EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com
EDITOR Lauren Zeugner lzeugner@the-papers.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Karen Johnson kjohnson@the-papers.com
Kristin DeVittorio kdevittorio@the-papers.com
BUSINESS MANAGER Annette Weaver aweaver@the-papers.com
BethAnne Brink-Cox Julie
Nicholette Carlson
Kimberly Zellers
MARKETING
Darlene Eichelberger deichelberger@the-papers.com Reagan Nichols rnichols@the-papers.com DIRECTOR
Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com
EDITOR’S NOTE...
Despite the snow and cold we’ve had lately, there are signs spring is on the way. And no, I am not talking about Punxsutawney Phil being unceremoniously yanked out of his warm burrow just to give a weather report.
Nope, the sure signs spring is on the way are the BAEC Home and the Outdoor Expo in Elkhart and the Midwest Home and Yard Show in Shipshewana. These two shows offer great opportunities to check out what’s trending in all landscaping, home improvement and much more. They also offer visitors an opportunity to check out local contractors and vendors and chat with them about potential projects.
If you’ve been suffering from cabin fever due to the weather, we’ve got some suggestions. Julie Young wrote about experiential activities that are great for a fun date night or a girls’ or guys’ night out. From sip and paint to escape rooms there are a whole host of fun activities for adults. Axe throwing anyone?
If you’re looking for something quieter, indoor hobbies such as knitting and croqueting are experiencing a resurgence, as are playing board games and more. Nikki Carlson took a look at what’s available and where to find it.
February is also known for
Valentine’s Day. So we sought out some of the best places to have a romantic dinner or if you want to have a cozy dinner at home, where to go find some of the ingredients.
Our personality profile this month is Dr. Gerald Morris who received the 2025 Outstanding Physician Award from the IU School of Medicine. Morris is also a member of the Pokagan Tribe.
win, they got a lot of positive feedback from the crowd.
Be sure to check out this month’s recipe. It was provided by students in Wawasee High School’s culinary arts program. The students took their recipe to the Michiana Chili Cook-off last October and while they didn’t
So remember, regardless of what Punxsutawney Phil has to say on Groundhog Day, spring is coming. I promise.
Enjoy!
Love Language Romantic ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
Although flowers, candy and a heartfelt card may be the classic way to say “I love you” on Valentine’s Day, why not kick up your love language a notch or two? From upscale dining experiences, culinary options for a cozy dinner at home or a weekend getaway, we’ve got ideas to help you wear your heart on your sleeve and celebrate that special person in your life!
Decadent dining
For nearly 40 years, the Navarre Hospitality Group has been in pursuit of dining perfection. Founded by Kurt Janowsky, Navarre is at the helm of some of Michiana’s top restaurants and bars that offer sophisticated fare and top-tier service including Café Navarre in South Bend. NHG’s Cascade of South Bend presents a modern steakhouse experience with a classic steakhouse menu and fresh premium seafood. Featuring unparalleled views of the St. Joseph River and unmatched hospitality, Cascade is the perfect preamble to a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
“We’ve been to Cascade twice now, and each time has been absolutely amazing,” said Kailey Day in her Facebook review. “The food is beyond impressive…Everything we’ve tried has been full of flavor and beautifully plated. The atmosphere is as great as the food, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion.”
Looking to create a more intimate affair? Bourbon & Butcher is an old-world meat shop inside Corndance Tavern. This butcher shop and lunch counter is the perfect place to pick up some burgers, sandwiches or even a handcrafted charcuterie board for a cozy dinner at home or a romantic winter picnic.
The team at Bourbon & Butcher has searched for farmers who believe and practice responsible animal husbandry. Not only do they know where their products come from, but they know who they come from – local family farmers! Show your love for local growers as well as a locally owned business. You will be wowed with every bite!
Sweet retreat
Looking for a great place for a romantic getaway? The Oliver Inn Bed & Breakfast in South Bend is hard to top. Owned by Tom and Alice Erlandson, the 19th century, Queen Anne -style home has been updated with all of the latest accoutrements.
“It was given to Josephine Oliver by James Oliver (of the Oliver Chilled Plow and Tractor fame) in 1886 as a wedding present and it is really a very warm and inviting space in which to relax,” Alice said.
The home features nine historic guest rooms named for historic South Bend figures such as Knute Rockne, Clem Studebaker, and James Oliver featuring stunning appointments and a wide array of amenities per suite. There is also a 1912 Bavarian Tudor-style carriage house, which serves as a private chateau for guests looking for something extra special.
“There are 30 restaurants less than two miles away and we are just a few blocks away from the South Bend Chocolate Factory, the history museum and the Oliver Mansion, which gives tours every day, so there is plenty to do during your stay,” Alice said. “Whether you are celebrating your Valentine, an anniversary or a special occasion, any day is a good day to visit the Oliver Inn!” n
Are you experienced?
Experiential outings offer a fresh take on socialization
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
Looking for a way to refresh “date night” or an evening out with your pals?
Experiential outings can’t be beat! Not only is there the novelty of enjoying a new activity in a social setting, but experience-based get-togethers are actually good for you. They offer a release of dopamine, boost connection, create lasting memories and foster deeper communication while reducing stress.
Escape into a new activity
But wait, doesn’t dinner and a movie count as an “activity?” Technically, yes, but experiential outings mean going outside your comfort zone to try something new or different. Love going out for drinks with your gal pals? Kick cocktails up a notch by combining it with a round of darts, a cooking class, or a collaborative game such as an escape room.
“We offer two different escape room experiences,” said Adrian Dollins of King’s Escape Rooms in Mishawaka. “In Cell Block E, you and your party are wrongfully convicted of a crime and have to escape from prison, while Mayday is a submarine survival adventure. Most people say that Cell Block E is the more challenging of the two, it all depends on your group and the people’s individual strengths.”
Dollins said as task-oriented people, humans are inherently collaborative, which makes escape rooms a great opportunity to do something outside the norm with friends. If escape rooms aren’t your thing, King’s also offers Extreme Bingo in King’s Play Café from 7-9 p.m. every Thursday for patrons 21 and older. While participation is free, King’s does ask that patrons spend $10 on food and drinks.
“We do that so that we can keep the lights on around here,” Dollins said. “Players have the opportunity to win various prizes, and we have a progressive jackpot that was up to $8,000 recently so it’s not your typical Bingo night.”
Get into the game
South Shore Social is a family-friendly restaurant and sports bar where friends can get together and unwind with a great selection of traditional fare as well as dart boards and golf simulators to keep you active.
Nate Scherer, co-owner, said customers appreciate a multifaceted facility that offers various activities in an intimate setting and these activities add a certain element to an outing that can enhance the whole experience.
Other experiential date night activity suggestions:
“People stay longer when they have things to do,” he said. “We offer something that is multigenerational and allows everyone to enjoy themselves. If golf simulators or darts aren’t your thing, we also have board games that people can play.”
Experiential outings are more than a trend, but something that can strengthen emotional connection, improve communication and break up the monotony of the tried and traditional. While great for any group to reduce stress and promote well-being, when applied in a first date setting, these accessible adventures are fantastic ice breakers. They can reveal more about a person than hours of small talk ever will. Long-term couples report that experiential dates lead to higher levels of relationship satisfaction and reinforce the “we-ness” of a relationship. n
photos: shutterstock.com
aroundmichiana
YEAR ROUND | MIDDLEBURY TRAIL TALES
Bring the family outdoors to read a children’s book while walking a short path at Riverbend Park; book pages are placed in special kiosks along the path. New books are installed monthly. Event partners are the Middlebury Public Library and Middlebury Parks Department.
FEB. 1-28 | SOUTH BEND SOUTH BEND FARMERS MARKET
Indoor market featuring homegrown produce, dairy products, meats, eggs, maple syrup, jams and jellies, handcrafts, artwork, jewelry and more. 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Free admission. 1105 Northside Blvd. (574) 282-1259 southbendfarmersmarket.com.
FEB. 6 | WAKARUSA WAKARUSA BLUE GRASS JAMBOREE
A host of local musicians and bands gather to pick, play and sing bluegrass, country and gospel in an informal jam session. Meets the first Thursday of the month. 6:30-9 p.m.
Doc Able Pavilion, 116 W. Waterford St. Free Admission, free will offering (574) 862-2200 wakarusabluegrassjam.com.
FEB. 7 | NAPPANEE FIRST EVER CHOCOLATE WALK
Walk starts with picking up a passport at the Nappanee Chamber, 302 W. Market St.
Stroll through town sampling chocolate treats from local spots. Admission fee.
For more information call (574) 7737812.
FEB. 7-8 | SOUTH BEND FOR THE LOVE OF ART FAIR
Featuring 50 artists with a variety of mediums
South Bend Century Center 120 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10.
FEB. 13-14 | SHIPSHEWANA MIDWEST HOME AND YARD SHOW
Michiana Event Center 455 E. Farver St.
Show hours: 1-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. Admission: $5
FEB. 14 | ELKHART 17TH ANNUAL FROSTY FIVE RUN
Studebaker Park, 1004 McDonald St.
Race options are a 5K or 5 miles. Packet pickup 4-6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13 at Studebaker Pavilion or 8:30-9 a.m. race day.
To register or for more information visit runsignup.com/Race/IN/Elkhart/ Frosty5KRun.
FEB. 18 | CROMWELL FOOD FOR ALL PEOPLE
Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church 11 W. Orange St.
Join Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church for a homemade meal starting at 5 p.m. Menu to be determined.
For more information call (260) 856-2610 or email calvarycromwell@centurylink.net.
FEB. 20-22 | ELKHART BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF ELKHART COUNTY HOME & OUTDOOR EXPO
Northern Indiana Event Center 21565 Executive Pkwy.
Show hours: Noon-6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 Free admission.
FEB. 21 | WARSAW SPECIAL OLYMPICS POLAR PLUNGE
Registration 10:30-11:30 a.m. Plunge at noon.
Center Lake, 119 E. Canal St.
Sign up to plunge at support.soindiana.org/2026WarsawPolarPlunge.
FEB. 28 | WINONA LAKE WINE ABOUT WINTER
2-6 p.m.
An afternoon and evening of wine tasting.
Tickets and check-in available only at Port Winona, 807 E. Canal St. on the day of the event.
Must be 21 to participate.
For more information call (574) 400-5224. n
By BethAnne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
“For almost 60 years, the Builders Association of Elkhart County has grown along with the population of northern Indiana and southern Michigan. Many things change over time, but one thing that has stayed the same is our connection to local, dependable and reliable contractors. We saw the need for connecting the Michiana community to great contractors. As a result, we started the BAEC Home & Outdoor Expo about 20 years ago with a handful of contractors, and invited everyone to visit and talk, one-on-one, with prospective contractors. Homeowners can interview contractors, see which ones are the better fit for a wide variety of projects.”
Welker is the 2026 Expo chairperson. What does that entail?
“Well, our commitment to showcasing reliable contractors has continued. And a cou ple of things have developed and Outdoor Expo over the last 20 years. This year, for the first time ever, we are giving away $10,000. Isn’t that incredible!? We have a free bingo card given to each adult when they arrive. The $10,000 can be spent with any of the participating Bingo sponsors. Best of all, it’s free. We have free admission, free parking, free bingo cards for a chance to win $10,000. What’s not to like?”
continues to grow after two decades
And what else can attendees look forward to? Welker was quick to answer.
“Oh, and did I mention that Frankie’s Tacos will be serving lunch and supper? What could possibly be better than tacos, and figuring out home improvement projects on a February weekend? Homeowners are going to get a head start on this year’s to-do list around the home, inside and out. Painting, fences, garage organization, glass doors, furnace work, car care, windows, landscaping, pools, patios, pergolas and so much more!”
If it’s something you’ve been thinking about, you’re bound to find inspiration here.
And “You’ve got free parking and free admission; we try to make accessibility easy for
mend stopping by the food truck first, and then enjoying the expo.”
That sounds like a perfect plan. So after the tacos?
“My favorite part and involvement has been growing the expo. As we’ve been able to include more contractors that are dependable and reliable, we can create better introductions for the community. I really believe this is the area‘s best show for connecting with great contractors in all of Michiana. And that’s what drives us to keep our standards high,” Welker explained.
“We have a wide variety of homeowners that visit the expo. Some have completed past projects; some are brand new homeowners that are just looking to get started.
contractors. Some homeowners feel more comfortable, just sitting back and observing, and that’s just fine as well.”
Welker explained further, “We recommend homeowners set aside 30 to 90 minutes to walk through the exhibit hall. Oftentimes, we see homeowners connecting, and meeting contractors they hadn’t known before, spending longer time chatting and developing relationships.”
One last thought?
“Like I said it’s warm, there are tacos, why not play some bingo while you’re at it and win $10,000? It’s a great laid-back weekend.” You have several days to choose from; the show runs Feb. 20-22, opening at noon on Friday. See you there! n
BOOTH 512
2026 BAEC Home & Outdoor Expo Vendors
COMPANY BOOTH #
4 T Door Systems Inc 406,408
A-1 Concrete Leveling 21
A&R Wastewater Management 220
Ace Concrete Coatings 221
Advanced Solar 2
Affordable Remodelers 22
AIM Water Treatment 507
All American Gutter Protection 617
Alpha Building Center 4,5
American Sunspace Inc. 421,520
Bail Home Services & Construction Inc. 313,412
Bath Experts 614
Bath Planet 25
Bee Window 706
Budget Blinds 116, 118
COMPANY BOOTH #
Centurion Exteriors Stronghouse 606
Champion Home Exteriors 311
Classee Vinyl Windows 215,217
Closet Craft 120
Concrete Borders 613,712
Cressy & Everett Real Estate 410 Cutco 720
Dave’s Lawnscaping
515,517,519
Dennison Roofing & Gutter Toppers 509
Dogwood Hills Tree Farm 309
Doncaster Flooring & Design 115
Doors & Drawers 415 Elite Curbing 407,409
COMPANY BOOTH #
Energy Efficient Replacements 506
Equity Roofing Inc. 417
Estate By Lippert Components 219
Everwise Credit Union 307
Evolve Chiropractic 315
Exclusive Exteriors 3
Exterior Arts LLC 212
Five Star Painting 310,314,316,318
Floor Coverings International 611,710
Fruit Hills Winery 218
Garage Force of Michiana 216
Glass Doctor of Elkhart & St. Joseph Counties
211
Glen’s Diamond Tile 812
Great Lakes Pleasure Pools 616
COMPANY
BOOTH #
H&H Custom Made Vinyl Fence Co.
501,503,505,600,602,604
H&H Power Wash 708
Hawkins Water Tech Inc 23,24
Heartland Polymer Cabinets 319,321,418,420
Hill Custom Concrete 119
Home Pro Windows, Roofing, Siding & Doors 317
Hoosier House Furnishings 19,20
Horizon Windows and Doors, Inc. 114
Horner Roofing and Siding LLC 618
Indiana Whiskey 26 Innovative Spaces
301,303,305,400,402,404
Kountry Cabinets 511,610
COMPANY
BOOTH #
Kuert Outdoor Living 9,10
LaSalle Bristol Flooring Center 707,709
LeafFilter Gutter Protection 413
Leatherman Supply 6
Legacy Heating and Air, Inc. 121
M-Line Electric 113
Mike’s Fencing 117
Monteith’s Best One Tire & Auto Care 721
Mosquito Joe of South Bend 306
Mr Handyman of Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties 207
Midwest Home and Yard Show back once again for another great year
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
Looking for some updates for your home or yard this spring? This February marks the 16th annual Midwest Home and Yard Show since its first show in 2011. There will be 120 local vendors available at the Michiana Event Center, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana, for two days to answer questions and highlight all the items and services that are offered. The show is from 1-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. With so many local, quality vendors in one place, it is the perfect opportunity to get inspiration, ask questions or find what you’re looking for, whether moving or simply upgrading your home.
No matter the need, there is likely to be a vendor for it at the show. There are vendors who specialize in: roofing, windows, siding, decks, concrete, flooring, insulation, doors, decks, porches, patios, sunrooms, landscaping, fencing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, skylights, outdoor kitchens, water features, solar panels, garage doors and custom building. Custom building can include both inside and outside the home, from shops and sheds to cabinets, bookshelves, living room storage, benches, wine racks and built-in shelving. “Many vendors love being a part of the show and have been a part of it since the beginning,” SuEllen Yoder, Black Anvil Creative and who is in charge of marketing for the show, shared. “This is where they work and live and where their customers are at.” With the large Amish population in Shipshewana, typically 50% to 60% of the vendors are Amish. However, there are new vendors each year as well, with some coming from as far as Kalamazoo, Mich., Fort Wayne and South Bend.
The show is not just about the necessities of a home. There are also vendors with grills, mowers, bicycles, wall art, pottery and accessories to help spruce up a home and make it yours. “It’s not as big as the Fort Wayne show, but that also helps it feel more comfortable and less overwhelming,” Yoder described. “It’s one of my favorites because it feels like a family.
You walk in and people are just there to help and share what they do and what they know.” The fact many of the vendors have been in business 30 years or more is also a draw. Vendors are known and used locally with high reviews and ratings. “There are so many vendors that do really good work and they are here year after year. There is a consistency of quality vendors.”
A huge draw for those who come to the show are the giveaways. There are a variety of items given away worth $20,000 total and winning names are drawn at the end of the show. This year Aqua Water Systems is also giving away a water system. An additional attraction is a large playset from Pumpkin Patch set up each year for children to enjoy along with some coffee and snack vendors for those attending the show.
A variety of sponsors help to make this show a reality each year. Platinum sponsors include: Alpha Building Center, Otto Stove and Fireplace, Superior Borders Concrete Curbing, Heartland Polymer Cabinets, Middly Sales, Otto’s Bicycle Repairs and Water Shop and Aqua Otter Water Systems. Gold sponsors for the event include: Precision Tree Removal, Spring Green, Alco Overhead Doors, Four Woods Shades and Blinds, Tension Tamer, B&W Lawn Care, Homestead Lights, A-1 Concrete Leveling, ProTech Water, Excel Coatings and Wakarusa Ag Services. n
BOOTH 23 BOOTH 24
LOCAL PHYSICIAN HONORED by IU School of Medicine
Dr. Gerald W. Morris, a wellknown and beloved community member, received the 2025 Outstanding Physician Award from the IU School of Medicine in December. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan and Indiana made the announcement at their annual Medicine Ball fundraiser in October.
By BethAnne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
It would take multiple pages to cover all Morris has achieved academically and professionally and this award was obviously and thoughtfully well-chosen. “I am a member of the Pokagon Band, and I have been connected to our tribal community as long as I can remember. From the time I enrolled in undergraduate studies, I knew that working for my tribe was where I ultimately hoped to land. This work is personal to me – not only as a physician, but as a community member,” said Morris.
But, Dr. Morris explained, “I didn’t take a straight path to medicine. During my senior year of high school, I initially decided not to go to college and instead pursued certification in pedorthics, where I made custom foot orthotics for patients. Working directly with people and hearing their stories was formative – it showed me how meaningful healthcare could be and sparked
a deeper desire to develop the skills needed to help others in a more comprehensive way. This led to me spontaneously enrolling in college. I knew from day one that primary care was where my values and strengths aligned – growing up, I had seen firsthand how healthcare delivery and access could function as both a bridge and a barrier, and my life’s work has centered on strengthening that bridge.”
When asked more about his personal life, Morris answered exactly as you would expect. “My life is grounded in medicine, family, and community. I was born and raised in the South Bend-Mishawaka area and have spent my entire life here, which has deeply shaped my ongoing commitment to serving this community. My wife and I have been together since our senior year of high school, and we have three children, now aged 25, 21, and 15.”
“As a family, we enjoy spending time together exploring state and national parks and making trips to Walt Disney World. Outside of my immediate family, I remain connected to the broader tribal community, participating in events whenever possible.” And outside of these? He replied, “In my time outside of work, I enjoy studying history. I believe it helps us honor the efforts of those who came before us while also giving us the perspective and foundation needed to build thoughtfully for the future.”
“...this work is rooted in service, collaboration and collective resilience.”
“One of the greatest surprises has been how fulfilling teaching has been. Working with medical students and residents has become a core part of my professional identity; it feels like a natural extension of my clinical work and a way to amplify my impact. At the same time, teaching is
very much a two-way process –students continually challenge me to reflect, stay curious and approach my work with humility, which ultimately makes me a better physician,” Morris mused. He added, “The hardest period of my career was during the first year of COVID. There was significant uncertainty, but what stood out most was how our tribal community and teams came together. I gained a deep appreciation for what each person brought to the table – clinical staff, support staff, leadership, patients and community members – all contributing in essential ways. That shared effort and mutual respect carried us through and reinforced for me that this work is rooted in service, collaboration and collective resilience.”
Congratulations, Dr. Morris! The community, and your tribe, are blessed. n
Dr. Morris, center, with Elders Representative John Warren (left) and Tribal Council Chairman Matthew Wesaw (right) and their spouses. Photo provided.
King’s Escape Rooms (574) 387-5799 South Shore Social (574) 475-8733
BAEC Office (574) 293-0997 Stone Ridge Landscaping (574) 534-9800 or info@stoneridge.tv Branch Out: Learn A New Craft
Rupel Toy Trains and Games (574) 875-8008 Camp Mack (574) 658-4831
Cafe Navarre info@cafenavarre.co (574) 968-8101 Cascade cascadesouthbend.com (574) 387-4358 Bourbon & Butcher bourbonandbutcher.com (574) 217-7584 Oliver Inn Bed & Breakfast oliverinn.com (574) 232-4545
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
BRANCH OUT
Learn a new craft
Interested in trying out a new hobby or finding others interested in your hobby? The colder, winter months make finding an indoor activity or hobby a necessity. Taking up a new hobby or finding people to share a hobby with can also be a great way to chase away the winter blues. When it comes to the search, local libraries are a great place to start.
Local libraries have a variety of events and clubs where people can share their interests. Elkhart County libraries have clubs for cooking and coloring to de-stress and share recipes as well as events to learn to cook a specific recipe, book clubs to discuss a book of the month, typically in varying genres, and coffee and canvas events to share painting and coffee with others. There are also clubs or events to learn different crafts or crafting techniques or learn knitting or crocheting or opportunities to bring your latest project. Multiple branches offer a chance to join these hobbies on different dates or times.
gardening and cooking. There is also a book club, yo-yo club and beginning knitting club. The North Webster Public Library has a yarn club, a citizen science club, which explores science in the world around us, a coloring club and a beginner tech club. There are also special nights for games, such as euchre and Jeopardy, or classes offered to learn a craft or cooking.
St. Joseph County libraries offer a wide assortment of activities to choose from and clubs to join. There are multiple events focusing on learning a new skill or enjoying a night out. There are craft and painting events for adults, children and whole families. There are events to learn specific recipes or cooking skills or share soup and sew. Trivia nights and bingo nights also bring the community together to share a game. A variety of clubs also bring together those with common interests including a book club, improv club, euchre club, cribbage club, quilting club, crochet and knit or other fiber art club, French language club and even a club to promote and support positive change and growth.
Libraries in Kosciusko County also have unique clubs and hobbies to consider. Various libraries have genealogy clubs and writing clubs. The Syracuse Public Library has a children’s art club and Pokemon club as well as a weird history club and anime club for older tweens and teens. There are specific days and times to enjoy a game of chess or Mahjong as well as a specific Cabin Fever Beater during the months of January and February with board games, crafts, puzzles and more to share. The Warsaw Public Library has different event nights for arts and crafts, bingo, tea and canvas, chair yoga,
Rupel Toy Trains and Games in Elkhart has a large selection for model train enthusiasts. There is also a good selection of card games and board games to share with family and friends or meet others with a shared interest.
Getaway days or weekends at Camp Mack in Milford offer a great way to take time away to focus on your craft or learn a new craft. This year there will be quilt retreats on Feb. 19-22, April 15-19 and Oct. 14-18, and scrap and craft retreats on Feb. 26 to March 1 and Oct. 29 to Nov. 1. For those who can’t get away for an entire weekend, there are also getaway days. The scrap and craft getaway day is Feb. 28 and Oct. 31; the knit and crochet getaway day is Feb. 28 and Oct. 31; and the wreaths and swags getaway day is Dec. 5.
Whether looking to find a new hobby or share your interest or hobby with others, there are plenty of options throughout the area to hone a skill and spend time with others. n
Did You Know?
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
February is the shortest month of the year, even on leap years. It typically has 28 days, but has 29 days every four years. The next leap year will be in 2028.
The chance of being born on a leap day is
February was officially named Black History Month in 1976 by President Gerald R. Ford. However, it began in 1926 as Negro History Week by African American leaders to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
In February 1964, the Beatles made their first American television appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” There were over 73 million Americans tuned in to watch them on the show.
One of the most well-known holidays celebrated in February is Valentine’s Day. It originates from the Roman fertility festival for both humans and agriculture. However, the Roman Catholic Church celebrates it in honor of St. Valentine, who was martyred in February. A more romantic view was taken during the Middle Ages with the works of Chaucer and Shakespeare. It has since become one of the most commercialized holidays with Americans spending more than $27 billion each year.
February was the last month added to the Roman calendar and originally the last month in the year. It was named after a Roman festival of purification. It was moved as the second month in the year when Julius Caesar adjusted the months to better align with the Earth’s orbit and created the Julian calendar.
The second Sunday of the month is Super Bowl Sunday for football fans. This changed in 2022 from the first Sunday in February. Prior to 2004, the Super Bowl was held in mid- or late January.
1 in 1,461.
Feb. 17 begins the celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year. This is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture. This year is the year of the horse.
On Feb. 6, 1895, George Herman “Babe” Ruth was born in Maryland. He held or shared 60 Major League records including hitting 714 home runs and pitching 29 consecutive scoreless innings.
Groundhog Day, which falls on Feb. 2, is a tradition to determine when winter will end. The most famous groundhog is Punxsutawney Phil. If he sees his shadow, it means winter will last six more weeks. If he does not see his shadow, an early spring is expected. The tradition stems from a German superstition using a badger instead of a groundhog.
In February 1848, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published “The Communist Manifesto,” which encouraged workers to own all production, land and factories and the abolition of private property.
In February 1962, John Glenn be came the first American launched into orbit. He traveled aboard the Friendship 7 spacecraft and, during his flight, completed three orbits in just under five hours. He was the third American in space. n
... and now you know!
The Book Nook
Want to suggest a book? Send the title, author, a brief synopsis of the book and why you liked it to lzeugner@the-papers.com.
OUT OF AFRICA by
Isak Dinesen
This book recounts the 18 years the author lived in Kenya. While not free of racial bias or colonial attitudes of the time (the book was written in 1937), the book transports the reader to a time of lion hunts. While I didn’t see the movie, I enjoyed the book.
What better way to spend a cold dreary afternoon or evening than curled up with a good book. Be sure to visit your public library or favorite book store for these and other great books. Here are six of my recommendations.
—
Lauren
THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING
by J.R.R. Tolkien
I was first introduced to Tolkien in sixth grade when my teacher read The Hobbit to the class. This continues Frodo Baggins adventure. What better way to escape a cold snowy day or night than to visit Middle Earth?
DUNE by
Frank Herbert
My mom suggested I read this before seeing the first movie that came out. I never did see the first movie or the latest movie version, but I did love the book. While not the biggest fan of Science Fiction, I quickly found myself caught up in the adventure.
WHERE THE SIDEWALK ENDS by
Shel Silverstein
I was first introduced to Silverstein through “The Giving Tree.” Poetry is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. What better way to reintroduce your self than with this fun book?
ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
I was assigned to read this in college while taking a media class. It reads like a thriller. If you love politics, history or good journalism, this is a great book.
AND THEN THERE WERE NONE by
Agatha Christie
As someone who loves Christie’s Poirot and Miss Marple, as well as a good mystery, I had to include this one as well. Ten Strangers are invited to a remote mansion on a desolate island, only to be accused of murder. n
Chili Cook-off Recipe
By Wawasee High School Culinary Level 2 Group
INGREDIENTS:
q 1 lb Ground Beef
q 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
q 2 Celery Stalks, small diced
q 2 Bell Peppers (1 Red and 1 Green), small diced
q 1/2 Yellow Onion, small diced
q 1 Jalapeno, small diced
q 14 oz Tomato Sauce
q 1 Can Diced Tomato (14.5 oz)
q 2 Cans Hot Chili Beans
q 14 oz Beef Stock
q 2 tsp Cocoa Powder
q 1.5 tbsp Brown Sugar
q 4 tbsp Chili Powder
q 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
q 2 tbsp Cumin
q 1.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper
q Salt and Pepper, to taste
INGREDIENTS:
q 1 cup all-purpose flour
q 1 cup cornmeal
q 1/4 cup white sugar
DIRECTIONS:
In a dutch oven over medium heat, brown ground beef. Saute onion, garlic, celery and bell pepper. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until soft and onions are translucent. Add jalapeno and cook approximately 2 minutes more.
q 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
q 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
q 1/2 teaspoon salt
q 1 egg, lightly beaten
q 1 cup sour cream
q 1/3 cup milk
q 1/4 cup butter, melted
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
Combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Mix egg, sour cream, milk, and butter in a small bowl. Fold egg mixture into flour mixture until just moistened; pour into prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm. n
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili beans, beef stock, cocoa powder, brown sugar and all of the above spices.
Lower heat and simmer for approximately 1 hour, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. n
