Author: canalman

Side Yard 5870 Sawyer Road, Sawyer, MI

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Side Yard

     Side Yard was established by Cam Mammina.and Alex Cihlar, who envisioned a laid back “back party” atmosphere where locals and visitors alike could feel at home.  The restaurant and bar quickly gained a reputation as the “Cheers of Sawyer” reflecting its friendly vibe and patronage.  It is located across the street from the former Greenbush Brewery

Side Yard

     Concept and Atmosphere           Side Yard was designed with a relaxed, community attic used ethos.  It offers both indoor and outdoor seating , with a spacious shaded patio perfect for gatherings.  Patrons can enjoy lawn games, fire pits, and regular live entertainment, emphasizing  a casual yet engaging environment.  The venue is family and dog friendly, catering to a broad audience s and reinforcing a sense of neighborhood inclusivity.

Side Yard Restaurant

     Culinary and Beverage Experience Side Yards menu, known as the “” Fresh to àDeath” menu, includes a wide variety of globally inspired bar food  such as Thai peanut noodles, falafel salad, and kimchi quesadillas, alongside vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. The beverage selection ranges from craft cocktails to local microbrews, earning praises for creative twists on classic drinks and approachable pricing for canned beers.

Saint Joseph Lighthouses

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Notice the two lighthouses

  The Saint Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lights are a pair of historic, interconnected lighthouses located on Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Saint Joseph River in Saint Joseph, Michigan. Originally established a shore station in 1832 the current pierhead structures were built between 1906 and 1907 and remain famous for their preserved elevated catwalk.
Architectural Highlights and Range System
     The lighthouses  serve as a critical navigation system for vessels entering the river channel
     The Outer Light: A round, 35 foot tall black and white cast iron tower positioned at the very edge of the pier
     The Inner Light: A 57 foot tall white octagonal structure built atop a square fog signal building notable for its bright red roof.
     The range system: By aligning the shorter outer light directly beneath the taller inner light,sailors  can verify that their ship is perfectly on course to enter the channel safely.
    The Catawalk: A 12 foot high elevated steel walkway connects the shore to the towers.  It historically protected keepers from being washed out into the turbulent lake during intense stotms.
 
  
     

Galien River County Park

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     Galien River County Park is a highly rated nature preserve located at 17424 Red Arrow Highwsy, New Buffalo, MI. It features a mix of upland and wetland habitats, highlighted by an elevated canopy walkway, a marsh boardwalk and a 60 foot overlok tower providing a panoramic views of the Galien River valley. 
     It is open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission is free.  Portable restrooms are available near the entrnce

Michigan City Lighthouse Replica

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Michigan City Lighthouse Replica

Michigan City Lighthouse Replica

Michigan City Lighthouse Replica

     The New Buffalo lighthouse replica is a local historical historical monument at 301 Marquette Drive at the entrance to the New Buffalo City Beach where the Galien River meets Lake Michigan.      Historic Landmark.  The structure is a modern small scale replica constructed to honor the maritime  history of the area.      Original Light: Built by the government in 1839, the original lighthouse suffered from severe design flaws, leaking roof and political neglect before  being deactivated in 1859.      The fate: shifting shorelines and severe shoreline erosion completely destroyed the original structure shortly after it was abandoned.      The replica:  built in the mid 1900’s, the current replica  is a compact, unique beach fixture built  with cinder  blocks and vinyl siding rather than the original stone.  It features a white tower topped with a dark lantern room.      Functionality: It features an operational light.  It  is strictly  tribute and is not listed on the official U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Chart.  It remains a highly popular site for photography, sunset strolls and beach goers.