April 2013 Edition

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PLEASE NOTE: CORRECTION – LAST MONTH’S EDITION

M ADE IN DECATUR

Aqua Blast Corp. visit to the Grand Canyon offers a breath taking view of the awesome power of rushing water. And, for many, the story of Moses and his parting of the Red Sea with God’s incredible power is indelibly etched into memory from childhood.

Richard Yergler, the owner of Aqua Blast, has developed a worldwide niche by putting that same power of water to use in the business he purchased in 1989. The core business began in rural Decatur in early 1962, and the focus was simple - supply a high-quality power washing system to farms in the immediate region of northern Indiana.

The previous owner hired Richard as a member of their sales team in February of 1987. His primary responsibilities were to attend trade shows, where their product would be demonstrated, and to continue the work of building the dealer/ distributor network.

March 2013 p. 35-38

Incorrect information was presented in last month’s edition of Wabash Valley Living regarding the ownership of Aqua Blast Corp. in Decatur, Indiana. The author of the article referred to Richard Yergler as the owner of Aqua Blast Corp.

Article & Photos by Mark Okoniewski

A

Aqua Blast Corp. Article

■ ■ ■ While the primary focus of the Aqua Blast product line was the agricultural community, Richard discovered, very early in his sales career, the boundless possibilities in other industries. He explains, “Up until that time, we sold exclusively east of the Mississippi. The philosophy was soundly based on the ability to service the local farmers and businesses that needed our product.

“However, I saw the need for the development of these types of cleaning systems that could be tailor-made to the specific application. Not every customer’s need fit neatly into our product offering.”

Richard soon began not only developing relationships with companies in the industrial segment, but took on the task of personally designing the systems that were needed. “I made myself available to any customer, anywhere in the

35

In fact, Mr. Yergler is a sales person at the company and has never been an owner.

Aqua Blast is under the ownership of David Tumbleson, and he was the source of all quotes in the article.

We apologize to all at Aqua Blast – particularly, Mr. Tumbleson – for the error. It is always our goal to present correct and true information, and we regret that this article may have misled our readers.

C

ONTENTS APRIL 2013

• COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TARA STEFFEN •

WABASH VALLEY

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Publication

Editor................................... Amy M. Orr

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SCHOOL NOTES – BHMSD

7

APRIL FEATURE: Ossian

11

APRIL FEATURE: FORT RECOVERY

17

APRIL FEATURE: BLUFFTON

Contributors....... Sharyl M. Calhoun

“A” District, “A” High School & an “A+” Principal!

Sylvia Marbach Ashley Olson Tara Steffen

For the Love of Dancing

Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy

Vol. 5, No. 4, April 2013 © Wabash Valley Living, 2013. Published monthly. In print, by the grace of God, since June 2009.

Editorial office: 346 U.S. Hwy. 27 North, Berne IN 46711. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission.

Call (260)849-2187 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to contact the editor or for information about advertising.

Subscription prices in U.S. are $24.99 for 12 mos.; $44.99 for 24 mos. Indiana residents must pay 7% sales tax.

Not Your Usual Foot Race

Scenic Greens and More

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APRIL FEATURE: BRYANT Go-Karting for Families

35

APRIL FEATURE: GENEVA The Art of Preservation

41

APRIL FEATURE: VAN WERT A Place to Meet and Shop

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School Notes BHMSD— “A” District, “A” High School, and an “A+” Principal!

Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District (BHMSD) boasts an “A” District, “A” High School, and an “A+” Principal! For the second year in a row, BHMSD has been recognized as an “A” school district by the Indiana Department of Education. As a part of the district’s distinction, Bluffton High School has earned the status of being an “A” High School in the State of Indiana four years in a row! This is an honor achieved by only four public schools throughout all of Indiana.

Additionally, Bluffton High School Principal, Mr. Steve Baker, has been chosen as the 2012 Indiana High School Principal of the Year!

Mr. Baker began his career at BHMSD in 1985 teaching high school math for eleven years.

Mr. Baker then spent three years as the middle school assistant principal before becoming the high school principal in the fall of 1999. Over his tenure as Bluffton High School Principal, Bluffton High School has achieved the following accomplishments: • IDOE “A” School six out of the last seven years • Federal Annual Yearly Progress six of the last seven years • Indiana Chamber of Commerce “Best Buy” School seven years in a row • Four-Star School in 2010 • Average Graduation Rate of 95% In addition to the school accomplishments, Mr. Baker has also earned personal recognition as an Indiana Association of School Principals District Principal of the Year in 2006 and 2012.

He has also served beyond the capacity of High School Principal as the President of the Indiana Association School of Principals in

2010, Executive Board Member of the Indiana Association School of Principals since 2009, and as the Indiana Association School of Principals Liaison to the Indiana Department of Education since 2012.

Bluffton-Harrison M.S.D. is very proud to have Mr. Steve Baker serve our students at Bluffton High School as they progress toward graduation.

Look Who’s Coming to BHMSD! Throughout the 2012-2013 school year, BlufftonHarrison M.S.D. (BHMSD) has hosted a variety of schools interested in implementing a successful one-to-one technology initiative. As a showcase school district, BHMSD has served visitors from throughout Indiana to share successes regarding technology implementation of a one-to-one initiative.

Through March, the district has welcomed over 30 school districts to explore the successful implementation in place at BHMSD. Administrators, teachers and students have welcomed the educational visitors by sharing testimony of the incredible effects technology has had on the learning process in every building across the district. Classroom teachers have explored new techniques to incorporate technology into instructional strategies to improve student engagement. The daily actions of BHMSD teachers and students have created a culture of exciting innovation, spreading the notion throughout the state that BHMSD exists as an inspiring implementation of a one-to-one initiative.

Bluffton-Harrison M.S.D. is proud to offer an educational environment inspiring to its current students, as well as educators throughout the state.

–Wayne Barker, Superintendant Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District

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Renaissance Ballroom Dance Article & photos by Tara Steffen ■ ■ ■ 7145 N. State Rd 1, Ossian, Indiana – (260) 622-6644 – www.renaissanceballroomdancestudio.com

T

here is just something completely magical about watching a couple gracefully move across the floor in perfect rhythm, each dancer in tune to the other’s movements, executing an array of motions as if floating along on air. As the music plays, there grows a sense of oneness with the other, almost as if the rest of the world is radically erased for a brief moment in time.

grandmother’s formal living room, making up moves as only a child knows how to do.

As a child, who hasn’t dreamed of being Cinderella or Prince Charming, floating along while the rest of the world pauses to watch? I know I used to spend hours dancing around my

For Dave Cowdrey, dancing has been a way of life since 1964. Shortly after he finished his service with the Air Force, he decided that he “needed something to do”.

“Watch me, Grandma!” I would call, and Grandma would come and smile as I “danced” for her. I probably wasn’t very good, but it just felt wonderful doing it! There is just something magical about dancing.

7

A roommate of Dave’s, who was about 6 foot tall, decided to audition for the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Massachusetts.

Dave’s roommate was a lanky gent, without much rhythm, and really quite awkward, but somehow managed to “make the cut.”

In those days, the dance training began at 4:00 and ended at 10:00 daily, 5 days a week, with no pay, for 6 straight months. Dave recalls that there were a total of about 8 people in his class, but by the end of 6 months, he was the only one left who actually completed the training.

Dave thought, if this guy can do it, then so can I! Dave also auditioned and was accepted into the training class. Dave remembers his mother was a beautiful dancer, so he imagines that maybe she might have rubbed off on him a bit.

This left Dave with a rather large ego. Shortly after his training, he was put to the test dancing with the veteran dancer, “Miss Murphy.” Dave thought, How hard could this be?

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Needless to say, Dave’s inflated ego was short-lived as he quickly discovered he still had plenty to learn about dancing.

Dave quickly became good friends with the manager there at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio, and he was soon on the way to his new career.

In the days to follow, Dave learned a lot about attire and how to dress when dancing. Growing up, he had never thought much about how he looked or dressed.

Dave began his teaching career at Fred Astaire Dance Studio, earning his living from dance for the next 20 years.

Training and instructing took Dave to a few different locations like Buffalo, New York for a year, and then Springfield, Massachusetts. In those 20 years, he spent the first 10 teaching, and the next 10 years managing his own Fred Astaire franchise.

Following this 20-year career, Dave supposedly retired. “We never really retire, though,” says Dave.

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Five years into his “retirement,” a lady friend asked him to come and train her staff. Dave had been working as a broker in the real estate business during that time, but was quickly drawn back into teaching dance. In 1989, he came to Ossian to teach, but continued to keep up his broker’s license, going to real estate school in Indianapolis.

Dave decided that he needed some other activity besides being a real estate broker, so he began teaching dance one night a week. This soon led to twice a week, then three times...until he was teaching fulltime. He thought to himself, Well, if I’m going to do this full time, I might as well open my own studio.

In 2000, Dave did some major renovation to what is now Renaissance Ballroom.

Cushioned floors were installed for the dancers’ comfort, and then the floors were finished with pickled maple wood.

This cushioning made dancing for 8 hours much less painful for Dave, as he now spends most of his day on his feet.

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The studio has been going strong ever since, with sometimes up to five instructors teaching. Dave has a modern, state-of-the-art sound system that can play a wide variety of music with the touch of a button.

Six dance styles are taught in group classes, but Dave has the ability to teach over 30 different dances, such as the foxtrot, tango, waltz, rumba, cha cha, quick step, salsa and many others.

Over the years, Dave has seen some changes in those interested in ballroom dancing.

When Dave first started teaching, it was mostly with adults from the ages of 50+ learning to dance. These days, there are more couples than singles, ranging in age anywhere from 20 to 70 being the oldest.

Dancers start as early as 9 or 10. Dave says, “Really, there is no age limit. It’s all fun.”

They also offer theatre art training, and teacher’s training.

Dave offers private classes, group classes, and dance parties at 8 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month. All lessons are 55 minutes long.

Renaissance Ballroom Dance Studio is open from 1 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, all through the year. Dancers are invited to competitions in Merrillville, Indiana, which is considered a medium competition of 4,0006,000 people and is held over 4 days’ time.

Engaged couples usually are given four lessons before their wedding and taught basic waltz steps.

Renaissance also offers gift certificates – one of the best ways to get involved in dancing.

Private lessons are $55, while group lessons are $12 each. There are different levels of difficulty, including beginner, Sociales group, Bronze group (which is a long-range group, and as high as one can go dancing socially), then Silver, and finally, Gold (semi-professional).

Dave recalls students that have been dancing with the studio for over 15 years now. They have come to love dancing and continue their dancing at his studio.

Renaissance also hosts “guest” parties, and if the guest wishes to join in for lessons, they receive one private lesson, one group lesson, and a guest party for $10.

Renaissance decorates the studio for all seasons of the year, with Valentine’s Day being the busiest season. The building itself has a spacious wood floor with mirrors lining two of the walls. Tables are available around the edge for resting or for chatting with friends. WVL

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Refrigerators and freezers must be in working condition, and must be between 10 and 30 cubic feet in size, using inside measurements. Wabash Valley Power Association (WVPA) contracts with JACO Environmental, an appliance recycler, to pick up and recycle refrigerators and freezers that are in working condition. This program is funded by WVPA and is available to residential electric customers in Jay County REMC and United REMC territories on a first-come, firstserved basis until funding is expended. Customers must own the unit(s) being recycled. Limit two units per residential address. A check will be mailed to participants within 4-6 weeks after the appliance collection. Some restrictions apply.

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Fort Recovery’s Mad Run Article by Ashley Olson ■ ■ ■ Ambassador Park, Fort Recovery, Ohio – (419) 586-2201 – www.themadrun.com

E

very spring, there are plenty of 5K races throughout the area that give runners a chance to test their abilities and focus on getting fit. However, none of the local 5K races are anything like the Mad Run 5K in Fort Recovery, Ohio.

Held on May 18th, 2013, in Fort Recovery’s Ambassador Park, the Mad Run will feature a wide range of obstacles, hilly terrain and side activities. The obstacles are what really set this event apart from other races.

Peter Homan, a Mad Run organizer, says, “We wanted something different that brought in a new crowd – 5ks are kind of saturated around

here. The Red Cross board was looking for something to support their organization, as well, and we settled on the Mad Run. “There are around 20 obstacles on the course, and you run into one about every quarter mile. Each obstacle has a name and number, which makes it fun for the committee and participants.

“Mount Everest is coming back this May. The Great Wall is another popular obstacle that’s back. The Mud Monkey (monkey bars) is another one. The Barbed Wire Army Crawl is always interesting. Water obstacles are also popular.”

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One might think that braving obstacles like the Barbed Wire Army Crawl over the course of 5,000 meters isn’t exactly a thrilling prospect. However, the Mad Run drew over 500 participants in its initial year (2012) and already has 667 people signed up for 2013.

With the large number of runners and obstacles involved, this isn’t like a usual 5k run where everybody starts at the same time.

Instead, racers begin in groups of 50. Homan says, “We release 50 people every 20 minutes to keep the event running smoothly.

And, some runners are willing to travel some distance in order to test themselves in Ambassador Park. A significant number of participants come from major cities, like Columbus, Dayton, Fort Wayne and Toledo.

Plus, five different states were represented last year – Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Kansas.

“Nobody really knows if you finish first or last – but, we do a chip timing system so people can see what their time is, if they care.

“The course takes 25 minutes for the fastest people, while some take up to an hour or so.

We start the first group at 9:00 a.m. and then

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Need More Space? gradually move towards filling up the 1 and 2 o’clock hours. Generally, the first people who register like to start at 9 or 10 in the morning.”

As you can imagine, it takes a lot of planning and work to coordinate so many different groups of runners. In fact, it actually required 125 people to prepare and coordinate the Mad Run last year.

Deb Hemmelgarn, who organizes the event along with Homan, says, “There are 12-15 people on the planning committee. We have 125 people there on the day of the event, manning stations and handling registrations. The volunteers also cheer people on and help them get over difficult obstacles.”

The committee spent two years planning the first Mad Run. And, the lengthy planning definitely paid off, since the event raised $9,000 for the Red Cross.

The runners were quite happy, too, with 100% reporting in a survey that they were satisfied. 78% of the people were extremely satisfied. The only notable suggestion for improvement involved adding music throughout the entire course.

In regards to the course, it offers unique topography for the Northwest Ohio area.

Homan explains, “When you get back in the woods, there are a lot more hills than people think. You almost forget that you’re in Mercer County when you’re back there. There’s also a shallow river on the course and a swampy area, too.”

Since Mad Run participants not only have to cover three miles, but also jog over hills and through swamps, you might think that only young people enter this event. However, the truth is that all age groups, from teenagers to 60-year olds, are competing in the Mad Run. Homan says, “Fourteen is the starting age limit, while people in their 60s are also running in the race. We thought that the typical participant would be a young

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man in his 20s, but it’s actually two-thirds women, and the average age is 32. We had 20 people over the age of 50 enter compete last year.”

We will have a Mad Lift. It’s a bench press contest where guys are lifting hundreds and hundreds of pounds. Exile Barbell of Celina is hosting the Mad Lift in Ambassador Park.

What’s nice about the Mad Run is that people can be as competitive or as casual as they want to be. As Hemmelgarn says, “If somebody comes across an obstacle that’s too intimidating, they can go around it. You’re not penalized for skipping obstacles or anything like that.”

“There’s also going to be a Mad Strong event where guys are pushing big tires and lifting heavy stones.

For those who want to be competitive, there’ll be a team competition this year with prizes on the line. The teams can be as large as participants like, but only the top five runners from each squad will count towards the score.

Hemmelgarn adds, “This is the first year that we’re going to recognize outstanding teams. We’re not sure if we’ll offer plaques to the winners or something similar. We’ve seen some pretty interesting teams, such as the Mudders vs. Dodders, and a team where everybody dressed up as a superhero.

“Everybody who enters the race will get a t-shirt with the sponsors listed on the back, a participation medal, and beverages.”

The fun doesn’t end once the race is over, because the committee has organized some other side activities. Homan says, “We’re trying to have something to keep their interest afterward – we want to engage their interest.

“We also have a DJ lined up for the Mad Run. The Coldwater Trash Can Band is going to play, as well. We’ll also be holding a blood drive where people can give blood, if they want.”

With a race, power lifting, and strongman competition, these events are sure to generate some nice revenue for the Red Cross. They should help out the Fort Recovery-area businesses, too, with so many people coming into town.

“People who are driving from an hour-and-ahalf away are bound to get some gas or food,” says Homan. “After all, we have some people who come from pretty far away for this event.

Hopefully, this advertises the community of Fort Recovery for those who might not normally go there.

“Also, the Mad Run will help sponsors that advertise during the event. We hope to promote fitness to the surrounding area through these competitions. Hopefully, people are inspired to start doing some more running or lifting after participating.”

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CARDINAL CONSTRUCTION One other benefit of the Mad Run and its competitions is that they will provide another fun event for local residents.

Homan says, “It’s neat to see something that starts as an idea and becomes such a big event.

“Sometimes, rural communities don’t have as many fun things to do, so there’s value in providing more entertainment.

You don’t always have to go to Columbus or Dayton just to find fun activities.

“It’s good to see everybody pitch in and help. We’ve got some really talented people who help with everything. Just seeing the dedication and support from volunteers is great.”

As Mad Run organizers aim to benefit the Red Cross and the local community, they also need some support, themselves.

And, this support often comes through local businesses that are willing to help out.

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Hemmelgarn points out, “Local businesses let us borrow equipment to run the event. The fire department and EMTs also volunteer their time.

“Luckily, we haven’t really had to use the EMTs for the runners. The only injury we had was a sprained ankle last year.”

Anyone interested in participating in the Mad Run can visit the Mad Run website and register for the race. Organizers are always accepting volunteers, too, since they need help with obstacles, the Mad Lift, and Mad Strong.

If you don’t have the time to volunteer, you can also attend and watch the Mad Run and/or buy something from the concession stand.

Of course, the real fun is definitely found on the Mad Run course, where a variety of challenging and exciting obstacles wait. WVL

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Timber Ridge Golf & Club 250 Article by Tara Steffen ■ ■ ■ 2330 E 250 N, Bluffton, Indiana – (260) 824-2728 – www.thetimberridge.com

W

hat’s your idea of the perfect day?

For many, the best day is one that includes the smell of fresh-cut grass under bright, sunny skies, and the kiss of a cool breeze. There is also no better way to spend such a day than relaxing with a round of 18 holes and a good meal. Timber Ridge is just a little slice of heaven on earth, with their beautifully-landscaped course and a spectacular view from the clubhouse.

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sale in 2009, the two of them partnered to purchase and manage the golf course.

Bruce has many fond memories of this course from his years growing up. He spent an immense amount of time at Timber Ridge, as his family had a membership for many years. This place holds a very special place in Bruce’s memory.

The original course opened in 1925 with a just a small building north of where the clubhouse sits now. The new clubhouse was built in 1999, expanding the versatility of the course by providing a place to host

17

wedding receptions, Christmas parties, bridal showers – virtually any type of gathering needing a large space to host a celebration.

The clubhouse has three rooms for special events, with the largest room seating up to 240 people. They also have an open bar, but alcohol does not have to be included in the party. Prices are given per plate.

Although the golf course was once a private club for members only, Timber Ridge is now open to the public. After crossing the railroad tracks, the entrance of Timber Ridge is nestled on a beautiful hill with white fencing and woodlands surrounding it. A view of the lake is visible from the moment of enter. Timber Ridge also provides cart service and has a full, 18-hole course.

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Used Deals!

REIMSCHISEL FORD 907 N. Main Street Bluffton, Indiana

Hoosier House Diner

619 W. Huntington St. • Montpelier, IN • 765-728-2100

19

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY MEN & WOMEN

P GRAHAM DUNN & BILLY JACOBS WALL HANGINGS

Sat. - Mon. 6am to 3pm / Tues.-Fri. 6am to 8pm Montpelier location closes at 3pm on Tues.

QUILTED HANDBAGS – CANDLES

Upon entering the building, I was greeted quite warmly by Denise, the club’s event coordinator, who called me by name and invited me to my table. The evening’s meal was Italian-themed, with homemade Caesar salad, a delicious spaghetti bake, chicken fettuccini alfredo, warm breadsticks, cake, and coffee or lemonade.

Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner • Mon.-Fri. Only Not valid with any other specials or discounts. Discount cannot be taken on $4.99 specials or steak entrees.

FLOORING – FURNITURE – HOME DECOR – PRIMITIVE DECOR

When I was asked Bruce for an interview, he said he was more than happy to cooperate if I would agree to be his guest at Club 250. So, I graciously accepted and arrived at “70s Night” around 7.

Buy One Meal & 2 Beverages at Regular Price & Receive 2nd Meal of equal or lesser value 50% OFF!

Willshire, OH 419.495.2833 Home Furnishings 318 State Street, Bill & Aleta Weiss, Owners Specializing in...

One of these new ideas is Timber Ridge’s Club 250. Club 250 got its name because it is located on County Road 250 North in Wells County, just on the north side of Bluffton.

50% OFF

W

Bruce has a strong appreciation for the history of this place and is always attempting to preserve the heritage this club has provided for over 85 years. Having said that, he is also looking for ways to introduce new ideas aimed at getting the community involved at the club.

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

SMALL-TOWN FRIENDLY & EXCEPTIONAL PRICES

Timber Ridge also hosts “Go for the Flag,” which includes about 20 teams who raise scholarship money for kids who are going into a farming profession.

Area high school sectionals for boys and girls are both played out here in the fall and spring.

The Bi-County Tournament, which has been held for about 40 years, is also hosted here. This event is also televised on Wells County Voice.

Indiana Pancake House

ILLSHIRE

Timber Ridge is host to corporate golf outings, fund raisers, and school sectionals, to name a few. They currently host a fundraiser for the K-9 Crossroads, raising money for homeless pets. Steve Kelly cancer benefits are also done during the year to help local people with cancer offset the costs of fighting this disease.

Black lights also made a nice atmospheric touch to the night. Later, 70s trivia and finish-the-song-lyric games were played with the audience. Bruce loves to interact with people and makes the night so much fun!

Sunday brunches are one of the many special meals that Timber Ridge provides.

This meal is served from 11:30 to 1:30, overlooking the peaceful beauty of the lake and surrounding woodlands. Denise, the event coordinator, says that she often watches for the wildlife that comes to the lake for water.

Club 250 also other special event nights coming up, including a live Elvis impersonator night in May. Bruce admits that the restaurant business is a tough one, but he possesses the attitude that when a guests walks through the doors, he is more than happy to accommodate and be the best host he can be. Bruce is extremely personable, in my opinion, and genuinely wants people to

have a good time. He is providing a safe place for people to come and socialize, enjoy some good food, and experience great entertainment.

He says, “A club house or a banquet facility is only as good as the people taking care of it.” All the food served at Club 250 is made from scratch and is comparable to what “Grandma” would make.

This customer feedback from Timber Ridge’s website truly reflects the exemplary customer service they provide: Our wedding service finished earlier than expected at Living Faith Church, and because it was one of the hottest days recorded, our guests went straight to the reception hall, putting the staff of Timber Ridge in a difficult position.

They helped us a great deal by being understanding and were very accommodating as they started the reception 30 minutes earlier without complaint. Our experience at Timber Ridge was an amazing one! I’d like to personally thank each individual staff for their involvement in a perfect and very memorable night.

For more information about Timber Ridge golf course and Club 250, you may call Denise or visit Timber Ridge’s website.

Special event listings for 2013 are posted on the website, as well. WVL

GRAND OPENING! May 4, 2013

AT OUR NEW LOCATION

New and Used Bicycles

Please Join Us As We Celebrate Our

Parts - Accessories & Repairs - Maintenance

The service provided by Bruce’s staff was excellent, dirty dishes were promptly removed, and guests felt well-cateredto. There were beautifully-lit tables with candles and flowers, and the walls were lined with pictures straight out of the 70s.

The music played was also from that era, but not so loud to prevent conversation at the table.

CORNER OF US 27 &Chain 300 N Chain Reaction Reaction Chain Reaction bike center Bike Center

Bike Center

143 E. Jackson St. • Monroe, Indiana 143 E. Jackson St. • Monroe, Indiana Now Open at 143 E. Jackson St. Monroe, Indiana (260) 692-1400

260.692.1400

260.692.1400

SUB REQUEST WEDNESDAYS LUNCH & DINNER BUFFET

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

(260)589-3104 classicsplusautosales.com

REGULAR LUNCH & DINNER BUFFET AVAILABLE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! 11a.m. to 1:30p.m. & 5p.m. to 8p.m.

1325 US 27 NORTH, BERNE

(260)589-8891

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

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260-589-3077 260-589-3077 163 Behring St. www.swisscityappliances.com

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BLUFFTON CALENDAR

1st

8th

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Boys & Girls Club (260) 824-6069

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Boys & Girls Club (260) 824-6069

Senior Explorations

SLR Camera Workshop 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

City Gym (260) 824-6069

Toddler Time

Senior Explorations

9

th

Toddler Time

2nd

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

Toddler Time

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

PJ Story Hour

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

3rd

10

th

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

11th

Moms’ Morning Out 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wells County YMCA (260) 565-9622

Who Picked This Book?

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

13

th

4th

Moms’ Morning Out 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wells County YMCA (260) 565-9622

LEGO Club

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

5th

Creative Arts Annual

Benefit Auction & Dinner 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Centre (260) 824-5222

2

Toddler Time

Intro to Painting

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Centre (260) 824-5222

15th

Senior Explorations

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Boys & Girls Club (260) 824-6069

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

City Gym (260) 824-6069

16th

Toddler Time

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

JL Crew

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

Kids’ Club

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

17th

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

18th

Moms’ Morning Out 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wells County YMCA (260) 565-9622

Martial Arts Demo/ Self-Defense 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

20th

Intro to Painting

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Centre (260) 824-5222

Pitch Hit and Run 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Roush Park (260) 824-6069

Karaoke/“Anything Goes” Open Mic Night 7:00 p.m. - ?

Club 250 @ Timber Ridge (260) 824-2728

22nd

Senior Explorations

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Boys & Girls Club (260) 824-6069

23rd

Toddler Time

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

SPECIAL INSERT - BLUFFTON EVENTS CALENDAR

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

1 Mile South & ½ Mile East of Monroe

(Our Best)

RICHARDS 750 LATEX SEMI-GLOSS INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINT Regular $32.95/gal.

Stainless Steel Cookware Mixing Bowls China Dinnerware Variety of Fabrics Large Supply of Quilts

SALE $27.95/gal.

5-Gallon Regular $159.75

SALE $134.75/gal.

Sale ends April 30, 2013

*STOCK UP FOR SPRING SEWING*

See our own Handcrafted Quilts!

Schwartz Mfg. LLC

1261 W 200 S - Berne, IN 46711

Kimberly Hough Independent Distributor 2585 East 900 South Geneva, IN 46740

260-849-0409

Firm, Tighten and Tone in just 45 minutes! https://kimberlyhough.myitworks.com kimberlyhough@myitworks.com

BLUHM & REBER DRAIN SEWER & SEPTIC TANK CLEANING Commercial Industrial Residential (260)565-3469 (260)409-5408 cell 3663 N 600 W, Decatur

D. L. Schwartz Co. 2188 S. US Hwy. 27 Berne, IN 46711 See our assortment of LED battery lamps and headlights.

4 miles north of Berne on Hwy 27 Hours 8:00 –5:00 M-F 8:00 –11:30 Sat. 1-800-955-3064

Farm & Home Supplies ▪ Union forks, shovels & hoes ▪ Repair handles ▪ Stovepipe ▪ Meat Grinders & parts ▪ Horseshoeing supplies ▪ Horse training headstalls ▪ Anvils ▪ Oil lamps ▪ Coleman repair parts ▪ Pressure cookers & parts ▪ Parmak fencers ▪ and much more…..

THE

COUNTRY STORE Family-owned businesses serving our region

D.L. SCHWARTZ CO. 2188 S US Hwy 27, Berne Mon. - Fri. 8:00am to 5:00pm Sat. - 8:00am to 11:30am

David L. Schwartz opened his business in 1935. David’s grandson Marvin D. Schwartz purchased the farrier and hardware portion of the business – D.L. Schwartz Co. – in 2005. Marvin and wife Mary are third generation owners.

D.L. Schwartz Co. sells horseshoes and hardware to local customers. And, in 2009, Marvin and Mary established a retail mail order division. A free catalog, titled “Basic Farm & Home Supply,” offers the Schwartzes’ products to customers across the United States.

Marvin and Mary have been married for 25 years and have 10 children. They reside in Hicksville, Ohio, where they operate another small store.

Countryroad

Candles ~ N ~ Gifts New Gift Ideas:

Wedding Candles Boxed Greeting Cards Doilies Baby Items 23 1641 West 200 South Berne, IN 46711

DECATUR CALENDAR 24

1st

Mom’s Support Group

Christian Fiction

Book Discussion 10:15 a.m. - 11:30 am.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 724-2145

Poetry Coterie

1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 724-2145

Science Rockets

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

9th

Senior Tax Assistance

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

2nd

6:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

Senior Tax Assistance 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

Bicycle Club Ride

Bicycle Club Ride

10

th

Knitting with Vivian

6:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

3rd

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

Southeast Elementary (260) 724-7146

Knitting with Vivian 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

4

Kindergarten Roundup

Weight Watchers

Weigh-In/Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital

6th

Bicycle Club Ride

10:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

8

th

Chamber Luncheon

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

Woodcrest Campus (260) 724-2604

2

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

16th

Old Friends

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

Woodcrest Campus (260) 724-2605

Bicycle Club Ride

6:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

18th

LEGO Club

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

Open House for Businesses

JL Trekkers

LEGO Club

Weigh-In/Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital

All Books Considered

Weigh-In/Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 724-2145

Senior Tax Assistance

Senior Tax Assistance 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

Mom’s Support Group

4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

11

th

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

th

15th

Weight Watchers

20th

Weight Watchers

Bicycle Club Ride

12th

22nd

TAB Meeting

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

13

th

Bicycle Club Ride

10:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

10:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 724-2145

K123 Club

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

23rd

Bicycle Club Ride

6:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

SPECIAL INSERT - DECATUR EVENTS CALENDAR

K123 Club

After-School Special 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

25th

CHRISTNER’S (260)728-2151

Earth Day Craft

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

SMORGASBORD

Weight Watchers

Lunch:

Weigh-In/Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital

Monday thru Friday 11a.m. - 1p.m.

310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN

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

www.pizzakingofdecatur.com

26th

TAB Meeting

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

Adams Public Library (260) 724-2605

27th

Run Over Violence

HOURS:

Dinner:

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

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

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

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

Run/Walk/Family Stroll 5K & Kids Fun Run 9:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 728-9800

15% OFF

TOTAL BILL

W/Coupon on Page 47!

Bicycle Club Ride

10:00 a.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

29th

SAFE & SOUND

Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital (260) 724-2145

30th

Bicycle Club Ride

6:00 p.m.

Adams Memorial Hospital info@decaturblazingsaddles.com

Sponsor a Calendar for Your Community: Call (260)438-1123 or email

raelene@wabashvalleyliving.com

Find out how Affordable

DSC SECURITY SYSTEMS can be!

SEE US FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND!

— we bring technology to you.

1421 Manchester Street, Decatur ½ block west of US 27 North

(260)724-2276 • www.innovativeconceptsav.com

You Can’t Put a Price on Security!

SPECIAL INSERT - DECATUR EVENTS CALENDAR

3

10th

19th

1

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

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

10:00 a.m. - ?

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

st

REGIONAL EVENTS 26

BERNE/GENEVA Girls Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

2nd

Blood Pressure Checks 8:15 a.m.

McDonald’s, Berne (260) 589-2327

Senior Bingo

8:30 a.m.

McDonald’s, Berne (260) 589-2327

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

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

Boys Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

3

rd

Crafts & Conversation 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

6

th

LEGO Club

1030 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

8th

Girls Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

9

th

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

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

Boys Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

4

Crafts & Conversation

12th

Creatures of the Night

Spring Brunch Carry-In

20th

8:30 p.m. - ?

Loblolly Marsh Pavilion (260) 368-7428

Limberlost Birding Tour

13th

LEGO Club

5K Run/Walk & Senior 1-Mile Walk 9:00 a.m. - ?

Swiss Village, Berne (260) 589-3173

Saturday Nite

At the Village 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Swiss Village, Berne (260) 589-3173

15

th

Girls Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Limberlost State Historic Site (260) 368-7428 1030 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

22nd

Girls Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

23rd

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

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

Boys Only! Book Club

16th

4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

8:30 a.m.

McDonald’s (260) 589-2327

24th

Blood Pressure Checks

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

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

Senior Bingo

Noon - 2:00 p.m.

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

Boys Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

17th

Crafts & Conversation 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

Crafts & Conversation

29th

Girls Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

30th

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

Muselman Wellness Pavilion (260) 589-4496

Boys Only! Book Club 4:00 p.m. - ?

Berne Public Library (260) 589-2327

SPECIAL INSERT - DECATUR EVENTS CALENDAR

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

24th

Toddler Time

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

25th

Moms’ Morning Out 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wells County YMCA (260) 565-9622

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

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

27th

Intro to Painting

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Arts Commerce Visitors Centre (260) 824-5222

28th

Parks Spring Bike Tour 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Pickett’s Run Park (260) 824-6069

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29th

Senior Explorations

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wells Co. Boys & Girls Club (260) 824-6069

30

th

Toddler Time

9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.

Wells Co. Library (260) 824-1612

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SPECIAL INSERT - BLUFFTON EVENTS CALENDAR

3

REGIONAL EVENTS 28

JAY COUNTY

10th

1st

7:30 a.m. - ?

Elks Lodge, Dunkirk (260) 726-4481

Story Time

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

2nd

Story Time

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Networking Breakfast

11th

Mother Goose & Me 9:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

12th

LEGO Club

After School Special

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

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

2:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

4

13th

9:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

7:30 p.m. - ?

Arts Place, Portland (260) 726-4809

6

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

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

th

Mother Goose & Me

th

Diabetic Class

8:00 a.m. - ?

Jay County Hospital, Portland (260) 726-1811

8th

Story Time

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Delts Purse Auction

& Dinner 6:00 p.m. - ?

Zion Lutheran Church, Portland (260) 726-4481

9th

Story Time

Songs of a Generation

Coffee with Friends

14th

Museum Open House

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

Jay Co. Historical Museum, Portland (260) 726-4809

18th

Mother Goose & Me 9:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

20th

8th Annual NCGLNAC Academic Conference 9:00 a.m. - ?

John Jay Center, Portland (765) 426-1811

22nd

Story Time

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

23rd

Story Time

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

LEGO Club

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

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Pre-Diabetes Class

5:30 p.m. - ?

Jay County Hospital, Portland (260) 726-1811

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

25th

Story Time

Book Reading Group 7:00 p.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

16th

LEGO Club

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Story Time

LEGO Club

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

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

4

6:30 p.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

15

th

11:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Friends of the Library

Mother Goose & Me 9:15 a.m.

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

30th

LEGO Club

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

Jay Co. Library, Portland (260) 726-7890

Cancer Support Group

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

Jay County Hospital, Portland (260) 726-1811

SPECIAL INSERT - BLUFFTON EVENTS CALENDAR

go-karting families for

Photos by Mark Okoniewski

Make Tracks at Bryant Speedway Article & Photos by Ashley Olson ■ ■ ■ 790 E 600 N Bryant, Indiana – (260) 849-1163 – www.bryantspeedway.com

W

hat started off as a small, private racetrack has become a vibrant piece of family entertainment for Bryant, Indiana, and the surrounding communities.

Greg Mitchey owns the humble yet successful Bryant Speedway and has poured lots of time and hard work into making the tenth-of-a-mile track into what it is today.

In fact, the racetrack is a home away from home for Greg and many of the racers who visit every weekend during racing season.

to the public, and I’ve used the internet to make it grow.”

Mitchey says, “Two-and-a-half years ago, I bought the track from the person who started building it. They built it as more of a private track. I’ve been making it more open

“The Rumble gets a crowd of about 10,000 people and has 300 go-karts. Eldora has 180 go-karts. So, it’s all good exposure for Bryant Speedway.”

In his time as owner, Mitchey has been able to team up with another well known track in the area. “I feel that this year, Bryant Speedway is going to grow a lot, since Eldora Speedway will be promoting us. We were promoted at ‘The Rumble’ in Fort Wayne, and I was getting a lot of calls afterward from people asking for more information.

29

Mitchey has been working incredibly hard to get the public involved at the track, and he’s hoping to make it a family-friendly establishment. He’s also going to be running some big promotions that should draw interest from the surrounding area. “This year, we’ll have Border Wars with Eldora, as well as Point Series races, which will be three weeks in a row and feature a points champion at the end of the season.

years. Our oldest racer was a 72-year old, and it was phenomenal to watch him out on the track. He didn’t finish the entire race, but he went about 70 laps throughout the entire day, which is a lot for somebody who’s 72.

“We have a 50-and-over class, and this is fun because it’s guys that don’t normally race – some haven’t been in a go-kart for

For Mitchey, one of the best parts of owning the track is watching entire families come out and spend the day rooting for their kids. One

“We also have a powder puff girls’ class, which is girls in the 4 to 10-year old range.

With all of the different age groups and things, there’s something for everyone.”

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of the main goals of Bryant Speedway is to offer families something to do on the weekends.

“I want to give the community a place to have fun and enjoy seeing kids and adults racing. It’s truly a full day of enjoyment out here. It’s family fun, and I don’t allow alcohol out here to avoid the drama.

“If I see somebody who might be here just to cause trouble, I’ll ask them to leave.”

Another thing that Mitchey enjoys about having his own track is the preparation leading up to the races.

“Preparation and the action of racing is what I look forward to. There are only 12 karts on the track at a time, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

“If we had more than that it would become a demolition derby. Also, seeing the camaraderie and excitement on the kids’ faces…it’s hard to put into words sometimes.”

Go-kart racing is a sport that Mitchey hopes to will bring more families and communities together. “It’s a lot bigger sport than some people think.

It’s not expensive for a father and son to build a go-kart together. And, you can make money racing, too. I have $500 or $1,000 purse races, but some purses get up to $50,000 to $70,000 in bigger areas.”

Visitors have come from all over come to participate in races at Bryant Speedway, along with some from the neighboring counties. Among the farthest travelers includes a group from Tennessee that comes to Bryant every weekend Mitchey hosts a race.

While drawing racers from some distace is great, Mitchey really hopes to build more interest in the immediate areas. “I feel like outlying communities and people there who know go-karting realize

31

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that there’s a lot more to the sport than some of the local people do.

“Locals don’t get out and see how big the sport is. It’s one of those deals where it’s in your backyard, so it’s kind of forgotten.

“Some of the sponsors have come out here to see what the track is all about, and I think they were surprised to see how popular it actually is. Having 800 people here for one race was pretty good, since we’ve only being up and running for two years.”

This year, the Bryant Speedway season is expected to begin on April 14th, but could start later in the case of a wet spring. Still, preparations for this year are underway already. Plus, there is always promoting to be done for the following year. “It’s a yearround task. Once the season is over, I begin promoting the track. And, during the season, I’m still going to other tracks to talk with other racers. I’ve made a lot of friends by going to different events.

“I don’t send out fliers. I have the website, Facebook, and I have text alerts to let people know of any changes to the schedule. I’ve got about 1,000 people on my text alert list right now, so I feel that the alerts have been successful.”

Bryant Speedway offers concessions at the track, and there are behind-the-scenes workers helping Mitchey make the track a success. Aside from the help his family and friends provide, Mitchey depends on the racers who show up each weekend to participate. “Every racer here is phenomenal.

“Go-kart racing is a different sport now. We use 6-horse motors – not V8s. The small kids run a weed-eater motor. It’s just a lot of fun for them race and for us to watch.

“It’s just amazing to see entire families show up to watch a kid race. You’ll have one kid bring their grandparents on both sides, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, so it’s just rewarding to see that happen – knowing that it’s bringing families together.

“I’d really like to see more people come out just to see what it entails. As a racer myself, I know how expensive it is to race. However, go-karting is the most inexpensive race to get involved in, and people need to see it because it’s something for the whole family.

“Last summer, we had trophy races just for the kids – trophies were 3-feet tall. Nine kids showed up that day, and some of the kids were shorter than trophies. Some of them may not have finished first, but they

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For those concerned about safety, Mitchey and the guys at Bryant Speedway always have an EMT on hand in case of accidents. They also use flags to point out driving infractions and do not tolerate dirty driving.

“We’ve been lucky enough not to have an accident. Last year, someone suffered from heat stroke, due to the weather, but so far, we haven’t had anything major happen on the track.

We take plenty of precautions to avoid injuries.”

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Some of the exciting things to look forward to this year at the Bryant Speedway are the mini monster truck events and mini tractor pulls. “Last year, we had 7 and 10-year olds driving the monster trucks. They use S-10s with big tires, and it’s just like monster trucks. They’re going over cars and stuff.

“It’s something to see – it’s really exciting. We’re also setting up an area for mini lawnmower tractor pulls.”

Mitchey expects growth at Bryant Speedway to continue, though it may be a slow and steady process. “I’m growing as fast as I can, for a single person trying to run a track. At first, we started with 14 go-karts and 30 people, and last year, we had up to 100 go-karts and 800 people.

“It’s just astonishing to see how much it’s grown.”

Stay connected to Bryant Speedway via their Facebook page, their website, and their YouTube channel. Greg Mitchey offers entertainment for the whole family and encourages you to come and visit the track. Adults pay $10 for a pit pass, while children under the age of 10 can enjoy the events for free. WVL

33

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Limberlost State Historic Site Article & Photos by Sylvia Marbach ■ ■ ■ 200 E. 6th Street in Geneva, Indiana – (260) 368-7428 – www.indianamuseum.org/limberlost/

R

andy Lehman, site manager for the Limberlost State Historic Site since August of 1999, informs, “It’s the home of a famous author – Gene Stratton-Porter.

She and her husband built this home, the Limberlost Cabin, in 1895.

Randy says that the Limberlost Conservation Association, or LCA, was a crucial part of converting the home into a state historic site.

They were “a group of concerned citizens who wanted to preserve the Limberlost Cabin.”

“When she moved into this house, she wasn’t a famous author. She hadn’t published anything. But, while she was living here, she started doing that, and before she left here 18 years later, she had published half of the books she ever wrote.”

He adds, “They knew it was special, and they were worried it would be taken over by private persons and, perhaps, not even be here today. That was the motivation for the LCA, and the group still exists.

35

“This site (the Gene Stratton-Porter home), was donated to the State of Indiana in 1946.

That’s when it became a state memorial.

There was some talk at that time about creating a state park in this area, with the Gene Stratton-Porter home being the focal point of that state park.

“DNR, the Department of Natural Resources, did study that possibility, but they decided

not to do it. The only thing that became connected with the state at the time was the home.”

Randy continues, “Because of Gene StrattonPorter’s fame, the State of Indiana decided to save not only this home, but also the one in Rome City, Indiana. They’re both state historic sites.”

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In the Geneva site, Randy advises, “The main service we provide for the public is the tour of the Limberlost Cabin. We also do a lot of programs and events here that are not necessarily related to Gene Stratton-Porter.

“Our most popular event has nothing to do with Gene – that’s our monthly bluegrass jamboree. And, our next most popular event is our Easter egg hunt. While not connected directly to Gene Stratton-Porter, they do allow us to connect with the public.”

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10-5 Mon. thru Sat. The home has become a connection tool for a wider audience. “We do offer a lot of services though that people don’t think about,” Randy adds.

“We do a lot of outreach programs in schools and libraries, spreading the word about Mrs. Porter and the local wetland restoration projects.”

With the addition of trails, a pavilion, and public restrooms at the nearby wetlands preserve, Randy feels the Limberlost site has become “more of a natural history site than before.”

Before, it was just about the history of Gene Stratton-Porter, but now it’s much more diverse, which attracts a different kind of audience.

“We really have Ken Brunswick to thank for that,” he credits. “If it hadn’t been for Ken, it wouldn’t have happened. His dedication to that really helped.

“Ken is a regional ecologist with the local DNR division, and he’s in charge of all the wetland restoration that’s going on around here. He started it, and he’s still in charge of it.”

Randy says his own job as site manager is generally an administrative position.

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Celebrating 30 Years of Service in 2013!

“I’m in charge of making sure the site runs smoothly – that bills are paid, buildings and visitors are taken care of, tours are on schedule – all kinds of things.”

all the state historic sites in Indiana are wellmaintained. I think, generally speaking, we do a nice job here of maintaining the historic home.”

The site employs several others, as well.

“Curt Burnette, our program specialist, arranges all of the programs here and makes sure they go off without a hitch.

Randy has faced a few challenging situations in his 14 years at the site. “They considered not having any state employees here, but running it with volunteers. They were having some budget issues.”

“He also is a naturalist. He has background in zoology. He can share his knowledge of those subjects with our visitors, if they’re interested. When we do nature-related programs or events, Curt is behind that.”

Other part-time or seasonal positions include tour guides, a master gardener, and maintenance, as well as another part-time naturalist.

Randy says quite a bit of work goes into effectively maintaining and restoring the Limberlost Cabin. “As you can imagine, a house built in 1895 needs a lot of attention.

“I work closely with the Indiana State Museum. They have a crew located in Madison that is responsible for making sure

Fortunately, says Randy, “The communities around here really stepped up, and there were a lot of public meetings where the public said this was a bad idea. So the state kept me here with a much-reduced staff. Over time, we’ve built our staff back up again.”

In fact, earlier this year, the Limberlost site added a new forty-thousand square foot visitor’s center. “There was some state money put into this facility,” says Randy, “but two-thirds of it was donations from local people and businesses.

“The LCA was very important for us in getting this new visitor’s center created.

They contributed quite a donation to help us do this.” This group and its members were and still are an intricate part of the

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“This was a pretty expensive facility – over three quarters of a million dollars.

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Randy continues, “We worked so hard to get this visitor’s center, I haven’t really been able to take a breath and think about the future. Probably, one of my goals would be to increase the number of visitors we get here. On average, we get about 5,000 visitors a year, which is not a bad number, but I hope that as time goes by, we can increase that quite a bit.

“My other major goal in the next few years is to make the Limberlost Cabin look even more like it did when Gene was here from 1895 to 1913.”

Speaking of his role at the Limberlost site, Randy reveals, “My favorite part is knowing that what I do here is not going to end. We’re a state historic site, so there’s always going to be somebody in my position.

“All the work that I’ve done here – keeping this place going, making it more popular, expanding what we’re doing – I know that it’s not just going to stop. That’s a good feeling, when you have a job, and you know that what you are passionate about is going to be carried on by somebody else, even after you’ve retired.

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Market on Main in Van Wert Article by Ashley Olson ■ ■ ■ Starting May 31st – Downtown Van Wert, Ohio – (419) 238-4002 – vic@watchtv.net

S

pring is here, which means warmer weather, flowers blooming, and the Market on Main returning to Van Wert, Ohio. Market on Main started a year ago in front of the Van Wert Courthouse. And, since its inception on August 2nd, 2012, this weekly event has already grown quite a bit.

Vickie Schulte has played a large part in making the Market on Main what it is today. She approached the Main Street Committee about her idea last year and was ecstatic when they gave her the ‘ok’ to begin planning the weekly event.

It hasn’t been easy, and there have been times when she has second-guessed herself; but, Vickie has been able to conquer the hurdles standing in her way.

She envisioned a place where local craftsmen could bring their products to sell, have good times with friends, and bring life back to Van Wert’s downtown. And so far, this vision has become reality. Market on Main Street offers the Van Wert area a place to get together for light entertainment and socializing.

41

Vickie says, “We’ll have anything they (vendors) can bake, make or create. We have people who are fundraiser representatives who can talk about the different causes that they represent. We also have entertainment, like musicians, as well as artists who paint while they are there.”

“I gave up my full-time job at the hospital and began the adventure of starting my own business. I’ve been doing markets all over the area and figured that we needed a Europeanstyle market here in Van Wert.”

Market on Main is right up Vickie’s alley because she’s been doing craft shows and festivals for many years. In fact, she recently quit her job to become a full-time jewelrymaker and soon-to-be shop owner in the historical district of Van Wert, Ohio.

After being a part of so many craft shows throughout the years, she’d managed to become friends with a lot of fellow crafters and direct sales representatives. Thus, Schulte had a fairly large list of people to call on to be a part of Market on Main.

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NEED LEGAL ADVICE? “I had done craft shows and things for a long time, and I had this list in my head.

I spent weeks calling and contacting vendors to see if they wanted to put their goods out on the Market.”

In just a few weeks leading up to the first market, Schulte was able to round up 20 vendors and was excited to see the Market on Main become an instant success. The weekly event managed to draw a lot of interested visitors in addition to the various vendors.

Last year, Market on Main was held every Thursday morning, but there will be some big changes to the day and time this year. In 2013, the market will run every Friday morning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Schulte is excited to announce that Market on Main is also hosting an event called First Fridays – thus, adding another facet to this year’s market. First Fridays start on July 5th and will be held on the first Friday of every month. It’s a social event that offers more market vendors and entertainment from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The event coincides with Arts in the Park, which is held at the Fountain Park in Van Wert. First Fridays entertainment will include live music and other surprises that are still in the works. It’s a family-fun affair that’s sure to offer something interesting for everyone.

Schulte is thankful for the outpouring of support from the Van Wert community, as well as those from the surrounding communities who’ve been coming to shop at the Market on Main. “It’s already started working to bring different people to our downtown as a destination.

“We’ve got people coming into town just because they know the market is there, and it’s great to see that. There are people coming from across the state line because they want the produce we are offering. People passing through during big by-way garage sales are also finding their way downtown.”

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10-5 Monday thru Friday 10-3 Saturday

It’s worth mentioning that people aren’t just coming from across the Indiana state line, but from various parts of the world, as well.

Schulte says, “We’ve had people from all over stop by – like from Canada, the Netherlands, Georgia and the East Coast. Of course, they’re usually visiting family or friends, but it’s still neat to see that.”

One of the truly stand-out moments for Vickie was dealing with the weather during the Market on Main events. What may have been a terrible experience for some became one of her favorite memories. “Everyone involved with Market on Main had to become very ingenious to the weather. Some vendors came that hadn’t done an outdoor market on the street before – they were used to park events or going to the fairgrounds where there is shelter.

“The weather memories were my favorite because we fought Mother Nature all year long. People would help with tents when wind blew, and we became pretty close going through it together.”

Schulte is also a committee member on Relay for Life and is looking forward to bringing a taste of Market on Main with her. “I’m very much looking forward to Relay for Life this year – we’re going to have a big market there.

This year, we’re going to do an overnight market – we’re going to walk all night. We’ll

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“I’m also looking forward to the Peony Festival and the vendors that will be there this year.” The Relay for Life will be held on May 3rd at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, and the Peony Festival is held at Fountain Park on June 7th, 8th and 9th.

Van Wert’s Market on Main has given Vickie the courage to do even more for the community, and she is proud to be a part of the growing historical downtown area. “It gives me a sense of pride to know that people with little micro businesses have a place to go to meet new people and sell their goods. It’s great to be a part of it all.”

The reason why Vickie has been so involved in bringing business to her hometown is because she still remembers the Van Wert she saw as a kid. “I remember when you went downtown for everything – you would basically buy everything downtown. But, the world had changed, and we’re going further away from the heart of town, and I feel like we need to bring the shops back to the downtown area.

“I’m hoping our city can become more, and have more shops – like some other small towns, such as Waynesville, Ohio (near Dayton) or others similar to it.”

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Schulte’s “One-of-a-Kind Creations” will be on display and for sale in late May, along with opportunities for other local craftsmen to rent a space in her store.

She says, “For the last six months, my family and I have been working on our own business. We purchased a historical building on South Washington Street so micro-business people can come in and have a store front.

“We remodeled the building and plan on opening on May 24th. It will have a unique look, and there will be vignettes and displays like you would see in a home setting.”

Vickie’s favorite part of being involved in Market on Main has been getting to know so many unique and talented individuals. She expresses her appreciation, saying, “I love meeting new people, and these people become your friends pretty quickly.

“The first group of market vendors and I have become a close-knit group.

It’s become a big deal, and even their families have gotten involved. I hope we can continue to grow together and continue having success.”

For more information about Market on Main, and to keep up to date on all of their events, like them on Facebook.

The fun doesn’t start until May 31st, but during the winter and early spring, there have been surprise Pop-Up Shows in local businesses around Van Wert’s downtown. These Pop-Up Shows encourage everyone to get out of the house and socialize. WVL

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