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Serving Niles: Local Churches Offer Worship, Community
By Gina Karasek

Featured In the 2017 Greater Niles Area Chamber of Commerce Business & Tourism Guide

The very presence of more than 50 churches, temples and places of worship in the Four Flags area expresses the diversity and level of acceptance and tolerance of this area rich in a spiritual heritage.

From the first French missionary that came to the Niles area in the 1680s to the founding of one of the oldest Catholic Churches in Michigan in 1847, churches of all denominations provided comfort and community to each successive wave of immigrants that made the Four Flags Area home.Most of the churches in the Four Flags area offer more than just Sunday service, By joining a church or religious organization, people are sharing faith, getting to know fellow parishioners and working to improve their church community:

At Relevant Church in downtown Niles, Pastor Muta Mwenya fosters a community experience. Relevant lead Pastor Muta Mwenya moved to Niles with wife Christine in 2014 after serving in both volunteer and staff roles in his former church.Muta and his wife wanted to start a life-giving church where people would be propelled to love Jesus, love people and make a difference in the world around them.

"At Relevant Church, we invite people to come as they are," the pastor said. "Around Relevant Church we have a saying, 'no perfect people allowed.' Nobody is perfect. You don't have to dress up or feel the pressure to be perfect here because we invite you to just be you. Every Sunday parishioners gain experience living with purpose and serving with great passion because that's what Jesus did."

Relevant Church offers services every Sunday morning, with dynamic music and teachings from the Bible and verse, Different series offer Relevant Church attendees insights and inspiration, and a chance to delve deeper into their faith and explore it. Through service

opportunities and scripture study Re-Groups, parishioners can gather and connect with

others spiritually. In addition to church for adults, at Niles Area Churches, youngsters can join some of the youth groups which not only offer fun activities, but also reinforce religious and family values.

Some of the religious communities in the Four Flags Area are rooted in traditional depth, and others have arisen to respond to an Ever changing world.

St. Mary's of the Immaculate Conception traces its foundations back to Indian missions in the 1600s. Its present building was finished and dedicated to St. Mary's in 1870. The later construction of a gothic tower and recent interior work have further increased the beauty of the church.

St. Mary's has several means of serving the community spiritually and corporally in addition to Holy Mass, including a Christian service center, one-to-one care ministry,

confession and adoration weekly.

Another recent addition to Niles' religious community is Summit Church. Like Relevant, Summit strives to remind both parishioners and the community it serves of new beginnings. Summit's parishioners are of a Christian Missionary Church denomination and moved to a new location on West River Road in 2014. The new location has allowed the

church to expand its parking and install soccer fields and play equipment, which is important

for community engagement.

From churches to the community and fellowship they foster, Niles is thriving.

Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange: Bridging Smiles and Community Service After a Decade of Impact
By Gina Karasek
Published in the February 2024 Issue of Granger Gazette

In the heart of Michiana, the Hazelwood family's journey of love and loss has given rise to a beacon of hope and healing. Dr. Angela “Angie” Hazlewood Murat, DDS, a young South Bend dentist, lost her battle with cancer in 2011. This program, named in her honor, embodies Dr. Angie's desire to assist those unable to afford dental care. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, "Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange" (DADHE) stands as a remarkable nonprofit entity in the community today. Driven by the enduring memory of their beloved daughter, the Hazelwoods have forged this organization as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community commitment. Their vision ensures that even a decade after Angie's departure, community members in need can have access to vital dental care.

Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange is not just a nonprofit; it's a community-driven initiative designed to facilitate access to dental care for those who often find themselves on the margins. The program operates on a simple yet powerful principle: connecting volunteer dental professionals with patients in need. Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange provides essential dental treatments including urgent care, pain relief, and necessary procedures. It's a lifeline for those facing dental issues but are unable to afford the necessary care. In return for the essential care provided, patients engage in community service, creating a sustainable, pay-it-forward cycle of goodwill. With 25 dentists regularly volunteering their services and over 500 dental treatments provided, DADHE stands as a valuable resource to the community.

The foundation of DADHE's mission lies in its unique program design. Before receiving dental care, patients go through a thoughtful process:

1. Contacting Dr. Angie’s Program: Reach out to initiate the process. Those interested can call or text 574-387-7744 to arrange a meeting to enroll.
2. Orientation: Attend an orientation to confirm eligibility, receive oral health tools, complete a medical history form, and understand rights and responsibilities.

3. Emergency Exam: An initial appointment is scheduled for an emergency dental exam.

4. Community Service: Patients then engage in community service for an approved non-profit.

5. Treatment Plan: Once community service is completed, appointments are made for extractions, fillings, comprehensive exams with X-rays, and a dental treatment plan.

At the core of DADHE is a commitment among community dentists to join forces in serving individuals with the greatest and most urgent needs, irrespective of their ability to pay. The program ensures an equitable distribution of the load, preventing any single dentist from bearing an undue burden. This collaborative effort not only enhances the impact but fosters a sense of shared responsibility for the community's well-being.

Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange stands as a living tribute to the enduring love for Angie Hazelwood and the Hazelwood family's commitment to making a positive impact on the community. Through their innovative approach to dental care, DADHE is creating a ripple effect of smiles, kindness, and community service that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Michiana for years to come. As Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange celebrates its ten-year milestone, your support can help them continue their mission. Consider making a tax-deductible donation to increase access to dental care for underserved populations.

Mail a Check:
Dr. Angie's Dental Health Exchange

P.O. Box 6142

South Bend, IN 46660-6142

Or
via Secure PayPal Donation on their website: drangies.com/get-involved

Love is in the Air: Valentine's Day Delights for Couples and Singles in Granger, Indiana
By Gina Karasek

Published in the February 2024 Granger Gazette

"Love is in the Air: Valentine's Day Delights for Couples and Singles in Granger, Indiana"

Love is in the air, enveloping couples in warm embraces and singles savoring the joys of solo celebration. As our gift to you, we've curated a delightful collection of activity ideas, embodying the spirit of love for both couples and singles.

If the idea of crafting a love potion intrigues you, Bar Louie of Granger has something special in store. On Wednesday, February 7th, they will host a Valentine's Mixology Class. Your $60 ticket includes access to a seasoned master mixologist who will guide you in creating delicious Valentine's Day-inspired cocktails. "The event promises four styles of cocktails for guests," said Bar Louie General Manager Andrew Philips. "The mixers will range from a sweeter cream-based martini to a whiskey-based libation, alongside delectable light appetizers."

This exclusive experience, open to individuals aged 21 and older, promises an evening of refined taste and romantic libations. Secure your spot on Eventbrite.com.

Rooted Balance Massage in the heart of Granger offers an oasis of rejuvenation for those yearning for a more serene setting and some self-care. Certified Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) Melissa Karasek skillfully addresses tension, guiding you towards profound relaxation. Karasek specializes in sports and medical massage, catering to health concerns or injuries, but also welcomes those seeking pure relaxation and pampering. Online booking is available at rootedbalancemassage.com.

If your heart desires delicious cuisine, Villa Macri Italian Restaurant in Granger beckons for a romantic Valentine's Day. Indulge in food and drink specials, featuring Chef Gerard's prideful creations, exquisite homemade pasta, heavenly gelato and an extensive wine list. Linen-draped candlelit tables and enchanting decor create the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration of love. Make reservations by calling 574-277-7273.

And finally, put your love into motion at the Valentine's Day Singles Mixer at Palais Royale, downtown South Bend. Co-hosted by local dating consulting firm, WhoU in partnership with South Bend Latin Dance, this event promises an unforgettable evening for Michiana singles. The night begins at 7:00 p.m. with low-pressure introductions, allowing you to meet a variety of wonderful singles. But that's not all – get ready to spice things up with a beginner Latin dance lesson led by Bridget Hardy of South Bend Latin Dance.

“We are excited to bring Michiana together and share our love of the sensual and colorful world that is Latin dance in a low-pressure, relaxed environment.” Said Hardy. Early registration is encouraged, Tickets are $30 until 2/14 at 2:00 pm. Please note, no tickets will be available at the door.

Students are Onboard with Nonfiction:
A small article on the Creative Nonfiction Class Excursion to Grand Haven, MI.
I wrote for the GVSU InWriting Newsletter as a contributing writer during my time as a student at the University.

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