Wabash Valley Living December 2014 Edition

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DECEMBER 2014

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INJURED? The Orthopaedic Team at Adams Memorial Has You Covered!

Dr. Aaron Coats, left Dr. David Coats, right

A familiar name with a different face has been added to the medical staff of Adams Memorial Hospital. Dr. Aaron Coats, brother of AMH orthopaedic surgeon Dr. David Coats, has recently joined the surgical staff at Adams Memorial Hospital and will specialize in orthopaedics and sports medicine.

Dr. Aaron Coats obtained his medical degree from the IU School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Grand Rapids Medical Education program through Michigan State University, and has done fellowships in sports training and orthopaedic sports medicine at the University of Kentucky. He is also Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery.

Both Doctors will be affiliated with the Adams Orthopaedics office in Decatur. Dr. Aaron Coats specializes in orthopaedic surgery with a specific interest in adult and pediatric shoulder and knee disorders, arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, and treating meniscus and cartilage injuries of the knee through both surgical and non-surgical procedures.

ANNOUNCING...Is your athlete experiencing pain of the shoulder, elbow, ankle, knee or other? Let our ADAMS SPORTS CLINIC STAFF provide a FREE INJURY EVALUATION! MONDAYS: 2-4pm AT ADAMS ORTHO CLINIC. Located in the Adams Medical Complex on the AMH Campus!

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WABASH VALLEY

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Editor................................... Amy M. Orr Contributors....................... Dee Fisher Lori Hoeppner

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2014

Lori Linebaugh Sylvia Marbach Amy M. Orr Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy Deb Ross Vol. 6, No. 12, December 2014 © Wabash Valley Living, 2014. Published monthly since June 2009.

Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

5

Berne Antique Mall | Berne, IN

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

9

Ciao Bella Boutiques | St. Henry, OH

13

Forgotten Children | Bluffton, IN

Wabash Valley Living is printed by:

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

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A Perfect Blend Adams Memorial Hospital Anytime Fitness Berne Chamber of Commer Biggs Property Manage BKM Real Estate Bluffton Regional Medical Calico Café Century 21 Advance Realty Chain Reaction Bike Classics Plus Auto Courtyard Lakes Villas D L Schwartz Co Decatur Self-Storage Earthen Treasures Natural East of Chicago Edelweiss Floral Engine House Quilt Shop Family Ford of Bluffton Geels Backhoe Gersh's Carpet Cleaning Grounds & Grains Helen Woodard's Yager Hilty's Furniture Joe's Lighting Products Karen's Treasures Liechty Brothers Plumbing Locker's Touch of Country Marla Clauser Miller's Variety MR Planners

16 2 28 11 21 19 48 32 8 20 38 33 10 34 39 7 4 40 28 20 43 15 42 45 20 26 44 38 32 36 18

New Look Exteriors 12 Next Page Bookstore 19 Nicholson Family Dental 14 Pizza King of Decatur 25 Porter-Takats 37 Richards Jewelry 34 River Terrace Retirement 15 Saltbox Home Furnishings 12 Schwartz Manufacturing 36 Schwartz Shoe Store 26 Sharlette's Fudgery & 38 Shetler's Housewares 31 Simon's Manufacturing 7 State Farm Steve Rich 45 Swiss City Nutrition & Fit 8 Swiss Village Retirement 6 Swiss Woodworking 37 Swissland Cheese 40 The Crafty Corner 11 The Gathering House 32 the Homeplace 21 Troxel Equipment 26 TW Fable Restaurant 4 Van Wert Co 4-H Exchange 31 Van Wert CVB 33 Velocity Motors 43 Villa Lanes/224 Pub & Grill 25 Willow Creek Store 4 Willshire Home Furnishings 39 Ya Ya's Mid-Century to 16 Zurcher's Best-One Tire 30

17

Treasures from the Past Strengthen Ties

Trendy and Affordable Ladies' Clothing

Group Reaches Out to World's Orphans

Next Page Bookstore | Decatur, IN

New Stories and Flavors to Enjoy

22

CALENDAR OF AREA EVENTS

29

Slusher's Jewelry | Van Wert, OH

35

Remember When | Portland, IN

41

Decatur SBA | Decatur, IN

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FIND FRIEDRICH CONTEST

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COUPON OFFERS

Custom Designs, Quality and Personal Service

Celebrating Nearly a Decade in Business

Keeping It Local

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COUPON SAVINGS Page 47!

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BERNE ANTIQUE MALL Treasures from the Past Strengthen Ties

Article and Photos by Sylvia Marbach

T

he holiday season is not only a time to show appreciation for loved ones through actions, words, and gifts; it’s also a time to remember those we’ve lost. Renee Captain, owner of Berne Antique Mall, located on West Water Street in downtown Berne, knows this first-hand. She lost her mother-in-law, Diana, only two years ago.

It was Diana who introduced Renee to antiques.

Renee was very close to her mother-in-law, and she adopted many of the Captain family traditions. Diana and her family enjoyed collecting, and at Christmas time, collectibles and antiques were often given and received as

gifts. Renee and her mother-in-law eventually began collecting dolls and bears together.

Seventeen years ago, Renee and Diana shared a booth at the Yodeling Village in Berne, selling a variety of antiques and collectibles together. Bob Bieberstein, owner of the Yodeling Village, had decided to sell the business, which comprised a restaurant and multi-level antique mall.

After looking for another place to rent booth space, Renee and Diana decided to purchase the Yodeling Village. They converted the entire building to retail space and selected the name Berne Antique Mall.

WVL December 2014 / 5

Having graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in consumer and family sciences, Renee wanted to follow the path both her parents, Don and Colleen Keller, and mother-in-law had chosen: education. But, she says, the shop quickly grew on her.

“Starting up the business was exciting,” Renee recalls. She wasn’t completely unprepared for the

position. Renee’s family had also operated a business of their own as she was growing up, and she had learned a lot about managing money while attending classes at Purdue.

Renee and Diana operated the business together successfully for 15 years. Although owning a business together could be trying at times, it helped to further deepen the ladies’ already strong relationship.

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When Diana passed away unexpectedly in 2012, resuming her role at Berne Antique Mall was difficult for Renee. She considered selling the shop, but instead, stuck with it, and today, she’s glad she did.

Renee’s favorite part of owning Berne Antique Mall is the people she meets. She loves interacting with customers. Renee has learned enough from her mother-inlaw and is able to use the Internet as a resource for pricing and determining the value of an item.

According to Renee, the industry has changed over the past 17 years. Prices and values of certain items have gone up or down. Renee says she used to be able to predict what items would be popular during the holiday season but now finds that it’s pretty unpredictable.

However, unpredictability is a part of Renee’s work at Berne Antique Mall.

“There’s no such thing as a normal day,” she explains.

You can find Renee in the store on Fridays and Saturdays, making sure everything is in order and helping out with customers.

When she’s not physically present, Renee contributes by searching for antiques and managing the finances.

Renee goes to auctions and garage sales to purchase unique and valuable antiques for the store, and some items come from estates or consignment, as well. And, a number of vendors keep store booths stocked with unusual and interesting pieces.

Berne Antique Mall offers booths available for people to sell their antiques, providing a deep and wide variety of collectibles and memorabilia to customers.

Just as Diana and her family regularly purchased antiques and collectibles to give as Christmas gifts, Renee suggests this is a great way to find something special for a loved one. A vintage toy the person played with as a child can bring back treasured memories. Renee cherishes the nostalgia that antiques can stir up in herself and in others.

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While some pieces are beautiful or nostalgic for displaying, many can be useful, as well! A beautiful cut glass bowl may be the gift that keeps on giving – it may be used in a variety of ways, whether decorative or practical, all the while reminding the loved one of the giver every time they use it. Some antiques can also be considered an investment, as they increase in value over time.

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Another use for gifted antiques during the holiday season – or any time of the year – is for decorating purposes. “DIY (doit-yourself) projects are becoming very popular,” Renee comments.

Old typewriters, radios, and photos can be used to add interest in a room, and plenty of ideas can be found on the Internet. With the time and effort spent in searching for and altering the right item, the gift of an antique piece becomes even more valuable.

When buying gifts for someone who collects a particular item, Renee recommends knowing what to look for – whether it be the year, model, or type of item they collect. This is an easy way to bring a smile to a collector’s face.

Renee’s store has a personal touch with staff who are willing to help shoppers find what they’re looking for. “We have husbands coming shopping for last-minute gifts for their wives, just like any other store,” Renee jokes.

Although Renee has no children of her own, she admits, “I have nieces and nephews that I spoil.” Renee’s loved ones will be receiving special gifts this Christmas season, and yours can, too!

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8 / WVL December 2014

CIAO BELLA BOUTIQUE Trendy and Affordable Ladies’ Clothing

Article by Amy M. Orr

F

ort Recovery, Ohio native Renee Rosenbeck has been working in retail and customer service jobs since age 16.

She became “really interested in clothing” during college but never thought about opening a clothing business until she was pregnant with her third child.

“Cute, fashionable (maternity) clothing was so hard to find without ordering online – or, without being dressed like at least one other expecting mother at nearly any event I was at,” Renee explains. “I wanted to provide

adorable clothing for expectant mothers locally, and from there, the concept grew to styling all shapes, sizes and stages of women’s lives.

“It’s challenging in all stages of life to find gorgeous clothing that fits our bodies and our unique style. Ciao Bella Boutique was created to meet those demands.”

Renee says her past work experiences came in handy as she slowly launched her boutique online. She began with jewelry in February

WVL December 2014 / 9

D. L. Schwartz Co. Farm & Home Supplie 2014 and says2188 the first shipment of clothing Renee’s picked up the Italian S. US Hwy. 27children Union forks, arrived on her doorstep in St. Henry, Ohio at expression, “Ciao,▪bella!” from oneshovels of their & hoes ▪ Repair handles Stovepipe ▪ Me Berne, IN 46711 the end of March. favorite Mickey Mouse cartoons.

“It▪means,

‘Hello, beautiful!’ Grinders and I loved&that they▪were parts Horseshoeing “The boutique was online only, with a saying, ‘Ciao, bella!’ to everyone they saw. supplies ▪ Horse training headsta monthly shopping event, until November, Anvilsmy▪ boutique, Oil lamps ▪ Coleman See ourshop assortment LEDthat when I▪ started when I launched a temporary until my of “I knew Ciao repair parts ▪ Pressure cookers & Bella would be the name because I wanted permanent locationbattery becomes lamps available.” and headlights.

parts ▪ Parmak fencers ▪ and mu more…..

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every woman that came into the shop to know they are beautiful. My hope was – and still is – to change how we as women look at ourselves.”

The Crafty Corner

Renee says women tend to be overly critical of their figures and other physical traits. “My goal with each customer is to make them feel beautiful and help them to express themselves through clothing. When we are free to express ourselves, we become more comfortable in our own skin – and, that is truly beautiful.

“I love helping customers step outside of their realm of comfort with clothing. It is great to see ladies wearing more color and different styles and celebrating all of their curves.

“The most challenging part of my business is hearing how women talk about themselves when they try something on – or before they even try it on. I hope that I can teach women to love and flaunt their curves, even if I can only do it one customer at a time.”

Ciao Bella Boutique carries ladies clothing in sizes small through 3X, including maternity, postpartum and nursing styles. Renee selects styles that are both trendy and affordable. “As a mother, I know how hard it can be to dress fashionably yet modest – and keep it all within a budget – so I am mindful of these things when selecting items for the shop.”

A grand opening event celebrated Ciao Bella Boutique’s new storefront in early November. Renee has already benefitted from the move. “Having a brick-and-mortar location has given me a place to work on the business outside of the home and allows for separation between the two, which is great.”

Renee admits that balancing a business with motherhood can be difficult. The mother of three also works a full-time job, in addition to her responsibilities at

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Ciao Bella Boutique, so time with her daughters is a precious commodity. “I take time to listen to what happened during their day and to be silly with them. I take each of them out on “mommy dates” regularly so no matter how busy I am, they know I’m always available.”

The business is still relatively new, but Renee is excited at possibilities for the future. “Having the new location has also allowed me to work with Shoptiques out of New York City and to be featured as one of their handselected boutiques.

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“Ciao Bella will be going live on Shoptiques.com very soon. We will be one of only nine in Ohio – and one of five-hundred worldwide – to be featured on their shopping site. It is very exciting!”

Renee believes that the only way to change society’s concept of beauty is to “teach little girls and women to love themselves and to see the beauty in all shapes and sizes.” She offers this challenge: “Give a complete stranger a compliment, and see how it changes their demeanor. It’s amazing how something so small can make such an impact.”

Ciao Bella Boutique is open for business from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.

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The Saltbox

CHRISTMAS Please join us at The Saltbox for Primitive Seasonal Decorating – Santas, Snowmen, Christmas Stockings, Candles, Tree Decorations – and Everyday Items for Your Home!

CONTACT INFORMATION: 341A E. Main Street St. Henry, OH (419) 367-1930 www.ciaobellaboutiqueohio.com

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Hope to see you

12 / WVL December 2014

FORGOTTEN CHILDREN Group Reaches Out to World’s Orphans

Article by Amy M. Orr

M

att and Barb Hartsell got a heartwrenching, first-hand view of the plight of orphans around the world when they traveled to Russia to adopt their daughter Allyson. The experience awakened a desire in Matt to help children who’d been “forgotten” by their society.

In a small space in the basement of Hope Missionary Church, volunteers packed and shipped boxes of children’s clothing to orphanages in Russia. Over time, the ministry evolved into an interdenominational non-profit and, in 2007, was renamed Forgotten Children Worldwide.

The Hartsells adopted another daughter, Tiffani, overseas and worked with street children during several missions trips to Romania. Matt’s desire to provide for orphans grew. Sharing his vision for an orphan care ministry, Matt received a check for $500, which he used to establish God Will Make a Way Ministries.

Today, Forgotten Children Worldwide is headquartered on North Main Street in Bluffton.

As the name suggests, orphan care is still the focus of the organization.

“With over 150 million orphans,” says Matt, “the need is desperate.” He adds, “When you combine

WVL December 2014 / 13

vulnerable children with desperate poverty and a corrupt government, you have the toxic soup that child trafficking thrives in.

“We can’t save all the children, but we must try to save some.”

According to Matt, there are millions of boys and girls currently “in the grasp of heartbreaking trafficking.” This number includes those confined to bonded labor or trapped in sex slavery.

“Our vision is to safeguard children from poverty and to protect them from trafficking– while introducing them to the love of Jesus Christ. We strive to provide hope and life transformation for the ‘least of these.’”

Forgotten Children Worldwide’s volunteers and partners donate time and resources to assist orphans around the globe, including the countries of Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, and Zimbabwe in Africa, and Nepal and India in Asia.

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The organization assists “partners” in these countries who are caring for orphans. “In fact,” Matt explains, “this is what Forgotten Children Worldwide does best – finding people who are already making a difference in assisting orphans and vulnerable children but need additional resources and guidance to provide maximum care for the desperate, forgotten children of the world.”

As in the beginning, Forgotten Children Worldwide continues to collect clothing for children, sending it to orphans in other countries. “Hundreds of volunteers come to our headquarters to pack donated used clothing,” Matt says. “The clothing is shipped to India and Ukraine.

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“Today, more than 300 million children do not have a single pair of shoes. That is not acceptable.

“We are grateful for those who donate clothing and for those who volunteer their time to pack and ship it. This year, over 50,000 pounds of clothing will be shipped to assist children – that’s a lot of clothing.”

Next, Forgotten Children Worldwide offers child sponsorships. Individuals, families, churches and even businesses can sponsor a child for just $25 per month. This financial support provides for an orphan’s health care, shelter and other basic needs, and education.

Forgotten Children Worldwide also funds, oversees and assists in the construction of orphan homes. To date, homes have been built in India, Kenya, Ukraine, Thailand and South Africa.

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While Forgotten Children Worldwide has helped to establish these orphan homes, the goal is to enable the partners in those areas to become self-sustaining. “We do this by providing means for them to generate income,” Matt explains.

“This can be accomplished in small ways, like providing goats or cows or chickens – we have even provided buses – for partners to use in generating a recurring income and invest the earnings into the orphans in their care.”

In 2012, Forgotten Children Worldwide helped to provide two water buffalo to a

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WVL December 2014 / 15

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woman whose daughter, Anju, had been living in one of its homes in India. The family income doubled as the mother, who once earned her living as a temple prostitute, began selling milk and cream.

When the pair of water buffalo reproduced, Anju’s mother was able to purchase two goats and two cows – further increasing their potential income. She also had the funds to send Anju to pre-university. The family is now self-sufficient.

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Forgotten Children Worldwide is primarily dependent upon individual donors and corporate donations. Forgotten Friends is a campaign for supporters who wish to make regular monetary donations. “We are always looking for businesses to come alongside to support us on a recurring basis,” Matt adds.

Forgotten Children Worldwide staff also appreciate invitations to speak at churches and clubs. Or, supporters may host private parties at home to help raise awareness and collect donations. Gently-used children’s clothing is needed, as are volunteers for packing clothing.

This holiday season, shop at the organization’s self-sustainability retail store, located at Forgotten Children Worldwide’s headquarters. All sales at Heshima (Swahili for “dignity”) help girls learn a skill or earn a university education so they can generate incomes once they age out of the Forgotten Children program. The shop is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and features a variety of hand-crafted items, including jewelry and scarves.

Matt says, “Forgotten Children Worldwide needs you. We need your skills, your prayers, and your donations. Working together, we can make a difference.”

CONTACT INFORMATION: 650 N. Main Street Bluffton, IN 46714 (260) 353-1580 www.forgottenchildren.org

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16 / WVL December 2014

NEXT PAGE BOOKSTORE New Stories and Flavors to Enjoy

Article and Photos by Dee Fisher

P

icture this scene: a young farm boy in southwestern Ohio is sent to the well for a bucket of water. The well is at the bottom of a hill, a bit of walk from the house. The boy’s attention totally on the book he is reading.

The boy walks down the hill, rinses out the bucket, and walks back to his mother in the house – clean bucket, no water!

That young boy was my father, a true bibliophile his entire life. My father never met a book he didn’t like, or at least appreciate.

He and I shared a love for the printed page, and we were always on the lookout for bookstores, especially the smaller, “momand-pop” stores. It seemed there were always more interesting books at the small stores – sometimes, older works that were we’d never seen but that appealed to our literary tastes.

WVL December 2014 / 17

In smaller towns, bookstores are few and far between. They seem to be found in either larger cities or college towns. In Decatur, Indiana, there is an exception to this general rule – The Next Page Bookstore & More.

Est. 1975

In 2005, Rick Sorvine was working on a project for a college business class he was attending. It had to do with creating a business plan for a bookstore. Rick had always wanted to own a business, so he and his wife Emily

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decided to take his class assignment one step further and actually open a bookstore.

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Emily’s major contribution was her insistence on having a small cafe with the store. “People like to sit and drink their coffee – and even eat their lunch – while they read their books and magazines. I knew that we had to have the two together,” Emily states.

So, they began to sell books and magazines and sandwiches and coffee and soft drinks, as well as holding down full time jobs outside the business. Before long, the bookstore was enjoying success.

After a few years, Rick and Emily decided to take another big step and purchase their own building for the business. “I have always liked the ‘idea’ of downtown – revitalizing the existing buildings and promoting the smalltown atmosphere in Decatur,” Rick says.

“When the old Niblick Building came up for sale in 2009, we decided to step out in faith and move our business and our home there.” The Niblick Building is a historic downtown Decatur landmark, built in 1876, and was the home of the Niblick Department store for many years.

The Sovines now live on the second floor of the Niblick Building with their two children, ages 4 and 7, while the ground floor houses both the Next Page Bookstore and the Niblick Downtown Bistro. The Bistro has become a real draw to the downtown area in recent months. Judy and Seth Secaur rent the space from the Sovines and operate a full-service restaurant, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner to their patrons, as well as coffees and teas to suit the bookworm’s taste!

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208 W. Monroe Street Decatur, IN 46733

(260) 301-3970

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“In the beginning, we operated the cafe portion of the business ourselves,” Rick remarks. “However, after a time, it wasn’t feasible for us to run the print business, the cafe, and also have time for our family and other jobs. So, when opportunity came knocking in the form of the Secaurs, we opened the door!”

Judy ran the successful catering service, A Taste of Class, for more than twenty years before joining forces with her son, Seth, to operate this fun little cafe. Seth adds his own individual flair with recipes and techniques he learned in culinary school. Together, they add a homey flavor to the comfortable ambiance of Next Page.

The bookstore itself boasts new and gently-used books, both fiction and nonfiction, for many different interests.

Each different section is carefully labeled and kept neat and tidy, making locating just the right book quite easy.

And, if the book or author you’re looking for isn’t there, Rick and Emily will order it specially for you. “We ship in books overnight by special order, and we even drop-ship directly to the customer, especially if the customer can’t make it into town every day,” Rick explains.

Next Page features a large selection of children’s books and toys. Recognizing that the children of today are tomorrow’s adult readers, the Sovines have a wideranging array of books for younger readers, as well as chapter books for older children. Their own children have a say in what books are purchased for this section!

Many of Next Page’s used books are purchased directly from customers for cash or store credit. “It’s nothing to have

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20 / WVL December 2014

a truck pull up outside, full of books for sale,” says Rick. “We spend a lot of time combing through the used books and adding them to our collection.”

Used books also include rare editions.

There is a special cabinet just for books that are one-of-a-kind or no longer in great supply.

If you live outside Decatur or just don’t get there very often, Next Page offers both an online bookstore and an eBay store. You can purchase books, movies, ebooks, and music online and have it shipped to your own home for prices comparable to such huge online stores as Amazon. Rare and unique books are often auctioned off at their eBay store.

Rick says that they truly “enjoy being a part of downtown Decatur.” He adds, “Sales have continued to grow since our move downtown. Niblicks Bistro brings in quite a bit of out-of-town business.

“One of the more interesting groups that we’ve seen a lot of are RVers having their rigs serviced here in Decatur.

They have the potential of making our business expand into a larger part of the country.”

The Next Page Bookstore & More is located on West Monroe Street. They maintain an online presence with a website at www.npbookstore.com and on Facebook.

CONTACT INFORMATION: 208 W. Monroe Street Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 301-4835 www.npbookstore.com

See our Facebook page!

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WVL December 2014 / 21

136 N. 2nd St., Downtown Decatur 260.728.9794

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AREA EVENTS CALENDAR

1st Mom's Support Group 1:00 p.m.

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

Poetry Coterie

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

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

General Computer Help Session 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

Feel the Warmth of Christmas 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Call for Details Dunkirk, Indiana (765) 768-1041

Santa Visits the Library 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

Musical Monday 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

2nd 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

WorkOne Adult Basic Education Continues 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

22 / WVL December 2014

Tot Candy Cane Hunt

Weight Watchers Meeting

Blood Pressure Checks

Kids Club

Wassenberg Artists' Art Sale Continues

Scrooge: The Musical Continues

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145 6:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

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

8:00 p.m.

Van Wert Civic Theatre Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9689

PJ Story Hour

6:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

5th Christmas Movie Matinee & Hot Chocolate

Needles, Hooks & Pins

2:00 p.m.

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

eReader/iPad Fair

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

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

3

rd

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

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

4th Moms' Morning Out 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

LEGO Club

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

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

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

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

LEGO Club

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

Ouabache State Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 468-2127

Holiday Lights at the Fair Continues 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Van Wert Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378

6th Bryant Craft Show 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Community Building Bryant, Indiana (260) 997-6418

Planes: Fire & Rescue 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

Christmas Tree Festival Continues 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Delphos Canal Museum Delphos, Ohio (419) 695-7737

Festival of Trees Opens

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

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

Nativity Festival

1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Trinity Methodist Church Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4816

7th Nativity Festival

12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Trinity Methodist Church Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4816

Santa at the Pavilion

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

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

White Christmas: The Musical

5:00 p.m.

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

8th

The Nutcracker

Brown Bag Book Club

Christmas in the Mansion Opens

Mom's Support Group

2:00 p.m.

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

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

Museum Candlelight Tours 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

Trinity Christmas Dinner Theatre 6:00 p.m.

Trinity Friends Family Life Ctr Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-2660

White Christmas: The Musical

7:00 p.m.

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

The Nutcracker

7:30 p.m.

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

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

1:00 p.m.

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

Common Vitamins & Herbs: Healthy or Harmful?

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

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

9th Blood Pressure Clinic 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

McDonald's Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Blood Pressure Clinic 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Richard's Restaurant Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Blood Pressure Checks 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

Computer Club

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

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

iPad Club

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

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

eReader/iPad Fair 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

Sharpie Art

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 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 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

A Peter White Christmas 7:30 p.m.

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

10th

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

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

11th Moms' Morning Out 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

JL Trekkers

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

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

WVL December 2014 / 23

Weight Watchers Meeting

Christmas Crafts

Blood Pressure Checks

Homemade Card Class

Limberlost Christmas

Free BINGO

Making Healthy Holiday Treats

Christmas at the Museum

Mom's Support Group

Saturday Afternoon at the Movies

All Books Considered Book Discussion

Saturday Night at the Village

Christmas Craft

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

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

12th Free Healthy Cooking Class 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

Email Help Session 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

Christmas Tree Walk

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Swiss Village Main Entrance Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

Kenny Rogers Christmas 7:30 p.m.

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

13th Breakfast with Santa 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Sassafras on Main Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5589

Homespun Holidays Craft & Vendor Show 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

John Jay Center for Learning Portland, Indiana bahun2000@yahoo.com

24 / WVL December 2014

10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Berne Public Library Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2809 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Limberlost Visitor Center Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7428

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

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

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

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

7:00 p.m.

Swiss Village Auditorium Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

14th Christmas Family Festivities Day

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

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

Van Wert Area Boy Choir Christmas Concert 2:00 p.m.

First Baptist Church Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-1962

Handel's Messiah

7:00 p.m.

First United Methodist Church Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-0631

15th Jay County Farm Toy Show 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

12:30 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877 1:00 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877 1:00 p.m.

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

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

Holiday Ice Spectacular 7:30 p.m.

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

16th Senior BINGO 8:30 a.m.

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

Blood Pressure Checks 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

JL Crew Christmas Party 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

Kids Club

6:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

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

(260)728-2151

17th

310 E. Monroe

Needles, Hooks & Pins

Decatur, IN

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

Paws and Claus

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

18th

Named Business of the Year by the Decatur Chamber of Commerce!

SMORGASBORD LUNCH: Mon. thru Fri. 11a.m. - 1p.m. | Sun. 11a.m. - 1:30p.m.

SMORGASBORD DINNER:

Moms' Morning Out

Tues., Thurs., & Sat. 5p.m. - 9p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

15% OFF TOTAL BILL –when you present the coupon on page 47–

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

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

LEGO Club

Weight Watchers Meeting

12

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Pub & est Grill w o B u rg

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1704 Nuttman Ave Decatur, IN 260-724-3660

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

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

MENU

Pub & Grill ow

B

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

LOWER PRICES FREE Appetizer t

Cookie Exchange

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224

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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Winter Wonderland

Celebrate Our

12

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

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

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T ers in

1704 Nuttman Ave Decatur, IN 260-724-3660

with the Purchase of An Entree Limit One Free Appetizer Per Bill Expires 01/31/15

WVL December 2014 / 25

19th LEGO Club

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

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

Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr.

K123 Club

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

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

23rd Blood Pressure Clinic

7:30 p.m.

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

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

McDonald's Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

20

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

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

th

December Dash 5K & Jingle Bell Jog with Santa 9:00 a.m.

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

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

Candy Cane 5K & Fun Run 2:00 p.m.

Riverside Center Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2520

22nd Mom's Support Group 1:00 p.m.

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

Board Games & Cards 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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

Game Day

Blood Pressure Clinic 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Richard's Restaurant Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Blood Pressure Checks 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

Create with LEGOs 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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

24th Christmas Eve Services 6:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

Swiss Heritage Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8007

29th Winter Break Crafts 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

Mom's Support Group 1:00 p.m.

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

Kids Movie

2:00 p.m.

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

Board Games & Cards 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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

30th

New Year Super LEGO Challenge 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

Movie & Popcorn 3:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

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

31st

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

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

Get Creative

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

Limberlost New Year's Eve 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Limberlost Visitor Center Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7428

Make a Craft

3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS from John Deere

Rugged JOHN DEERE Toys are Built for Tough Fun! Sturdy, die-cast scale models of the real thing, these toys really hold up in the rough-and-tumble world of today’s kids.

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BLUFFTON 5068 E 100 N (260) 565-3659 1-800-876-9351

HUNTINGTON 4777 W 500 N (260) 356-7958 1-888-876-9352

WABASH 983 N. St. Rd. 13 (260) 563-1149 1-888-876-9353

Website: www.troxelequipment.com E-Mail: troxel@troxelequipment.com

Schwartz Shoe Store 555 E 300 S, Monroe IN 1½ miles east of US 27 on County Road 300 South.

RED WING SHOES & IRISH SETTER BRAND

Karen’s Treasures (260) 589-2002

444 E. Main Street, Berne Open 10-5:30 M • Th • F /9-1:30+ Sa

New & Used

Home Furnishings

Antiques • Collectibles

Mattresses by Englander Amish Made Furniture

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SLUSHER’S JEWELRY Custom Designs, Quality and Personal Service

Article by Dee Fisher

D

o you know the old song “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend?” Most women love to wear beautiful jewelry, and of course, they absolutely adore receiving elegant and sparkling gifts to place about their necks and fingers.

I would, however, like to make a small change in those classic lyrics. It isn’t diamonds that are a woman’s friend; it’s her courteous neighborhood jeweler!

One Van Wert County native, Tim Slusher, has spent his professional life being that “neighborhood jeweler.” This jeweler provides not only beautiful pieces of art to wear, but also the customer service that is sometimes sorely lacking in internet and “big-box” store jewelry sales.

“One thing the internet does not have is a face,” Tim says, “which means when you buy online you often don’t receive personal

WVL December 2014 / 29

customer service, nor do you receive the quality you would receive from a personal jeweler. You always get what you pay for.

from the Crestview school system in 1991 and attended Wright State University (Celina campus) and IPFW in Fort Wayne.

“If it seems like too good a deal, then it is.”

Tim’s career in gemology (the science and study of precious stones) began in the summer of 1993 when he worked for a large jewelry store in the Glenbrook Mall in Fort Wayne. “I

Tim grew up in the small village of Wren in eastern Van Wert County. He graduated

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worked there for one month and hated the job.

“I was in Van Wert one day that summer and stopped into another local jeweler’s store. I honestly didn’t know them, and they didn’t know me, but they happened to be looking for a sales associate and engraver. I could do both those things, so I applied for the job, and two weeks later I began working for them. I stayed there two years.”

While he was working in Van Wert, Tim formally studied gemology through a program with the Gemological Institute of America. In September 1995, Tim and his new bride, Jennifer, opened Slusher’s Jewelry.

Currently, Slusher’s Jewelry has three employees, one of whom is studying for her own certification in the jewelry world. The business is located on State Route 118 (Shannon Street) in Van Wert and has seen consistent sales growth every year.

When you walk into Slusher’s, you will immediately be impressed by the large collection of unique and innovative jewelry on display. There are both men’s and women’s fashions – from bridal sets, fashion rings, earrings and pendants, and attractive bracelets and watches, to custom designs that come from both customers’ ideas and the many jewelry trade shows that they attend.

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“We select each and every piece of jewelry in our cases. This gives us unrivaled quality control over what we sell.

“Every piece is inspected and subjected to strict quality controls that allow us to offer every customer satisfaction from every perspective of the purchase, from the choice of gemstones to polishing and finishing, and service before

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and after the sale.” Tim adds, “The difference we offer is quality products and personal service.”

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Slusher’s Jewelry remains a company devoted to serving each customer completely and individually. “Just like all things do, the jewelry business continues to evolve and change. With those changes come challenges. One of our bigger challenges is competing with both big-box stores and the internet.

“One question I ask myself often is, ‘What can I offer that is different from what a large store or the internet can offer?’ The answer to that is customdesigned jewelry.”

Tim specializes in creating custom designs based on customer needs and wants. He sits down with each client to learn what they would like the finished product to look like, as well as what event or milestone the piece is commemorating and what types of gem stones the client would like included in the piece.

Then, Tim makes drawings to show the customer, progressing next to a wax mold, and then a cast in metal. Finally, he sets the gems in the metal cast to create the finished product.

“One of my great joys is seeing the look on the client’s face with they see their custom-designed piece for the first time!”

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As you may imagine, a large part of the business at Slusher’s is devoted to couples purchasing their engagement and wedding bands. Many of these pieces are also custom-designed.

Tim remarks, “Several years ago, I designed a platinum and diamond ring for a couple from Connecticut who were getting married. The bride wanted me to use her great-grandmother’s ring that was one hundred years old!

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32 / WVL December 2014

“When we were finished with the design, her wedding band was a perfect match.”

Working through his internet presence – especially Facebook – Tim has designed jewelry for customers in such far-flung places as San Diego, California; Georgia; Columbus, Ohio; and even a small island off the coast of Alaska. “I am grateful for every customer that walks in our door or that I meet online,” says Tim. “I want them to have a pleasant experience that they will talk about to their family and friends.”

Besides custom designing, Tim also spends a lot of time in jewelry repair – anything from soldering broken chains to replacing lost diamonds or restoring heirloom jewelry. Tim strives to work with each customer’s specific problem and goes to great lengths to restore their treasures.

So, what are you getting for your significant other this Christmas?

Maybe you’re wanting a beautiful set of earrings for your mother, a watch for your father, or a lovely necklace as a first piece for a daughter. Perhaps you’d like to pass a treasured brooch on to the next generation, but you’d like to update it for a fresh look.

Whatever your need in fine jewelry, Slusher’s Jewelry in Van Wert should be your destination. They are open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

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REMEMBER WHEN Celebrating Nearly a Decade in Business

Article and Photos by Lori Linebaugh

A

quick decision by Cindy Shawver and her daughter Missy Puterbaugh in 2005 ushered in the beginnings of a shop called Remember When in Portland, Indiana.

The ladies’ spontaneous move has turned a hobby and passion into much more. While owning a small business comes with plenty of work, Cindy and Missy enjoy being one of three stores in the area that sell primitive items, as well as décor and antiques.

Cindy was born and raised in Jay County. In 2005, she was preparing to retire when a historic home became available at auction. Drawn by

the dramatic staircase in the front room, Cindy and Missy quickly decided the house would be the perfect location for a shop.

In a matter of just six days, Cindy retired from her job, purchased the home at auction, and decided to open a primitive, home décor and antiques store. Cindy has always loved antiques and decorating, and this home became a way for Cindy and Missy to turn their common interests into a business.

The ladies spent the winter working on repairing and restoring the inside of the home,

WVL December 2014 / 35

which was built in 1900. In the spring of 2006, they continued their work on the outside of the home by re-siding it. Remember When opened in 2006.

The variety of unique items offered for sale at Remember When have been hand-selected

by Cindy and Missy. The two travel to local

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auctions to purchase antiques, and a statement piece located in the front room was saved from a local home’s porch and repurposed. Cindy and Missy also travel to Columbus, Ohio four times a year to purchase antiques and primitive items.

Cindy enjoys creating displays and decorating the shop. Cindy’s passion for decorating shines

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As you enter the front door, you are welcomed by the grand staircase. The original woodwork in the shop also lends to a feeling of being “at home” at Remember When. Every room in the house is decorated, including the two bathrooms.

Ascending the grand staircase, you’ll find the bedrooms are also decorated.

Uncharacteristic of homes from the 1900s, each bedroom has its own closet.

Every bedroom at Remember When has a different theme.

Cindy advises that one is not required to use an item for its originally-intended purpose when decorating. A display in the bathtub of the upstairs bathroom at Remember When is a perfect example.

While most would not be able to use their bathtub as a display area, it goes to show that with some imagination, a piece can be transformed into something completely different.

The best-selling products at Remember When, according to Cindy, are Crossroads candles, as well as small decorative items.

Customers enjoy the candles because of the clean-burning wax and the wonderful scents. Small decorative items are popular because they are so easily displayed in a home.

With the holidays approaching, Remember When has many different selections that are perfect for gift-giving.

Cindy’s favorite type of gift item is one that can be used for decorating. Small or large, Remember When has lots of choices in all price points.

Cindy and Missy also offer advice and suggestions to customers who have decorating questions. They try to help a customer envision how an item will look in their own home. They also give ideas on various ways to display pieces.

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Cindy believes her local business gives customers the personal attention they may not receive at larger establishments.

Cindy and Missy are invested in helping customers, and they care about every person that enters the shop.

The ladies are very active in the community, as well. They enjoy donating (gift certificates, usually) to local organizations, including the Special Olympics, Jay County Cancer Society, and Arts Place, to name a few, for fundraising events. Cindy and Missy find it important to give back to their community.

Missy is also currently the clerk of city court in Portland, as well as working in real estate and at Loy’s sale barn.

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The mother and daughter team believe in following the Golden Rule, and they also take pride in the friendships they have made throughout the years. Some of these friends have happened upon Remember When as they visited the area for a special event, such as the Tri-State Antique Gas Engine & Tractor Show.

The ladies say they enjoy being their own bosses. Cindy jokes that she and Missy are very close – as long as she is the boss!

But, in all seriousness, the two would not have such freedom and flexibility to choose what to sell and how to decorate the shop if they worked for someone else.

In the future, Cindy and Missy hope to maintain an inviting atmosphere at Remember When. Their goal is to keep décor ideas and merchandise fresh and exciting.

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38 / WVL December 2014

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KEEPING IT LOCAL Decatur SBA Pushes Small Business Support

Article by Dee Fisher Photos courtesy of Sacred Images

W

e live in a world of bargains and convenience. One-stop shops have become the standard, including large box stores that offer everything from food, household goods, and drugstore items to clothing, electronics, and automotive goods.

Small towns have been hit the hardest by the advent of the large retailer. Many formerly unique shops in downtowns across our country have gone under as their customer bases join the lines (usually quite long) at the giant department stores all around the country.

Many retailers in small towns have been fighting back by joining forces to preserve their town’s unique personality. In Decatur, many business owners formed the Downtown Retailers Association quite a few years ago.

After it dissolved, many regular events in Decatur slowly went by the wayside, such as the yearly sidewalk sales and Christmas open houses.

In 2009, things had reached a low point in downtown retail. Some of the remaining business owners came together and formed

WVL December 2014 / 41

the Decatur Small Business Association.

There are basically two requirements to join this group. First, the business must be locally and individually owned (no franchises). And, second, the business must be located either in Decatur or within the 46733 zip code.

Sales, the Fall Open House, the Christmas Open House, the Callithumpian Festival, and the Ghoul’s Night Out at Halloween. The Decatur SBA aims to help small businesses work together in supporting one other and the community, both economically and socially.

Since its establishment, the Decatur SBA has created, restarted, or added its presence to: the Spring Open House, Downtown Sidewalk

Max Miller, owner of Ritter Flowers, in Decatur, and president of the Decatur Small Business Association, notes that, “We (small

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businesses) are individuals, not cookie cutters. You’ll find unique items at each of our establishments – things you won’t find anywhere else.”

Max, who is also a local historian, is a wealth of information about current and past local businesses and activities. He is a believer in the motto, Think Local First!

Max says there are many good reasons to stay local in your purchasing. For example, several studies have shown that buying from a local business allows more of your money to be used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms, thereby strengthening the economic base of the community.

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In addition, you help support community service groups when you buy locally.

Non-profit organizations average about 250% more support from smaller businesses than from larger ones.

Local small businesses make our communities unique and form the distinctive character of each place.

Therefore, tourism also benefits from the one-of-a-kind flavor of small communities.

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Making your purchases locally can also have less impact on the environment, as the shops are in a smaller area, requiring less transportation. Urban sprawl and congestion are lessened.

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Local businesses are more likely to hire locally. It is a fact that small businesses are the largest employer nationwide, decreasing the amount of local unemployment.

Local business owners often hire people who have a good grasp of their products and who take more time to get to know customers, creating more satisfied customers after the purchase.

Local businesses are owned by members of the community, and therefore, are less likely to leave, giving them a vested interest in the community’s future.

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Comparatively speaking, local businesses in smaller downtowns require less investment in infrastructure and make more efficient use of public services (paid for by community taxes).

Local business owners can base their product selection on local interests, creating a broader range of product choices. Instead of being part of a national sales plan, local businesses can give customers more of what they want and need, as individuals.

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Finally, there is this interesting fact: entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest in and settle in communities that have preserved their distinctive flavor with unique local businesses. Therefore, it is in the best interest of a community to invest in its local businessmen and women in order to grow and build itself over time.

The city of Decatur is currently working to organize and coordinate the various groups which handle the many local festivals and events, and the SBA is greatly interested in seeing that those events continue. Each business contributes its own flair to the coordinated open houses and festivals, providing something unique for its customers.

When asked what the average individual can do to help his/her community, Max is quick to remind us all to shop locally.

Besides that, he encourages every resident to participate in community events. “That’s how these events grow and develop – with community participation, both individual citizens and local businesses.”

CONTACT INFORMATION: 937 N. 2nd Street Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 223-0102

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44 / WVL December 2014

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