#158: Colfax Cultural Center

The Colfax Cultural Center is many things. A dance studio. A meeting center. A worship center for several different faiths. An office for several different non-profits.  An art gallery.  Yet, perhaps its most unique function is as an example of just how radically a space can be transformed and utilized in different ways. What is now the Cultural Center was once the Colfax School. In 1983, the South Bend Heritage Foundation began a revitalization and restoration of the old Victorian schoolhouse into the facility it is today which promotes the "spirit and creative life of the neighborhood". For even more information on the history of the building, visit the website here.

I had never been to the Center and stopped in today for the first time. I had passed the imposing building several times whenever driving down Lincolnway West, but was drawn to stop in today because of the particular exhibit on display in the gallery. In a nod to the building's former incarnation as a school, the current exhibit features the work of South Bend students from every Intermediate school in the city.

A small sample of the work on display

The first thing you notice when walking into the Gallery is the abundance of color. Today it seemed to reflect the sunniness of the day in general, but I think the vibrancy of the student artwork would hold up on any day. I was reminded of my own junior-high art projects (and how they would pale in comparison) as I wandered through the rooms. The students, all impressively talented, used a variety of materials to create sculptures, artistic reflections on President Obama, replications and explorations of Van Gogh's sunflowers, cloth-based weavings, and much more. Exhibits rotate pretty frequently, and this one is only on display until April 14th. The visit certainly brightened my day, and I'm sure it would do yours as well if you took the time to stop by.

Location: 914 Lincoln Way West
Hours: 9:00am-7:00pm, every day (I think)

For more information on the South Bend Heritage Foundation (and all of the great work they do), visit the website here.

#157: Mayoral Candidate Forum

It may be hard to believe, but the political cycle is back in full-swing. The primary election day is May 3, a mere 35 days away. This particular election cycle is an important one for South Bend as the city will choose a new mayor. We've previously exhorted you to vote, and the reason for doing so still holds true. Of all the things you can do in South Bend (and particularly if you're invested in the ongoing thriving-or-dying debate), participating civically can be one of the most fulfilling and effective.

As a precursor to the primaries and the entire campaign season, the Chamber of Commerce, the Young Professionals Network, WSBT, and the South Bend Tribune are hosting a Mayoral Candidates Forum tonight at the Century Center. They have described the event as a "job interview for candidates" and it provides a great opportunity for any South Bend resident to learn more about all of their potential mayors. Before you vote, take the time to get all of the information and help the candidates to figure out how to best lead the South Bend of the future.

Where: Bendix Theater, Century Center
When: 6:30pm-9:00pm
No registration required!

#156: Mikado

I cannot claim to be a sushi expert, but I do enjoy the occasional foray into Japanese cuisine and Mikado provides one of the area's most accessible ways to do so. Located just several miles up US31 into Roseland, Mikado offers a variety of sushi options so that anyone, from a sushi beginner to expert, can find something to like. When in doubt, try the well-liked California roll containing crab, avocado, and cucumber.

In addition to sushi, Mikado offers a wide selection of other Japanese dishes as well as several Chinese and Thai offerings. Be forewarned, the portions are large! The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable in a small one-room dining space, and the owners and servers are friendly.  Even better, the prices are incredibly reasonable and make this the perfect location to try sushi for the first time or grab it to go for the hundredth.

Click here for a map.

For more info and and questions call 574-272-2535.

#155: "My Brightest Diamond" at Subkirke Venue

Guys, I'm really excited about this. I just found out about this live music venue in South Bend yesterday and couldn't wait to share, particularly because of the artist they're hosting tonight. From what I understand, Subkirke Venue hosts a variety of mostly independent and local performers in the sanctuary of an actual church (the South Bend Christian Reformed Church). That would be pretty cool on its own, but combined with the actual quality of the performers they host, I'm already prepared for Subkirke to become my new favorite "thing to do in South Bend".

The view from the audience

You see, I really like the performer that is featured tonight. Shara Worden, stage name, My Brightest Diamond, is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter (and multi-instrumentalist) with a sound that veers between opera and folk (sample here). She's played with Sufjan Stevens, the National and David Byrne. Even if none of those names ring any bells, I would still encourage you to check her out because of her incredible talent, manifested in her live show. Hopefully you can tell that I'm a huge fan, but, even more, I'm a huge fan of the increasingly vibrant music scene here in South Bend and hope you'll come out with me to support it.

Where: Subkirke Venue, 1855 North Hickory Road (near the Cinemark). More info on the location can be found here.
When: 8:30pm, doors open at 7:30pm
Price: $10 at the door
Tip: Get there in time for the local opener, Rendition!

For upcoming shows (the next one also looks fantastic) and more info, check out their website here. I'll be updating this post with more info (and pictures!) after tonight.

#154: Studebaker National Museum

Tonight at Notre Dame's DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, they are showing what promises to be a fascinating film on the history of the Studebaker family and automobile industry in South Bend. Unfortunately, it's already sold out. Lesson learned: buy tickets to your cinematic experiences of local history early.

But never fear, if you're going to be missing out (like I am), take the alternate (or detour...) route to learning about one of the most important parts of South Bend history. Visit the Studebaker National Museum! The museum is located on a joint museum campus with the Center for History near downtown and maintains ongoing exhibitions as well as special exhibits and events throughout the year. The current special exhibits include a feature on the project to design a 21st century Studebaker (visitor input welcome!) and a collection of famous cars from the silver screen. Herbie the Love Bug? We've got it here in South Bend as well as cars driven by Elvis Presley and Elton John.  One of the ongoing exhibitions is just as cool: a display of presidential carriages, including Abraham Lincoln's.

In sunnier weather...

The Studebaker's (family and company) truly formed an integral part of South Bend's history and their influence can be seen all over the city. Take an afternoon and learn about what these cars meant, not only for South Bend, but, really, for American industry at large.

Location: 201 South Chapin Street
Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm    Mon-Sat     12:00pm-5:00pm   Sun
Website: Click here!
Fun fact: Did you know that the Studebaker's sponsored the television series Mr. Ed?

#153: Pedro's Family Restaurant

If you're looking for a casual place to eat downtown, but you can't decide what kind of food you'd like, then I have your answer. Go to Pedro's. The newly-opened downtown restaurant on Main Street serves a wide variety of foods ranging from Italian cuisine to American to their signature Mexican dishes (I've had a very good and very large burrito). Their variety even extends to breakfast fare. Because of the sheer variety and convenient location the spot has already become a go-to place for those who work in the downtown area.

If you visit Pedro's and think you recognize some of the aforementioned food options, that's because you probably do. While the space and name are new, the owners (and most of the menu) are not, having transferred their talents from the much-loved Cedar House restaurant. When Pedro's opened, the South Bend Tribune did a nice feature on the chef/owners of both restaurants, so for more information, click here. The restaurant is truly a welcome addition to the downtown area, and all I need now is just some help deciding what to order.

Location: 110 N. Main Street
Hours: 6:00am-10:00pm   Mon-Sat     6:00am-3:00pm   Sun
Call: 574-246-0769

#152: Downtown Yoga at Dhanwantari Center

aaauuummmm (inhale) aaauuummmmm (inhale) aaauuummmmm.

Although I have taken yoga classes in a half dozen studios, I have to confess that never before had I actually articulated that core chant of this exercise...until I went to Dhanwantari Center in South Bend.

This studio is named after the Father of Ayurvedi Surgery and true its name, the mission of the center advocates the healing power that yoga can have.   Dhanwantari offers special classes for women over 50, Yin/Yang Yoga, and Yoga Nidra, in addition to Vinyasa and introductory courses.  (See class descriptions here.)  The 'om' mantra repeated at the beginning and end of each class is no gimmick; rather, it is oriented to the union  of the mind, body and spirit.

Dhanvantari

The Center is located two blocks from downtown, in the basement of historic Remedy building.  The room is very small -- with only five students in my Vinyasa class, we filled the space -- but cozy.  Even in the first class there, I felt very comfortable, and the low teacher-student also added to its welcoming feel.

The Remedy Building, Dhanwantari's home since summer 2010

Where: 402 W. Washington St.  (Enter through the front door and follow the signs to class.)
When: Check here for the Spring 2011 class schedule.
Call: 574.360.4090
Tip: Their introductory pass (3 classes at $7 each) is a great way to get feel for the studio, but they are currently offering spring specials on other classes.
Also cool:  They do Candlelight Yoga on Friday nights, and for April's First Friday, they will be have a didgeridoo player playing for a special candlelit 10 pm class.  To shake up your typical Friday night.

#151: La Central Panaderia

On the way back from Sugar Camp Days (go for the pancakes, stay for the atmosphere), my friend and I happened upon this small bakery on Western. We had debated stopping (we were busy, had work to do, etc.) but were both extremely glad that we did as soon as we parked and entered the store.

The walls were lined from top to bottom with fresh-baked pastries of every kind. I pride myself on being something of a baker, but I could not begin to name the variety of baked goods available. Most seemed to be sweet pastries, but I noticed some flat breads and buns available as well. One of the women working at the shop brought out a fresh tray of pan dulce, a type of Mexican sweet roll, while we were browsing and generously allowed us a free sample. She also generously answered all of our questions and we discovered that the bakery has been in existence for more than 15 years.

Purchased items

Choosing just several items of the great variety available was particularly difficult, not least because of the incredibly affordable price. Most individual pastries cost between 50 and 60 cents. I left with a jelly-filled turnover and a concha, another Mexican sweet bread that the woman had recommended. Beyond these individual pastries, the store also offers catering services and custom cakes. Not only were we glad we stopped, but the discovery made an already pleasant, sunny Saturday just that much better. 

Bonus: There's even a mural!

Location: 3021 W. Western Ave.

Hours: Not quite sure, but open all 7 days of the week

Telephone: 574-289-2550

#150: Sugar Camp Days

As much as yesterday may have suggested, it's not quite spring here in South Bend.  It's on its way, however, and Sugar Camp Days at Bendix Woods County Park remind us that the end of winter is approaching.  This annual end-of-March event celebrates the tapping of maple trees and the syrup that's made from them. 

Fresh kettle corn

 Take a road trip out to New Carlisle to take part of the many festivities happening this weekend.

Take a free wagon ride!

There are carriage rides, old-time syrup cooking demonstrations (which smells wonderful!), ice- and wood-carving, a blacksmith, and my favorite activity, an all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast that features the star product, the delicious maple syrup.  On Sunday, the Deep Fried Pickle Project (not a food related activity, surprisingly) performs folk classics using traditional instruments.

Trust me, the wait is worth it.  Second helpings are welcome --  just flag down one of the volunteers from the New Prairie baseball team to reload on pancakes or sausages.

 

Where: Bendix Woods County Park
When: Saturday and Sunday, 8am - 3pm
Cost: $7/vehicle
Website: http://www.sjcparks.org/calendar.html#SCD
Tip: Dress warmly (you'll be standing around outside a lot) and give yourself an extra hour or so to burn off the sugar rush exploring this 27-acre gorgeous woodland.  It features the second-highest point in Indiana!  
Inane info: The optimal time to tap trees for syrup is at this time of year when daily temperatures are above freezing but the low temps dip below.

#149: Ragtime at the South Bend Civic

Happy St. Patrick's Day South Bend! Hopefully you've already gotten your corned beef and cabbage, but if you're still looking for something to do, head over to Fiddler's for live Irish music and dancing until 1:00am!

Amidst all of the St. Paddy's Day-themed events of the past several weeks, the South Bend Civic Theater has staged a musical identified in the New York Times as a "spectacular feast for the eyes." This musical, Ragtime, captures the lives of three separate families at the turn-of-the-century and uses the music of the changing era (and its title) to bring them all together. If you're not sure what ragtime sounds like, click over here for a listen.

The musical is known in theater circles as a large-scale and daunting production with many moving pieces, characters, and sets. It premiered on Broadway on 1998 and won several Tony Awards that year as well.  I'm excited to see what the South Bend Civic and a cast of local performers can do with such a acclaimed piece of musical theater. If you're curious as well, the show runs through the 27th of this month.

For more information and to order tickets, go the the South Bend Civic's website.

If you'd like a preview of the show, check out this video from the original Broadway production.