Wabash Valley Living January 2015 Edition

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ABASH VALLE

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JANUARY 2015

FREE

SERVING ADAMS - JAY - MERCER VAN WERT - WELLS COUNTIES

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Featuring a Variety of Area Businesses in This Issue

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

EXCEPTIONAL CARE...CLOSE TO HOME

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

Adams Memorial Hospital is excited to welcome Doctor Aaron Coats as the newest member of the surgical team. Dr. Aaron Coats will work part time in the Adams Memorial Orthopaedics office in Decatur with Dr. David Coats. Dr. Aaron Coats specializes in orthopaedic surgical procedures with a special interest in adult and pediatric shoulder and knee disorders at Adams Memorial. In addition, he will treat meniscus and cartilage injuries of the knee through both surgical and non-surgical procedures. With previous fellowships in sports training and orthopaedic sports medicine Dr. Coats makes it easy to help his patients live healthier, more productive lives.

To make an appointment call 724-2145, extension 3900

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WABASH VALLEY

LIVING www.wabashvalleyliving.com

CONTENTS

Editor................................... Amy M. Orr Contributors.................. Misty Becher Dee Fisher

JANUARY 2015

Jim Kirkwood Sylvia Marbach Andrea Peterson Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy Deb Ross Vol. 7, No. 1, January 2015 © Wabash Valley Living, 2015. 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

Bell Aquaculture | Redkey, IN

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

11

The Hope Clinic | Berne & Decatur, IN

Wabash Valley Living is printed by:

17

Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home | Berne

22

CALENDAR OF AREA EVENTS

27

Lillie's Tin Ceiling | Willshire, OH

31

Jerry Flack Financial | Bluffton, IN

37

Decatur Self-Storage | Decatur, IN

41

Fort Fitness N More | Ft. Recovery, OH

46

FIND FRIEDRICH CONTEST

47

COUPON OFFERS

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

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A Perfect Blend Adams Memorial Hosp

14

Joe's Lighting Products

4

2

Karen's Treasures

40

39

Lillie's Tin Ceiling

29

Biggs Property Manage 29

MR Planners

38

Bixler Insurance

4

Niswonger Performing 48

BKM Real Estate

30

Pizza King of Decatur

Bluffton Tire

20

Porter-Takats

Anytime Fitness

Century 21 Advance

7

Chain Reaction Bike

40

Classics Plus Auto

9

Courtyard Lakes Villas

15

D & H Workshop

16

D L Schwartz Co

28

Decatur Self-Storage

39

Earthen Treasures

10

East of Chicago

21

Edelweiss Floral

19

Engine House Quilt

13

Fort Fitness-N-More

43

Geels Backhoe

44

7 14

River Terrace Retirem

33

Schug House Inn

19

Schwartz Manufact

45

Schwartz Shoe Store

40

Shetler's Housewares

8

State Farm Steve Rich

45

Swiss City Nutrition &

15

Swiss Village Retirem

18

Swissland Cheese Co

10

The Hope Clinic

13 4

TW Fable Restaurant

32

Van Wert CVB

45

Gersh's Carpet Cleaning 9

Velocity Motors

44

Grounds & Grains

34

Villa Lanes/224 Pub & 25

Helen Woodard's Yager 12

Willshire Home Furnish 21

Hilty Builders Supply

19

Ya Ya's Mid-Century to 34

Honegger Ringger & Co 30

Yager-Kirchhofer Funer 16

Jerry Flack Financial

Zurcher's Best-One Tire 42

33

Affirming the Value of All Human Life

Nearly 105 Years of Serving Grieving Families

New Shop Has Long Family History

Free Consultations Keep Advisor Occupied

Solutions for Tight Spaces and Clutter

25

Rebecca Cochran CPA

Troxel Equipment

The Science of Raising Fish for Food

Fun, Healthy Activities for All Members of the Family

BIG

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BELL AQUACULTURE The Science of Raising Fish for Food Article by Jim Kirkwood

Photos courtesy of Bell Aquaculture

M

ichael Miller studied the science and technology of aquaculture and became involved in the Indiana Aquaculture Association. His dream was to grow yellow perch, his favorite, and to provide this tasty fish to local and national markets.

This dream became reality in 1994 when he and partner Brian Baldwin designed and built the first building and fish tanks on the farmland where he grew up. Bell Aquaculture was founded in 2005, producing yellow perch

at first, and now rainbow trout, Coho salmon, aqua feed and fertilizers.

Restaurants throughout the United States, as well as local ones, such as Lil’ Bistro in Redkey, and Milton’s restaurant and Pete’s Duck Inn in Albany, are serving delicious fish produced by Bell.

Laura Baldwin, Director of Business Operations, recently took this writer on a tour of the amazing and rapidly-growing facilities,

WVL January 2015 / 5

which include the processing plant in Redkey, and the state-of-the-art aquaculture complex located on 43 acres outside of Albany. Upon entering the 2-acre building which houses the fish-growing tanks, I was overwhelmed by the size of the 24 production tanks, where the fish are transformed from fingerlings to delectable fish for the table.

Each tank holds 25,000 to 40,000 fish during their progression from young fingerlings to harvesting size. The tanks feature a glass porthole for viewing the fish—important not just for curiosity, but for production purposes.

Fingerlings are in the first tanks, growing to 65 grams (a bit over 2 ounces) before they are

Are You Concerned About Your moved to successive culture tanks. They grow to harvesting size in about six to eight months.

HEALTH CARE COSTS?

The fish are examined as they transition from tank to tank. Laura explains, “They are all graded according to size. It is important to have all the same size fish in the tank; otherwise, the little ones won’t eat.”

The beauty of the fish and the sounds of rapidly moving water awed me. Laura allowed me to catch my breath before we climbed the stairs and walked the ramps leading from tank to tank. I was given the privilege of throwing feed to medium size rainbow trout with gigantic appetites—I so wished for a fishing pole! Alas, that’s not permitted.

Bell has highly advanced Research and Development capabilities. The team has over 75 years of collective expertise in fish health, nutrition, biological monitoring protocols and life-cycle management.

They have designed and crafted tanks, feeding systems, water recycling, and other technologies. They continually improve the efficiency of the process.

And, their findings are informing the aquaculture industry worldwide.

In July, Bell celebrated the grand opening of Bell Farms™ Aqua Feed mill. More than 300 fish farmers, government officials and industry experts attended.

The feed mill produces extruded meal.

The mill is able to accommodate a customer who wants a feed with specific characteristics. “For example,” Laura says, “if a grower wants a food with protein that doesn’t come as an animal byproduct, pistachio oil can be substituted to increase the protein content.”

According to Bell’s website, the mill is the “first of its kind to produce locally-grown food that will service the aquaculture industry on a mass scale.” Bell Farms

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WVL January 2015 / 7

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will produce 2 million pounds of feed per month. Most of the ingredients will be sourced locally.

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Laura emphasizes the importance of producing fish food on the farm.

She notes, “Growing our own fish food allows us more control. We are realizing the potential for the feed mill to have a nutritionally profiled feed for each specific specie and life cycle of our fish.”

She adds, “We feel it is very important to take care of the earth’s resources.

You can be assured that we grow a very good product, and you don’t have to worry about our practices. We are local; you can see what we are doing. It is a sustainable process.

“We take care of the water from beginning to end. We take care of the fish from beginning to end. We clean the solids out of the water, and we re-use those for worm castings. We take their heads, tails, and guts, and make fertilizer out of that. So, we are concerned about taking care of what’s been given to us.”

The customer can order fish in various quantities and sizes. “When we have an order for, say, one-pound fish, we put that size in the purge tanks for finishing,” Laura says.

As we near the end of the tour, Laura points out the water spilling from the tanks, where it begins the purification process. It then goes to the nutrient capturing building.

“We have great big settling cones, where we put the concentrated waste from the tanks into a press where it is de-watered and then goes to a worm farm in Marion, where they make worm castings (fertilizer).

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Call (260) 692-6366 “The fish produced are healthy, with no disease and are free from antibiotics and hormones. The survival rate of the fish is quite high.

“The weight of the food eaten compared to the finished weight of the fish is almost one-to-one.” That food to product ratio compares favorably against any other meat; for example, chicken has a ratio of 2 to 1; pork, 3 to 1; and beef, 7 to 1.

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Laura notes that people in the Midwest don’t eat enough fish. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says that omega-3 fatty acids (from fish) are important in our diet.

They mention that two 6-ounce servings of fish per week are important for physical and mental health. However, SeafoodHealthFacts.org reports the U.S. consumption of fish currently is under 25% of that recommendation.

Certainly, current inefficient methods of protein production cannot be sustained.

“We need to feed 9 billion people by the year 2050,” says Laura, “and we need to figure out how to do that. The world needs to have good, clean, sustainablygrown products. We are trying to save the world’s fisheries.”

More information about Bell Farms and more details of production and processing can be found on their website.

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WVL January 2015 / 9

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THE HOPE CLINIC Affirming the Value of All Human Life Article by Sylvia Marbach

A

lthough Terri Hogg volunteered at The Hope Clinic in Berne, Indiana when she was younger, she never anticipated she would later become the executive director.

However, God’s lofty plans often do not match up with our finite expectations.

Terri met her husband Ken at Fort Wayne Bible College. After the two were married, Ken served as pastor of a church in Michigan for 26 years.

The Hoggs raised one son and also provided a loving home for a number of foster children and foreign exchange students. “I can’t honestly tell you how many kids I’ve had,” says Terri, “because I’ve had a lot – over 20.”

Ken and Terri moved back to Adams County three years ago, and Terri has been with The Hope Clinic for the past 18 months. “When I first moved back here, The Hope Clinic was in the back of my mind. I thought that I

WVL January 2015 / 11

would eventually become an advocate – not the director.” Laughing, she adds, “God had different plans.”

Terri explains, “My background was in education, education research, early childhood development, and ministry. When I oversaw an educational non-profit at the University of Michigan, it gave me a good deal of training in

what it means to run a program with a lot of employees.”

The Hope Clinic has two locations, one in Berne, and one in Decatur. Both offer free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds. The goals of these local clinics are to provide affordable education and various forms of support to those who find themselves unexpectedly pregnant,

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and to promote marriage, prayer, and the value of human life in a loving, Christlike manner.

As executive director, Terri does “a little bit of everything.” She reports, “I oversee the day-to-day operations. I do a lot of development work with our donors, as well. I interact with clients.” From answering the phone or emails, to filling in for other staff members, giving tours, shopping, and budgeting – “whatever has to be done.”

Terri received training for her position from The Hope Clinic’s national affiliate, Heartbeat, at last year’s national conference. Heartbeat offers ongoing support, as well, including webinars and phone consultations.

The Hope Clinic’s previous director, Katie Sprunger, was very helpful, too.

“She worked with me for about a month,” Terri recalls, “training me on the day-today operations. I couldn’t have done this without her.”

Terri continues, “The reason we exist, over everything else, is because we want to reach out to the young woman who’s at risk for abortion – the woman who’s scared and overwhelmed and doesn’t know where to turn.

“Our advocates love to talk and are good listeners. Our nurse can spend time with clients. We have volunteers here who will give those women their time and attention, and it’s free.” The staff is also willing and able to pray with clients.

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“Secondly, we want to support her if she makes the decision to parent the child.

We will be here to help her with material assistanc such as diapers, cribs, car seats.

“Third, we are here for anybody who’s pregnant – single or married. Our services include free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and free material assistance.”

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WVL January 2015 / 13

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According to Terri, “There are no income guidelines, so anyone can come in here and utilize our services. We even have Amish clients who come in for help."

The Hope Clinic also reaches out to expectant fathers, she says. “We want to give them support, as well – not only the material assistance, but we also have dad classes. We have male advocates here who can just sit and talk with a new dad.”

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Still, the majority of The Hope Clinic’s clients are female. “Most ladies come here for a free pregnancy test. Whether they’re wanting to be pregnant or not, they generally come for a test on the first visit.

“If they're six to seven weeks pregnant, Mary Carol, our nurse manager, can offer an ultrasound that day to verify the pregnancy, to make sure the baby’s in the uterus. The mother can see the beating heart and know that there’s life growing inside of her. We’ll give her information, show her around, and explain how our Baby Bucks program works.”

Through The Hope Clinic’s Baby Bucks program, clients can earn “bucks” toward material assistance. “Then, they can go to our Baby Bucks Boutique and shop for whatever they need. It’s the educational side of material assistance.

“We have a range of articles and pamphlets that they can take home and read. If they write a one-page reflection and bring it back, then they get Baby Bucks.

“A mom can also earn Baby Bucks by watching videos and discussing them with one of our advocates. We have a video library that ranges from everything that a woman would need to know about her own body when she’s pregnant, up through the time that a child’s going to be heading off to school.

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“Finally, they can earn Baby Bucks by attending our classes. We do parenting classes, budgeting classes, and doctor

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The Hope Clinic promotes formal education, as well, and awards Baby Bucks to parents who continue to attend school. “We offer Baby Bucks at the end of every semester when they bring their transcripts in,” Terri explains.

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The board of The Hope Clinic would like to offer even more. “Our vision is to increase the hours that we’re available at both clinics. We would like to see a time in the future where we’re open everyday in both Berne and Decatur.

“We would also like to increase our presence by holding parenting classes in the community. We would like to be able to do STD testing in the future, as well.”

The Hope Clinic also conducts programs for local youth. To promote the value of abstinence among youth, the clinic will host Silver Ring Thing assemblies at North Adams, Adams Central, and South Adams middle and high schools on March 31st and April 1st.

Most of all, says Terri, The Hope Clinic values human life. “We believe that each person is created in the image of God. We believe that life begins at conception – that you’re a human being from conception, and God already has a plan for your life.

“We believe that all human life has purpose, whether that person is a week old in the uterus or at the end of their life.”

CONTACT INFORMATION: 165 W. Water St., Berne (260) 589-3561 970 S. 11th St., Decatur (260) 728-4191 www.HopeAndAnswers.com

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YAGER-KIRCHHOFER FUNERAL HOME Nearly 105 Years of Serving Grieving Families Article by Misty Becher

I

n July 1910, Lawrence Yager and Eli Bierie founded Bierie & Yager Funeral Home in Berne, Indiana. The funeral home was originally located on Main Street but later moved to Fulton Street.

Eventually, Lawrence’s two sons joined the family business; Jerome joined the business in 1934, followed by Luther in 1937. At that time, Lawrence purchased the controlling stock of Bierie & Yager and changed the name of the business to Yager Funeral Home.

In the early days, the embalming and body preparation was done in the home where the visitations and services were held. Around the time Yager’s sons joined the business, most funeral services were held in the local churches up until 1950, when some families began choosing to conduct services at Yager Funeral Home.

A new facility was built on West Main Street in Berne, with plenty of indoor space and a big parking area. The funeral home boasted

WVL January 2015 / 17

a family kitchen/recreational lounge, three layout/visitation rooms, and an arrangement room for services.

In the fall of 1978, Jerome Yager’s son-in-law, John A. Kirchhofer, joined the family-owned business. Then, in 1986, John and his wife Rose purchased Luther’s stock and became the principle partners. The Kirchhofers renamed

the funeral home Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home.

During this time, funeral services were still being held in local churches, as well as at the funeral home. But, changes were made at Yager-Kirchhofer to help families better honor their recently-lost loved one with personalized viewings.

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Families could bring in pictures, memorabilia, albums, and hobby collections to display in the visitation rooms. This allowed the grieving family to celebrate their loved one’s life, remembering happy times they shared, and also gave the family an opportunity to share those memories with all who attended the viewing.

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John still operates Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home today, and it continues serving the community from its location on West Main Street in downtown Berne.

According to John, the question, “Why should we even have a funeral?” has been asked many times of funeral directors. He responds, “The staff at Yager-Kirchhofer believe the funeral is a meaningful tradition - a means for the family to publicly express their beliefs, thoughts, and feelings about the death of a loved one.

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“Rich in history and rife with symbolism, the ceremony allows the loved ones to acknowledge the reality of death.

Mourners may attend the viewing to pay respect to the family with words of encouragement or memories of their loved one. Funerals give the family a safe place to express their grief in a way that is consistent with the values and beliefs of the deceased.

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“Grief is a natural emotion following the death of a loved one,” says John, “and in order to heal, we all must go thru the grief process. Each person experiences grief differently, and grief is dealt with in various ways. By grieving, we allow ourselves to feel, experience, and accept the pain, which gives us permission to heal.

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“During this time of grief and acceptance, the funeral director, clergy, family, and friends are all there to help the family by being supportive and dealing with the process involved. Families can be prepared ahead of time with the process by preplanning.”

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Preplanning a funeral gives one the opportunity to choose a casket, vault or burial plot, music, scripture selections, etc. so when they pass away, those details will already be taken care of, and the family won’t be burdened with making difficult decisions while they grieve. Preplanning also removes any guess work for the family.

When a loved one passes, and the family comes to Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home, John assists them in a number of ways. He acquaints the family with traditional, cremation, and other types of services, handles newspaper publicity, orders death certificates, informs the cemetery to open the grave, handles honorariums, orders family flowers, helps families secure life insurance and social security benefits, and many other vital tasks. John also fills out many vital legal government and county forms upon a death.

Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home also maintains a website where the staff members can list an obituary and include a photo of the deceased. Family and friends can sign the guest book online and leave the family a note of encouragement.

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Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home will provide services to all different areas of faith and religion. “The more common type is of the Christian faith,” explains John, “but there have been others who have come to us in their time of need.

The most unusual arrangements made at Yager-Kirchhofer were to serve a Muslim family.

“Their practices differ from most of the families we serve. They don’t have a public viewing of the body, and members of the mosque prepare the body for burial. The service is also held

of Readers Every Month!

Contact Deb Ross at: (260) 849-1445 deb@wabashvalleyliving.com

20 / WVL January 2015

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“At Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home, the staff continues to serve each bereaved family in a professional manner with dignity, respect, and compassion, allowing the process to be as smooth as possible.”

Home Furnishings

As a funeral director, he adds, there is “immense satisfaction in helping a family deal with the death of a loved one.” John continues, “One needs to be compassionate and understanding, yet able to guide the family in making necessary arrangements for the visitation, funeral, and burial.

W

“The military planned the entire service, and Yager-Kirchhofer aided them in carrying out their customs for military personnel. More than 1,000 motorcycles were in the procession from the Fort Wayne airport to Berne for the visitation and services, and American flags lined the roadway in Berne.”

SMALL-TOWN FRIENDLY & EXCEPTIONAL PRICES

John says that Yager-Kirchhofer has had many “memorable” experiences in helping families to plan funerals, but the one that stands out the most was “assisting with the service for one of our local heroes, an Afghanistan veteran, Nick Taylor.” The young serviceman’s funeral was held at South Adams High School in Berne.

ILLSHIRE

in the mosque with burial immediately following.”

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(260)589-8891 (260)589-8891

Dine-In • Dine-In w/Buffet • Delivery • Carry-Out

AREA EVENTS CALENDAR

1st First Day Hike

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

2nd Movie & Popcorn: Muppets Most Wanted 10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

LEGO Club

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

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

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

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

6th

Economic Outlook Breakfast

7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604

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

Blood Pressure Checks

5th

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

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

Village Meltdown Begins

Ladies Power Tool Class

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

Cozy Christian Readers Book Discussion 10:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.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

AHA Healthcare Provider CPR Class 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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

Manga Club

6:00 p.m.

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

22 / WVL January 2015

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

PJ Story Hour

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

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

7

th

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

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

Laughter Yoga

4:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7131

8th Moms' Morning Out 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

Tot Toddler Time

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Friends of the Carnegie Building 12:30 p.m.

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

JL Trekkers: Pendulum Painting 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 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

Who Picked This Book, Anyway? Book Club 6:30 p.m.

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

10th Childbirth Class

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

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

Book Talk with Kayleen Reusser 10:00 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

Annie Sellick Jazz Quartet 7:30 p.m.

Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

12th Jungle Jazz (8-week Toddler Music Class)

10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

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

State of the City Address 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Woodcrest Campus Center Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604

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

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

Brown Bag Book Club 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

Knitting Class

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

13

th

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

Crochet Lessons 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Ladies Power Tool Class 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Cookbook Club

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

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

Berne Chamber Annual Celebration Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8080

No Boys Allowed! Book Club 6:30 p.m.

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

No Girls Allowed! Book Club 6:30 p.m.

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

14th

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

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

Laughter Yoga

4:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7131

15th Tai Chi Class

9:00 a.m. - 9:45 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

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

Tot Toddler Time

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

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

16th Cards with Carol

12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

LEGO Club

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

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

17th Diabetic Management Class 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7131

Adams County Winter Market 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

4-H Dining Hall Monroe, Indiana (260) 701-3047

WVL January 2015 / 23

Wells County Genealogy Meeting

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

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

Robotics State Qualifying Tournament 10:30 a.m.

Van Wert High School Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378

19

th

Tax Aid for Seniors 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

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

Jungle Jazz (8-week Toddler Music Class)

10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

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

Blood Pressure Checks 12:30 p.m.

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

Free BINGO

1:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Knitting Class

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Boys & Girls Book Club 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

20th Senior BINGO 8:30 a.m.

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

Laughter Yoga

4:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7131

Blood Pressure Checks

22nd

Red Cross Bloodmobile

9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.

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

Crochet Lessons

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

Ladies Power Tool Class

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

Mystical Mythology

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Kids Club

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

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

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

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

6:30 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612 6:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

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

Swiss Heritage Society Annual Meeting 7:00 p.m.

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

Tai Chi Class

Crocheting with Dawn

Moms' Morning Out

Tot Toddler Time

Weight Watchers Meeting

Rex's Exes Opens

8:00 p.m.

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

23rd Healthy Meal Planning (with Samples)

21

2:00 p.m.

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

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

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

24th

st

Needles, Hooks & Pins

eReader/iPad Fair 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

24 / WVL January 2015

American Watercolor Society Exhibit Reception 7:00 p.m.

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

(260)728-2151

25th

310 E. Monroe

Paul Nicklin Program

Decatur, IN

3:00 p.m.

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

26th Tax Aid for Seniors 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

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

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

Jungle Jazz (8-week Toddler Music Class)

10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

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

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

SMORGASBORD DINNER:

Mom's Support Group

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

1:00 p.m.

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

15% OFF TOTAL BILL

Knitting Class

–when you present the coupon on page 47–

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

K123 Club: Pine Cone Bird Feeder

27th Blood Pressure Clinic

n

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12

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1704 Nuttman Ave Decatur, IN 260-724-3660

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with the Purchase of An Entree

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

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

Pub & est Grill w o

Pub & Grill ow

B

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n

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

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

LOWER PRICES FREE Appetizer 12

Teen Book Club

on Dr au

224

B

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

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

e rs Be

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Boys & Girls Book Club

Celebrate Our

gh

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

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

B u rg

T ers in

1704 Nuttman Ave Decatur, IN 260-724-3660

Limit One Free Appetizer Per Bill Expires 01/31/15

WVL January 2015 / 25

Blood Pressure Clinic

Evening LEGO Club

Jay County Chamber Networking Luncheon

28th

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

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

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

Needles, Hooks & Pins

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

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

Crochet Lessons 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Ladies Power Tool Class 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

6:30 p.m.

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

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

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

Floral Arranging Class by Dreams on Wings 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

29th Tai Chi Class

9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.

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

Classy Cards! by Tanya Fox 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

Tot Toddler Time

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

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

31st Home Free in Concert 7:30 p.m.

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

Blessings to You in the New Year!

26 / WVL January 2015

LILLIE’S TIN CEILING New Shop in Willshire Has Long Family History Article & Photos by Dee Fisher

I

n this corner of America, there are many, many small towns. Once, the vast majority of Americans lived in and around small towns, largely making their living from agriculture.

Times have changed in the last century. The bulk of Americans now live in and around cities and metropolitan areas, and relatively few are still engaged in farming.

The cities themselves are not always growing; instead, there’s been a new migration to suburbs, and from suburbs, back to small towns. Many

small towns are seeing a renaissance in their economies, mostly from small businesses established by local residents. Those residents can often trace their family’s roots back through the local histories. Kendra Miller and her family are prime examples. Her roots in the small town of Willshire, Ohio go back several generations.

Inside Kendra’s new shop in downtown Willshire, she points out pictures of her grandmother, greatgrandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

All of these women worked in the same small building over the last century or so.

WVL January 2015 / 27

D. L. Schwartz Co. Farm & Home Suppli the building (nor the expenses of maintaining 2188 S. US Hwy. 27 and put▪itUnion the facility) up for sale. forks, shovels & hoes Repair handles Stovepipe ▪M Berne, IN 46711 “When my husband and I saw that ▪this old

“I grew up in the Willshire Variety Store that my parents operated,” Kendra explains. “That experience made me want to someday own my own store.”

building was for sale, it was & like something Grinders parts ▪ Horseshoei After the Variety Store closed, the Willshire told us that the time was right.

We hadtraining been supplies ▪ Horse heads Lions purchased the building and held their working at our jobs and raising our family, but I ▪ Anvils ▪ Oil lamps ▪ Coleman See our assortment of LED club meetings there. In recent years, the club had never let go of my dream of owning a retail repair parts ▪ Pressure cookers battery members decided that they nolamps longer and neededheadlights. business,” Kendra smiles.

parts ▪ Parmak fencers ▪ and m more…..

Find Your OUTDOOR COOKING SUPPLIES at 4 miles north of Berne on Hwy 27 Hours 8:00 –5:00 M-F 8:00 –11:30 Sat. 1-800-955-3064 2188 S. US Hwy 27 Berne, IN 46711

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It’s been a lot of work for the Millers, but they were able to hold their grand opening the weekend following Thanksgiving.

“The townspeople were really great,” says Kendra. “They all came out to see what was happening at the old Lions building and made the grand opening pretty successful.”

Willshire is located in a unique geographical position. It sits in Van Wert County, on the edge of Mercer County to the southeast and the Indiana state line to the west. “Willshire is about 15-20 minutes away from several other larger towns, like Decatur, Indiana and Van Wert, Ohio, and is the crossroads of three major highways. It’s in the middle of everything!

“Willshire is a stop on the way to and from Columbus and Lima, Ohio, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and even Chicago, Illinois,” Kendra observes. “It’s noted for several vintage shops, a great restaurant and drive-in, and a beautiful downtown park.”

Kendra’s new store, Lillie’s Tin Ceiling, sells vintage-style décor (“not really antiques”), jewelry and accessories, gift items and more. Many items are handcrafted nearby: Nora Gray accessories from Berne, Indiana; body lotions by The Organic Mom and Lucy Lockett Designs

by Rebecca, both in Decatur, Indiana; and bright, unique jewelry by JNY Design of Rockford, Ohio.

Kendra is very proud of her candy counter, a fixture from her parents’ store.

“I think that a candy counter should be part of every small town,” she says.

Purchased from the Anthony-Thomas Candy Company of Columbus, Ohio, goodies ranging from chocolates and filled chocolates to other hard candies are displayed in large containers, tempting all who happen to pass.

One of the more unique items at Lillie’s Tin Ceiling is the Ella B. Candles collection.

This company in North Carolina offers hand-poured soy candles. Elegant candles from Ella B.’s Neighborhood Collection have scents named after places – River

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WVL January 2015 / 29

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Town, Nickel Plate, Log Cabin, Ohio Christmas, and Willshire Holiday. The candles are boxed with bows on top, making them perfect for quick gifts.

The Millers wanted to restore their building to some semblance of its original condition. So, they gutted it, revealing beautiful hardwood floors, brick walls with original plaster, and the original tin ceiling. “We wanted a space with a vintage look that would remind customers of days past when small stores were the life-blood of small towns.” They are continuing the restoration with a more modern addition in the back.

Kendra explains, “After the first of the year, we will be opening a kitchen that will provide soup, salads, and sandwiches for sale on Fridays. Lillie’s Tin Ceiling will also offer a gathering space where groups and families can meet.

“I purposely created the retail space so the displays in the middle could be set up and struck down quickly and easily.

That way, we can set up tables and chairs and cater small dinners and lunches for medium-sized groups.”

Lillie’s Tin Ceiling is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

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So, who is Lillie? Kendra says Lillie was her grandmother who worked in the building when it operated as a variety store. “I thought it appropriate to name the shop after her, since her presence is still here.” Lillie would certainly be pleased with what her granddaughter has accomplished so far.

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JERRY FLACK FINANCIAL SERVICES Free Consultations Keep Advisor Occupied Article & Photos by Andrea Peterson

J

erry Flack sits at a desk just steps from the front door of his business, Jerry Flack Financial Services, located at the intersection of Main and Market streets in downtown Bluffton. He speaks with a client who came in without an appointment.

The conversation speaks volumes about Jerry.

He is a people person, warmly welcoming anyone who steps into his historical building.

As the client exits the building, Jerry gestures to the chair across the desk from him, offering me

a seat. He waits with a copy of Wabash Valley Living in his hand and points to an advertisement for his firm.

Jerry doesn’t waste any time getting down to business, mainly because he doesn’t have any time to waste. He squeezed in an appointment with me during his lunch hour.

Jerry holds up another advertisement that reads in large, bold letters, “FREE 1-Hour Consultation.” Jerry continues reading aloud, his finger marking the bullet points in the ad. “I give

WVL January 2015 / 31

trainings on annuities, life insurance, retirement planning, long-term care insurance planning, and for people going on or already on Medicare or Medicaid.

Pausing, Jerry provides some background details.

He graduated from high school in 1966. Then, he studied business at Ball State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1970.

“Most of the time, clients come to me. But sometimes, I go to them – at small, medium, and large corporations, also.”

Jerry pursued and completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA), also from Ball State, several years later. In addition to his

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business degrees, Jerry has also earned the titles of Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Certified Long Term Care Agent (CLTC).

Following graduation in 1970, Jerry taught business classes at Elston High School in Michigan City, Indiana. But just two years later, Jerry relocated to Bluffton, where he established his current business. He and his wife, Cheryl, have two grown sons, Jarrod and Jon. An interesting detail...the historic brick bulding at the corner of Main and Market serves as more than just a business location for Jerry. “We’ve been in this building for 17 years, living upstairs,” he explains.

“We sold a new home to move in!” The Flacks have lived there since 1972.

Turning the focus back to his work, Jerry says that the one-hour consultation (training) he offers is unique. “No one pays a dime. People look at the clock after the one hour is up and can’t believe they won’t be charged.”

He says that a lot of his clients are scheduled appointments, but there are walk-ins, as well. Jerry assists a number of people who have become eligible to receive Medicare or Medicaid benefits.

He has clients “of all ages” and “from all walks of life.”

An average day for Jerry consists of backto-back appointments. He points to his scheduling book, which is typically kept by three part-time employees who also handle other miscellaneous office duties.

It is a full schedule on this day, with appointments until seven o’clock in the evening.

“With a handicap-accessible, first floor office that, considering it is across from the courthouse and the police station, is pretty safe, and working by appointment, I stay busy.” He jokes, “I can’t call in sick – I live upstairs!”

Jerry adds, “People ask when I’m going to retire. I always tell them I don’t plan to retire – I plan on dying in this chair.

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“I had no idea I would end up here after getting out of business school...but I like it! There are a lot of challenges right now.

A lot of changes, too. But, this is a fun area and a nice part of the state. A lot of opportunities.

“It is not a get-rich-quick career. If you are thinking like that, you won’t make it. I like working with the people. I like the work.”

Jerry also is a humble servant of the community. “I believe in giving back,” he explains. In the past, Jerry has served as president of a number of local organizations, including the Wells County Chamber of Commerce, the Wells County Foundation, United Way of Wells County, and Wells County Economic Development Corporation.

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“I’ve also been a project business teacher and have received the Golden Achievement Award from Junior Achievement. I’ve been a Junior Achievement teacher of both middle school and high school classes, and a Sunday School teacher for twenty-two years in a row.

“But, my favorite volunteer position is serving as a piano player at Golden Apple, which is the Alzheimer’s wing at Christian Care Retirement Community. I love those people!” Jerry is also a member of The Gideons International.

Needless to say, Jerry Flack is a busy man. In the midst of all of his training appointments, visits with walk-in clients, and many activities associated with civic organizations in the community, he still met with me with a smile on his face and a “let’s-get-to-work” attitude. I’m sure he’ll do the same for anyone who would like to meet with him (at no cost!) to discuss the financial choices available to them.

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DECATUR SELF-STORAGE Solutions for Tight Spaces and Clutter Article & Photos by Andrea Peterson

I

once heard a rumor about a group of fellows who leased out a storage unit for sole purpose of using it as a party pad.

“I have heard stories of that going on, too,” says Rhoda Hirschy, the property manager at Decatur Self-Storage, “but I go around quite often and check the units to see which ones do not have locks.”

Perhaps using one of the Decatur SelfStorage units as a place to relax with the guys is out of the question, but the sky is the

limit as to what else you can store in one.

Okay, the sky may be stretching it a bit, but as long as your stuff measures less than 20 feet by 30 feet, there is a unit for you.

And, Rhoda is the person to match you with just the right unit. She has been the operating property manager for the past ten years. It was not a career she had planned to pursue but, rather, something that “just happened” when the job was offered to her by the owner – a friend she knew from high school.

WVL January 2015 / 37

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Decatur Self-Storage was established in 1986, Storage’s 20 x 30 units, which can hold a and its first location was 3303 Winchester boat, or even a small fifth wheel! Some of the Street. The Village Green and Bellmont Road storage locations have electronic gated access. locations were added sometime later, and in According to Rhoda, all of the locations boast 2010, the company nearly doubled in size clean units, are safe and well-lit, and have 24COOK LIKE YOU DON’T HAVE TO with the addition of the Guy Brown and the hour accessibility.

Morningstar Drive locations.

Rhoda is obviously an asset to the company, Today, there are 764 units in sizes ranging as 719 of Decatur Self-Storage’s 764 units from 5 feet by 10 feet up to Decatur Self- are currently filled. “And those would be

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full, too, if they were the larger units!” remarks Rhoda.

So, what does 24-hour accessibility mean for the property manager – especially one who describes her position as a “one-man show?” While Rhoda is not, of course, in the office around the clock, she does work a wide range of hours. “Our availability is why we are so full,” she says. “I try to be accommodating to everyone’s schedule, and sometimes, that means coming back in at seven o’clock at night.

“It can be frustrating, though, when I make special arrangements to meet someone, and they don’t show up.”

Typically, Rhoda says, customers lease the storage units to clear out clutter in their home while they’re in the process of moving. Or, they’ve downsized and have less storage space at home. Rhoda adds, “Some people store their seasonal items, as well - Christmas decorations and things like that.”

When asked what an average work day is like, Rhoda smiles and responds, “It depends on the day. Some days, there’s lots of paperwork, sending out letters, taking checks, showing people units, checking to see which units have been emptied and which units are available.”

Other days, Rhoda acts as an auctioneer, of sorts, selling off items from units whose accounts are not current. “Customers have 90 days, and I give them written notice that we’ll be auctioning off the items inside the unit.

I also have to place a notice in the paper.

This follows the statues that are in place in the State of Indiana.”

Which leads to the question, What do people leave behind? Maybe local buyers are discovering some of the “good stuff” that folks have happened upon in television reality shows, such as A&E’s “Storage Wars.”

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Rhoda reports, “Most of the time, the stuff is just junk. Once, I found a wedding dress. It had been dry cleaned and preserved in a box. That was kind of sad. I took it to Goodwill.”

It might not have been the career she expected, but Rhoda clearly loves her job. “I’m a people person,” she admits.

“I love not knowing who I’m going to meet each day. Sometimes, there are people that I’ve gotten to know, and when I see them, I know that I’m going to be talking for awhile.

“And, that’s okay! I enjoy talking with them.”

Rhoda is also appreciative of her employers. She says they are “very flexible” if she needs to be with her family. “They are very family-oriented people.” She says that the owners help out when she needs it, and her family has been known to pitch in, as well.

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In what little free time she has, Rhoda likes to spend time with her family.

“My husband and I, we are almost empty-nesters. We like to go on walks.

Well, I walk, and he runs,” she laughs.

Rhoda’s sweet disposition and Decatur Self-Storage’s clean and affordable units offer customers a great storage solution. You can meet Rhoda for yourself at Decatur Self-Storage’s office, located on Guy Brown Drive location in Decatur’s industrial park.

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FORT FITNESS N MORE Fun, Healthy Activities for All Members of the Family Article & Photos by Jim Kirkwood

T

wenty years ago, there weren’t many children’s activities available in Fort Recovery, Ohio. Karen Ranly had become a bit frustrated by the driving time required for her daughter, Lana, to attend gymnastics and dance lessons.

“When she showed talent in music I took her to dancing lessons in Union City, which was a half-hour drive every week,” Karen recalls.

Karen had always been interested in fitness

and gymnastics. A baton twirler in her younger days, she had enthusiastically enjoyed the ballet elements in it.

Recognizing her family’s need for a local fitness club and gymnasium, Karen developed a survey to see if other local families had similar needs. She sent it to the local school and was pleased with the results. “They showed there was an interest in fitness, dance and gymnastics instruction right in Fort Recovery.”

WVL January 2015 / 41

Karen began offering children’s gymnastics lessons in the elementary school cafeteria.

“We’d go up there in the evening and get the mats out on the floor,” she says.

A few months later, buoyed by the strong interest and excitement of children and their families, Karen located a very large, attractive building, obtained financial backing, and “everything fell

into place,” she says. Fort Fitness N More opened April 1, 1993 in the center of Fort Recovery.

The brightly painted, well-maintained fitness center includes a large gymnasium, a smaller gym for younger children, a weight room, and a number of activity rooms. Members can select from a variety of classes and group activities or work out on their own.

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Karen explains that the name Fort Fitness N More really emphasizes the “More.” The main activities that took place in the early years were in fitness and gymnastics. “But,” says Karen, “I knew that with a building this size, fitness activities weren’t enough to pay for utilities and rent, and I had to add something else to it.”

She recruited Sandy Miller, her daughter Lana’s former teacher, to teach dance at Fort Fitness N More.

Lana (Kahlig) began assisting and teaching dance and gymnastics when she was about 15. She took great interest in physical fitness and is now a licensed massage therapist, as well as a certified and licensed personal trainer, and she works the front desk at Fort Fitness—a woman of many talents!

Fort Fitness N More’s mirrored gym has a ballet bar, and a nicely-padded floor, which is used by gymnastics, ballet and karate classes. Certified karate instructor Kevin Evers happily notes that his students come “from all over the area: Marion, Coldwater, Ansonia, Union City, and as far west as Portland and Redkey—about a 30-mile radius.” He believes that meeting kids from other schools and making social connections is a major benefit of his classes.

“Karate has really grown in the past couple years,” Karen reports. “At first, it was young men who participated; then later, fathers and sons; even later,” she grins, “fathers and daughters. Now, we have a good number of girls who participate.”

Evers adds, “I learned a lot about teaching young kids by watching Karen teach.”

A group of about 8 or 10 fresh-faced girls and boys, a bit flushed with beads of perspiration, explain that the belts they wear on their white uniforms “signify ranks,” including white,

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yellow, green, brown, and of course, black. Evers wears a black belt. One young man explains, “We compete in different levels divided by gender, age, and rank.”

When asked what she learned from a recent competition, one of the trophy winners replies, “When you are practicing by yourself, it is a lot different than when you do it in front of the judges!”

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Evers enlists the help of advanced students to conduct various class exercises, “giving them a chance to experience a leadership role, gain confidence and self-knowledge as they take charge.” This also gives Evers time to challenge each child individually during class.

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The poise of a black belt instructor is evident not only in teaching. Evers says, “When you gain knowledge and skills, you develop confidence. I work with people all around the world in my day job as an engineer, and taking on this leadership role here has prepared me for leadership elsewhere.”

In the fitness room, girls ages 8 through 10 complete a gymnastics lesson while their parents watch. “The kids are enjoying what they are doing,” says one parent, emphatically. “Very much so.”

Landing a complicated flip on the mat, one youngster lets out an astonished yelp. “I never did that before!” she shouts. She stands still in wonder, exclaiming again, “Wow!” Many parents look for something to do while their youngsters are occupied

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44 / WVL January 2015

with lessons. Parents can work out in the weight room, or stretch and watch workout videos in the big gym.

Although the weight room is not designed for heavy lifting nor elite body-building, Karen explains that “a lot of people here start off slower, and after a month or two or three, they come back here and ask for help in training with Lana.

Motivation is the key for these folks, and Lana is a pleasant and encouraging driving force, and even an occasional exercise partner. This helps them keep up a steady routine of exercise.

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Member Nikki Hawk testifies, “Karen, Lana and the staff are great to work with, and it is so convenient to visit one place and take advantage of all the opportunities so close to home.

“Over the years, my family has utilized many of the services at Fort Fitness.

We have participated in karate, dance, gymnastics, Zumba, and even ‘wiggle worms.’” She also takes advantage of the massage services, the sauna, and the tanning facilities.

Tammy Huntsman, another member, says, “I enjoy my time spent here to destress while I work out. I have brought all six of my boys here over the past 9 years to babysitting while I work out. It’s a life-saver for a stay-at-home Mom.”

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As Karen says with evident satisfaction, “Fort Fitness N More is a place where families can have fun together while living a healthy, productive lifestyle.”

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