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- 2.20.2025
2.20.2025
Happy 120 days until it’s official SUMMER, Michiana Memo Members! We’re kind of over this whole snow thing.
You know that river in downtown South Bend? The East Race kind of has a tumultuous history.
The East Race Waterway was constructed as a man-made canal to harness the power of the St. Joseph River for local industries. During South Bend’s industrial boom, companies like Studebaker and Oliver Chilled Plow Works relied on water-powered mills and factories. The canal played a vital role in the city’s economic growth, supporting manufacturing and infrastructure development.
However, as industries modernized and transitioned to electricity, the need for water-powered energy declined. By the mid-20th century, many factories closed or relocated, leaving the East Race without a purpose.
As South Bend’s economy shifted away from manufacturing, the East Race became obsolete. Without maintenance, the canal deteriorated, collecting debris and becoming an eyesore. The surrounding area suffered from economic decline, reflecting the broader struggles of post-industrial Midwestern cities.
For decades, the East Race remained abandoned, a relic of South Bend’s past with no clear future.
In the 1980s, city officials saw potential in transforming the neglected waterway into a recreational asset. South Bend undertook an ambitious project to convert the canal into North America’s first artificial whitewater rafting course. Engineers adjusted the water flow to create rapids suitable for kayaking and rafting, attracting adventure-seekers and revitalizing the downtown area.
So…welcome to the EIGHTH edition of Michiana Memo AND a big thank you for continuing to read!
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Weather Forecast: Friday-Friday
Event Calendar:
FEBRUARY 20: Line Dancing at Bar Louie in Granger, IN at 7 PM ($5/person) - Enjoy of fun-filled evening of line dancing and fantastic music, kicking off at 7pm in our upstairs event space! Entry is just $5 at the door. Be sure to don your finest western wear!
FEBRUARY 21: Drive-Thru Fish Fry in Mishawaka, IN at 4 PM-7 PM ($15/plate) - Skip the fast food and get a home-cooked fish fry from the Chicory Cafe. Fish (or shrimp), fries, coleslaw, and tarter sauce all for $15/meal. No need to pre-register, just pull up and place your order from your cozy car.
FEBRUARY 21: Friday Night Bingo in Elkhart, IN at 6 PM-9 PM ($17/for 18 games) - $17 packets for 12 Regular Games, 4 Speed Games, and 2 Specials. Payouts determined by attendance.
FEBRUARY 21/22: Mother-Son/Father-Daughter Dance in Mishawaka, IN on Friday & Saturday 7 PM-9 PM ($45/”couple”) - Step into a tropical paradise adorned with festive decorations that transport you to a sun-soaked luau. Capture the magic at our photo booth, complete with tropical props, and dance the night away! Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your special bond while creating lasting memories. REGISTER HERE.
FEBRUARY 22: Hat Burning Workshop in Bridgman, MI on Saturday 1 PM-4 PM ($70/person) - Join us at Owen Sisters & Co. for a fun and creative event where you can learn how to design and decorate your own hat. Let your imagination run wild as you personalize your hat with various materials and colors. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to add a unique touch to their wardrobe. REGISTER HERE.
FEBRUARY 22: Girl Gang Galentine’s Party in South Bend, IN on Saturday 5 PM-8 PM ($30/person) - This event celebrates women and our journey thrugh self love. Grab your best girlfriends and join us for an evening of games, laughter, self love, and sisterhood. REGISTER HERE.
FEBRUARY 23: Doormat Making Class in Granger, IN at 2 PM ($38) - Join us at Restyled Furnishings on Saturday, February 23rd at 2:00 PM for our Doormat Painting Class! 🎨 Get ready for spring by painting your own strawberry and flower-themed doormat, perfect for adding a fresh and cheerful touch to your entryway. 🌿✨REGISTER HERE.
FEBRUARY 27: Women Let's Meetup Entrepreneurial Charcuterie and Chats in Mishawaka, IN at 6 PM ($15/person) - This in-person event is designed for female entrepreneurs to share experiences, swap insights, and build a supportive community. Let's inspire and empower each other as we navigate the world of entrepreneurship together. Come, join the chats and let's create something amazing! REGISTER HERE.
Foodie Recs
Take a breather this weekend ad and enjoy our top picks. You bring the drinks, we’ve got the links.
Drift on Pine: This restaurant in Laporte, IN has it all - a lake-view, rooftop bar and a FIRE menu. Starting off strong with house-made fondue, Bavarian pretzels and crab Rangoon dip as appetizers - they have a great entree menu AND serve weekend brunch.
Brookie’s Cafe: Brookie’s is located in Dowagiac, MI - we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s 100% on our short list to give a go. They have a solid breakfast/lunch list - breakfast, :salads, skillets, french toast, truly something for everyone.
BFF Bakery: This new South Bend bakery took over the old Sway Coffee shop and is open Thursdays and Saturdays. You can see their menu on their Instagram HERE.
Dream Of The Week: This cabin on 6 acres has some nice upgrades and GREAT outdoor entertaining spaces - maybe a little overpriced?
Steal Of The Week: This is giving sunny studio energy - super cozy vibes!
✨Do you have a unique suggestion or event that you would like to have featured on Michiana Memo? Submit your idea HERE. ✨
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