Wabash Valley Living October 2015 Edition

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LIVING OCTOBER 2015

AUTUMN VARIETY FEATURING ADAMS • JAY • MERCER • VAN WERT • WELLS COUNTIES

2009 • OBSERVING 6 YEARS IN PRINT • 2015

Build-Your-Business

ADVERTISING

GIVEAWAY Win a FULL YEAR OF ADVERTISING in Wabash Valley Living! ($1500 value) PLUS, a Feature Article in July 2016

CONTEST IS OPEN TO ANY ENTREPRENEUR WHO HAS ESTABLISHED A NEW BUSINESS IN ADAMS, JAY, MERCER, VAN WERT OR WELLS COUNTY WITHIN THE PAST TWO YEARS

1 CREATE VIDEO SUBMISSION –––––In 2 minutes or less, tell us the story behind your business, show us what you do, and describe what a year of free advertising could mean for your company. Post your clip on YouTube and send a link to us at info@wabashvalleyliving.com.–––––

2 COMPLETE AN ENTRY FORM –––––Download an entry form at www.facebook.com/wabashvalleyliving. (While you’re there, be sure to “like” us!) Complete the form and return it to us by mail or email. Video link and entry form are due no later than November 13, 2015.–––––

3 CAMPAIGN FOR VOTES –––––Get your friends, family, and customers to vote for your business by “liking” the video you posted on YouTube. Voting opens November 23, 2015 and ends on December 11, 2015. Winner determined by highest number of votes.––––– Presented by

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LIVING

Your Guide to Adams-Jay-Mercer-Van Wert & Wells Counties!

Volume 7 | Number 10 | October 2015

Editor

OCTOBER 2015

AMY M. ORR Contributors DEE FISHER JACI GORRELL JIM KIRKWOOD KRISTI SEARLES BETH STEURY

ON THE COVER: Humble Bumble Boutique for Kids Van Wert, Ohio

Advertising ED FERGUSON MARY ANN SEAVERS

Photo by Ed Ferguson Ed Ferguson Photography

www.wabashvalleyliving.com

info@wabashvalleyliving.com

!

Priority:LOCAL Publishing

© Priority Local Publishing, LLC 2015 346 U.S. Hwy. 27 North, Berne, IN 46711

(260)849-2187

CONTENTS

Locally Owned & Operated Since 2009

Wabash Valley Living is printed by:

5 HUMBLE BUMBLE BOUTIQUE Van Wert, Ohio | Fun Fashions for Girls & Boys

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

11 MARKLE HEALTH & REHAB

Markle, Indiana | Caregiving and Quality of Life

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A Perfect Blend Adams Memorial Hospital Amishville USA Becky's Village Restaurant Biggs Property Manage Bixler Insurance BlackBird Boutique Bluffton Tire Century 21 Advance Realty Chain Reaction Bike Courtyard Lakes Villas D & H Workshop D. L. Schwartz Co. dasMarit Farmers & Artists Earthen Treasures East of Chicago Edelweiss Floral Eichhorn Jewelry Engine House Quilt Shop Geels Backhoe Gersh's Carpet Cleaning Graber Insurance Heller Nursery Honegger Ringger & Co Humble Bumble

14 48 13 25 19 44 20 15 39 19 9 40 36 43 45 38 8 10 30 20 37 37 15 38 6

Indiana Technical Install Jerry Flack Financial Serv Joe's Lighting Products Karen's Treasures Lillie's Tin Ceiling Limberlost Massage&Well Markle Antique Mall Milo Schwartz Terriers MR Planners Pasquetti's Italian Pizza King of Decatur Re-Elect Matt Dyer River Terrace Retirement Schwartz Manufacturing Schwartz Marathon Signature Healthcare Simon's Mfg Steve Rich Insurance Swiss Village Retirement Swissland Cheese Co Troxel Equipment Van Wert CVB Velocity Motors Willshire Home Furnishing Zurcher's Best-One Tire

29 14 38 10 7 43 13 8 18 12 25 10 21 44 32 28 8 20 42 45 4 9 30 7 4

17 HAUNTED DECATUR TOURS Decatur, Indiana | Fifth Year for Fright Event

22 Calendar of Events 29 BKM REAL ESTATE & AUCTION Bluffton, Indiana | A Team Approach to Success

35 GRABER INSURANCE

Berne, Indiana | Times Change, Family is Forever

33 Search Contest 41 MACK ARENA

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46 Clip & Save Coupons

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HUMBLE BUMBLE BOUTIQUE FOR KIDS:

Fun Fashions for Girls & Boys Article by Dee Fisher - Photos by Ed Ferguson

H

ave you ever taken a look at the history of clothing? It’s a fascinating study, seeing how everyday clothing has become more comfortable—and somewhat more revealing—as well as less gender or age specific.

For instance, the clothing our children wear now is quite different from what children wore a century or more ago. Children were seen as small adults, and when they reached a certain age, their clothing was simply adult clothing made for smaller sizes.

Infants often wore exactly the same shapeless outfits with no thought toward the child’s gender. I remember seeing a picture of my grandfather as a toddler with his sister, and their outfits were remarkably similar. Had my great-aunt not told me that the little one next to her was her brother, I wouldn’t have guessed it!

In the twentieth century, children’s clothing began to change into more utilitarian and gender-specific styles. For the most part, children’s clothing fashions began to reflect

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

5

their age and activity styles.

No respectable adult would be caught in clothing made in children’s styles—except, perhaps, on Halloween!

Nowadays, there are stores dedicated to children’s clothing and accessories.

Big box stores like Kids R Us and The Children’s Place are commonplace in our society, and nearly all large clothing retailers have a children’s section in their stores.

Smaller communities aren’t always so lucky. The selection for children is often minimal, with few fashionable touches. Van Wert was one of those towns until this summer—August, to be specific. During the massive weekend of garage sales all along U.S. Route 127, a small store called Humble Bumble Boutique for Kids opened its doors for business, right on 127.

Owners Ashley and Jeremy Olson have been involved in a lot of different businesses in their life together, but this one is special. “I have always wanted to start a business with Jeremy,” Ashley smiles.

“I had noticed that Van Wert had no dedicated children’s store, and, since I really don’t like the big box stores, I thought this business would be a great fit for us and for the community!”

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A Portion of Proceeds will be DONATED to Breast Cancer Research mble At Hu ble Bum line– on and

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Both local and national brands are represented. Nearby Ohio product lines include My Freckled Princess Boutique clothing and Little Cupcake Boutique hair accessories.

National brands at Humble Bumble include: • Skip Hop bags • Bella-Tunno diaper bags and baby supplies • Silly Billyz bibs and burp cloths, • Chooze shoes • Jelly the Pug hand-smocked clothing

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Currently, Humble Bumble stocks children’s clothing for both boys and girls, including outerwear and shoes, as well as little girls’ jewelry and unique toys for both sexes. Clothing sizes run the gamut, from infant sizes to girls’ size 12/14 and boys’ size 10.

Home Furnishings

“The building we’re in now is actually our second location,” says Ashley. “We felt it had great visibility and parking.

Besides, one of my great loves is interior design, and this lets me ‘do my thing,’ so to speak!”

W

In order to get the boutique in operation, Ashley and Jeremy started by borrowing space at Once I Was— another downtown Van Wert business.

The owner, Vickie Schulte, has been instrumental in helping small startups and home businesses to reach out in the community and enlarge their customer base.

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“The alliteration is memorable, and we’re humble people. So, our business became Humble Bumble.”

ILLSHIRE

The name of their boutique is borrowed from another creative venture. “I love bees,” Ashley explains. “In fact, I wrote a children’s book, called Humble Bumble Moose, about a moose who wanted bee wings.

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Ashley also carries Itzy Ritzy’s Teething Happens™ Chewable Jewelry for Moms (safe for baby’s mouth). Toys from Jack Rabbit Creations, Little Jelly Cat, and Blabla round off the main part of the store’s wares.

“We had a great opening weekend and continued with summer sales throughout August. Our fall inventory is here now. As days grow shorter, sleeves are getting longer, and we have some great outfits for the changing season, including both girls and boys jackets.”

One of their newest suppliers is BeYOUtiful Girl, a unique luxur y skincare line for girls. BeYOUtiful Girl was created to teach girls good skincare habits. “This line for girls offers lotions, daily facial moisturizers, facial cleansers, and body splashes—plus it’s another local Van Wert business!”

In the future, Ashley and Jeremy would like to expand into maternity clothing. “We’re taking small steps in

Monroe, Indiana Voicemail: (260) 768-8189

8

Van Wert County

our business,” Ashley advises. “One thing at a time.

“Something we’d like to do physically is to expand the store area to the back of the building. That would give us so much more room to arrange our displays, and I could really be creative with the design of the space.”

Business expansion is the name of the game for the Olsons. They are anticipating being able to sell products from their Facebook page in November, “which should really open up our customer base,” Ashley says. “We are also working on having a website up and going next year.”

According to Ashley, shoppers will save 15% on all pink Humble Bumble merchandise during the month of October. Ten percent of the proceeds from pink purchases will be donated for breast cancer research.

On October 24th, the Olsons will be setting up a booth at La Chic Vintage Market at the Plex South in Fort Wayne. This upscale vintage market will include upcycled, repurposed, and vintage items, as well as home decor and boutique clothing. It’s billed as “not your Grandma’s flea market!”

In the meantime, the Olsons are daily adding fall and winter items to their inventory and welcoming all the local attention they’ve been getting. It’s a great place to shop for the children in your life! #

HUMBLE BUMBLE BOUTIQUE FOR KIDS 229 S. Washington Street Van Wert, OH 45891

(419) 604-0976 See their Facebook page!

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MARKLE HEALTH & REHABILITATION:

Caregiving and Quality of Life Article by Kristi Searles - Photos by Ed Ferguson

PHOTO PROVIDED

F

ive-star healthcare facility Markle Health and Rehabilitation is nestled in the quiet, caring community of Markle, Indiana. In October, the facility will accept the American Health Association’s Bronze Award for “commitment to quality.”

Together, the skilled nursing staff and the community make residents feel genuinely loved and cared for.

Currently, Markle Health & Rehabilitation maintains 86 beds for rehabilitation and 26 beds in the Alzheimer’s unit. Most clients come from Wells and Huntington counties.

Markle Health & Rehabilitation became part of the community in 2006. It is one of nearly 90 facilities across Indiana and Kentucky operated by American Senior Communities.

Vicki Shepherd, Executive Director of the Markle facility, reports, “Here at Markle, we specialize in rehabilitation-to-home stays and Auguste’s Cottage Memory Care Center

Belinda Clancy, Director of Marketing & Admissions, adds, “Ninety-percent of our referrals are based on word-of-mouth and the community.”

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

11

for Alzheimer’s. We take pride in our large, private suites for residents.”

Auguste’s Cottage is a research-based program that utilizes the personcentered model. Auguste’s Cottage provides memory care for residents by making them feel they are at home by surrounding them with “special items from their past.” The primary focus of the program is to maintain quality of life.

“We are proud of our memory care unit,” Vicki says. “It is very secure, and we work diligently to meet the residents’ needs, as opposed to having the resident fit into our routine.”

Ver y ex tensive training is required for any staff member who works with residents in the memory care program.

Both Vicki and Belinda know, from personal experience, how difficult the decision is to place a loved one in a residential facility. Both have had close family members living at Markle Health & Rehabilitation.

“I wouldn’t send my family member to a facility that I didn’t believe in,” Belinda confirms.

“I believe in everything the community stands for. It is the same care I can guarantee and provide for my own family.”

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“My dad was here,” says Vicki, “and it helps to be able to say to our clients’ family members, ‘I know how you feel—I have been there!”

Markle Health and Rehabilitation supports family members in a variety of ways. Belinda provides a client’s family members with her personal phone number and lets them know that she is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“When you have experienced it, you know where they are coming from when they call you at 2 a.m.,” she explains.

“One service that sets us apart is our willingness to help families deal with health insurance policies. We want to help families find the best fit for their needs and provide them with answers.”

Belinda continues, “We encourage our family members who have loved ones in the Auguste’s Cottages to attend the Alzheimer’s support group. This group meets every third Wednesday of the month at Parkview Huntington Hospital.”

“Our memory care facilitator is the leader of the support group. We have one of the largest groups,” adds Vicki.

“Karen, our rehabilitation specialist, does a home evaluation before rehabilitation residents return home.

She makes sure that the home is handicap accessible and ready for their return.”

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The staff and residents of Markle Health & Rehabilitation are an active part of the surrounding community. “We truly feel like part of the community here in Markle,” says Vicki.

Markle Health & Rehabilitation sponsors a booth each year at the local Wildcat Festival, and area seniors are invited to the facility the last Wednesday of each month for

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free BINGO. The facility also hosts and provides lunch for meetings of the local chamber of commerce.

In addition to these activities, the staff plans occasional visits to senior apartment complexes in the area, where they host luncheons and cookouts for those residents. “The seniors love it!” Belinda smiles. “They enjoy the smell of the grill, the food, and the social aspect.”

“One of our favorite events of each year, Christmas in Our Town, is held on the first Saturday in December,” says Vicki. “This event takes place at our facility, and everyone is invited to attend.”

During Christmas in Our Town, guests may enjoy free train rides and visit with Santa. Children can shop at Elf Land, where they can buy inexpensive gifts for loved ones and even have them wrapped! Petting zoo animals—such as goats, bunnies, a miniature horse, pot-belly pigs, chickens, ducks, guinea pigs, and a live reindeer—are also onhand. Vicki adds, “Residents love it and look forward to it every year! They love seeing the children and interacting with them.”

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9” Hardy Fall Mums - 5 for $29.95 Markle Health and Rehabilitation provides a variety of outings for their residents, giving them an opportunity to get out and enjoy life. Residents can enjoy a Tin-Caps baseball game, the Fort Wayne Zoo, and dining at area restaurants. There is also a trip to the Pumpkin Kingdom each fall!

Along with outings, daily activities are available to residents. Each morning, they may join Activity Director Julie Bischoff in a fun workout. “If you ask the residents to participate in exercise, they will tell you ‘no,’” she advises.

“So, here at Markle, we call the activity ‘noodle bat,’ ‘balloon bat,’ ‘flyswatter,’ or ‘kickball.’ Julie laughs. “It ends up being one of the residents’ favorite activities!”

Residents can play cards, dominoes, and board games in the activity room.

They also have chances to contribute to charitable causes—some enjoy sewing dresses for girls and women in Africa.

Belinda adds, “Our residents even have the opportunity to wrap gifts for Karing for Kids’ Christmas Angel Tree.”

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A caring staff is probably the most significant asset for a facility like Markle Health & Rehabilitation. “We are all a team,” assures Belinda, “and Vicki starts every day with devotion and prayer.

“There isn’t any member of our staff who isn’t willing to fill in where there is a need.” #

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HAUNTED DECATUR WAGON TOURS:

Fifth Year for Fright Event Article by Beth Steury - Photos by Ed Ferguson

A

history buff since the age of 14 (when he began reading horror classics), Max Miller’s interest in the past was heightened in August 2011. That month, Max hosted a history tour as part of Adams County’s 175th anniversary celebration.

idea how popular the event would be. That first year, the advance purchase tickets for the two-night event sold out in less than two hours. Max and DeeAnn were thrilled by the community’s response to the new Halloween themed activity.

Following the success of that event, Max and DeeAnn Lengerich, owner of Camelot Carriage Rides, brainstormed the idea of a haunted tour at Halloween. They envisioned incorporating a horse-drawn wagon and local ghost stories.

In 2012, the Haunted Decatur Wagon Tours expanded to include both Friday and Saturday nights of two October weekends.

Because the event continued to sell out quickly each year, additional nights were added to the schedule.

When the pair organized the first Haunted Decatur Wagon Tours in 2011, they had no

Last year, each weekend in October found the full-sized, horse-drawn wagon,

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

17

equipped with bench seats, clip - cl o p pin g thr o u gh downtown Decatur. “Each year, we’ve expanded,” says Max. “We sell over 500 tickets, but tickets still sell out really quick.”

The popular event is part of the annual Callithumpian Festival — by def inition, “a loud and boisterous celebration.” This year, the Haunted Decatur Wagon Tours will begin in a different location.

“Originally, we star ted the tours in front of the courthouse,” Max explains.

H o w e v e r, 2015 t o u r s will begin at the “Dugan Mansion,” a.k.a. The Adams County Historical Society Museum on west Monroe COOK Street.

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Tour attendees this year may also take advantage of an expanded experience, lasting approximately 90 minutes, including a pre-tour show inside the museum. Ticket holders will enjoy free admission to “Halloween Nights at the Museum,” where they’ll hear the story of the curse of Stephen Decatur.

“It will be a full evening,” Max assures. He currently serves as president of both the historical society and the Decatur Main Street Association.

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Over the years, Miller’s love of history led him to discover “some really good stories,” many gleaned from old newspapers. DeeAnn and her staff manage the horse-drawn wagon while Max relays true local ghost stories featured in his book, “Tales from the Graveyard Shift: Adams County, Indiana Strange Stories and Urban Legends.”

The stories he shares on the wagon tour vary. One of Max’s favorites concerns the mystery of the “fall of the frogs” that occurred in Decatur in 1936 and 1937. After a heavy rainfall, there were thousands of frogs on the south side of Decatur.

“They believe a tornado over a pond picked them up and then dropped them,” Max explains, “but they can’t understand why it’s always the same creatures—all frogs, turtles, etc. It’s happened in other parts of the world, too.”

The wagon tour route changes up a bit from year to year. “We go as far down as Legion Park, then up 7th Street, and continue through downtown.”

The tour benefits from the ambiance of eerily decorated houses along the route. “We meander the streets,” says DeeAnn. “It’s nice and quiet, except for the clip-clop of the horses.”

The first tour begins at 5:30 p.m., while there’s still plenty of daylight, which appeals to families with children. “We are very family-oriented,” DeeAnn adds. A total of four tours take place each night.

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The wagon seats 14 people. Groups or families often purchase the entire wagon for the history-focused haunted tour. “It’s interesting. Every year, we have some of the same people—every year, for the last 5 years,” observes Max. Tickets sell so quickly, the event requires very little promotion.

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Haunted Decatur Wagon Tour enthusiasts begin clamoring for tickets in August. These are available at Ritter’s Flowers and Gifts, located at 937 N. 2nd Street. Tickets may be reserved by phone but must be paid for (by cash or check) and picked up within 24 hours of reservation.

Admission is $12 per person for the first, third and fourth weekend of October. The $15 price for tickets on Halloween weekend includes a goody bag and other extras.

For updates on ticket availability, visit www.haunteddecaturtours.com as well as the Facebook page Decatur Haunted Wagon Tours.

No wagon tours will take place the second weekend of October. But, Halloween fans can get their fill of ghoulish entertainment at the “Mystery at the Museum” murdermystery dinner party hosted by the Adams Count y Historical

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INDEPENDENT LIVING: Societ y. Contac t the museum at (260)724-3493. or visit www. adamscountyinhistoricalmuseum.com for more information.

The Adams County Historical Museum also hosts “Halloween Nights at the Museum” a self-guided tour through the family-friendly, Halloweendecorated museum from 5 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in October, except the second weekend.

Admission is $2 per person. The museum will also observe city-wide trick-or-treat hours on October 31st from 6 to 8 p.m.

Max says he would like to see Decatur promoted as the “Halloween capital of the Midwest,” with an expanded Callithumpian slate of activities that would draw people from area counties. The city already claims the fame of hosting the oldest Halloween parade in Indiana—the Callithumpian Parade debuted in 1914.

Published in 2013, Max’s book features ghost stories and urban legends from the entire county. “Tales from the Graveyard Shift” may be purchased at Ritter’s Flowers and Gifts, The Next Page Bookstore, and Yvonne Marie’s Antique Mall in Decatur, at the Limberlost State Historic Site Visitor Center in Geneva, and on Amazon. com. Max is the author of five other books focused on various aspects of local history. #

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HAUNTED DECATUR WAGON TOURS Adams County Historical Museum 420 W. Monroe Street Decatur, IN 46733 www.haunteddecaturtours.com

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Cherie Dailey Community Liaison Director

OCTOBER CALENDAR

–1–

Shipshewana Bus Trip Call for Reservations 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

LEGO Club

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

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

LEGO Club

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

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

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

Downtown Central Avenue Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378

–3–

Non-Healthcare Provider CPR Class 8:00 a.m. - Noon Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145

Antique Tractor Pull 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wells County 4-H Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 466-1157

Family LifeCare "Sounds of Hope" Fundraiser 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Lighted Gardens Ossian, Indiana (800) 355-2817

Southern Sound Quartet 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120

–4–

Decatur Flea Market 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Riverside Center Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2341

Genealogy Workshop

Fall Harvest Festival with Flea Market

Shuffleboard League

Main Street USA

Canal Commission Annual German Dinner

Weight Watchers Meeting

Movie at the Branch: Cinderella

Jay County Heritage Festival

Harvest Moon Festival

Historical Society Cemetery Walk

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

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

6:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-4496 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

–2–

Artists in Action

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

Ballentine Gallery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

LEGO Club

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

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

Halloween Nights at the Museum (weekends thru Oct.)

5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Adams County Historical Museum Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-3493

22

Harvest Moon Festival

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

Amishville Campground Geneva, Indiana (260) 589-3536

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

West Jay Middle School Dunkirk, Indiana (765) 808-1292

10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

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

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

Downtown Central Avenue Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378

Jay County Heritage Festival 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Historical Society Grounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168

"Biography of William Wells" by William Heath 3:00 p.m.

Fort Recovery State Museum Fort Recovery, Ohio (419) 375-4649

Farm Toy Show

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

Van Wert County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio http://burnettfarmtoys.com

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

Canal Museum Delphos, Ohio (419) 238-9378

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Historical Society Grounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168

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

Fairview Cemetery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-9956

–5–

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

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

Knit-Along

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

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

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

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

Book Club Gr. 4-5 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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

Mammography Night 4:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

Free Flu Shot Clinic 5:00 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.

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

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

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

–6–

Wells County Chamber Lunch 'n Learn

Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-0510

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

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

Jewelry Class with Becky Lehman 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

PJ Story Hour

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

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

1-2-3 Book Club 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

–7–

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

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

Unwind Wednesdays

–9–

Antique Collectible and Crafts Flea Market Opens (thru Oct. 11th) Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 703-2722

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

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

Artists in Action

–8–

2015 Art Fest

Tri-State Swap & Sell Meet Opens (thru Oct. 10th) 8:00 a.m.

Tri-State Club Grounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4036

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

Healthy Cooking Class Call for Reservations 10:00 a.m. - Noon South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

JL Trekkers

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

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

Thursday Night Cruise-In 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Arby's Restaurant Portland, Indiana (260) 726-8006

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

Night at the Museum: Out of Your Gourd 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Van Wert Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851

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

Ballentine Gallery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Van Wert Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851

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

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

–10–

Zombie Fun Shoot

9:30 a.m.

Outdoorsmen Association Range Van Wert, Ohio (419) 203-5234

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

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

Merchants' & Car Club Cruise-In 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Wayne Street Fort Recovery, Ohio (419) 375-2530

Mystery at the Museum

7:00 p.m.

Adams County Historical Museum Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-3493

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

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

The Great Pumpkin Hunt 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Lancaster Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Mike Super: Magic and Illusion

7:30 p.m.

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

–11–

Lehman Park Harvest Festival 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Lehman Park Berne, Indiana (260) 849-0612

–12–

Knit-Along

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

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

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

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

Brown Bag Book Club 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

38th Annual Baby Day 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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

–13–

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

24

Computer Club

LEGO Club

iPad Club

Weight Watchers Meeting

Cookbook Club

LEGO Club

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

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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

Fiber Arts Group 6:30 p.m.

Creative Arts Center Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

No Boys Allowed! Club 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

No Girls Allowed! Club 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

–16–

Artists in Action

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

Ballentine Gallery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

Van Wert Apple Festival 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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

Seniors Chili Cook-Off

–14–

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

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

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

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

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

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

Needles, Hooks & Pins

LEGO Club

Unwind Wednesdays

Kinder Haus Chicken BBQ

–15–

–17–

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Moms' Morning Out

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

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

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

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

Van Wert Apple Festival

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

2:00 p.m.

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

Fort Recovery State Museum Benefit Auction 5:00 p.m.

Middle School Auditeria Fort Recovery, Ohio (419) 375-4649

(260)728-2151 310 E. Monroe Decatur, IN

The LeFevre Quartet 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120

Creative Arts Fundraising Auction 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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

Singer/Songwriter Polly Gibbons 7:30 p.m.

Arts Place Hall-Moser Theatre Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

7:30 p.m.

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

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

SMORGASBORD DINNER: Tues., Thurs., & Sat. 5p.m. - 9p.m.

15% OFF TOTAL BILL –when you present the coupon on page 46–

Van Wert Dance Club Dance 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Goedde Building Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6571

–19–

Knit-Along

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

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

Blood Pressure Check 12:30 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

Phone: (419) 495-2013

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FISH Fridays @ 4pm

MEXICAN NIGHT

Thursdays 4pm to 9pm

WEEKDAY LUNCH SPECIALS BRICK OVEN SPECIALTY SUBS FRIED CHICKEN and MORE!

301 State Street Willshire, Ohio 45898

Open 5:30am to 9 pm Mon.-Fri./6am to 9pm Sat./7am to 2pm Sun.

25

Free Senior BINGO

1:00 p.m.

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

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

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

Free Senior BINGO

1:00 p.m.

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

"Expedition" by John & LaNae Abnet 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

–20–

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

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

Kids Club

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

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

JL Crew: Knights, Ladies & Dragons 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

–22–

Moms' Morning Out

Go Greenway Glow 5K

Weight Watchers Meeting

Peter Frampton Raw Acoustic Tour

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

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

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

Tasty Trip Around the World 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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

–23–

Artists in Action

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

Ballentine Gallery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222

–24–

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

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

26

1:30 p.m.

Bellmont High School Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604

Murder Inn Dinner Theatre 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Van Wert Senior Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 605-6708

Fall Arts & Crafts Bazaar

Autumn Fest

1:00 p.m.

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

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wells County 4-H Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 438-4634 2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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

Ducks Unlimited Dinner

Pumpkin Dunkin'

Callithumpian Canter 5K & Fun Run

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

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

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

Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

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

–25–

–26–

7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Lancaster Elementary Bluffton, Indiana (260) 919-3144

Community Block Party with The Bulldogs

Unwind Wednesdays

7:30 p.m.

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

Wells County Health Fair

–21–

Needles, Hooks & Pins

7:30 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Lighted Gardens Ossian, Indiana (260) 403-4860

Murder Inn Dinner Theatre 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Van Wert Senior Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 605-6708

Knit-Along

Mom's Support Group

K123 Club: Make It - Take It 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

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

Callithumpian Parade 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Downtown Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604

–27–

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

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

–29–

Moms' Morning Out

The Bulldogs in Concert

Blood Pressure Checks

Weight Watchers Meeting

Murder Inn Dinner Theatre

Red Cross Bloodmobile

Treats at the Tower

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

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

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

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

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

Local Author Night 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

LEGO Club

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

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

South Adams Prayer Support Team Meeting 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

West Missionary Church Berne, Indiana saps.team@yahoo.com

–28–

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

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

Senior Luncheon: Joyful Trombone Noise Noon South Adams Senior Center Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8877

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

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

Kid's Health Fair

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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

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

YMCA Bluffton, Indiana (260) 565-9622

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

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

Muensterberg Plaza Berne, Indiana www.berneclocktower.org

Homemade Card Class 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Hall Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

Riverside Center Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-9591

7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Van Wert Senior Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 605-6708

–31–

Annie's Craft Festival 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Grand Wayne Center Fort Wayne, Indiana AnniesCraftFestival.com

Fall Fright Fest

–30–

11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

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

Grand Wayne Center Fort Wayne, Indiana AnniesCraftFestival.com

2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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

Annie's Craft Festival

Fall Fest

Artists in Action

Trick or Treat

Cards with Carol Call for

The Isaacs

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

Ballentine Gallery Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222 Reservations 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

Boo in Bluffton

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

Downtown Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

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

City Gym Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069

Trick or Treat

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

Downtown Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481

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

City Wide Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-7171 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120

Murder Inn Dinner Theatre 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Van Wert Senior Center Van Wert, Ohio (419) 605-6708

Dr. Wassenstein's Freakhouse 7:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

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

–1– November Annie's Craft Festival 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grand Wayne Center Fort Wayne, Indiana AnniesCraftFestival.com

27

CONGRATULATIONS

to Our Senior Olympics Champions!

COOKPROVIDING LIKE YOU DON’T HAVE TO QUALITY

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1529 W. Lancaster Street - Bluffton, Indiana

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BKM REAL ESTATE & AUCTION:

A Team Approach to Success Article by Kristi Searles

A

dynamic team of professional agents and support staff drives the booming success of BKM Real Estate and Auction.

BKM is the number one listing firm in the tri-county area and is highly ranked in Northeast Indiana.

BKM was first located near the Briner Building on north State Road 1. Later, Bridget relocated the office to West Washington Street across from Thoma Rich Funeral Home. Her love and passion for the community helped her business to flourish.

It all began with a driven Irish woman named Bridget Keeley Manthey. Licensed in Indiana as a real estate agent in 1965, Bridget established BKM Real Estate in Bluffton in January 1992. The same year, she was named REALTOR of the Year by fellow agents in Adams, Jay and Wells counties.

On October 31, 2000, Bridget sold her business to Cyndee Fiechter, though she continued as an agent with BKM. Sometime later, Cyndee moved the business, one more time, to its current location. As BKM continued to grow in the Bluffton market, Cyndee saw a need for a presence in Ossian.

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

29

She hoped to prevent Fort Wayne agencies from taking over the northern portion of Wells County.

In 2001, Cyndee opened a BKM branch in Ossian. The second location has done very well and is currently occupied by three agents.

More than a decade later, Cyndee partnered with licensed auctioneer Sam Haiflich to add auction ser vices to BKM’s real estate offerings in 2011.

Cyndee says auctions have always fascinated her, even when she was a child.

On the other hand, Sam admits, “I never saw myself going into the auction and real estate business.” His present career first began as a way to earn extra money during college.

A company his father had worked with asked Sam if he would be interested in setting up sales for them. Next thing he knew, Sam was working at auctions.

A short time later, he had acquired his licensing to sell real estate and hold auctions.

Today, Sam loves crying the auction and having fun with the crowd. “I really enjoy it!” he says.

Adding the auction services has allowed BKM to serve their clients better. “Especially, when there’s an estate,” explains Cyndee. “You have children with mom and dad’s property, and it all needs to go.”

“It is a big decision to sell mom and dad’s estate or the family farm,” Sam adds. “It can be a very humbling experience.

“I tell people that when we go out and sell an estate, I am selling what someone has worked 70, 80, or 90 years to build. We sell it in a matter of hours. To me, that is humbling.”

Significant investments have been made into the auction side of the business in order to enhance the experience for customers. BKM purchased a computerized clerking and cashiering system to use at sales.

“It speeds up the process to check in and out,” Sam explains. “We are the only auction company based in Wells County to have a computerized system.” Buyers are provided with immediate paper receipts.

BKM also purchased a software system to sell multi-parcels of land. They even have a projector to display the sale’s progress for those in attendance.

Besides family estates, there are other reasons a client might choose a real estate auction over a listing. There are times BKM can get more money for a property through an auction than a listing, especially with unique properties.

Sam says, “We live in a ‘now’ society, in which job relocations, and retirements to a warmer location require a quick sell. An auction will do that. Clients will know the exact date of sale.”

In its first four years of auctions, BKM has sold a good deal of farm land. And, the company enjoys a 100-percent success rate at real estate auction sales! Cyndee reports proudly, “We have not had one unhappy client in the auction process!”

“It all goes back to the people,” credits Sam. “We tell our agents we are a team, and it takes a team to pull off an auction. Our support staff is the best in the business! It takes more people than most realize to complete a successful auction.”

In fact, both Cyndee and Sam insist that BKM’s prosperity is due to its agents.

“I am so proud of the fact that we are ranked ninth, even among offices that have 50 to 100 agents,” says Sam, who purchased BKM Real Estate & Auction from Cyndee earlier this year. “We have

31

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17 agents! It all goes back to the great group of professionals we have here at BKM.” Cyndee agrees. “Producing those kinds of numbers in a smaller market is incredible. I think we have a reputation of being an ethical, hard-working office built upon Christian foundation.

“Our repeat customers are a testimony to our reputation. Our success is not about who owns the company, but the team of people who work at BKM.” BKM Real Estate & Auction is always looking for motivated, eager people, who have a desire to sell real estate. #

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The 2016 Landscapes Travel & Relocation Guide Raelene Hirschy, Advertising Executive

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32

SEARCH CONTEST SPONSORED BY

Berne, Indiana

SPOT THIS MONTH'S OBJECT FOR A CHANCE TO WIN FREE PIZZA! Search this ediiton of Wabash Valley Living and count the number of times the image above appears within the issue (not including this page). Complete and return the entry form below to be entered in this month's prize drawing. Limit one entry per person.

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GRABER INSURANCE:

Times Change, Family is Forever Article and Photos by Jaci Gorrell

F

rom its origins, Graber Insurance has been a family affair. Founded in Berne, Indiana by Eli and Leona Graber in 1946, the agency was born into a society far different than today’s, according to current owner, Marc Graber.

“At that point, insurance was kind of a new concept; not a lot of people had it,” says Marc. The reason?

“We weren’t a litigious society at that time.

Liability wasn’t an issue—it was more protection of your property.”

Marc adds, “Today, liability is probably a bigger issue than protecting your personal property.”

He continues, “Insurance is totally different than when my great-uncle Eli started out.

It’s constantly changing—in how we market, how we sell, even the products that we sell!

Today, we’re selling cyber-risk liability that, five years ago, most people didn’t even think about.”

Just as Graber Insurance has seen a shift in its product through the years, Marc

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

35

experienced a shift of his own when preparing for his career at Taylor University.

He hadn’t intended to pursue insurance.

Marc explains, “I have a degree in psychology. I wanted to go to school and get a master’s degree and possibly go to medical school to be a psychiatrist.”

When his dad experienced major health issues in 1985, Marc answered the call to aid his family. “I came home January of 1986.”

Someone was needed to fill D. L. Schwartz Co. in for his father at the office. had already 188 S.Luckily, US Marc Hwy. 27 been licensed to work in “When I turned Berne,insurance.

IN 46711 18, I got my license.

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The time Marc spent covering for his father was revealing. “I discovered that I liked this business,” he recalls. “I liked the fact that I was working with people and that every day was a different challenge.

“I liked the creativity of how you look at different risks. I also enjoyed being the master of my own time—just being my own boss.”

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When Marc left Taylor that year, he believed the interruption of his education was a temporary situation.

“I just figured that I would help my dad until he figured out what he wanted to do, and that I would eventually go back and continue with what I wanted to do.”

But, after falling in love with a job he had by no means anticipated, Marc had no desire to pursue psychology any further. He finished his bachelor’s degree over the next six months and graduated in 1987. Then, he began his career in insurance.

Marc’s psychology degree, while not the usual course of study for an insurance agent, still equipped him for the work. He explains, “More than anything, I think my degree helped me to assimilate—to look at my situation, my surroundings, and think, ‘How does this fit for Berne, Indiana? Or, ‘How does it fit for Indianapolis?’

“Depending on where I’m working, I can assimilate what the need is, and what the environment is. I think my degree helped me a lot in learning that.”

Graber Insurance has something to offer everyone. “We consider ourselves a full-line insurance agency. If we have a need, and we have enough time, we can go out and find the coverage for someone.

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“Because of that, we offer all type of personal lines and coverages, from home and auto, life, annuities, some health insurance, agriculture, bonds— there’s really nothing we can’t do.”

In fact, Graber Insurance offers a new type of insurance coverage, developed

by Marc, himself. He says it was an idea that came to him as he considered how the world was changing. “I’ve been an idea person, but I’ve never been a person that could do anything with those ideas.

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Marc continues, “I had a friend who told me to keep a journal and start writing some of those ideas down, so I started doing that. I would say that God put some people in my life who had different skills than I did, and as I learned about some of their skills, I started sharing some of my ideas.”

And so, in recent years, one of Marc’s ideas has become a reality. InsuraTech is “a replacement form for (electronic) items if you drop or damage the device, Marc explains. “We market to K-12 schools, universities, and the medical industry.”

According to InsuraTech’s website, the “property-only coverage policy covers any non-cellular, mobile device provided by your school, including iPad, iPad mini, tablet, or laptop.” Coverage is also available for accessories “such as cases, covers and charging adaptors or cords.”

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Allianz Global, which is the largest insurance carrier on the planet. They came after us because we’re not only an insurance policy, but a club-based asset management system, as well.”

The business, still one of the few of its kind, is growing. InsuraTech is “on pace to be in over 30 states by year-end.”

Though InsuraTech has become a primary focus for Marc, he says, “I’m involved in other businesses, too.

What’s interesting is that Graber Insurance has its own personality and is dramatically different from other things I’m involved in. It’s a family business, with other people in it who are like family!”

Indeed, the ex terior of Graber Insurance’s office in Berne offers some indication of the business’ unique personality—a verse from the Bible stretches across the front of the building just above the front door.

Quoting Galatians 6:2, the inscription reads, “Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ.”

Graber Insurance is licensed in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio and has offices in Berne and Decatur. The Berne office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, while the Decatur office operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Both locations are only open by appointment on Saturdays. #

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"Keep doing the same things.

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MACK ARENA:

Bulls and Riders Ready to Go Article and Photos by Jim Kirkwood

PHOTO PROVIDED

C

entrally located about halfway between Bryant, Indiana and Celina, Ohio on Ohio State Route 29, Mack Arena kicks off the winter bull riding season on October 3, 2015. This marks the 21st year that Amy and Joe McQuillan will entertain riders and spectators with the exciting Saturday evening event.

The McQuillans first met at a rodeo. Joe began riding bulls after leaving the military, while Amy was performing what she calls “contract acts”—trick riding and dancing

horses. When asked if she ever attempted bull riding, Amy laughs. “No, I’m not that stupid,” she jokes.

“I just feed ‘em and take care of ‘em. I don’t want any part of riding them.”

In 1994, the McQuillans began constructing Mack Arena. “Our oldest boy had gotten into high school rodeo competition,” Amy explains. “Joe had quit riding by then. At that time, there weren’t a whole lot of places for them to go ride bulls.

October 2015–www.wabashvalleyliving.com

41

“So we built a set of chutes.

And, the first bull riding we had was out front, which is now a parking lot.”

At present, Mack Arena typically hosts crowds of 400 to 500 people. The arena is surrounded on all four sides with bleachers.

Riders compete against one another for significant cash prizes. Two judges evaluate the rider and the bull and award points: half to the bull’s performance and half to the rider’s.

Financing of the awards comes from the entr y fee and some additional funds from the arena. On a typical night, the top rider earns between $800 and $1,000. Smaller cash amounts are awarded to the next four or five riders.

Amy estimates, “We usually average about 80 bull riders a night.” Besides Indiana and Ohio, Mack Arena’s riders also come from New York, Chicago, Michigan, Kentucky, and Tennessee. “We are sanctioned with the Southern Extreme Bull Riding Association. That is the next to the largest bull riding association under the Professional Bull Riders, Inc.” Bull riding is becoming more popular. Larger Professional Bull Riding Association (PBR) events, such as the “Built Ford Tough Series,” are frequently broadcast on CBS and CBS

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According to the PBR, “A qualified ride is 8 seconds. The clock starts when the bull’s shoulder or flank breaks the plane of the gate and stops when the rider’s hand comes out of the rope, the rider touches the ground, or the rider’s free arm touches the bull.”

There are two ropes placed around the bulls’ bodies. The “bull rope” is wrapped around the chest of the bull, just behind the front legs. The loose end of that tight rope is what the rider wraps around one hand as he rides. As soon as the rider is bucked off or dismounts, the rope comes off the bull.

The second rope is the “flank strap,” which goes around the flank of the animal and is tightened just enough so that it won’t fall off. It encourages the natural tendency of the bull to kick.

Amy explains, “It’s like a string around your leg—you want to kick and get it off. It does not hurt them. If it hurt them, the bulls would not want to do what they are doing.

“They enjoy what they are doing. It’s what they are bred to do. If you put them in the chute and open the chute gate, they’ll buck without anybody on them. They are total creatures of habit.”

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Amy cares for the 47 bulls she and Joe own. She feeds them by hand.

“Bulls are bred for their athleticism and how they perform.” She stresses that they are not bred for meanness.

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“Come Saturday night, our bulls are standing at the gates, ready to get on the trailers. They know where they are going, and they love to do it,” Amy says, quite proud of her stock.

Upon arrival at Mack Arena, bulls are put into the corrals, then led into individual holding pens. Finally, they are brought through the “alleyway” and are put into the chutes.

The rider mounts the bull from above, clinches the bull rope, and signals for the chute to be opened. Once there, the rider has 8 seconds to show his skills, to the wild cheering of the crowd.

“We run a section of what we call ‘novice bull riding.’” The McQullans provide smaller, slightly less athletic bulls for newer riders so they can learn the basics of riding.

The indoor bull riding season at Mack Arena continues through May. Competitive riding begins at 7:30 p.m. every Saturday night.

Admission is $8 for adults and $2 for children ages 6 to 12. Children under 6 enter free.

Mack Arena allows carry-in coolers, says Amy, which may contain adult beverages. But, there is also a concession stand.

“Hot dogs sell for just $1, and there are soft drinks for all ages. We try to make this a family-friendly event.” #

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