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Steve’s Grill in DeMotte, Indiana: Family Dining Done Right

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Steve's Grill: DeMotte, Indiana

Steve’s Grill is the brand spankin’ new place to eat in DeMotte, Indiana.

Remember Mike’s Kitchen (the town staple for what seemed like decades)? And then Hometown Grill after that? Don’t worry–Steve’s Grill may have taken the location, but it introduces a great new feel and a fantastic homemade menu!

DeMotte, Indiana: Steve’s Grill

Large menus with a lot of variety make me nervous. It usually means “frozen” and that means it’s not going to be included on little Indiana. Going out to eat, well, I expect a little more!

However, our server at Steve’s Grill assured me that “nothing was frozen.” I instantly cheered and poured over the menu with a renewed sense of purpose.

Breakfast is served all day at Steve’s Grill (which I love!), but more than that you’ll find various entrees, sandwiches, salads, and then some. Changing specials round out the offerings.

Steve’s Grill Menu

Steve's Grill: DeMotte, Indiana

The special of the day while we were there may have been frog legs (not kidding) but I, very much a creature of habit, ordered a Reuben Sandwich.

Kid #1 got French Toast, Kid #2 wanted “Eggies!” and hubby settled on the Philly Style Steakburger–our server’s recommendation. He is a fan of a good Philly!

We all dug in. For starters? Those fries are good. Oh my. We were all pleased with our order. I am happy to say that this Indiana mom and pop restaurant did a very nice Reuben Sandwich.

Go There

Steve's Grill: DeMotte, Indiana Reuben Sandwich

It’s the new hot spot in this Indiana town! I’m pretty sure the whole town turned out for this one.

Save room for dessert. But, you know, this wouldn’t be little Indiana if I didn’t torture you by making you wait for the story on that!

Just don’t forget to tell ‘em that little Indiana sent you!

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Find Steve’s Grill images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Steve’s Grill
700 N Halleck Street
DeMotte, Indiana 46310
219.987.2431

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Rensselaer, Indiana: Schmidy’s Pizza Palace

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Rensselaer, Indiana: Schmidy's Pizza Palace

Schmidy’s Pizza Palace is the new pizza place in Rensselaer, Indiana.

For reasons I cannot altogether fathom, Rensselaer attracts pizza shops like a fly to honey. I don’t understand it–but I have to say I like it!

Schmidy’s Pizza Palace in Rensselaer, Indiana

This newest addition, Schmidy’s Pizza Palace has taken up residence in what was once known as Jamie’s Cafe.

Taking a cue from the original casual vibe, Schmidy’s also keeps it low-key.

The walls are decorated with sports memorabilia from the various local teams, like Saint Josephs College and the Rensselaer Central School Corporation mascot, The Bombers.

Now that is a fun way to exhibit a bit of local flair!

Schimdy’s Pizza Palace Menu

Rensselaer, Indiana: Schmidy's Pizza Palace

You’ll find more than locally-oriented wall decor: this is a fantastic menu. More than just pizza, you’ll find sandwiches, salads, and an assortment of sides at this Jasper County pizza place.

Hubs and I were thrill to see a Chicken Alfredo Pizza that had Broccoli on it! I know that sounds so strange but, many years ago, hubs was going through the Naval Nuclear Power School near Charleston, South Carolina.

There was a wonderful mom and pop pizza shop there that got us hooked on it–and we could never find anything else like it.

Until now. I guess even then I preferred the mom and pop restaurants!

Go There

Rensselaer, Indiana: Schmidy's Pizza Palace

Schmidy’s Pizza Palace has very good pizza. I’m impressed with the choices at this Indiana town parlor!

Plan ahead if you want the Stuffed Crust Pizza. It takes 45 minutes! I’m sure it’s worth it–that was good pizza (and loaded cheese fries)!

Let me know your favorite menu item in the comments below.

Find Schmidy’s Pizza Palace images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Schmidy’s Pizza Palace
1451 N. McKinley Avenue
Rensselaer, Indiana 47978
219.866.4001

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Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana: Get the Pizza

Jessica Nunemaker — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana

I had heard that Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana dishes out the best pizza in Jasper County from more than one source.

After a tip like that, little Indiana had to give it a try and made the trek to tiny Kniman, Indiana!

Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana

Since this is a bar, you must be 21 or older to enter. But, with my horrid allergy to tobacco, hubs went in to pick up our order. My hero!

He came out smelling like an ash tray–but carrying one of the most delicious pizzas I have ever had!

Seriously, this pizza was a masterpiece.

Kniman Bar and Grill Pizza

Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana

We didn’t get any weird toppings. Heck, this mom and pop shop wouldn’t have offered them anyway.

But this pizza was so good–it didn’t need anything other than sauce and cheese! Well, that’s what Kid #2 and I had, anyway. Hubs and Kid #1 shared a half and half pizza.

Half Sausage and half Supreme. We all agreed that this pizza most definitely ranks in the top ten of all time!

Indiana Pizza

Kniman Bar and Grill in Kniman, Indiana

I appreciate a crust with a fair bit of browned bubbling cheese.

I like a tasty sauce and a crust that doesn’t resemble frozen pizza–or chain pizza parlors. This place? Rocked it.

Kniman Bar and Grill fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. It passed the next day cold pizza for breakfast test!

Find Kniman Bar and Grill and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Kniman Bar and Grill
4766 W 900 N
Kniman (Wheatfield), Indiana
219.956.3008

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Steffens Jewelry in Rensselaer, Indiana: Put a Ring on It

Jessica Nunemaker — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Steffens Jewelry Store in Rensselaer, Indiana

If you think shopping for quality jewelry means a trip to the mall, I’ve got a few words for you: Steffens Jewelry in Rensselaer, Indiana.

When was the last time you experienced a friendly browsing experience while shopping for jewelry?

Steffens Jewelry in Rensselaer, Indiana

There are rows and rows and rows of sparkling diamonds. More than just diamonds, however–there’s rows and rows of all sorts of other shining loveliness!

Sterling silver, titanium, tungsten, stones of all kinds–well, you’ll find them here at Steffens Jewelry. Sure, the dazzling diamonds in this family-owned business are stunning. But what gets me every time? The estate jewelry!

I love things that have a history–even my wedding band has the initials and year of a couple from 1930 on it. Steffens Jewelry has a phenomenal selection (i.e. things I’d love to wear!) of estate jewelry in all sizes, shapes, and colors.

Indiana Jewelry Store

Rensselaer, Indiana: Steffens Jewelry -- Repairs in Progress

Small town or not, there’s a whole lot to love about Steffens Jewelry. Not only is it a family business, but Roger repairs jewelry himself!

As a registered watchmaker, jewelry, and diamond-setter, Roger is able to do repairs in-store.

Roger and his wife, Vicki purchased the family business back in 1986. You could say they know their stuff!

For 55 years Steffens Jewelry has been Rensselaer’s hometown jeweler.

A Rensselaer Staple

Rensselaer, Indiana: Steffen's Jewelry Store

Since they buy gold, diamonds, and coins, the inventory is always changing–and is so much fun to browse.

Steffens Jewelry has all the sparkly, shiny pretty things you’d expect at a big city jewelry store–but with the friendliness and prices you’d expect from a small Indiana town!

You’ll never think “mall” when it comes to fine jewelry again.

Go There

This is a name you can trust. You won’t want to miss this Jasper County treasure! Just make sure to tell ‘em that little Indiana sent you.

Find Steffens Jewelry images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr Photostream.

Steffens Jewelry
217 West Washington Street
Rensselaer, Indiana 47978
219.866.8781

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Prairie’s Edge in Rensselaer, Indiana: The Outdoor Experts

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Rensselaer, Indiana: Prairies Edge Bird Feeder

little Indiana had been told that Prairie’s Edge in Rensselaer, Indiana is an incredible retail shop.

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from bustling downtown Rensselaer, once I stepped inside–I could see they were right!

Prairie’s Edge in Rensselaer, Indiana

Once the site of a car dealership, this large building has been home to Prairie’s Edge–”the outdoor experts”–for several years.

Pokin’ around the shop a bit…I have to agree!

Feed the birds with a variety of bulk birdseed? Check. Outfit your horse? Check. Find a pair of Cowgirl Tuff jeans and boots in every color to tromp around in the great outdoors a bit more easily? Check.

Animal Headquarters

Rensselaer, Indiana: Prairie's Edge Bulk Pet Treats

For folks like me who lack a horse–they do have a room full of dog and cat supplies and even bulk birdseed!

Get a load of that shiny, sparkling birdfeeder. How styling is that?

In this Jasper County shop your furry friends aren’t left out.

Top quality pet food, treats, toys, bed. You won’t need to set foot inside a big box pet shop again, not when you find yourself in this great Indiana town!

Cowgirl Up

Rensselaer, Indiana: Prairie's Edge Cowgirl Boots

Need a pair of boots for the ball, Cinderella?

Prairie’s Edge has a whole wall of boots! From kids to adults, there are different colors and patterns. Can you go wrong with pink cowgirl boots? I think not!

There’s clothing here, too–and jeans. I couldn’t help but notice the flashy belt buckles. Outfit complete.

Go There

For your furry friends, the great outdoors, or just yourself and the kids, you can find it all at Prairie’s Edge.

Don’t forget to tell them that little Indiana sent you. Shop smart–support small business!

Find Prairie’s Edge images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr Photostream.

Prairie’s Edge
919 N McKinley Avenue
Rensselaer, Indiana 47978
219.866.5613

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Jim’s Cafe Images from DeMotte, Indiana

Jessica Nunemaker — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:43 +0000

Jim’s Cafe in DeMotte, Indiana was so good! You know I can’t resist a toasty warm Reuben Sandwich.

More than sandwiches, Jim’s Cafe has a small wall of coffee. We saw flavors ranging from French Vanilla to Luck of the Irish.

I figured you might want to see the delicious you are in for at this comfortable Indiana town shop. Just be forewarned–the following images may result in a road trip!

Jim’s Cafe Images from DeMotte, Indiana

Demotte, Indiana: Jim's Cafe

See Jim’s Cafe images and other pictures in DeMotte, Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Jim’s Cafe
616 15th Street
DeMotte, Indiana 46310
219.987.7995

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DeMotte, Indiana: Jim’s Cafe to Kickstart Your Day

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:00:13 +0000

Demotte, Indiana: Jim's Cafe

little Indiana hit the road and head for DeMotte, Indiana or, more specifically, to Jim’s Cafe!

Well, let’s just say that in this small Indiana town shop, there’s plenty more than just coffee.

Jim’s Coffee Shop in DeMotte, Indiana

When you take a step inside, you will smell the lovely, lovely smell of coffee–and food!

Jim’s Coffee Shop serves the breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowd. Which was a good thing because little Indiana (and family) were hungry!

They’ve got a nice menu over at Jim’s Cafe. It was an easy choice for Kid #1 and #2 (hot dog and grilled cheese). Hubs and I waffled.

Demotte, Indiana: Jim's Cafe Reuben Sandwich

Food at Jim’s

The sandwiches sounded so good! Hubs finally went with the Patty Melt. But as for me? Well, they did have a Reuben Sandwich on there!

I chose the Onion Rings, Hubs went for fries. I’d recommend the Onion Rings–crispy goodness. Man those hit the spot.

Of course the kids enjoyed what they ordered. But what haven’t I mentioned yet? The coffee!

Indiana Coffee Shop

Demotte, Indiana: Jim's Cafe Frozen Mocha

Jim’s Cafe has quite the assortment of coffees and teas. There are so many yummy-sounding flavors!

You may remember that I didn’t actually enjoy coffee until after Kid #2 was born–and I only like it black. Even so, there’s a lot here that I could really get into.

While I didn’t actually get coffee personally, I did drink quite a bit of the Frozen Mocha that hubs ordered.

He stated, and I agree, that it is the best Frozen Mocha he has ever had. Ever! So take that, big box coffee!

Go There

Here’s just more proof that you can find everything you need in a small town. You just needed to know where to look! Jim’s Cafe was very good–and a place I wouldn’t mind returning.

See Jim’s Cafe images and other pictures in DeMotte, Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Jim’s Cafe
616 15th Street
DeMotte, Indiana 46310
219.987.7995
Monday – Tuesday: 6 AM – 3 PM
Wednesday – Thursday: 6 AM – 7 PM
Friday: 6 AM – 8 PM
Saturday: 6 AM – 2 PM
Sunday: Closed

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The Neighborhood Circus and Block Party Images

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:00:24 +0000

Summer is gone in our small Indiana town–but it has definitely not been forgotten!

I will be relying on warm Summer memories to get me through the hardest parts of the Winter. These are from our neighborhood block party and circus. It’s an annual event that pretty much screams, “Summer!” to me and mine.

The Neighborhood Block Party and Circus Images

Neighborhood Block Party and Circus

Find more Neighborhood Block Party and Circus images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

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Rensselaer, Indiana: Clauss Bakery and Cafe

Jessica Nunemaker — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:00:02 +0000

Clauss Bakery and Cafe in Rensselaer, Indiana

Follow the scent of pastry goodness to Clauss Bakery and Cafe in Rensselaer, Indiana!

Rensselaer, Indiana Bakery

Open at 5 AM, farmers in the off-season congregate. little Indiana and family, however, didn’t arrive quite that early! We were on the hunt for donuts and coffee–and lots of it!

Luckily for us, Clauss Bakery and Cafe had plenty of them. Long Johns, Bear Claws, Danishes, coffee cake, Cinnamon Twists, and more, well, we took our time in deciding.

I went with a Blueberry Donut, Hubs had a Cinnamon Twist, and Kid #1 had a few Doughnut Holes.

Indiana Bakery

Clauss Bakery and Cafe in Rensselaer, Indiana Cookies

Like any good Indiana bakery, they’ve got more than doughnuts and pastries! We browsed the glass cases, drooling over the goodies inside.

Kid #1 was all about the cookies. What fun seasonal cookie designs!

That day they had smiley faces, but I’ve heard that they change their design to go along with the season.

Word on the street has it that this is the go-to place in town for cakes. Don’t'cha just love a good bakery?

Breakfast and Lunch

Clauss Bakery and Cafe in Rensselaer, Indiana Doughnuts

Since we arrived a bit late, we were able to see Clauss Bakery and Cafe get ready for the lunch crowd. This Indiana town establishment boasts a soup and salad bar.

I’ve had the pleasure of having a Mushroom and Sausage Soup from them. Creamy and delicious. Wow was it good!

I’d love to make it back and check out what’s for lunch! Maybe even bring home some of their famous soup for my family.

I should have grabbed a bag of rolls–they looked so good! But you know me. I was distracted by all the sweet stuff! Next time, next time.

See Clauss Bakery and Cafe images and other pictures in Indiana on my Flickr photostream.

Clauss Bakery and Cafe
110 W Washington St.
Rensselaer, Indiana 47978
219.866.7970

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Indiana Wind Turbines Part 2: Wind Power Questions Answered!

Jessica Nunemaker — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Indiana Wind Turbines

Indiana Wind Turbines have taken up large blocks of land along I-65 and beyond. After my first article detailing these majestic mammoths, I received emails and comments from little Indiana readers who just had to know more!

Your burning wind turbine questions have been answered, once again, by my hubby, Jeremy Nunemaker.

Indiana Wind Farms

Is it farm-able? If someone leases land to a wind turbine company, can they still farm it?
Absolutely. The footprint of a wind turbine, aka the base, takes up no more space than your average living room!

How noisy are these? If one goes up near my home, will I still be able to sleep at night?
Noise levels of modern wind turbines depends on details such as size, height, age, etc. As far as large commercial wind turbines, such as what you see along I-65, the most common noise is the whistle of the blades passing.

This makes sense when you realize the tips of those blades can be traveling around 300mph, however the sound produced is less than the noise produced by traffic passing a typical home.

Indiana Wind Farms: Turbines Near I65

How big and small are Indiana wind turbines?

Wind turbines range in size from small units that power single appliances such as a cell phone charger and are only as big as your hand to larger units that help power your home and can be the size of a sofa.

There are also commercial wind turbines that range from 40-50 ft tall all the way to the “latest and greatest” which are coming close to four hundred feet tall.

There are many companies out there that provide smaller wind turbines that help power residential homes or other small scale applications. An internet search for residential wind turbines would give you a list of these small turbine companies.

Are they only practical or available for sale in areas like Northwest Indiana with wide open flat space?
Wind turbines are applicable over a wide range of terrain, it’s hard to rule out a particular area simply because of its terrain.

Indiana Wind Turbines

Indiana is a good candidate for wind power because it is largely flat and open, however states such as West Virginia also have wind farms because of increased wind speeds present in the mountainous areas. The only way to know is to look into having a wind study done of your area.

You can also look into wind charts compiled in the past by the government. Many of these are dated but are a great place to start your search and help you decide whether or not wind power is an option in your area.

Over time what is the value or cost of energy that they produce compared with the costs of buying them?
In general, the value of a wind turbine is very hard to calculate. Energy production varies greatly due to the available winds for a particular site and therefore affects the value.

Wind Energy in Indiana

It’s a fast growing field and pretty incredible that Hoosiers, especially those in small Indiana towns, are such a crucial part of this green energy source. Do you have new questions? Feel free to ask below!

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