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DOWAGIAC — The Dowagiac Union High School Jazz Band is among the musicians headlining downtown’s Extended Hours Holiday Shopping Event on Thursday, Dec. 12.

Band members will be joined by Jolly ‘Ole St. Nick, along with vocalists Mary and Jeff Neumann.

The fourth-annual Extended Hours Holiday Shopping Event, hosted by downtown specialty shops, was organized by Vickie Phillipson, owner of Cottage Gallery.  The evening of music, merriment and personalized shopping runs from 5 to 7 p.m.

“We are delighted to host this special night of shopping beneath the holiday lights of our central business district,” Phillipson said.  “Customers will enjoy personalized service at each of our specialty shops, some of which will offer savings, treats and beverages.”

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

Mary is an accomplished pianist and piano teacher.  For the downtown holiday promotion, Jeff will provide accompaniment on guitar.

Under the direction of Benjamin VanRoekel, members of the jazz band will bring holiday music to the streets, as they stroll in and out of downtown shops.

“At Cottage Gallery,  we love supporting our fine arts students,” Phillipson said.  “Showcasing them during the holiday season is now tradition.”

Phillipson encouraged families to bring their children to see Santa, who will be available for photos from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Venue 132, located next to Caruso’s Candy Kitchen.  At 6:30 p.m. Santa will then join musicians on the street, as they stroll in and out of businesses.

The special night of merriment also features a workshop, making fresh evergreen centerpieces at Venue 132.  The hands-on class from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. will be presented by Flowerfield Farmstead, a small-scale flower and vegetable farm in Three Rivers. 

The cost of the class is $65, which includes refreshments, fresh evergreens and adornments.  Advance registration is required by calling 269.271.6329 or by visiting FlowerfieldFarmstead.com.  Space is limited.

Specialty shops participating in the Dec. 12 extended hours promotion include: The Baker’s Rhapsody, Bow Wow Bakery & Bath, Caruso’s Candy Kitchen, Cottage Gallery, Deck the Halls, Flowers by Anna, The Marshall Shop, Oh My Old Made New,  Olympia Books, Rosy Tomorrows, Venue 132, Vincent J. Jewelers, Who Knew? Consignment and Yarn on Front.

Phillipson said the Dec. 12 evening of music, merriment and shopping can be wrapped up by dining at any one of Dowagiac’s fine and casual dining restaurants, all of which will be open for the event.