Sherwood Forest News April 2013

News from the Forest

Mother Nature is welcoming in spring with warmer weather and longer, sunnier days--yay! We’ve seen wild turkeys strutting through the back woods and deer drinking from the creek, along with the return of the robins. It’s beautiful to witness, and it’s a great time of year to stretch your legs, either at the beach or the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. So we hope you can plan a visit soon, and we’ll help you shake off those winter blues. 

April Spring Special
Stay two nights (or more) Sunday through Thursday in April and we’ll treat you to a $25 gas card--that should help lighten the load for a midweek getaway!

Writers’ Workshop With Wade Rouse:
Facing Your Fear and Finding Your Voice (May 16-18)
Fear is what stops most people from pursuing their passion and following their dreams. Fear is also what inhibits most authors from writing what calls to them, and keeps them from finding their voice. Fear is, too often, a writer’s worst and final editor. Author Wade Rouse will lead participants through an in-depth discussion on fear, how it is intertwined with writing, and how it nearly stopped him. He will lead participants through an intensive, emotional, and often life-changing writing exercise that links these two vital elements: how you can overcome your fear and find your own unique voice. This 3-day workshop will be held May 16-18 at the Sherwood Forest B&B. For more info, call Keith or Sue at 800-838-1246.

Sherwood Forest Cottage
Our Cottage is getting booked up for the summer, but here’s what we have left: June 1-7 and 15-21. It goes for $1400 for the week and sleeps up to 5 people, has a full kitchen, washer/dryer, pool privileges, and is only 1/2 block from Lake Michigan and the public beach. And of course, there is still nightly availability for this spring and fall, and yes, it’s pet friendly. For more info, visit the Sherwood Forest Cottage.

Sherwood Forest Picnic Baskets
Venture forth from Sherwood Forest with your own basket of goodies this summer. The picnic includes a fine selection of Italian meats, cheeses, and baguettes, along with fresh fruit and sweets to make your afternoon rendezvous complete. To wet your whistle, choose from spritzers or bottled water (vegetarian selection also available). Price: $55 for two.

Birthday Bash
You provide the birthday, and we’ll handle all the arrangements. All you need to do is bring your birthday suit (and suitcase). Upon arrival, you’ll enter a celebration-filled room with helium balloons all inscribed with messages foretelling of the wonderful event taking place, a birthday bouquet, and a bottle of Michigan champagne We’ll also include for your gastronomical pleasure, the piece de resistance, a specially-made birthday cake (singing optional). Cost: $75.

Gift Certificates
Give the most amazing gift on the planet. Imagine receiving a gift certificate from Sherwood Forest B&B! After the recipient jumps up and down and hugs that special someone, he or she will rush to the phone to book a room at Sherwood Forest (just gotta have that fireplace/Jacuzzi suite). Call 800-838-1246, or visit Sherwood Forest Gift Certificates.

Melt Your Stress Away Package
Upon your arrival, you’ll find a beautiful wine and cheese basket with a bouquet of fresh flowers. During your visit you’ll each experience a soothing massage in a style suited just for you and a $30 voucher good toward a romantic dinner at a fine restaurant. Upon your departure (which we’re sure you’ll want to delay as long as possible before returning to the real world), a gift from us: a compact disc of relaxing music and an illustrated guide to massage. Price: $235 (does not include room rate). If you wish to have this awaiting your arrival, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Our Packages

Dinner Theater Package
Looking for a great getaway including fantastic lodging, an incredible meal, and some awesome off-Broadway theater? We can help you out: you'll get 2 nights at Sherwood Forest B&B, a dinner voucher for $50 at Hercules in Saugatuck (which offers the best of casual fine dining in a relaxed setting and they also have an outdoor garden area), then you'll be off to the Mason Street Warehouse (walking distance from the restaurant), where you'll experience professional off-Broadway live theater. The line up for this season is Xanadu (June 21-July 14); Game Show (July 26-August 11); and Closer than Ever (August 16-Sept 1). Package prices range from $268 to $603. To book this package, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Bed and Breakfast and Brewery
Looking for a weekend getaway involving brewing your own batch of beer? Sherwood Forest is offering a unique package that includes a 2-night stay plus access to Saugatuck Brewing Company’s brew-on-site facilities. SBC will provide the recipes and the ingredients, the professional brewing equipment, and the expertise to take you through the brewing process. You’ll brew at least 11 gallons of beer (sixty 22-oz. bottles). If 11 gallons of beer is more than you need, bring a friend or two and split the batch. It takes 3-4 hours to brew your batch and you return in 2weeks to bottle and sample your beer, which takes about 2 hours. Or you can have them bottle it and pick it up (an extra $20). The cost runs from $635-$715, depending on the time of year and the room. For more info or to book this package, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Cooking Classes
We’ve designed a culinary getaway you won’t want to miss out on. Festivities kick off with martinis and risotto at a nearby restaurant--we’ll recommend a great place to eat so you don’t have to do the hit and miss thing. After a stress-free evening and gourmet breakfast, it’s off to Saugatuck and Douglas, where you’ll experience some awesome shopping, from hip and cool clothing to kitchen appliances, wines from far away places, spices from the Orient, body butters, antiques & artwork. Then it’s off to join either Chef LaPerriere or Chef Galligan in their kitchen, where you will hone your cooking skills. They will confidently guide you on a culinary journey, integrating their experiences, philosophies, and tricks-of-the-trade, leading you to a successful and rewarding experience in your own kitchen. Their passion for food, thorough explanation of techniques, and easy-going approach to learning will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Available for 2 to 10 people—cost ranges from $150 to $850. For more info or to book this package, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Sherwood Forest & The Ravines Golf Club
Spend one or two nights at Sherwood Forest B&B, and we'll arrange for you to play at The Ravines, an Arnold Palmer signature championship golf course--a sweeping, 18-stanza epic, where nature meets sport in ways you simply must witness to believe. Here's what you get: a one- or two-night stay (additional nights available at regular room price) at Sherwood Forest B&B, 18 holes of golf for two (with a cart) with a guaranteed tee time at The Ravines, and some great dinner recommendations, so you don't have to do the hit-and-miss thing.  Cost ranges from $300 to $640. For more info, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Here’s what’s happening in and around the area:

Town Crier Run
The Town Crier Run is on April 13 with a 5-K and 10-K RUN-WALK around historic Saugatuck, plus a kids’ fun run. For more info, click here.

Tulip Time Festival
Can you believe it? The third largest festival in the United States is just 15 miles north of Saugatuck/Douglas. The Tulip Time Festival dates back to 1929, and today you can still experience some of the same traditional shows that started more than 75 years ago. From May 4-11, there will be Klompen dancers who perform Dutch folk dances, and of course you can tour Windmill Island (Queen Beatrice did) with an original working windmill. The grand finale of the festival will be the Muziekparade at 12:30 p.m. on May 11, with nearly 50 bands, giant helium-filled balloons, and so many floats you’ll lose count. For more info, call 800-822-2770 or visit the Tulip Time Festival.

Wine Dinner
Join the folks at Everyday People Café for their Food and Libation Sensation on April 17. The 5-course dinner will be paired with some fantastic wines, sure to please the palette! For more info, call 269-857-4240. Or if you wish to book a room with us and enjoy the wine dinner, give us a call at 800-838-1246 and we’ll make the arrangements.

Intriguing Conversation
The SCA will host Cudamani on April 18 at 7 p.m. This music and dance ensemble from Bali, Indonesia, will present cutting-edge new works as well as rare classical forms of Gamelan repertoire. Cudamani explores its most basic roots, through teaching, collaboration, and creativity. The musicians play on a hybrid gamelan orchestra using seven tones rather than the usual five. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts.
 
An Evening with Patty Larkin
The SCA presents Patty Larkin on April 27 at 8 p.m. Larkin is part of the urban-folk/pop music phenomenon that spun off of the singer/songwriter explosion of the70s, reinterpreting traditional folk melodies, rock, pop, and bossa nova. A self-described guitar-driven songwriter, Larkin has wound her way through soundscapes of evocative vocals, inventive guitar wizardry, and imaginative lyrics. For more info, visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts or call 269-857-2399.

Songs from the Shower           
Join Stephen Mottram and Peter Black for an eclectic evening of music and song. You’ll hear songs from artists as diverse as kinder, Ebb, Sondheim, Edith Piaf and Adele. Accompanied by one of West Michigan’s finest pianists peter Black. The performance will take place at the Old School House in Douglas at 8 p.m. on Saturday April 13. Tickets are available by e-mailing the Saugatuck Historical Society at fnschmidt@wmol.com.

Music
Visit Salt of the Earth in Fennville for music at 7 p.m.: April 3, Luke Winston-King (blues/jazz/Delta folk); April 7, Madcap Midnight Blues Journey (blues/jazz/folk); April 14, Buddy Greene  (folk/bluegrass); April 21, Red Tail Ring (Americana); April 28, Twangtown Paramours (country, rock, R&B, Nashville twang); May 5, Graham Parsons and the Go Arounds (swampy blues/country waltz); May 12, Nobody's Darling (folk/old timey/bluegrass); May 15, May Erlewine & Samuel Seth Bernard (singer/songwriter); May 19, Nic Gariess and Jessie Nieves (Irish music/dance); and May 26, Andy Young (hammered dulcimer). For more info, call 269-561-7258 or visit Salt of the Earth.

Jazz/Blues
There is some awesome music being played at the What Not Inn (a neat little restaurant) every Saturday: April 6, Gayle Kolb; April 13, Christy and Velvet: April 20, Entourage; and April 27, Diego. Show times are 7-11 p.m. plus every Monday Jazz Jam with the What Not Band. For more info, call 269-543-3341.
 
Film Studies at the Red Barn
Local Douglas resident and film concept developer John Hardy will introduce each film and lead a brief discussion afterward during the Red Barn Film Studies. Screenings are: April 2, Dr. Strangelove with Peter Sellers and George C. Scott; April 9, Imitation of Life with Claudette Colbert and Warren William; April 16, On the Town with Gene Kelly, Ann Miller, and Frank Sinatra; April 23, The Sandpiper with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton; April 30, You Can’t Take It With You with Jean Arthur and James Stewart. All screenings are at 7 p.m. For more info, call 269-857-5300 or visit the Red Barn Theatre.

Film Series
The Knickerbocker Theatre in downtown Holland will present: April 1-6, Amour, about Georges and Anne, who are in their eighties and are cultivated, retired music teachers. One day, Anne has an attack. The couple's bond of love is severely tested. With ruthless clarity, but also with tact and compassion, this film invites you to look at the arrival of death at the end of a Parisian couple’s long marriage, and shows, almost as if for the first time, how the saddest and most intractable facts of life can be transformed into art. Screenings at 7:30 p.m. (subtitled). For more info, call 616-395-7403.
 
Real to Reel Cinema Series
On April 11 at 7 p.m., the SCA will be showing Ai Weiwei (Never Sorry). He is China's most famous international artist, and its most outspoken domestic critic. Against a backdrop of strict censorship and an unresponsive legal system, Ai expresses himself and organizes people through art and social media. In response, Chinese authorities have shut down his blog, beat him up, bulldozed his newly built studio, and held him in secret detention. It is the inside story of a dissident for the digital age who inspires global audiences and blurs the boundaries of art and politics. First-time director Alison Klayman gained unprecedented access to Ai while working as a journalist in China. Her detailed portrait provides a nuanced exploration of contemporary China and one of its most compelling public figures. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts.

Theater
On April 7, Red Barn Theatre will host The Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company presenting Macbeth in a 1-night performance on April 6. Macbeth is Shakespeare’s shortest tragedy and tells the story of a brave Scottish general named Macbeth who receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he will become King of Scotland. For more info, visit the Red Barn Theatre or call 269-857-5300
 
Exhibitions
On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson. Experience the vivid watercolors of the celebrated West Michigan artist through May 4 at the SCA. What is particularly intriguing about this exhibition is that Johnson honed his skills and technique for years as a successful commercial artist, and is now working for pleasure. For more info, call 269-857-2399.

Visiting Writers
Next in the Hope College Visiting Writers series line up on April 18 is Poetry by Edward Hirsch. It takes a brave poet to follow Homer, Virgil, Dante, and Milton into the abyss . . . Hirsch's poems are compassionate, reverential, sometimes relieving and ruthless. He will be reading from selected works at the Knickerbocker Theatre, downtown Holland, at 7 p.m. For more info, call 616-395-7000 or visit Hope College Visiting Writers.
 
Antiques
The Allegan County Antique Market starts up April 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Allegan County Fairgrounds. The 400 exhibitors will be there rain or shine--200 indoor and 200 under canopies (the market is always the last Sunday of the month, April through September). For more info, call 269-735-3333. And don’t forget about the antique hot spot in the area, the Blue Star Antique Pavilion at 2948 Blue Star Highway in Douglas.

Honorable Mentions
April 1-6, Movie, Amour, Knickerbocker, Holland
April 4, Movie, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, Douglas Library. Douglas
April 2, Emerson String Quartet, Hope College GPS, Holland
April 11, Movie, Reel to Reel, Ai Weiwei Never Sorry, SCA, Saugatuck
April 13, Town Crier 5k and 10k race, Saugatuck,
April 18, Visiting Writer Series, Ed Hirsch, Hope College
April 20, Music, Cudamani, Enchanting Sounds of Bali, SCA, Saugatuck
April 21, Lord Admiral of the Douglas Navy’s Birthday
April 25, Music, Cudamani, SCA, Saugatuck
April 27, Music, Patty Larkin, Songs and Stories, SCA, Saugatuck
April 27, Sounds of Saugatuck, Saugatuck and Douglas
April 28, Allegan Antique Market
May 4, Douglas and Saugatuck Spring Preview
May 4, Art and All that Jazz, Douglas
May 4-11, Tulip Time Festival, Holland
May 9, Movie, Real to Reel, Detropia, SCA, Saugatuck
May 17-19, Play, Love, Loss & What I Wore, Red Barn, Saugatuck
May 24, Chain Ferry starts chaining for the season
May 24, Farmers Market, SCA, Saugatuck
May 24-25, Play, Love, Loss & What I Wore, Red Barn, Saugatuck
May 26, Allegan Antique Market, Allegan
June, Every Friday, Farmers Market, SCA, Saugatuck
June 6, Movie, Real to Reel, Brooklyn Castle, SCA, Saugatuck
June 8,  Art & All That Jazz, Doulgas
June 15, Douglas Dutchers Baseball Game, Douglas
June 21-July 14, Play, Xanadu, Mason Street, SCA, Saugatuck
June 22, Douglas Dutchers Baseball Game, Douglas
June 30, Allegan Antique Market, Allegan
July, Every Friday, Farmers Market, SCA, Saugatuck
July 4, Independence Day

Books
Our book of the month is actually The Michigan Quarterly Review. Our dear friend Alison Swan has written prose for it occasionally and we love to read everything she writes and recommends. MQR is an eclectic interdisciplinary journal of arts and culture that seeks to combine the best of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction with outstanding critical essays on literary, cultural, social, and political matters. They are the flagship journal of the University of Michigan. In the past they have published works by Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, John Updike, and other authorities in their field. They also try to include at least one story, essay, or poem by a previously unpublished writer in every issue. It’s a delight to read.  For more info or to order a subscription, click here.

Sherwood Forest Staples
We will pamper you to your heart’s content with one of our Sweetheart Specials (we now can include Godiva Chocolates), or you can try one of our in-house massages--doesn’t get much better than that. And of course, there’s our ever-popular Famous Chefs of Saugatuck Gourmet Dinners November through April. You can visit our Sweetheart Specials. Here’s the link for our Gourmet Dinner details and a sample menu.
 
From the Sherwood Forest Files:
 
Melissa’s Spinach with Tomatoes (so yummy and easy!)

Melissa, our beekeeper from the Greek Isles, has once again returned to us this spring. Her mama, the Greek muse Terpsichore, once again accompanied her daughter, scooped up some of those magnificent shopping coupons we give our guests, and went to do some shopping in Douglas and Saugatuck. In the time being, M as we have so lovingly come to call her brought with her some fresh tomatoes and spinach from somewhere she claims everything is in season all year long.  Once again thanks for sharing.

1 lb. fresh spinach
3 Tb. vegetable oil or three-quarters cup ghee
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
5-oz. piece ginger, peeled and cut into strips
1 tp. chili powder
1 tp. turmeric
1 tp. garam masala
1 tp. coriander seeds
1/2 tp. ground coriander
1/2 tp. cumin seeds
3/4 tp. salt
1 tp. freshly ground black pepper
1 14-oz. can whole tomatoes, smashed with a spoon

Heat the oil in a large skillet--add the onions and garlic, cook gently about 5 minutes. Add the ginger, cook 5 minutes. Add all of the spices and cook another minute.

Add the spinach and mix well to coat in the spice mixture.  Add the tomatoes with their juices and about a half can of water to prevent the spinach from sticking and to make it saucier. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.

For more hip and groovy recipes at visit our Sherwood Forest Recipes Page.

Hope to see you soon!

Keith & Sue
Sherwood Forest Bed & Breakfast
938 Center St.
Douglas, Michigan
http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com
800-838-1246

P.S. Peace on Earth

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Sherwood Forest News March 2013

News from the Forest

March is here and Mother Nature could throw in some more snowy days, which is good for those who enjoy cross-country skiing or sledding, or it’s always nice to curl up by the fireplace with a good book. We’ve got lots of things for you to enjoy in our neck of the woods, so give us a call and we can hook you up with some great cooking classes, dining, massages, shopping specials, antiquing, star gazing, or even a sunset or two.

St. Patty’s Month Offer
Let Sherwood Forest Bed & Breakfast offer you the luck of the Irish this March! You can check out our website packages, including roses and champagne, chocolates, and massages (or give us a call for suggestions). We can also help you with dinner reservations (might be some Leprechauns sitting at the table next to you) at some of the best restaurants West Michigan has to offer. Our offer to you is 50% off your 2nd night’s stay (Sunday-Thursday only, expires March 31). To book a room or for more info, give call us a call at 800-838-1246.

Writers’ Workshop With Wade Rouse:
Facing Your Fear and Finding Your Voice (May 16-18)
Fear is what stops most people from pursuing their passion and following their dreams. Fear is also what inhibits most authors from writing what calls to them, and keeps them from finding their voice. Fear is, too often, a writer’s worst and final editor. Author Wade Rouse will lead participants through an in-depth discussion on fear, how it is intertwined with writing, and how it nearly stopped him. He will lead participants through an intensive, emotional, and often life-changing writing exercise that links these two vital elements: how you can overcome your fear and find your own unique voice. This 3-day workshop will be held May 16-18 at the Sherwood Forest B&B. For more info, call Keith or Sue at 800-838-1246.

Birthday Bash
You provide the birthday, and we’ll handle all the arrangements. All you need to do is bring your birthday suit (and suitcase). Upon arrival, you’ll enter a celebration-filled room with helium balloons all inscribed with messages foretelling of the wonderful event taking place, a birthday bouquet, and a bottle of Michigan champagne. We’ll also include for your gastronomic pleasure, the piece de resistance, a specially made birthday cake (singing optional). Cost: $75.

Shopping Specials
We’ve teamed up with 10 retail stores to offer you some great discounts and promotions in Saugatuck/Douglas, including clothing, food/drink, and art--what a great way to explore some of the distinctive shops this area has to offer, and on your arrival we’ll be happy to share these promotions with you.

Sherwood Forest Cottage (pet friendly)
Looking for a summer getaway? Our Cottage is getting booked up, but here are the weeks we have open: June 1-6, 15-21, 22-28, and August 10-16. It goes for $1400 for the week and sleeps up to 5 people, has a full kitchen, washer/dryer, pool privileges, and is only 1/2 block from Lake Michigan and the Douglas Public Beach. There’s nothing better than a summer vacation near the beach…and of course, there is still nightly availability for this spring, and yes, it’s pet friendly. For more info, visit The Sherwood Forest Cottage or give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Our Packages
Bed and Breakfast and Brewery
Looking for a weekend getaway involving brewing your own batch of beer? Sherwood Forest is offering a unique package that includes a 2-night stay plus access to Saugatuck Brewing Company’s brew-on-site facilities. SBC will provide the recipes and the ingredients, the professional brewing equipment, and the expertise to take you through the brewing process. You’ll brew at least 11 gallons of beer (sixty 22-oz. bottles). If 11 gallons of beer is more than you need, bring a friend or two and split the batch. It takes 3-4 hours to brew your batch and you return in 2weeks to bottle and sample your beer, which takes about 2 hours. Or you can have them bottle it and pick it up (an extra $20).

Melt Your Stress Away Package
Upon your arrival, you’ll find a beautiful wine and cheese basket with a bouquet of fresh flowers. During your visit you’ll each experience a soothing massage in a style suited just for you and a $30 voucher good toward a romantic dinner at a fine restaurant. Upon your departure (which we’re sure you’ll want to delay as long as possible before returning to the real world), a gift from us: a compact disc of relaxing music and an illustrated guide to massage. Price: $235 (does not include room rate). If you wish to have this awaiting your arrival, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Cooking Classes
We’ve designed a culinary getaway you won’t want to miss out on. Festivities kick off with martinis and risotto at a nearby restaurant--we’ll recommend a great place to eat so you don’t have to do the hit and miss thing. After a stress-free evening and gourmet breakfast, it’s off to Saugatuck and Douglas, where you’ll experience some awesome shopping, from hip and cool clothing to kitchen appliances, wines from far away places, spices from the Orient, body butters, antiques & artwork. Then it’s off to join either Chef LaPerriere or Chef Galligan in their kitchen, where you will hone your cooking skills. They will confidently guide you on a culinary journey, integrating their experiences, philosophies, and tricks-of-the-trade, leading you to a successful and rewarding experience in your own kitchen. Their passion for food, thorough explanation of techniques, and easy-going approach to learning will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Available for 2 to 10 people. For more info or to book this package, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Sherwood Forest Gourmet Dinners
Now’s the time to gather up that group of friends or family and plan a visit to Sherwood Forest B&B for one of our awesome Gourmet Dinners. Now through April, let us wine and dine you. Book the entire B&B for 2 days or more, and we’ll have such a feast catered, your taste palates won’t allow any leftovers. We’ve cornered the market on the best chefs Saugatuck and Douglas have to offer, including Chris Ferris, gourmet cheffette who can cook a Spanish paella like you’ve never tasted before; Tony & Dona Amato, the creative chefs behind one of Saugatuck’s favorite lunch spots, The Red Dock Café; Keaton Stearns, chef extraordinaire of The Piper Restaurant; and Matt Balmer, head chef of one our favorite restaurants, The Everyday People Cafe. These epicurean wizards of gastronomic delights will amaze you in what will be your own private dining room, and you’ll have the time of your lives. Here are the details: dinner is $60 per person, guests must provide their own alcohol, and a 2-night minimum stay is required (deposit is nonrefundable if cancellation is made within 30 days of the date). You pick the date (through April) and we’ll pick the chef. Bring your appetite and whatever you need to wet your whistle, sit down, and dinner is served. To book a gourmet dinner, call us at 800-838-1246. You can see some of our past gourmet dinner menus at Dinners at Sherwood Forest Bed and Breakfast

Gift Certificates
Give the most amazing gift on the planet. Imagine receiving a gift certificate from Sherwood Forest B&B! After the recipient jumps up and down and hugs that special someone, he or she will rush to the phone to book a room at Sherwood Forest (just gotta have that fireplace/Jacuzzi suite). Call 800-838-1246, or visit our gift certificate page at Sherwood Forest Gift Certificates

Here’s what’s happening in and around the area:

St. Patrick’s Day
There’s a whole lot of green happening for St. Patrick’s Day on March 16 in Saugatuck and Douglas. Did he really chase all the snakes out of Ireland and teach the Trinity using a shamrock? You’ll have to debate that for yourself over a green pint or two. Here’s the line up for all you leprechaun lovers: area restaurants will be serving up corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, and fabulous desserts such as Bailey’s Irish Cream cheesecake, and don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day parade in downtown Saugatuck at 2 p.m. There will also be an Irish Pub Party at Coral Gables in Saugatuck from 6-9 p.m. with the proceeds benefiting the Saugatuck/Douglas Historical Society.

Wine
The Fenn Valley Winery, a local vineyard, will host an Ethnic Winemakers dinner that starts off with a cellar tour on March 16. Each course features a Fenn Valley wine specifically paired by the chef and winemaker. The winemaker and other Fenn Valley staff are also available to talk about the wine and theory behind the pairings. Reservations are required. For more info, call 269-561-2396 or visit Fenn Valley Winery

Sky Hempy Piano Performance Series
Next in the line up at the SCA will for the keyboard performance: March 3, James Giles (romantic generation followed by a Russian medley of short pieces). For more info call 269-857-2399.

Music
Visit the Saugatuck Brewing Company for music: March 2, An Dro (Celtic); March 9, Tony Reynolds and Wally Michaels (blues/jazz); March 16, Kinfyre (Irish); March 23, The Trace (acoustic classic rock); March 30, Ry Petermann (covers/classic rock). For more info, call 269-857-7222 or visit The Saugatuck Brewing Company

Emerson String Quartet
Next in the line up for the Hope College Great Performance Series on April 2 is The Emerson String Quartet, with more than 30 acclaimed recordings since 1987. Past performances include Brahms’s String Quartet in A minor (Op. 51, No. 2) and the Piano Quintet in F minor (Op. 34), which were written in the 1860s and early 1870s and heralded Brahms’s coming of age as a chamber music composer. For more info, visit Hope Arts or call 616-395-7890.

Janis Ian
At the SCA on March 9, listen to Grammy-winning iconic singer/songwriter Janis Ian in a solo acoustic performance at the SCA. When she was just 15, Ian recorded her self-titled debut, which included Society's Child (Baby I've Been Thinking), a meditation on interracial romance written by Ian while waiting to meet with her school guidance counselor. Her 1975 album, Between the Lines, included the pop smash, At Seventeen, which reached #1 on the U.S. charts and won Ian a Grammy. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts

Mo’ Music
Visit Salt of the Earth in Fennville for music:  March 3, Drew Nelson (song writer-Americana/folk) and Timothy Monger (pop/indie folk/acoustic); March 10, Jason Dennie (folk/instrumental/singer/songwriter) and Drive South (country/Americana); March 17, AnDro (Celtic); March 20, Buddy Mondlock (singer/songwriter); March 20, Rachael Davis (blues/folk/jazz); March 24, Lipbone Redding (R&B/soul), and March 31, Jen Sygit (acoustic/folk). For more info, call 269-561-7258 or visit Salt of the Earth

Jazz/Blues
There is some awesome music being played at the What Not Inn (a neat little restaurant) every Saturday: March 2, Entourage; March 9, Mark Kahney; March 16, Christy and Velvet; March 23, Diego, and March 30, Christy and Velvet. Show times are 7-11 p.m. plus every Monday Jazz Jam with the What Not Band. For more info, call 269-543-3341.

Film
On Thursdays at 7 p.m. at the Saugatuck-Douglas District Library, don’t miss: March 7, Adam’s Rib with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn; March 21, Desk Set with Spencer Tracy and Aubrey Hepburn; April 4, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner with Sidney Poitier, Spencer Tracy, and Katherine Hepburn. For more info, visit the Saugatuck Douglas Library 
   
Real to Reel Cinema Series
On March 14 at 7 p.m., the SCA will be showing Searching for Sugar Man. Discovered in a Detroit bar in the late '60s by two celebrated producers struck by his soulful melodies and prophetic lyrics; they recorded an album that they believed would secure his reputation as the greatest recording artist of his generation. In fact, the album bombed and the singer disappeared into obscurity amid rumors of a gruesome on-stage suicide. But a bootleg recording found its way into apartheid South Africa and, over the next two decades, he became a phenomenon. The film follows the story of two South African fans who set out to find out what really happened to their hero. Their investigation leads them to a story more extraordinary than any of the existing myths about the artist known as Rodriguez. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts

Film Series
The Knickerbocker Theatre in downtown Holland will present: April 1-6, Amour, about Georges and Anne, who are in their eighties and are cultivated, retired music teachers. One day, Anne has an attack. The couple's bond of love is severely tested. With ruthless clarity, but also with tact and compassion, this film invites you to look at the arrival of death at the end of a Parisian couple’s long marriage, and shows, almost as if for the first time, how the saddest and most intractable facts of life can be transformed into art. Screenings at 7:30 p.m. (subtitles). For more info, call 616-395-7403 or visit The Knickerbocker Theatre
  
Hope College Visiting Writers
Next in the line-up is Mark Winegardner, who writes fiction and nonfiction. The varied subjects of his nonfiction have included art forgery, Cuban defectors, Congressman Louis Stokes, the Clown Prince of Baseball, the Southern Literary Mafia, and beer. He will be reading from selected works. The readings are at the Knickerbocker Theatre, downtown Holland, at 7 p.m. For more info, call 616-395-7000 or visit Hope College Visiting Writers
  
Exhibitions
On Location: Lakeshore Watercolors by James Johnson. Experience the vivid watercolors of the celebrated West Michigan artist from March 15-May 4 at the SCA. What is particularly intriguing about this exhibition is that Johnson honed his skills and technique for years as a successful commercial artist, and is now working for pleasure. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts

Exhibitions
Through April 14 in the Focus Gallery, The Holland Museum is exhibiting Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered. Buildings are an important part of an urban landscape--they help create a sense of place, distinguishing one town from another, and serve as landmarks and neighborhoods. Together, they provide the backdrop before which the life of the town plays out. Lost Holland seeks to remind us of some of the downtown buildings that are no longer standing and to showcase buildings that have been reused. For more info, call 888-200-9123

Honorable Mentions
Mar 3, Sky Hempy Keyboard Series, James Giles, SC4A, Saugatuck
Mar 3, Music, Salt of the Earth, Timothy Monger/Drew Nelson, Fennville
Mar 7, Movie, Adams Rib, Douglas Library, Douglas
Mar 9, Music, Janis Ian, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck
Mar 10, Music, Salt of the Earth, Drive South/Jason Dennie, Fennville
March 14, Movie, Reel to Reel, Searching for Sugar Man, SCA, Saugatuck
Mar 16, St Patrick’s Day Festival
Mar 17, Music, Salt of the Earth, AnDro, Fennville
Mar 20, First Day of Spring
Mar 20 Music, Salt of the Earth, Rachel Davis, Fennville
Mar 21, Movie, Desk Set, Douglas Library, Douglas
Mar 24, Music, Salt of the Earth, Lipbone Redding, Fennville
Mar 26, Visiting Writer Series, Mark Winegardner, Hope College
Mar 26, Passover
Mar 31, Easter
Mar 31, Music, Salt of the Earth, Lincoln Country Process, Fennville
April 1-6, Movie, Amour, Knickerbocker, Holland
April 4, Movie, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, Douglas Library. Douglas
April 2, Emerson String Quartet, Hope College GPS, Holland
April 11, Movie, Reel to Reel, Ai Weiwei Never Sorry, SCA, Saugatuck
April 13, Town Crier 5k and 10k race, Saugatuck,
April 18, Visiting Writer Series, Ed Hirsch, Hope College
April 20, Music, Cudamani, Enchanting Sounds of Bali, SCA, Saugatuck
April 21, Lord Admiral of the Douglas Navy’s Birthday
April 25, Music, Cudamani, SCA, Saugatuck
April 27, Music, Patty Larkin, Songs and Stories, SCA, Saugatuck
April 27, Sounds of Saugatuck, Saugatuck and Douglas
April 28, Allegan Antique Market
June 8, Art & All That Jazz, Doulgas
June 15, Douglas Dutchers Baseball Game, Douglas
June 21-July 14, Play, Xanadu, Mason Street, SCA, Saugatuck
June 22, Douglas Dutchers Baseball Game, Douglas

Books
Dark Currents by Jacqueline Carey is the first book in her new series
Agent of Hel. Dark Currents is an excellent new entry in the world of urban fantasy, though to be fair, it’s perhaps more rustic fantasy. Dark Currents does an exemplary job of creating an intriguing world of fantastical creatures, interesting normals, and subtle complexities behind the scenes. Daisy, the main female character, is a good blend of supernatural species and human. The book is a fascinating interpretation of ghouls, and the werewolves are believable, which is refreshing. And best of all, it takes place in a cool little tourist town, just like Saugatuck! This book is entertaining, funny, and well written. You can purchase or order it at the Singapore Bank Bookstore in Saugatuck (269-857-3785).

Sherwood Forest Staples
We will pamper you to your heart’s content with one of our Sweetheart Specials (we now can include Godiva Chocolates), or you can try one of our in-house massages--doesn’t get much better than that. And of course, there’s our ever-popular Famous Chefs of Saugatuck Gourmet Dinners November through April. You can visit our Sweetheart Specials at 
Sweetheart Specials
Here’s the link for gourmet dinner details and a sample menu:
Sherwood Forest Gourmet Dinners

From the Sherwood Forest Files:

Mama-San’s Lemon Squares
Mama San Carol has been feeding the masses of her family for generations, mistress of the eternal happiness among her children and grandchildren for the savory recipes she has served up over the decades. We snuck into her secret recipe file the other day, and cooked up a batch of these babies, left them on her counter (after we ate a few) and left a note from her secret admirers.

Crust:
One-half cup butter
One-cup flour
One-quarter cup powdered sugar
-------
Filling:
Two eggs
One-cup sugar
One-quarter teaspoon salt
The juice from one medium-sized lemon
One half-teaspoon baking powder
Two tablespoons flour

Assemblage:
Cream the first three ingredients, press into a 9 x 9 ungreased pan and bake at 350 for 15 minutes.
Mix the rest of the ingredients and pour onto crust, bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes or until it starts to brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

You can visit, copy, cook and peruse more of our delicious recipes at 
Sherwood Forest Bed and Breakfast Recipes

Hope to see you soon!

Keith & Sue
Sherwood Forest Bed & Breakfast
938 Center St.
Douglas, Michigan
http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com
800-838-1246

P.S. Peace on Earth

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Sherwood Forest News February 2013

News from the Forest

This year’s getaway for us was the Land of Enchantment (New Mexico). Our travels took us from Petroglyph National Monument (with Native American carvings from the1300s) to the cliff dwellings of Bandolier and Gila, which date back to the 1100s. At Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, we were lucky enough to see 10,000 Canadian snow geese take flight in the early morning dawn. At Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, once home to artist Georgia O’Keefe, we added to our “list of greatest treks” ever, the Kitchen Mesa hike--its naked red-rock landscape and yellow-brown sandstone were just breathtaking. And we ate lots of red and green chili dishes, from Sparky’s in Hatch to The Alien Burger in Roswell. We enjoyed our break and are re-energized and ready to share some tall tales with you. We hope to see you soon!

Things we offer in the off-season (and of course February):

Valentine’s Offer
Let Sherwood Forest Bed & Breakfast be your guide to romance this February! Check out our website packages for romantic ideas, including roses and champagne, chocolates, and massages (or give us a call for suggestions). Barry White has nothing on you! We can also help you with dinner reservations at some of the best restaurants West Michigan has to offer. Cupid will take care of the rest...Our gift to you is 50% off your 2nd night’s stay (Sunday-Thursday nights only, expires March 1). To book a room or for more info, give call us a call at 800-838-1246.

Writers Workshop With Wade Rouse:
Facing Your Fear and Finding Your Voice
May 16-18, 2013
Fear is what stops most people from pursuing their passion and following their dreams. Fear is also what inhibits most authors from writing what calls to them, and keeps them from finding their voice. Fear is, too often, a writer’s worst and final editor. Author Wade Rouse will lead participants through an in-depth discussion on fear, how it is intertwined with writing, and how it nearly stopped him. He will lead participants through an intensive, emotional, and often life-changing writing exercise that links these two vital elements: how you can overcome your fear and find your own unique voice. This 3-day workshop will be held May 16-18 at the Sherwood Forest B&B. For more info, call Keith or Sue at 800-838-1246.

A Culinary Getaway
We’ve designed a culinary weekend you won’t want to miss out on. Festivities kick off with martinis and risotto at a nearby restaurant--we’ll recommend a great place to eat so you don’t have to do the hit and miss thing. After a stress-free evening and gourmet breakfast, it’s off to Saugatuck and Douglas, where you’ll experience some awesome shopping, from hip and cool clothing to kitchen appliances, wines from far away places, spices from the Orient, body butters, antiques & artwork. Then it’s off to join either Chef LaPerriere or Chef Galligan in their kitchen, where you will hone your cooking skills. They will confidently guide you on a culinary journey, integrating their experiences, philosophies, and tricks-of-the-trade, leading you to a successful and rewarding experience in your own kitchen. Their passion for food, thorough explanation of techniques, and easy-going approach to learning will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Available for 2 to 10 people. For more info or to book this package, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Melt Your Stress Away Package
Upon your arrival, you’ll find a beautiful wine and cheese basket with a bouquet of fresh flowers. During your visit you’ll each experience a soothing massage in a style suited just for you and a $30 voucher good toward a romantic dinner at a fine restaurant. Upon your departure (which we’re sure you’ll want to delay as long as possible before returning to the “real world”), a gift from us: a compact disc of relaxing music and an illustrated guide to massage. Price: $235 (does not include room rate). If you wish to have this awaiting your arrival, give us a call at 800-838-1246.

Sherwood Forest Cottage (Pet Friendly)
Looking for a quiet, relaxing place to stay? Our Cottage is perfect for that tranquil getaway or for spending time with friends or family. It sleeps up to 5 people, has a full kitchen, and is only 1/2 block from Lake Michigan and the public beach, and it’s pet friendly. We rent it on a weekly basis in the summer, so give us a call and we can let you know what we have available. For more information, you can visit the cottage website at http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com/COTTAGE.HTML or call us at 800-838-1246.

Bed and Breakfast and Brewery
Looking for a weekend getaway involving brewing your own batch of beer? Sherwood Forest is offering a unique package that includes a 2-night stay plus access to Saugatuck Brewing Company’s brew-on-site facilities. SBC will provide the recipes, from light to dark, over 70 different recipes are available. Summer Wheat to Red Ales to rich Porters. They’ll also provide the ingredients and professional brewing equipment as well as the expertise to take you through the brewing process. You’ll brew at least 11 gallons of beer (sixty 22oz. bottles). If 11 gallons of beer is more than you need, bring a friend or two and split the batch. It takes 3-4 hours to brew your batch and you return in two weeks to bottle and sample your beer, which takes about 2 hours or you can have them bottle it and pick it up (an extra $20). You can even design your own labels using Microsoft Word (for an extra $27). The cost of Bed and Breakfast and Brewery runs from $512 to $695 depending on the time of year and the room. For more info or to book this package, call Keith or Sue at 800-838-1246.

Sherwood Forest Gourmet Dinners (whole-house booking)
Now’s the time to gather up that group of friends or family and plan a visit to Sherwood Forest B&B for one of our awesome Gourmet Dinners. Offered through April, let us wine and dine you. Book the entire B&B for 2 nights or more and we’ll have such a feast catered, your taste palates won’t allow any leftovers. We’ve cornered the market on the best chefs Saugatuck and Douglas have to offer. These epicurean wizards of gastronomic delights will amaze you in what will be your own private dining room, and you’ll have the time of your life. Here are the details: dinner is $50 per person, guests provide their own alcohol, and a 2-night minimum stay is required. You pick the date November through April and we’ll pick the chef. Black out dates are New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s weekends. You can see some of our past gourmet dinner menus at http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com/g-menu-sample.html

Shopping Special
We’ve teamed up with some select stores in Saugatuck/Douglas to bring you fantastic discounts, deals, and freebies, from hip and cool clothing to kitchen appliances, wines from far away places, spices from the Orient, body butters, antiques, and artwork. If you’re looking for that great holiday gift or just want to splurge on yourself this season, all you need to do is book a night or two and then go exploring at some of the most distinctive shops the area has to offer. For more info, give us a call at 800-838-1246 or visit http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com/ATTRACT.HTML

Gift Certificates
Give the most amazing gift on the planet. Imagine receiving a gift certificate from Sherwood Forest B&B! After the recipient jumps up and down and hugs that special someone, he or she will rush to the phone to book a room at Sherwood Forest (just gotta have that fireplace/Jacuzzi suite). Call 800-838-1246, or visit our gift certificate page at http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com/giftcert.html

Here’s what’s happening in and around the area:

Sales of Saugatuck/Douglas
Break the winter blues and put on your shopping shoes ‘cuz many of the stores are offering whopping discounts to get ready for the upcoming season.

Presidents’ Day Weekend Gallery Stroll
The Saugatuck/Douglas art galleries have gotten together for a winter gallery stroll February 16-17. Meander to the different galleries, sample hors d’oeuvres, and sip libations while viewing some of the finest artwork anywhere. From contemporary to traditional, metal sculpture to wood working, there is something for everyone.

An Intriguing Conversation: Tasting & Touring Michigan
Join author Jaye Beeler and photographer Dianna Carroll Burdick on February 21 at 7 p.m. at the SCA as they share their experiences creating the cookbook Tasting and Touring Michigan’s Homegrown Food. The duo traveled throughout Michigan collecting recipes and photographs. Learn about their experience and the challenges faced in their journey to share remarkable places and tastes. This cookbook embraces the surging interest in eating local food, the physical and economic health, and the tasting pleasure of simple, delicious, beautiful food. For more info, visit http://www.sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

Movies
The Saugatuck-Douglas Library movies will be: February 7, The Sea of Grass with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn; and February 21, State of the Union with Van Johnson, Angela Lansbury, and Adolphe Menjou.  Show times at 7 p.m.

Film Studies at the Red Barn
Douglas resident and film concept developer John Hardy will continue with the film series: February 5, The Wild One with Marlon Brando and Lee Marvin; February 12, The Odd Couple with Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau; February 19, Joe Kidd with Clint Eastwood and Robert Duvall; and February 26, Union Station with William Holden and Barry Fitzgerald. At 6:30 p.m. there will be classic TV shows followed by the main features at 7 p.m. For more info, call 269-857-5300 or visit http://www.redbarnsaugatuck.com/schedule.htm
  
Real to Reel Cinema Series
On February 7 at 7 p.m., the SCA will be showing The Invisible War, a groundbreaking investigative documentary about one of America’s most shameful and best kept secrets: the epidemic of rape within the U.S. military. The film paints a startling picture of the extent of the problem today: a female soldier in combat zones is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. The Department of Defense estimates that there were a staggering 19,000 violent sex crimes in the military in 2010. This movie exposes the epidemic, breaking open one of the most under-reported stories of our generation, to the nation and the world. For more info, call 269-857-2399 or visit www.sc4a.org

Red Barn Theatre
The Red Barn Players on February 8-10 and 15-16 will present On the Air: Mystery, a live 1940s style radio show. Three classic mystery dramas will be presented: a 1946 episode  called The Man Who Thought He Was Edward G. Robinson; a 1943 Ellery Queen show called The Circus Train; and a Black Cat mystery from 1950 featuring lady detective Candy Matson - Yukon 28209. For tickets or more info call 269-857-5300 or visit http://www.redbarnsaugatuck.com

Music
Visit the Saugatuck Brewing Company for music: February 2, Last Call Band (60s/70s rock); February 9, Charlie Driscoll (acoustic 60s/70s); February 16, Matt Gabriel (acoustic/originals); and February 23, The Trace (acoustic/originals). For more info, call 269-857-7222 or visit http://saugatuckbrewing.com

Jazz/Blues
There is some awesome music being played at the What Not Inn (a neat little restaurant) every Saturday: February 2, Mary Rademacher; February 9, Entourage; February 16, Christy and Velvet; and February 23, Diego. Show times are 7-11 p.m. plus every Monday Jazz Jam with the What Not Band. For more info, call 269-543-3341 or visit http://www.whatnotinn.com

Mo’ Music
Visit Salt of the Earth in Fennville for music:  February 10, Shari Kane and Dave Steele (acoustic blues); February 13, Seth and May (Michigan’s favorites); February 17, Jonathan Byrd (Americana/country/folk); and February 24, Wisaal (Arabic world music). For more info, call 269-561-7258 or visit http://www.saltoftheearthfennville.com/news_events/music.htm

Sky Hempy Piano Performance Series
The SCA will host three keyboard performances: February 3, Barber Sonata with Mark Valenti; February 17, Ellen Rowe (original jazz and standards); and March 3, James Giles (Romantic generation followed by a Russian medley of short pieces). For more info, visit www.sca4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

L.A. Theatre Works
Next in the line up for the Hope College Great Performance Series is L.A. Theatre Works on February 19-20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Knickerbocker Theatre. They will present Pride and Prejudice in a hybrid form of audio theater and innovative use of technology. A film with world class actors are recorded in state-of-the-art sound, complemented by intricate sound designs and on-stage effects, transforming classic and contemporary stage works into sound-rich audio plays. For more info, visit http://www.hope.edu/arts or call 616-395-7890.

Visiting Writers
Next in the line up for the Hope College Visiting Writers Series on Feb 7 are poet Shane Book and fictionist Mat Johnson. Shane Book’s first collection, Ceiling of Sticks, won the Great Lakes Colleges Association New Writers Award. Johnson is the author of the novels Pym, Drop, and Hunting in Harlem. Readings are held at the Knickerbocker Theatre, downtown Holland at 6:30 p.m. For more info, call 269-395-7620

Exhibitions
Stop in at the SCA through February 28 for Drawn From Nature, The Plant Lithographs of Ellsworth Kelly. Drawn From Nature features plant lithographs spanning four decades of Ellsworth Kelly’s remarkable career. Kelly, one of the most notable living American abstractionists, has built an international reputation around painting, sculpture, and printmaking. This suite of prints comes from the Grand Rapid’s Art Museum’s permanent collection and is particularly intriguing because it demonstrates Kelly’s longstanding fascination with organic form. For more info, call 269-857-2399.

Exhibitions
Through April 14 in the Focus Gallery, The Holland Museum is exhibiting Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered. Buildings are an important part of an urban landscape--they help create a sense of place, distinguishing one town from another, and serve as landmarks and neighborhoods. Together, they provide the backdrop before which the life of the town plays out. Lost Holland seeks to remind us of some of the downtown buildings that are no longer standing and to showcase buildings that have been reused. For more info, call 888-200-9123 or visit http://www.hollandmuseum.org/hollandmuseum.asp

Books
Lizard Cage by Karen Connelly
The kind of book that you just want to grab the next person you see and say, you must read this! Outstanding story of a devout Buddhist named Teza who is sentence to 20 plus years solitary confinement in a Burmese Prison Camp. Beautiful story, well written. Connelly gives vivid descriptions of characters that make for gripping reading. You can purchase or order this book at the Singapore Bank Bookstore in Saugatuck (269-857-3785).

Honorable Mentions
Feb 2-3, Sales of Saugatuck and Douglas.
Feb 7, Visiting Writer Series, Shane Book and Mat Johnson, Hope College
Feb 12,  Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras Parade 7 p.m., Douglas
Feb 14, Valentines Day
Feb 19-20, LA Theatre Works, Hope College GPS, Holland
Mar 3, Sky Hempy Keyboard Series, james Giles, SC4A, Saugatuck
Mar 3, Music , Salt of the Earth, Timothy Monger/Drew Nelson, Fennville
Mar 9, Music, Janis Ian, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck
Mar 10, Music , Salt of the Earth, Drive South/Jason Dennie, Fennville
Mar 16, St Patricks Day Festival
Mar 17, Music , Salt of the Earth, AnDro, Fennville
Mar 20, First Day of Spring
Mar 20 Music , Salt of the Earth, Rachel Davis, Fennville
Mar 24, Music , Salt of the Earth, Lipbone Redding, Fennville
Mar 26, Visiting Writer Series, Mark Winegardner, Hope College
Mar 26, Passover
Mar 31, Easter
Mar 31, Music , Salt of the Earth, Lincoln Country Process, Fennville
April 1-6, Movie, Amour, Knickerbocker, Holland
April 2, Emerson String Quartet, Hope College GPS, Holland
April 18, Visiting Writer Series, Ed Hirsch, Hope College
April 21, Lord Admiral of the Douglas Navy’s Birthday 

From the Sherwood Forest Files:

Mesa Theresa and Taos Pete’s Green Chile Salsa Recipe

We were on the mesa, across the gorge of the Rio Grande., outside of Taos. Trekking through the Carson National Forest, we came upon two artists who had come to call this section of the Land of Enchantment their home. They welcomed us, shared wine, homemade bread smoked with Pinon with local goat cheese.  Throughout the next two days we spoke of many things. The Elk that roamed the forest, the vistas of more than 100 miles. The Milky Way, which lit up the night sky complete with shooting stars. We also talked of Green Chili’s in particular; of which New Mexico is know for. We were then gifted with some of the best salsa (along with a great buffalo burger) that we’ve tasted since before the Spanish arrived. They share, we share as we are all in it together.

Ingredients
three green chili’s med heat
one green jalapeño pepper med heat
one green poblano pepper med heat
one tomatillo
one sweet onion, peeled, and sliced in half
two tablespoons olive oil
two large garlic cloves
two tablespoons cilantro leaves
one-quarter teaspoon table salt
sprinkle of ground black pepper
one tablespoon lime juice
one-quarter cup water

Assembly
1) Split the peppers in half lengthwise, remove stems and seeds. Leave in the veins because that's where the heat resides. Place them on the grill over medium direct heat, skin side down, until the skin blackens and blisters.. When the skin is black, put the peppers in a bowl and cover so they will steam. The steam will help loosen the skin. After about 5 minutes, open the bowl and when the peppers are cool enough to handle, slip into rubber gloves (this is important) and peel off the skins. If a little char remains, don't sweat it amigo. If you work bare handed, wash thoroughly with soap and avoid touching any moist part of your body, or your lovers (also important).

2) While the peppers are grilling, put the onions on the face down until they have nice grill marks. Roll over and grill until the round side is charred. Discard the burned layer. While the onions are grilling, cut the tomatillo in half and roll around on the grill until soft, but don't let it burn.

3) Coarsely chop the peppers, onions, and tomatillo. Chop the garlic fine or mash it in a garlic press and keep the separate from the other ingredients. Warm the oil over medium high heat in a frying pan, add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes, just enough to soften it. Add the peeled peppers, onions, tomatillos, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to lean over the pan--seriously.

4) Add water and cook until it is mostly evaporated and the salsa is getting thick.

5) Dump the whole thing into a blender, add the limejuice and cilantro, and pulse until it is a pulp, but not quite smooth. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, cilantro, and juice to your preference. If you want it hotter, a few splashes of green hot sauce will do the job. You can put this in a clean jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Hope to see you soon!

Keith & Sue
Sherwood Forest Bed & Breakfast
938 Center St.
Douglas, Michigan
http://www.sherwoodforestbandb.com
800-838-1246

P.S. Peace on Earth

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