the joyous holidays. Especially if you are equipped to participate. Messiah, written by George Frederick Handel in 1741, has become known as the composer’s most beloved work. Telling the story of Christ’s life and death, the oratorio features pieces such as “Hallelujah Chorus,” “And the Glory of the Lord” and “Every Valley Shall Be Exalted.” The musical work has taken many forms through time, including being produced as a jazzy version in “Too Hot to Handel,” and a rock production, “Handel’s Messiah Rocks,” currently on tour. The following list is just a sample of traditional productions in Northwest Indiana, Chicago and Michigan scheduled for the upcoming holiday season.

The Sing-Along Messiah, presented by the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point, Ind. Tickets are $20 for general admission, $10 for students. nwisymphony.org.

Messiah, presented by First Presbyterian Church, 3 and 7 p.m.

Dec. 19 at the church, 121 W 9th St,

Michigan City, Ind. A group of volunteers will form the orchestra and chorus for this production. Free admission. A goodwill offering is appreciated. 219.879.4501.

Bank of America’s Do-It-Yourself Messiah, presented by the International

Music Foundation, 7 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E Randolph Dr, Chicago. The annual production has been in existence since 1976. Admission is free and audience members may join in singing the popular work. To attend, RSVP information is found at the foundation’s website, imfchicago.org.

Messiah, presented by South Suburban College’s 100-member choral group 4 p.m. Dec. 5 at St.

Victor Church, 553 Hirsch Ave, Calumet City. The production, featuring the Christmas portion of Handel’s work, will star the orchestra, chorus and soloists. Opportunities to sing with the chorus on certain selections will be available. Admission is free. 708.596.2000 ext 2349.

Messiah, presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra and the UMS (University Musical Society) Choral Union at 8 p.m. Dec. 4 and

2 p.m. Dec. 5 at Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, Mich. Tickets are $10 to $32. 734.764.2538 or ums.org. – ELOISE VALADEZ

Here’s what you’ll find at the Shore Bride website: A directory of bridal vendors serving Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan. ✿ Photography of brides and grooms in our region. ✿ Advice from the area’s top experts on wedding planning, relationships, finances, wedding entertainment, and more! ✿ Videos about local bridal businesses, events and engaged couples. ✿ Blogs from local brides. ✿ Ideas about the little details that make your big day special!

GO TO SHOREBRIDEONLINE.COM TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING TODAY!

shorelines >> shaw thoughts <<

Bye, Bye Beach House

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he breeze picks up just enough to sway the trees gently. Waves lap onto the beach below with the familiar roar of a playful lake. And the chill of a late September evening creeps across the deck as the sun inches down to treetop level. Mikey and I refresh our drinks as he reminisces about this isolated acre of Beverly Shores heaven that he and Denise are about to turn over to the federal government, owner of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. “I made a deal and I’m happy with the deal,” Mikey says of the lease on the beach house they bought for $87,000 ten years ago. Knowing full well the clock would strike midnight on September 30, 2010, forcing them and a few dozen others to move out of their homes so the feds can reclaim this irreplaceable slice of nature under a giveback plan adopted by Congress half a century ago. “Of all the promises life made to me,” my dear friend Mikey continues, “this one kept it, Andrew. This one kept it, and so much more. I bought it because I love the beach and the dunes. Howling coyotes. And train whistles just far enough away to be romantic.” Spoken with the satisfaction of a man who enjoyed a decade of unspoiled lakefront for the princely sum of $750 a month. Yes, indeed—Mr. McCluskey’s Irish eyes are in fact dancing a bit, and I see an impish grin beneath the walrus mustache. Mikey’s wife Denise is taking it a bit harder, and darned if the sunlight doesn’t reflect a bit of mist in her eyes as she laments their imminent departure. “Fine?” she asks rhetorically. “No, I’m not. I thought I would be, but I’m not. I’m really sad.” Denise is an accomplished screenwriter whose credits include About Last Night with Demi Moore. So I’m used to explanations that sound like dialogue. And she doesn’t disappoint as she talks about building a nest that came with a ticking departure clock. “It’s like a Tibetan monk’s sand painting,” she says. “All that work and then they pour it into the river.” Sublime. Mikey’s an ex-cop and a successful investor, so his metaphors have the snark that goes with the territory. “If it wasn’t government in your face, it would’ve been U.S. Steel,” he suggests. Hard to argue with that one as we sit in the shadow of the old mills. Mary and Denise fill their wine glasses and talk about the packing and moving headaches that still remain. Mikey and I head inside to see how the rum and coke are holding up. Because, if nothing else, we know how to party. And this is the party season. The Dunes National Lakeshore runs through six communities along 25 miles of Lake Michigan between Portage and Michigan City. The 15,000 acres includes two steel mills and the Port of Indiana, so the main goal of the federal takeover

ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID MOSELE

was to protect pristine oak prairies, dune grass and wetlands from industrial expansion. And the people who’d lived on the land for decades? That question vexed local, state and federal officials until they finally agreed on lease-back terms and set an exit date for residents of all but a few historic homes. More than 300 properties were vacated over the years. The final group numbered less than thirty. Displaced dunes denizens.

ou get to Mikey and Denise’s by turning off Beverly Drive onto Kansas Street, an unmarked road with enough ruts, potholes and downright chasms to shake-and-bake the heartiest cars and drivers. Turn right. WHOA!!! Up the hill. CAREFUL!!! Around the bend. WATCH IT!!!! Down the hill. WHEE!!! A final turn and you see a rambling five-bedroom ranch-style duplex built in the 1950s. Where we’ve eaten, imbibed, laughed, cried and partied hearty too many times to remember. Weddings, engagements—even the conception of a love child—on a dune that slopes down to a road and then the beach. We slept over a dozen times while our Bridgman house was being rebuilt or we couldn’t face Kansas Street in the tipsy darkness. And gagged on well water that tasted like “Iron Fountain.” I’ve run the beach between the mills and the NIPSCO cooling towers. Hit the freezing lake with Mikey for bracing dunks in late March or early November to establish new standards for macho lunacy. And savored the spectacular sunsets. Now it’s ending. They’re moving up the road a mile to another lakefront rental. Cleaner water. Better road. A new chapter. Still, we’re eager to see what the Park Service does with the old place. Most of the homes in the park have been torn down so Mother Nature can reclaim the land. Can’t argue with that. Several are occupied by environmental folks at local universities. Makes sense. And theirs? I think it would make a perfect ranger station for the feds who manage the land. Protect the dunes. Watch the sunsets. And party on. —ANDY SHAW

shorelines >> culture nut <<

Meet John Judd A NEW SCROOGE COMES TO ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

run at Chicago’s Writers’ Theatre. Also, now is a good time to mention his recent portrayal of Lord Capulet in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s notable production of Romeo and Juliet. “Maybe it’s because of the evil characters I played that I was cast as Scrooge,” Judd jests. “I was downright evil as Iago and I did play an assassin in The Lieutenant of Inishmore. There’s no question that Scrooge is a miserly, mean man, but of course this time the audience roots for his redemption.”

e adds, “I’m in good hands with William Brown directing. I believe this will be his fifth consecutive year.” According to Brown, “It is a privilege to at last work with John after years of admiring his work. He is a gifted actor, and I can only imagine the fantastic qualities he will bring to this iconic role.” “Iconic” it is, and Judd doesn’t take for granted his coveted principal role in the famous Dickens play. “I am thrilled to be in this wonderful holiday classic and to take on this role of a lifetime!” he says. When asked if he had any final words, Judd’s growling response is “Bah, humbug!” And he nails it. –Lois Berger

BODIES REVEALED Nov 20, 2010-May 1, 2011 6 visitshoremagazine.com 2

Grand rapids Public Museum // 272 Pearl St nW, Grand rapids // 616.929.1700, 616.456.3977 // grmuseum.org. The goal of this compelling exhibit—composed of more than a dozen fullbody, real human specimens and hundreds of organs—is to educate the viewing public about their own bodies, and, consequently, to inspire them to make positive lifestyle and nutrition choices. The specimens are displayed with reverence and respect, allowing visitors to closely observe the skeletal, muscular, nervous, digestive, respiratory, reproductive and circulatory systems of the human body. Some of the health conditions that will be revealed include obesity, breast cancer, colon cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, ectopic pregnancy, arthritis, osteoporosis, bone fractures, and organ damage due to smoking and dietary excess. although the use of real human specimens is rare and thought provoking, children (accompanied by a parent or teacher), families and students of all ages are encouraged to benefit from the educational nature of the exhibit by observing firsthand the complexities, strengths and frailties of the miraculous human body.

photography [this page, top] courtesy of GoodMan TheaTre, [bottom] courtesy of BodIeS eXhIBITIon; [opposite page] courtesy of SaUGaTUCK CenTer For The arTS

hen it was announced that Larry Yando would be performing in Mary Zimmerman’s fall production of Goodman Theatre’s Candide, it raised the question of who would play Ebenezer Scrooge, whom Yando portrayed for the last several seasons of A Christmas Carol. Goodman’s press release proclaimed: “John Judd steps into Ebenezer Scrooge’s miserly shoes.” “Actually, I call myself a character actor,” John Judd tells Shore in a phone interview. “I’ve played many, many, diverse characters, so Scrooge will now be added to my list.” Also on that list is Judd’s portrayal of Laurence Olivier in Austin Pendleton’s production of Orson’s Shadow (six productions over 5 years beginning in 2000 at Chicago’s Steppenwolf). “There’s a good story about that role,” Judd remarks. “There I was, in my underwear at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in Massachusetts, and who should visit backstage but Paul [Newman] and Joanne [Woodward]. Probably because of the informality of the incident, we just clicked. They loved the play and explained that Joanne was the artistic director of the Westport Country Playhouse, where the tour was going next. It was the beginning of a lovely friendship during the run of the play, and we reminisced when I was ironically cast in a small speaking role alongside Newman’s outstanding portrayal of John Rooney, the Irish-American crime boss in TO GO E R E H W s Carol a Road to Perdition.” m st ri h AC ec 31 Then there was the significant role of Iago in Othello. Nov 13-Dheatre T “My friend, director Michael Halberstam, tagged me for Goodman rborn St ea 170 N D hicago, Ill. that huge role,” Judd says. “I thought he would come to C .3800 his senses, because I had never done Shakespeare before 312.443 e.org theatr and I had a lot to learn.” He must have learned well, goodman because he received rave reviews during the 18-week

A MOvING ExHIBIT Pop-ups and whirligigs in Saugatuck for the holidays They’ve been a playful part of yards and lawn ornament landscaping for decades. Still, not many people know the technical name for these whimsical wind-driven devices. But a new and promisingly entertaining exhibit at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts is about to change this terminology challenge. MOVE! Whirligigs, Mechanical Toys, and Pop-Up Books opens November 5 and continues through December 27 in the Bertha Krueger Reid Exhibition Hall. “A whirligig is the name for the wind-driven animated lawn feature with moving parts,” explains Krista Reuter, program director for the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, and one of the creative forces who dreamed up the idea for the exhibit. “Ken Carls, one of our board members and who’s also on our exhibits committee, told me about whirligigs after he saw a local private collection.” That private collection is the expansive in-home offering of John and Linda Axe, who live in historic Castle Park, just south of Holland. The couple generously agreed to provide more than a dozen of their pieces on loan. “The very first one of these in our collection came from an antiques fair close to our cottage, and it’s a cow being milked,” John says. “The reason I bought it wasn’t because it was a whirligig, but because of the cow, since my wife likes to collect them.” Today, the Axe collection of whirligigs spans more than 70. But visitors to the exhibit shouldn’t expect to see a sea of fans blowing to set the Axe whirligigs in motion. “Although we also have some newer commercially produced whirligigs, many of ours are pretty old and made of wood, so they won’t be spinning,” John says. “We wanted to add some other displays to complete and expand this concept of whimsical and imaginative ideas of invention, and that’s when we decided to add pop-up books and mechanical toys,” Reuter says. After contacting other area arts organizations to help comb the region for pop-up books, Reuters says she netted an impressive array to include, ranging from vintage to newer offerings. The complete exhibit will boast 35 pieces total, with the mechanical and metal wind-up toys being included as bonus content. MOVE! Whirligigs, Mechanical Toys, and Pop-Up Books ranks as one of the more unusual programming moves for the arts center, according to Reuters. “We did a previous exhibit that was also very nostalgic and light-hearted about puppeteer Burr Tillstrom, which included a display of his famous puppets from Kukla, Fran and Ollie and his connection to our area, since he had a home here in Saugatuck,” Reuter says. “Everybody loved that exhibit. And this collection also appeals to that same inner child.” —PhiL PotemPa

shorelines

>> motoring <<

holidAy hAUler Packages, parcels and people take to the roads this holiday season in the timeless tradition of a family wagon.

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As a child, I wondered how all of those presents and packages fit into Santa’s sleigh as he soared around the world on Christmas Eve. Of course, the answer is clear to me now—his sleigh is built with the sled industry’s first “flexible cargo system.” Today, Mercedes-Benz offers that and more in a stylish package for year-round carrying needs, courtesy of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon with standard all-wheel drive to harness winter travel. The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon, base priced at $56,200, is the only vehicle in its market segment to feature sevenplace seating with a pair of convertible rear-facing seats harbored beneath the luggage compartment floor until needed. When not in service, over 34 cubic feet of cargo space is available behind the upright second row. A thoughtful vertical cargo net is easily positioned behind the seat to insure that contents stay contained in the cargo bay. Need more room? Lowering the 60/40 fold-down three-passenger middle seat provides a cavernous 69 cubic feet of carrying capacity. Taking a spin from the Mother Goose nursery rhyme, “Hickory Dickory Dock,” reveals the E350 wagon can carry a grandfather clock and still accommodate three adult occupants when the back row and a portion of the splitfold second seat are lowered. Carrying a

Christmas tree is also made clean, easy and secure with standard aluminum roof rails up top. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon comes in Luxury and Sport trim to appeal to a wide range of customer tastes. Sport models come with LED daytime running lights, three bar front grille and a lower ride height. Both models are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that builds 268 horsepower managed by a seven-speed automatic transmission. Superb ride quality, a luxurious cabin with sophisticated amenities and superior fit and finish come standard.

Mercedes santa assist

Santa Claus could benefit from Mercedes’ E350 Wagon technology with such features as Attention Assist System that can alert the driver to the first signs of drowsiness. Sudden and erratic movement of the steering wheel triggers an audible warning suggesting it’s “time for a rest.” A coffee cup graphic also appears in the instrument cluster. Another nicety is Active Lane Keeping Assist, which alerts the Mercedes driver by simulating “rumble strip” vibration in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on. A small camera in the windshield scans the road ahead to recognize lane markings while the Electronic Stability Program steers the vehicle back into its lane as a result of specific rear wheel braking. Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a small video camera to sense both headlights and taillamps of forward and oncoming vehicles, then automatically transitions between high and low beam operation to avoid dazzling other drivers with bright light. Headlight range fluctuates between 200 and 1,000 feet. Adapting the innovative high beam system to Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer is under consideration. –Jim Jackson

photography [this page] courtesy of Mercedes-Benz UsA; [opposite page, top] courtesy of AUtoliv; [bottom] courtesy of JAgUAr north AMericA

America’s 7-seat wagon

Road to Night Vision there’s a bright spot in the trials of driving at night that is making an impact in the high-tech world of night vision. one of the biggest challenges of night driving is seeing pedestrians on the road ahead. While standard headlights can provide good illumination, objects at distances beyond 45 yards are usually not seen by a driver at night. swedish-based Autoliv, inc., and Autoliv electronics night vision in goleta, california, has launched the secondgeneration night vision system (nv2) that offers advanced pedestrian detection capability using a single far-infrared sensor. the system is sensitive to the infrared light from warm objects and can “see” in total darkness without any primary illumination. When the nv2 system recognizes pedestrians, an alert flashes and a highly detailed black and white video image of the person appears on the instrument panel’s night vision display located in the gauge cluster or navigation screen. the Autoliv night vision system is available on the 2011 model year Audi A8, BMW 5-series/7-series and rolls-royce ghost at a cost estimated to be under $2,000. –Jim Jackson

Jaguar’s New Claws

–Jim Jackson

december 2010/january 2011

British-built Jaguar climbs to a new level of automobile hierarchy with the redesigned 2011 Jaguar XJ sedan. Sculptural elegance and a new attitude lead the seductive teardrop styling of a sport coupe to the next generation of buyers ready to experience the luxury of the Jaguar brand. The 2011 Jaguar carries the heritage of a standard XJ and long wheelbase XJL model that lavish passengers with 44 inches of rear seat legroom wrapped in an exquisite and beautifully appointed premium leather cabin fit for royalty. But the new XJ collection is built to be driven with the choice of three powerful and refined new engines that make this car the most technically advanced Jaguar automobile ever created. Leading the lineup is the 2011 Jaguar XJ/XJL Supersport with a 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 engine that builds 510 horsepower, followed in close order by the XJ/XJL Supercharged version for 470 horsepower. The 2011 Jaguar XJ flagship comes with a powerful naturally aspirated 5.0-liter engine that makes 385 horsepower—plenty of claws for pampered travel along Lake Michigan shorelines.

shorelines

George Aquino

reserve Wine Bar Addiction Do you remember how you feel when you first fall in love? How you just can’t get enough of the other person? How what starts out as an infatuation quickly turns into an addiction of the good kind? How you torturously wonder if the honeymoon will come to an end? Am I wrong for feeling this way about a wine bar?

eserve, the posh wine bar tucked between the Amway Grand Plaza hotel and the DeVos Place Convention Center, opened just before the city’s busiest signature event, ArtPrize—a bit of a gamble. But the gamble paid off for Reserve’s owners Dick and Betsy DeVos, the generous donors to ArtPrize, and their partner, Kameel Chamelly. (Kameel sits on a goldmine of a bakery, boutique grocery and wine store in the historic Heritage Hill neighborhood, just up the street from Reserve. His loft above Martha’s Vineyard houses the best wine collection in West Michigan.) Reserve is simple and elegant with a global feel. Think Barcelona meets Grand Rapids via Paris and Buenos Aires. Add to that the modernity of Aureole’s three-story glass wine tower with a touch of Batali’s charcuterie from Eataly in New York. Then add 102 wines by the glass with prices starting at brown bag level ($4.50) on up to wine cellar reserve categories. Ran Ortner’s Open Water, winner of the inaugural ArtPrize last year, sits on the throne above the bar like da Vinci’s Last Supper inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. Reserve’s interior space is coalesced by Steelcase, Herman Miller and Haworth furnishings, the West Michigan furniture trifecta. It’s like a Neocon showroom with bling. Est! Est!! Est!!! Chris Pawlisz, formerly of Chicago’s Bistro 110, is the restaurant general manager. Quiet in demeanor, Chris is no stranger to high volume operations, and by the looks of it, Reserve will achieve that level of success. So far, I’ve managed to visit Reserve between two and three times each week—with the occasional two visits in one day. The friendly staff makes an effort to remember the

photography by GeorGe Aquino

>> the good life <<

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higher-priced wines such as the Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon names of the regulars and the atmosphere reflects Chris’ personal from Alexander Valley or the Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon leadership style. from Napa Valley. Both wines are a mouthful of fruit with a richly The chef honcho at Reserve is former Journeyman chef Matt deserved five-star pedigree. Millar. With his full beard and striped apron, he resembles Zach Galifianakis with Mario Batali’s talent (less the orange crocs). There is no question that this guy can cook. Chef Millar pays tribute to n another visit, I paired my Chicken Liver and pork and cheese in his charcuterie and cheese selections ($6 per Foie Gras Pate ($6) with a glass of the Domaine item). As expected, the Pork and Garlic Rillette delivers a knockout Gilbert Picq Chablis. Crisp and dry, Gilbert Picq punch, but it’s the Fermin Jamon Iberico, with its butter-like exemplifies what I expect from a good Chablis. texture, that is the champion. I’ve been digging cab francs lately, and after a Reserve also offers hot and larger plates. I tried the Burrata strong recommendation from a wine vendor with roasted bell peppers a la Grecque with Blis nine-year solera friend, I’ve made the M. Cosentino “The Franc” sherry vinegar ($13), a dish of elegant simplicity. Chef Millar also from Napa ($7/$27) my Reserve “go to” wine offered a sample of the Blis Michigan-made smoked steelhead when I cannot narrow down my options. On a late night jaunt roe. (Blis is the creation of former Amway Grand executive chef with my wife and brother-in-law visiting from Scottsdale, my Steve Stallard. Having worked with Chef Stallard in the early ‘90s, server skipped the whole up-sell and simply asked if I wanted my there is no question that his products are outstanding.) But it was cab franc. How can you beat that value for a bottle of wine? The the Spinach and Poached Egg Risotto with hooligan, reggiano and Franc stood toe-to-toe with one of my favorite cheeses in the sweet peppers that had me at hello. A silky risotto is hard to come world: the taleggio from Italy. by, but this version is deadly delicious, especially with the perfectly I am also very happy to see two of my favorite wines make the cooked egg. Make no mistake: Reserve is, first and foremost, list of 250. Wyncroft is the best chardonnay I’ve ever tasted. And a wine bar. However, Chef Millar’s selection of small plates, yes, it’s a Michigan wine! Bekaa Valley’s Chateau Musar is the charcuterie, cheeses and desserts perfectly other favorite to make the list. While almost complements the grape selections without all the wines are priced fairly, the Chateau taking away the true essence of Reserve’s Musar is one I’d like to see the price go down primary mission. on a bit. As for sparkling, Reserve’s marketing RESERVE With the vast selection of wines, there is director Allie Merrick got me hooked on the 201 Monroe Avenue NW no chance you won’t find something you Gruet Blanc de Noir from New Mexico ($9). Grand Rapids, Mich. can approve and afford. Reserve’s two-ounce The wine is astonishingly soft with micro616.855.9463 pours provide customers an incentive to try bubbles to tickle the palate. –GeorGe Aquino reservegr.com

shorelines >> interview <<

JACk LAnE

Life through the lens of a legend

Jack Lane is a man with stories to tell. He started his professional career as a copy boy at the Washington Post, which published his first photo when, by chance, he snapped a shot of a dramatic car accident. From there he moved to his father’s advertising agency in upstate New York, eventually joining the powerhouse Chicago ad agency Leo Burnett in 1965 as an account executive. He later owned a commercial studio in the city where for 22 years he photographed products for advertising campaigns. Shore sat down with him recently at his home in New Buffalo to hear some of those stories and learn more about the upcoming exhibit at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts in Michigan City that will showcase photos from his book Saloon Society Chicago Style, which documents the nightlife at the legendary Chicago hangout of journalists and actors, O’Rourke’s Bar.

ow did you get started in photography? My start in photography was when I was 11 years old, and somebody in the neighborhood had a darkroom. And I walked in, and I saw a piece of white paper turn magically into a photograph. I have never been so amazed at anything I’ve seen as that day. When I finally, thirty years later, had my own studio in Chicago, every single picture that ever came up in that developer, I had the same feeling. Was working at an ad agency in the ’60s at all like the television show Mad Men? We had much more fun in Chicago in ’65 than [the show’s characters] seem to be having. Mad Men doesn’t ring true to me. God, it was glamorous, wonderful work. Especially for a kid from Syracuse.

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how did you come to open your own studio? What was the work like? People said, “Gee, you take nice pictures.” So I figured that was enough to start my own photo studio . . . The first studio was in the old Chez Paree building, which is at Fairbanks and Ohio Street. The whole second floor was creative: photographers, filmmakers. That was lucky, because I would work all day building my studio and then at night I would go out with Dell Hermann, a neighbor photographer, and over drinks I would learn about photography. How do you do this? How do you make this look like that? And he’d been doing it for a long time, and he taught me.

you often photographed food. What are some of the tricks of the trade? I’d hire a food stylist, which you have to. They know how to make food look good. The mashed potatoes, oh, you don’t use mashed potatoes, you use a cleaning compound. It has a granular look to it, but it smells bad. You undercook your vegetables. Meat—I remember we torched meat to get it a nice brown, and then you put oil on it . . . You don’t ever eat the food you photograph. You’d die. how has having a digital camera, one that you can just keep in your pocket, changed how you shoot? I will certainly shoot more, and I can have a decent camera with me at all times. So I don’t say, “Oh, gee, I should have taken that picture.” Why did you take all those photos at o’rourke’s? Because I hung out there. It was filled with writers and artists and crazy, crazy neighborhood people. It was two blocks from my house. [Movie critic Roger] Ebert would bring in movie stars, which made it kind of interesting. You’d see Mel Brooks there, Tom Wolfe. Every night there was good conversation or funny stuff going on . . . I would have my camera with me, because I’d come from the studio or I’d come from a job. And if I had it, well, what do you have a camera for? You take pictures . . . I did [the book] because I wanted to evoke some of the memories. –Claire bushey WHERE TO GO Jack Lane—Saloon Society Chicago Style Nov 14-Feb 13 (Public opening reception Nov 19, 5-8pm) Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W 2nd St, Michigan City, Ind.

PhotograPhy by tony V. Martin

shorelines >> green notes <<

How Green Is Your G od? Faith groups raise environmental consciousness For David Mahan, faith and environmentalism are one and the same. • “Look at Calvin,” he says. “He had a lot to say about the two books, the Bible and God’s world. It isn’t new or radical. It’s basic Christian theology.”

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ahan serves as registrar and director of recruitment and Great Lakes programs for Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies in Mancelona, Michigan. Au Sable is a 30-year-old educational organization focused on Christian environmental stewardship. “Our mission really is to train leaders in the whole idea of sustainability and to go out and teach others,” Mahan says. The movement to meld environmentalism and faith may appear progressive, but those involved say it’s been a part of every major world religion since the beginning of time. The Rev. Jim Deming, minister for environmental justice and witness ministries for the United Church of Christ in Cleveland, says the basis for melding environmentalism and faith is firmly grounded in Genesis. “When God created the Earth, he saw that it was good,” Deming says. “Are we still taking responsibility for this Earth and what we have done to it and have not done to it? We see the Earth as a gift, not an entitlement. We are part of God’s creation, not the only part of it.” Deming took his position in mid-May after the church’s synods called for an expansion of the environmental justice ministries to include other environmental issues, including climate change and the health issues associated with subsequent poor air quality. Climate change, Deming says, is really an issue of justice, with those who are economically disadvantaged suffering the greatest from the effects. “If one of us suffers, all of us suffer,” he says. “Do unto others. We take care of our neighbors. Jesus said it very well in the parable of the Good Samaritan: ‘Love thy neighbor as yourself.’” One of the challenges to discussing environmental issues in a religious setting, Mahan says, is the belief that being green means being politically liberal. “Politics do play a role,” he says. “Christians have been very focused on pro-life issues, but what’s more pro-life than caring for the earth?” The focus on getting FOR MORE INFORMATION to saving souls, he says, Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies: also diminishes the idea of ausable.org creation care. “We’re also very evangelical and we’re more Evangelical Environmental Network: creationcare.org concerned about a person’s salvation than the earth United Church of Christ’s around them,” Mahan says. environmental ministries: ucc.org/environmental-ministries “What is Heaven going to be?

It’s right here. I like to say you might as well learn it in this life because when you get to Heaven, it’s what God is going to have us do.” Deming says in the Great Lakes region, environmental issues are really global concerns of morality and justice. “As freshwater resources diminish, we will have more and more moral and justice issues to address,” he says. “Water is a basic element to sustaining life. Clean water is certainly a moral issue across the globe.” In the Gulf Coast region, Deming’s environmental ministries have been actively involved in the BP oil spill crisis in a number of ways. “We work with them on educating the congregation on what is happening in the Gulf area and also in Florida,” he says. “We are monitoring that and don’t yet know all of the effects. Part of it is pastoral care. People’s lives and livelihoods are impacted.” The UCC is opening a new Environmental Justice Center in Seattle, Washington, as well, making for the fourth in the nation in addition to those in San Diego, eastern North Carolina and Washington, D.C. “Environmental justice goes deeper than changing light bulbs,” he says. “It’s about changing hearts and lives. It’s not a single issue. It’s a comprehensive one.” –Lauri Harvey KeagLe

We see the earth as a gift, not an entitlement. We are part of god’s creation, not the only part of it.”

shorelines Healthy Holiday Eats Oh, the joy of holiday parties—the passed appetizers, the buffets, the seated dinners . . . the calories, the added pounds. It’s a bittersweet time of year, that’s for sure. But area chefs are here to tell us, your holiday soirees don’t have to result in weight gain if you take care to indulge in the right types of treats this season. CoCKtAils Anything made with a heavy cream, or eggnog, is going to help you

pack on the pounds, says Kevin Moss, a chef at Amoré Ristorante in Crown Point, Indiana. He recommends gravitating toward drinks that have a high berry content, such as the pomegranate martini he makes. Made with Absolut Berri Acai, pomegranate schnapps, and Pom juice, the result is still festive, but also light. “Fruit and berries are still holiday and festive, and you can jump on the antioxidant train,” he says.

AppEtizERs At Bentwood Tavern in New Buffalo, Michigan, executive chef Jenny Drilon uses her Two Ruby Salad for a festive treat. The salad includes grapefruit sections, avocado and baby spinach sprinkled with pomegranate seeds and topped with a sweet dressing, such as poppy seed (or Drilon’s own; see the recipe on visitshoremagazine.com). EntRéEs “Turkey’s healthy anyway,” says David Hemdal, the executive chef at Strongbow Inn in Valparaiso, Indiana. So he recommends sticking with the classic holiday dish, but adding your own twist, such as sautéing it, as long as you don’t use too much butter. “You can use the turkey breast meat like any other cutlet,” he says. Another option, Hemdal adds, is to bake it and top it with items of your choice, such as tomatoes, onions and lemon juice. 6 visitshoremagazine.com 3

DEssERts At Ciao Bella in Schererville, Indiana, executive chef Randy Berg looks to the restaurant’s Mascarpone cheese and fruit parfait for a healthy inspiration, particularly the fresh fruit component. He recommends anything with fruit, such as a poached pear, as a healthy alternative to a traditional favorite such as ice cream. –Kathleen Quilligan

Men and Plastic surgery MoRe CoMMoN THAN You THINK Although the Bengston Center for Aesthetics and plastic surgery in Grand Rapids is located in the Women’s Health Center of West Michigan, Dr. Brad Bengston runs ads targeted toward men. “Keep your game face on,” encourages one of the ads, and Bengston, along with other doctors who work along the shore of lake Michigan, are seeing that men are responding. “it’s a natural thing to want to look as young as you feel,” says Bengston, who’s used Botox, which he offers as an example to the men who come to his practice. nationally, men account for about 9 percent of all cosmetic procedures, according to the American society for Aesthetic plastic surgery. the number of both surgical and nonsurgical procedures increased 9 percent from 2008, and although the number of surgical procedures decreased 3 percent, the number of nonsurgical procedures increased by 11 percent. Dr. laura Hoffman says men account for between 15 and 20 percent of the patients she sees at Dermatology and Cosmetic specialists in Munster, indiana, and while her practice doesn’t advertise to men, she finds that men come in for procedures after their wives have work done, especially if it’s before an important event such as a class reunion or the wedding of one of their children. Although the differences between men and women are often cited, Hoffman believes that the reasons for getting procedures such as Botox, injectable fillers or laser hair removal are “where the two worlds come together.” However, though the reasons may be the same, there are still some differences. With Botox, for example, higher amounts are used, because men’s muscles are stronger. Hoffman encourages men and women looking into procedures to make sure their doctor is board certified with good recommendations. –Kathleen Quilligan

photograph courtesy of AMY VAEREWYCK

>> health club <<

shorelines >> haute properties <<

Holy Habitat Churches converted to cozy homes

earning for wide-open spaces? Have a little faith—a home with space to spare could be a church right around the corner. For Dave and Connie Beckwith, a LaPorte church built in 1884 had all the space they needed—but little else. A businessman who brought an extensive architectural knowledge and vision to four renovations of the church, Dave explains the German Methodist church that later became Agape Christian was “just a beautiful shell when we bought it in 1985. But it had the character we were looking for, and we wanted to revitalize the neighborhood.” The spire atop the 40-foot-tall tower was long since gone, having proven to be too problematic to maintain. The Beckwiths donated the pews and bell to the new Agape church, leaving 1,800 square feet of open space plus the small choir loft. The 60-foot by 35-foot open interior’s first renovation included a glassed-in atrium that helped define the height at the apse—the vaulted recess at the end of what was the sanctuary. At the back of the church, the graduated height of the choir loft was leveled off. Since the Beckwiths’ business became home-based, offices were created. Upstairs, three large windows were installed that closed off the area dedicated to kitchen, dining room and bedrooms, yet provided a view of the downstairs. At the landing leading to the loft and bedrooms, a clear, 7-footdiameter rose window allows more natural light. To reduce noise and create more intimacy, angled spaces were created for a living room with fireplace, a dining area and kitchen, plus two bedrooms and baths. Individual plank laminate flooring was installed, while original bead board was refinished. Bedrooms on the upper level feature vaulted ceilings in warm boxcar pine, and a stairway bookcase rises to the ceiling. The couple has alternately lived upstairs and downstairs, each time adding architectural elements to accommodate keeping business and family life separate. “It’s practical and beautiful,” Dave says, but if all the walls, rooms and other additions were removed, the building would still stand on its own.

PhotograPhy by tony V. Martin

Sanctuary bliss

the rudds incorporated some of the church’s existing elements into their design, whereas the beckwith home [below and opposite] has a more contemporary look.

Other windows had been covered in an opaque plastic that was replaced with clear Lexan, a type of Plexiglas. Still, “The place was a challenge to light,” Sara notes. Some original large lighting fixtures were kept; on the trusses, track lighting was installed that can be repositioned as needed; and wall sconces and small spot lighting create more intimate areas. Carpeting over a majority of the hardwood floor softens the sounds. Downstairs, the master bedroom suite includes a dressing room, bath and closet. The bedroom wall near the entrance angles off to the large living room, where kitchen and dining areas are open to facilitate mingling during gatherings and a back kitchen is handy for catered events. The former choir loft is now a guest bedroom and personal office space with 18-foot ceilings. “The biggest challenge in renovating was taking this large space and giving it some personality—and making it functional,” Sara says. Her second career contributes to the personality factor: the former librarian is now a fiber artist whose works grace the walls. “Our favorite aspect,” Sara says, “is successfully keeping the large, open spaces while creating an intimate feel with the added architectural elements.” –Julie Dean Kessler

is eclectic, both architecturally and in décor. Steel-look railings contribute to the clean lines the couple favors, while the church’s wood trim adds warmth. There is original plaster work typical of the late 1800s and arches in the apse and along the sides. The altar area is now a fireplace and entertainment center. The dark wood ceiling—30 feet at the highest part—has scissor trusses with original stenciling on either side. A stained-glass rose window typical of Gothic church architecture spreads shafts of color on the wall in the afternoons.

December 2010/January 2011

A church-into-home makeover was exciting for Chicagoans Chris and Sara Rudd (who requested a surname pseudonym for privacy)—but “we were a bit naïve about what we were getting into,” Sara says. Looking for a large building to renovate into a loft, the couple quickly found there are no small factories in residential neighborhoods, “but there are churches, and we found one for sale.” Built in 1895 as an Episcopal church, it then functioned as a Catholic church from the mid-1920s until 90 days before the Rudds bought it in 1990. The old Chicago neighborhood escaped the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and is now what Sara calls “the typical Chicago mix” of grand old homes alongside modest cottages. The Rudds asked the church to leave everything—glasses, plates, hymnals, bingo cards, fixtures. The pulpit is used as a bar and a vestment cabinet now holds the couple’s linens and silverware. Turning 3,000 square feet of open space into comfortable living quarters took a lot longer than the couple anticipated—two years from start to finish. “When we first started looking at loft spaces at warehouses, we envisioned a hard-edged, modern look,” Sara says, “but the interior of church dictated a more traditional, elegant style.” The result

Hard Hat ball, st. josepH • venetian festival wine tasting, st. josepH • blue gallery grand opening, soutH bend • Hospice at Home benefit, soutH Haven • smootH jazz at soutH sHore, micHigan city • Harbor sHores opening, benton Harbor • vander leek cup regatta, macatawa • krasl concours, st. josepH • la rabida lawn fÊte, cHicago • scHu’s golf invitational, st. josepH 1

building hope hard hat ball st. joseph

photography by tony v. martin

At the Seventh Annual Hard Hat Ball for Harbor Habitat for Humanity, 210 attendees noted Harbor Habitat’s 15th year of service to the community and the dedication of the 100th home it completed. A message from former president Jimmy Carter, a longtime Habitat supporter, was a highlight of the event, at Pier 33.

1 Janelle McCook of Chicago and Ron Eng of St. Joseph 2 Marcus Robinson of Benton Harbor 3 Bruce and Nicole Jones of Benton Harbor 4 Debbie and Mike Green of Benton Harbor 5 Ken and Jeanine Rogers of St. Joseph

6 Brianne Bloom of Stevensville and Priscilla Bunghart of St. Joseph

7 Ken and Connie Clifford of Paw Paw 8 Todd Gustafson and Michele Grantham of St. Joseph 9 Judy and Jeff Noel of St. Joseph

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10 Mabel and John Mayfield of Benton Harbor

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all clicks compiled by sue bero

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mighty fine wine venetian festival wine tasting st. joseph

photography by gregg rizzo

It was a fine time for wine, food, music and even a car show, as some 1,100 guests also enjoyed a beautiful sunset against a backdrop of classic boats at the Venetian Festival on the St. Joseph River Wine Tasting. Tabor Hill offered five wine vintages, plus nonalcoholic beverages. 1 Kim Leuthringer with Jessy Oprea, both of Dowagiac 2 Rudy and Linda Hedstrom of St. Joseph

3 Bridgit Kronewitter and Diana Andrzejewski, both of South Bend

4 Beth Kavalska, Kim Barinka and Elyse White, all of St. Joseph 5 Kelly and Ed Hunt of St. Joseph

6 Jill Halliday-Golden and Amy Piehl, both of St. Joseph

7 Linda Schemenauer of Stevensville with David Eglinsdoerfer of Pleasant Hills, Calif.

9 Matt and Olivia Hilerio of St. Joseph 10 Shawn and Stacy Ball of Chicago

December 2010/January 2011

8 Melanie Galles and Lauren Estkowski, both of St. Joseph

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art annex

blue gallery grand opening | south bend 3

photography by gregg rizzo

More than 100 attendees gathered at a renovated Michigan Street bank building that is the new home of Blue Gallery Annex and the setting for its grand opening reception. Featured were Gallery Artists “Blue Drink,’’ wine, cheese and, of course, art, which included sculptures, painting, pottery and jewelry in salon style that offered European flair.

1 Brian and Amy O’Day of Granger 2 Merv and Nancy Kusnierek of South Bend 3 Jacqueline Graham and Katie Dincolo of Granger 4 Matthew Kahn and Michael Uyhelji of South Bend

5 Cheri Lesauskis of Benton Harbor 6 Valerie Sabo of Granger 7 Lynda Roth of South Bend and Katy Demaris of Granger

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tasteful event

hospice at home benefit | south haven photography by gregg rizzo

The Fifth Annual Hospice Harbor Wine and Beer Tasting raised approximately $20,000 to benefit the program as more than 300 guests enjoyed a picturesque setting at the Dan and Mary McNulty home. Food, a raffle, a live auction, and music provided by a hospice volunteer added to the fun.

1 Tara and Andy Callaghan of New York City

2 Terri Dotson and Wanda Debock of South Haven 3 Melinda Graham of South Haven and Janelle Healy of Chicago 4 Marilyn Runkle of South Haven, Sheryl Perry of Holland and Diane Caywood of South Haven 5 Judy Ison of Bangor and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Barsâ&#x20AC;?

6 Candence Lonman of Fennville and Kim Slazek of Grand Junction

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soothing sounds

smooth jazz at south shore | michigan city photography by gregg rizzo

The Smooth Jazz at South Shore concert brought 3,000 people to Washington Park for fine music, refreshments and the opportunity to benefit Sand Castle Shelter for Homeless Children and Families, Stepping Stone Shelter for Abused Women and the LaPorte County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

1 Tom Braxton

2 Michael and Janice Carter of Indianapolis 3 Kimberly Slane of Merrillville and Lauretta Hapke of LaPorte 4 Jeff Weir of Michigan City, Bobbie Petru of Beverly Shores, and Lois Ward of Michigan City 5 Diane and Keith Logan of Michigan City

6 Gwen and Darrell Allen of Benton Harbor

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golf legends

harbor shores opening benton harbor photography by gregg rizzo

The Golf Club at Harbor Shores swung into action with the help of greats Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Johnny Miller, who attended the grand opening of the 18-hole public course, along with 1,500 reception guests. Harbor Shores is a nonprofit partnership that is restoring beauty to the Lake Michigan waterfront.

1 Chris and Carrie Adams of Baroda 2 Debbie Clamage of Evanston, Ill., with Martha Emlong of St. Joseph

3 Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Ebon Sanders, Doug Schaffer, Johnny Miller and Tom Watson 4 Rocaue Emlong and Cindy Ehrenberg of St. Joseph 5 Margaret Jones of St. Joseph with David Perrin of Clinton, Iowa

6 Teresa Kelm of Stevensville and Larry Patzer of Sister Lakes 7 Kathi Werner of Knox and Jayne Cooper of Walkerton December 2010/January 2011

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setting sail

vander leek cup regatta | macatawa 3

photography by gregg rizzo

Nineteen sailboats and 80 attendees helped launch the annual Vander Leek Cup Regatta to benefit Hospice of Holland at the Macatawa Yacht Club during a cocktail reception that featured silent and live auctions and fine food. Some $22,000 was raised by local yachting enthusiasts who join to support the program.

1 Darcie and Mike Hengst of Holland 2 Laura Durham of Saugatuck, Mark Klungle of Grand Rapids and Joyce Marshal of Chicago

3 Mallory Collins and Lance Barker of Holland 4 Susan LaFontaine of West Olive and Coreen Slanec of Holland

5 Nancy and Steve Wessels of Holland

6 Jorie Sligh of Holland 7 Mary Joe DeJong with Bill and Judy Stellin, all of Grand Rapids

Truly touch

the hearts of those you love this Christmas Season. Spend an afternoon of meditation, relaxation and beauty. Stop by our coffee bar while you visit our newly expanded Visitors Center and Gift Shop. Our one of a kind Gift Shop offers an amazing, wide selection of: Inspirational Gifts, Nativity Sets, Christmas Gifts, Bibles & Prayer Books, Adult & Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Books, Rosaries, Inspirational Jewelry, Fine Jewelry, Inspirational Art, Carvings, Sculptures & much more. Gift Cards Available 6 visitshoremagazine.com 4

We are please to inform you that the net proceeds from your purchase sustains and supports the upkeep and maintenance of The Shrine of Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Passion.

10630 Wicker Avenue St. John, IN 46373 (219) 365-6010 www.shrineofchristspassion.org

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cruising in

krasl concours | st. joseph photography by gregg rizzo

A welcoming reception for the Sixth Annual Krasl Art Center Concours drew 65 guests who enjoyed refreshments and piano music and heard a presentation by Jack Telnack, a retired Ford Motor Co. vice president of design. The event attracted more than 90 vintage cars, trucks, motorcycles and bicycles.

1 Jerry and Midge Mills of Bloomfield Hills

2 Neil and Robin Loughlin of Ortonville 3 Ken and Karen MacKinnon of Freeland 4 Dave Marchioni of Detroit

5 Mario Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ovidio of Stevensville with Larry Prange of St. Joseph 6 Dorothy Trachte of St. Joseph

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lace and pearls la rabida lawn fête | chicago photography by tony favarula

More than 250 guests enjoyed a gourmet buffet prepared by Chicago’s finest chefs at La Rabida Children’s Hospital’s annual Lawn Fête. The event, held at La Rabida’s lakeside location, was designed to thank loyal supporters and welcome new ones. Guests were treated to live music and beverages by Goose Island. 1 Cindi Elstien, Valerie Ware and Kathy Berglund 2 Andres Fernandez, Deborah Rabeor, Steven Rabeor and Nuria Fernandez 3 Paula Jaudes with classical trio SugarStrings

4 Deborah and Bruce Pfaff with Lynne Pantalena and David Schmidt 5 Fred Berglund, Michael Schrage and Kathy Berglund

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teeing off

schu’s golf invitational | st. joseph photography by gregg rizzo

The American Cancer Society benefited from the event attended by 140 guests and participants in the 3rd Annual Schu’s Golf Invitational. A live auction capped off the event, which also featured on-course beverages, deluxe traveling lunch anda winner’s reception in “Schuler Family’’ style.

1 Cheryl MacDonald of St. Joseph

2 Krista Schuler of St. Joseph, Sam McDowell and Marlene Dicio of St. Joseph 3 Mary Wicks, George Waning and Amy Bleich-Heugel, all of St. Joseph 4 Krista Schuler and Marlene Dicio, both of St. Joseph, with Lisa Reynolds of Marshall

5 Miles and Joen Brambilla of St. Joseph 6 Nancy Mitchell and Linda O’Brien of Benton Harbor

essential events

happenings happenings 52 exhibitions 50 exhibitions 55 film 52 56 film 52 performance performance 56 52 interest 58

Nov 26 Christmas in Saugatuck/Douglas— Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 5pm, Wick’s Park Gazebo, Water St, Saugatuck. 269.857.1626. saugatuck.com

Saugatuck’s holiday season kicks off as more than 500,000 lights are illuminated in this annual ceremony. Attendees look forward to visits with Santa, free refreshments and the sounds of carolers at this festive event. Also, on Dec 4, 1pm: Saugatuck Christmas Parade; Dec 4, 5-7pm: Luminary Lane in Douglas. Carriage rides are available in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas throughout the season.

calendar compiled by juli doshan

happenings Indiana

Ongoing Sinai Forum, 3pm, Elston Middle School, 317 Detroit St, Michigan City. 219.531.4200. sinaiforum.org. This organization has been presenting its annual series of relevant and compelling speakers for more than 50 years. Dec 5: Dr. Gebisa Ejeta, “Food—The Shortage, Its Safety, the Future.” Nov 20 9th Annual Holiday Shopping Spree & Craft Show, 10am-3pm, Kahler Middle School, 600 Joliet St, Dyer. 219.865.2505. townofdyer.com. With over 100 vendors, this show offers the perfect way to do some holiday shopping while avoiding the mad rush at the mall. Past vendors have included Avon, Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Mary Kay and the Longaberger Company. Nov 26 4th Friday Arts, 6-9pm, Crown Point town square. 219.662.3290. 4thfridayarts.com. The historical downtown square of Crown Point is alive and active with the arts. Stroll through the town square and visit the local businesses that turn into artistic sanctuaries on a 4th Friday each quarter. See website or call for specific events.

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Nov 28-29 Christmas Craft Show, 9am-3pm, 2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. 219.762.1675. ci.portage.in.us. Christmas décor, handmade wearable art, unique holiday gifts, jewelry and pottery will be available at this popular craft show. Children can visit with Santa and attend a Christmas jewelry class. Admission is free, but canned good items for the Portage Food Pantry will be collected. Dec 3 Holly Days and Live Nativity, 5-7pm, downtown Valparaiso. 219.464.8332. popcornfest. org. Valparaiso kicks off its holiday season with this free family event, which offers caroling, a live nativity scene, hot refreshments, train rides, holiday shopping and Santa riding into town on a fire truck.

Dec 4 Hammond Holiday Parade, 10am, parade starts at Gavit High School, 1670 175th St, Hammond. 219.853.6378. gohammond.com. Start the holiday season by watching or participating in this fun event that features the New Generation Fancy Drill Team, four child actors from A Christmas Story as Grand Marshals, and area high school bands. Dec 4 Holiday Art Walk, 11am-5pm, downtown South Bend. 574.233.8400. circaartsgallery.com. Visitors can immerse themselves in a creative urban shopping experience as they explore nine galleries on the Colfax Avenue and Lincoln Way West Arts Corridors. Dec 4 Washington Park Official Holiday Lighting Ceremony, 4-6pm, Washington Park, 6 on the Lake, Michigan City. 219.873.1506. michigancityparks.com. With more than five million bulbs, this holiday tradition is the largest free drivethrough light exhibition in the Midwest. Dec 4-5 Christmas Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes, 4-8pm Sat, 1-5pm Sun, downtown LaPorte. 219.324.5087. peplaporte.org. Beautiful holiday décor, created by area florists and designers, is on elegant display at this tour of churches and private homes in LaPorte’s historic district. The event also includes a carriage ride, musical entertainment and refreshments. Dec 18 Winter Market, 11am-9pm, Crown Point Civic Center, 101 S East St, Crown Point. 219.662.3290. crownpoint.in.gov. This event, an offshoot of the Annual Farmers’ Market, offers holiday crafts, homemade jams and food items, seasonal coffees, local honey, artisan soaps and more. Visitors will be able to view festive decorations and lights in Crown Point aboard a trolley ride, which begins at dusk. Jan 22 8th Annual Gardening Show, 9am-4pm, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.3555 ext 21. pcgarden.info.

Sponsored by the Porter County Master Gardeners Association, this show features presentations by regional and local gardening experts, a seed and bulb exchange, a gardening photo contest, a juried plant show, more than 85 exhibitors and vendors of gardening products, and more.

Michigan

Nov 19 Luminary Festival, dusk-9pm, downtown St. Joseph. sjtoday.org. Downtown St. Joseph is aglow with the holiday spirit as 800 luminaries adorn the area. Shoppers may take advantage of seasonal activities, such as free horse-drawn trolley rides, holiday musical entertainment and refreshments from downtown merchants. Nov 20-Dec 12 Mistletoe Market, South Haven Center for the Arts, 600 Phoenix St, South Haven. 269.637.1041. southhaven.org. More than 50 local artists will provide their homemade, one-of-a-kind creations at this market, which will feature greeting cards, jewelry, pottery and photography. Nov 23-Jan 9 Christmas and Holiday Traditions around the World, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids. 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. This annual celebration includes more than 40 international trees, 300,000 lights, carolers, live entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, luminaries, Santa and more. New this year is a redesign of the Diwali display honoring the Hindu Festival of Lights, along with an enhanced display of Nativities, which includes a new Polish szopka. Nov 27 Downtown Holiday Homecoming, downtown Niles. 269.687.4332. nilesmainstreet. org. Watch the lighting of the tree and enjoy carriage rides, entertainment and shopping as the city of Niles celebrates the beginning of the holiday season.

photograph by felicia fairchilD

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.

Dec 4 Reindog Holiday Parade, noon, downtown St. Joseph. sjtoday.org. This unique Christmas parade—complete with bands, carolers and whimsical floats—will bring a smile to spectators’ faces as costumed pets and their owners escort Santa into town. Dec 11-19 Voigt House Tours, 10am5pm Sat, noon-5pm Sun, 115 College Ave SE, Grand Rapids. 616.929.1700. grmuseum.org. The Voigt House Victorian Museum will be open to the public during the Christmas season for tours. Guests will be able to walk through the elaborately decorated house, enjoy the holiday music in the Music Room and decorate an ornament to keep or add to the Voigt Christmas tree. Festive treats will also be on hand. Dec 31 2010 New Year’s Eve Parties, Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. 616.744.2000. amwaygrand.com. JW Marriott, 235 Louis Campau NW, Grand Rapids. 616.242.1479. ilovethejw.com. A joint New Year’s Eve party is taking place at two Grand Rapids hotels—the Amway Grand and the JW Marriott. Guests of either of these hotels—or the Downtown Courtyard—have access to both parties. Amway Grand’s party is of the classic variety, while the JW Marriott hosts an ’80s theme. Jan 14-16 7th Annual Hunter Ice Festival, downtown Niles. 269.687.4332. nilesmainstreet.org. This popular event pays tribute to the Hunter Brothers Ice and Ice Cream Company. The festival features ice sculptures, world-class ice carvers, an ice cream tasting tent, kids’ activities and more.

Illinois

Through Dec 1 The Midwest Independent Film Festival, 6pm, every first Tue, Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema, 2828 N Clark, Chicago. 312.642.4222. midwestfilm.com. Solely dedicated to the Midwest filmmaker, this year-round film festival presents audiences with regionally produced independent cinema. The price of admission includes access to the pre-show cocktail reception, the prestigious Producers Panel, the evening’s film and the after-party.

Nov 25 State Street Thanksgiving Day Parade, 8-11am, State St from Randolph to Congress, Chicago.

Nov 25-Dec 24 15th Annual Christkindlmarket, 11am-8pm Sun-Thu, 11am-9pm Fri-Sat, Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago. 312.494.2175. christkindlmarket.com/en. Situated in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Christkindlmarket is a holiday market fashioned after century-old markets in Germany. It features German and international vendors displaying handcrafted ornaments, toys, foods and other unique gifts. Most days, there will also be musical entertainment to put visitors into the holiday spirit. Dec 2-5 One of a Kind Show and Sale, noon-9pm Thu, 11am9pm Fri, 10am-7pm Sat, 10am-5pm Sun, 8th Floor, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago. 800.677.6728. oneofakindshowchicago.org. Chicago’s most exciting holiday shopping show and fine art and craft festival, the One of a Kind Show features original work from more than 500 juried artists and artisans from across North America. Works include unique paintings, sculptures, glass works, photography, ceramics, jewelry, furniture and wearable art. All proceeds from ticket sales on Thursday benefit Children’s Memorial Hospital. Dec 2-Jan 2 Winter Wonderfest, 10am-8pm Sun-Thu, 10am-10pm Fri-Sat, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago. 312.595.7437. winterwonderfest.com. This is the tenth annual year for this event, which features more than 750,000 holiday ornaments, hundreds of decorated trees, an indoor Ferris wheel, games, carolers and more. Dec 11, 18 Victorian Christmas Tour, 9-11am, Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park. 708.848.1976. gowright.org. As part of the Family Fun Day events, Victorian Christmas Tours highlight the beautifully decorated Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, and the 12-foot Christmas tree that adorns Wright’s famous playroom. Following the tour, visitors are invited to enjoy the festive ambience with music and free hot chocolate. Dec 18 Mayor Daley’s Sports Festival, 10am-4pm, McCormick Place, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.791.7000. chicagosportsfest.us. Since 2000, Mayor Daley’s Holiday Sports Fest has attracted 85,000 people a year to McCormick Place. Featuring sporting tournaments (pre-registration required) and interactive play zones, this free two-day event is the perfect way to get in some sporting fun on a winter day. There will also be demonstrations and a performance by the Harlem Globetrotters. Jan 12-16 Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show, 2-9pm Wed, 11am-9pm Thu-Fri, 10am-9pm Sat, 10am-5pm Sun, McCormick Place— North Building, 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. chicagoboatshow.com. Now in its 81st year, the largest show of its kind in the Midwest features more than 350,000 square feet of the latest models and accessories. Highlights include Rail Jam, Ultimate Camp Cooking Show, DockDogs Competition, Huck Finn Trout Pond for children and an affordability pavilion.

December 2010/January 2011

Nov 17 Latke-palooza, 6:30pm, Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, 610 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 312.322.1700. spertus.edu. An evening with Chef Laura Frankel, founder of Shallots restaurant, will lead to many samples and variations on the traditional potato and onion latke. Guests will take home recipes, as well as tips on which oils to use, how to simplify preparation, and how to store and serve their new treats.

chicagofestivals.org. More than 400,000 visitors are expected to line the route for this annual televised event, which features marching bands, equestrian units, floats, performance groups, celebrities and everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving parade staple: enormous helium balloons.

Nov 27 Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony, parade 12:30pm, Santa 1-3pm, tree lighting 6:30pm, New Buffalo. newbuffalo.com. The Holiday Parade with Santa begins at Harbor Grand, travels down Whittaker Street with floats created by residents and businesses, and ends at the New Buffalo Fire Station. After the parade, children can see Santa. The tree lighting ceremony, with caroling and hot chocolate, takes place at the corner of Whittaker and Mechanic Streets as luminaries decorated by New Buffalo Elementary and St. Mary of the Lake School students light up the streets.

essential events Jan 27-30 16th Annual Strictly Sail Chicago, 11am-8pm Thu-Fri, 9am-7pm Sat, 9am-4pm Sun, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago. 312.595.5700. strictlysail.com. More than 20,000 sailing enthusiasts are expected at the largest indoor sailboat show in the country, which features the latest sailboats, gear and accessories, as well as seminars, interactive displays and special events.

exhibitions Indiana

Through Feb 13 Beyond the Arches— Selected Works from McDonald’s Corporate Art Collection, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W 2nd St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. For more than 30 years, McDonald’s has been an enthusiastic supporter of emerging artists. This collection spans decades and includes contemporary works by regional, national and international artists. Nov 19: Opening reception. Dec 19-Jan 30 Displaying Native American Arts—Student Selections from the Permanent Collection, Snite Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame. 574.631.5466. nd.edu/~sniteart. Notre Dame students serve as guest curators and choose pieces from the permanent collection for this exhibit, which portrays the diversity of Native American art. Also, Jan 9-Feb 27: The Feddersen Collection of Rembrandt Etchings.

Michigan

Through Dec 5 Wondrous Ink— Selections from the Richard Fabian Collection, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 269.349.7775. kiarts.org. Hanging scrolls, painted fans and illustrated albums make up two exhibits with selections from the Richard Fabian Collection, a distinguished and extensive private collection of Chinese art. Both exhibits will showcase landscape and figurative paintings, along with brilliant examples of the art of calligraphy. Also, through Dec 12: Light Works—Photographs from the Collection; through Jan 2: In Focus—National Geographic’s Greatest Portraits; through Jan 2: A Passion for Collecting—Prints of the 1960s and ’70s from the Collins Collection; Dec 11-Apr 24: Ukiyo-e Redux—Contemporary Japanese Prints; Dec 18-Apr 10: Familiar Surroundings; Jan 15-Apr 17: The Wyeths—America’s Artists. Through Jan 2 Let It Snow, Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. Reflecting the world outside, this members’ show features artwork with a winter theme carefully arranged in the Heartha Whitlow Gallery. Also, through Jan 2: Trains, Cars, Boats and Planes.

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Through Jan 2 Sculptors Celebrate the Legacy of Fred and Lena Meijer, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline NE, Grand Rapids. 616.957.1580 or 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. One of the world’s foremost collections of Modern and Contemporary sculpture will adorn the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in honor of its namesake and his wife. New works from sculptors highlighted in the permanent collection— including Louise Bourgeois, Mark di Suvero, Tom Otterness and Claes Oldenburg—will be on display. Through Feb 16 Diana—A Celebration, Grand Rapids Art Museum, 1010 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids. 616.831.1000. artmuseumgr.org. The life and humanitarian

work of one of the 20th century’s most remarkable women will be on display at this award-winning exhibition. The exhibit features more than 150 personal objects that belonged to Diana, Princess of Wales, including her royal wedding gown, 28 designer dresses, family heirlooms, personal mementos and rare home movies. Nov 20-May 1 Bodies Revealed, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids. 616.456.3977. grmuseum. org. Each gallery of this exhibit uses 14 full body specimens and more than 200 organs to tell the story of the amazing systems at work within the human body every second of the day. Carefully dissected, the bodies reveal the function and relationship of a complete anatomical system to the body as a whole, while presentation cases of related organs provide an even more detailed look into the elements that make up each system.

Illinois

Through Dec 12 Looking After Louis Sullivan, Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 317.443.3600. artic.edu/aic. This exhibit, which features more than 60 photographs, 20 Sullivan drawings and sketches, and terra-cotta and metal architectural fragments, showcases the innovative, 19th-century architecture of Louis Sullivan through the photography of John Szarkowski, Aaron Siskind and Richard Nickel. Also, through Jan 2: Ballplayers, Gods and Rainmaker Kings—Masterpieces from Ancient Mexico; through Jan 2: Gray Collection—Seven Centuries of Art; through Jan 9: Lewis Baltz Prototypes/ Ronde de Nuit; Dec 11-Jul 20: Hyperlinks— Architecture and Design. Through Jan 23 Jim Henson’s Fantastic World, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St & Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 773.947.3730. msichicago.org. This rare peek into the imagination of Jim Henson features 100 original artworks, including drawings, cartoons and storyboards. These works, along with photographs, documents, puppets and film, represent Henson’s process of “visual thinking” that he used to create his iconic characters, shows and movies. Through Jan 31 Steelroots—Tobin at the Morton Arboretum, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Ill Rte 53, Lisle. 630.968.0074. mortonarb.org. This exhibit marks the first-ever comprehensive display of the Steelroots sculpture series by Steve Tobin. It is made up of 15 dramatic sculptures created with massive rolled and bent steel pipes that soar up to 40 feet high so visitors are free to touch, walk through and even lie beneath the artwork. Through March 6 Gold, The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.9410. fieldmuseum.org. One of the rarest and most prized minerals in the world, this exhibit features gold’s natural beauty, scientific value and power to shape history. Crystallized gold, gold bullion, coins from shipwrecks, gold bars and exquisite jewelry are just some of the artifacts on display, while interactive facets allow visitors to explore a goldmine, feel the excitement of the gold rush and determine the value of their weight in gold. Also, through Nov 28: Climate Change. Nov 18-Jan 9 Christmas around the World and Holidays of Light, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St & Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 773.684.1414. msichicago.org. A grand 45-foot Christmas tree will take center stage in the museum’s Rotunda, and more than 50 other trees will be decorated to represent cultures from around the world. Dance and choral

groups will perform on the Holiday Stage and “snow” will fall on visitors as they walk along the decked halls. Jan 29-May 29 Jim Nutt—Coming into Character, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago.org. This exhibit will be the first major presentation of Jim Nutt’s work—which focuses on female heads in spare line drawings and rich, detailed paintings—in more than 10 years. Drawing from many inspirations, not limited to Henri Matisse, Max Ernst and H. C. Westermann, Nutt’s work shows the maturity he has gained over more than four decades of artistic development. Also, through Jan 9: Luc Tuymans; through Feb 6: Uncontested Territory; through Apr 3: Urban China— Informal Cities; Nov 20-May 1: Without You I’m Nothing—Art and Its Audience.

film Indiana

Cinemark at Valparaiso, 700 Porter’s Vale Blvd, Valparaiso. 219.464.0260. cinemark.com. This theater has 12 screens and digital sound, and the all-stadium seating has comfortable chairs that rock to your comfort. Portage 16 IMAX, 6550 US Hwy 6, Portage. 219.764.7569. portage16imax.com. The 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 surroundsound system, this theater offers a totalimmersion moviegoing experience.

Michigan

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 center—renamed in 2000 for its most passionate supporter, the late film critic Gene Siskel—has been exhibiting critically acclaimed, as well as entertaining “motion picture art” in its state-of-theart 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. 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.

performance Indiana

Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. ctgonline. org. Now in its 56th 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 theatre classes for both adults and children. Nov 19-Dec 4: Annie; Dec 10-19: A Tuna Christmas; Jan 28-Feb 12: The Drawer Boy.

DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Campus. 574.631.2800. performingarts. nd.edu. The state-of-the-art, 150,000-square-foot facility, newly opened in 2004, is host to some of the world’s most celebrated artists. In addition, its stages showcase student, faculty and community performers, as well as the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Southold Dance, the Notre Dame Symphony, the South Bend Civic Theatre, and more. Through Nov 21: Boy Gets Girl; Nov 18-20: Addicted; Dec 3-4: Messiah; Dec 9-12: A Kodachrome Christmas; Jan 20-22: Evidence, A Dance Company; Jan 29: Dave Holland Quintet. 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. Nov 26-28: A Tuna Christmas. Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond. 866.711.7463. horseshoehammond.com. World-class gambling and top-name entertainment combine to create an unprecedented experience at this 350,000-squarefoot casino. The Venue, the casino’s 90,000-square-foot entertainment facility, hosts some of the hottest Chicagoland entertainment. Nov 16: B.B. King; Nov 19: Norm MacDonald; Nov 20: Thanos Petrelis; Dec 17: John Legend; Jan 21: Chubby Checker. 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. Dec 1-2, 4: The Nutcracker Ballet. The Memorial Opera House, 104 E Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. memorialoperahouse.com. As the name suggests, this renovated, 364-seat building—with red, white and blue stainedglass 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, including appearances by John Philip Sousa and the Marx Brothers. Dec 3-19: A Wonderful Life. 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. Nov 20: South Bend Symphony Orchestra, “Music from the Heart”; Dec 11-12: Southold Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker; Dec 16: The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller; Dec 18-19: South Bend Symphony Orchestra, “Home for the Holidays”; Dec 20: The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Show; Jan 14-15: Fiddler on the Roof; Jan 22: South Bend Symphony Orchestra, “Russian Dreams.” Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 219.836.0525. nwisymphony.org. Conducted by the charismatic Kirk Muspratt, this professional orchestra performs concerts that range in atmosphere from the whimsical pops series to the edifying and inspirational maestro series, many of which offer preconcert discussions with the conductor an hour before the concert. Dec 5: Handel’s Messiah; Dec 9: Holiday Pops.

essential events

The Theatre at the Center, Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter.com. This facility, 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 Dec19: It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. towletheater.org. To honor its mission of nurturing and celebrating local talent in the arts, the Towle Community Theater presents exhibitions, theatrical productions and musical performances in the heart of downtown Hammond. Nov 26-28, Dec 3-4, 10-12,17-19: A Fabulous ’50s Christmas.

Michigan

The Acorn Theater, 6 N Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.3879. acorntheater.com. The 250-seat Acorn is home to a carefully reconstructed, rare Barton Theater Pipe Organ and boasts bistro tables and occasionally offbeat entertainment options. Nov 19: Switchback; Nov 26: Sean Masterson and the Village Puppeteers; Dec 18: Christmas at the Acorn. Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. The Berrien Artist Guild has converted an old box factory into a multidisciplinary arts resource, housing galleries, studios, an art shop and a café. Visitors also can take advantage of the Box Factory as an entertainment venue, attending stage performances by singers, musicians, poets and actors. Nov 20: Just Listen; Nov 27: Uphill Climb; Dec 4: Espresso—The Holiday Brew; Dec 11: Riversong Music Society Showcase.

Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 269.349.7759. kalamazoosymphony.com. Founded in 1921, this outstanding ensemble entertains the Kalamazoo area with a

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. Nov 20: Charlene Jones-Clark; Nov 24: Greensky Bluegrass; Nov 26: Chuck Jagers & Venitia Sekema Band; Dec 4: David Grier; Dec 19: Paul Mow & Friends Holiday Concert. 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. Nov 19: Axiom Brass; Dec 11: Season’s Greetings. 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. Dec 3: Michael Bublé; Dec 7: Ozzy Osbourne; Dec 29: Trans-Siberian Orchestra; Jan 12-16: Cirque du Soleil, Dralion. West Michigan Symphony, Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts, 425 W Western Ave, Muskegon. 231.727.8001. westmichigansymphony.org. With eight pairs of concerts a year, the West Michigan Symphony has played a leading role in the region’s cultural community for almost 70 years. It has helped bring a renewed vitality and life to the center of Muskegon and with it, the historic Frauenthal Theater, a 1,729-seat venue with extraordinary beauty, excellent acoustics and sight lines. Dec 1011: The Sights and Sounds of the Season.

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 theater since 1889, the Auditorium continues to provide unparalleled ballet performances and a variety of artistic productions. Dec 10-26: Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker; Jan 15-16: Too Hot to Handel—The Jazz Gospel Messiah. The Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W 111th St, Chicago. 773.445.3838. beverlyartcenter.org. Founded in 1967, this institution has enjoyed more than 30 years of exposing Chicago’s South and Southwest Sides to a comprehensive program of cultural enrichment, including the performing arts, education, film and fine-art exhibitions. The center recently moved into a new, 40,000-square-foot facility, an arts complex that houses a 410seat mainstage, a dance studio, art gallery, classrooms, café and gift shop. Dec 16-18: Excerpts from The Nutcracker; Dec 18: The Buckinghams Christmas Show. 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. Dec 15-Jan 2: Irving Berlin’s White Christmas; Jan 18-31: 9 to 5—The Musical. Broadway Playhouse, 175 E Chestnut. Through Dec 19: Traces. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph. Through Nov 27: The Lion King; Dec 1-Jan 23: Wicked. Ford Center for the Performing Arts/Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph. Through Nov 28: Billy Elliot the Musical. 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 worldclass performing arts productions and arts education. Dec 2: The Church Ladies Away in the Basement; Jan 15: Lurrie Bell’s Chicago Blues Band. 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, new in 1999, houses both an engaging, 500-seat courtyard theater and a 200-seat black box theater. Jan 5-Mar 6: As You Like It; Jan 21-Feb 13: Funk It Up About Nothin’; Jan 22-Mar 5: Short Shakespeare! 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. Nov 21: Earth’s Wilderness—The Final Frontier; Jan 15-17: A Dream Unfolds. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, Chicago. 312.462.6300. thechicagotheatre.com. The Chicago Theatre has been a prototype for area theaters since 1921. With its lavish architecture and an elegant stage, the Chicago Theatre seats 3,600 and stands seven stories high. Nov 26-27: John Mellencamp; Dec 4: Dave Koz, A Smooth Jazz Christmas; Dec 11: Straight No Chaser; Dec 17-18: Jerry Seinfeld; Dec 19: Joe Satriani; Dec 31: Kevin Hart. Court Theatre, 5535 S Ellis Ave, Chicago. 773.753.4472. courttheatre.org. The Court Theatre is a not-for-profit, professional regional theater that is located on the campus of the University of Chicago. Its mission to “discover the power of classic theater” is realized in its intimate, 251-seat auditorium. Through Dec 12: Home; Jan 13-Feb 13: Three Tall Women. 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. Nov 19-Dec 31: A Christmas Carol; Dec 3-31: The Nativity; Jan 15-Feb 20: The Trinity River Plays. 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-theart theater guarantees that the audience will enjoy a wide variety of performances in an intimate setting. Dec 2-5: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago; Dec 7: Music of the Baroque; Dec 8: Holiday Pops; Dec 14: A John Waters Christmas; Dec 19: Handel’s Messiah; Jan 11: Laurie Anderson; Jan 20: The Great Summit; Jan 24: Haydn and Mozart; Jan 28-29: Pilobolus. 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. Nov 15-Dec 10: A Masked Ball; Dec 6-Jan 21: The Mikado; Jan 22-Feb 21: The Girl of the Golden West. 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. Nov 19-21: Creative Music Summit; Dec 19: JASC Tsukasa Taiko— Taiko Legacy 7; Jan 14-16: Betontanc and Umka LV—Show Your Face!; Jan 22: eighth blackbird—PowerFUL/LESS. 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 new Mainstage and Studio theaters, comedy at Zanies Comedy Club, and live music, entertainment, art exhibits and shopping at its own version of Bourbon Street. Through Dec 26: It’s a Wonderful Life—A Live Radio Play. 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. Dec 2-Feb 6: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?; Jan 20-May 15: Sex with Strangers. Victory Gardens Theater, various venues. 773.871.3000. victorygardens.org. As one of the country’s most respected midsized professional theater companies, this Tony Award-winning theater is dedicated to serving playwrights and producing world premiere plays. Programs include five mainstage productions with emphasis placed on the development of an ethnically and culturally diverse community of arts. Nov 26-Dec 31: It’s a Wonderful Life—Live at the Biograph!; Jan 21-Feb 20: The Boys Room.

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

December 2010/January 2011

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. Nov 19-20: Orff’s Carmina Burana; Dec 16-19: Holiday Pops; Dec 22-23: Cirque de Noel with Cirque de la Symphonie; Dec 31: A Rat Pack New Year’s Eve; Jan 6-8: Schubert’s Unfinished; Jan 14-15: Stravinsky’s The Firebird; Jan 28-30: A Salute to John Williams.

classical subscription series, annual holiday presentations, chamber orchestra concerts, free summer park concerts and various educational programs. Nov 19: Classical Mystery Tour (Beatles Tribute); Dec 18-19: Messiah; Jan 15: Verdi’s Requiem; Jan 29: Endless Summer (Beach Boys Tribute).

Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. starplazatheatre. com. With 3,400 seats arranged in two intimate seating levels, the theater consistently hosts premier performers year-round. With its convenient location in the heart of Northwest Indiana’s shopping and dining district and its proximity to the adjoining Radisson Hotel, the Star Plaza offers a total entertainment package to area theatergoers. Nov 18: Cats; Nov 20: Ron White; Nov 27: The O’Jays & the Whispers; Dec 3: The Irish Tenors Christmas Show; Dec 4: Bill Maher; Dec 11: Grease; Dec 12: Jim Brickman Christmas Show; Dec 16: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas; Dec 18: Sinbad; Dec 19: Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Show; Dec 31: Damon Williams’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Bash.

six artists, multiple media Words By Megan sWoyer \\ PhotograPhy By tony V. Martin

An undulating sand dune, an antiquated tin ceiling tile, a comfortable chair, a colorful beach umbrella, a sunflower’s center, a dog’s mirrored reflection . . . these are the inspirations for some of the region’s best artists. They recognize an object’s potential through details, shapes, textures and colors, observing the ordinary and the extraordinary and finding in them much to be excited about. They also see in themselves a deep desire to share their views and perspectives with others. • Their world has no limits. Photographs can magically appear to be a painting. Bits of colorful paper turn into a summery beach scene. Chunks of marble take on recognizable, organic forms. And things we may have never noticed before—an old ceiling tile, for example—transform into breathtaking art. • Here, the artists share a glimpse of their world, from the inside, out . . .

the

makers

art abloom

s this issue was going to press, sculptor Fritz Olsen was putting the finishing touches on a largescale sculpture for the Jefferson County Courthouse in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Made of marble, the piece features magnificent vertical ribbons—some of the more recent shapes about which Olsen has become passionate. “Their forms are influenced by nature, the undulations of wind and water, and the female form.” He also is enchanted with organic shapes, such as a sunflower’s petal or stem, or a wildflower’s blossom. You might say the artist has been blooming in new ways himself these past 15 years, since his move from downtown Chicago to rural Sawyer, Michigan. Working out of a gorgeous and historic (1930s) former azalea nursery, the sculptor basks in growth. “There’s space, acreage, here,” says his wife and gallery director Martha Cares, a professional See hiS work: vocalist. “He has At Fritz Olsen Sculptures Studio breathing room.” As and Gallery, by the climate and site appointment were conducive for the (6914 Holloway coveted and awardDr, Sawyer, Mich., 269.426.3003). winning Sawyer azaleas, Works are also disso they continue to be played in Michigan for Olsen. at the Krasl Art Working with Center in St Joseph, Lakeland Hospital marble (his first love), in Benton Harbor, granite, onyx and other and the City Center materials, Olsen, who in Dowagiac; and translates many items in Illinois at the Frankfort Public Liinto cast bronze, has brary and the Kohl created works that are Children’s Museum displayed throughout of Greater Chicago. the nation. His signature sunflowers (or other wildflowers) can be intimate in size (something to enjoy in your living room) or massive—up to, say, 20 feet tall. “My sunflower drawings came to life after moving my studio to Sawyer,” Olsen says. Texture and shape curiosities have defined the artist since he was young, explains his wife. “His talents are innate,” she says. “When he was supposed to be casting machine parts in an industrial-design class in college,” Cares explains with a laugh, “he was creating nudes.”

Fritz Olsen

sculptOr \\ sawyer, Mich. Media: marble, granite, onyx and other materials

Julie schwarz

phOtOgrapher \\ sawyer, Mich. Medium: polaroid photography

instant

love J

6 visitshoremagazine.com 5

ulie Schwarz spent 13 years seeing the notso-pretty side of life as a rape counselor in northern Michigan and as a consultant for the Area Agency on Aging in Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana. “The work affected my mental and physical health,” Schwarz recalls. So, in her mid 30s, Schwarz quit her career in social work and decided to spend a summer in Montana learning photography at the Rocky Mountain School of Photography. Talk about a 180. From that point forward, the fledgling photographer was all about the search for beauty. In 2001, Schwarz created what she calls her first “hand-smushed” photos. “My husband found an old Polaroid camera at a garage sale and bought it for me. I played around with it and read up on hand-manipulated photography and art. The clouds parted, the angels sang, that was it,” she says with See her work: a laugh. Today, the owner At the Local Color of some twenty Polaroid Art Gallery (16187 cameras uses cuticle sticks, Red Arrow Hwy, golf tees and her own Union Pier, Mich., 269.469.5332, fingernails to “smush” localcolorartgallery. her just-taken photo’s com) or call emulsion around the 269.469.5842 to surface. “It’s liquidy, like find out about upcoming art fairs. jelly, beneath the surface,” she says, “so the end result ends up looking like an impressionist painting.” The images are scanned and various sizes are then made. Her frames, made by her husband from old barn wood from buildings around Harbor Country, make the artwork even more intriguing. Using antiquated cameras, the artist has undoubtedly found her niche. “The film is no longer being made, so I’ve put a lot in the refrigerator,” she says, adding that a group from the Netherlands (former Polaroid employees) is attempting to bring the film back into production. As for Schwarz’s former career, now that she’s found the beautiful side of life, she doesn’t mind that she recently started a new job part-time at the St. Joe Region IV Area Agency on Aging as an education coordinator. “The job partly funds my artwork,” she says with a laugh, before heading out with her dogs to look for new subjects, new pictures, new ideas.

neil Kienitz

painter \\ Michigan city, ind. Media: watercolor, oil and acrylic

december 2010/January 2011

Visitors Bureau, all in Michigan City, Ind.

peaceful, easy feeling

hen Neil Kienitz was a young boy growing up in Michigan City, one of his favorite pastimes was drawing. “I distinctly remember being very interested in art at the age of 6 and by the time I was 8, there was no doubt in my mind that I would be an artist,” says Kienitz, who works in numerous styles that are fairly traditional as well as representational. “I remember drawing a scarecrow in first grade . . . I said to myself, ‘This is different than everything else we’ve been doing. I really like it.’” At times, Kienitz uses gouache and colored pencils in his works. “Gouache, which is an opaque medium, makes watercolor passages look even more transparent than what they already are,” he explains. The artist, whose studio and gallery is on the second floor of his home, paints everything from landscapes and portraits to murals and commercial commissions. He captures the simple beauty of a multi-shaped gatepost, the silence of a few lone pumpkins in a winter field, and the meringuelike tips of glistening Lake Michigan sand dunes. “My talent is a gift from God,” he says. “There’s no question about that. It’s not that I deserve See hiS work: At his studio, by it. He uses my work to further appointment the Gospel.” Kienitz’s landscapes (423 E 10th St, convey a feeling of calm. “Peace is 219.872.0206, really what most people long for neilkienitz.com), at the Lubeznik Center but don’t want to admit to, because for the Arts and that is not the way our world the LaPorte County operates nowadays.” Convention and

lOri Daniels

tin artist \\ Mapleton, ill. Medium: glazes

Hitting tHe

tin ceiling

and around 2002, she invented a glaze that caused a spectacular chemical reaction on the tins, making them look as if they were fired tile. “I was inspired by the antique tiles and pottery that I collect [multi-hued Majolica is a favorite]. That was my ‘aha’ moment.” The glazed tins, which resemble modern relief sculpture, have themes that range from vineyard to angelic to women’s faces to botanical and more. Daniels reclaims, cleans and glazes the pieces in a variety of rich hues and contrasts and then assembles them in various layouts. “These tins give a whole new generation of people a chance to look at something that’s usually 20 feet up in the air, to look at chemical changes, what happens to things,” Daniels says. “A lot of these historical ceilings are torn down and destroyed—I try to save and restore these pieces of history.” Her works are in private collections, commercial buildings, and galleries in Colorado, California, New York, New Mexico, Florida, Massachusetts and beyond. “I think about art in my sleep; I can’t wait to get up and get outside,” she says. “Nothing interests me as much as being in the garden, in nature, painting. I consider it a blessing.”

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rom March through November, artist Lori Daniels, owner of Antique Tin Expressions, sets up her studio outside her home in central Illinois near Mapleton. The owner of a big, beautiful 1870s farmhouse, Daniels works in her gardens under a canopy in front of her carriage house. “I start at 4 a.m.,” she says. “I have lots of tables and I hand-mix paints—my colors are unusual.” Those paints eventually make their way to Daniels’ “canvases,” which are actually antique ceiling tins. None are ever the same, because, she says, “I can’t redo my own recipe.” The sounds and sights that surround her worksite inspire her “color recipes.” “I have lots See h er work: At her of antiques, pottery, ceramics, dogs, kitties, and I home and studio, Antique like to listen to the leaves rustling and the birds.” Tin Expressions (Mapleton, The idea to paint the ceiling tiles came to her Ill., 309.565.4876, after she had been an antiques dealer for some antiquetinexpressions.net). Daniels’ work can also be 25 years. “I had collected piles of ceiling tin,” found at Thistle Gallery she recalls, “barns full of tin.” The creative muse in Holland, Mich., and dabbled with various tin-painting techniques the Vale Craft Gallery and Lotton Gallery in Chicago. Also view her work at lustregallery.com.

paper

chase

painter \\ saugatuck/ Kalamazoo, Mich. Media: oil paint and paper

MaryJO leMansKi

december 2010/January 2011

aryjo Lemanski began painting professionally after she received her MA from Western Michigan University in 1984. “My work has revolved around beach scenes and the color, composition, pattern and movement that comes from beach lovers, umbrellas, beach towels and such,” she says. “I work from photographs that I have taken or use found photos that I combine to create the visual information that I need to create the work.” Lemanski uses three techniques—oil paints, collage from found magazine paper, and monotypes, which are prints created by painting on Plexiglas with oil paint and then run through a print press. “I also combine collage with my oil paintings and monotypes,” adds the artist, who previously was a museum educator at See her work: the Kalamazoo At the Water Street Institute of Arts Gallery (98 Center for 24 years, St, Douglas, Mich., teaching painting 269.857.8485, waterstreetgallery.com). and drawing to children and adults. She bought the Water Street Gallery in Douglas, Michigan, in 2005. “I enjoy the mix of being a gallery dealer and an artist,” she says. “It is the best of all worlds.” When you look at one of Lemanski’s collage works, it’s easy to get happily lost in the textures, to wander down lanes of patterns, colors and forms that translate into shapes and scenes. But not only does the viewer become entranced, so does the creator. “The process of cutting and pasting each piece of paper is meditative,” Lemanski says. “The endless possibilities of color connections and suggested images motivate me to spend hours manipulating these tiny pieces.”

designs

on living

s a former owner of a clothing shop, interior designer Constance “Hattie” Bowman came to home design from being immersed in the world of materials and patterns. “I was at a point where I wanted to do something different,” she recalls. “I found that selling clothes wasn’t my thing, but I truly had a love of fabric. There’s such a crossover between fashion and home furnishings.” Inspired by a couple of designer acquaintances and her background in art and design, Hattie (she

cOnstance “hattie” BOwMan interiOr Designer \\ Valparaiso, ind.

likes to be called Hattie, which was her grandmother’s name) eventually opened Hattie Smith Interior Design. She calls her design style traditional with an edge, or transitional. “I have a signature piece that goes in to most of the houses I do—a wooden dog bench,” she says with a laugh. Her style also is committed to a generally neutral, soft palette, and sophisticated comfort. “There are places for bright color, but I limit it to small areas.” That’s also true in her own home, a 1927 English Tudor that friends say looks perfect for Hansel and Gretel. Hattie, a fan of English and French furnishings, not only offers design services (she has clients throughout North America and in the Caribbean), but also has a showroom store. “I love furniture; I was one of those kids that was always rearranging my bedroom,” she recalls. These days, friends accuse her of getting rid of items regularly, but that’s because she likes to make room for new acquisitions. Two things Hattie will never part with? A couple of creamcolored matching chairs she bought in North Carolina. “They’re traditional, but monochromatic with fringe, tassels, lots of embellishments,” she says. “They’re the kind of chairs you never want to get out of.”

See h er work: At hattiesmith.com, or visit the Hattie Smith Interior Design showroom (2205 Roosevelt Rd, Valparaiso, 219.477.1717).

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Party

for every

Budget By ChrIsty L. BOnsteLL

december 2010/January 2011

One of the most cherished things about the holidays are the warm and decadent parties that we both attend and host. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance to bond with friends over good food, tasty beverages and delightful conversation.

Under $300

f you’re working on a tight budget, the first thing you need to consider is the number of guests you’ll be inviting and the type of party you’re hosting, says Patty Coen, owner of Great Chicago Events and adjunct professor at Lexington College. “For under $300 you’re not going to be able to have very many people, and you’re going to have to be creative and do a lot of your own decorating,” she says. To host a larger group of people, consider an open-house-style event. “It’s something that allows for an open flow and for you to enjoy yourself. It allows guests to arrive and mingle and leave when they need,” says Robyn Bruns, owner of Red Letter Event Planning in Chicago. “I would just keep it really simple with hearty dips and simple appetizers. Make things look fancier than they really are.” Use martini glasses or shot glasses to serve appetizers in to make things appear more costly than they are. Also, with a tight budget, limit alcohol to beer and wine or an alcoholic punch. To keep decorating inexpensive but classy, work with the existing decor in your home and keep the theme monochromatic. Purchase mums all in the same color and distribute them in vases all over your home.

Also, consider a unique main dish, like a baked pumpkin filled with vegetables or soup, that serves as both sustenance and a centerpiece, Coen says. Lighting can help to elevate the look of an otherwise inexpensive party. Candles cost very little but, combined with dim lighting, can make a huge impact. Another open house suggestion is to ditch dinner altogether and go straight to dessert, says Cyndi Basker, owner of Celebrated Events in South Bend. Begin the buffet with a coffee and hot chocolate station complete with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, rock candy sticks and a cordial or two (Baileys and Kahlua are good options). Making some of the desserts yourself will save money, but if the budget allows, visit a local bakery and buy a few of their goodies. Cupcakes are all the rage, easy to make, and can be topped with crushed candy canes or anything that suits your fancy, she says. If you’re set on serving a full dinner, invite only eight to ten guests and choose a simple menu based on in-season or on-sale meat and produce. Ask guests to bring a bottle of wine that has meaning for them and share those stories around the dinner table, suggests Nicole Muyskens, director/owner of Elegant Events of West Michigan, LLC, in Grand Rapids and Saugatuck. Set the table with linens and servingware borrowed from relatives, she says. And decorate with branches and pinecones found in your backyard and dressed up with candles and ribbon.

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$300-$1,000

hrowing a party in this range allows you to take some of the pressure off of yourself, Coen says. With a little legwork you can likely find a good bartender and culinary

student to help you prepare food and drinks on the night of the event. Another inexpensive option is using rental services for your barware or even linens. This way you can enjoy your party without having to worry about all of the dishes and laundry you’ll need to do later, and you won’t need to buy and store additional pieces. For an open house Bruns suggests foodtasting stations like a chili bar, mashed potato bar and dessert bar. Another unique option would be a fondue and champagne party, which will serve around fifty people. Set up pre-loaded skewers for the cheese fondue and serve fruit for the chocolate fondue dessert, Basker says. For a sit-down dinner, Muyskens suggests keeping it to no more than ten people, even with an increased budget. Instead of increasing the number of guests, concentrate on increasing the elegance of the event and the quality of the food and drink. “I like to keep it to eight to ten people, so that you can spend more time

photography [this page and previous page] by tOny V. MArtIn; photo styling by CynDI BAsKer OF CeLeBrAteD eVents

It’s easy to get lost in the memories of parties past and visions of parties future, but there are details of parties present that hold less delight. • Like the budget. • After all, no one wants to put a price tag on a gathering of loved ones. But it’s a necessity. • No matter if your budget is under $300, between $300 and $1,000, or over $1,000, Shore has tips on how to make that budget work for you.

Over $1,000

f you’re struggling with your budget, but really want to throw a party, there may be another option, Coen says. Consider throwing your holiday party after the holidays. January can get pretty dreary after the glitter of the celebratory season, so a party will be a welcome respite from the chilly boredom. And, your guests will feel less stressed with the holiday shopping and party-hopping behind them. Also, anything holiday-themed will be on sale. No matter the budget, there are some party constants. “What I think is most important is that guests feel immediately welcome when they come in the door. Make it very obvious where they should go. I think the most important thing is that as the host you are relaxed and not feeling frenetic. Try to be very welcoming and relax,” Basker says. “Enjoy your friends.”

more shore

For festive cocktail and appetizer recipes from our party planners, please go to visitshoremagazine.com.

Party Planners Angie Anderson Belle Behind the Ball Mishawaka, Ind. 574.855.1274. bellebehindtheball.com Cyndi Basker Celebrated events 1314 Mishawaka Ave South Bend, Ind. 574.287.1423. celebrated-events.com robyn Bruns red Letter event Planning Chicago, Ill. 773.266.0601. redlettereventplanning.com Patty Coen Great Chicago events 3523 N Racine #1W Chicago, Ill. 773.871.2405. greatchicagoevents.com nicole Muyskens elegant events of West Michigan, LLC 900 Lake St Saugatuck, Mich. 1535 Edward Ave SE Grand Rapids, Mich. 269.277.0482. elegantevents-mi.com

december 2010/January 2011

t all starts with an impressive and elegant invite, says Angie Anderson, owner of Belle Behind the Ball in Mishawaka. At this price point you may want to consider setting up an inexpensive website with all of the party information for your guests. To really show off your financial dedication to the party, hire a planner who can help you coordinate everything. You’ll also want to hire a florist, caterer, band or DJ, bartender and, for extra flair and points with your guests, a valet service, Bruns says. After all, no one wants to walk through the snow in a nice dress and heels. “Keep in mind your guests’ comfort. Make sure they are being accommodated. Food is really important. Everybody loves good food,” Anderson says. “A well-planned party—your guests can tell the difference. A well-thoughtout event is a successful event.” When money is no object, the world of party-throwing opens up to you. Lighting can completely transform your home into another space. A lighting company can work with what lights you have to take your home from functional to fantastic, Bruns says. For a sit-down dinner, pull out the big guns. Hire servers to plate the food and serve lobster and steak. Later in the evening put out petits fours and a coffee and hot chocolate bar, Muyskens says. Have the menu done by a calligrapher and buy small frames that match your decor to put photos of the guests in. Use these to designate where a guest should sit. For an open house, try a cocktail party, with the goal being to introduce guests to new cocktails, Basker says. Hire a bartender to mix up these magnificent libations for your guests to enjoy while they nosh on exquisitely prepared appetizers and small plates. Print out and display the recipe of each beverage so guests know what they are ordering.

Any budget

with each guest,” she says. She also encourages hosts to keep as much of the party homemade as possible. It makes the event feel special, she says.

Diana our fascination By Pat Colander

101 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids. 616.831.1000 artmuseumgr.org

Princess Diana's love of clothing contributed to her rapid coronation as a style icon; every item of clothing and each hairstyle was scrutinized by the public and the media. The Style and Fashion Galleries [left] display outfits from the early 80s to her last public engagement, exemplifying garments ranging from official functions to evening wear. The glamorous Tiara Gallery [right] sparkles with creations that feature diamonds and gems from all over the world.

thinks it’s going to be great for the city.” he first time the show traveled the show is large with nine different galleries—not an to london three years ago, exact replica of the exhibit at althorp—and yes, it will be Pamella deVos saw it. She was a hit for the GraM because it is interesting and touching, “overwhelmed,” she explains: as Pamella says, and a first for the lake Michigan area. “you could hear the music from But, as Pamella deVos correctly notes, there are so many the wedding and it brought back points of intersection and everyone looks at it in different the feeling.” (remember when ways: She was married just two weeks after Princess diana, 750 million women got up at and Pamella’s two daughters “were quite young when she an ungodly hour on Saturday passed away,” but still fascinated by her. “She was really a morning to watch the wedding fashion icon who put British designers on the map. With live mostly on special editions of weekday network shows her interest in ballet and some of the things that touched like nBC’s Today?) With negotiations underway to get the her, like aIdS, her fight against land mines, she was a very prized package to the GraM for the museum’s 100-year big newsworthy person from every angle. anniversary, Pamella deVos was invited for the opening “My opinion is they [the Waleses] had this public at the national Constitution Center in Philadelphia in wedding and the British press went crazy for this cute girl october 2009, and had her sisters, friends and her mother, that was so shy,” Pamella explains. “diana opened the door and “everyone had tears in their eyes.” to the mysterious royalty and people just followed her. She While in Philadelphia, Pamella met Charles Spencer, was very warm and charismatic and pretty.” diana’s brother earl Spencer. “He was extremely nice Pamella deVos has a succinct way of summing up the and I said how much we loved your sister and that I would fascination with Princess di, its vast and all-encompassing love to have this in our hometown. and he pointed to a nature and the way it continues to morph and grow and person [John norman], I got his card and then I followed endure. there is a temptation to compare the mythology up on it.” Being a fashion designer, Pamella thinks about to other legendary women like Jackie her own social philosophy and knew onassis and Marilyn Monroe, but that the exhibition would be a visible Princess diana was far more courageous thing that would celebrate women and and was fulfilled and informed by a bring them together. Diana—a generous nature that has never been “the people from the Spencers’ Celebration seen on such a grand international camp saw my enthusiasm and I can tell Through Feb 16, 2011 Grand Rapids Art Museum stage before or since. how very excited they are and everyone

december 2010/January 2011

photography [opposite page, top] courtesy of AssociAted Press; [this page] courtesy of GrANd rAPids Art MUseUM

Pamella DeVos, the driving force behind the Pamella Roland designer line started in 2002, used the same energy and talent for making things happen to get the Princess Diana exhibit—to the Grand Rapids Art Museum, where it opened in early November. The permanent home for the collection is at Althorp, the Spencer family estate, where it is open from Princess Diana’s July 1st birth date until the date she was officially pronounced dead, in the early hours of August 31st. (One of those days where it is difficult to forget where you were and what you were doing; I was in New Buffalo on that Sunday before Labor Day in 1997.)

6 visitshoremagazine.com 6

even tina Brown, the wunderkind magazine editor (Tatler, Vanity Fair, the New Yorker and Talk), television talk show hostess, author (The Diana Chronicles), web editor (the daily Beast) and diana and the British royals expert, who was famously critical of the princess’ choices and frequently skeptical of what passed for the truth as told by the royal family, found the galleries in the exhibit that show diana’s early life compelling. tina Brown writes about the “childish, undistinguished letters that resonate through the years. ‘dear Mummy and daddy,’ reads an early one from Park House in 1966, ‘I hope you had a nice journey and that you are enjoying your holiday. We had a power cut on Monday and I went to bed with a candle in my room.’ Why does this sound lonely? Perhaps because we know that there will soon be heartache behind Mummy’s absence from home . . . Her father, Johnnie, the eighth earl Spencer, and her mother, Frances roche, had been married for fourteen years when Frances walked out, and in a bitter divorce, lost custody of diana and her three siblings.” While her two older sisters were away at boarding school and remote from her in childhood, diana became tightly bonded with her younger brother Charles, who cried for his mother night after night in his bedroom down the hall. during the years that diana’s father was single, he photographed and made home movies of his children. as tina Brown says, “diana grew up associating the camera with love . . . the reels of Johnnie Spencer’s films wind and rewind in an endless loop [at the exhibit] at althorp. Members of the public pause in the darkened screening room, hypnotized by the flickering scenes of a family’s vanished moments.” tina Brown quotes diana’s friend rosa Monckton reflecting that “children swing from happiness to unhappiness in a moment because what they ultimately want to do is survive.” Certainly every woman who is middle-aged has pondered the story of diana over the years. the princess herself intended it to be a fairy tale; the only books that any of her many biographers seem to be sure that she read were by Barbara Cartland, the flamboyant author of more than 700 romance books, who through an odd fluke would become her step-grandmother. there is pain right from the beginning, when the family is disappointed that diana is a girl instead of a boy, who will be the next heir to the earldom with a lineage that dates back 450 years to the pre-Windsor era. Her loyal and loving little brother is her comfort and

they want for nothing material, though they don’t get much affection or attention from family members who seem to be constantly fighting with each other. the divorce is a disaster for the two small children and they act out and misbehave with the caretakers, servants and nannies. diana excels at swimming and also shows a flair for working with children and for charities. according to andrew Morton, who wrote the first explosively revealing book about diana (which documented her frequent consultations with astrologers and clairvoyants throughout her adult life), she was always convinced she had a special destiny. others maintain that she felt she had a good chance to marry the Prince of Wales, because who else was he going to marry? He was over 30 and needed someone who was high-born and approved by his family to be the future queen . . . and that woman needed to be virginal, increasingly difficult to find.

he royal family first noticed diana at 17, when she attended Charles’s 30th birthday party in 1979. Charles, by that time, had already been involved with multiple women including diana’s sister Sarah (who made the mistake of speaking with the press) and was very involved with the married Camilla Parker-Bowles. as that relationship escalated, the palace became more frantic to find the prince a suitable bride. When Charles and diana were married they had been together thirteen times. though this is another subject of differing opinions, most of the critics, journalists, friends, servants and bodyguards think that the two were in love for a time and perhaps off and on in the first few years when their two sons William and Harry were born. though diana quickly learned about her royal duties, she was pregnant and bulimic and, in her own words in andrew Morton’s account, desperately unhappy. “I remember the first time I made myself sick. I was so thrilled, because I thought this was the release of tension. the first time I was measured for my wedding dress I was 29 inches around the waist. the day I got married I was 23-1/2 inches. I had shrunk to nothing . . . I had so many dreams as a young girl that I wanted, and hoped this, that and the other, that my husband would look after me. He would be a father figure and he’d support me, encourage me . . . He [Prince Charles] ignores me everywhere . . . He

photography courtesy of GrANd rAPids Art MUseUM

The galleries in Diana—A Celebration combine to illustrate her complex personality. Diana's early years are captured in the Childhood Gallery [opposite page, top]; her love and support for the arts may have been reinforced by her study of ballet in her youth [center, top]; Diana's tireless campaign to ban landmines is captured in the unforgettable image and outfit displayed in one of the Style Galleries [left]; the showstopping Wedding Gallery [right] and the exquisite diamond jewelry [center, bottom] and designer clothing [opposite page, bottom] reflect the glamour of her new life as a royal.

JOHN NORMAN a few words from the exhibitor How did you end up with the Princess Diana exhibit? Quite a few years ago, in 2003, I had just started my own company, Arts & Exhibitions International, and a friend of mine told me he had heard Charles Spencer was looking to bring this exhibition to America when it was not in display at the Althorp. I had previously worked for Clear Channel exhibitions, producing the Titanic and the Vatican exhibitions. I met Charles Spencer and told him that I would be honored to do this and would be the one to organize it and design it and treat it with all the respect that it deserved. We took the 150 objects to construct and build and design and expand on what [is at Althorp] and put it into a 10,000-square-foot exhibit. It shows Diana’s sense of style, colors and everything, and we’ve been touring it all over the world, basically. Do you expect success with this in the Midwest? She was very popular here. (I’m from Cleveland.) Middle America really adored her and we are very excited about Grand Rapids. I met Pamella [DeVos] in Philadelphia and then I was in Grand Rapids last spring to take a look at the space and I started thinking about how it could be laid out. The museum here is just first-class, and it’s going to be a pleasure to install the exhibition in this space. It will fit just perfectly with the feel and the museum in general. The photos look spectacular—is that the right word? It is spectacular. The wedding dress is clearly the star piece, but that doesn’t mean that it’s everybody’s favorite piece. It takes you through her life and people come away feeling closer to her. There is a lot of diversity in the 28 designer dresses we have, and that’s not the entire exhibition. It is very much like the installation at the estate in the old stables, but we have only half the room, so it’s many of the same pieces but in a different presentation. Did you have any idea that you would end up touring Princess Diana’s exhibition? [When she lived and died] that was so much longer ago and I wasn’t in this business. I was shocked like everyone else in the world. How could something like that happen to somebody who was doing so many things for other people? Did I know that I would be the one trusted to take these objects and tour them around and take them to the American people? How could I? I am so honored that the family entrusted me with these objects.

How do you do it, exactly? The objects all come on a plane and we don’t have much time when it opens and closes over in England. The dresses travel on the mannequins in large [specially made containers] and the rest of the exhibit goes in several trucks. The installation takes about two to three weeks. The cases with the lighting, the music and the videos are brought along with it. She was the most photographed woman in the world. It’s an experience. It does well everywhere it goes. —PaT ColanDer

december 2010/January 2011

just dismisses me. [the worst day of my life] was realizing that Charles had gone back to Camilla.” once the second prince was born, the marriage was effectively over. after five years, the couple agreed to separate in 1992. later that year, andrew Morton published Diana—Her True Story. the book was a blockbuster in that diana (and her friends) had obviously cooperated and was very detailed about Charles’ infidelity and her numerous legitimate gripes with the royal family. other revelations about affairs on both sides followed, transcripts of cell phone conversations between Camilla and Charles and diana and various amores were made public. Finally, after diana and Charles appeared in separate television interviews candidly discussing their failed marriage and affairs in 1995, the queen decided she had had enough of the war in the media, consulted the archbishop of Canterbury and ordered the couple to divorce. throughout this time there was never any question, doubt or controversy about diana’s (or Charles’) love for, or her ability and skills at taking care of, her children. and that might have been the end of the story, but diana had a true talent for helping, spotlighting causes and using her celebrity status for the common good. there was a side of her that could no longer stand offstage. She became friends with tony Blair, the labor leader who was elected as prime minister, who realized that she could be an international political asset for the country. and it was a role she eagerly sought. She became someone else, the crusader against land mines, working tirelessly to raise money for aIdS victims, their partners and families. She visited the sick, comforted the dying and ministered to children. one reporter who observed her among the victims of a war-torn area said that diana had no problem with looking at the hideously disfigured or those living in grinding poverty. She walked across minefields. She seemed to become more luminous and beautiful every day. the spoiled and shallow person the public had heard gossip about was gone. Her tragic death conferred the sainthood that she had, in very real ways, earned. one of the exhibits contains the transcript of diana’s brother Charles [earl] Spencer’s speech at her funeral. (If you see it, the rage and pain and eloquent tenderness are raw and unforgettable.) and earl Spencer will be coming to Grand rapids to do a speech in January. the clothes are there, too, many that we will all remember and especially the Versaces.

gift guide 2010

special advertising section

apparel Engstrom JEwElErs 3 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.4040 820 Lincolnway, LaPorte, Ind. 219.369.6580

holiday gift guide 2010

Dora wedding edding Bands and Engagement rings Hoping to pop the question under the mistletoe? Make sure the ring has some bling. Engstrom Jewelers offers an impressive selection of beautiful 14K white gold engagement rings and wedding bands by designer Dora.

It’s better to

GIVE...

If you’rE overwhelmed

by your growing shopping list, Shore is here to help. The gift ideas on the following pages run the gamut for everyone on your list and are all available locally. from artwork to model cars to custom gift baskets, you’re sure to find something special for everyone you love.

HuncH Furs anD FinE lEatHErs 2021 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4270. hunchfurs.net

cherry-dyed sheared mink coat Give the gift of warmth with this gorgeous jacket that’s sure to make a statement. The lucky lady who wears it can show off her fiery side with the bright red mink fur, or go mod with the demure black silk on the reverse.

Purple-dyed tibetan lamb Vest This super-chic vest is not for the faint of heart. Its unique texture, along with its bold purple hue, make it the perfect gift for the ultra-modern gal on your list. Pair with a leather shirt for added warmth and overall “wow” factor.

gift guide 2010

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art

antiquE tin ExPrEssions Rural Route 1, Mapleton, Ill. 309.565.4876 antiquetinexpressions.net

“Dionysus and Bacchus, the gods of wine” (3’ x 5’) The wine aficionado on your list will appreciate this piece [below], which celebrates the gods of wine. Salvaged from a historic mineral water spa near St. Louis, Missouri, the tin is rare and beautiful. This piece can be glazed in many colors and sizes, and other patterns are available.

“all Perked up” (9” to 24” sq., other vintage ad collages available) Artist Lori Daniels uses a unique combination of Midwestern antique ceiling tin and “found objects” [above], creating one-of-a-kind collages for the home. The collages range in size from 9 inches to 7 feet tall. All pieces are signed and dated by the artist, and commissions are available. Prices start at $250. “naturally yours, with Klimt in mind” These small rich ceiling tin collages [left] come in the very popular earth tones. All sizes are available, from 9” sq. and up, and every piece is signed, dated and titled by artist Lori Daniels. $150 and up.

HEart to HEart gallEry 921 Ridge Rd, Munster, Ind. 219.836.2300

december 2010/January 2011

Handmade Picture Frames These stunning frames and clocks from Heart to Heart Gallery are created by artist Diane Markin, who designs them using a unique variety of materials, including recycled glass jewels, natural stones and shells, and hand-painted cut glass. $20 to $125. Lori Daniels’ artwork (above) is also available here.

“sunrise to sunset” (2’ x 2’) This stunning piece [right] is one of many of Lori Daniels’ impressionistic scenes of nature. Hand-painted onto a salvaged ceiling tin, these pieces have a texture all their own, somewhat resembling an original watercolor.

gift guide 2010

special advertising section

home trainor glass DEsign cEntErs 939 W Lake St, Chicago, Ill. 202 N Dixie Way, South Bend, Ind. trainordesigncenters.com

Glass Towel Warmer (wall mounted) This sophisticated design element brings unsurpassed elegance to the bath with luxurious warmth. It features patented heated glass technology, a patented temperature controller, silent operation, uniform heat, automatic shutdown, and no risk of leaks. Available in five distinctive metal finishes. Magnetic Glass Marker Boards This tempered glass dry erase board [right] is magnetic and never absorbs ink—even permanent marker wipes right off without unsightly stains or yellowing. The board is great for kitchens, offices, children’s rooms and more. Mobile Fireplace Trainor’s attention-grabbing mobile fireplace [below] can be placed as a centerpiece in a city loft or contemporary interior, condo or anywhere where space is limited and a chimney may not be an option. The easy-to-move mini fireplace can be used indoors or out, creating a warm ambience wherever it’s placed. Available in a vibrant red orange or white finish.

Venetian Cast Glass Platters These beautiful platters [above] are manufactured using 3/8-inch thick glass that would otherwise have been broken and simply recycled. The staff at Trainor Glass is able to convert this glass into stunning works of art. The added thickness provides durability to the platters for years of enjoyment.

gift guide 2010

cK BuilDing anD DEsign corPoration Crown Point, Ind. 219.775.0510 buildwithck.com

Free 3D Project Design If you or a friend have a home project that baffles you, you can hire a quality team of experts to complete your project. By utilizing some of the most advanced 3D Design Software available [left], CK Building and Design can show you how your project will look when completed. Certain restrictions apply.

december 2010/January 2011

Backyard retreat For the entertainer on your list, CK Building and Design Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of design professionals can help bring a vision of comfort, beauty and elegance in a backyard retreat design [left]. Prices are subject to on-site visit, bid and material selections. Typical price range is $3,500 and up.

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gift guide 2010

special advertising section

experience nortHwEst inDiana symPHony orcHEstra 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster, Ind. 219.836.0525. nisorchestra.org

Concert Tickets Give the gift of music [right] with tickets to the symphony! Enjoy a Valentine’s concert featuring pianist Meng-Chieh Liu playing Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, hear up-and-coming cellist Joshua Roman in March, immerse yourself in Orff’s choral masterwork Carmina Burana in April or bring the family to hear Disney in Concert in May. Single tickets and subscriptions available. Prices range from $20-$60.

ciao BElla ristorantE, PizzEria, winEBar 1514 US 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

Custom Gift Baskets Treat your favorite party hostess with a basket filled with Italian goodies from Ciao Bella. Sicilian lentil soup, salami from Liguria, Perugina cappuccino and Nutella chocolate spread are just some of the delicious treats you can choose. Baskets are $40, $60 or $100 and must be pre-ordered.

strongBow inn 2405 E US Hwy 30, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121. strongbowinn.com

Strongbow Gift Card Anyone who loves hearty holiday fare will enjoy a gift card from this classic institution, which features a wide variety of turkey and other selections. Gift cards are available in any denomination.

Four winDs casino

gino’s stEaKHousE

11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Mich. 269.926.4500. fourwindscasino.com

1259 W US 30, Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3854 600 E US 30, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4466 ginossteakhouse.com

2 visitshoremagazine.com 7

Four Winds Casino Gift Card The recipient of this special gift doesn’t have to be a gambler—gift cards are redeemable at the casino’s five restaurants, the hotel and Four Winds Outfitters. Purchase a card of at least $10 at Four Winds Outfitters.

Gino’s Steakhouse Gift Card Treat your sweetheart to fine dining at one of Northwest Indiana’s most renowned restaurants. Gino’s menu features USDA prime steaks, chops, pasta and fresh seafood, along with an exceptional wine list and full bar. Gino’s hosts live entertainment each weekend.

special advertising section

gift guide 2010

trinkets lExus oF mErrillVillE 3957 W Hwy 30, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4545 lexusofmerrillville.com

Lexus Cap Think your Lexus owner friends already have everything? Treat them to a cap—available in a variety of styles and colors for $19.99-$29.99.

tHE sHrinE oF cHrist’s Passion 10630 Wicker Ave, St. John, Ind. 219.365.6010. shrineofchristspassion.org

Fontanini Nativities Build family traditions by including a Fontanini nativity [above] in your holiday display. Made in Italy, these sculptures beautifully capture the joy and majesty of the sacred time of year. Prices start at $95. Michal Golan Jewelry Treat your favorite fashionista to beautiful jewelry handcrafted by designer Michal Golan [left]. The necklaces are made of 24K gold or sterling silver electroplated over brass or white metal, and contain semi-precious stones, freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals and glass. Prices start at $87.

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

Butterfingers Gift Certificate Give the dessert lover on your list a gift certificate to the area’s most notable dessert shop. Voted Best Bakery and Best Caterer in 2009 and 2010, Butterfingers offers cakes [right], cookies, small desserts, salads, sandwiches, sweet trays, holiday menus and more.

Lexus Designer Wine-carrying Case Wine lovers definitely will put this gift to good use. The case holds two bottles and includes a pocket with opener and corkscrew. $49.99. Lexus Coffee Mug Don’t forget about the coffee drinkers on your list. This high-quality mug [below right] is insulated and includes the Lexus logo. It’s available in black, blue, pink or purple for $19.99. Authentic Replica of Lexus GS430 Give your favorite car enthusiast this 1:18 die cast model car [below], which includes a certificate of authenticity and is authorized by Lexus. $60.

bite & sip

food feature words by

JANE DUNNE photos by

ToNy V. MArTiN

Continental confluence An InternAtIonAl CoCktAIl Buffet for ten

mall plates are certainly still in vogue, and since the world is growing smaller, why not mix it up a bit? Instead of strictly laying out an array of antipasti or tapas or zakooska or mezze, why not combine them into a buffet where each dish complements another? Most of them already have a nodding acquaintance, so the sweet paprika roast chicken from Spain should get along just fine with the Milanese orange and walnut salad from Italy. the Spanish chickpeas with garlic and spinach and the Italian shrimp with fennel could be a match made in heaven. As for Janssonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temptation, just cozy those spuds up to the russian meatballs and see what develops. Switch them around to your own preferenceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and let the dance begin . . .

recipes (serve 10)

Roast ChiCken with sweet PaPRika Serve warm or at room temperature.

(*recipes given)

(FroM SPAiN) Roast Chicken with sweet Paprika*

Chickpeas with Garlic and spinach* (FroM iTALy) shrimp with Fennel seed and olives* milanese orange and walnut salad* (FroM SCANDiNAViA) Jansson’s temptation* smoked norwegian salmon with Brown Bread and lemon (FroM rUSSiA) Russian meatballs in tomato sauce* herring in Cream sauce with dill (FroM TUrkEy) Red Pepper spread with toasted Pitas* sekerpare (sweet almond Pastry)* Cheese BoaRd: old amsterdam premium aged Gouda, Jarlsberg, Gran maestre 3-month aged manchego, sweet Gorgonzola and woolwich dairy Chevrai (soft, unripened goat cheese), garnished with Red Grapes. as assortment of red and white wine and other beverages of choice.

(4 to 5 pounds each) chickens, rinsed and dried Sweet paprika Salt and pepper to taste 1/3 cup olive oil 6 cloves garlic, crushed 4 fresh thyme sprigs 1/4 cup fino or Manzanilla sherry 1/4 cup chicken broth Yogurt for garnish

rub the chickens well with paprika, salt and pepper. Skin should take on a rosy color. refrigerate, unwrapped, for 8 hours or overnight. This insures a crisp bird. Heat oven to 425 degrees. in a sauté pan, heat the oil over medium setting. Add the crushed garlic and cook, stirring, until softened but not colored, around 2 minutes. Drain garlic, brush oil lightly over the chickens. Divide thyme sprigs and garlic; place in the chicken cavities. Truss the birds loosely and arrange them, breast side up, in a shallow roasting pan. roast chickens for 30 minutes. Combine sherry and broth; pour into the bottom of the roasting pan. Baste chickens and roast for another 30 minutes or until chickens are crisp and golden (185 degrees on meat thermometer in thickest part of the thigh). Baste again before removing from the oven. Let chickens rest on a rack for 20 minutes. Separate legs from thighs with a sharp knife. remove breasts and cut in half (so you have 8 pieces of breast). Arrange chicken on a platter. Sprinkle with more salt, pepper and paprika. Garnish with a generous dollop of thick yogurt. ChiCkPeas with sPinaCh and GaRliC 3 3 6 1 1 1

(15-ounce) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained tablespoons olive oil cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped teaspoon cumin seeds, finely ground bag fresh spinach, tough stems removed, rinsed and coarsely chopped Salt and pepper to taste tablespoon lemon zest Dash sherry vinegar Garnish: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

1-1/2 pounds large shrimp, cooked, peeled and deveined 1 clove garlic 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, crushed 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup Kalamata olives 1/4 cup Mediterranean green olives

Lightly crush garlic clove with the side of a heavy knife. remove garlic from the peel. Crush the fennel seeds with the same knife. in a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, garlic and fennel with salt and pepper to taste. Add the shrimp and olives and mix well. Let marinate for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. remove the garlic before serving. milanese oRanGe and walnut salad 1/2 4 1 3

cup walnut pieces navel oranges teaspoon fresh lemon juice tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 or 2 small heads radicchio, separated into leaves Optional: 2-ounce chunk Parmigiano-Reggiano, cut into slivers for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread nuts on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until lightly toasted. Watch carefully so nuts do not burn. Let cool. Squeeze 3 tablespoons juice from one

december 2010/January 2011

in a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium setting. Add the garlic and cook until golden but not brown. Add the chickpeas, ground cumin, and salt and pepper. Cook just until chickpeas are warmed through. Add the spinach and toss until it has just wilted. immediately remove from heat, add lemon zest and vinegar and place in a decorative bowl. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve at room temperature. Garnish with hard-boiled eggs.

shRimP with Fennel and olives

of the oranges. In a small bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Peel the remaining 3 oranges, removing all of the white pith. Cut oranges into either circles or sections; combine with the walnuts, tossing gently with dressing. Make a decorative bed of the radicchio leaves and place oranges and walnuts in the center. Sprinkle with cheese if using. Serve immediately. Jansson’s Temptation Sweden’s most popular version of scalloped potatoes. The sprats (or anchovies) lend a special flavor to the casserole without making it taste fishy. Watch the salt, however, when you season, as the anchovies are already salty. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing pan 2 large red or yellow onions, thinly sliced 6 medium-large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 1 jar anchovies, drained, rinsed and minced with a sharp knife 1 to 2 cups half-and-half Salt and pepper 1 cup fresh bread crumbs

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Heat oven to 425 degrees. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large heavy skillet. Sauté onions over medium heat until tender but not brown. Remove from heat. Lightly butter a casserole dish. Place 1/3 of the potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Layer half the sautéed onions and half the anchovies on top of the potatoes; sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Repeat layer; use remaining 1/3 of potatoes as the top layer. Pour enough half-and-half over the potatoes to fill the dish 3/4 of the way up. Combine bread crumbs and remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter; sprinkle evenly across top of casserole. Bake in the oven until browned and cooked through,

50 minutes to 1 hour. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Russian Meatballs 4 pounds lean ground beef 6 slices stale white bread (2 days old) 2 small onions, grated 1-1/4 teaspoons salt 3/4 teaspoon pepper 1 whole egg plus 1 egg yolk, beaten 1 stick unsalted butter, divided Sifted dried bread crumbs 2 cups tomato sauce 1 tablespoon raisins Pinch of cayenne pepper, pinch of sugar Parsley for garnish

Place ground beef in a large bowl. Remove crusts from bread. Soak bread in a little cold water, squeeze dry and add to the meat. Mix thoroughly until there are no lumps. Add the grated onion, salt and pepper and mix well. Add the egg mixture and stir at least 3 minutes. Now shape into 24 meat balls. Roll meat balls gently in bread crumbs. Heat 3 tablespoons butter in a large heavy frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs quickly (6 at a time) until browned on all sides (about 12 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and keep warm. Repeat the process 3 more times, adding more butter to the pan as necessary. When all the meatballs are cooked, put any remaining butter in the pan. Stir in your favorite tomato sauce along with the raisins, cayenne and sugar. Heat to a simmer and taste for seasoning. Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss gently in the sauce until well coated. Serve warm. Garnish with parsley. Turkish Red Pepper Spread with Toasted Pitas 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted 1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, rinsed 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs

1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or to taste 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper Salt to taste Pitas or pita chips

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Adjust seasoning with more salt and lemon juice if necessary. Serve with toasted pitas or pita chips. Sweet Almond Topped Pastry 2 cups water 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 egg 1/4 pound powdered sugar 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 pound all-purpose flour 14 to 18 whole almonds, skin removed

Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Stir in lemon juice and mix well. Bring mixture to a boil and cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour syrup into a large shallow pan and set aside. Let cool completely. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a shallow baking pan or coat with nonstick spray. With an electric mixer, blend egg and powdered sugar until smooth. Add butter and baking soda, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add flour, mixing continuously until it forms a ball. Knead, adding more flour as necessary, until dough is no longer sticky. Pinch off enough dough to make a 1-inch ball. Place balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. You should have 15 to 18 dough balls. Place an almond on top of each ball. Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven; immediately place each pastry into cooled syrup. Allow pastries to soak for 1-1/2 hours until saturated.

gourmet the

issue

next issue Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re cooking up something special this February with our annual Gourmet Issue. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be tantalizing your appetite with a variety of fresh features, including profiles on area chefs, 7 visitshoremagazine.com 7

favorite childhood dishes, gourmet treats for winter, favorite area restaurants and award-winning cocktails. Ad reservAtion deAdline: december 9; Publishes JAnuAry 10 cAll 219.922.3200 to Advertise

bite & sip Giovanni’s

603 Ridge Rd, Munster, Indiana. 219.836.6220. giosmunster.com.

The information presented in Bite & Sip is accurate as of press time, but readers are encouraged to call ahead to verify listing information.

Indiana

AMORÉ RISTORANTE AND 109 SUSHI & MARTINI LOUNGE 109 Joliet St, Crown Point. 219.663.7377. amore109.com. The ultimate two-for-one, this sleek restaurant features Italian cuisine on its first floor at Amoré Ristorante and Japanese cuisine, including sushi and sashimi, upstairs at the 109 Sushi & Martini Lounge. But eating at one doesn’t preclude ordering off the menu at the other as the food goes both ways—up and down the stairs. Carnivores will want to try the monster-sized 20- to 22-ounce bone-in rib eye steak, the 16-ounce Kansas City bone-in strip steak or the braised pork shank osso bucco. Seafood lovers get to order lobster in a myriad of ways, including in the sushi, bisque and linguini as well as the decadent twin 6-ounce lobster tails served with drawn butter. Other seafood favorites are the seafood risotto piled high with shrimp, scallops, mussels and more lobster and the peppercornencrusted fresh ahi tuna. Save room for bananas foster, crème brûlée and a quadruple assortment of cupcakes—chocolate, vanilla bean, black and white (swirled chocolate and vanilla) and red velvet topped with cream cheese frosting.

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BARTLETT’S GOURMET GRILL & TAVERN 131 E Dunes Hwy 12, Beverly Shores. 219.879.3081. eatatbartletts.com. Bartlett’s is a new 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. 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.

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.

BUTTERFINGERS 2552 45th Ave, Highland. 219.924.6464. 921 D Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.4202. Every day, Butterfingers prepares a selection of ready-to-heat-and-eat entrées, along with freshly baked breads and salads, all without preservatives. The chicken almond salad has long been a crowd favorite, but the rest of the lunch menu is equally gratifying. What Butterfingers is best known for, however, is their famous desserts. The restaurant’s two pastry chefs—whose training hails from the Culinary Institute of America in New York, and Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island—create an array of gourmet desserts, which includes beautifully decorated and delicious cakes (the double chocolate mousse cake is a must), and an assortment of cookies and brownies, all of which have been satisfying dessert lovers for more than twenty-five years. And to every party planner’s delight, Butterfingers does offer catering.

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.

CIAO BELLA 1514 US 41, Schererville. 219.322.6800. ciaobellaonline.com. The cuisines of three different regions of Italy are featured at 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

DUNELAND BEACH INN 3311 Pottawattamie Tr, Michigan City. 800.423.7729. dunelandbeachinn.com. Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood, just outside of New Buffalo, Duneland Beach Inn lies in wait to greet its guests. The newly remodeled, circa-1924 inn buzzes with the activity of locals and Chicagoans alike. Start your evening in the cozy bar with a bottle of wine that you will find nowhere else in the region, ranging from $26 to $210. Or, after a martini, retire to a table near the fireplace to enjoy one of the chef’s features which may include steaks, fresh fish and seafood or seasonal cuisine. All items are prepared from the freshest ingredients available, whether it be a seared ahi tuna with soba noodle salad, Alaskan halibut with ginger hoisin glaze, New Zealand rack of lamb

photograph by TONY V. MARTIN

This classic upscale Italian bistro is a local favorite, with charm, gracious service and an extensive menu. Innovative selections include a variety of appetizers, and specials are paired with recommended wine by the glass. A crab cake salad with fresh mozzarella and Bibb lettuce is a staple for lunch, and all entrées are accompanied by hot and crusty garlic Parmesan cheese rolls. You can indulge in a traditional multi-course Italian dinner or order by the item. For lighter fare, soups, salads and pizzas are served with cheerful dispatch. Sumptuous dinners include a renowned Veal Scallopine Piccata, served in a white wine sauce, and scampi sautéed in garlic, lemon, thyme and butter. The wine list is extensive but educational, and the desserts range from classic tiramisu to real Italian gelato. Lunch entrées average about $12, while dinners cost $18 to $25.

GINO’S STEAK HOUSE 1259 W Joliet St, Dyer. 219.865.3854. 600 E 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.769.4466. ginossteakhouse.com. The chefs at Gino’s, who have more than thirty years of combined experience, use only the freshest ingredients in their homestyle cuisine. Starters include traditional minestrone soup from a family recipe, salads with fresh, locally grown produce, and crusty bread with crocks of butter. The nine-ounce prime steak tops the menu and is itself topped with Roquefort cheese in its most popular rendition. All main dishes are served with the restaurant’s signature marinated peppers, and entrées include fish and lobster delivered daily. The dessert menu features créme brûlée and various cheesecakes, but the housemade tiramisu is the highlight—a rich blend of coffee, chocolate and cream cheese flavors. A premium selection of wine, beer and cocktails is available at the full-service bar, and there is a special children’s menu so the entire family can enjoy the dining experience.

KELLY’S TABLE 5727 N 600 W, Michigan City. 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

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 2006 and 2008 ROSE Awards for “Putting Porter County on the Map.”) Signature dishes include slow-cooked 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 domeshaped chocolate sponge cake filled with white chocolate mousse and pistachios and sauced with both chocolate and raspberry. Lunch entrées average $20, dinner $30. SAHARA 1701 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.871.1223. sahara-restaurant.net. A cozy, casual bistro serving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine in downtown Michigan City, the menu at Sahara reflects the traditional dishes of owner Moe Mroueh’s homeland. “I like to cook what I grew up eating,” says Mroueh, who isn’t afraid to add a defining touch to classics as he does with such menu items as fetastuffed dates in a pomegranate reduction sauce, a cucumber Napoleon—slices of cucumber topped with housemade hummus and feta—and a Greek Isle Salad with the usual toppings of cucumbers, onions and feta with an added flourish of gyro meat. Those who want to graze can order one of the combination plates. Patrons are encouraged to linger and enjoy the music with a cold beer or glass of wine. STOP 50 WOOD FIRED PIZZERIA 500 S El Portal, Michigan City. 219.879.8777. stop50woodfiredpizzeria. com. Just north of US Hwy 12 and west of New Buffalo, this café enjoys a well-deserved reputation—including being named one of the top four pizzerias in the Midwest by Rachael Ray magazine—for authentic Italian pizza baked “Naples-style” in wood-fired hearth ovens. Customers return again and again—it’s only difficult to find the first time. The recipes are traditional, and the ingredients are fresh daily. In addition

DecemBer 2010/january 2011

GIORGETTI’S RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA Washington Park, Michigan City. 219.809.4000. 28 N Elm St, Three Oaks, Mich. giorgettis.com. Expanding on its successful takeout and delivery-only pizzeria in New Buffalo, Giorgetti’s has renovated the waterfront space that was, until recently, the Harbor Grill, at Washington Park’s Yacht Club facility. “When we say we have fresh homemade lasagna, it means we made our own noodles,” says general manager Steve Vargas, explaining the concept. “When we say fresh fish, that means we get the whole fish and cut the fillets ourselves.” Using old family recipes, including one for pizza sauce that dates back half a century, the Michigan City restaurant not only serves the thin-crust pizzas that gained them such a following at their former New Buffalo location, but they also offer an extended menu featuring Italian sandwiches with their housemade sausage and garden salads with romaine, tomato, green onion, black olives, Romano cheese and Italian dressing (made in-house, of course). Desserts change weekly but can include their killer tiramisu and chocolate chip cookies. Be sure to watch the sun set over the harbor while sipping a martini, a locally crafted beer, cocktails or a glass of wine on the outdoor patio that seats 75. There’s live music at night during the summer. “We’re family friendly,” says Vargas, noting that their most expensive item is $12 for the lake perch.

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.

with herb demi-glace, Maryland style jumbo lump crab cakes with mustard aioli, tender smoky baby back ribs with sweet BBQ sauce, gaufrettes and housemade slaw, or black truffle risotto. Round out your evening with something sweet prepared in-house by the pastry chef. Not a lot of room left over? Everyone has room for a mini: tantalizing assorted desserts—such as coconut cream pie, triple chocolate cake, berries sabayon, to name a few—served in miniature martini glasses. Looking for a place for that special occasion? Private dinners and catering are available for any event.

bite & sip to the Napoletana pizza, sandwiches and salads are available to eat at Stop 50, or you can get your snack or meal to go. Try the banana peppers stuffed with house-made sausage or a fiery tomato and goat cheese dip with handcut fried chips. Owners Chris and Kristy Bardol, who rehabbed the 50-year-old beach community grocery store into a restaurant, stick to strictly locally grown food. Average entrée cost is $15, but you can make a satisfying light meal out of the generously proportioned starters at $8-$12. Now open is SodaDog, the Bardols’ newest venture, which specializes in authentic hot dogs and sausages and micro-crafted soda, all served via carhop service. SodaDog is located at 171 Hwy 212 in Michigan City. 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. SWINGBELLY’S 100 Washington St, Michigan City. 219.874.5718. swingbellys.org. When the weather’s right, enjoy outdoor dining and views of Lake Michigan at this family restaurant, a staple of downtown Michigan City since the Werner family opened its doors in 1983. Located near Washington Park, the nautically themed Swingbelly’s (check out the hammerhead shark, life rings and sailfish mounted on the walls) is housed in a historic train depot. Even if the weather is dreary, the views from inside the restaurant are still great and the ambience of times gone by just adds to its charm. The menu hosts a variety of options, including the Belly Buster—one half pound of hand-pattied beef chargrilled and topped with lettuce, tomato, cheese, mushrooms, green olives, onion and bacon; or the Lake Avenue Roast Beef—turkey, provolone, lettuce, tomato and Thousand Island dressing on rye. There are dinners as well, including the popular deep-fried lake perch and rib eye steaks. Prices are reasonable; all dinners are under $20. The Kid’s Corner menu offers, among other items, hot dogs or popcorn chicken accompanied with sides such as onion rings or fruit cup for only $4.75. There’s beer on tap and in the bottle as well as a limited wine selection.

Michigan

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BISTRO ON THE BOULEVARD 521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph, Michigan. 269.983.6600. theboulevardinn.com. This French 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, right down to the tinted water glasses, burnished wood

and wood-burning fireplace. 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 returned last year after working as executive chef at Tosi’s Restaurant and then the Orchard Hills Country Club, to replace longtime executive chef Ali Barker, who moved from the area. Thornburg’s menu items include Horseradish Crusted Faroe Islands 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 sautéed garlic potatoes and mixed greens dressed with an aged sherry vinaigrette. Prices are reasonable, starting at $17 for the macaroni and cheese made with aged white cheddar, mascarpone, gruyere and country ham topped with garlic bread crumbs, to steaks for around $30. Be sure to check out the Wednesday sushi menu for such delights as Black Dragon—broiled eel, shrimp tempura, avocado and cucumber with wasabi topikiko—as well as the choice of sakes. Reservations are always helpful, especially on the weekends. THE PHOENIX 124 Water Street, Benton Harbor. 269.925.8060. thephoenixbh.com. For those wanting to taste Elizabeth Frost’s exquisite, freshly made croissants, timing is everything at the Phoenix, her cafe in the Arts District of Benton Harbor. Frost starts rolling out the laminated layers of butter and dough in this historic building, with its large windows overlooking the blossoming neighborhood, at a time when late-nighters are just thinking of going to bed. Since she first opened, word of mouth has spiked demand and the French pastries sell so quickly that Frost, who is dedicated to quality, often can’t keep up with the demand. Currently she’s offering three varieties—plain, ham and Gruyere cheese, and chocolate. But even those that miss out on her croissants can still enjoy her other baked goods, like the wonderful scones—often made with fresh fruit when in season—and such breakfast offerings as the One Eyed Jack—bread with a hole cut out of the middle to accommodate a cooked egg—and Egg McPhoenix, two organic eggs with a blend of cheeses served grilled on Challah bread. As with all the breakfast breads, lunch items are made with breads shipped in from the famed Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor and include grilled pimento and cheese, and turkey, havarti, bacon and avocado with mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato. There’s freshly brewed coffee, lattes and cappuccinos, Boylan sodas and an array of teas. Outdoor seating completes Frost’s croissant dream. SCHU’S GRILL & BAR 501 Pleasant St, St. Joseph. 269.983.7248. schulersrest.com. The restaurant tradition of Schuler’s goes back four generations in Michigan and continues with Schu’s Grill & Bar in St. Joe. Diners can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan and cozy up to the hand-crafted fieldstone fireplace. Good conversation and good food are all part of the experience at Schu’s, where the start of a tasty night includes Schu’s potato soup—the restaurant’s famous original soup served with cheddar cheese, bacon bits and diced scallions. Gumbos and a selection of distinctive salads, like the sweet chili shrimp salad, also make great starters before the hearty portions of pasta or a sizzlin’ rib eye steak. Also, try the terrific

bite & sip fall-off-the-bone barbeque ribs presented on a wooden plank with tangy molasses sauce served with crispy French fries. Schu’s is also a great place to stop for lunch. A homemade egg salad sandwich is made exceptional with shallots and a touch of tarragon topped with lettuce and tomato, or devour the salmon B.L.T. made with a generous six-ounce portion of grilled salmon with crisp bacon, mixed greens and fresh tomatoes, topped with tarragon Dijon sauce and served with housemade chips. TABOR HILL WINERY & RESTAURANT 185 Mt Tabor Rd, Buchanan. 800.283.3363. taborhill.com. Tabor Hill Winery’s restaurant is all at once elegant, urbane and semi-casual. Its windows afford ample, rolling vineyard views; the menu is sophisticated. Chef JohnPaul VerHage, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, gives a modified California-cuisine touch to signature dishes like raspberry chicken and the salmon wrapped in grape leaves. The extensive appetizer menu includes items like mini Morel Mushroom Pizzas and Kobe Beef Carpaccio. Though the restaurant is easy to find—just a half hour north of South Bend and 20 minutes east of New Buffalo—it’s not always easy to get in. Reservations are suggested—but those who wander in unannounced can sip at the complimentary wine bar or purchase a glass and enjoy it on the stone terrace overlooking the vines. Tabor Hill produces a wonderful variety of awardwinning wines, but for those who desire a harder libation, a full bar awaits. WHEATBERRY RESTAURANT & TAVERN 15212 N Red Bud Tr, Buchanan. 269.697.0043. wheatberrytavern.com. Nestled on a bend of the slow-moving St. Joseph River just north of Buchanan—a town transforming into trendiness with its historic downtown filled with eclectic shops—the owners of the recently opened Wheatberry Restaurant & Tavern see their place as a gathering spot for lovers of regional American cuisine. “We cook everything from scratch,” says Mike Hoyland, one of the restaurant’s owners. Besides a dedication to using the best of local farms and food producers, there’s also an emphasis on the smoked ribs, pork and chicken that come out of the large Southern Pride Smoker in the back of the restaurant. Other entrées include prime sliced sirloin topped with Wisconsin’s wonderful Mindoro Blue cheese, basil and toasted pine nut butter, as well as cedar-planked salmon and wood-roasted chicken Vesuvio. Soups, sandwiches, salads and killer hamburgers, thick and juicy and cooked to order, are also on the menu. Dessert specialties include Texas sheet cake—a dense, rich brownie-like cake—and Key lime pie. WILD DOG GRILLE 24 W Center St, Douglas. 269.857.2519. 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 remoulade 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.

Illinois

BALAGIO RISTORANTE 17501 Dixie Hwy, Homewood. 708.957.1650. balagio-restaurant.com. Now in a new location, this popular Italian restaurant has changed its menu offerings, with many entrée prices now under $12.95. Some of the specialties created by chef/owner Mike Galderio include chicken scaloppini—thin breast cutlets quickly sautéed with white wine—Italian sausage and roasted red peppers served with braised escarole, and a salmon club sandwich with broiled salmon, crisp bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato. There are also Galderio traditional family recipes like the chopped salad with chicken, salami and hearts of palm, housemade marinara sauce and spaghetti and meatballs. There’s an extensive wine list as well as live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings. Private dining is available for any group from 10 to 200, either family style or custom designed. THE COURTYARD BISTRO 21 S White St, Frankfort. 815.464.1404. The ambitious menu is inspired by the cooking of Italy, France and the American Southwest, but this south suburban bistro adeptly meets the challenge of its own making while getting results that delight both newcomers and regulars. Signature dishes include Santa Fe lasagna and artichoke ravioli on the Neapolitan side, and onion tart and gorgonzolaseared beef tenderloin are straight out of a sidewalk café near the River Seine in Paris. The martini menu is as innovative as the food, and the wine list is better than average with interesting possibilities for complementing the entrées. The seafood is very fresh and well-prepared with garnishes and light sauces, and main dishes are economical in the $915 range. The atmosphere is always friendly and can range from celebratory for special luncheons on the weekends to cozy, romantic couple dinners in the evening. But it is the attention to detail at every level from customer comfort to the dessert selections and coffee service at the end of the meal that gets the repeat customers. SIAM MARINA THAI CUISINE 80 River Oaks Center Dr, 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 men with dozens of vegetarian options as well as traditionally spiced and marinated poultry dishes. The spring rolls and peanut sauce are prepared in-house daily, along with special soups. The authentic pad Thai has a loyal following, and fresh coconut works in many of the dishes, including dessert. A multi-course lunch averages $12, dinner $15.

For more restaurant listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com.

house&

GROUNDS

nostalgic

HOLIDAY WORDS BY JULIE DEAN KESSLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT WRAY

FORMAL MEETS COZY INSIDE A TUDOR MANOR

december 2010/january 2011

At the holidays, the warmth of family connection wraps itself like a shawl around the soul. For Thelma Venema, creating a new home in Crown Point meant keeping those family connections close. Treasured mementos join the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festive dĂŠcor, and an important architectural element echoes a bridge spanning time and distance.

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GROUNDS

Christmas trees [above] ﬂank the fireplace in the hearth room; behind the leather sofa is an informal dining room. Opposite page [clockwise from upper right]: In the studio room, Christmas characters are displayed; next to a figurine in the great room are three antique hymn books; seen from the great room balcony, three oversize windows brighten the space; a formal window treatment adds to the elegance of the library; the great room. The ﬂoating main staircase [previous page] at the front entryway is graced by Juliet balconies; “The Lord is my shepherd” is depicted in Dutch on a painting in the great room; and in the library, a nutcracker stands at attention.

4 VISITSHOremaGaZIne.cOm 8

With the selection of a Tudor manor-style home, archways were a natural, subtle reference to Venema’s family roots. “My grandmother immigrated from the Netherlands, and it was important to me to incorporate her heirlooms and artwork from there, especially at Christmastime,” Venema says. Every opening downstairs is a graceful archway, suggesting bridges to a beloved family and its origins. For the house built in 2004 that sits on one-anda-half lots with 258 feet along a pond, Venema commissioned a mural from Michigan City artist Tim Gray for four doors inside the entryway. The panels depict the pond and cattails; “Even the heron really exists out there. These views provide a natural transition from the environment to the inside,” Venema says. The rooms’ traditional furnishings are elegant and graceful, with country French accents. A marvelously inviting piece is the great-room sofa—a two-sided affair that encourages

conversations among guests enjoying the nearby cozy fireplace. Artwork here includes a framed “The Lord is my shepherd,” in Dutch, that Venema’s grandmother brought to America. The great room’s 16-foot vaulted ceiling allows plenty of room for a Juliet balcony and one of at least seven Christmas trees throughout the home. Here, too, is a much-loved collection of early editions of the Hans Brinker, or the Silver Skates folk tale of a little Dutch boy. Ten-foot ceilings in the other six downstairs rooms allow for formal window treatments and large crystal chandeliers in the formal dining room and at the main staircase, a floating design flanked by Juliet balconies and festooned with garlands at the holidays. Oriental rugs add warmth to both dining areas. Entertaining is easy with a double-oven Wolf range, a separate bar sink, and two narrow doors with pull-out pantry shelves. Granite on the island and countertops extends up to the bottom of cabinets for a polished look that’s easy to maintain.

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GROUNDS

Garlands and a picture keep Christmas in the kitchen, too, where entertaining is made easy with a double stove, large center island, and pull-out pantry shelves.

december 2010/january 2011

Nearby is the hearth room, where Christmas trees flank the fireplace and a collection of Santa figures fills the top of a tall cabinet. In the library, Venema’s collection of colorful nutcrackers reflects her family’s tradition of attending the Nutcracker ballet in Chicago. In the studio room—so named for art materials at the ready with large triple windows for light—is a Christmas tree, nostalgic with Rockwell ornaments. In warmer weather, One of several unique Santa French doors open onto a deck figures [top] that extends the entire 90-footholds a baby plus length of the home, doll; Dutchthemed holiday with steps and angles for books and visual interest. cards are part The master bedroom suite of a treasured collection; a includes a whirlpool tub, glass festive frog sits block walk-in shower, and two atop a small vanities, one with a built-in TV in table near the kitchen; one of the mirrors. Asked if each upstairs in the of the five baths are decorated movie room, a at Christmas, Venema chuckles, theater-themed Christmas “Oh, yes—and of course there’s tree displays a tree in the master bedroom.” popcorn boxes, Upstairs, a Jack-and-Jill movie reels, and black-and-white arrangement of three rooms— scene “takes.” two dressing areas with custom vanities/sinks separated by the shower/toilet area—connect a guest bedroom and Venema’s home office. A just-for-fun room is the theater, where the reserved Venema lets her quirky side show. There’s a Christmas tree, of course—and a miniature popcorn stand and lighted jukebox, as well as a large projector reel depicted on one wall. Other theater items—playbills, posters— complete the theme. A back staircase leads down to the kitchen area, where a graceful little table holds a droll frog in green and red, sporting a jester’s hat with bells. After a smile at the whimsical frog, Venema spreads out three old, tiny books on the granite countertop and opens them with care. “These little books,” she says in a hushed voice, “mean a great deal to me. They’re psalters—hymn books.” She gently turns a yellowed page and points to a date nearly two centuries past. “This one, written in Dutch, was my grandmother’s.” She opens the pages in another little book, explains, “This one was my late husband’s,” then softly closes it. She glances up and her eyes suddenly sparkle. “Of course, that one’s in English!” She points across to the great room, where an 1865 three-volume set of Dutch history is displayed. “This house is truly what I wanted,” she says simply: a place where upscale meets Old World—and where both speak the same language after all.

shore THINGS Form

210 State St, St. Joseph, Michigan. 269.982.7025. bretbortnerdesign.com. Gifts and decorative accessories can be found here, including table lamps, framed art, candles, clocks, picture frames and glassware. This unique shop is also home to two studios featuring the works of owner and artist Bret Bortner. The product design studio features Bortner’s white porcelain dinnerware and tabletop accessories, and his clay designs are displayed at the Pottery Shop.

build Indiana

CARPET TOWN 400 Lincolnway, LaPorte, 219.362.3185. 502 Clay St, LaPorte, 219.324.7759. 7295 W Johnson Rd, Michigan City, 219.874.3252. carpettownﬂoors.com. For more than 30 years, Carpet Town has been a popular provider of flooring materials throughout the LaPorte area. Flooring is made from high-quality materials such as ceramic, porcelain, laminate, tile, wood and—of course—carpet. Flooring accessories and installation services are also available. 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. COOK BUILDERS 6919 W Lincoln Hwy, Crown Point. 219.322.3303. cookbuilders.com. In business for more than thirty years, Cook has become a reputable building company across Northwest Indiana, specializing primarily in custom homes. An added valuable service is an advanced Internet-based communication system so that homebuyers can track their selections, allowances and specifications during and after the building process.

8 VISITSHOremaGaZIne.cOm 8

HORIZON AWNING 2227 E US 12, Michigan City. 219.872.2329. horizonawning.com. For more than 25 years, this company has built canvas and aluminum awnings for the home and business, plus custom boat covers. Canvas awnings are made of long-wearing, fade-resistant fabrics, and the aluminum variety come with whimsical scalloped edges. HULTMAN FLOORING 35 E US Hwy 20, Porter. 219.926.1966. Hultman Flooring, a member of the National Wood Flooring

Association, specializes in the design, installation and refinishing of real wood floors. J KREMKE CONSTRUCTION ENTERPRISES 314 Spring View Dr, Porter. 219.309.0360. mygreenbuildingsolutions.com. This construction company specializes in sustainable eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes at reasonable rates. Aside from new construction, remodeling and land development, J Kremke Construction also provides maintenance for bank-owned properties. MARK SCOTT HOMES 15645 Embers Dr, Mishawaka. 574.259.9518. markscotthomes.net. Since 1988, this reputable builder has specialized in custom home building. Their portfolio consists of large, eye-catching exteriors and complex and detailed interiors. Mark Scott Homes prides themselves also on building environmentally friendly and energy-efficient homes. The staff consists of welltrained, experienced, detail-oriented craftsmen. MARUSZCZAK APPLIANCE 7809 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville. 219.865.0555. For nineteen years, Maruszczak has been selling and servicing major home appliances in the Munster area. Its broad inventory includes fridges, stoves, dishwashers, washer/dryers and more, made by virtually every brand in the market. The company is also factory-authorized to service everything it sells. 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. TRAINOR GLASS COMPANY 202 N Dixie Way, South Bend. 574.855.2380. trainorglass.com. Since 1953, Trainor Glass has specialized in commercial glass and glazing. Their state-

of-the-art glass can be installed just about anywhere, from partitions, walls and doors, to the shower and bath. The inventory includes endless variations of glass, including clear, frosted, patterned and backpainted glass, along with digitally printed glass products. Trainor serves all of Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan.

Michigan

DESIGN EVOLUTIONS 218 Huron St #1, South Haven. 269.372.2250. marlabruemmerdesigns.com. Marla Bruemmer has specialized in architectural design for twenty years and began Design Evolutions in 1998. Bruemmer and her CAD designer, Brandon Thomas, use 3D software to convert hand-drawn sketches into a model for each custom home. POWELL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES 3531 Niles Rd, St. Joseph. 269.556.1111. powellconstruction.com. Powell Construction Services specializes in new residential construction and remodeling; kitchen, bath and basement renovations; light commercial remodeling and custom woodworking. Known for their outstanding customer service, quality construction and design, on-time delivery, and overall value, this leading Southwest Michigan builder follows the National Association of Home Builder’s Model Green Home Building Guidelines. R.A. MORT SUPPLY 2260 M-139, Benton Harbor. 269.927.8288. ramortsupply.com. This bath gallery, which features a complete kitchen and bath design center with working displays, will give customers ideas about how they can personalize their own homes, and the experts at R.A. Mort Supply can help make it happen. WATER PLACE 188 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 has “everything you need for plumbing services.”

photograph courtesy of BRET BORTNER

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

Illinois

BLINK APPLIANCES & KITCHENS 2717 Glenwood-Lansing Rd, Lynwood. 708.889.1860. blink.homeappliances. com. Specializing in sales, service, installation and parts for forty-nine years, Blink Appliances is affiliated with Brand Source, one of the largest buying groups in the nation. The knowledgeable sales staff has won national awards for its service and installation of quality appliances and cabinetry.

clean Michigan

FISH WINDOW CLEANING 4188 N Roosevelt Rd, Stevensville. 269.408.0400. ﬁshwindowcleaning.com. The highly trained professionals here specialize in cleaning interior and exterior windows for both commercial and residential clients. Pressure washing services are also available.

design Indiana

THE BEACH HOUSE 619 E 3rd St, Hobart. 219.942.0783. The 1,000-square-foot showroom at the Beach House features “beachy,” cottagestyle home furnishing and accessories. In the store’s lower level, the Wicker Gallery, custom orders are accepted. The store began as and still houses an upscale showroom of very current, high-quality, pre-owned furniture known as Like New. INDIANA FURNITURE 1807 E Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 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. MC INTERIORS 1102 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.872.7236. mcinteriorsin.com. MC Interiors offers a variety of home décor products including window treatments, fl oor coverings, draperies and upholstery. Services include free in-home consultation and estimates, plus installation of drapery, blinds, carpet, hardwood and ceramic flooring. NO PLACE LIKE HOME 110 Elmwood Dr, Michigan City. 219.879.9140. 400 E Randolph St, Ste 3414, Chicago. 312.938.9140. nplhinc.com. This eco-minded interior design fi rm has multiple specialties, including space planning, architectural design consultation, kitchen and bath design and renovations, custom cabinetry design and installation, and selection of additional materials, plus decorating and staging services. URBAN GRANITE 512 State St, LaPorte. 219.369.6663. urban-granite.com. Urban Granite specializes in making custom flooring, cabinets, backsplashes and countertops. Both conventional and unique materials— such as bamboo fl oors and metal backsplashes—are available here.

Michigan

BAYBERRY COTTAGE 510 Phoenix Rd, South Haven. 269.639.9615. 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. 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 new showroom features teak root benches, textiles, Indonesian pottery, unique new furniture and an extensive mirror gallery. Claudia Labao’s Global Dreams jewelry—popular with the stars of Desperate Housewives—can also be found here. HARBOR TOWN INTERIORS 613 Broad St, St.Joseph. 269.983.7774. Harbor Town Interiors offers home decor items such as furniture, mattresses, bed coverings, rugs, and home accessories. Gift items and full service design consultation is available. 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.

Illinois

ANTIQUE TIN EXPRESSIONS Rurul Route 1, Mapleton. 309.565.4876. antiquetinexpressions.net. Artist Lori Daniels reclaims tins and turns them into works of art, adding paint and glaze to create tin relief sculptures, as well as tiles and collages. Her work can be found in her Mapleton gallery but is also available locally at Thistle Gallery in Holland, Mich., and the Vale Craft Gallery and Lotton Gallery in Chicago.

drive Indiana

DORMAN GARAGE, INC. 1317 Lake St, LaPorte. 219.324.7646. dormangarage.com. With more than twenty years of experience, Dorman Garage specializes in classic car restoration. Aside from offering restoration services, there is also a large inventory of restored classic automobiles for sale. HARBOR AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 9911 W 300 N, Michigan City. 219.879.6789. harborcars.com. This auto dynamo features new and pre-owned vehicles by Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, GMC, Honda, Jeep and Pontiac. On-site parts, servicing and financing are also available. THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOP OF MICHIGAN CITY 2968 N Hwy 421, Michigan City. 219.878.8885. hdmichigancity.com. While the Harley-Davidson brand needs no introduction, the Michigan City store stands out in the crowd, being a member of the largest Harley dealer in the state. A large selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles are available for purchase or for rent. The store also offers accessories, repair services and periodic events. LEXUS OF MERRILLVILLE 3957 US Hwy 30, Merrillville. 219.769.4545. lexusofmerrillville.com.

shore THINGS Lexus vehicles and customer service-focused sales teams can be found at this dealership, which features new and pre-owned vehicles—including luxury and sport sedans, SUVs and convertibles. Financing, vehicle services and parts and accessories are also available.

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.

eat Indiana

GREAT LAKES CATERING 701 Washington St, Michigan City. 219.898.1501. greatlakescatering.com. With a combined 75 years of experience, father and son Ed and Matt Kis 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.

Michigan

KILWIN’S Multiple locations in Illinois and Michigan. kilwins.com. For more than 60 years, Kilwin’s has been a quality confectionery shoppe in northern Michigan, providing quality products and excellent services. Despite growing throughout the United States and changing ownership, they still use only the finest and freshest ingredients in their hand-paddled fudge, custom chocolates and truffles. SEASON’S HARVEST 13686 Red Arrow Hwy, Harbert. 269.469.7899. seasonsharvest.com. This quaint shop along Red Arrow Highway features natural gourmet provisions like barbecue sauces, salad dressings, dipping sauces and olive oil, among others. Products can be purchased either online or at the shop, and gift sets are available.

give Indiana

FORMAL ACCENTS 7982 Wicker Ave, St. John. 219.365.0159. formalaccents.com. Formal Accents offers high-quality bridal accessories and custom favors, plus baby gifts and prom keepsakes. Brides will fi nd an array of items ideal for the wedding day, including attendant gifts, stationery, fl ower girl accessories, cake knives and servers, and a large inventory of jewelry and formal purses.

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SHADY CREEK WINERY 2030 Tryon Rd, Michigan City. 219.874.9463. shadycreekwinery.com. Situated on nearly 20 acres, this winery features custom crafted wines, along with specialty foods, gifts and local artwork. The location offers expansive views, covered porches, fireplaces and a tasting room. ST. JOHN WINE & SPIRITS 9540 Poplar Ln, St. John. 219.558.8911. stjohnwineandspirits.com. Both the connoisseur and the beginner alike will feel comfortable in this shop, which features a wide variety of fine wines, beer and spirits. The staff is trained to assist customers with selection needs, in order “to take the intimidation out of shopping for wine and spirits.” Wine tastings are held here often, and gifts and accessories are also available.

VINTAGE ROSE 316 E Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.325.0850. Vintage Rose is an antiques and gift shop that adds some dazzle to the east end of downtown LaPorte. Its fatherdaughter duo owners are hawking classy antiques, regionally produced gifts and a festive atmosphere. Popular items include hand-made beaded socks, intricate floral arrangements and melt-in-your-mouth treats from the South Bend Chocolate Company.

Michigan

DECADENT DOGS 505 Phoenix St, South Haven. 866.459.5437. This dog-exclusive boutique features highend canine products, including designer dog collars and apparel, toys and gourmet dog treats. For the humans, dog-oriented gifts and décor items are also available. LAMBRECHT’S LIQUORS 2926 Niles Ave, St. Joseph. 269.983.5353. lambrechtsliquors.com. Lambrecht’s features a comprehensive selection of wines, beers, spirits, cigars, pipes and tobacco products. Specialty items include beer and winemaking equipment and supplies and gourmet coffees and cheeses. Occasional tasting events and seminars are offered as well.

heal Indiana

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. DIGESTIVE DISEASE CLINICS Locations in Merrillville, Michigan City, Valparaiso, and St. Joseph, Mich. 800.422.9080. stomachdoctors.com. Rakesh Gupta, MD, and his medical staff specialize in treating a variety of problems occuring in the stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver, gallbladder and esophagus. The clinic operates with a philosophy of balanced management and will work with patients’ schedules to ensure treatment. MIND YOUR OWN BODY HEALTH CENTER 4004 Campbell St, Valparaiso. 219.531.0241. naturaldoctor.biz. Dr. William Stimack, N.M.D., is a board-certified doctor of naturopathic medicine who treats a wide variety of health issues with a three-tiered plan: nutritional counseling, plant-based herbs, and Jade/Derma Ray therapy. Dr. Stimack and his staff also offer detoxification plans for aiding in hormonal imbalance and the relief of fibromyalgia and other autoimmune disorders. OBSTETRICAL & GYNECOLOGICAL ASSOCIATES, INC. 1101 E Glendale Blvd, Ste 102, Valparaiso. 219.462.6144. 3630 Willowcreek Rd, Ste 1, Portage. 219.364.3230. The boardcertified obstetrician-gynecologists—Drs. Short, Strickland and Murphy—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-ofthe-art equipment and a skilled staff. PORTER HOSPITAL 814 LaPorte Ave, Valparaiso. 219.263.4600. 3630 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. 219.364.3000. 650 Dickinson Rd, Chester-

ton. 219.926.7755. porterhealth.org. Since opening in 1939 as a community-owned, not-for-profit hospital, Porter has served area families by providing quality care and programs. 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. ANTHONY MEMORIAL 301 W Homer St, Michigan City. 888.879.8511. 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, emergency department, behavioral medicine, rehabilitation services, surgery units, oncology, pediatrics and a multidiscipline physician practice. ST. MARY MEDICAL CENTER 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.942.0551. comhs.org/stmary. Innovative women’s health services are available here, including complete gynecologic and obstetrical care, plus treatment for high-risk pregnancies and menopause. Functional, metabolic and nutritional medicine is practiced wherever possible.

Illinois

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO MEDICAL CENTER 888.824.0200. 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.

learn Illinois

MARIAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 700 Ashland Ave, Chicago Heights. 708.755.7565. marianchs.com. Marian is a Catholic, college-preparatory, coed high school in the Dominican tradition. The diverse student body hails from 70 communities in Illinois and Northwest Indiana. Campus amenities include a theater, student chapel, research library, a learning resource center and more.

live Indiana

COLDWELL BANKER, DAWN BERNHARDT 748 E Porter, Chesterton. 219.241.0952. dawnbernhardt.com. Dawn Bernhardt is the go-to agent for homes in Chesterton’s luxurious Sand Creek subdivision, along with other properties in Porter, LaPorte and Lake Counties. The website offers an abundance of resources for both buyers and sellers. COLDWELL BANKER, DONNA HOFMANN 219.331.1133. dhofmann.com. Donna Hofmann specializes in helping clients with buying and selling lakefront properties in Ogden Dunes, Dune Acres, Porter Beach, Beverly Shores, Chesterton and Valparaiso.

Michigan

AMERICAN HOMES, SHARON HALLIBURTON 4532 Red Arrow Hwy, Stevensville. 269.983.2526. sharonhalliburton.com. For

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. BRIDGEWATER PLACE 225 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo. 269.469.9500. bridgewaterofnewbuffalo. com. Two- and three-bedroom condominiums are available at this luxury development, which is situated in downtown New Buffalo. Amenities include a fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, elevated patios and a rooftop terrace with kitchenette. COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 10 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo. 269.469.3950. coldwellbankeronline.com. This New Buffalo real estate firm features more than 200,000 properties in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Both the inoffice staff and the Coldwell Banker website offer multiple services and resources for buyers and sellers. HARBOR SHORES REALTORS 584 Lake St, Saugatuck. 269.857.3900. harborshoresrealtors.com. Principal broker Tammy Kerr and team specialize in helping their clients buy and sell properties in the Saugatuck/Douglas area. Each of the agents are members of the National Association of REALTORS. HARBOR SHORES RESORT 269.932.1600. harborshoresresort.com. Southwest Michigan’s biggest, most talkedabout 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 homesites and cottages are available. LAKE PARK PLACE 301 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.429.4663. 301lakeboulevard.com. This new, sevenstory condominium development is being constructed in the historic building that was formerly the YWCA. Residents can choose from 10 floor plans, each of which come with a private balcony. Other perks include an indoor parking garage, indoor pool and 10 years of free golf at two nearby golf courses. PRUDENTIAL RUBLOFF PROPERTIES 439 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo. 888.257.5800. 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

pamper Indiana

COSMEDIC SKIN & BODY CLINIC 210 E 86th Pl, Merrillville. 219.795.1255. 58 E Walton, Chicago. 312.377.3333. cosmedicclinic.com. Available by appointment. 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 nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, particularly breast surgery, body contouring and facial aesthetic surgery. Less invasive procedures include tanning, waxing and facials. 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, 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 five guest rooms blending calming Asian and classically antique influences and a dining room, which serves twenty-six people vegetables from the garden and other goodies. VANIS SALON & SPA 221 US 41, Ste J, Schererville. 219.322.5600. 1620 Country Club Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.6414. 107 N Main St, Crown Point. 219.663.5200. vanis.net. One of Northwest Indiana’s premier salons, Vanis features a well-trained, 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

MARQUETTE PARK PAVILION 1 N Grand Blvd, Gary. 219.938.7362. This historic pavilion is one of the only event facilities in Indiana located right along the lakefront. Recently renovated in 2008,

Michigan

SHADOWLAND ON SILVER BEACH 333 Broad St, St. Joseph. 888.404.7587. shadowlandonsilverbeach.com. St. Joseph’s newest event venue is located right on the beach, in the same building as the famed Silver Beach Carousel. Shadowland, which can accommodate more than 300 guests, partners with Bistro on the Boulevard for a dynamic catering menu. The venue is available for wedding receptions, business meetings and other special occasions.

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. Brand new to the facility is the 22-story Spa Blu Tower, which features a state-ofthe-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.

Michigan

FOUR WINDS CASINO 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Michigan. 866.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com. With 3,000 of the most recent types of slot machines and more than 100 tables games, including blackjack and craps, New Buffalo’s Four Winds is the only casino in the area that offers million dollar jackpots. This brand new casino also has the Midwest’s only World Poker Tour poker room.

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DUNELAND BEACH INN 3311 Pottawattamie Tr, Michigan City. 219.874.7729. dunelandbeachinn.com. Nestled in a private wooded community on the beach, yet only minutes from Michigan City’s best shopping and dining, this cozy inn provides guests with comfort and convenience. Also on the premises is Duneland Beach Inn’s fine dining restaurant, which features steaks, chops, pasta and seafood.

Michigan

THE BOULEVARD INN 521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.6600. theboulevardinn.com. Warmth and coziness are a theme at this historic hotel in St. Joseph. From the plush furniture in the lobby to the comfort food at the Bistro, to the luxurious amenities in the hotel’s suites, the Boulevard offers more than just a place to stay. Business and fitness centers are also available for use.

view Indiana

HEART TO HEART GALLERY 921 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.2300. With home accent items created by nearly 300 artists, Heart to Heart has been selected as a Top 100 gallery for five consecutive years. The gallery features fine American craft, including original art and sculpture, gift items and jewelry.

December 2010/January 2011

YOGA GLOW 6 Linden St, Three Oaks. 269.697.4394. yogathreeoaks.com. This renowned yoga studio features group yoga classes and private lessons for all levels, plus workshops every month. Patrons are encouraged to visit Yoga Glow’s website for class schedules, teacher bios and other yogarelated information.

the pavilion can be rented for events of all sizes, from weddings to family reunions to business functions.

apartments come with a variety of amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, wireless Internet access, DirecTV satellite service and an exercise room.

shore THINGS

Michigan

BLUE GALLERY 16 S Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.9338. bluegalleryart.com. Run by owner and art director Judy Ferrara, this well-known gallery features the works of more than 15 artists, including local notables like Joe Hindley and Kellie Pickard. Several art-related events take place here, including a gallery walk every third Saturday of the month, when the facility is open until 9 p.m. BOX FACTORY FOR THE ARTS 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. This multi-use arts center features the studios of more than 30 artists who specialize in ceramics, fabric art, painting, printmaking, photography and more. Artists give classes and also have their work on display for various exhibits and for purchase. The center also hosts a performance stage, classrooms and meeting space, and events are held there regularly. GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids. 616.831.1000. gramonline.org. The Grand Rapids Art Museum is the first art museum in the world to be certified by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Its glass walls, natural light, and reflecting pool further illustrate the fusion between the indoors and outdoors. With its impressive permanent collection as well as changing exhibitions, this 125,000-squarefoot facility is truly a gem in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

visit Indiana

THE SHRINE OF CHRIST’S PASSION 10630 Wicker Ave, St. John. 219.365.6010. shrineofchristspassion.org. This peaceful, prayerful environment consists of an interactive half-mile winding pathway that takes visitors from the Last Supper to the Ascension of the Christ. The journey features 40 life-size bronze statues that are accompanied by a listening station that gives a description of the scene. The Visitor’s Center and Gift Shop carries a unique selection of books and gifts for people of all faiths.

Michigan

ST. JOSEPH TODAY 120 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.

SOUTHWEST 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.

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. AMY LAURIE’S ECLECTIC BOUTIQUE 613 N Main St, Crown Point. 219.661.8094. This boutique features clothing for women of all ages and sizes, including jackets, wraps, sweaters, evening wear, accessories and shoes. Owners Judith Kaye and Nancy C. Goodwin update the inventory regularly, while also offering frequent sales. DUNHILL TUXEDOS Multiple locations in Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan. 800.445.1889. dunhilltuxedos.com. Names such as Ralph Lauren, Claiborne and Perry Ellis fill the multiple locations of Dunhill Tuxedos, with special wedding deals that include free groom tuxedos 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. HUNCH FURS 2021 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville. 219.769.4270. hunchfurs.net. Situated in a quaint, cozy brick home, this family-owned company has been selling furs, fine leathers and motorcycle apparel since 1938. Along with extras like hats, purses, scarves and gloves, Hunch Furs also offers repair and cleaning services. INDIAN SUMMER, CHESTERTON 131 S Calumet Rd, Chesterton. 219.983.9994. This women’s clothing boutique offers casual and contemporary clothing and jewelry from around the world. Indian Summer features brands

such as Sympli, Oh My Gauze, Completo, Flax, Connie’s Moonlight, Minnetonka, Big Buddha and San Miguel shoes. The Chesterton shop offers a large selection of apparel, jewelry and accessories, while the original New Buffalo storefront continues to feature its quality inventory for those on the other side of the lake. JUDEE’S 1104 Indiana Ave, LaPorte. 219.324.6443. judees.com. Owner Judee Gartland and her daughter frequently travel to the garment districts in New York and Chicago to build the inventory in their store, which is situated in a stately Victorian home in downtown LaPorte. Clothing for all occasions is available here, including formalwear. Designers include Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, Neon Buddha, Alex Evenings and Brighton bags and accessories. LIGHTHOUSE PLACE PREMIUM OUTLETS 601 Wabash St, Michigan City. 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. 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. LUX & MIE 404 E Lincolnway, Valparaiso. 219.464.3330. luxandmie.com. Fashions and accessories in contemporary, trendy and casual-chic styles come together at Lux & Mie, an upscale boutique owned by mother-daughter pair Kate and Jamie Salan. The fashionable selection appeals to both men and women, from high school age to those in their 50s and 60s. Featured designers include English Laundry, Covet and Wish Collection. REVIVE CONSIGNMENTS 523 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.814.4063. reviveconsignments.com. This upscale consignment boutique, located in the historic Franklin Square district, features gently worn and new designer clothing, shoes and accessories. Furniture, art and jewelry—all made by local and national artists—are also available for purchase.

Michigan

CATHERINE DOLL 5844 Sawyer Rd, Sawyer. 269.426.3958. catherinedoll.com. Catherine Doll is a painter-turned-clothing-designer, creating sustainable fashion from repurposed clothing. Her collection is fluid and includes recycled tees, jackets, skirts and collage tops. Doll’s clothing can be found in boutiques all over the U.S. as well as in her own boutique in Sawyer. CRESCENT MOON 413 Phoenix Rd, South Haven. 269.637.5119. Situated in downtown South Haven, this boutique features women’s apparel that ranges from dressy to casual to sportswear. Brands include Lole, Fresh Produce, and Pure. Also available are shoes, jewelry and home décor items, including Mariposa serving pieces.

DK BOUTIQUE 213 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.7313. dkboutique.com. This contemporary women’s clothing boutique in downtown St. Joe offers limited edition designer apparel, cool new accessories and the latest designs in jewelry from Pandora Jewelry. With something for everyone, from teenagers and older, DK Boutique provides the most current styles that are full of flair. EVE 319 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.4372. This boutique for women is a longtime favorite among visitors to downtown St. Joseph. Owned by Rachel Arent, Eve specializes in artisan-designed clothing and trendy jewelry and accessories. Some of the more popular designers found here include Linda Lundstrom, Lee Andersen, Sympli, Painted Pony and Fenini. Eve’s selection of linen clothing is wildly popular among customers. INDIAN SUMMER, NEW BUFFALO 126 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo, Mich. 269.469.9994. This women’s clothing boutique offers casual and contemporary clothing and jewelry from around the world. Indian Summer features brands such as Sympli, Oh My Gauze, Completo, Flax, Connie’s Moonlight, Minnetonka, and San Miguel shoes. The Chesterton shop also offers a distinctive selection of apparel, jewelry and accessories. MOXIE’S BOUTIQUE 321 State St, St. Joseph. 269.983.4273. moxiesboutique.com. This fun and festive boutique features women’s fashions, accessories and gifts. Apparel—from designers such as Belamie, Flashback Couture and Nic & Zoe—comes in a range of styles and prices. Many local artists’ works are available here as well, including handbags, scarves, jewelry, furniture and art.

Illinois

CLAIRE A BELLA BOUTIQUE 115 Kansas St, Frankfort. 815.464.9690. claireabellaboutique.com. The owners of this shoe boutique also call it the Giving Back Boutique, as they and their vendors give a portion of their proceeds to those in need. Many of the items here—including shoes, handbags, jewelry, coats and more— also are made with recycled products. DUO’S NEARLY NU 2015 Ridge Rd, Homewood. 708.798.0075. Shopping is fun at this upscale consignment shop as fashions change with every season. Loyal customers have been coming for nearly 30 years for high-quality new and “nearly nu” designer clothing, jewelry and accessories, including fine purses and wallets with designer labels, such as Coach, Fendi, Dooney & Burke and Chanel. GIRLFRIENDS CLOSET 55 W Bankview Dr, Frankfort. 815.469.8960. girlfriendscloset.com. It’s easy to buy a whole new wardrobe at this contemporary boutique, which offers a modern, sophisticated selection of tops, pants, blazers, jackets, dresses and shoes. Wallets and accessories are also available here. There are regular promotional events and sales, and customers can even sign up to be in the Girlfriends Closet club.

For more business listings, please go to visitshoremagazine.com

December 2010/January 2011

FERNWOOD BOTANICAL GARDEN & NATURE PRESERVE 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles. 269.695.6491. fernwoodbotanical.org. Situated on 105 acres of cultivated and natural land, Fernwood is composed of gardens, forests and trails for visitors to peruse. An art gallery, fern conservatory, nature center, cafe and gift shop are also on site, and there are several learning and enrichment opportunities as well.

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, handcarved horses. Also at the center is Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone, the Shadowland Ballroom, Whirlpool Compass Fountain, and Michigan’s tallest kaleidoscope.

THADDEUS C. GALLERY 822 Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.326.8626. thaddeusc.com. Often recognized as one of the top fine art galleries in Northwest Indiana, this gallery is located in a 2000-squarefoot ground floor space, right in the heart of downtown LaPorte. Both contemporary and traditional fine art is found here, featuring functional and non-functional art by artisans from around the world.

shorecast PREDICTIONS BY FRAN SMITH

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

actor JOHN MALKOVICH

[sagittarius] NOVEMBER 23DECEMBER 21 KEY WORDS in December: Center Stage. Yes! It’s the start of your personal New Year and it’s the holidays! Luxuriate in both—and be the generous, the enthusiastic, and the brilliant You. Means that you’ll know exactly where to be—and with whom. SIDESTEP canceling at the last minute. KEY WORDS in January: Your Financial Affairs. It’s back to business now, for Saturn (that serious planet which governs your second house of income) is taking a good look at your bookkeeping. Time now to apply your intelligence to current situations. SIDESTEP having no real budget.

[aquarius] JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 18 KEY WORDS in December: Your Secret Agenda. With characteristic ease, you’ll weave both your personal and your professional existence into a harmonious whole. The holidays—with all their complexities—seem to have been designed for your talent. SIDESTEP uncharacteristic shyness.

[cancer] JUNE 21-JULY 22 KEY WORDS in December: The Work Scene. Others are absorbed with the approaching holiday season. And you’d like to be, too. But the siren call of certain workrelated endeavors beckons. Now is not the time to ignore it, for what you create will be noteworthy. SIDESTEP not being present.

KEY WORDS in January: Private Matters. Without missing a beat, you’ll move ahead into the New Year—and into some basic 12-month strategy plans. Most likely, you’ll work alone on this. And with great assurance, present the package early February. SIDESTEP the truly boring routine.

KEY WORDS in January: A New Type of Agreement. Given that you devise all sorts of agreements throughout the year—why is this one important? It’s important because it signals the start of a new trend in professional relationships. Still, advance at your own pace. SIDESTEP any reluctance.

[pisces] FEBRUARY 19-MARCH 20 KEY WORDS in December: Climbing to the Summit. It’s so unlike you, focusing time and attention—at the height of the holiday season—on the advancement of your career. But there it is. And you’ll emerge victorious, for all to celebrate. SIDESTEP criticism—of others, of yourself.

[leo] JULY 23-AUGUST 22 KEY WORDS in December: Hearts Afire. Perfect! Celebrations take place everywhere—and you’re usually in the middle of them. Know what you want, as well as whom you want. This is the season not only to be jolly, but also to obtain the desires of your heart. SIDESTEP the sharp answer.

KEY WORDS in January: Heart’s Desire. A brand of seriousness that you’re not usually comfortable with, now surfaces. Work closely with this—and you can actually gain one or two things that seemed impossible just a short time ago. Try it—and surprise yourself. SIDESTEP a lack of focus. [aries] MARCH 21-APRIL 20 KEY WORDS in December: People, Plans and Projects— near and at a distance. The holidays always hold a special meaning for you. No matter where you are (and you try to be somewhere), you’re filled with the hope and optimism of the season. Excellent! SIDESTEP too many new people. KEY WORDS in January: Your Career. No sooner does the New Year, 2011, arrive, than you’re off and running. Especially as it applies to the new direction that your career is taking—or is about to take. But have all the facts before you say yes! SIDESTEP constant indecision, on your part.

iconic boxer MUHAMMAD ALI

[capricorn] DECEMBER 22JANUARY 19 KEY WORDS in December: Confidential Matters and ClosedDoor Strategy-Planning Sessions. Who else but You would relish privacy right in the midst of the holiday season? No one. But you’ll put it to good use—and still find time to celebrate! SIDESTEP too many calls; too many visitors.

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KEY WORDS in January: In the Limelight. You’re a Lucky Duck, for you start the New Year (every New Year) right on the wave of new beginnings within your first house of personal endeavors. Steer a straight course, as the world awaits your pronouncements. SIDESTEP scattering your energy.

[taurus] APRIL 21-MAY 20 KEY WORD in December: Revitalization, on all levels— mental, emotional, physical, financial and spiritual. Right in the midst of the holidays, you usually stage a comeback of some sort. But since much is going on, few notice. But you do. And silently welcome it. SIDESTEP taking shortcuts. KEY WORDS in January: New Contacts and New Projects— destined to start the New Year on a high note. The importance of late-breaking developments doesn’t escape your attention. Handle matters as soon as possible. Success is involved. SIDESTEP a reluctance to seek new contacts. [gemini] MAY 21-JUNE 20 KEY WORDS in December: Special Arrangements. Just what you’ve been waiting for. However, the merriment of the season could distract you. Don’t allow it. Formulate those Special Arrangements, whatever form they take. Then, have fun! SIDESTEP arrogance—yours or someone else’s. KEY WORD in January: Renewal. You may not have time to ease into the New Year. Instead, change and progress could occur for you—mentally, emotionally, physically, financially and spiritually—very, very quickly. Go for it! SIDESTEP taking your time getting started with new projects.

KEY WORDS in January: Your Work. Just as everyone is making their way carefully into the New Year, you’re eagerly jumping into the work scene. Great! Stay with this action plan, and you’ll start 2011 in fine fashion. SIDESTEP the disappearing act—when your presence is invaluable. [virgo] AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 22 KEY WORD in December: Home. This is your idea of perfect timing. Both the holidays and your involvement with home-related matters dovetail. Allow for a good measure of optimism and generosity, on your part. And you’ll do beautifully. SIDESTEP working against your own best interests. KEY WORDS in January: Love Is in the Air. You’ll quietly slip into the New Year—and into the possible start of a new relationship. Or a new creative involvement. Whichever it is (possibly both?), the pacing is ideal. Keep your own counsel. S IDESTEP a s lowness t o ex press you r f eelings. [libra] SEPTEMBER 23-OCTOBER 22 KEY WORDS in December: A Combination of Words. There you are—right in your element. It’s holiday time— and all forms of communications are, literally, at your fingertips. Be exactly who you are, and everything will work out to your advantage. SIDESTEP staying only with the familiar. KEY WORDS in January: Your Base of Operations—where you live and where you work. It’s back to the drawing board now, as you sort out certain conditions left over from last year. Be diplomatic; that’s always good. SIDESTEP not being involved in the way you should be involved. [scorpio] OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 22 KEY WORDS in December: Your Possessions and Lifestyle. Secrecy, on all levels, permeates the season. And that alone makes you feel enormously comfortable. Advance silently, as sources of income could increase—now or some time in early January. SIDESTEP letting your record-keeping slip. KEY WORDS in January: All Forms of Communications. Reach out boldly (your style) for what you want. Know that specifics—accurate facts and figures—are required, if you’re to get all that you’re asking for. Actually, this is very easy for you. SIDESTEP high drama at the wrong moment.

WANT MORE? please go to page 50 or visitshoremagazine.com for a full listing of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best events and watch the Shore Weekender with Julia for the absolute best picks for a great weekend.

Nov 19 LUMINARY FESTIVAL dusk-9pm downtown St. Joseph sjtoday.org Downtown St. Joseph is aglow with the holiday spirit as 800 luminaries adorn the area. Shoppers may take advantage of seasonal activities, such as free horse-drawn trolley rides, holiday musical entertainment and refreshments from downtown merchants.

Nov 27 HOLIDAY PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY parade 12:30pm, Santa 1-3pm tree lighting 6:30pm New Buffalo newbuffalo.com The Holiday Parade with Santa begins at Harbor Grand, travels down Whittaker Street with floats created by residents and businesses, and ends at the New Buffalo Fire Station. After the parade, children can see Santa. The tree lighting ceremony, with caroling and hot chocolate, takes place at the corner of Whittaker and Mechanic Streets.

Dec 2-Jan 2 WINTER WONDERFEST 10am-8pm Sun-Thu 10am-10pm Fri-Sat Navy Pier 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago 312.595.7437 winterwonderfest.com This is the tenth annual year for this event, which features more than 750,000 holiday ornaments, hundreds of decorated trees, an indoor Ferris wheel, games, carolers and more.

Lake Michigan

shore PICKS Jan 22 8TH ANNUAL GARDENING SHOW 9am-4pm Porter County Expo Center 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso 219.465.3555 ext 21 pcgarden.info Sponsored by the Porter County Master Gardeners Association, this show features presentations by regional and local gardening experts, a seed and bulb exchange, a gardening photo contest, a juried plant show, more than 85 exhibitors and vendors of gardening products, and more.

last resort

Special Presentations

Sentimental types like me, however, prefer the old-school stop-motion charms of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer [1964], the longest-running of the bunch. Despite its politically incorrect tendencies (Donner to his wife: “No! This is man’s work!”), there’s just nothing that tugs at my holiday heartstrings like Rudolph’s girlfriend Clarice, adorably blinking her big by KATHRYN MACNEIL eyes, sweetly trilling “There’s Always Tomorrow” while a quartet of earnest bunnies and raccoons sing backup and sway to the beat. And your heart would Holidays are delightful. They treat us to days off work to recognize have to be pretty “Frosty” not to melt notable individuals (Martin Luther King Jr., Columbus), remind us when Santa’s sleigh finally touches to appreciate important people in our lives (Mother’s Day, Father’s down on the Island of Misfit Toys to Day), give us permission to consume an appalling appropriate whisk the melancholy playthings away to good homes. amount of chocolate (Valentine’s Day), or, when we’re really In order to maintain the true lucky, they mandate a parade, fireworks and all the charred vintage experience, I find that modern meat we can possibly hold down (Fourth of July). technology must be carefully avoided when viewing these old favorites. After all, the anti-commercialism sentiment of A Charlie Brown Christmas is instantly cancelled out if the program ut when we refer to “the” holidays (oh, what an is viewed in Blu-ray. And in my high-definition, two-TiVo household, ominous impact those three little letters have!) we are it is still forbidden to actually record any of the seasonal specials; they referring to that intimidating swath of time that used must be viewed live, because even the jarring, ill-timed commercial to last from Thanksgiving Day until New Year’s Day. breaks inform the audience’s collective memory, from such indelible Now, of course, I think it’s safe to say that shopping images as Santa zipping over snow drifts on a Norelco electric razor for “the holidays” begins before Halloween, with the (“Noëlco,” anyone?) to, more recently, that talented bell choir of competitive shoppers (and you know who you are) Hershey’s Kisses playing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” And who clocking in as early as Labor Day (if they ever really can forget sweater-clad son Peter, returning home from college in the stopped at all). In fact, the accompanying phenomenon, “Indignant wee hours of Christmas morning, rousing his sleeping family with the Consumer Syndrome” (i.e. public outrage over the fact that retailers tantalizing aroma of a steaming pot of Folgers coffee? (It’s the best are putting out holiday displays too early), begins to rear its ugly head part of waking up!) right after the Back-to-School racks are cleared. Sure, there are also dozens of favorite seasonal songs and holiday To add context, common uses of the phrase “the holidays” include movies (my family can recite verbatim entire scenes from National the following: Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story). But there’s • Gleeful competitive shopper, around the first of October: “I’m just something about gathering together with the kids every year, taking about ready for the holidays. Are you?” an hour out of a random freezing weeknight to share a common • Frazzled coworker: “Sorry, I can’t possibly tackle that project until experience that links all of our childhoods together. When that warning after the holidays.” comes on (“Our regularly scheduled • Me, on New Year’s Day: “I gained nine pounds over the holidays, program will not be seen tonight, in but I plan to start dieting immediately . . . well, right after order to bring you this special holiday Valentine’s Day . . . or maybe Easter, just to be safe.” presentation”), the resulting There’s no doubt about it, the holidays can be stressful, expensive childlike and fattening. But there’s something that keeps us grounded through anticipation is it all—traditions. Adhering to holiday traditions is comforting; for contagious. better or for worse, we generally know where we’re going, whom Because no we’re going to be seeing when we get there, and, most importantly, matter how what we’ll all be eating. stressful Unfortunately, most traditions, even those we hold dearest, everyday necessarily evolve over time: kids grow up and get married, Grandma life may be, and Grandpa move to Florida, a formerly great dinner host becomes everyone, young a vegan, etc. But one tradition never seems to change: the timeless or old, can use a gentle holiday TV special. reminder—even one People tend to be at once sentimental and opinionated about that is dispensed by an their holiday TV viewing. Although A Charlie Brown Christmas [1965] animated reindeer— is pretty much universally beloved, other shows tend to be more that “There’s Always polarizing. More cynical types find that their heart grows three sizes Tomorrow.” when they watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas [1966], and there’s No wonder they’re no telling how many family dogs were subsequently named Max in called “specials.” honor of the Grinch’s beleaguered canine companion.

THE HOLIDAYS MAY EVOLVE, BUT TV IS TIMELESS

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ILLUSTRATION BY RYAN BERRY