Sunday, October 31, 2010

Midwest Coffee Roasting Company - TONIGHT - Open House (Oct. 31)

Hey all - sorry I'm just posting this, but I just found out!  See below - I think I'll stop over there myself in a bit. 

We are opening the doors tonight to Trick or Treat parents. We will be serving coffee, no costumes required. Please join us, the coffee is on us.

If you haven’t heard the news, we are moving the roasterie and opening a coffeehouse. Tonight will be the first event at the coffeehouse.  Everyone is invited to come and have a cup of coffee and see the renovations at the new coffeehouse. Hope to see you tonight.

Trick or Treat Coffee
Tonight, Sunday, October 31
5-8 pm. @ 1321 W. Spencer Ave., Marion

Shari & Reid Boultbee

MCRC logo
Midwest Coffee Roasting Company
(Midwest Organic Coffee Company)
Reid & Shari Boultbee
1105 W. 51st Street
Marion, IN  46953
765-674-7226
cid:image002.png@01CB041F.403FEE60

Recycling in Marion & Grant County

Okay Jaena, here it is!

Recently I was with a bunch of girlfriends and we were talking about recycling in the area and how to go about doing it.  I made some calls to make sure I have all the correct info for Marion before posting this.

Not sure what all the hub-bub is about recycling?  I highly recommend the book Serve God, Save the Planet: A Christian Call to Action.  The author, Matthew Sleeth, made me realize taking care of the planet is not just a good thing to do, but a commandment in that is it all about loving my neighbor, as he describes the impact that not taking care of the planet has on everyone.  If you at all have a chance to pick up a copy, I guarantee is will be eye-opening and convicting, and will make you look at how you live differently. 

Please see below for both Marion residents and residents outside Marion, but inside Grant County:

Recycling in Marion:
If you're in city limits, you put your recycling out in front of your house the same day as you put out your trash.  You can use any kind of bin to put the recycling out, or a cardboard box (which is able to be recycled itself).  The city has outsourced recycling to Wabash Valley Recycling (#765.662.1611).

Items you can recycle in Marion curbside:
  • paper, cardboard
  • glass - any
  • plastic - ANY # inside the triangle on the bottom of the plastic
Note: these items that are picked up in Marion do NOT need to be sorted - they can all go in the same bin. 

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Victory Acres Farm - PART 2

I've had a bunch of questions about Victory Acres since my first post.  Most people have wanted to know what you get, and how much it costs.

As far as what you get, it depends on what is in season, how the rains affect the crop, etc.  We joined in August, and since then this is what I remember getting (it is not an exhaustive list):
  • tomatoes (all kinds)
  • watermelon
  • peppers (green, cherry, hot, jalapenos, etc.)
  • sweet potatoes
  • pick-your-own berries
  • cabbage
  • green beans
  • snap peas
  • lettuce (multiple varieties)
  • basil (sooo good!)
  • cilantro
  • thyme
  • rosemary
  • okra
  • fresh cut flowers 
  • Swiss chard (this is like spinach)
  • garlic
  • turnips
  • beets
  • green tomatoes (yes, I made fried green tomatoes, and believe it or not they were awesome!)
  • ??? I'm sure I'm forgetting other things

The prices for 2011 haven't been posted yet, but when they are I'll let you know.  The cost varies depending on if you buy a whole or a half share.  Below I've posted the cost for 2010.  You can get a half or a whole share - my family is a family of 4 - my husband, me, and a 3 and a 1 year old.  We got a half share - most weeks it was enough, and we're planning on getting a half share again next season.

PRICE PER SHARE
For returning members, if you ordered before Dec. 31 it was:
Half Share $285  (if you ordered after Dec. 31 it was $300)*
Full Share $450 (if you ordered after Dec. it was $480)
These prices are for 20 weeks of produce - May thru Oct
*we joined late in the season - in Aug, and our amount was prorated.

For more info:
E-Mail us: vacsa@vicm.org
Phone: 765-998-2590
www.VictoryAcres.org

Friday, October 29, 2010

Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Free Mammograms!

Did you know that 56% of women in Grant County that SHOULD are NOT getting mammograms?  Are you?

Breast cancer was the #1 diagnosed cancer in Grant County last year.  Annual mammograms for people without a family history of breast cancer should start at age 40.  If you have a family history breast cancer, you should be getting regular mammograms starting at age 35.  See your doctor for more info & to find out if you should be getting a mammogram this year.

Cancer Services of Grant County offers FREE mammograms!  Call #664-6815 for more info.

To schedule your mammogram at MGH call #662-4144.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Early Voting is Open NOW - Election Day Tues, Nov. 2!

Election day is next week, Tuesday, November 2 - but, did you know that early voting is open NOW?  Beat the crowds and get your vote in today!  (Remember to take your government issued photo ID with you)

Have questions?  Don't know where your polling place is on Nov. 2?  Click https://indianavoters.in.gov/PublicSite/PublicMain.aspx

Elections/Voter Registration in Grant County
Address: 101 E 4th, Marion, IN 46952
Phone: (765) 668-7458

Not registered to vote?  You can do it online!  Go to http://www.indianavoters.com/



Think of Us First E vent - Fri, Oct. 29th - Flu shots, refrshements & prizes

Friday, Oct. 29 from 9am - 5pm, there is an event at the Indiana Members Credit Union (1619 E. 38th St. in Marion) that is open to the public.  "Think of Us First" will have refreshments and prizes, as well as $20 flu shots available (while supplies last), and special product offerings.

For more info, call #674-3348.

If you  haven't gotten a flu shot yet, stop on by! 

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Part 2 - Area Activities thru Oct. 31

If you didn't see yesterday's post on Area Activities, please see it also.

Here are a few more additions on our list of things to do this week:


Annual Fall Art Show - Marion Public Library - thru Oct. 31
Artists from all over the area are exhibiting their work in this annual art show, which is held at the Marion Public Library on the 2nd floor.  Take your kids, look at the artwork, and vote on your favorite!

Your kiddos may even have artwork in this show - I know my son's school sent home a notice that his classes' artwork was being displayed, so I imagine other schools/preschools did the same.  (On that note, if your kid's artwork is being displayed, you are supposed to pick it up on Oct. 31 in the afternoon between 1 and 4pm - if you want the artwork back, be sure to pick it up!)

Library Hours: 9 to 8 Weekdays, 9 to 5 Saturdays, 1 to 4 Sundays

"Think of Us First" - Indiana Members Credit Union - Friday, Oct. 29 from 9am - 5pm
Event for the public at the Indiana Members Credit Union (1619 E. 38th St. in Marion).  "Think of Us First" will have refreshments and prizes, as well as $20 flu shots available (while supplies last), and special product offerings.  For more info, call #674-3348.  If you  haven't gotten a flu shot yet, stop on by!

YMCA Dance the Night Away - ZUMBA - Oct. 29th from 6-8pm
Invite your friends, join the party, and dance the night away!  Door prizes for the most original costumes.  $5/person

More YMCA
Through Oct. 30th you can get $20 off your YMCA joiner fee by taking in 10 canned goods that will be donated to St. Martin's and the Salvation Army.  And, pay for the entire year up front and get your 13th month free!  Do something good for yourself and the community!

Did you know the YMCA has free childcare for their members while they work out?  I was a member of the YMCA in Houston before moving here, and now am a member of the Wellness Center on Adams street - both have childcare for members, and it keeps me sane!  My best advice to all new moms is to join a gym with childcare, use it as often as you can, and don't feel guilty about it!  An hour to work out and then shower/shave/get ready for the day will make you a better person, and makes me a better mom!  DO IT! 



Fall Carnival - New Life Community Church - Oct. 31 from 6-8pm
New Life Community Church is hosting a carnival for kids of all ages.  Come and enjoy the cake walk, hay ride, games, haunted house (for older kids), etc.  Wear your costumes if you like!  for more info see: www.newlifecc.us

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Area Activities - 10/25 - 10/31

What are you doing with your family this week?  See list of activity options below!


Indiana Wesleyan University HARVEST Party - Thursday, Oct. 28, 6:00-8:00pm
This event is open to the community and is in the IWU Gym- bring your kiddos in costume to this event, run by IWU students.  Candy, games, bouncy things, etc.  Lots of fun, but a little crazy, so if you have more than one kiddo, I recommend bringing a helping set of hands to keep track of them! Note: this event is FREE!
http://www.indwes.edu/Locations/  See this link for a campus parking MAP. 

Mt. Olive Holiday Bazaar - Oct. 30th 9am - 1pm
www.mtoliveumc.com/Mt. Olive United Methodist Church is located  in the rural northwestern area of Grant County at the corner of West Chapel Pike and 300 W. Address is 2015 N 300 W, Marion, IN  46952

Bazaar - Christland United Methodist Church - Oct. 30 from 9am - 2pm
721 E. Charles St.

Annual Food & Crafts Bazaar - Mount Etna United Methodist Church - Oct. 30 from 9am - 2pm
Corner of Ind 9 and Ind 124



Country Gathering Arts and Crafts Show - Oct. 30 from 9am - 4pm
Five Points Mall in Marion (in former Steve and Barry's Store)
55+ exhibitors from IN and OH with handcrafted items for sale
$1 admission for adults

Easy Acre Farm Presents "Halloween Hoot" - Oct. 30 & 31
A kid friendly Happy Haunt with Fall Farm activities (ages 10 and younger)
Oct. 30 & 31 from Noon to 5pm ($5/person)
www.easyacrefarm.homestead.com

Directions: 3347 E 50 N in Howard County; Easy Acre Farm is located 2 miles East of Kokomo, just 1/2 mile North of State Road 22 between Kokomo and Greentown; take SR 22 to 300 East and follow signs for 1 mile to the farm on 50 North. 


Old Sycamore Farm Pumpkin Patch - Open Oct. 1 - 31
Pick your own pumpkin, hay bale maze, petting zoo, wagon rides, pony rides, gourd slinging, moonwalk & slide, and for those who are interested they have a haunted house on Friday and Saturday nights.  Prices for each activity vary - see website for more info   www.oldsycamorebarn.com/

Address: 6702 W. 00 N.S., KOKOMO, IN 46901
HOURS 
WED - FRI 12pm - 7pm
SAT - 12pm - 7pm
SUN - 12pm - 7pm

Closed Monday and Tuesday
HAUNTED BARN - FRI & SAT 8:00pm -11:30pm

Harvest Party - Sunnycrest Baptist Church - Oct. 30 from 5:00 - 8:00pm
Hayrides, bonfire, trunk-or-treat, games, candy, food, fun (an alternative to Halloween)
www.sunnycrestbaptist.org/
2172 W Chapel Pike
Marion, IN 46952-1567
(765) 664-30


Trunk or Treat - Lighthouse Assembly Church - Oct. 30th from 4pm - 7pm
Kmart parking lot in Gas City

Sweetser Switch Trail Pumpkin Walk - 10-30 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
113 N. Main St., Sweetser, IN 46987
Sponsored by the Sweetser Lions Club.  Fall event features glowing jack-o-lanterns on the trail, luminaries lining the trail, a costume parade down Main St., hay rides, games, clowns, and a bonfire by the first shelter on the trail.  Refreshments available.  Parade judging starts promptly at 6:30, after which the parade begins down Main St. to the trail.  For additional information, contact Jami or Chuck at 765-384-7470. 

Indiana Wesleyan University Chorale with the Marion Philharmonic Orchestra - "Celebration of Chopin's Bicentennial" - Sat, Oct. 30 at 7:30pm
At the IWU Phillippe Performing Arts Center
$18 for adults, $5 for students - tickets can be purchased at the Phillippe box office.
http://www.indwes.edu/Locations/ Want to learn more about the Marion Philharmonic Orchestra?  www.marionphil.org or #662-0012


Haunted Trail Walk - Oct. 30 from 6pm - 8:30pm
Jackson Morrow Park, Kokomo
Free Admission
For more info: #765.456.7275

Monday, October 25, 2010

Groupon - CHECK IT OUT! Fort Wayne or Indy!

Have you all signed up with Groupon yet?  My sister raved about it for months before I ever got around to looking into it.  If you don't know what it is, it is definitely worth looking into.  Essentially, it is a way that businesses offer their services for discounted prices by selling them in bulk.  Businesses team up with Groupon to offer a service, and if Groupon can get a certain  # of people to purchase the service at a discounted price the business will sell them (or as Groupon says, "the sale is on!").  This is a free service to register for, and you are under NO obligation to buy.  If you sign up, Groupon will send you an email each week day with the "deal of the day" - if you decide to buy, and if enough other people buy, you get the deal!  If for some reason enough people don't sign up, you aren't out anything, but you don't get the deal.  Groupon lets you know via email if you get the deal.  Still not sure?  Check it out!

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu5931968

Click the link above to see today's deal in Fort Wayne, which is $20 for $40 worth of skin care, bath and beauty products at The Body Shop.  Basically, you're buying a $40 gift card for $20!!!!  Get your Christmas shopping done early! I have bought a few Groupons to date, and have had no problems using them - I have been pleasantly surprised, and wish I signed up sooner!  You just print out your Groupon and take it to the store business like you would a gift certificate. 

They  have Groupon for most all major cities - try Indy too!  It is a neat way of being exposed to different businesses.  In the last month or two I've been signed up they've featured salons, manicures, massages, restaurants, coffee shops, GAP, lazer tag, etc. - just about anything you can think of!  Remember, no obligation, so check it out!

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu5931968

Brian Regan Clip (Coming Nov. 4 Honeywell Center in Wabash)

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Brian Regan - Nov 4 - Honeywell Center in Wabash - Don't miss it!

Brian Regan is coming to the Honeywell Center in Wabash on November 4th at 7:30pm.  If you don't know who Brian Regan is, you are missing out!  This guy is a comedian that is stinkin' funny.  I promise you won't be sad you saw him!  And, just so you know, he's clean (or at least the last time I saw him he was and I haven't heard otherwise), which is difficult to find in comedians these days.

Grab your spouse or a friend, get tickets and GO!  It is so worth it - you will laugh your socks off.  This is a GREAT date - surprise someone with tickets & grab dinner on the way! 

www.honeywellcenter.org/10_brianRegan.html


Brian Regan
Thurs., Nov. 4 - 7:30 pm

Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of
the premier comedians in the country.  The perfect
balance of sophisticated writing and physicality,
Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans
that span generations.  You've heard him on
Bob & Tom - now come see him live!

$15, $35, $50

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Fall Weekend

So what are you doing with your family this weekend?  I LOVE fall, and I'm always looking for affordable ways to entertain my little men.  What is going on this weekend in the area?  See some ideas below, and don't forget to take your camera!

Trunk or Treat -Have your kids dress up in their costumes and take them to this safe, family-friendly fall event. 
Saturday, Oct. 23 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Liberty Baptist Church
517 Church Street
Sweetser, IN 46987
Phone: 765-384-7004

Spencer's Farm - Need some pumpkins, apples, gourds?  If you haven't visited Spencer's, I highly recommend it!  It is a great family farm with in-season produce at excellent prices!  They also have cage-free eggs for only $1.50/dozen!
Directions: from Marion, go EAST on 38th Street for 15-20 minutes.  The farm is on your right, and has a sign out on the street. 

Campbell's Pumpkin Patch in Wabash, IN - Fall family fun that is affordable!  Take a hay ride, do the corn maze, feed the animals, let your kids jump in a giant pumpkin while you enjoy a cup of cider and a piece of pumpkin pie, and, of course, pick up a pumpkin and a mum! 
http://www.campbellspumpkinpatch.net/

Hainlen Orchard
Not a "pick-your-own", but still a beautiful orchard that makes a fun outing. 
Address:? 5588 County Road N 1250 East Converse, IN 46919
Phone: 765.395.3274
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM, Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Extras:
35 varieties of Apples, jelly and jams, gourds, squash, peaches, honey, cider

What should you do with all of these apples once you get them?  I suggest an Awesome Apple Crisp from Food.com (received 5 stars!).

Awesome Apple Crisp Ingredients:

Fruit Filling

Topping

Directions:

Prep Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 1/4 hr
  1. 1 Peel& slice your apples and place in bottom of 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. 2 Mix sugar, 1 tbsp.
  3. 3 flour& cinnamon together and sprinkle over apples.
  4. 4 Pour water evenly over all.
  5. 5 (and lemon juice if using) Combine the toppping ingredients until crumbly and spread all over apples.
  6. 6 Bake at 350 for about 45 mins.
  7. 7 I serve topped with vanilla ice cream!
  8. 8 YUM!


What else do you know about that is going on in the area this weekend?  Post your activity in the comments section below.

Leaves, leaves, and more leaves!

Leaves keeping you busy these days?  Wondering what you can do with them?

1.  Make a pile and jump in them!
2.  After making a pile and jumping in them, bag them in brown paper bags for yard waste (you can get these at Lowes, Big R, etc.) and call the city to pick them up (#765-668-4451 is the Street Department).  Note: the bags must only have yard waste, no garbage.
3.  Even better than bagging them, you can rake them into the street, and the city of Marion is making periodic sweeps of the city and picking up the leaves.  I personally love this option because it does NOT require bagging!  They are making their first sweep NEXT WEEK (the last week in Oct.) and are planning their next sweep in about 3 weeks.  They're hoping to do one more sweep of the city in Dec if there isn't too much snow.  Call the Street Department to make sure your area is included (#765-668-4451).

Victory Acres Farm - Community Supported Agriculture

Have you heard about Victory Acres in Upland, IN?  Our family learned about Victory Acres from a friend and purchased a 1/2 CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) share this past summer.  What a GREAT experience for our family it has been!  We "own" part of this farm share, and from May - Oct get to pick up our 1/2 share of vegetables and fruits out at the farm weekly.  We get to see where our food comes from, our kids get to learn about farms and how food is grown and where it comes from, we get to be part of a great ministry (see below), and we get fabulous locally grown organic produce weekly.  This has definitely been a "win win" for us, and I encourage you to look into the possibility of joining.  As an aside, if you haven't seen Food, Inc. (the movie), I highly recommend it, as it will truly make you look at what you are eating differently (www.foodincmovie.com). 

In addition to produce, you can get cage free eggs, hens for meat, grass fed beef, locally grown honey, etc. 

If you are interested in grass fed beef, Victory Acres is currently accepting applications for purchasing part of a beef share.  For more info and an application, contact Victory Acres (info below).  

Victory Acres Farm
5275 South 800 East
Upland, IN 46989
www.victoryacres.org
email: VACSA@vicm.org
#765-998-2590

Directions to the farm:
Take Exit 59 off of I-69 and head east towards Upland on IN-22.  After about a mile, take a right on S 800 E (there's a True Value hardware store on the corner).  Go past the cemetery and the church and you'll see the farm on the left side of the road (less than a half mile from IN-22).
Below is all taken from the Victory Acres Website:

What is a CSA?

    Community Supported Agriculture or CSA is a unique model of local agriculture whose roots reach back 30 years to Japan, where a group of women were concerned with the use of pesticides. Originally called "teikei" in Japanese, which translates to "putting the farmers' face on food," the concept later moved to Europe. Eventually, in the mid-1930's CSA made its way to the U.S. It is now spreading into the Mid-west. Indiana currently has 16 CSA operations.
       It’s about FRESH, quality, locally grown produce direct from the farmers; from YOUR farm!
       Being part of a CSA is a relationship of mutual support and commitment between local farmers and community members who pay the farmer an annual membership fee to cover the production costs of the farm. In turn, members receive a weekly share of the harvest during the local growing season. This arrangement gives the farmer a direct connection to and relationship with the consumer.
       Ultimately, CSA creates "COMMUNITY-SUPPORTED-AGRICULTURE" where members receive a wide variety of local in-season foods harvested at their peak of ripeness, flavor and vitamin and mineral content.
       In a recent survey of 250 CSA members on the East Coast, the most important reasons for membership in a CSA were support for local farming, quality of produce, environmental and food resource concerns, and knowing the farmer. Victory Acres is providing all of these values. Our customers know us by name, visit the farm where their food is produced, and they approve of our farming practices.
      We grow and produce all our own products

CSA Vegetable Share

      A CSA share involves 20-22 weeks of over 40 certified naturally grown vegetables and a growing assortment of perennial crops. See the FAQ’s sheet for more details. We know that a living and fertile soil makes for nutritionally dense and the best quality and tasting produce. We do all that we can to create such soil conditions: cover crops, compost application, minimum till, crop rotation, and mulching. We also believe this is a responsible use of God’s creation.
      You are our primary concern. We do sell to local restaurants, but you receive first fruits and best fruits. Members and their families are welcome to hike, camp, and picnic on the farm. We are currently working on a trail system. Members are also given first access to our other farm products and future farm products; pastured beef, pastured pigs, poultry, pastured eggs, and other products before non-members and at a reduced rate! 

As a Christian, I am a steward.

As a Christian, I am a steward. Everything that I have has been given to me by God. I will give an account one day for how I use those resources. That includes not just my finances but also my home, my family, my health, and my world. Every aspect of life is part of stewardship.
In light of that, how we live really matters. Health is a large part of our lives. If we are healthy, we are better able to fulfill God’s purposes for us. Many factors affect our health over which we have no control. However, there is one big area that we do control. The old adage, “You are what you eat,” is the truth. Many Christians go to great lengths to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and drugs because of their harmful effects; however, those same people think nothing of consuming large amounts of grossly unhealthy foods – the effect of which are every bit as deadly.
Healthy eating starts with making healthy food choices. Buying more fruits and vegetables translates into eating more of them (and a healthier diet.) If junk food is all you buy, then that’s all you’ll eat. However, many times the people who need healthy foods most find them least available. In our inner-city neighborhood, there are only convenience stores, and without a vehicle or a bus trip, healthy foods are not readily available.
CSA’s are a great way to get access to high quality healthy foods. Because members share in the risk and reward of the farm, they generally get more produce for their money than they would at the grocery store, and they also get a more nutritionally-dense product. With no chemicals killing off all of the “good guys” along with the “bad guys,” the fertility of the ground is fully developed. Healthy ground produces healthy plants, and healthy plants produce healthy fruits and vegetables. By caring for the land that cares for us, we all reap the benefits. Victory Acres CSA delivers certified naturally grown food to our inner city neighborhood, and I am a proud, charter member.
One criticism of many CSA’s nation-wide is that they are for elitists. Most people cannot afford to purchase all of their vegetables for the season at one time, and as a result they are excluded. Victory Acres is different. We have a core belief in sustainability as well as justice. For the third year in a row, quality, naturally-grown fruits and vegetables will be available to our low income neighbors through our “Share a Share” program. Neighbors that could not otherwise afford a membership in our CSA are sponsored through donations from people like you. They will receive produce throughout the year as well as an opportunity to participate in the activities of the farm. Relationships are built, and the food that they receive is a huge blessing.
We have relationships at Victory Inner-city Ministries that mean a lot to us. We don’t just think that “their children” should be eating a can of sodium-laced soup while “our children” are eating healthy, fresh produce from the farm. While we understand that those cans of soup could be life-saving to some, we believe that there is a better way. We are seeking that better way, a way of relationships, a way where we truly love our neighbor as ourselves, and a way that reveals the wisdom of Christ to the world.

Friday, October 22, 2010

New Businesses in Marion!

I'm always excited about new businesses in town.  A few new ones to check out in the area...

The Potter's House - "Making it Marion, making it sweeter!"
You may have seen these billboards the past few months and wondered, as I did, what does that mean????  Finally, we know!  The Potter's House is a new business in town, serving hand dipped ice cream and South Bend Chocolates.  It is located on the Bypass in Marion right next to Tree of Life (between Meijer and Walmart on the Bypass - 3700 S. Western Ave.), and it is OPEN!  Personally, I'm quite excited to have a new place to go on a date with my husband, and who doesn't love chocolate?

Works Cited, LLC
Did you know there is a new bookstore/cafe in town?  Works Cited opened up early August in downtown Marion.  Part used bookstore/part cafe, this locally owned new business is on Adams Street, and features a few other local small business owners (such as a photographer) out of their location.  They have a fun kids area, and are starting a kids "story time" at 3pm on Saturdays in their kids area.  They offer locally roasted Midwest Coffee Roasters coffee, so call a friend, take your kids, and have a cup of coffee! 

Location:
Marion, IN, 46952
Hours:    Mon - Sat:  7:00 am - 9:00 pm
              Sun:  12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Midwest Coffee Roasting Company
www.midwestcoffeecompany.com
You may know about Midwest Coffee Roasters (a local Coffee Roasting company), and even have had their coffee, but did you know they are opening up a storefront?  I'm very excited about this place, scheduled to have a "soft opening" Thanksgiving weekend.  Located on Spencer Ave., right near the Bypass in Marion, their store will be part coffee roaster/part coffee shop, with WiFi for customers.  I LOVE COFFEE shops and can't wait for this place to open!

Globe Theatre (Indiana Wesleyan's Campus)

Do you all know about this place?  I think it, like many things around here, is a great affordable option for family entertainment, and woefully underutilized. 

The Globe Theatre is the theatre on Indiana Wesleyan's campus (but open to the public), smack dab in the middle of their Student Center.  It is usually $2 to see a move, but sometimes their movies are FREE!  See fall schedule below (I'm personally excited about TOY STORY 3 coming Nov. 12 & 13 - if you haven't seen it, you should!  It is GREAT - I'm pretty sure my husband and I enjoyed it even more than my son :) )

Fall 2010 Schedule

The Last Song

Nov. 5, 6
Fri. 7, 9, 12am
Sat. 2:30, 7, 9

PG, 1 hr 43min.
$2.00

Toy Story 3

Nov. 12, 13
Fri. 7, 9, 12am
Sat. 2:30, 7, 9

G, 1hr 43min.
$2.00

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Nov. 19, 20
Fri. 7, 9:30, 12am
Sat. 2:30, 7, 9:30

PG, 1hr 48min..
$2.00

 

Charlie St. Cloud

Dec. 3, 4
Fri. 7, 9, 12am
Sat. 2:30, 7, 9

PG-13, 1hr 39min.
$2.00


A Christmas Carol

Dec. 10, 11
Fri. 7, 9, 12am
Sat. 2:30, 7, 9

PG, 1 hr 38min.
$2.00

Best Contractor in Marion - Bailey Services

My husband and I were blessed to purchase our first home when we moved to Marion last year.  It is a beautiful old home, built in 1900, and we love it!  We quickly learned that beautiful old homes come with a few problems, and I'm not exaggerating by saying that one of the biggest blessings of our lives last year was Emery Bailey, with Bailey Services.

Emery and his team are amazing - honest, hard working, and reasonable!  I can not say enough good things about Bailey Services, and only hesitate to tell you about them because I KNOW you will all love him too, and then the next time I need him he may be at YOUR house!  :)  That said, I really feel I have to tell the world about them because they've been so wonderful to us!  (Just so you know, I get nothing out of this referral, but the satisfaction of knowing that I'm helping a business that has helped me!!!)  They do just about everything when it comes to home repairs and remodels, and they'll tell you if they can't.  They've fixed our roof, put in new floors in the kitchen and bathroom, worked on the plumbing in our basement and bathroom, and a handful of other things!

Bailey Services
Emery Bailey
5883 S 500 W Marion, IN 46953
(765) 603-0341

Take them a Meal!

Have a friend or family that has had a new baby, a surgery, a sickness, a death, etc.?  Need to coordinate meals for the family and want a great easy way to do it?

www.TakeThemAmeal.com

This is a free service that lets you easily coordinate meals - you can enter in the person's contact name, number, address, food likes and dislikes, allergies, # of people cooking for, dates meals are needed, etc.  It is a great tool for blessing someone!  I think back to my former church and all the emails that went back and forth (with half the church copied on every one) trying to fill dates for meals - WHEW!  This site simplifies the process and cuts down the clutter!

Free Activities In & Around Marion

I'm always looking for very low cost, or ideally FREE activities to do with my family.  Some of my favorites in and around Marion are...

Marion Library (see post on Library)

Mall PlayPlace (between SEARS and JCPenney entrances) - if your kids are crawling thru about 5 years old, this is a fun spot for a play date.  Meet another mom & watch your kiddos play while you get to sit and visit! 

Cardinal Greenway - what a GREAT path for walking, biking, roller blading, pushing stroller, etc.  Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather while you still can!  For more info see www.cardinalgreenways.org

Matter Park - fabulous park for all ages... go and play tag with your kids at Matter Park and they'll be in heaven!

Tree of Life - have you checked out the new kids are at Tree of Life bookstore on the Bypass?  Go, grab a cup of tea and visit with a friend while your kids play.

Gas City Zoo - I'm using the word "zoo" liberally here, but if you have small kids, they won't know the difference and won't care! If you haven't been here, this "zoo" is actually just a bunch of animals that feed on the grass at the Gas City water treatment plant.  They are fenced in, and you can feed them (there is a vending machine with $.25 bags of food).  Go to gas city and turn on BROADWAY by the cemetary.  Address is 500 S Broadway. 

What other fun free things do you do with your kids around Marion?  List them in the comments section below OR email me at MarionMomBlog@gmail.com and I'll add them to the page!

MOPS (Mother's of Preschoolers) in Marion

Do you have kids ages 0 - kindergarden?  Do you know about MOPS?   MOPS (Mother's of Preschoolers) is a mom's support group for the community.  It meets at College Wesleyan Church (200 East 38th Street Marion, Indiana 46953) on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the month, and every mom in the community with kid(s) ages 0 - kindergarden is welcome!  Childcare is provided free of charge, and there is a suggested donation of $3 for crafts & misc each meeting.  We get together, get a break from our kids, have brunch (donated by moms in the group), visit with each other, hear a speaker, do a craft, and just RELAX!  If you haven't tried it out - please do! 
Don't know anyone who goes?  Ask for me - Kristi Hawkins (Marion MOM!)!

Hope to see you there! 

Our meetings are from 9:30 - 11:30 on the dates below:
 Nov 4
Nov 18
Dec 2
Dec 16
Jan 6
Jan 20
Feb 3
Feb 17
March 3
March 17
April 7
April 21

For more info:
marionmops@gmail.com
www.MOPS.org

Marion Library - a GREAT place!

I love the Marion library - I think it is a great place, for my kids and for me!  If you haven't visited the library lately (or ever), you should!  If you don't already have one, it is free to sign up for a library card, and having one gives you access to checking out books and movies!  Before you spend money at the video store, check out the options at the library!

The Kids Area
Have you met Jack & Jill?  They are two guinea pigs in the kids area that my boys love!  Did you know that there are also puzzles & toys in the back of the kids area, a fish tank, a rocker for moms with wee ones, places to color, and books galore?  This is a GREAT place for a play date with another mom and her kids!  

Have you checked out the "kits" the kids section has?  They have these GREAT kits that are themed, everything from potty-training to having a new baby to about 30+ other topics!  The kits include books, movies activities, games, etc.  Ask the librarian for a list, and take advantage of these FREE resources! 

Story Times
Do you know about story time at the library?
  • Preschool Takes (ages 3-6) - Mondays and Thursdays at 11am
  • Toddler Tales (18 months - 3 years) - Fridays at 10am
  • Wee Tales (0-18 months) - Fridays at 11am

The library also has a knitting group (for beginners and advanced), computer classes, craft times for kids, book discussion groups, movie nights, and more?  Stop by and pick up a calendar for more info, or check them out on the web at: www.marion.lib.in.us/



Hours
After Labor Day
(Winter Hours)
After Memorial Day
(Summer Hours)
Carnegie Building
Hours
9 to 8 Weekdays
9 to 5 Saturdays
1 to 4 Sundays
9 to 8 Weekdays
9 to 5 Saturdays
Closed Sundays
Same as Library Except-
Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday, Close at 5:30
The Library is closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Eve (close at 5:30), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day (and Tuesday, December 26th), and New Year's Eve (close at 5:00).

Kidsignments - Kids Consignment Sale

If you haven't attended a Kidsignments sale, you are missing out!  This is one of the coolest things I've been a part of since moving to Marion.  It is a weekend consignment sale with every kind of kid/baby thing imaginable, all at FANTASTIC prices!  Baby & Kids clothes, bottles, sippy cups, toys, strollers, beds, dressers, bikes, books, games, DVDs, shoes, etc.  Just about everything you need/want for your kiddos!   Kidsignments is always looking for new consignors, so start making a pile of all your gently used items so you can consign in the spring!  This past sale (Fall 2010) I made $4 more than I spent consigning, so it was definitely a win-win for me because I got rid of things my boys don't need/use/want anymore and got the next stage of clothes & toys for Christmas that they need! 

The sale is 2x year, one in the fall and one in the spring.  Dates for Spring 2011 haven't been advertised yet, but as soon as they are I'll let you know so you can mark it on your calendar! 

NOTE: They also have a version of this sale for women/teens called Ladysignments.  Also very cool!  This sale is only in the spring.  

For more info:
www.marionconsignments.com

Still need immunizations for your children?

Health Department
Address: 401 S. Adams St. Marion, IN 46953
Phone: 765-651-2401
Fax: 765-651-2419
Email: health@grantcounty.net
 
Monday Clinic:  Free Children's Immunizations
Ages:  infant to 6 yrs.
Must bring shot record
8:00 am to 11:00 am and 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
 
 
 FREE Immunizations for Grades 6-12    (ages 11-18)           
In 2009, the Indiana State Legistation revised the Indiana Code to require all 6-12 students to receive additional immunizations against the following diseases.
1)  Meningitis        2)  Varicella (Chicken Pox)   3)  Tdap (Tetanus, Diptheria and Pertussis)

Tuesday thru Fridays  8-11 am and 1-3 pm
 
 ***Parents will need to bring their child's shot record and child must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian.*******

Flu Shots? YES!

Do I really need a flu shot?  YES!!!

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/
Flu activity in the United States is low now, making this an excellent time to get a flu vaccine. This season, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated, even if they got a seasonal or 2009 H1N1 vaccine last season. The 2010-2011 flu vaccine has been updated to protect against the three flu viruses that CDC expects will cause the most illness in the United States this season.

On Friday, Oct. 22, the Grant County Health Dept. is having a flu shot clinic for adults and adolescents.  The clinic is 1-3:30pm and costs $20 (cash or check only).  They are planning the next clinic for Nov. 19.  More details to come.

Grant County Health Dept (off the Marion town square in the same building as the jail)
401 S Adams Street
Marion, IN 46953


Many other places, especially pharmacies are offering flu shots, usually for $25.  Indiana Wesleyan University employees have the SHOT available for employees (shot, not mist) for $20 - call the Health Center to schedule at #677-2206.