Wabash Valley Living November 2013 Edition

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ABASH VALLE

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NOVEMBER 2013

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

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Restaurant Features to Tempt Your Tastebuds

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CONTENTS

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

NOVEMBER 2013

Amy Schlichter Tara Steffen Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy Sharon Roberts

• COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TARA STEFFEN FOTOS •

Vol. 5, No. 11, November 2013 © Wabash Valley Living, 2013. Published monthly since June 2009.

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

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Continuing Tradition

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

11

A Simple Philosophy

17

A New Way of Life

22

CALENDAR OF AREA EVENTS

27

Lunch in the Tea Room

33

Shopping for Good

37

Friendly Faces, Good Times

41

It’s All in the Family

Wabash Valley Living is printed by:

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

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Adams Memorial Amy’s Photography Amy’s Prof. Hair Design Anytime Fitness Arm’s Auto Body Balyeat’s Coffee Shop Berne Antique Mall Berne Chamber Bixler Insurance Bluffton Tire Bluhm & Reber Brad Alberson Agency Cardinal Construction Century 21 Advance Chain Reaction Classics Plus CR Design Crafty Corner CrownPointe D & H Workshop DeShia E & R Seed Earthen Treasures East of Chicago Edelweiss Floral Engine House Quilt Fabric Store-n-More Family LifeCare Fort Fitness N More Garden Gallery Gersh’s Carpet Helen Woodard’s Indiana Pancake House Insurance Haus

45 34 9 12 36 8 13 36 39 26 21 9 46 35 14 20 26 43 20 10 30 7 15 31 39 29 40 48 16 25 18 38 19 14

Jay Co. BBQ Joe’s Lighting Just Like New Auto Karen’s Treasures Lehman-Bixler Eye Liechty Bros.

M.C. Hilty Construction Marla Clauser, Realtor McDonald’s - Berne Meadowvale Mr. Planners Niswonger Performing Papino’s Pizza Pizza King of Decatur Porter-Takats River Terrace Estates RK Financial Ruben/Becky Schwartz Schug House Inn Schwartz Blacksmith Schwartz Mfg. Shaka Shack Sharlette’s Fudgery Simon’s Mfg. State Farm Insurance Swiss Village Swissland Cheese Touch of Country TW Fable Restaurant Velocity Motors Willow Creek Store Willshire Home Wilmen’s Country Store Zurcher’s Best One Tire

16 29 6 8 7 16 31 30 47 46 42 4 2 25 39 35 32 26 8 28 46 31 16 21 30 19 32 46 15 44 43 40 16 10

Steve Christner Making Pizza “Just the Way Roger Did”

Macedonian Family Keeping Customers Happy in Berne

Couple Delights American Tastebuds at Co Co China

Van Wert Shop Offers Noontime Dining on Fridays

The Hope Chest Making Life Better in Adams County

Customers are Family at Briar Patch in Pennville

Three Brothers Tossing Pies at Suman Bros. Pizza

44

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continuing tradition

STEVE CHRISTNER MAKING PIZZA “JUST THE WAY ROGER DID” Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

T

here is something to be said about a good ‘ole hometown pizza joint that keeps people coming back, time again and again. Whether it’s the friendly service offered or the tried-and-true taste that never grows old, people go where they can feel at home and enjoy a good meal.

For Steve Christner, owner of Pizza King of Decatur, the hometown pizza joint is

where he loves to be. Steve wasn’t always in the business of making pizza, though.

In 1985, he began his career – and, his first experience in the restaurant business – at Hardees, working there for three years during high school.

After high school, Steve took a job with Scotts Foods. As an assistant dairy manager, Steve was first placed in the Bluffton store,

5

then moved to Decatur and, later, Fort Wayne. He left the grocery, finally, and was hired at Harvest Land Co-Op in Decatur.

delivery driver for the next evening shift.

Steve thought, “How hard can that be?” and told Roger that he would fill in.

When Steve started working part-time at Pizza King, his first night on the job was really a “joke.” He had been friends with Roger and Marsha Hawkins for a long time. Steve walked into the store one night, and Roger told him that he was short one

Steve continued to work part time in the summer and winter while still working for the co-op. Steve says that his wife and young family never saw him, so he quit Pizza King for awhile. But after two years had passed, he returned, and it felt as if he’d never left.

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Steve always liked the idea of being his own boss and had thought about taking over for Roger someday, but he had never really discussed this with his wife. Roger and Steve spoke about the possibility when Roger became ill, but at that moment, the timing wasn’t right.

In 2003, the Saint Marys River flooded, and the Decatur Pizza King filled with 14 inches of water. Roger told Steve that he wanted to stay on awhile longer to see the damage repaired and to get the restaurant back up and running.

Shortly after everything had returned to normal, Roger became ill once again and passed away. In October 2004, Steve officially took over the store.

Steve had gained some experience managing Pizza King during Roger’s illness, so he had a good idea of how to keep things running smoothly. He had gotten to know the clientele, and who came in on certain nights. Steve was a pretty regular face at Pizza King.

When he took over, people already knew him and felt at ease with the whole transaction.

In January 2005, the St. Marys River again threatened to flood the restaurant. Steve took precautions and moved what he could from the building. The floodwaters crept to the building and spilled into the basement.

Steve spent a long night checking on the water levels.

Fortunately, the water didn’t rise above the basement level. Steve and his business neighbor, Cecil Kruse, placed a marker near the river to help them gauge, during future floods, when it’s time to start evacuating.

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Later the same year, Pizza King caught fire. Steve vividly recalls that night as if it had just happened. He had just gotten to bed when he heard the fire trucks coming through town.

The moment the phone rang, Steve sat straight up in bed. He could hear his wife Laura say, “I’ll get him.” On the phone with a city dispatcher, he was told to “come to the store and bring a key” because there was a fire.

Steve doesn’t remember anything that happened after the phone call until the moment someone was pulling on him, holding him back so he couldn’t enter the building. Despite the damage, the store was closed for just two weeks.

Since becoming owner of Pizza King nine years ago, Steve has tried his best to run the store just the way Roger did.

Operating hours were extended when Steve began serving lunch, but, for the most part, it has been business, as usual.

In fact, Steve still serves the same potato salad Roger used to make.

When Steve prepares that dish, he swears that Roger is still around.

Jokingly, Steve says there is a little light in the store that blinks once in awhile, and he takes this as a sign that he’s doing things right. He claims he’d be very nervous if the light ever stopped blinking.

Steve will tell you that he has a lot of trouble with the word “no.” He is a bighearted man. When someone comes to him, needing a job, Steve is more than willing to at least give them a chance – just as he was given a chance, so

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Steve loves to give to charity, and the most important to him right now is the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Both Steve and Laura have family members who have been struck by this disease.

Steve also designates a day each year to raise money for the Adams Central Band, helping them to purchase uniforms. He says that this is the biggest day he has all year, and also, one of the longest. He is overwhelmed by the support shown for these students and says that it’s usually a late night for everyone.

Steve’s wife Laura works at Belmont middle school and she rewards students for reading with a free small pizza. The Christners also partner with the Decatur Library give away around 600 small pizzas each year through the library’s summer reading program.

Steve says he loves it when kids hand him their coupon and ask for their own pizza. Rewarding a kid for reading is big on Steve’s list. WVL

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a simple philosophy

MACEDONIAN FAMILY KEEPNG CUSTOMERS HAPPY IN BERNE Article & Photos by Sylvia Marbach

ight years ago, Safet Vaseli and his family came to America in search of a better life. Safet was born and raised in the small, Macedonian village of Odri. He and his wife, Azbie, wished more for their three children than what the homeland had to offer.

E

has a brother who emigrated to the United States.

Safet’s daughter, Xjosa, 20, is a college student, while daughter Ardita, 18, and son Sulo, 13, attend public school. Safet also

Berne Dining, located on Parkway Street in Berne, Indiana, was formerly known as Bella Tower Grille. Before that, the

A year-and-a-half ago, Safet decided to open his own restaurant in the hopes of earning a better living. “I started last year in March,” he says.

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establishment operated for many years as Parkway Restaurant.

Today, Berne Dining employs 12 workers and has become the catalyst for Safet’s goal of a better life for his family.

Safet began operating the restaurant with no real experience – he learned many things on the job. Safet did not allow the obstacle of inexperience get in the way of

his dream. Instead, he sought help of others.

He believes everyone needs assistance from other people in order to succeed.

“I asked my brother for help,” explains Safet. “He also has a restaurant.

“He helped me a lot. He knows more about this business.”

Owning and operating a restaurant isn’t for the faint of heart. “This business is hard,”

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Safet admits. “I worked hard to come here, and I still work hard.”

He continues, “You have to be on top of things at all times.” Safet explains that, as owner-operator, he isn’t free to take off work anytime he wants.

“Then, you lose,” he adds. Safet feels he must consistently work hard in order to avoid losing the business he has built so far.

But, the restaurant industry also has its good points, he says. Safet has enjoyed meeting new people, making friends, and getting to know his customers.

“It’s a good business.”

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Safet has adopted a simple but effective philosophy at Berne Dining...“Good food, good service – that’s it.” The importance of quality is obvious, but Safet says variety in the menu is vital, as well.

Berne Dining serves a full breakfast menu – including biscuits and gravy, omelettes, pancakes, steak and eggs, and breakfast sandwiches – all day long. The lunch menu features a wide variety of burgers and sandwiches, as well as soup, salads and serve-yourself salad bar.

A full dinner menu is available in the evenings, Monday through Saturday.

Special buffets, including prime rib, are offered on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sundays from mid-morning through 3 p.m.

Because all customers are unique – and, each has his own individual likes and dislike – Safet regularly makes the effort to add new items to the menu. He does this on a daily basis by offering a different special of the day.

Safet also stresses that customers should be treated kindly. “You have to keep customers happy,” Safet explains.

“You have to smile, and make sure they leave happy.

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“Anywhere you go, you have to treat your customers right, in order to get good business. Even back in Macedonia, the same standards applied.” The success of one’s business depends, in large part, on the satisfaction of the customer.

Safet admits that opening Berne Dining was scary; it’s a risk investing money, time and effort into a new business venture. But, it was a risk he was willing to take in the pursuit of a better life for him and his family.

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“It started out different (from now) because I didn’t know how it was going to go,” Safet explains, adding that the uncertainty has decreased dramatically since he first started last March.

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Safet adds, “I am happy with this job.”

Berne Dining has private seating areas available for holiday parties and other special occasions. As the Christmas season approaches, customers should make large group reservations as early as possible.

With the support of his loving family and loyal friends, Safet moved his family to America in 2006, in pursuit of the American Dream. He opened his own restaurant in the hopes of giving his family a better life. So far, he’s found success. WVL

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a new way of life

COUPLE DELIGHTS AMERICAN TASTE BUDS AT CO CO CHINA Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

S

usan Dong grew up in China. Her family was Buddhist, but they were never devout in their religion. Susan had attended school in China and moved to the United States in 1996 to work at her brother’s restaurant in New Jersey.

Susan knew very little English and began learning it by listening to customers. Even

now, she carries a dictionary to better understand words and phrases that people use here in the U.S. Susan met her husband, Jeff, after she arrived in New Jersey. When she walked into her brother’s restaurant and first saw Jeff working there, she asked his name. He looked very familiar to her. When he responded, she

17

remembered that he had attended the same school as she did while growing up, although they had never spoken to one another.

As the two began talking, they found that they both had the same dream – to open a restaurant – and, they soon fell in love. They were married two years later.

The pair eventually landed in Bluffton, Indiana, where they now operate the popular

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Co Co China Buffet. Jeff is an excellent cook.

Susan’s brother made a point of telling her that if she ever wanted to start her own business, Jeff would be a wonderful cook.

Susan does not do any cooking...at the restaurant or at home. She admits that if she did, people would not come back. She has no interest in learning, either, and jokes, “If you learn more, you have to work more.”

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Susan loves interacting with people, and that’s where she shines. The front counter keeps her busy enough, as she greets customers and makes them feel welcome.

Customers have commented to Susan that Jeff is not as friendly, and they wonder how the husband and wife can be so different. Susan quickly comes to Jeff’s defense, explaining that he is the kindest man, but doesn’t speak English very well. So, he is very quiet.

Susan manages the restaurant well, always making sure that food is fresh and plentiful. Even when there is only a handful of customers in the dining room, the food is never left sitting for very long at the buffet. Fresh-cooked dishes are brought out regularly.

Susan works hard to ensure that her customers return. The secret to making Chinese food taste so good, she says, is to “Americanize it.” Jeff intentionally flavors the dishes to make them more like the traditional American cooking most of us are accustomed to – more acceptable to the American palate.

Tuesday, November 12 • 4-6 p.m.

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Independent Living Apartments Feature: • One and Two Bedrooms • Full Size Kitchen w/ New Kitchen Cabinets • Living / Dining Room w/ New Indirect Lighting • New Bathroom Fixtures • New Flooring & Window Treatments Throughout • Private Patio w/ New Patio Door w/ Built In Blinds • Lawn Care & Snow Removal Service • Discounted Bundled Services: Housekeeping, Meals, & Garage • Free Membership to Muselman Wellness Pavilion Find out how you can make a move into one of these newly remodeled apartments. Basel Haus is located on Swiss Village’s Main Campus off of the West Main Street Entrance in Berne. For more information please contact Michelle McIntosh, Director of Marketing at 260.589.3173 or visit www.swissvillage.org.

“The restaurant business is tough,” Susan admits. “You do the same thing, every day, over and over again, nonstop.”

Restaurant owner-operators typically have little time for family, and vacations are few. While others spend the holidays with family and friends, that time of year is usually the busiest work season for the Dongs and others in the restaurant business. In many other businesses, employees often get weekends off, but these are the busiest days of the week for Susan.

“But it’s worth it,” concludes Susan.

“People are awesome here.”

Susan loves the Bluffton community.

Having come from New Jersey, Susan says there is no comparison between the two. People here are so warm and

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friendly, and Susan has come to love many of them. She enjoys the smalltown life.

When Susan gave birth to their first child, a daughter, she took care of the infant for about ten weeks. But, a restaurant is no place for a baby, so Susan sent the girl to China, where she was cared for by Susan’s mother for the next three years.

The separation broke Susan’s heart.

When she could no longer stand it, Susan brought both her mother and her daughter to the United States. Susan was so happy to be reunited with her daughter, though it took some time before the little girl became reacquainted with her mother.

Seven-and-a-half years later, Susan gave birth to a son. She felt as though she had to start all over again, learning how to care for an infant. But, she determined that time was going to be different – no one else was going to raise her son.

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She had missed out on so many precious moments with her daughter. She would not make the same sacrifice with her son.

Neither Susan nor Jeff had been particularly religious before – or, after – coming to the United States. One day, Susan noticed that a customer was reading a book, so she asked about it.

The customer told her it was a Bible.

“What is a Bible?” asked Susan. The customer offered an explanation and asked if Susan had ever heard of Jesus.

Susan answered, “No. Who is that?”

This conversation opened Susan’s eyes to a different way of life. The customer invited Susan to visit Hope Missionary in Bluffton.

At first, Susan didn’t know if she wanted to go, or what would even happen at

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20

this church, but she agreed to go. The couple picked her up that morning and escorted her inside the church, where they introduced her to others.

Susan was touched by how friendly everyone was. She met many people out in the foyer before the service. Susan sat with her new friends and listened to the sermon.

She says that she doesn’t remember what the minister said, but Susan recalls the feeling of peace that came over her. It was something she had never felt before, and this excited her so much that she went home and told her husband about it.

He also was unsure about it at first, but after attending the church with Susan, he soon agreed that there was something special about this Jesus.

Today, Susan keeps a Chinese-English Bible on the countertop at Co Co China.

She says that the pages are worn and getting old, but she loves that book and doesn’t want another one. It was her first Bible, and she says that she’ll hang on to it.

The buffet at Co Co China features over 80 items. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Entrees are also available for take-out.

Co Co China has received the Fort Wayne Newspapers’ Reader’s Choice award for the past six years. Susan is very proud of this accomplishment and thanks God for her continued success. WVL

CONTACT INFORMATION: 2020 N. Main Street Ste. C Bluffton, IN 46714 (260) 827-0838

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AREA EVENTS CALENDAR

1st

Poetry Coterie

ALCOVE & Friends Holiday Art Show Opens 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

Under the Streetlight

7:30 p.m.

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

2nd

Gingerbread Junction 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

YWCA Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6639

Gun Show Opens

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

Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (765) 855-3836

Turkey Trot 5K

10:00 a.m.

Cooper Farms Plant St. Henry, Ohio (419) 375-4116

A Celebration of Faith & Joy 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

First Baptist Church Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1558

Original Couriers w/New Dawning 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120

Marsh After Dark 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Loblolly Marsh Bryant, Indiana (260) 368-7428

Legends Night

8:30 p.m.

Black Swamp Bistro Van Wert, Ohio (567) 259-3064

Girls Book Club 4:00 p.m.

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

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

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

5th

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 Noon - 2:00 p.m.

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

Boys Book Club

4:00 p.m.

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

6th

4

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

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

8th Healthy & Easy Cooking 10:00 a.m.

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

SBA Christmas Sneak Preview Opens Participating Businesses Decatur, Indiana www.decatursba.com

9th

Christmas Bazaar/Bake Sale 8:00 a.m.

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

Delts Annual Craft Show 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Jay County High School Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4091

Lincoln Highway Run/Ride 10:00 a.m.

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

Fish Fry

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Jay County Conservation Club Portland, Indiana (260) 726-9548

Saturday Nite @ the Village 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

Library Bookworms

The Overtones Quartet

7th

Susan Ashton Concert

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

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

Christmas Card Making 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

OSU Marching Band

th

1

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

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

7:30 p.m.

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

w/Summit City Chorus 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120 7:30 p.m.

Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

10th U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Celebration 2:00 p.m.

Museum of the Soldier Portland, Indiana (260) 729-7017

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

History of Van Wert Hospital

2:00 p.m.

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

11th

Veterans Day Celebration Noon - 6:00 p.m.

Museum of the Soldier Portland, Indiana (260) 729-7017

Cooking Class

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

Bluffton Middle School Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

12

th

Blood Pressure Checks Noon - 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

Suites N Treats Open House 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Swiss Village Basel Haus Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

Boys Book Club

4:00 p.m.

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

Cookbook Club

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

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

Cake Decorating Class 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Fibre Artists

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

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

Celebration of Lights 6:30 p.m.

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

13th

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

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

14th

Midday Music

Noon - 12:30 p.m.

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

JL Trekkers

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

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

Coupon Class

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Who Picked This Book?

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

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

My Three Angels Opens 8:00 p.m.

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

15th

Eating Healthy for the Holidays Cooking Demo 2:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173

YWCA Festival of Trees 6:00 p.m.

Willow Bend Country Club Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6639

Best Christmas Pageant Ever

7:00 p.m.

County Courthouse Auditorium Portland, Indiana jaycivic.webs.com

16th

Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Conservation Club Ossian, Indiana www.appleseedusa.org

Childbirth Class

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

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

Annual Artist Member Exhibit & Sale Opens 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Best Christmas Pageant Ever

2:00 p.m.

County Courthouse Auditorium Portland, Indiana jaycivic.webs.com

Heartland Harvest Quartet Convention 2:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120

Best Christmas Pageant Ever

7:00 p.m.

County Courthouse Auditorium Portland, Indiana jaycivic.webs.com

Trace Adkins Concert 7:30 p.m.

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

Higgins-Madewell Concert 9:00 p.m.

Black Swamp Bistro Van Wert, Ohio (567) 259-3064

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

2

23

17th

Craft It

Rifle Marksmanship & Heritage Clinic 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Conservation Club Ossian, Indiana www.appleseedusa.org

20th Senior Luncheon

18th

Blood Pressure Checks 12:30 p.m.

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

Senior BINGO

1:00 p.m.

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

All Books Considered 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

Evening Book Club

7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Ft. Recovery Public Library Ft. Recovery, Ohio (419) 375-2869

19th

Senior BINGO

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

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

Tissue Paper Flower Craft 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Holiday Cards & Newsletters

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

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

21st Seniors Theater Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

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

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

Wells Community Building Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412

SBA Christmas Open House Participating Businesses Decatur, Indiana www.decatursba.com

23rd Kids Breakfast & Karnival 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

East Jay Middle School Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

Free Movie at the Ritz 11:30 a.m.

Ritz Theater Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

Downtown Carriage Rides Noon - 3:00 p.m.

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

Little Miss Winterfest 2:00 p.m.

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

Christmas at the Courthouse

24th

7:30 p.m.

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

22nd

Remembering the JFK Assassination

Slow Cooking at Its Best

6:00 p.m.

Willow Bend Country Club Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6639

Parade of Lights

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

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

4:00 p.m.

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

YWCA Festival of Trees

Poetry Jam

Fall Bazaar

Boys Book Club

3

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

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

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

8:30 a.m.

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

24

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

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

1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

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

Holiday Benefit Auction 6:00 p.m.

Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

6:00 p.m.

Downtown Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

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

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

Holiday Home Tours 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Various Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

Taste of the Holidays 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

East Jay Middle School Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

25th Networking Luncheon Noon Jay County Hospital Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

26th

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

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

CHRISTNER’S (260)728-2151

27th Book & Lunch Club

10:30 a.m.

Ft. Recovery Public Library Ft. Recovery, Ohio (419) 375-2869

29th Holiday Open House 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Participating Businesses Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6911

Weihnachtsfest

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

Downtown Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8080

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

310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN

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

www.pizzakingofdecatur.com HOURS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Lighting of Seven Oaks

6:00 p.m.

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

30th Homespun Holiday Craft & Vendor Show 9:00 a.m.

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

GardenGallery

GREENHOUSE

Rainbow Lake 5K

10:00 a.m.

Limberlost State Historic Site Geneva, Indiana (260) 589-2101

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

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

A Hometown Christmas 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Various Delphos, Ohio (419) 695-1771

5869 N. SR 101 Decatur, IN 46733

Winter Openhouse

November 30th Open: 10a.m. - 6 p.m.

Light Refreshments Indoor/Outdor Decor Fall Clearance

GARDEN GALLERY

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SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

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lunch in the tea room

VAN WERT SHOP OFFERS NOONTIME DINING ON FRIDAYS Article & Photos by Ashley Olson

“D

eShia is a little out of the way, but always out of the ordinary,” says Karen Miller, owner of the cozy luncheonette and craft store. “It’s a feelgood shop.

“When you walk out, you’re always glad you came. It always makes you feel good about the experience.” Making customers feel good has been Miller’s mission since opening DeShia in 1988.

When the Van Wert, Ohio, shop first opened on Hwy 127, it was much smaller than its current size, but just as cute. However, with their success over the years, the Millers have invested in two additions to the store, making space for the Great Room, which houses crafts and other fine products, and a tea room/ luncheonette.

The latter addition was built in 1998, with the intention of using it for storage. However,

27

Miller and her husband, Rob, decided to make it a Christmas room for their popular Christmas Open House events.

Eventually, they found even more use for the area, turning it into a tea room called the Gathering Place. This quaint area serves lunch every Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and takes reservations for special groups on any day of the week.

Karen mentions recently hosting the Wren Garden Club. There is also a big meal for the aforementioned Christmas Open House, which runs from November 1st-3rd this year.

Miller says that last year, 86 people ate at the Christmas Open House luncheon.

The Gathering Place menu includes turkey and ham paninis, turkey, ham and chicken salad croissants, various beverages, desserts,

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and salad with homemade dressing.

Miller notes that many people love her homemade salad dressing and try in vain to get the secret recipe.

She describes her luncheon staff as “friendly, cute and knowledgeable.”

Those who don’t make it to lunch in time can still visit DeShia for a fine selection of gourmet food. Miller tries to offer the “best gourmet foods that you can get.”

What’s particularly nice about browsing DeShia’s gourmet foods section are numerous free samples. In the short time I spent with Karen, I was treated to various types of cookies, French Vanilla Chai tea, pink lemonade and bread with pumpkin spread.

If you’d like to do some shopping after eating lunch or trying gourmet foods at DeShia, you can head over to the Great Room and main retail area. This country shop has a wide variety of crafts, candles, handbags, home decor, jewelry, ponchos, scarves, vintage lighting and other unique gifts.

In addition, DeShia features children’s toys, boutique-style fashion, holiday decorations, runners and valance placemats.

Miller strives to display only topquality products in her store. Any item that’s scratched or even slightly damaged never sees DeShia’s shelves.

“We make sure our customers get the very best. Our staff is trained to know that if you wouldn’t buy it yourself, you don’t put it on our floor.”

DeShia also features workshops and other events throughout the year. “We

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2898 S 000 Rd Monroe, Indiana

Lighting

PRODUCTS

26th Annual

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he

T

DeShia

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Country Shoppe

419.238.2271 11830 US RT 127 Van Wert, OH www.deshia.com facebook.com/deshiadirect

817 N US 27

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do a number of special events, such as the Christmas Open House...Santa and Mrs. Claus come to visit...we’ve done fifties-themed events....”

Miller adds, “Our Fairy Gardens workshops are always popular. I did three of those this summer.” Workshop attendees create miniature gardens to use as home decor.

Amazingly, the shop/luncheonette was nothing more than a pole barn 25 years ago. Karen and her husband Rob purchased the property when Rob became superintendent of the nearby Ohio City school system.

With Rob’s demanding job, and Karen working at the bank, it was not their intention to transform the barn into a big store. Instead, they purchased a furnace for twenty-five dollars and made a few interior improvements.

Shortly thereafter, the couple began hosting their annual Christmas Open House and selling Christmas trees.

Marla Clauser

REALTOR®

Eventually, the Millers stood at a crossroads with the barn because Rob thought that they either needed to do something more significant with it or sell the place. Karen began laying the groundwork for a store.

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“I looked at other shops,” she says. “The first year, all we had was one table, and the walls were bare. The community has accepted us and helped us grow.

And, you have to have good customers to keep growing.”

Karen has worked hard to repay the Van Wert community for helping her business grow over the last two-and-ahalf decades. She’s donated plenty of

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food through her various events, such as the Harvest Fest.

Miller also serves as an amateur tour guide to visitors from outside the Van Wert area. “When people stop here, I suggest that they see the first county library in U.S. I also point them towards the Van Wert County Courthouse.

“We’re pretty good about seeing that people get flyers that show what this town offers.”

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With her location a mile outside of Van Wert, Karen also feels as if she welcomes many people into the town.

“We’re kind of like a doorway to Van Wert. We try to put forth a positive picture as a friendly hometown community.”

Meeting the people who’ve come into her shop over the years has been extremely rewarding for Miller. “I love the people and every part of my job. I like everything about what I’m doing.

“We know that we make people feel good, and that makes us feel good.” She adds that some customers even feel like a part of her family.

If you’d like to join Miller’s growing family of customers, stop by DeShia this holiday season and check out some of their fall and Christmas decorations.

And if you get hungry, don’t worry, because you’ll find a variety of delectable gourmet foods and samples around the store. WVL

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Coffee – Tea – Espresso Pastries – Desserts – Smoothies

CONTACT INFORMATION:

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THE HOPE CHEST MAKING LIFE BETTER IN ADAMS COUNTY Article & Photos by Tara Steffen

T

The Hope Chest first operated in the basement of the church. Since that time, it has evolved and moved at least four times. The shop’s current location is on South 2nd Street.

Over 25 years ago, Decatur’s First United Methodist Church had a vision to help those who found it difficult to provide for themselves.

The Hope Chest’s retail store functions in a couple of ways. First, donations are accepted from area residents – things like clothing, shoes and small household items. Items should be brought into the store and never left outside.

Customers benefit from the low prices,

he Hope Chest in Decatur, Indiana, is “a little shop with a big heart.” This ministry reaches out to those who find themselves the victim of bad circumstances and to those who are down on their luck. The Hope Chest makes many necessities affordable to those in need.

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whether it’s being able to afford something they normally couldn’t or, perhaps, having a little extra spending money when their shopping is done.

The original store price tag is still intact on some donated items. The Hope Chest receives many “new” items from area churches and individuals who donate throughout the year.

They recently just received several new items from a church collection box in Magley. Tami Smith, the store manager, is so excited to be

able to call someone with news that items they had requested have been donated, and they may come pick these up.

The Hope Chest also receives donations of running shoes from Three Rivers Running Company in Fort Wayne. Used shoes are laundered, but many are brand-new, and lots of good name brands are included. These come about every other month.

While saving money or finding more at an affordable price is helpful for many, The Hope

Chest does even more for its neediest customers. When someone comes into the store and needs, say, a winter coat, and the store doesn’t have one, or it’s not the right size, an employee can purchase the needed item with money from sales made at the store.

The Hope Chest provides clothing for people ahead of a job interview.

Donations of suits or dark dress pants are needed regularly.

One of The Hope Chest’s biggest demands has been affordable diabetic socks.

Through store proceeds, the organization is able to purchase these at wholesale and resell them in the shop.

The Hope Chest has around 10 regular volunteer employees. Tami says the shop could not operate without these people.

None of them are paid. Volunteers usually assist with inspecting the donated items, making sure that they are not soiled or are in working condition. Volunteers are also in charge of pricing items.

Over the past three years, Tami has watched this ministry continue its growth. In addition to the retail shop and its services, several new events have been established at The Hope Chest to aid more people in the greater Adams County community.

In March, The Hope Chest holds a prom dress event. The shop solicits donations of used prom dresses around this time.

These dresses are then given, at no cost, to area high school students who’d like to have a nice dress for prom but couldn’t afford to purchase one.

Through the summer, The Hope Chest holds drives to collect school supplies.

Donations are accepted at the Kekionga Festival, and the Decatur Small Business Association also seeks donations to help support the children who will soon be going back to school. In partnership with The Hope Chest, these groups accept items like backpacks, clothing, school supplies...really anything kids will need as they return to school.

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The Hope Chest receives referrals from all three school corporations in Adams County. Families bring school lists to the shop, and The Hope Chest employees do everything they can to fill the lists. This year alone, The Hope Chest provided school supplies to more than 100 students.

In October, Bellmont High School’s National Honor Society holds a winter coat drive for The Hope Chest. Tami is touched by the way these students want to help out their community. Monetary donations are also accepted during this drive – the cash allows The Hope Chest to provide coats for more people.

Each fall, partnering with the Decatur Small Business Association, The Hope Chest holds an open house to launch their Christmas drive. They also place jars at area businesses for their Christmas Jar program, based on an idea from the book, “The Christmas Jar.” Last year, The Hope Chest collected about $100-$120 per jar. The cash was handed out to those in the community who had fallen on hard times. Tami is hoping to double what they collected last year.

For those wishing to make donations, Tami stresses again that items should be brought into the store and not left at the back door. All donated items are inspected, and only the higher quality items are kept. A good guide for donors is, if you would throw it away at home, don’t “donate” it to someone else.

When you shop at The Hope Chest, keep in mind that you are supporting the less fortunate in the community. And, donations are always welcome. WVL

260.726.7343 Mike Blowers, Owner

CONTACT INFORMATION: 127 S. 2nd Street Decatur, IN 46733

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friendly faces, good times

CUSTOMERS ARE FAMILY AT BRIAR PATCH IN PENNVILLE Article & Photos by Amy Schlichter

I

f you are interested in small-town history and great food, the Briar Patch Bar & Grill in Pennville, Indiana, is an engaging spot for dinner. With a homey atmosphere, the stories of hundreds of years of history have been reminisced over and again within these walls.

The Rays put a good deal of hard work and commitment into reopening after the eatery had been closed for five years. Their mission is to continue offering a place for area residents to gather and dine.

Briar Patch owners, Rob & Robbie Ray, purchased the restaurant from long-time owner Norma Berry in 2012. After operating the restaurant for 20 years, Norma was forced to close due to illness.

The Briar Patch is “your ideal everyone-knowseveryone kind of place,” says Robbie. She’s able to call most of her customers by name and personally knows many of their families.

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The inviting atmosphere makes you feel as though you belong, and each person that I spoke to during my visit was incredibly friendly.

Several were eager to tell stories about the small town of Pennville.

A mural on one wall, painted by Eric Hanlin nearly 22 years ago, depicts a scene of friendly faces and good times, not unlike an evening at the Briar Patch. Many of the people in the painting are still around today.

The cute awnings and picket fence around the Briar Patch reflect Robbie’s friendly personality and warm heart. She speaks of her customers as though her life were completely entwined with theirs. Her caring attitude is evident as she describes her passion to create a “place for people” in this small town.

Customers gaze at the mural as if it has taken them back to another time. With a quick smile, Robbie admits that there are many stories and old tales that she doesn’t know all the details about, but her husband has quite an interest in the history of the community.

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The smell of food and sense of fun in the restaurant are appealing. Free pool, along with the 10-foot theater screen hanging on the wall, represent many occasions of fun and laughter.

Instead of a jukebox, the Briar Patch offers something a bit more modern. Customers choose a song they would like to hear, and a music video plays on the large screen, which conveniently lowers with the use of a remote. It’s the next best thing to live entertainment – and, much cheaper!

Customers like taking turns “as the deejay,” and everyone enjoys the music.

While Rob works full-time outside the restaurant, Robbie is quick to explain how valuable he is to the business. “There is not anything he cannot do or cannot fix,” she says of her husband. “We could not do this without him!”

Married for 25 years, Rob and Robbie and their three children and five grandchildren have become well-known in the Jay County area. They employ four at the Briar Patch, and along with Rob, who acts as the “maintenance man,” they all work quite well together.

Rob’s grandfather, Harley Geeseaman, must have passed down some of his handyman talents to his grandson. After serving in World War II with the 97th infantry, Harley built lots of houses in Pennville and also restored the old log cabin on Highway 1. The cabin is a major focal point in the county, as it was used in freeing slaves as part of the Underground Railroad.

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The Briar Patch has become an asset to other small businesses in town, as well.

Robbie explains, “Adair Processing, just down the street, offers the best sausage in the world. Everyone wants to know where we get our meat from.”

Adair’s is the restaurant’s main source for meat products, while Georges’ Grocery on Highway 1 provides convenience for purchasing other restaurant necessities or picking up something at the last minute.

Robbie is eager to recognize the other business owners in town and tell of how

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The Briar Patch has hosted many events for the community in its small building.

In addition to wedding receptions, the restaurant has also been the site of a funeral and several benefits for hurting families.

Most recently, the Briar Patch hosted Jim Crosby’s ninety-second birthday party. Jim Crosby was a “jumper” in World War II, and as Robbie speaks of him, she smiles and says he will be missed. Mr. Crosby passed away since the party, but his family still visit the Briar Patch regularly, and the Rays also deliver food to his widow. They deliver to many homes where it is hard for families to get out, especially during the cold winter months.

The menu at the Briar Patch is simple... and, simply amazing. The restaurant serves breakfast everyday and also offers a daily special. Two favorites are the ribs on Wednesdays and the steak and salad bar on Friday evenings.

Briar Patch hours are 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday, and 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. Carryout and delivery orders may be placed over the phone.

If you take a drive to Pennville, be sure to look for the picket fence and stop for a meal at the Briar Patch. You may learn some history as you enjoy a brat burger or a slab of ribs. Whatever the conversation, it is sure to be friendly.

Mention this article and receive a free beverage with your meal. WVL

CONTACT INFORMATION:

1327 US Hwy 27 N

190 S. Washington Street Pennville, IN 47369

Berne, IN 46711

Next to East of Chicago Pizza

(260) 731-4600

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

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it’s all in the family

THREE BROTHERS TOSSING PIES AT SUMAN BROS. PIZZA Article & Photos by Amy Schlichter

N

ot only are the Suman brothers great at making pizza, but they also come from a very interesting line of dedicated business owners and committed farmers. The food industry is not new to the three brothers, and they aim to bring family dining back to the Pennville area by offering some of America’s favorite foods.

With a location right on Highway 1, Suman Bros. Pizza is easy to find – and, you cannot miss the signage on the exterior of their building. The restaurant, which held its grand

opening on October 1st, brings a new and fun atmosphere to the Pennville area.

The family dining area is inviting and pleasant.

The totally renovated facility features simple family decor, fresh paint, and a brand-new full kitchen. This is clean family dining at its best!

It won’t take long for Suman Bros. to become a hometown favorite.

My own family has enjoyed Suman Bros.

Pizza’s menu, including pizza, subs, wings, wraps, salads, and appetizers, at a number of

41

mealtimes already. Suman Bros. Pizza’s warm, homemade breadsticks are sure to be an alltime favorite for after-school snacks.

Jason, Daniel, and Ryan Suman hale from well-known, hard-working families in Jay and Adams counties. Being the grandchildren of Jack and Patty Adkinson of Decatur gives the brothers rich experience in the food industry.

The Adkinsons owned the Pioneer Restaurant next to the courthouse in Adams County for many years.

Nearly every employee of Pioneer Restaurant was related. From taking orders to washing dishes, it was the labor of this family unit that kept the establishment thriving. The family sold the Pioneer 20 years ago. Even though two decades have passed, the boys still remember the restaurant as a rich part of their childhood.

Many of the menu items at Suman Bros.

Pizza are named in memory of the brothers’ grandparents. Their original “Gordy’s Supreme” was created in memory of Grandpa Gordon Suman from Pleasant Mills. Gordon, along with his six brothers, fought bravely in World War II. A Marine, Gordy served in the Pacific and settled into farming when he returned home.

The elder generation of Suman brothers came home from the war, with the exception of one, sadly, who died in France.

Grandma Suman’s Garden Sub, my personal favorite, was named after Grandma Lois Suman. This eight or twelve-inch sub is made with a touch of innovation by Jason’s oldest daughter, Taylor. The 11-year old has created a one-of-a-kind coleslaw that is the perfect topper to this tasty sub. This is sure to be one of the top best sellers at Suman Bros. Pizza.

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Specialty pizzas available at Suman Bros. include Buffalo Chicken, Chicken Bacon Ranch, Chicken Supreme, Meat Lover’s, Thousand Island Burger, Chicken Club, Tropical Island, and Taco Pizza. Of course, pepperoni and plain cheese pizzas are also available.

Suman Bros. offers both thick and thin crusts, and homemade breadsticks and homemade sauce prepared daily in the kitchen. Have you ever had a pizza or sub wrap? This delicious item is quite simple – a seven-inch pizza dough, topped with your choice of ingredients, is wrapped and baked to perfection.

Making meals easily available to the community is a priority to the Suman brothers. They offer delivery up to four miles outside of Pennville, and the drivers are able to accept credit and debit cards at your door.

Suman Bros. also offers “pick-up points” for families that live farther away. Drivers meet up with customers who reside outside of the delivery area.

Restaurant hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Be sure to “like” them on Facebook to stay informed about online specials. Suman Bros. is known to be generous with offers of free pizza and discounted meals.

Stop by and enjoy some boneless wings and a soda while you watch your favorite game on the big screen! This kid-friendly environment makes a great hangout spot on the weekends.

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Mention this article when ordering and receive a 10% discount off your entire meal. WVL

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Berne, IN 46711

CONTACT INFORMATION: 170 N. Union Street Pennville, IN 47369

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MEATS – CHEESES BULK FOODS – SPICES 43

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MCDONALD’S 776 U.S. 27 North Berne, IN 260.589.2327

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