By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Edwardsburg Argus
EDWARDSBURG -- Though he was in the food industry before, Mike Schiele of Niles dealt more with waffle irons. The 1986 Niles High School graduate worked previously for Carbon Waffles.
He has a degree from Western Michigan in Business Administration and human Resource, but mike wanted to try his hand at owning his own restaurant.
On a tip from the owner, his friend Nick, of Milano's in Niles, he heard that Big Eddies Pizza in Edwardsburg on M-92 was up for sale.
Now he finds himself up to his elbows in dough, but not the green kind -- yet.
He is hoping the business picks up after he adds lunch delivery of the famous Eddie's sandwiches. He already offers evening delivery.
For now Mike's Pizza Place is open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the week and from 4 to 9 p.m. On weekends the hours are extended. He is closed on Mondays.
His wife Kathy, who works for Modineer in Niles, helps out when Matthew, 8 and Morgan, 3, allow.
Mike kept two part-timers and added two former employees. His brother David, a third grade teacher at Oak Manor, also joins in the fun on the busy Friday nights.
The business also offers discounts to the schools, concession stands and sport teams.
The new menu just coming out will have a reduction in prices and they plan to reintroduce chili and a soup of the day.
They are also experimenting with a crispier crust and the sauce.
The past owner, Jeff Nickerson, has been helpful, as has the original "Big Eddie."
When he isn't busy at the new shop, across from Georgie Boy, Mike likes to golf, hunt and fish.
A new love, though, is helping coaching his son's little league and All-Star baseball teams.
To place an order call (269) 663-5125.