Wabash Valley Living December 2013 Edition

Liv覺ng W

ABASH VALLE

Y

DECEMBER 2013

FREE

LIFE IN ADAMS, JAY & WELLS COUNTIES & NEIGHBORING OHIO COMMUNITIES

Local Christmas Gift Ideas!

a few of our FAVORITE things

SE

E T S AN

?

TA

CR

S

S

AV ING

SECRET SANTA SAVINGS!

Look for the SECRET SANTA SAVINGS Icon in the Ad on Page 38.

When You Shop at the Participating Advertiser This Month, Be Sure to Mention Their Ad in Wabash Valley Living, and Get Secret Savings Available ONLY to Wabash Valley Living Readers!!

Merry Christmas from Everyone at Wabash Valley Living!

NISWONGER 10700 SR 118 S . Van WeRt . OhiO . 45891

BALLET & BROADWAY GIFT LIST PLEASERS!

419-238-NPAC NPACVW.ORG Cinderella The Perfect Gift.

You Choose The Amount.

They Choose The Event.

Call: 419-238-NPAC

CARDINAL CONSTRUCTION ROOFING - SIDING - DECKS WINDOWS - DRYWALL WORK CONCRETE - REMODELING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

FREE ESTIMATES!

Willow Creek Store 5160 W 400 S

Berne, IN 46711

WE HAVE

Candy Supplies & Baking Supplies For All Your Holiday Treats!

Candy Recipes – Ask for a Copy!

HOLIDAY GIFT BASKETS MEATS – CHEESES BULK FOODS – SPICES

322 W 400 S Berne, IN 46711

(260) 703-0046

Open Mon to Fri 8-5, Thurs 8-8, & Sat 8-2

(260) 334-5080

WABASH VALLEY

LIVING www.wabashvalleyliving.com

CONTENTS

Editor................................... Amy M. Orr Contributors..............Sylvia Marbach Ashley Olson Amy Schlichter

DECEMBER 2013

Tara Steffen Holly Wuebker Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy Sharon Roberts

• COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TARA STEFFEN FOTOS •

Vol. 5, No. 12, December 2013 © Wabash Valley Living, 2013. Published monthly since June 2009.

Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission.

Editorial office: 346 U.S. Hwy. 27 North, Berne IN 46711. Call (260)849-2187 for editorial or advertising.

Wabash Valley Living is printed by:

169 S. Jefferson Street, Berne, IN 46711 (877)589-2145 • www.EPGraphics.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 2 Sister’s Garden Adams Memorial Adams Physical Therapy Amy’s Photography Anytime Fitness Arm’s Auto Body Berne Antique Mall Berne Chamber Berne Ready Mix Biggs Property Mgmt Bluffton Tire Bluhm & Reber Brad Alberson Agency Cardinal Construction Century 21 Advance Chain Reaction Classics Plus Closet Update CR Design Crafty Corner CrownPointe D & H Workshop Daniel’s Jewelers Decatur Music N More Decatur Self-Storage E & R Seed Earthen Treasures East of Chicago Edelweiss Floral Engine House Quilt Fabric Store-n-More Faith & Life Books Fort Fitness N More Garden Gallery Gathering House Gersh’s Carpet Helen Woodard’s Hitzer Stove Indiana Pancake House

41 48 10 12 26 10 47 4 43 20 15 29 19 2 4 42 30 7 21 8 13 37 38 31 26 21 15 19 8 4 19 7 10 25 30 34 6 16 9

Indiana Tech Install Insurance Haus Jay Co. Farm Toy Show Joe’s Lighting Just Like New Auto Karen’s Treasures Kellie’s Sweet Shop Lehman-Bixler Eye Liechty Bros.

M.C. Hilty Construction Marla Clauser, Realtor Meadowvale Merlin’s Martin Houses Mr. Planners Niswonger Performing Outdoor Cooking Pizza King of Decatur Reimschisel Ford River Terrace Estates Schwartz Blacksmith Schwartz Mfg. Shaka Shack Sharlette’s Fudgery Simon’s Mfg. Sport Form State Farm Insurance Sudhoff’s Tree Farm Swiss Village Swissland Cheese the homeplace Touch of Country TW Fable Restaurant Velocity Motors Willow Creek Store Willshire Home Furn Wilmen’s Country Store Ya Ya’s Mid-Century to Yager Furniture Zurcher’s Best One Tire

41 14 36 43 18 20 13 15 16 31 42 9 36 28 2 21 25 38 32 21 47 36 35 29 32 30 9 35 16 31 14 45 41 2 32 42 41 45 37

5

Capturing the Moments

11

“The Concrete Statue Place”

17

Warmth Made by Hand

22

CALENDAR OF AREA EVENTS

27

Healthy, Glowing Skin

33

Treats for the Tastebuds

39

The Gift That Glitters

44

FIND FRIEDRICH CONTEST

47

COUPON PAGE

Snapping Family Portraits & Framing Nature’s Art

Locker’s Abounds with Gifts for Any Special Occasion

Cute & Comfy Knit Items for Children & Adults

Laser Treatments, Facials, & Other Pampering

Something for Everyone to Enjoy at the Cupboard

Marking Special Events in Life with Jewelry

BIG

COUPON SAVINGS Page 47!

SCAN THE CODE AND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! We’ll keep you informed about special offers and discounts each month, and you’ll have quick access to any extra content that wasn’t included in the print edition!

MERRY CHRISTMAS from the Engine House!

ENGINE HOUSE QUILT SHOP 164 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana

(260)589-3060 www.enginehousequiltshop.com

10-5 Monday thru Friday 10-3 Saturday

Slideways Quilt Be Sure to See All the New “BLOCKS OF THE MONTH” beginning January 2014!

Ladies: Help Your Family with Their Christmas Shopping...

Fill Out YOUR Christmas Wish List at the Engine House!!

Merry Christmas, One and All...

Remember, Jesus is the Reason for this Season!

Make This Your NEW Home for the Holidays!

Finish Your Shopping in

BERNE, INDIANA! 1422 Carrington Way Berne, Indiana

You’ll find timeless craftsmanship in our

furniture stores and gifts for everyone on your list at our many unique shops.

www.Century21ADV.com www.Century21ADV.com www.Century21ADV.com stronger, bolder, FASTER. faster stronger, bolder, faster SMARTER. BOLDER. SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

stronger, bolder, FASTER. faster SMARTER. BOLDER.

260-589-8474 260-589-8474 260-589-8474

SOLD SOLD SOLD Farms Homes Farms -- Homes Acreage Personal Acreage -- Personal Farms Homes

Purchase Stephen Costlow prints in Berne.

It’s time to visit Berne!

Merry Christmas to all!

www.bernein.com

capturing the moments

SNAPPING FAMILY

PORTRAITS & FRAMING NATURE’S ART Article by Sylvia Marbach Photos by Tara Steffen

F

rom a young age, Tara Steffen was fascinated with art and photography. “I got my first camera when I was seven or eight,” she remembers, “and it was a Holly Hobby camera.”

“He taught me all about light and shadowing, and how to draw. And, that was the basics for photography.

Tara lived in Berne as a child and attended South Adams until she was 14. “I always liked art. I loved Mr. (Ted) Schwartz; he was my favorite teacher.

Tara’s next encounter with a camera was years later after her first son was born.

When that camera broke, Tara was crushed because she’d lost a number of baby pictures.

“I really enjoyed learning from him. I miss him a lot.”

5

“My husband felt so bad, he went out and bought me a new camera, right then and there. I’ve had a camera ever since.”

The skills that Tara now uses in her own photography business have been self-taught.

She explains, “I read a lot on the Internet. I watch YouTube tutorials a lot – they’re very beneficial.

“I also see what other people do, as far as their photography. I think, How did they do

that? How did they get that color? How did they get that light?

“Then, I start researching it to figure out how to do the same thing.”

Tara has also learned a lot from “trial and error.” She explains, “If I took a bad picture, I learned from it for future attempts. Maybe I needed to set the camera on a tripod so it wouldn’t shake – just little things I kept learning and teaching myself.

DECK YOUR HALLS FOR THE SEASON ...Get Expert Decorating Advice Year-Round!

Helen Woodard’s Yager Interiors

ver Your orld!

Yager Interiors, Inc.

113 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana 260.589.3671

Co

W

Helen Woodard’s

Let U s

is a complete home decorating center – exciting decorating ideas, beautifully coordinated home fashions, design advice, unique gifts and accessories for your home... all in one convenient location.

Gift Certificates Available!

“I’m still learning. I am independent, I’m a go-getter, and I’m self-taught.

But, I catch on pretty quick, so that helps.”

Remember the Reason for the Season!

Tara has picked up tricks of the trade from other photographers. “There were photographers out there that I really admired. I knew they knew how to take pictures. Their photography is excellent, and that’s why I started to watch and see how they were doings things.

“And, expertise is really what you gain,” Tara continues. “I don’t want to be just like them, but I want my level of photography to be where theirs is.”

It wasn’t necessarily Tara’s intent, at first, to become a photographer. She was already employed and otherwise very busy – as the mother of six.

“Other people really pushed me into it,” she says.

“I was taking pictures of my own kids and putting them on my blog. I was just starting to get into Facebook.” Friends noticed Tara’s photos and asked if she would take photos of their kids.

Tara began photographing for friends and family. Her earlier learning, combined with experience, has allowed her to flourish as a photographer. “I can hardly look at the old pictures now,” she admits, “because you just grow so much over the years. You learn more, get more experience, and you just get better and better.”

Quality isn’t only about technique.

Tara has also made improvements in her equipment. “I actually started with a Kodak EASYSHARE camera.

It took really good pictures outside, but as I started taking more and more pictures, I knew I was going to have to get something better.”

159 W. Main Street, Berne (260)589-2135

Faith & Life Books and Gifts

NOW CARRYING

Home Furniture & Decor!

HOURS Mon. thru Sat. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

222 W. Lincoln Street Portland, Indiana

Next to El Camino Restaurant

(260)726-6190

20% OFF

Any One (1) Clothing Item Excludes Simply Kelly & Home Decor

Must present coupon - One offer per person Not valid with any other offer

Expires 12/31/13

7

222 W. Lincoln Street, Portland Next to El Camino Restaurant

Tara’s next camera was an improvement but still performed poorly in low light.

“So, I went with the Canon 5D,” she says. “I was so excited because I found it at a discount. After I got it, I went to put my lenses on it, but most of them didn’t fit. I was floored.

the

Crafty Corner 112 W. Butler Street Next to Thien Snipps

Fort Recovery, Ohio

419.852.2482

Handcrafted Jewelry & Gifts for All Occasions Holiday Decorations Children’s Clothing Fresh Pine Wreaths Homemade Baked Goods Open Tue. 10-6, Wed.-Fri. 8:30-4:30, Sat. 8:30-2, Closed Monday

“But, in the end, I found I had two lenses that worked. They were prime lenses. Now that’s all I own – prime lenses. With these, the focus is so sharp that, even if it’s a distance picture, you can still zoom in well enough that you can crop it way down and get a very, very nice picture.”

Over time, Tara saw an exponential increase in the success of her business, which she dubbed Tara Steffen Fotos – she chose the foreign spelling of “photo” in honor of a Nicaraguan child she sponsors. Tara realized there would be some real benefits to pursuing photography full-time.

“My goal was to just do photography, to forget working outside our home.

It was a nice little income, and it got me outside of the house; but now, I see enough people on a daily or weekly basis. I don’t feel like I need to get out of the house anymore.

“It’s nice to be independent, and to be home for the kids. I want to be there for them, and I want to take pictures of them.”

Two of Tara’s six boys are students at South Adams. The other four have finished high school, and two of these are now married.

Tara says she’s noticed a few changes in herself since she began picking up the camera as an entrepreneur. “If you’re a photographer,” she explains,

FLOWERS GIFTS & MORE! 206 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana www.edelweissinc.com

8

CHRISTMAS TREES Choose & Cut Your Own Christmas Tree!

“you know that the world as you see it changes.

“When I go outside, I’m constantly looking at light through my flowers and at my yard, thinking, I’m going to get my camera and get a good picture of that. It’s constantly there – as if I’m always looking through a camera lens.

“And, when I go to the store – I don’t mean to – but I’m constantly looking for props. It drives me nuts,” she laughs. “I just don’t look at the world the same anymore.”

OPEN FRI., SAT., & SUN. FROM NOV. 29th THRU DEC. 22nd – 11 a.m. Till Dark

Choose From Our Field Selection of 5-9 Foot Tall Spruce & Pine Trees or Our Balled & Burlapped Trees!

GRAVE BLANKETS & WREATHS

FUN STRAW MAZE FOR THE KIDS!

HOFF’S SUDTREE FARM

6314 State Route 49 Ft. Recovery, OH 45846

(419) 942-1039

Tara doesn’t claim to have a specialty. Rather, she says, “I love shooting everything and anyone.

I cover weddings, seniors, babies, and families.” Tara has done some commercial photography, too, and sells prints of nature close-ups and scenic landscapes.

Although Tara’s business is growing, her ambitions are still pretty small.

“You always want to have more clients, or someday, get a new, nicer camera, but I feel like I’ve done so much already in my life. My life is so full, and it’s so blessed that I could just be happy being done right now, and everything would be good.

“I don’t focus on the future too much.

Everyday, you do what you need to do that day, and you try to do it a little bit better. That’s how I look at life, in general.”

CONTACT INFORMATION: 656 Parkway Street Berne, IN 46711

Happy Holidays from the Staff and Residents of Kindred Nursing and Rehab Meadowvale!

1529 W. Lancaster Street Bluffton, Indiana

260-824-4320

Indiana Pancake House & Restaurant

919 N. Main St., Bluffton, IN • (260)353-1414

50% OFF

(260) 589-2728

Buy One Meal & 2 Beverages at Regular Price & Receive 2nd Meal of equal or lesser value 50% OFF! Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner • Mon.-Fri. Only Not valid with any other specials or discounts. Discount cannot be taken on $4.00 specials or steak entrees.

9

Sat. - Mon. 6am to 3pm \ Tues.-Fri. 6am to 8pm

LIVE FREE FROM PAIN! Are you living with persistent pain or pain medications? Let the caring professionals at Adams Physical Therapy Services help you get your life back on track. You’ll be amazed with the results!

Physical Therapy Services, Inc. 111 W. North Street

910 E. Washington, Ste. 3

(260) 726-6828

(765) 584-3665

Portland, IN 47371

Winchester, IN 47394

Toll Free: 1 (888) 222-0130

FORT FITNESS-N-MORE

105 E. Butler, Ft. Recovery, OH (419) 375-1028 Membership Benefits Include:

Arm’s

Auto Body

* UNLIMITED USE OF WEIGHT ROOM * INFRARED SAUNA * INDIVIDUAL SHOWERS & LOCKERS * DISCOUNTED TANNING * DISCOUNTED CHILDREN’S CLASSES * FREE BABYSITTING WHILE YOU WORK OUT OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MASSAGE THERAPIST ON STAFF We offer classes in Gymnastics, Ballet, Tap Jazz, Hip Hop, Karate, and Pom Pom Dance, Ages 2 - Adult

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

260.726.7343 Mike Blowers, Owner

801 N. Wayne Street - Portland, IN

Quality Work Since 1969 All Makes & Models All Insurance Companies Hours: M-F 8 to 5 – Like us on Facebook! –

“the concrete statue place”

LOCKER’S ABOUNDS

WITH GIFTS FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION Article & Photos by Holly Wuebker

F

or Roger Locker, of Portland, Indiana, the gift business is something that he grew to love and has been working on for many years. What started out as a side business housed in a barn has flourished into a fulltime gift shop that employs two friends, in addition to Roger and his wife Angie.

Several years ago, Roger was selling cleaning equipment for a family-owned

company just east of Indianapolis. The business was struggling, and after Roger had worked there for seventeen years, all non-family employees were suddenly let go. Roger saw this as an opportunity to focus on growing his part-time gift business.

So, he began working more at the shop and also attended antique shows and craft fairs around Indiana. He would travel to

11

Indianapolis to set up a tent for a show, or visit an arts and crafts mall, in order to promote his business and sell his inventory.

As with most companies, there were peaks and valleys. Roger found his business picked up significantly around the holidays. He noticed a steady increase in traffic around Christmas, Valentine’s

Day, and Mother’s Day, and he realized he could do more to build his company.

In 2005, Roger moved the business to its current location at 204 West Votaw Street in Portland – his beloved hometown. He was a 1969 graduate of Jay County High School.

After relocating the shop, known as Locker’s Touch of Country Gifts, to a

more central location, Roger saw the business grow. But, he wasn’t able to keep employees during slower seasons.

He says letting staff go was “one of the hardest things he had to do.” In 2006, Roger expanded his inventory to include bereavement gifts so he could employ his staff year-round.

What many see on the outside – the “concrete statue place” – is only a small glimpse of the store’s offerings. Inside, there are two separate focuses: the traditional gift shop and the bereavement gift shop.

On the traditional gift side, Locker’s offers items like Yankee candles, Willow Tree® statues, snowmen figures, Christmas gifts, Duck Dynasty items, Harley-Davidson® memorabilia, solar military rocks, outdoor decorations, and so much more. The bereavement side offers gifts like angels, wind chimes, memory boxes, framed prints, silk flower arrangements, decorative throws, and concrete statues, just to name a few.

Locker’s carries gifts for any occasion, including births and other special celebrations for that special someone. Greeting cards are readily available near the cash register, along with bags and gift-wrap.

Another unique service that Locker’s provides is free delivery of their bereavement gifts to area funeral homes in Berne, Dunkirk, Fort Recovery, Geneva, Pennville, Portland and Redkey. Ordering is as easy as stopping by or placing a phone call.

As Locker’s continues to expand, so does the need for storage. Recently,

ASSISTED LIVING Our Amenities Include: •• 24-hour 24-hour on-site on-site staff staff •• Medication Medication reminders reminders by by hostess hostess •• On-site beauty salon On-site beauty salon •• Pharmacy Pharmacy delivery delivery •• Planned Planned activities activities •• Weekly Weekly housekeeping/laundry housekeeping/laundry

Move toaCrownPointe– Not SnowBird?

ASpend PLACEthe YOUWinter CAN CALL HOME! with Us— Let Us Take Care of the Snow Removal!

Call for a Tour Today!

Call for a Tour Today!

Sheri Arbuckle, RN - Executive Tess Hemmelgarn, RN Director sarbuckle@cpcommunities.com Executive Director

(260)726-3577

745 Patriot Patriot Drive Drive •• Portland, Portland, Indiana Indiana 745

Holidays are made for us!

Freshly-Baked Holiday Treats in the Shop • Pies Cakes • Cookies • Candies Special Occasion Cakes Gluten-Free Options!

FREE Consultation & Tasting NOW OPEN SATURDAYS 8AM-12N Fresh Donuts, Too!!

Kellie’s Sweet Shop HOURS:

13

Tue/Thu/Fri 6am-2pm Wed 10am-6pm Now Open Saturdays 8-Noon Closed Sunday & Monday

Just North of Ft. Recovery OH 5561 SR 49 419.852.2674 kelliekakes.shutterfly.com

CONFUSED ABOUT CHANGES...

...TO YOUR SENIOR HEALTH PLAN?

CALL US! The Insurance Haus Deryll G. Zurcher, LUTCF (260)525-3640 Andrew J. Zurcher (260)525-8895 dgzurcher@gmail.com www.insurancehaus.com Celebrating 30 Years of Service in 2013!

We Offer

FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY to Funeral Homes in Berne, Geneva Portland, Dunkirk, Pennville, Redkey & Fort Recovery

Roger purchased a storage barn and placed it next door to the facility to house more stock. “It makes it convenient to just walk around the corner,” he says.

Angie, a recently retired French teacher of 36 years, assists Roger in the shop and “acts as his support system.” For the Lockers, who celebrated their second wedding anniversary in September, the unique gift shop is not just about inviting others to stop by and purchase gifts for loved ones. It’s about the experience and the business “family” – the Lockers building relationships with their employees and customers.

Employees Jackie Brown and Emily Daugherty have been with Locker’s for several years. Emily and Roger grew up just down the road from each other as kids and were country neighbors. Jackie says the Lockers are “like family” to her. And, like a family, everyone pitches in when needed.

The Lockers have seven grandkids and one on the way. They recently purchased a large motor home and have been using it enjoy time with grandchildren – whether they take it tailgating or go out for ice cream.

As the holidays approach, Angie and Roger plan to take the motor home when they go Christmas shopping and when they stock up for holiday shoppers at the store.

CONTACT INFORMATION: 204 W. Votaw Street Portland, IN 47371

(877) 896-7060

YANKEE CANDLE WIND CHIMES - WILLOW TREE BEREAVEMENT GIFTS ORNAMENTAL CONCRETE

(260)726-3711

204 W. Votaw Street Next to Walgreens in Portland

14

Discover the wisdom of nature.

• Vitamins and Herbs • Natural and Gourmet Foods • Traditional Chinese Medicines • Homeopathic Remedies • Bulk Culinary Spices • Books and Literature

• Gourmet Coffees / Herbal Teas • Natural Body and Skin Care • Refrigerated / Frozen Foods • Grains, Pastas, Cereals, Flours • Children’s Herbals and Vitamins • Daily Discounts

You can rely on our knowledgeable staff for personalized, professional service.

We Appreciate Our Loyal Customers!!!!

Ask about our “E T Healthy Rewards Card”

260.589.3675 H Hwy 27 North, Berne H Since 1982 H 1.800.292.2521

Our selection, prices and service are worth the drive!

Hours: Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm

www.earthentreasuresonline.com

H

Like us on Facebook!

LEHMAN

32.12

$

BIXLER

tax included

PROFESSIONAL EYE CARE

OIL CHANGE

Eye Health and Vision Examinations

TIRE ROTATION

Treatments of Eye Diseases and Injuries Wide Variety of Eyewear and Sunglasses

&

Synthetic Blend

With Complete Car Inspection Up to 5 qts. (most vehicles)

Contact Lenses including Specialty and Bifocal Lenses

Ask about the $10 Reward Card Available thru December 31st!

260-589-2020

Foreign & Domestic

305 US Hwy 27 South, Berne

Scott E. Lehman, O.D. Scott D. Bixler, O.D.

BLUFFTON TIRE INC. 1308 S. MAIN ST., BLUFFTON

(260)824-0418

4310 S US Hwy 27 (260)589-2671

Start P lanning Now For ORDER BASKETS T HE HOLIDAYS! WeGIFT ship anywhere!

GIFT CERTIFICATES Available

WINTER HOURS: WEEKDAYS 9AM - 5PM • SATURDAYS 9AM - 4PM

mod

50-93/

www.swisslandcheese.com

c o a l

Gravit b u r n

maintenance-

SINCE 1919

There are no moving part system. It requires no ele keeps the unit burning ev power outage. It uses ant coal, which is gravity-fed Heavy cast iron shaker g

Stay WARM with KeePinG you warm for more than 30 years

ash pan makes for easy a

SavinGS:

Coal is one of the cheape on the planet. The cleanfor which the Hitzer E-Z F save the planet’s environ coal is rich in clean-burni pollution-causing sulfur, d “pea” sized coal is readily easy-to-store 40 lb. bags. A more heat per dollar than v

WATER HEATERS GAS/OIL FURNACES & BOILERS SNAKE CAMERA

warmth:

Anthracite coal burns hot smooth, even warmth to e that you can control with thermostat. It has hours o hopper. The optional dist

for circulating the heat to e

Hitzer Stoves!

Beauty:

The Swiss Amish craftsm stoves adds charm to any glow in the full-view wind for the eyes and mind. Ch green, metallic blue, char brown to compliment you We offer only a few optio or pewter plated door • go (handles and knobs).

AIR CONDITIONERS

Gas, Wood & Coal Stoves Green Egg Cookers & HANDAccessories BUILT

PLUMBING FIXTURES

BUY NOW FOR CHRISTMAS!

In Swiss, Hitzer means “heater”. More importantly, Hitzer has come to mean quality, comfort, efficiency, value…

and a commitment backed by superior

BY AMISH CRAFTSMEN FOR YEARS OF COMFORT

Amish craftsmanship that provides you with years of heating performance.

CERTIFIED INSTALLERS

269 E. Main Street, Berne 215 E. Water Street • Berne, IN

589-2818 or (800)588-2818

260.589.8536

www.hitzer.com

Gold

warmth made by hand

CUTE & COMFY

KNIT ITEMS FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

W

orking from home can be a rewarding experience for those who are fortunate enough to do so. Becki Schwartz, the mother of three, knows the joys of staying home to be with her girls while running a small business on the side.

Before quitting her job in 2011 to stay home with her young daughter, Becki worked at Kinder Haus Daycare in Berne, Indiana. With quite a bit more free time on her hands, she decided to learn how to knit. Becki’s mother,

who crochets, and sister-in-law, who knits, were part of her inspiration to begin learning this art.

Becki has always been a do-it-yourself kind of person. She admired all the cute little hats that photographers use for props in their photography and thought, “I can learn how to do that.”

Becki started watching video tutorials online to learn basic stitching and later learned how to do patterns. She says she learned by pausing the

17

video frequently and replaying a clip over and over until she understood the concept. Then, she moved on to the next clip.

Becki prefers thicker yarns because they knit together more quickly. Sometimes, it’s difficult to switch colors and still get a project to look right because yarn thickness needs to match between one color to the next, or it could throw off the pattern and overall finished look.

With the knack for knitting under her belt, Becki decided to learn crocheting earlier this

year. She has already mastered that, as well.

She has also found that crochet is much faster than knitting and is starting to use this method more often.

Now, Becki sells her handmade items, including hats, headbands, and cup cozies, on Etsy and Facebook. She calls her home-based online business Lost Her Stitches. Becki also gets e-mails and texts from friends and family asking her to make special orders for them.

260.525.0877 Phil Horton, Owner

“It’s Never clean until it’s Just Like New”

’Tis the season!

’Tis the Season!

Wishing you and your family moments of Wishing you and your family moments of magic to make your holidays bright.

Thank Becki’s favorite project is making hats, magic to make you for the opportunity to serveyour you holidays in the bright. Thank and she loves to try out new patterns. She you for the opportunity to serve you in the enjoys the challenge of seeing a hat andnew year. new year. trying to create one just like it. Then, she Brad Alberson Agency Brad Alberson Agency Brad Alberson Agency 107 W Wabash St 107 W Wabash 107StW Wabash St Bluffton, IN 46714 Bluffton, IN 46714 Bluffton, IN 46714 (260) 827-0581 (260) 827-0581 (260) 827-0581 balberso@amfam.com balberso@amfam.com balberso@amfam.com

adds some element of variance to make the design her own.

Becki has begun to design her own style of hats, as well. She is quite creative, knitting and crocheting hats that include bows or eyes and noses –anything to make the hat unique and original.

Many of Becki’s special orders are for character hats. She has made HELLO KITTY® designs, as well as minion hats patterned after the small yellow and purple creatures from the children’s movie, Despicable Me. Becki has also created cupcake hats, hats with ear flaps, owl hats, and many others.

American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries

American Family Mutual Insurance and its Subsidiaries Brad Alberson Agency American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Home Office –Company Madison, WI 53783 Home Office – Madison, WIOffice 53783– Madison, WI 53783 Home 107 W Wabash St © 2006 002146 – 3/06 © 2006 002146 © 2006– 3/06 002146 – 3/06 Bluffton, IN 46714 (260) 827-0581 balberso@amfam.com

She gets holiday-themed orders, as well, like Halloween hats or Christmas hats with snowmen on them. She recently got a new pattern for a “Star Wars” Yoda HatAmerican Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Home Office – Madison, WI 53783 and was excited to try it out. © 2006

002146 – 3/06

Becki loves that her girls can help by trying on a new project upon completion to make sure things fit and that the item looks right. Becki’s girls often model items while she takes photos to use in marketing the items online.

Her oldest daughter has also accompanied her to yarn stores to help search out skeins of yarn that include free patterns. On one occasion, Becki’s daughter grabbed one that had a picture of a hat on it and asked Becki if she could make this one.

The pattern looked rather challenging to Becki at the time, but she was pleasantly surprised when it did turn out well. She’s made all of her daughter’s friends their own versions of the hat, as well.

While Becki especially enjoys making hats, she loves trying other projects, too.

She has made cup cozies – and, mittens with a cozie built in. Some of the cozie designs are seasonal, while others include a sports team logo and are done in the team’s colors.

Extra cheese and toppings may be an additional charge. Delivery charges may apply. Not valid for online ordering. Valid at participating locations. Limited time offer.

FABRIC

Store-N-More 1327 US Hwy 27 N Berne, IN 46711

Next to East of Chicago Pizza

OPEN Mon., Tues., Thurs. 9-5, Fri. 9-6, Sat. 8:30-1, Closed Weds. & Sun.

WIDE VARIETY OF FABRICS Elastic • Laces • Notions

GIFT ITEMS & GIFT CERTIFICATES Winter Coats • Headscarves Boys Caps

HANDMADE GREETING CARDS 19

(260) 729-7625

Village Green Apartments • • • • • •

Affordable Housing Private Entrances Quiet, Yet Convenient Location 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments Newly Remodeled Phase II-V “For Those 62 And Older, Or Disabled, Regardless Of Age” • Phase I For Families Of All Ages

Country Brook • Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments Now Available • Rental Assistance For Those Who Qualify • For Families Of All Ages • Located Just 30 Minutes From Fort Wayne And Close To Parks And Shopping • Playground, Fully Equipped Kitchens And Air Conditioning

For More Information . . .

522 S. 13th Street, Decatur, IN 46733 260-724-4616 • TDD# 800-743-3333 www.rentbiggs.com “This institution is an equal opportunity provider, and employer.”

Karen’s Treasures

Becki also makes wash cloths and ear warmers in an array of brilliant colors.

She’s also created home decor items, like pumpkins for fall, small baskets, and bags.

Etsy sales are pretty steady, and Becki says that she gets one or two orders a week – enough for her, right now. She can usually complete a single project in about a days’ time.

Although Becki likes small projects that can be completed quickly, she has begun a special project that will be meaningful and treasured for years to come. In March, Becki started knitting a queensize blanket, using skeins of yarn from her husbands’ late grandmother’s collection.

She anticipates that this project will take several more months to complete.

Becki’s daughters are beginning to take an interest in knitting and crocheting, as well. One of her daughters is already learning how to finger knit, and before she gets started, she is sure to ask if they have any plans for the next few hours. The younger Schwartz knows she can’t take the yarn off her hand until it’s completed, and she plans accordingly.

Becki’s youngest daughter wants to learn how to knit, too, – not “just pretend” when Becki loans her a pair of needles for practicing. The proud mama says that the young girl already knows the difference between the needles and the hooks.

Each of the Schwartz girls no doubt harbor a secret hope that some of the cute hats their mom makes don’t sell – so they might get to keep and wear them!

CONTACT INFORMATION: www.etsy.com/shop/ LostHerStitches

SAVE 10% w/coupon on page 47!

LostHerStiches@gmail.com

NEW & USED

HOME FURNISHINGS Mon., Thurs., Fri. - 10 to 5:30 • Sat. - 9 to 1:30+

444 E. Main Street, Berne

(260)589-2002

20

OUTDOOR COOKING SUPPLIES

Authorized Distributor:

2194 US Hwy 27, Berne

THE ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR LAWN & GARDEN NEEDS

VEGETABLE SEEDS Over 1200 Varieties, including Organic & Conventional (No GMOs) Almost 200 Tomato Varieties, Many Heirlooms Over 60 Sweet Corn Varieties 100 Squash Varieties

FLOWER SEEDS Over 1200 Varieties & Colors, Many AllAmerican Selections and Floraselect Winners Fruit Trees & Berry Plants Forage & Ground Cover Seeds

GET UP TO

7% OFF

GREENHOUSES Accessories & Covers Greenhouse Irrigation Supplies

ON GREENHOUSES TODAY! Expires 01/02/14

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR CATALOG, WRITE OR LEAVE A MESSAGE

(260) 692-6827

Sc

Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sat. 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

hw

(Next to Schwartz Blacksmith)

CU art z Fu ST ll O Bla LE line M ck D of Li Ste FA gh e B sm Bo ts l & W R ith l • H el IC 21 94 ts d A & an ing T ,L S. Nu d US Su IO BE P ts um ppl LC RN Hw ies N y E 27 ps

Adjustable Tripods & Utensils • Fire Pits, Kettles & Smokers Cast Iron Skillets & Griddles • Lump Charcoal

AREA EVENTS CALENDAR

1st

Christmas at the Museum

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Jay Co. Historical Museum Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168

Annual Artist Member Exhibit / Sale Continues 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Wassenberg Art Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6837

Seven Oaks Gift Shoppe Open 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

VW Co. Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 203-5779

SONOS Handbell Choir 3:00 p.m.

Niswonger Perf. Arts Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722

Ouabache Wonderland of Lights Continues 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Ouabache State Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-0926

Holiday Lights at the Fair Continues

6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Van Wert County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-1214

Tree Lighting

6:00 p.m.

Adams Co. Courthouse Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-4758

Christmas Lighting Ceremony

7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

2nd

Cozy Christan Readers 10:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Moms Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

1

Poetry Coterie

Library Bookworms

Feel the Warmth of Christmas

5th

3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Downtown Dunkirk, Indiana (765) 768-1041

Visit with Santa Claus 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Musical Monday 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Wells County Library Ossian, Indiana (260) 622-4691

3rd

Blood Pressure Checks 8:15 a.m.

McDonald’s Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2327

Senior BINGO 8:30 a.m.

McDonald’s Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2327

Toddler Candy Cane Hunt 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Blood Pressure Checks Noon - 2:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496

LEGO Club

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

4th

Needles, Hooks & Pins 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

Senior Christmas Carry-In & White Elephant BINGO 11:30 a.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496

Make & Take International Christmas Ornaments 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

LEGO Club

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

LEGO Club

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Weight Watchers Meeting 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

6th

Artists in Action

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

Holiday Toy & Gift Consigment Auction

3:00 p.m.

Adams Co. Flower/Produce Auction Monroe, Indiana (260) 525-6000

Festival of Trees Preview Party 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

Susan Ashton Concert 7:30 p.m.

Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

Just in the Nick of Time

Santa at the Pavilion

Dave Koz & Friends

7th

Seven Oaks Gift Shoppe Open

11th

7:30 p.m.

Marsh Foundation Auditorium Van Wert, Ohio (419) 605-6708

Christmas Craft Show 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Community Building Bryant, Indiana (260) 997-6418

LEGO Club

10:30 a.m.

Berne Public Library Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2809

Festival of Trees Open House Begins

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

It’s a Wonderful Life Seniors Program 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Woodcrest Auditorium Decatur, Indiana (260) 728-3989

Christmas at the Mansion Begins 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Historical Museum Bluffton, Indiana (260) 543-2423

2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496

2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

VW Co. Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 203-5779

Christmas in the Park 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Willshire Park Willshire, Ohio (419) 495-2655

9th

Moms Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Mayor’s Holiday Open House 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1520

10th

8th Christmas at the Museum 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Jay Co. Historical Museum Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

12th

Christmas Open House Luncheon Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Wells County Chamber Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-0510

Make & Take International Christmas Ornaments 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

Weight Watchers Meeting

iPad Club

Who Picked This Book, Anyway?

Christmas Open House

7:30 p.m.

Niswonger Perf. Arts Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722

Library Bookworms

Computer Club

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

Tony Orlando’s Great American Christmas

9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

JL Trekkers

Circle X Toy & Tool Auction

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Downtown Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7251

Needles, Hooks & Pins

Blood Pressure Checks Noon - 2:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496

4:00 p.m.

818 W 250 N Winchester, Indiana (260) 726-6433

7:30 p.m.

Niswonger Perf. Arts Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

Cookbook Club

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

Holiday Open House 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Bailey’s Coffee Shop Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

13th

Artists in Action

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

Healthy & Easy Cooking 10:00 a.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

2

23

Christmas Tree Walk 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

Senior BINGO

1:00 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

Christmas at the Museum

14

th

7th Annual Cookie Walk 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

A Friend’s House Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5556

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Jay Co. Historical Museum Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168

Moms Support Group

Adams Co. Winter Market 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

4-H Dining Hall Monroe, Indiana (260) 724-3047

1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

K123 Club

Christmas at the Cabin 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Limberlost State Site Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7428

3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

All Books Considered

Crafts & Cookies with Santa & Mrs. Claus 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Saturday Night at the Village 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Point of Grace Christmas 7:30 p.m.

Niswonger Perf. Arts Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722

16th

Blood Pressure Checks 12:30 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

24

3

9:00 a.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

Seniors Theater Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

Make & Take International Christmas Ornaments 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

LEGO Club

Blood Pressure Checks

LEGO Club

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Santa at Seven Oaks

2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

VW Co. Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 203-5779

Basket Weaving Class

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The Java Bean Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

8:30 a.m.

McDonald’s Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2327

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-6433

19th

Senior BINGO

17th

Annual Farm Toy Show

15

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Noon - 2:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496

th

Paws & Claus

18th

Needles, Hooks & Pins 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Senior Luncheon

12:00 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

Library Bookworms 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

Poetry Jam

Winter Wonderland

Candy/Cookie Exchange 6:00 p.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

20th

Artists in Action

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

Ring Making Class

9:00 a.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

21st

December Dash 5K 9:00 a.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

CHRISTNER’S (260)728-2151

LEGO Club

10:30 a.m.

Berne Public Library Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2809

Saturday Afternoon @ the Movies 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612

23rd

Moms Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

SMORGASBORD Lunch: Monday thru Friday 11a.m. - 1p.m.

310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN

Sunday 11a.m. - 1:30p.m.

www.pizzakingofdecatur.com HOURS:

Dinner:

Sunday thru Thursday 10:30a.m. - 9p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday 5p.m. - 9p.m.

Friday 10:30a.m. - 10p.m.

Saturday 4p.m. - 10p.m.

15% OFF

TOTAL BILL

27

th

W/Coupon on Page 47!

Game Day

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

30th

Sweet Candy Creations 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

or ec D ay id ol H r ou Y of l al d Fin Through the Winter Season

Game Day

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

31

st

Snowy Day Crafts 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605

Get Ready for New Year’s Eve 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270

See us at the Adams Co.

Winter Market

Dec 14th and on the 3rd Saturday

of every month

Jan-April

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

9a-2p 4

514 S. 13th Street, Decatur

260.724.3626 514 S. 13th Street, Decatur 260.724.3626 NEW MEMBER SPECIALS

NEW MEMBER SPECIALS

(DECATUR LOCATION ONLY)

(DECATUR LOCATION ONLY) 12-MONTH MEMBERSHIP 12-MONTH $ 29.95/MO. MEMBERSHIP $ 29.95/MO. 15.00 $KEY

$ .00 15 KEY FREE T-SHIRT 1 MONTH TANNING 1 MONTH 1, 3 & 6 TANNING MONTH PACKAGES AVAILABLE

PRICES GOOD DECEMBER 1ST THROUGH DECEMBER 31ST

1, 3 & 6 MONTH PACKAGES AVAILABLE Staffed Hours: PRICES GOOD DECEMBER 1ST THROUGH DECEMBER 31ST

Mon. thru Thurs. 10-2 & 4-8; Fri. thru Sat. 10-2 Staffed Hours: Mon. thru Thurs. 10-2 10-1 & 4-8; 5-8; Fri. thru Sat. 10-2 10-1

24 Hour Access - Safe and Secure

Need More Space?

DECATUR

SELF-STORAGE DecaturPM.com

Give Your Christmas Decor a Home!

Locally Owned and Operated since 1986!

Five Locations to Better Serve You Over 750 Units to Choose From Clean, Affordable–and Friendly Service

DECATUR’S LEADER IN SELF-STORAGE

260.724.3373

Office located at 2221 Guy Brown Drive

healthy, glowing skin

LASER TREATMENTS,

FACIALS, & OTHER PAMPERING FOR YOUR SKIN Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

S

ome people take pleasure in styling hair. Others are passionate about offering fashion advice. Rachelle Hanson loves helping people with their skin care issues.

Rachelle, who attended Michigan State to pursue a degree in physiology, started out working at a medical office that offered laser

services, along with facials and corrective skin care. While employed here, Rachelle’s attention was diverted specifically to skin care issues.

She noticed that treatment of various skin problems often brought an improvement in a person’s self-esteem, as well. Rachelle enrolled at Master’s School of Cosmetology in Fort

27

Wayne, eager to learn more about skin care.

She was able to complete training in cosmetic laser treatments at her place of employment.

In 2008, Rachelle and her husband, Dr. Craig E. Hanson, opened Solutions Skincare and Laser Center, LLC, in Decatur, Indiana.

Rachelle says Solutions Skincare is a medical spa – the only one for over 100 miles – a cross between a medical clinic and a day spa.

Some of the services offered at Solutions Skincare include: laser treatments, microdermabrasion, photo facials, injectables and fillers (like BOTOX®), aggressive chemical peels, and skin tightening or skin rejuvenation.

Rachelle does what’s called a private skin care analysis, where she sits down with a client to hear what concerns they have or what

Est. 1975

MR Planners Kitchens Windows Baths & Remodeling Up to $1600 appliances with Kitchen!

FREE

258 N. 2nd St. Decatur IN 260-724-4000 Visit Us Online @ www.mrplanners.com

they would like to change about their skin. Rachelle offers suggestions about available treatment or products that may help with the particular skin concerns or problems.

While Rachelle is not a medical doctor, she’s fortunate enough to be married to one. Dr. Hanson comes into the office to administer injections and perform laser treatments. He sees patients in Decatur, as well as Fort Wayne, New Haven and Hicksville and Paulding, Ohio.

Rachelle says that Solutions Skincare is different in that they do not offer cosmetic surgery. Instead, their services deal more with the overall health and appearance of the skin. Rachelle does not diagnose skin problems but can make suggestions to clients about improving their skin.

Solutions Skincare specializes in antiaging treatments. Rachelle and her team provide a healthy regimen of skin care products that are medical-grade, meaning the active ingredients are of the highest quality. Most people who use products from department stores, Rachelle says, develop allergies because of the filler ingredients found in those kinds of products.

Another common skin problem Rachelle sees is acne. Acne flare-ups can cause embarrassment and insecurity – as well as physical and emotional scars that may last a lifetime. People can have acne at nearly any stage in life, from adolescence through age 40, and beyond.

Rachelle’s priority is achieving healthy skin and then caring for it. It usually only takes about one treatment to correct something like age spots. Anyone can have a face lift, chemical peel, or laser treatment, but if you don’t take care of your skin, more correction will be needed down the road.

29

DECORATIVE LAWN ITEMS MAKE GREAT GIFTS!

SIMON’S Manufacturing Inc. 7315 US Hwy 27 S Just south of Berne

(260)589-3223

BLUHM & REBER DRAIN SEWER & SEPTIC TANK CLEANING Commercial Industrial Residential

(260)565-3469 or (260)409-5408 Cell 3663 N 600 W, Decatur

CLASSICS PLUS AUTO SALES Autos & Motorcycles 607 W. Franklin Street Berne, Indiana

(260)589-3104 classicsplusautosales.com

ATHERING HOU G E TH see our vendor booths forSE many great gift ideas!

Rachelle says she never tires of seeing the results that can be achieved in just a matter of a few short months. It’s not unusual for her to greet a woman who wears her hair long to hide her face – to see a new client who keeps her head down, as if ashamed of her appearance and seeking some sort of help.

Rachelle loves to see the change in her clients each time they come back for another appointment. She says they stand a little straighter and just look more confident, overall. Some feel so much better about their appearance, they’ve dared to try a shorter haircut.

They no longer feel the need to hide anything.

In the Solutions Skincare office, there are numerous photo displays of real clients. Rachelle and her team have assisted these clients with anything from age spot removal to spider veins, to deep wrinkles and neck lifts.

It’s not so much about vanity, Rachelle says, as it is about looking as good as you possibly can at the age you are.

8AM - 5PM Mon. thru Sat. Closed Sunday

105 W. Main Street, Berne, IN

260.589.8466

Relax — There’s a Good Neighbor close to you.

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • HEALTH

INSURANCE

This past summer, Solutions Skincare held a makeover contest to show people how to take 10 years off their appearance easily, without surgery, and in a relatively short amount of time.

Solutions Skincare clients wanted to see this demonstration using a person between the ages of 65 to 75 – someone with a good deal of aging skin issues.

For two months, the chosen lady underwent treatment for age spots and heavy wrinkles. The team performed photo facial treatments for the age spots, followed by PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy. This is a relatively new procedure, where a client’s blood is drawn and spun to remove the plateletrich plasma.

Steve Rich, Agent

230 S. 2nd Street, Decatur IN

260.728.2933

30

833 N. 13th Street The plasma is then injected back into the client’s skin, usually in the face. This immediately promotes formation and growth of collagen in the skin. Collagen is lost with age, and when it is replaced, the skin will naturally begin to look and behave younger. The improvement continues for up to a year.

Solutions Skincare revealed the results of their dramatic makeover at their annual Holiday Wine Tasting party last month.

Those attending got to see photos of the test subject before treatment. And, they were able to inspect the final results in person at the party.

Solutions Skincare and Laser Center provides opportunities to improve your skin without having to have surgery.

Rachelle is very excited about their recent expansion to Jefferson Boulevard in Fort Wayne. The closest competing medical spa is located in Indianapolis.

Rachelle says effective advertising is the hardest part of her job, because most people do not like to admit they have had work done. The staff of Solutions really appreciates when a client is willing to offer a testimonial.

When asksed about her personal life – her life outside of work – Rachelle laughs and says that her work is her life! She has one child still at home, and another is studying to be a plastic surgeon. Rachelle also teaches post graduate classes to other estheticians, instructing them on more advanced therapies for clients.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

(Next to H & R Block)

Decatur, IN

(260) 223-2490 INSTRUMENTS & ACCESSORIES INSTRUMENT REPAIR LESSONS - SHEET MUSIC ART SUPPLIES & CLASSES Ask about our Smartsy Artsy Card!

Support the art or music program at your school or church with each in-store or catalogue purchase!

STORE HOURS:

Monday thru Friday 4-8, Saturday 10-5

the homeplace

Accents

Come enjoy the sights, scents and sounds of Christmas! Traditional.    136 N. 2nd St., Downtown Decatur 260.728.9794



M.C. HILTY CONSTRUCTION

1401 N. 13th Street Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 728-4020 NEW CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS BASEMENTS • CONCRETE 2575 W 250 S, Berne 31

(260)768-8154

Mervin C. Hilty - In Business Since 1991

Spruce Up Your Home for the New Year!

WILLSHIRE

Home Furnishings

NO INTEREST FINANCING

Vinyls

$1 OFF per Square Foot on Dura Ceramic Tile

**Great Prices on Other Ceramic Tile!**

Mannington Hardwood Lowest Prices Around!

HOME DECOR

Short drive

from Berne, Bliss Carpet Monroe & Special Prices!

Decatur!

Inhaus Laminate Special Prices! $1 OFF per Square Yard on All

PRIMITIVES AND

SAVE ON FLOORING

on Everything in the Store!

INCLUDING...

PRIMITIVE CABINETS LARGE SELECTION OF LIGHTED CANVAS PICTURES FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS BRAIDED RUGS & MORE!

318 State Street - Willshire, OH - 419.495.2833 Specializing in Specializing Specializing Specializing ininin Embroidery & Embroidery & Embroidery &Screen Screen Embroidery & Screen Printing Printing Printing Screen Printing

PROMOTIONAL ITEMS PROMOTIONAL ITEMS PROMOTIONAL ITEMS forfor your Business your Business for your Business

CLOTHING FOR WORK CLOTHING FOR WORK CLOTHING FOR WORK

SWEATSHIRTS* PANTS* SWEATSHIRTS* PANTS* SWEATSHIRTS* &&& PANTS* your School Spirit toShow Show your School Spirit totoShow your School Spirit

WARM-UP SUITS* WARM-UP SUITS* WARM-UP SUITS* *Dry Excel Moisture Management Available *Dry Excel Moisture Management Available *Dry Excel Moisture Management Available

155 Sprunger Street 155 Sprunger Street •Berne Berne 155 Sprunger Street • •Berne

(260)589-2200 (260)589-2200 (260)589-2200

sportform@berne.comcastbiz.net sportform@berne.comcastbiz.net sportform@berne.comcastbiz.net

treats for the tastebuds

SOMETHING FOR

EVERYONE TO ENJOY AT THE CUPBOARD Article & Photos by Holly Wuebker

T

his past July 1st, The Tin Cupboard in Fort Recovery, Ohio, celebrated its ninth anniversary.

The downtown restaurant serves soups, salads and sandwiches, as well as home-style dinners.

For Gail Tobe, owner and operator, customer satisfaction and employee sustainability rank high at the top of her list. She can proudly say that there has been zero turnover in her company since she started it nine years ago.

Rita Pleihman, an employee, says that’s one thing she enjoys about her work – her wonderful boss. She also “looks forward to getting up in the morning to go to work.

“You never know who you are going to meet, and there are always new stories, with people coming in from out of town.”

Rita goes from table to table, filling orders, smiling and talking to everyone in the shop.

33

Customers keep coming back to The Tin Cupboard, in part, because of the warm and friendly atmosphere.

Rita remembers a gentleman from Dayton, Ohio, that would, “stop by on his way from Dayton to Celina, where he had a place on the lake. He just loved the atmosphere and the delicious food.”

Gersh’s NING, INC. CARPET CLEA

Upon first entering The Tin Cupboard, guests are welcomed by a tall decorative tree covered in red, white and blue trimmings. “The Military Freedom Prayer Tree” has been at the restaurant for over four years, and its fame continues to grow.

Just prior to the start of the war in Iraq, Gail bought the tree. Following the holidays, she

Call (260) 692-6366

When You Want the Professionals You Can Trust

- Serving Adams, Wells, Jay & surrounding counties since 1994 -

Specializing in carpet & upholstery cleaning and water damage restoration FLOOD RESTORATION - LEATHER CLEANING/CONDITIONING AUTO & UPHOLSTERY - CERAMIC TILE & GROUT CLEANING

Your locally-owned and operated IICRC Certified Technicians www.gershscarpetcleaning.com

couldn’t bring herself to take it down.

Instead, she encouraged families to bring in pictures of their loved ones and place them on the tree.

Gail says that she polled her customers, asking whether she should remove the tree, and they voted to keep it. So, the tree stands year-round in The Tin Cupboard, “reminding us of our freedoms and the great country we live in.”

Seasonal decorations and dream catchers also adorn the business, giving it a homey, old-fashioned “mom-and-pop shop” feel. “The girls do the decorating,” says Gail. And, they do a mighty fine job.

The food served at The Tin Cupboard is definitely scrumptious, with many homemade items like desserts, sauces, wraps and pies. An overall, familyand kid-friendly environment, The Tin Cupboard has something for everyone’s taste buds, from their homemade apple dumplings to their turkey bacon wraps.

Everything they offer is sure to be delicious.

Hand-dipped ice cream is offered yearround, and their breadsticks are one of the many items that Fort Recovery high school student Samantha Garke loves to stop in for. She says, “The cheese sauce is my favorite.”

Samantha and four of her classmates like to enjoy a quick treat at The TIn Cupboard, prior to heading home for the evening. Rita asks the students about their favorite items at the deli, and unanimous replies of “breadsticks” and “ice cream” ring through the air.

The Tin Cupboard is especially wellknown for its homemade pies and desserts. The cherry pie is a favorite among customers.

112 S. Meridian Street , Portland across from the post office

(260)726-4937

Fresh Fudge & Candies Made in Downtown Portland

Visit Sharlette’s for...

Save w/ n o c upon o!

7 4 e g a p

GIFT BOXES OF FUDGE GIFT BAGS OF CHOCOLATE OLD FASHIONED SANTAS WIND & WILLOW SOUP & DIP MIXES CANDLES - GIFT TINS - & MORE! 35

–Closing at 2 p.m. on December 24th–

27th Annual Jay County

Farm Toy Show Sunday, December 15th

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Small Admission Fee Green 4-H Building Jay Co. Fairgrounds - Portland, Indiana

70+ Tables of New & Used Toys Some Collectibles, such as NASCAR & Coke

Family-Oriented - Friendly Dealers Handicap Accessible - Concessions

LAST TOY SHOW BEFORE CHRISTMAS! A Great Place to Find That Something Special for the Farm Enthusiast in Your Life!

Call (260) 726-6433 or (260) 251-0463 for info.

One thing many diners may not realize is that The Tin Cupboard offers catering for parties of all sizes. The restaurant caters to gatherings of fewer than ten people, while they’ve also served large receptions with over 650 people!

Gail laughs. “No matter how big or small, we cater them all!”

Merry Christmas from Da Shack!

Diners at The Tin Cupboard enjoy homecooked meals, and the eatery also offers tasty soups and sandwiches. According to the staff, a regular customer once claimed the restaurant served “the best Reuben sandwiches in a three-state area.”

Coffee – Tea Espresso Pastries Desserts Smoothies SAVE $$ COUPON ON PAGE 47!

WARM UP WITH A HOLIDAY DRINK! 143 E. Jackson Street, Monroe

260.692.4264

The Tin Cupboard has catered Red Hat club parties, birthday parties, business meetings and wedding receptions. The restaurant crew enjoys providing a delicious experience for those special occasion guests. It’s another great way to serve the community.

Keep The Tin Cupboard in mind this holiday season. It is Gail’s mission to ensure that every guest has the best dining experience. The Tin Cupboard is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

While The Tin Cupboard is closed on Sundays, the restaurant is still available for parties and catered events. There is no charge to rent the facility – another friendly perk of the local business. All they ask is that you enjoy their special treats or homemade specialties when hosting a special event.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Celtic Foam Celtic FoamPVC PVC Celtic Foam PVC Cedar Nest Trays Removable Fronts Removable Fronts Compartments GOURDS & Deep Deep Compartments - Winch & Cable System Winch & Cable System DeepRACKS Compartments - Winch & Cable System

105 S. Wayne Street Ft. Recovery, OH 45846

(419) 375-3034

Starling-Resistant Available!

–Starling-ResistantEntrances Entrances Available– Starling-Resistant Entrances Available!

Now Carrying Bird Feeders!

GOURDS GOURDS Guaranteed for Life!

MERLIN C. HILTY MERLIN C. HILTY 1757 S 200 W 1757 S 200INW46772 MONROE, MONROE, IN 46772

36

We’ve Made Giving Easy This Year at Zurcher’s Best-One® Give Back This Holiday Season!

Monroe United Methodist Food Pantry Food Drive:

From November 23 – December 21, Zurcher’s Best-One will be collecting non-perishable food items and personal hygiene supplies. All items will be donated to the Monroe United Methodist Food Pantry to benefit residents of Adams County.

Show your support – and your holiday spirit! – and help a local family this holiday season.

With Your Donation…

Get a $50 in-store instant rebate on a set of 4 Bridgestone passenger or light truck tires or get a $35 in-store instant rebate on set of 4 Firestone passenger or light truck tires!* Offer valid through 12/21/13.

Give the Gift of Tires & Service!

Get a $20 gift card from us when you purchase $400 in Zurcher’s Best-One gift cards for your family & friends! Offer valid through 12/24/13. *Donation must be given at time of purchase. $50 Instant Rebate on any set of 4 Bridgestone tires, $35 Instant Rebate on any set of 4 Firestone tires. Rebate will be deducted from final invoice before taxes. Offer good on passenger or light truck tires only. One set of 4 tires per customer. No substitutions. See store for details.

Bring a donation, get up to a $50 instant rebate!

See us for details.

www.zurchersbestone.com

www.facebook.com/zurchersbestone | (800) 589-6172 Only redeemable at this location. Cannot be combined with other offers, promotions, or special pricing.

Zurcher's Best-One Tire & Auto Care is an independent dealer and licensee of M&Z, LLP. Best-One is a servicemark of M&Z, LLP.

custom-made

CABINETS FURNITURE and

Trim, Vanities, Fireplace Mantels, Millwork — Anything Wood You name it, and we’ll do it! Tailored to fit your needs.

STAINED FINISHES GLAZES & PAINTS CRACKLE FINISH DISTRESSING WHITEWASHING

HIGH/MED/LOW LUSTRE Our aim is to build fine, sturdy furniture and cabinets with good quality. We also restore old furniture and resurface cabinets. We’re a home business, done the old-fashioned way, with 14 years of experience — large enough to serve you and small enough to need you!

Come and see us or write to us. Please include a phone number so we may contact you.

D & H WORKSHOP

37

SE

E T S AN

?

TA

CR

S

S

AV ING

Pure

Magic

re

(260) 824-9643

daniels-jewelers.net

2155 N. Main Street Bluffton, IN 46714

Holiday Hours Beginning Dec. 9th: Mon. thru Fri. 9:30-7; Sat. 9:30-5 Open 9:30-3 on Christmas Eve

Your Hometown Jeweler

Good Tidings of Great Joy The year 2013 will soon come to a close. Whether we look ahead For unto you is born with great this day in the city of David a anticipation or Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. apprehension, –from the 2nd chapter of Luke there is always a reason for joy. The birth of Jesus Christ so long ago was also the birth of hope for all mankind. As you say “goodbye” to this year, count your blessings, past and present. Recognize God’s gifts to you. And, as you celebrate the miracle of Christmas with family and friends, determine to keep the hope of Christmas in your heart all year long.

Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Thanking God for the gift of His Son, and for the many other ways in which He has richly blessed our lives through the years, Your Friends at Reimschisel Ford.

REIMSCHISEL

www.blufftonford.com

(260) 824-2300 - 907 N. Main, Bluffton

the gift that glitters

MARKING SPECIAL

EVENTS IN LIFE WITH PIECES OF JEWELRY Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

A

s a young man, Daniel Geimer dreamed of owning his own business. It took years of hard work and training, but Dan realized his dream nearly two decades ago.

Dan first began his career by answering an ad he saw in a Fort Wayne newspaper. He was hired as a manager trainee at Koerber

& Baber Jewelers, a store with locations at Southtown Mall and Glenbrook Square Mall.

Koerber & Baber Jewelers, owned by the Zales Corporation, was part of the Zales’ guild division and a higher-end jewelry store. When he’d completed the manager training program, Daniel was recruited by

39

Kay Jewelers, also located in Glenbrook Square, and managed for that store for eight years.

Working for Kay’s, Daniel moved frequently, managing stores in Illinois and Indiana, before ending up at a North Carolina location. Dan, originally from Decatur, and his wife Jane, a Leo native, decided it was time to move back home to northeast Indiana.

At this time, a friend of Dan’s, who had worked with him at Kay Jewelers, had a job at Gulley’s Jewelers in Fort Wayne’s Southtown Mall. He told Dan that there was an opening at his store if Dan wanted the job. Dan accepted the position.

While Dan was employed at Gulley’s for four years, the thought of starting his own business began to grow, until he decided that this was the path he really wanted to take.

Opening Daniel’s Jewelers in Bluffton, Indiana, in the late 1990s was not easy, and Dan says that he did it on a sort of shoestring budget, at first.

V ELOCITY MOTORS PREMIUM SELECTED USED VEHICLES

‘10 Chevy Impala LTZ - Low Miles

Dan opened the store in a downtown location where his business would grow and expand over the next 16 years. Daniel’s Jewelers’ beginnings were very small, with Dan doing mostly repair work on jewelry.

Today, Dan’s store is located on the north side of Bluffton in the Inter Urban shopping plaza, where he carries a range of jewelry, including designer bridal sets and wedding bands. Dan takes pride in the fact that, in his store, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get something nice. If a customer needs a gift in the fifty-dollar range, Daniel’s has a large selection from which to choose.

With the price of gold going through the roof, Dan has added new lines in different metals, such as sterling silver, Steel X (which is stainless steel), tungsten, titanium, and cobalt chrome, mostly used for men’s wedding bands.

Dan carries a large variety of jewelry pieces from popular designers like Kate McCullar, Rego, Camelot, and Fantasy. He also sells Kameleon Jewelry, which has interchangeable faces that can be “popped” out and replaced with a different design. Dan says these pieces have been tested and have over 7,000 “pops” in them – and, that they hold tight until popped out for a new design.

Daniel’s Jewelers also offers onpremises repair of most jewelry, ring resizing, custom-designed jewelry, and insurance appraisal services.

(260) 824-2165 1750 N. Hwy 1 – Bluffton, Indiana

A 's A Y Y Mid-Century & Modern Decor Every Room Needs a Piece—Choose Color! * 50 Cents Each *

Colorful Crushed Can Ornaments Proceeds to Local Food Kitchen

See the Vintage Nutcracker from Germany!

Tues. to Fri. 10-6 Sat. 10-2 or, by appointment!

112 S. Main, Bluffton IN

260-223-4984

Just south of Courthouse Square

2 Sister’s Glass Garden BEAUTIFUL SOLAR LAWN ART Made with vintage glass Each piece is unique Absolutely stunning at night Shipshewana Flea Market booth 661

41

260-820-2760

135 W Market, Bluffton, IN

Thru December 31 / 11-6 m-f 11-3 sat

Put a Bike Under the Tree!

Chain Reaction

(260)692-1400

bike center

New and Used Bicycles Parts • Repairs • Maintenance Less than ¼ mi. west of Hwy 27 190 W 300 N, Decatur, Indiana

Advance Realty

817 N US 27

Berne, IN 46711

(260)589-8474 www.Century21adv.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Marla Clauser

REALTOR®

Cell (260)849-3303

mclauserc21@gmail.com

MLS

MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

WILMEN’S COUNTRY STORE 421 E 100 S, Monroe, Indiana

Dan is a qualified gemologist and acquired this degree through the Gemological Institute of America.

He also apprenticed to become a goldsmith. With his training and experience, Dan can create brand-new designs, or he can repair or recreate damaged family heirlooms.

In the process of custom designing jewelry, Dan uses wax modeling. First, he creates a design. Then, he carves a model of the design out of wax.

Once the wax model is completed, Dan sends the casting off to be filled with gold. When the gold pieces are returned, Dan polishes them and assembles them to complete his original design. He also sets gemstones into custom pieces. Jewelry is usually very sentimental to people, but sometimes, customers want to alter a piece to make it more modern or more personalized.

Working on and repairing people’s jewelry is something Dan really enjoys about his job. He says that sometimes, when he’s working on something, and it just isn’t going quite right, he puts it aside for a bit, and then comes back to it.

He laughs. “It usually comes together, then. I just had to put it down for a minute and walk away.”

While Dan doesn’t travel to different countries to find gems, he attends gemstone tradeshows and deals strictly with reputable vendors.

1 Mile South & ½ Mile East of Monroe

Quilts Make a Wonderful Christmas Gift! *COME SEE OUR SELECTION*

One major advantage Daniel’s offers over larger chain stores is that, because Dan deals with smaller manufacturers of jewelry, they take the time to make

GIFT CERTIFICATES HANDCRAFTED WOOD ITEMS

Child’s China Hutch

42

Think “HOME for Christmas...” better quality pieces, versus one that supplies larger stores. When Dan sells a piece of jewelry, he will back it up because he knows how well it was made.

Holidays like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Christmas are some of the busiest times of the year at Daniel’s Jewelers. The hardest seasons are the ones where few people are out shopping and don’t come into the store. Dan likes to stay busy and loves the seasons that bring in customers.

Dan says he realizes that jewelry isn’t essential for survival. Jewelry is a luxury.

Surprise Someone with a Gift Certificate for the HOME!

But, his customers become repeat customers because he genuinely cares about them and wants to help them find something special for a loved one – without breaking the bank. He wants the item purchased to be meaningful to his customer and to the person who will receive it.

Dan says that his job is “really cool” because he gets to be a part of all the “happy stuff” in life. Most customers stop in because they are celebrating a milestone or some other special occasion, such as an engagement or a birthday. Dan enjoys helping people find the perfect Christmas or birthday gift.

The jewelry business is a fun business to be in, he says.

CONTACT INFORMATION: 2155 N. Main Street Bluffton, IN 46714 (260) 824-9643

155 E. Buckeye, Berne (260)589-2880 www.bernereadymix.com

A Large Assortment of Housewares Hitzer Heating Products Wicks for ANY Heater!

Joe’s

43

2898 S 000 Rd Monroe, Indiana

Lighting

PRODUCTS

FRIEDRICH HELP US FIND

:

ED T N A W

Friedrich likes to hide.

He appears in a number of hiding places throughout this magazine.

Hint: He especially enjoys hiding in the advertisements!

RD REWA ED! OFFER

FRIEDRICH

See if you can find every hiding spot—then fill out the form below and mail it in for a chance to win!

the Gnome

Win a large pizza from Pizza Hut in Berne!

Congratulations to our November winner!

Jacob Hilty, Jr., Monroe IN

FIND FRIEDRICH CONTEST ENTRY FORM Your Name

Your Street Address

# of Times Friedrich Appears

City, State & Zip

Send Completed Form To:

Wabash Valley Living Contest 346 US Hwy 27 N, Berne, IN 46711 Entry must be received by 12/15/13.

DESIGNER SOLUTIONS!

If Experience and Expertise are important to you...We have Both!

We Know Just What To Do...

Yager Furniture

Mon., Tue., Wed., Thurs., Sat. 9-5 • Fri. 9-8

“

Downtown Berne, Indiana 260.589.3101

www.yagerfurniture.com

” – Ryan DuVall, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette

SEASONAL MARTINI LIST • ESOTERIC WINE LIST • FULL BAR • SPECIAL EVENT ROOM • OUTDOOR TERRACE DINING

“

” — Ryan DuVall, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette

SEASONAL MARTINI LIST • ESOTERIC WINE LIST • FULL BAR • SPECIAL EVENT ROOM • OUTDOOR TERRACE DINING

NOW SERVING LUNCH

“ LIST • ESOTERIC ”— Ryan Wayne Gazette SEASONAL MARTINI WINE LIST • DuVall, FULL BAR •Fort SPECIAL EVENTJournal ROOM • OUTDOOR TERRACE DINING TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS!

“

” — Ryan DuVall, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette NOW SERVING LUNCH 360 N. MAIN STREET, BLUFFTON TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS! 260.353.1360

NOW SERVING LUNCH

DOWNLOAD A QR CODE READER FROM YOUR PHONE’S APP STORE OR GO TO WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM FOR A FREE DOWNLOAD A QR READER! CODE READER FROM YOUR PHONE’S APP STORE OR GO TO DOWNLOAD A QR WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM CODE READER FROM FOR APHONE’S FREE APP YOUR READER! STORE OR GO TO WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM FOR A FREE READER!

TW FABLE GIFT CARDS – Buy Early & Save!

For Every $100 in TW Fable Gift Card Purchases between December 2 - 21, 2013...Receive a $25 Bonus Gift Card!* *Bonus Gift Cards Redeemable between Jan. 2, 2014 & Feb. 8, 2014

LUNCH: TUES. - FRI. 11:30 TO 2 TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS! BOOK ATUES. CHRISTMAS PARTY! 360 N. MAIN STREET, BLUFFTON DINNER: - THURS. 5 TO 9

260.353.1360Hours– Special 360KITCHEN N. MAINDecember STREET, BLUFFTON CLOSES 30 MIN. FRI. - SAT. 5 TO 10

Lunch Tue. thru 11:30-2 LUNCH: TUES. - LOUNGE FRI.Thu. 11:30 TO 2 BEFORE Dinner Mon. thru DINNER: TUES. - THURS.Sat. 5 TO 9 FRI. - SAT. 5Hours– TO11:30 10 TO 2 LUNCH: TUES. - FRI. Holiday DINNER: TUES. THURS. 5 TO KITCHEN CLOSES 30 MIN. Closed Dec. 23-25th & 9 FRI. - SAT.LOUNGE 5 TO 10 BEFORE

260.353.1360

Dec. 30-Jan. 1st

KITCHEN CLOSES 30 MIN. BEFORE LOUNGE

NEED ADVICE? CALL TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION.

—Bankruptcy— —Wills & Estates— —Criminal Law— —Litigation— ERIC D. ORR ATTORNEY AT LAW

346 US Hwy 27 N Berne, Indiana

260.589.2345 www.bernelegal.com

HOCKEY, FIGURE SKATES & IN-LINE ROLLER SKATES

TREASURES

from the past!

Hockey Sticks & Accessories Table Top Hockey Games

PROFESSIONAL VOLLEYBALL NETS & BALLS

Berne

Antique Mall

Schwartz Mfg. LLC

105 W. Water, Berne 260.589.8050 10-5 Mon. thru Sat.

1261 WEST 200 SOUTH Berne, IN 46711

BIG COUPON SAVINGS $5 OFF 1½ LB GIFT BOX OF FUDGE

Exp. 12/24/13

$

7900

VIRUS/SPYWARE REMOVAL EXPIRES 12/31/13

15% OFF TOTAL BILL

Not valid with any other coupon, discount or daily special EXPIRES DEC. 31, 2013

310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN

112 S. Meridian Street , Portland

2250 N. MAIN STREET - BLUFFTON, IN

$1.00 OFF

FREE COUPON SPACE

Any Short or Long Fall Specialty Drink 1 coupon per visit Expires 12/31/13

143 E. Jackson Monroe, IN

10% OFF any purchase expires 12/31/13

Karen’s Treasures 444 E. Main Street, Berne

(260)589-2002

Ask Us How!

260.849.2187

10% OFF Any Purchase

Expires 12/31/13

(260)728-2151

ENGINE HOUSE QUILT SHOP

164 W. Main Street, Berne

FREE Fat Quarter with any $20 purchase when you present this coupon.

EXPIRES 12/31/13

10% OFF

Your Cash Purchase of Leather Goods from

R & C TACK at the Jay Co.

Farm Toy Show 204 W. Votaw St., Portland

Dec. 15, 2013

Jay Co. Fairgrounds

Exceptional Emergency Care In an emergency, you need fast access to healthcare, and at Adams Memorial Hospital our doors are open 24/7 •

•

•

Our team of experienced professionals act quickly to evaluate, diagnose, and administer

treatment for a full range of medical emergencies from minor illnesses and injuries to serious, life-threatening conditions.

New bedside registration to provide a speedier and more confidential registration process.

AMH benefits from a staff of long-term physicians, nurses, and technicians.

With few exceptions, they live and work in our community.

Exceptional Care! Close To You! 1100 Mercer Avenue Decatur, IN 260-724-2145 www.adamshospital.com