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DOWAGIAC – Two local musicians will stroll in and out of specialty shops in downtown Dowagiac this Saturday, serenading visitors with music to enhance their shopping experience.

The entertainment is being presented Saturday from Noon to 3 p.m. during this community’s Spring Open House Weekend April 19-20.  

Organized by Vickie Phillipson, owner of Cottage Gallery, and Claudia Zebell, owner of Rosy Tomorrows, Spring Open House is being underwritten by our friends and associates at Family Fare, Garage Doors Plus More and Honor Credit Union.  “With their help, we are excited to feature activities on Saturday afternoon to engage the public.” Phillipson said.

Local business leaders and musicians Jeff Neumann of Farm Bureau Insurance and John Seculoff of Edward Jones will stroll in and out of host specialty shops.  Both men are active in volunteer organizations throughout the community.

“One of the things I admire about Dowagiac is the effort put forth to highlight our local businesses,” John said.  “When asked if I would be part of this weekend’s events, I didn’t hesitate.  I’m truly excited to be involved, as I represent the city I love dearly.”

As a solo acoustic artist, John performs at least once a month, with appearances taking him to six different states.  He has been the featured artist for Northeast Indiana NPR’s “Meet the Music.”  John has also had the opportunity to collaborate with award-winning Nashville songwriters and record at the legendary Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  

His band, Moderate Pain, is based out of Northeast Indiana.  It has appeared twice at Decatur’s Midwest Fest and at events in Kalamazoo and Dowagiac.

 Jeff has played music and provided leadership groups and special events since 1984. Specializing in praise and worship, he has performed in dozens of area churches and volunteered in multiple venues, providing entertainment, ministry and inspiration.

Together Jeff and John perform monthly under the name “The Salesmen” at The Timbers of Cass County, where they enjoy enriching the lives of others with music, humor and inspiration.  For their downtown performance, visitors can expect to hear music from The Beatles, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Billy Joel and Sting, along with contemporary favorites.

Downtown visitors Saturday will also see eight live window mannequins take center stage from Noon to 2 p.m. at specialty shops along Front Street, including Caruso’s Candy Kitchen, Cottage Gallery, The Marshall Shoppe, Oh My – Old Made New, Rosy Tomorrows, Vincent J. Jewelers and Who Knew? Consignment.  

A children’s Princess Tea Party will be held at Caruso’s, hosted by the Miss Dowagiac Scholarship Pageant and its Court of Honor.  

“Thanks to our corporate sponsors, the interactive event, which begins at 1:30 p.m., is a free presentation,” Phillipson said.  

Advance registration was limited to 20 children, who will receive a tiara and enjoy cookies, storytime and photos with Miss Dowagiac. 

Downtown businesses hosting Spring Open House Weekend include: Bow Wow Bakery & Bath, Caruso’s, Cottage Gallery, Deck the Halls, Flowers by Anna, The Marshall Shoppe, Oh My – Old Made New, Olympia Books, Rosy Tomorrows, Vincent J. Jewelers and Who Knew? Consignment. 

“The weekend promotion that opens Friday provides specialty shops with the opportunity to showcase their new spring and summer merchandise,” Phillipson said.  “Visitors will enjoy drawings, sweet treats and giveaways.  On Saturday, as activities gear up for the community, guest vendors will join us downtown.”

Phillipson said shop owners and our corporate sponsors are pleased to feature this special weekend as they kick off the 2024 tourist season and welcome milder weather.