Dana Polman, The Channel Marker, Syracuse

by Courtney Rawlinson | photos by Sue Pais

Since 1994, The Channel Marker has been a lake favorite for many, and the 2006 addition of the Tiki Bar (a tiki-styled hut, including outdoor seating for 125) became a tropical part of that tradition. Most would say The Channel Marker and Tiki Bar is simply ‘the place to be on Wawasee.’ Their menu can fix any empty stomach with a plethora of options that extend from a delicious shareable menu (try the popular ‘Bang Bang Shrimp’) to their most popular burger ‘The Outrigger.’ The menu also offers a variety of seafood options, but just to name a few: Char-Crusted Sea Bass, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Coconut Shrimp, or another popular dish is the Pan-Fried Lake Perch. While the food is delicious, customers also visit to enjoy the water views whilst sipping on ‘Island Treats.’ Among their full bar, a few customer favorites are the rum-based frozen drinks Wawasee Sunset and Swamp Water (these drinks are no joke, folks!). Whether docking your boat for lunch or sitting by the water with a cocktail in-hand, Channel Marker is a spot where guests no longer feel they’re in the Midwest, but instead they get a real taste of paradise. Meet Dana Polman, this month’s ‘Libations’ nominee. Whether visiting by car or boat, come say hello to this bubbly gal at The Channel Marker, on the waters between Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee.

5793 E. Pickwick Dr. Syracuse 574.457.5900 channelmarker.net

The continuous change of customers and conversations is my favorite part. I have heard a lot of life lessons, advice, and crazy stories!

The Channel Marker feels like a slice of paradise right in your backyard. It’s right on the water, there is outdoor seating with the beautiful weather, and we have great drinks and food!

I really enjoy making rum runners. There are a lot of ways you can customize them, and they always taste great.

The lake to me feels like a vacation at home. You are surrounded by all your friends and family in such a beautiful and comfortable setting.

I love when regulars come in! It is like catching up with your friends after a day at work. You become close and they turn into real life friends.

My outlook on life is to focus on working at a place I love, staying close to my friends and family, and always trying to have new experiences.

My customers have told me that I feel like family to them and that really meant a lot to me. I take a lot of pride in my job and put all my energy into making my customers have a good experience every time they visit.

I really enjoy working in the service industry with the public. It is very rewarding to have customers walk away saying their day has been made better by coming here for a meal!