Liv覺ng W
ABASH VALLE
Y
JULY 2013
FREE
LIFE IN ADAMS, JAY & WELLS COUNTY & NEIGHBORING OHIO COMMUNITIES
AREA MAP included
traditional
mom-and-pop shops
Family-Owned & Operated Amish Businesses
Did You Know?
www.adamshospital.com
We Have Over Fifty Services and Are Still Growing! In recent years, Adams Memorial Hospital has invested in several new specialties which provide our community with up-to-date healthcare services. We constantly strive to exceed the expectations of residents in our area with friendly service and unsurpassed medical advice and healing. From our talented new Surgical Teams to Direct Access Lab Testing to the Coumadin Clinic and beyond, Adams Memorial Hospital is offering services we only dreamed about a few short years ago. Every day we have people come through our doors and walk away with a smile on their face. Our employees know their patients and take pride in the services they provide to you! Rediscover Adams Memorial Hospital and our hometown team of professionals! Direct Access Testing at AMH Laboratory - No Physician Referral Needed
Exceptional Care. Close to You!
C
BIG
COUPON SAVINGS Pages 60-63
ONTENTS JULY 2013
• COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TARA STEFFEN •
WABASH VALLEY
LIVING
4
SCHOOL NOTES – South Adams Schools
7
FEATURE ARTICLE
12
Mom-and-Pop Shop MAP
17
FEATURE ARTICLE
23
FEATURE ARTICLE
37
FEATURE ARTICLE
41
FEATURE ARTICLE
47
FEATURE ARTICLE
53
FEATURE ARTICLE
58
FIND FRIEDRICH
60
BIG COUPON SAVINGS
www.wabashvalleyliving.com
A
Publication
Editor................................... Amy M. Orr Contributors....... Sharyl M. Calhoun
Technology
The Eicher’s D & H Workshop
Sylvia Marbach Ashley Olson Tara Steffen Advertising.............. Raelene Hirschy Sharon Roberts
Vol. 5, No. 7, July 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.
Rebecca Schwartz’s Fabric Store-N-More
The Hilty’s Merlin’s Martin Houses
The Graber’s Country Lane Bakery
The Schwartz’s Willow Creek Store
The Hilty’s E & R Seed, LLC
The Schwartz’s Outdoor Cooking Supplies
Monthly Contest
Wabash Valley Living is printed by:
169 S. Jefferson Street, Berne, IN 46711 (877)589-2145 • www.EPGraphics.com
Special Offers & Discounts from Advertisers
School Notes South Adams Schools— TECHNOLOGY
Technology is everywhere. Whether we notice it or not, the products of technological advances are everywhere. Obviously, it is in the cell phone that we carry with us; and, it is in our computers, TVs, and game systems. It is also in our cars, our heating and cooling units, and our vacuum cleaners. Not so obviously, the advances of technology are in our flashlights, household paints, laundry detergents, and garden seeds. Whether at work or play, technology permeates our lives. Technology is also evident at school. Over the years, copy machines that can copy on both sides of the paper, collate the papers, and staple them have replaced the handcranked mimeograph machines. (Some of us are old enough to remember the smell of fresh mimeograph ink on worksheets.) Digital projectors and document cameras have replaced reel-to-reel movie projectors and overhead projectors. Likewise, laptops and tablets are replacing textbooks at some schools. At South Adams, technology is evident. The high school will once again issue a Dell laptop to each high school student, and the middle school has enough laptops that every student
could use one at the same time. New for the 2013-2014 school year, every elementary school student will have 1:1 access to an iPad while at school. South Adams believes that the implementation of technology enhances learning and is a valuable and necessary tool for students to succeed in today’s world. While we do not expect that technology will completely replace textbooks, we do acknowledge that more information is in a digital format rather than printed. Therefore, these technology tools will allow students and staff to access more content information. In addition, we expect the school’s technology will boost student engagement. Simply stated, our goal is to teach our students to become better readers, writers, and mathematicians. Technology is like a magnet to students. It attracts them. The school’s plan is to use technology as a means to get the students to read more, write more, and solve more math problems. Consequently, the student will learn more. Technology is everywhere. At South Adams Schools, we are making strategic decisions about how technology directly affects our students in order to enhance their learning and to help them succeed in today’s world. –Scott Litwiller, Superintendent South Adams Schools
4
Caring for the Needs aring for the Needs
of all Generations of all Generations Family Hospice Family Hospice
Family Home Care Family Home Care Family Family Palliative Care Palliative Care Family Infusion Therapy Family Infusion Therapy
Family Care Management Family Care Management Family Grief Support Family Grief Support Children’s Wings of Hope Children’s Services Wings of Hope Services
Call us at 1-800-355-2817 Call us at 1-800-355-2817 ...We want to...We help!want to help!
Visit Our New Store at 222 N. 2nd Street Downtown Decatur! ~ Look for us under the balcony ~
VINTAGE DECOR & FURNITURE DECORATING CONSULTANTS WEBSTERS CHALK PAINT POWDER
TATTERED TREASURES 222 N. 2nd Street, Decatur IN 260.301.9100
www.thetatteredtreasures.blogspot.com Like us on Facebook to see our latest projects!
custom-made
CABINETS FURNITURE and
Trim, Vanities, Fireplace Mantels, Millwork — Anything Wood
You name it, and we’ll do it! Tailored to fit your needs.
Newly-designed dining table (extends to 96”) and chairs.
STAINED FINISHES GLAZES & PAINTS CRACKLE FINISH DISTRESSING WHITEWASHING HIGH/MED/LOW LUSTRE
Our aim is to build fine, sturdy furniture and cabinets with good quality. We also restore old furniture and resurface cabinets. We’re a home business, done the old-fashioned way, with 14 years of experience — large enough to serve you and small enough to need you!
Come and see us or write to us. Please include a phone number so we may contact you.
D & H WORKSHOP
1343 E 1000 S, GENEVA IN
Berne Swiss Stitchers’
SWISS DAYS
QUILT You Could WIN IT!
Purchase Your Tickets at Our Store – $1 each or 6 for $5! Like Us on Facebook!
ENGINE HOUSE QUILT SHOP 164 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana
(260)589-3060
www.enginehousequiltshop.com 10-5 Monday thru Friday / 10-3 Saturday
Henry & Josephine Eicher’s
D&H Workshop A
1343 E 1000 S • Geneva, Indiana
Article & photos by Tara Steffen
s I came upon the small, neatly designed sign of D & H Workshop and turned into the gravel driveway, I was greeted by small children and chickens. The shop of Henry D. and Josephine Eicher stands in the middle of a modest country farm. This is where the quality work of D & H Workshop begins. Henry began to show me some of the products that are made at the shop. We started with a set of
kitchen chairs that were near completion. Every piece in these chairs is handmade and designed by Henry himself. I got to see some of the drafted plans that he uses to build such beautiful furniture. Henry designs all of his furniture and cabinets. And, Henry uses only high-quality wood to craft his furniture. His wood selection includes maple, oak, walnut, cherry, and cedar. Henry
7
West Park
VILLAS
Upscale Apartment Living with Cathedral Ceilings, Central Heat and Air, All Electric, Loaded Kitchens!
Washer/Dryer Hookups 2 Bedrooms Attached Garages Private Entrances 24-Hour Maintenance Located in Van Wert off Woodland Avenue near Smiley Park.
Call (260)724-4616 or (800)589-4332 Today to Lease your New Apartment Home! www.westparkvillas.com
Relax — There’s a Good Neighbor close to you.
AUTO • HOME • LIFE • HEALTH
INSURANCE Steve Rich, Agent
230 S. 2nd Street, Decatur IN
adds a solid clear coat after the wood is beautifully stained, leaving the customer with a sturdy, solid, gorgeous product. Henry can apply a variety of finishes for a worn or vintage look, as well. He keeps a large supply of lumber on hand. Some of the wood comes from Michigan, and some is purchased from Ohio lumber companies. Since the Eichers have no electricity, I was very curious about how Henry gets the power to run all his machinery. He took me to the middle of the barn, where two giant work horses were hitched to a mill. The horses and mill generate the power needed to operate tools in the shop. Henry demonstrated how he planes the boards of lumber, a process used to smooth out the edges and straighten the board. While in the saw room, he uttered a loud “Giddy-up,” and the horses began walking. This motion powered everything in the shop.
260.728.2933
8
Dr. Blake Taylor RPh. DMD
Dr. Molly Meyer Sigler DDS
Accepting New Clients Once the board was smooth and completed, Henry stopped the horses, and the power was gone. Henry uses several power tools in the shop – from a planer to a table saw to a sander. We passed a large pallet of wood stakes with initials on them, and I asked Henry about them. He explained that he makes graveyard stakes for the Amish. Since they don’t use gravestones, they mark burial plots with wooden stakes bearing the initials of the departed loved one. After awhile, these weather and need to be replaced. Henry was working on a table and chair set for a customer’s dining room the day of our interview. He showed me how each piece was constructed and then carefully placed together, almost like a puzzle. Each piece fit tightly and precisely, and every detail perfect in shape and form. When finished, this will be a six-foot dining table with leaves to expand the tabletop.
234 N. 1st Street Decatur (260)724-7032 Toll Free (888)937-7032 1429 N. Baker Place Bluffton (260)824-4614 Toll Free (866)500-9400
www.taylordental.net
ATHERING HOU G SE THE
8AM - 5PM Mon. thru Sat. Closed Sunday
9
105 W. Main Street, Berne, IN
260.589.8466
Swiss Heritage Village and Museum
Berne, Indiana (260)589-8007 • www.swissheritage.org
SWISS DAYS EVENTS – July 26 & 27 Special Admission $2 (2 & under free) Friday & Saturday – Antique Engines • Cheese-
Making • Spinning Demonstrations • Village Tours
Saturday Only – Antique Car Show (all day)
Weiner Dog Races (10 a.m.) • Variety Dog Show (following races)
Group Tours Available June - October Reservations preferred for groups of ten or more. Call (260) 589-8007.
Daily Guided Tours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays & Holidays
SAVE $2 OFF ADMISSION WITH COUPON ON PAGE 47!
This table also had a special feature known as a “fixed base,” meaning there were cabinets around the bottom of the table for extra storage. A fixed base allows the tabletop to expand while leaving the base unchanged. The cabinets were covered by beautifully crafted doors. Again, all of the wood used is hardwood, quality solid panels with extra accents to add aesthetic appeal. In most instances, Henry takes custom orders. Once in awhile, he makes extra things “just to sell.” I asked him if he ever keeps anything for his own home. Smiling, he answered, “ A few things.” Henry’s favorite custom pieces included a fireplace mantel fashioned out of old barn beams and something called a three-in-one bed. This bed serves first as a crib, then converts into a toddler bed and, later, to a full-size bed with head and foot boards. Henry has also refinished antiques for people. He told me about an old record player stand that was painted blue. The customer’s wife had started the refinishing work but gave up. Henry said this was a difficult project because of intricate scrolling on the front, but when it was done, the customer was very pleased. At one time, Henry lived closer to Indianapolis and worked for a local contractor, making cabinets and vanities for the new homes being built there. D & H still serves customers as far away as Indianapolis. Henry works full-time in the shop but also farms a few acres of ground. Henry and Josephine have eight children, none whom are quite old enough to help out in the mill, yet. But, Henry’s brother Andy helps out.
www.myjestore.com/kimberlyhough
Kimberly Hough
Independent Consultant / Distributor 2585 East 900 South, Geneva, IN 46740
260-849-0409
The shop has been in operation for about 14 years. The turnaround time for custom order is about 1-2 months, depending on the size of the project, of course. Since he has no phone, people either contact Henry by mail or by stopping by to see him. He says his shop is becoming cramped with all the orders he’s gotten, and he may have to expand in the future. WVL
FIRM, TIGHTEN & TONE in just 45 minutes!
https://kimberlyhough.myitworks.com
10
BLUE CREEK SALES
Martin Schwartz
1510 S. 200 W. Monroe, Indiana 46772
CUSTOM BUILT VINYL WINDOWS
THERMA-TRU® ENTRY DOORS Fiberglass Door with Composite Jamb
New Construction – In Stock
Steel Door with Wood Jamb
Replacement – By Order
CUSTOM PLASTIC PRODUCTS Like Twin Tubs FARRIER CARTS – NO SPILL HORSE FEEDERS TRIM COIL (Black/White) – CORN HOLE GAMES
ON DISPLAY NOW TM
Don’t miss the 20 new sculptures now on display on 2nd and Monroe Streets in downtown Decatur! Bring your family and vote for the People’s Choice Award before September 30, 2013. All sculptures will be on display through May 2014. Questions? Call the Chamber at 260.724.2604 Free parking and handicap accessible TM
www.
decatursculpturetour.com
SHOP US BEFORE YOU BUY... WE WILL HAPPILY HELP YOU COORDINATE YOUR HOME
Custom Flooring - Window Treatments Wallpaper (YES, it’s coming back!!) Home Accessories - Room Coordinating
113 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana 260.589.3671
ver Your
orld!
Yager Interiors, Inc.
Co
W
Helen Woodard’s
Let U s
We Give You Customer Service Above & Beyond!
OPEN
Traditional
Mom-n-Pop Shops
SR 124
400 E
300 E
200 E
100 E
US HWY 27
100 W
200 W
300 W
400 W
500 W
N
SR 124 17
SR 124 100 S
13
000 Rd
24 2 14
10 5 19 18 8 12 16 7 15 1 11 20
200 S 300 S
SR 6 11
400 S 23
4
500 S
22 3 9
SR 218
SR 218 21
000 Rd
US HWY 27
W SR 218
700 S 800 S 900 S 1000 S
6
SR 116 1100 S
S BERNE
12
GENEVA
MONROE
E
1 – Backyard
Family Furniture
Corner of US 27 & 300 S, Berne, IN 46711 Mon., Wed.-Fri. 9:30-6; Sat. 9-3; Tue. by Appt.
Custom-built mini barns with warranty, quality playsets, no-maintenance polywood furniture and more. Ad on p. xx. 2 – Blue
Creek Sales
1510 S 200 W, Monroe, IN 46772 Monday thru Saturday
Therm-O-Loc custom vinyl windows, Therma-Tru® entry doors, Wingards Custom Plastics, trim coil & more. Ad on p.xx. 3 – Cardinal
6–D
& H Workshop
1343 E 1000 S, Geneva, IN 46740 Stop by or contact by mail
Custom-built furniture and cabinets, trim, millwork and more in a variety of traditional and modern finishes. Ad on p.xx.
D. L. Schwartz Co. 2188 S. US Hwy. 27 Berne, IN 46711 See our assortment of LED battery lamps and headlights.
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…..
Construction
322 W 400 S, Berne, IN 46711
By Appointment – Call (419) 953-3511
Residential roofing, siding, windows, decks, drywall work and interior/exterior painting. Also, church steeples and barn roofs. Ad on p.xx.
COUNTRYL ANE Bakery & Gifts
4224 S 450 W, Berne, Indiana
Pies \ Cinnamon Rolls Homemade Bread \ Fried Pies Cookies \ Noodles Angel Food Cakes Open Wed-Fri 9 to 5 / Sat 9 to 3
ountryroad C ¤ ¤ ¤¤ Candles * ¤¤¤¤ * Gifts *
4
5
4 miles north of Berne on Hwy 27 Hours 8:00 –5:00 M-F 8:00 –11:30 Sat. 1-800-955-3064
8–E
7
& R Seed LLC
1356 E 200 S, Monroe, IN 46772 Open Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Over 1,200 varieties of vegetable seeds, flower seeds, berry plants & fruit trees, greenhouses & accessories. Ad on p. xx. 9 – Fabric
Store-N-More
1327 US Hwy N, Berne, IN 46711
Mon., Tue., Thu. 9 a.m.-5; Fri. 9-6; Sat. 8:30-1
Offering a wide variety of fabrics, as well as sewing notions, quilts and gift items. Next to East of Chicago Pizza. Ad on p.xx.
HILTY’S FURNITURE
~N ~
Great Gift Ideas: Wedding Candles Boxed Greeting Cards Doilies Baby Items 1641 West 200 South Berne, IN 46711
NEW & USED Bedroom Suites - Mattress Sets - Glider Rockers - Chairs - Tables - Poly Lawn Furniture - Dressers - Charcoal (40# bag) Open Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1909 S 100 E Monroe, Indiana
10
13 13
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Call our office at (260) 849-2187. We might be able to help you locate a business!
11
Large Assortment of Housewares Hitzer Heating Products Wicks for ANY Heater!
Celtic Foam PVC Removable Fronts Deep Compartments - Winch & Cable System
Joe’s
Lighting
2898 S 000 Road Monroe, Indiana
PRODUCTS
*************************** ANNUALS - PERENNIALS SHRUBS - HERBS - VEGETABLES HANGING BASKETS - CONTAINERS
See Our Ad Huge Selection of MUMS..in the Fall! on Page
Starling-Resistant Entrances Available! MERLIN C. HILTY
1757 S 200 W MONROE, IN
15 – Outdoor
14
Cooking Supplies
2194 US Hwy 27, Berne, IN 46711
Open Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5; Sat. 7:30-11:30
Cast iron kettles, Dutch ovens, skillets, ceramic grills, camp grills, tripods & accessories. Next to Schwartz Blacksmith. Ad on p.xx.
Spring Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 to 5, Sat. 8 to Noon
M& M Flowers Lighting Joe’s
2898 S 000 Road Monroe, Indiana
2099 S 100 E PRODUCTS Monroe, Indiana 12
***************************
M.C. HILTY CONSTRUCTION
BULK FOODS & SPICES SELECTION OF CHEESES & COLD MEATS BAKEWARE & FOOD PREP CANNING SUPPLIES
R & E SALES
13
NEW CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS BASEMENTS • CONCRETE 2575 W 250 S, Berne (260)768-8154 Mervin C. Hilty - In Business Since 1991
14
See Our Ad on Page .. M.C. HILTY
825 E 200 S Monroe, IN
17 – Sam’s
16
Engine Clinic
1601 W. SR 124, Monroe, IN 46772
Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 7:30 a.m.-Noon
Offering sales and service on a variety of outdoor power equipment. Honda Power Equipment Master Service Tech. Ad on p.xx.
18 – Schwartz
Blacksmith
2194 US Hwy 27, Berne, IN 46711
Open Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5; Sat. 7:30-11:30
Offering custom fabrication, along with a full line of steel & welding supplies, pulleys, bearings, etc. Ad on p.xx.
19
22 – Swiss Woodworking Stamps & Sales
371 W 500 S, Berne, IN (3/4 mi. east of Black Bear Inn) Mon. Tues. Weds. Fri. 8:30-5; Sat. 8:30 - 3:30
We carry stamping & scrapbooking supplies, as well as wooden home accessories, doll furniture & toys. VM 849-9669
Schwartz Mfg.
WILLOW CREEK W 400 S Berne, Indiana STORE 5160
1261 W 200 S Berne, IN 46711
INTERIOR-EXTERIOR PAINTS KEROSENE STOVES KITCHEN RANGES ICE/ROLLER SKATES SPORTING GOODS
20
Schwartz Shoe Store
fresh peaches & blueberries in july (Call for availability) fresh produce from local gardens all your canning supplies! 23
WILMEN’S COUNTRY STORE 1 Mile South & ½ Mile East of Monroe
for Men Women &
21 – Schwartz
MEAT – CHEESE BULK FOODS – SPICES
421 E 100 S, Monroe, Indiana
555 E 300 S, Monroe IN
1½ miles east of US 27 on County Road 300 South.
(260)334-5080
Children
Stainless Steel Cookware
24
Mixing Bowls China Dinnerware Variety of Fabrics Large Supply of Quilts *STOCK UP FOR YOUR SEWING*
Weaving
6807 S 300 E, Berne, IN Monday thru Saturday
Hand-woven rugs – no rubber backs. Machine washable. Many colors. Shag, fleece and rag rugs available.
Please let these advertisers know you saw their ad in Wabash Valley Living!
15
Discover the wisdom of nature. • Vitamins and Herbs • Natural and Gourmet Foods • Traditional Chinese Medicines • Homeopathic Remedies • Bulk Culinary Spices • Books and Literature
• Gourmet Coffees / Herbal Teas • Natural Body and Skin Care • Refrigerated / Frozen Foods • Grains, Pastas, Cereals, Flours • Children’s Herbals and Vitamins • Daily Discounts
You can rely on our knowledgeable staff for personalized, professional service.
We Appreciate Our Loyal Customers!!!! Ask about our “E T Healthy Rewards Card”
Gift Certificates
Always Appreciated!
260.589.3675 H Hwy 27 North, Berne H Since 1982 H 1.800.292.2521 Our selection, prices and service are worth the drive! Hours: Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm www.earthentreasuresonline.com
H
Like us on Facebook!
SAM’S ENGINE CLINIC HONDA POWER EQUIPMENT SALES & SERVICE
1601 W. State Road 124 (3/4 Mile West of Monroe)
CGT-400 TRIMMER Intelligent electronic control Instant trigger start Soft-grip handle for all day comfort and control Light weight, and perfectly balanced Revolutionary CORETM wireless motor
COME SEE US IN THE TENT AT SWISS DAYS! MASTER SERVICE TECHNICIAN SMALL GAS & DIESEL ENGINES
(260)692-6814
Rebecca Schwartz’s
Fabric Store-N-More A
1327 US Hwy 27 North • Berne, Indiana
Article & photos by Sylvia Marbach
ccording to store owner Rebecca Schwartz, Fabric Store-N-More sells various types of fabrics, along with a myriad of other items, such as “head coverings for women and girls.” She adds, “We have coats, and I do have some glassware gift items, machine-made quilts, and by order, I do knotted quilts, hats for men and boys, and scarves for the ladies.”
Rebecca has owned this small shop for three years. She and her husband have been married for eight years but have no children. Rebecca started her business as a way to pass the time, but it has grown and changed immensely over the years. One major alteration was a change in the store’s location. When Rebecca first opened
17
the store, it was located at her house. “We moved the store to Berne about a year-anda-half ago,” Rebecca explains.
Rebecca had done quite a bit of sewing for customers while operating the business out of her home. She still makes her sewing services available to many of her customers.
“It was a choice of moving our store to a different location to better serve the customers.” The change in location has brought in more customers and allowed Rebecca to serve a wider audience.
The business also underwent a name change. “It used to be Hickory Lane Fabrics. It just wasn’t right...it wasn’t a good name for a store in town. We live in a woods, and that’s where we came up with the name.
Blackcreek – Peddler – Antiques & Primitives Baskets, Candles & Gifts
OPEN
Thu. & Fri. 10-5, Sat. 9-2
400 State St. • Willshire, OH
260•223•8883
Where do you want to eat?
I DON’T CARE!
I.D.C.
(I Don’t Care)
PENNVILLE RESTAURANT
195 S. Union Street - Pennville, Indiana
260.731.7654
Mon. thru Sat. 5:30a.m-2p.m., Sun. 7-2
•ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT• Broasted Chicken w/All the Fixin’s EVERY 2ND SUNDAY!
“When we moved, I wanted the name to include ‘Fabric Store’ with something else, but I didn’t really want to use our last name like a lot of store owners do. I wanted something a little bit different.” While Rebecca settled on Fabric Store-N-More, she says, “My husband wanted to put up a German sign.” In fact, the sign above the entrance to the store reads, “Stoff Ladeli,” meaning “Little Fabric Store.”
FABRIC
Store-N-More ALL KINDS OF FABRICS Creme Fraiche • Pongee • Melanges Lyric Wide • C.K. • Carmilla Crepe Knits • Suit Materials
SWISS DAYS SALE July 25-27
10% Off STOREWIDE
Excludes Special Orders & Gift Certificates
QUILTS 20% Off
Smiling, Rebecca admits, “We’ve found that most people, even the Amish around here can’t read it. Or, they might be able to read it, but they don’t know what it means.” Aside from sewing, Rebecca also tends to her walk-in customers. “I come in around nine o’clock and open the store. Then, I get busy with sewing, and if there are customers, I take care of my customers. I do a lot of sewing, actually, during the day.”
SEWING NOTIONS GIFT ITEMS QUILTS
1327 US Hwy 27 North Berne, IN 46711
Next to East of Chicago Pizza
260.729.7625
While interacting with people and working at the register are her favorite part of owning Fabric Store-N-More, Rebecca expresses appreciation for her many sewing projects. “They give me something to do when I’m not helping customers.”
HOURS: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 9-5 Fri. 9-6 Sat. 8:30-1 Closed Weds. & Sun.
WE APPRECIATE OUR CUSTOMERS!
Rebecca adds, “But, we definitely wouldn’t be here without the customers.”
Polymer Modified Asphalt Emulsion Sealer
Surprisingly, Rebecca has no employees. Aside from some friends and family members occasionally helping with the sewing, she runs the business entirely independently. “I have a cousin that will help me out once in a while, but I basically do it myself. I have Wednesdays off and, of course, Sundays. Otherwise, I’m the one here,” she explains.
19
(Easy Stir-3 Year Formula)
24.69 per 5 gallon
$
A professional grade driveway repair and maintenance product that is modified by the addition of select polymers for exceptional durability, weathering and dries to a rich matte black finish. The addition of finely graded aggregate fills cracks up to 1/8” and provides increased traction. Our exclusive WearGuard® process promotes longer life & early wash-off resistance.
Schwartz Mfg.
1261 W 200 S – Berne, IN 46711
Rebecca says that her store attracts people “from every walk of life. She continues, “It’s not one specific customer or one specific type of person. We have all types of people that come in and out.” Although Rebecca misses being outdoors and close to home, she enjoys the increase in customers and greater visibility.
155 E. Buckeye, Berne (260)589-2880 www.bernereadymix.com 12/29/2009 10:58:01 PM
HISTORIC SCHUG HOUSE INN Lodging
Breakfast
Rebecca credits Tony Mellencamp for his help in acquiring the place. “What we really wanted was something in town that wouldn’t be outrageous on rent. Tony has been a big help to us with this. “We’re hoping that we can stay here for awhile, just because we do like the location and it’s nice on the rent – even though the space is kind of small.”
w/
Rebecca has also made a few changes to her products over time. “We try to keep adding more stuff, like I keep adding different materials and more gift items. We do have a few items that people consign. They just bring things in.”
RATES $46 & UP • Whole House Rental Available • Extended Stay Suites Available • Air Conditioning • Private Baths • Cable TV & Wi-Fi • Recreation & Attractions Nearby
ASK ABOUT SPECIAL! COUPON ON P. 60! For Reservations, call
706 W. Main Street, Berne
(260)301-6393 schughouseinn@comcast.net
20
She explains that trying out new fabrics in the store is a trial-anderror process. “I had to do a lot of guesswork on fabrics. You just learn as you go. You try one thing, and if that doesn’t move, you get rid of it and try something else.” Rebecca adds, “I know what a lot of people use. I know what I like, and what I use, and that gives me some idea. And, I know what a lot of people around here wear, and what they would use for maybe baby clothing.
Now offering Auto, Home, Renters
Call Today (260)589-3640
Retirement
Before opening her shop, Rebecca purchased much of her own fabric at stores in Fort Wayne. “Stores around here just don’t carry a lot of fabric for clothing.”
666 W. Main St. Berne, IN
She has also done away with a few items. “I did have Tupperware, but I’m getting out of that since I don’t really sell enough to bother with it.” She realizes that determining which she should focus on is a major part of the success of her business. Rebecca says, “I do enjoy the business. There’s a lot of responsibility and stuff that needs to be looked after... but, I definitely enjoy it.” WVL
Mortgage Health
Celebrating 30 years of service in 2013!
Rebecca is continually looking for new product ideas. “We’ve just brought in another shelf for more fabric,” she says. “Hopefully, we can keep adding here.”
Life
Life Insurance and Mortgage Insurance
“And, I have sisters and sister-in-laws that like certain fabrics and colors, so that gives me ideas, too.”
Now, she says, “We have wholesale companies we buy from. Mostly, I do my orders over the phone.”
Annuities
Deryll Zurcher (260)525-3640
Medicare Plans
Long Term Care Cancer & Dental Auto Homeowners Renters
Andrew Zurcher (260)525-8895
dgzurcher@gmail.com www.insurancehaus.com
Indiana Pancake House & Restaurant
919 N. Main St., Bluffton, IN • (260)353-1414
50% OFF
Buy One Meal & 2 Beverages at Regular Price & Receive 2nd Meal of equal or lesser value 50% OFF! Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner • Mon.-Fri. Only Not valid with any other specials or discounts. Discount cannot be taken on $4.00 specials or steak entrees.
21
Sat. - Mon. 6am to 3pm \ Tues.-Fri. 6am to 8pm
2013 + SWISS DAYS A LIST OF OUR MOST BELOVED SWISS DAYS ACTIVITIES
Open from 5-10 p.m Thursday; 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday & Saturday
Held at South Adams Schools from Thursday evening through Saturday afternoon – Admission fee is $3
Stop by Swiss Heritage Village between 9 a.m and 4 p.m. for the antique tractor & engine show, cheese-making demonstrations & more
Enjoy the sounds of polka at the downtown stage on Friday and Saturday evenings as you treat yourself to homemade apple dumplings
Drive out to scenic Pine Lake for the annual sand sculpture competition, held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday
SWISS DAYS IS JULY 25-27 IN BERNE, INDIANA 22
Merlin & Martha Hilty’s
Merlin’s Martin Houses 1757 S 200 W • Monroe, Indiana
P
Article & photos by Ashley Olson
urple Martins are dependant upon people for housing because more aggressive bird species will often overtake their nests. And, if it weren’t for the artificial housing that people provide Purple Martins, this species of swallows would likely vanish from North America.
these birds with a safe place to live. They not only put up special housing on their own property, but they also sell Purple Martin houses to others.
Merlin Hilty and his wife, Martha, are well aware of this plight and work to provide
“I also work at Schwartz Manufacturing, so these are the best times to do it.”
“We started selling Purple Martin houses in ’04,” says Merlin. “We do it together in the evenings and on Saturdays.
23
Need More Space?
DecaturPM.com
Locally Owned and Operated since 1986!
DECATUR
The Hiltys have made a few of the houses themselves, but they also purchase houses from wholesalers. “I just started getting an interest and bought a couple of houses on my own because I was looking for something else to do,” Merlin recalls. As a testament to their passion for nurturing Purple Martins, the couple sells the housing units to others at wholesale prices. This is certainly a welcome prospect to those who are looking to help these birds without spending a fortune. Merlin and Martha both grew up relatively close to where they currently operate Merlin’s Martin Houses. Martha’s childhood home was also home to a colony of Martins. “She had Martins growing up around here, and I didn’t. She’s the one who got me really interested in Purple Martins,” says Merlin. “Several years ago, we relocated out here because it was a better environment for the Martins. They’re particular about where they nest.”
SELF-STORAGE
260.724.3373
Office located at 1221 Guy Brown Drive
24
Merlin isn’t exaggerating. In fact, there are a whole host of suggested requirements for how people should set up the housing units for Purple Martins. - The houses need to be up on a pole that’s at least 10 feet high. - The houses shouldn’t be put near or in trees because cats and raccoons can get to them. - Martins need about 60-feet of open space around their housing units so they can swoop in easily while avoiding trees. - These birds like housing that’s near water so they don’t have to travel more than two miles for a drink. - Purple Martins also reside where they can easily see humans because they know people provide extra protection from predators. Despite all of the work and care that goes into providing Purple Martin housing, the Hiltys believe it’s worth their effort. “One of the best parts of doing this is probably helping people get started with Purple Martins – helping them establish a colony,” says Merlin. “It’s a feeling of accomplishment when somebody comes to me and says that they’re starting a new colony and want houses. “It’s always nice to help people get more involved with nature,” Merlin adds. “And, it is definitely important to help the Purple Martins because they’re totally dependant upon human housing in this half of the United States.” Humans have been providing shelter for Purple Martins for centuries, starting when Native Americans would hollow out gourds for these birds to nest in. Initially, the Martins would live in hollowed-out trees, with no help from people. However, when the gourds were placed on poles in the open, Martins quickly adopted these as their nests. The reasoning was that the hollowed-out gourds were far better than trees because natural predators couldn’t reach them atop the poles.
Your favorite Christian Amish fiction writers—and MORE!
Faith & Life Books and Gifts 159 W. Main Street, Berne (260)589-2135
SAVE EVERYDAY!
Men’s & Women’s Clothing, Accessories & More
HOURS Mon. thru Sat. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
222 W. Lincoln Street Portland, Indiana
Next to El Camino Restaurant
(260)726-6190
20% OFF
Any One (1) Clothing Item Excludes Simply Kelly & Home Decor
Must present coupon - One offer per person Not valid with any other offer
Expires 08/31/13
25
222 W. Lincoln Street, Portland Next to El Camino Restaurant
SIMON’S Manufacturing Inc. 7315 US Hwy 27 S Just south of Berne
(260)589-3223
Decorative Lawn Ornaments
Once Native Americans noticed the Purple Martins enjoying their new homes, they continued putting hollowed-out gourds on high poles. The Indians appreciated how Martins helped control the housefly population, sang beautiful music, and swooped down to the gourd houses with tremendous agility. When European settlers arrived to North America and observed the housing tradition, they also adopted this practice. The Hiltys don’t hollow out gourds for their houses like the Indians did, though they do sell houses shaped like a gourd. The housing units provided by the Hiltys are made of wood and/or plastic.
CARDINAL CONSTRUCTION • Roofing
• Siding
• Decks
• Windows
• Drywall Work
• Remodeling
• All Painting Projects —Interior & Exterior—
Customers who stop by Merlin’s Martin Houses can see a fine example of the units in action. There are five Martin houses mounted on high poles, and they overlook the Hiltys’ spacious pond. Each home features several different levels, which is quite reminiscent of multi-story human houses. At any time during the day, one can see
• Church Steeples • Barn Roofs 322 W 400 S Berne, IN 46711
(419) 953-3511
26
And what’s great is that the Hiltys sell Purple Martin housing at wholesale prices, meaning you can get units as cheaply as possible. So, if you’d love to help out a dependant bird species and enjoy their lovely songs on a daily basis, head out to Merlin’s Martin Houses. WVL
CLASSICS PLUS AUTO SALES Autos & Motorcycles 607 W. Franklin Street Berne, Indiana
(260)589-3104 classicsplusautosales.com
27
PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY MEN & WOMEN
P GRAHAM DUNN & BILLY JACOBS WALL HANGINGS
QUILTED HANDBAGS – CANDLES
FLOORING – FURNITURE – HOME DECOR – PRIMITIVE DECOR
Anyone interested in starting their own Purple Martin colony should visit Merlin’s Martin Houses on a Saturday or a weekday evening. Merlin and Martha are ready to provide you with units and information on how to attract your first few Martins.
Willshire, OH 419.495.2833 Home Furnishings 318 State Street, Bill & Aleta Weiss, Owners Specializing in...
And, as for trees in close proximity, raccoons and cats would have to make quite a leap to the Martin houses here because there isn’t a tree within 50 feet of the units. This fulfills another requirement, since there’s lots of open space around the housing, and the swallows can easily swoop in and out their artificial nests.
W
Also, the Hiltys have placed units less than 20 feet away from their deck. This meets the requirement on being within sight of humans because it makes the Martins feel they are safe from predators.
SMALL-TOWN FRIENDLY & EXCEPTIONAL PRICES
The Hiltys have done an excellent job of providing everything that these birds prefer. For starters, the units are within a short swoop of the pond, thus offering easy access to water and insects. The latter is key because insects like water, and it makes for easy hunting for the Martins.
ILLSHIRE
several Purple Martins nesting in the various units. The best time to see these birds at their peak is in the morning or evening, when Martins spend the most time in their houses.
2013 + SWISS DAYS FUNDRAISER Wondering the value of your antique and collectible items but don’t want to pay hundreds of dollars for a professional appraisal? Pack up your valuables and head to downtown Berne during Swiss Days for the 4th annual What’s It Worth? Swiss Days Appraisal Fundraiser! Certified appraiser Brian McCall, of Midwest Estate Buyers in Zionsville, Indiana, will offer a professional opinion of the value of your items. A lifelong collector, McCall opened his business in Zionsville 16 years ago, and while he is certified to valuate a variety of antiques and collectibles, his areas of special expertise include: watches, jewelry, coins and currency. McCall says he was uncertain about establishing an estate liquidation business in the beginning, but now, “I am quite confident that I am exactly where God has called me and because of that, this business has been richly blessed.” He adds, “I realized that the other businesses that buy are only interested in making as much money as possible, as opposed to having compassion for the circumstances that have brought the person to this decision. In many cases, it is the end of a relationship, a death, or bad choices that have resulted in the need to liquidate a piece. “I recognize this and try to have compassion for what brought the person to this place. I try to help people realize that what they are selling is just stuff and is not life-or-death.” The What’s It Worth? Swiss Days Appraisal Fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 27 at the Berne Antique Mall. Items will be appraised during these hours in exchange for a small donation – $5 per item or 3 items for $12. All proceeds benefit the art and music programs at South Adams Schools. Tune into WBCL’s (Northeast Indiana: 90.3 FM; Northwest Ohio: 89.5 FM; Muncie: 106.1 FM) Mid-Morning program on Friday, July 26 at 10 a.m. to hear Brian McCall appraise items over the radio in a preview of the Swiss Days Appraisal Fundraiser. The Berne Antique Mall, owned by Chad and Renee Captain of Bluffton, is located at 105 W. Water Street in Berne, Indiana. Contact the Berne Antique Mall by calling (260)589-8050.
28
featuring Brian McCall of MIDWEST ESTATE BUYERS Zionsville, Indiana
Bring your items for appraisal!
Berne Antique Mall Saturday, July 27 10 am - 2 pm
29
AREA EVENTS CALENDAR
1st
4th
Book Discussion 10:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
Century Bike Tour 7:30 a.m. Jubilee Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851
Christian Fiction
Food & Fun Cooking 10:30 a.m. - Noon Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270
Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
Poetry Coterie
3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
2nd
Chocolate Gems 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
The Firecracker
Old-Fashioned Farmer Days
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9270
Old-Fashioned 4th of July
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. VW Historical Museum Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851
July 4th Parade 11:00 a.m. Downtown Portland, Indiana (260) 726-9548
Museum of the Soldier Special Exhibit 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-2967
Old-Fashioned Farmer Days
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9270
Art in the Park Noon - 1:30 p.m. Washington Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Market on Main / First Fridays
3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Downtown Main Street Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6911
Lima Symphony Orchestra 7:00 p.m. Fountain Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378
Movie at the Park: The Lorax 8:45 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
6th
dasMärit Farmers & Artists Market
3rd
Independence Day Concert
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
Fireworks Display
4-H 5K Fun Run/Walk
Fireworks Display
Farmers Market
Fireworks Display
Farmers Market
5th
Old-Fashioned Farmer Days
Ronald McDonald Visit
Farmers Market 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
Wet & Wacky Swim 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wells Community Pool Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Spike & the Bulldogs 7:00 p.m. Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809
8:00 p.m. B-H Middle School Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
10:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. B-H Middle School Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069 Dusk Smiley Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851
Dusk Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-9548
Artist in Action
9:00 a.m. - Noon Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
1
8:00 a.m. - Noon First Mennonite Church Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2936 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Wells County 4-H Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412 8:00 a.m. - Noon Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
8:00 a.m. - Noon Courthouse Portland, Indiana (260) 726-2565
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9270
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
Woodsman Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (651) 269-2120
Mississinewa Valley Band 8:00 p.m. Clock Tower Plaza Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3139
7th
Old-Fashioned Farmer Days
9:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9270
Indiana National Guard Band 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
8th
Food & Fun Cooking 10:30 a.m. - Noon Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270
Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
Jay Co. Fair Begins Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4331
9
th
Fair Circuit Harness Races 10:00 a.m. Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4331
Unofficial Hunger Games Survival 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
10th
12th
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
9:00 a.m. - Noon Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
Farmers Market
Artist in Action
Pottery Class
Senior Pool Tournament
Cooking Class with Chef Hector Minon
Wheels of Yesteryear Tractor Pull
Wet & Wacky Swim
Market on Main
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wells Community Pool Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
11th Creatures of Nature 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Smiley Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9121
LEGO Adventures 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270
Farmers Market
3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 1st Street Parking Lot Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604
Weight Watchers Meeting 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
“Who Picked This Book?” Book Discussion 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
Animal/Zoo Program 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
9:00 a.m. Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Wells County 4-H Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Downtown Main Street Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6911
Art in the Park Noon - 1:30 p.m. Washington Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
VW Area Concert Band 7:00 p.m. Fountain Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378
Movie at the Park: Ice Age Continental Drift 8:45 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
13th
Wells Co. 4-H Fair Starts 4-H Fairgrounds Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
dasMärit Farmers & Artists Market 8:00 a.m. - Noon First Mennonite Church Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2936
Farmers Market 8:00 a.m. - Noon Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
2
Calvarymen Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Saturday Night at the Village
VERSATILITY • Hot or cold - electric, gasoline, diesel, or hydraulic - diesel fuel, natural gas or LP - portable or stationary - truck or trailer mounted - we can do it all • 2 GPM to 650 GPM - 500 PSI to 60,000 - whatever size you need • We specialize in custom-built units to fit YOUR special needs
7:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m. Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
14th
Railroad Heritage Weekend Noon - 5:00 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851
DEPENDABILITY • Established in 1962 • Each unit rigorously tested • Minimal maintenance • Warranty on all machines
History of William Wells
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION • Service after the sale • Complete line of parts and accessories • We service all brands of pressure washers • Qualified technicians to answer your questions
(260) 728-4433 Toll-Free (800) 338-7373 www.aquablast.com
Located at 1025 W. Commerce Drive, Decatur Indiana
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wells Co. Historical Museum Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5443
15th
Food & Fun Cooking 10:30 a.m. - Noon Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270
Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
All Books Considered Railroad Heritage Weekend
Farmers Market
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 771-9851
8:00 a.m. - Noon Courthouse Portland, Indiana (260) 726-2565
Arthropod Adventure
Kid-O-Rama
Childbirth Education Class
Summer Gospel Concert
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Loblolly Marsh Bryant, Indiana (260) 368-7428
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
3
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Clock Tower Plaza Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3139 4:00 p.m. VW County Fairgrounds Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-3397
Book Discussion 10:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
Chamber Chicken BBQ 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wells County 4-H Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-0510
16th
Craft It
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
17th
Dig Into Plants
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
CHRISTNER’S (260)728-2151
SMORGASBORD
Farmer’s Market 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
18th Ivy Tech Info Session 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
LEGO Adventures 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Adams Public Library Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7270
Cave Drawing
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
Lunch: Monday thru Friday 11a.m. - 1p.m.
310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN
Sunday 11a.m. - 1:30p.m.
www.pizzakingofdecatur.com 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.
15% OFF
TOTAL BILL
W/Coupon on Page 60!
LEGO Club
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
Farmers Market
3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 1st Street Parking Lot Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604
Weight Watchers Meeting 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
Stars in the Park 6:00 p.m. Hudson Family Park Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481
Rebecca Pronsky Concert 9:00 p.m. Black Swamp Bistro Van Wert, Ohio (567) 259-3064
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
4
33
AREA EVENTS CALENDAR
19th
Farmers Market
Artist in Action
9:00 a.m. - Noon Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
Market on Main
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Downtown Main Street Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6911
Mayor’s Charity Golf Outing 11:00 a.m. Portland Golf Club Portland, Indiana (260) 726-9395
Art in the Park Noon - 1:30 p.m. Washington Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Minute by Minute 7:00 p.m. Fountain Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9378
Lions Marching Band Contest
7:00 p.m. Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana
Movie at the Park: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 8:45 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
8:00 a.m. - Noon Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
Farmers Market 8:00 a.m. - Noon Courthouse Portland, Indiana (260) 726-2565
Iron Kid Triathlon 9:00 a.m. Bellmont High School Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2520
8:00 a.m. - Noon First Mennonite Church Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2936
5
1:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
23rd
Picnic at the Museum
11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tri-State Grounds Portland, Indiana (260) 726-3500
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wells County Library Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-1612
6:30 p.m. Jay Co. Historical Museum Portland, Indiana (260) 726-7168
Silk Scarf Painting
24th
Miller Concert
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222 7:00 p.m. Arts Place Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4809
Cardboard Boat Race
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
dasMärit Farmers Market
Mom’s Support Group
Hollowblock Monster Benefit
Jay County Fairgrounds Portland, Indiana (419) 605-5336 8:00 a.m. Wells Community Pool Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
22nd
Zombie Apocalypse
10:00 a.m. - Noon Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
20th
Iron Kid Triathlon
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Silk Scarf Painting
7:00 p.m. Wells Community Pool Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Vintage Motor Bike Meet Starts
Claghorn Bros. Band
Calvarymen Quartet
21st
Adams Co. 4-H Fair Starts 4-H Fairgrounds Monroe, Indiana (260) 724-5322
Bluegrass Jamboree 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Limberlost State Site Geneva, Indiana (260) 368-7428
Farmers Market
25th Incredible Insects
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Smiley Park Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-9121
Library Olympics
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Legion Park Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
Farmers Market
3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 1st Street Parking Lot Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2604
Stars in the Park 6:00 p.m. Hudson Family Park Portland, Indiana (260) 726-4481
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
Swiss Days Starts 6:00 p.m. Downtown Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8080
Weight Watchers Meeting 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
26th
Artist in Action
9:00 a.m. - Noon Arts, Commerce Centre Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-5222
Wellness Pavilion Open House 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Muselman Wellness Pavilion Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
Pink Promenade 8:30 p.m. Clock Tower Plaza Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3139
Movie at the Park: Wreck-It Ralph 8:45 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
27
th
dasMärit Farmers Market 8:00 a.m. - Noon First Mennonite Church Berne, Indiana (260) 589-2936
Farmers Market 8:00 a.m. - Noon Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
Gospel Concert
Farmers Market
Market on Main
Antiques & Collectibles Appraisal Fundraiser
9:30 a.m. Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Downtown Main Street Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6911
Apartment Tours 11:00 a.m. Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
Rockin’ the Holidays 2:00 p.m. YMCA Camp Clay Van Wert, Ohio (419) 203-4232
Jay Fox Polka Band 2:00 p.m. Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
Ted Virgil Concert 7:00 p.m. Fountain Park Van Wert, Ohio (5419) 238-9378
8:00 a.m. - Noon Courthouse Portland, Indiana (260) 726-2565
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Berne Antique Mall Berne, Indiana (260) 589-8050
Ft. Wayne Kinder und Junge Bavarian Dancers 2:00 p.m. Swiss Village Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3173
Wilburn & Wilburn 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Gospel Barn Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
Tower JAM-Fest
7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Clock Tower Plaza Berne, Indiana (260) 589-3139
28th
Todd Harrold Concert 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Kehoe Park Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6069
29th
Mom’s Support Group 1:00 p.m. Adams Memorial Hospital Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2145
30th Science ROCKS!
3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Adams Public Library Decatur, Indiana (260) 724-2605
31st
Farmers Market 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Dutch Mill Plaza Bluffton, Indiana (260) 824-6412
Marching Patriots Ice Cream Social 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Jay County High School Portland, Indiana (260) 726-9306
To include your upcoming event on this calendar... **** Please send details about the event to the address below no later than the 15th of the month PRIOR to the event. **** Send to: calendar@ wabashvalleyliving.com OR Call us at (260) 849-2187.
SPECIAL SECTION - AREA COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
6
See store for details.
Visit us online:
(800) 589-6172 101 North Polk Street Monroe, IN 46772
www.ZurchersBestOne.com www.facebook.com/ZurchersBestOne
Find us on Facebook:
Zurcher’s Best-One Tire & Auto Care is an independent dealer and licensee of M&Z, LLP. Best-One is a servicemark of M&Z, LLP.
SINCE 1919
www.Century21ADV.com
stronger, bolder, faster
WATER HEATERS GAS/OIL FURNACES & BOILERS SNAKE CAMERA AIR CONDITIONERS PLUMBING FIXTURES
260-589-8474
SOLD Farms - Homes Acreage - Personal Property
251 E. Water Street • Berne, IN
589-2818 or (800)588-2818
www.SoldonGreen.com
Jonie & Marie Graber’s
Country Lane Bakery
D
4224 S 450 W • Berne, Indiana
Article & photos by Tara Steffen
riving down the back country roads of Adams County, one can find signs along the way, pointing to a small country bakery along county road 450 South. This quiet little shop, known as Country Lane Bakery, is owned and operated by Jonie and Marie Graber.
Although Jonie and Marie are partners in the bakery, Jonie works full-time for H G Construction. He is currently assembling cages for large chicken operations and may have up to 50 men under his supervision at one time. He is also in charge of instructing his men on how to make the cages.
Jonie and Marie have a large family of 10 children. Since two grown children are now married, the Grabers say their family has increased to 12 children. They also have four sweet, small grandchildren, ages one to three years old.
The Grabers’ oldest daughters, ages 21,19, and 16, are Marie’s helpers, working hard for her in the small bakery. Mornings start as early as 5 a.m., in order to have the baked items ready for when the bakery opens at 9 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
37
Marie’s younger children are her “future bakers,” as she calls them, and they like to help out, as well. Jonie and Marie also operate a small farm, so there are always chores for the other children to do. But, when the farm chores are done, you might find them in the bakery washing dishes or beating eggs. Some of the many baked goods available at Country Lane Bakery include: pies, cinnamon rolls, fried pies (if you’ve never had these, I strongly recommend them), homemade bread, cookies, cakes, and yeast donuts. Marie says their most popular item – their best seller – is the cinnamon rolls. She suggests to customers that
if the rolls are not eaten right away, they can be warmed in the microwave for about 2 seconds, and they will be as fresh as ever. Country Lane Bakery makes all their own fruit fillings and frostings from scratch. In fact, everything here is made from scratch, the oldfashioned way. Canned pickles, pickled beets, and pure maple syrup line the store shelves, along with homemade egg noodles. No artificial coloring or preservatives are added to the baked items. The Grabers’ store was not always a bakery. In fact, it started out as a fabric store and included
www.PennvilleCabinetry.com
Your Local Cabinet Maker since 1956
Robert Houston has been designing some of the finest kitchens in America since 1988.
small, handmade knick-knacks for the “plain people” (Old Order Amish community) among its wares. Marie operated this fabric store for sevenand-a-half years, taking orders for baked goods on the side. The Grabers made the decision to add the bakery just last year. In December, with the help of Terry Smith and Joe Spaulding of the Adams County Health Department, Jonie and Marie learned how to get their bakery up and running. The two officials instructed Marie about health regulations, refrigeration, and product labeling.
The Grabers also erected a new building to house the store in front and the bakery in back. They chose the name “Country Lane,” since the bakery was located in the country near the end of a long lane. Those traveling may see signs for Country Lane Bakery near Berne on State Road 116 and US Highway 27. On US 27, turn west on 400 South (just two miles north of Berne). Travel about 3 ½ miles to the jog and continue on 400 South until you reach 450 West. Turn right, and the bakery is located just 7/10 mile to the north. WVL
US Hwy 27 Bryant, Indiana 260.997.6940 Toll Free 1.800.255.1071
www.bryantcombineparts.com
Your Country Clipper Connection!
0% FINANCING for 48 Months on
Featuring...
Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers
Patented Stand-Up Deck •Joystick or Dual Lever Steering • Heavy Duty Cast Iron Spindles • Welded Steel Deck • Pivoting Front Axle & Deck
SEASONAL MARTINI LIST • ESOTERIC WINE LIST •• FULL BAR •• SPECIAL EVENT ROOM • OUTDOOR TERRACE DINING SEASONAL SEASONALMARTINI MARTINILIST LIST• ESOTERIC • ESOTERICWINE WINELIST LIST FULL • FULLBAR BAR SPECIAL • SPECIALEVENT EVENTROOM ROOM• OUTDOOR • OUTDOORTERRACE TERRACEDINING DINING
“““
”””— — Ryan DuVall, Fort Wayne Journal Gazette —Ryan RyanDuVall, DuVall,Fort FortWayne WayneJournal JournalGazette Gazette
SEASONAL MARTINI LIST • ESOTERIC WINE LIST • FULL BAR • SPECIAL EVENT ROOM • OUTDOOR TERRACE DINING
“
NOW SERVING LUNCH OUTDOOR DINING NOW SERVING LUNCH NOW SERVING LUNCH
Series ” — RyanConcert DuVall, Fort Wayne Journaloverlooking Gazette FRIDAYS! TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS! TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS! @ Kehoe Park TUESDAYS the THROUGH Wabash River! Check our website for these and other upcoming events! 360 N. MAIN STREET, BLUFFTON
NOW SERVING LUNCH 360 STREET, 360N.N.MAIN MAIN STREET,BLUFFTON BLUFFTON
260.353.1360 TUESDAYS THROUGH FRIDAYS! 260.353.1360 260.353.1360
DOWNLOAD A QR DOWNLOAD AA QR DOWNLOAD QR CODE READER FROM CODE READER FROM CODEPHONE’S READERAPP FROM YOUR YOUR PHONE’S APP YOUR PHONE’S APP STORE OR GO TO STORE OR GO TO STORE OR GO TO WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM FOR A FREE FOR FOR AA FREE FREE READER! DOWNLOAD A QR READER! READER! CODE READER FROM YOUR PHONE’S APP STORE OR GO TO WWW.GETSCANLIFE.COM FOR A FREE READER!
LUNCH: TUES. -- FRI. 11:30 TO 2 LUNCH: LUNCH:TUES. TUES. -FRI. FRI.11:30 11:30TO TO2 2 DINNER: TUES. THURS. 5 TO 9 DINNER: TUES. - -THURS. 55TO 360 N. MAIN STREET, BLUFFTON DINNER: TUES. THURS. TO99 FRI. - SAT. 5 TO 10 FRI. FRI.- -SAT. SAT.55TO TO10 10
260.353.1360
KITCHEN CLOSES 30 MIN. KITCHEN CLOSES KITCHEN CLOSES30 30MIN. MIN. BEFORE LUNCH: TUES. -LOUNGE FRI. 11:30 TO 2 BEFORE LOUNGE BEFORE LOUNGE
DINNER: TUES. - THURS. 5 TO 9 FRI. - SAT. 5 TO 10
KITCHEN CLOSES 30 MIN. BEFORE LOUNGE
ASK ABOUT OUR NEW CONSTRUCTION!
Berne
Eastview Apartments
105 W. Water, Berne 260.589.8050 10-5 Mon. thru Sat.
Maintenance-Free Living
Antique Mall
TREASURES from the past!
Located on 000 Road, Berne
2 Bedrooms, 900 Sq. Ft., Full-Size Washer & Dryer Range, Refrigerator, Dishwasher NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
(260)589-8602
Joseph & Ella Schwartz’s
Willow Creek Store D
5160 W 400 S • Berne, Indiana
Article & photos by Tara Steffen
riving down the back country roads of rural Indiana, you might just come across a treasure down a simple and quiet stone road. There sits a modest white-sided store, and the sign on the store front bids you welcome. So, you enter to find what treasures lie inside. Joseph and Ella Schwartz opened Willow Creek Store 14 years ago and operated it their own home. When people began to take notice of the goods they
offered, the store grew into a building outside their home. After a few years of growth, a refrigerated section was added in back and now helps to cool the entire building. Ella and the family enjoy spending time in the store on hot summer days. Ella loves to bake, and with her large family, she was buying ingredients in bulk. She realized that others would like to purchase bulk products, as well, not to mention to save money, and so, the business
41
was born. Ella started out selling bulk flour, sugar, chocolate chips, spices, etc.
and meats, as well as 50-pound bags of flour, sugar, and oats. When I remarked, “I don’t think I know anyone who bakes like that anymore,” Ella smiled.
Walking into Willow Creek Store, you notice the cool temperature right away. The store is extremely insulated to help keep all the goods fresh. The refrigerators are run by a diesel generator outside.
She replied, “Well, when you have a large family, and they begin to get married...it seems that we are baking every weekend. We love having our families come home for a meal.”
Willow Creek offers a large assortment of fresh bulk cheeses (over 20 different kinds), potatoes, apples,
Most of the bulk items sold at Willow Creek are packaged right at the store. Each item is neatly
We Offer
112 S. Meridian Street , Portland across from the post office
(260)726-4937
Fresh Fudge & Candies Made in Downtown Portland
Visit Sharlette’s for Old-Fashioned Chocolates, Licorice & Bottled Soda
3 OFF 1½ lb. Gift Box
$
of Fudge Expires 08/31/13
FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY to Funeral Homes in Berne & Geneva
YANKEE CANDLE WIND CHIMES - WILLOW TREE BEREAVEMENT GIFTS ORNAMENTAL CONCRETE Also serving Portland, Dunkirk, Pennville, Redkey & Fort Recovery
(260)726-3711
204 W. Votaw Street Next to Walgreens in Portland
Friday, July 26: Frances Bond; Gospel Singer Swiss Village Auditorium • 9:30 a.m. Tour Swiss Village’s Newly Remodeled Independent Living Apartments • 11:00 a.m. Jay Fox Polka Band Swiss Village Auditorium • 2:00 p.m. Arthur & Gloria Muselman Wellness Pavilion Open House • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, July 27: Fort Wayne Kinder Und Junge Bavarian Dancers Swiss Village Auditorium • 2:00 p.m.
1350 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana 46711 260.589.3173 • www.swissvillage.org
labeled, priced and offered in a variety of sizes. I was quite impressed with their assortment of items. There is every kind of spice one might need for baking or cooking, along with powder blends to make Ranch dressing and Cajun and barbeque marinades for meat. Willow Creek also sells cleaning products, labeled under the name Rainbow Cleaners. These come in five-gallon jugs. I asked Ella if she liked the line of soaps and cleaners. “Oh yes,” she said, “especially the degreaser. I use it on my stove and stains on clothes.” The “Incredible Clean” can be used to clean floors. The product line includes everything from laundry soap and glass cleaner to body wash and shampoo. As I talked with Ella, I was especially surprised to learn that Willow Creek provides home deliveries to local Amish every Wednesday and Friday. I would have greatly
SWISS DAYS SPECIALS 10% OFF
STOREWIDE
20% OFF
MATTRESSES
Karen’s Treasures 43
Mon., Thurs., Fri. - 10 to 5:30 • Sat. - 9 to 1:30+
444 E. MAIN, BERNE (260)589-2002
appreciated that service when my own family was younger!
ASSISTED LIVING Our Amenities Include: •• 24-hour 24-hour on-site on-site staff staff •• Medication Medication reminders reminders by by hostess hostess •• On-site beauty salon On-site beauty salon •• Pharmacy Pharmacy delivery delivery •• Planned Planned activities activities •• Weekly Weekly housekeeping/laundry housekeeping/laundry
Move toaCrownPointe– Not SnowBird?
ASpend PLACEthe YOUWinter CAN CALL HOME! with Us— Let Us Take Care of the Snow Removal!
Call for a Tour Today! Call for a Tour Today! Sheri Arbuckle, RN - Executive Director sarbuckle@cpcommunities.com
(260)726-3577 745 Patriot Drive • Portland, Indiana
BLUHM & REBER DRAIN SEWER & SEPTIC TANK CLEANING Commercial Industrial Residential
(260)565-3469 or (260)409-5408 Cell 3663 N 600 W, Decatur
Willow Creek has made a mail-order form available, or customers may call into the store with an order. Ella attributes the success of the store to this home delivery service. The store displays a large variety of greeting cards. Ella says that her aunt and uncle make them by hand. They are very beautifully done with multiple layers that are intricately cut with exquisite designs. Each card is artistically hand-colored with pencil in an array of colors. Willow Creek also has a large variety of fresh vegetables in season. Ella has a huge “garden” in the back yard. She puts her children in charge of the rows of vegetables. One child is in charge of beans, another for zucchini, etc. Each child is charged with keeping their row clean of weeds, harvesting the crop, and marketing it within the store. That child then earns their own income from the fresh vegetables they have labored to grow and harvest. Willow Creek is widely known for their South Carolina peaches. These are available during the months of June through August. They also have fresh blueberries in the summer that have been raised locally. The store offers frozen fruits, as well. What impressed me the most was the variety that Willow Creek offers. Ella sells homemade pie filling that her family makes, including such flavors as black raspberry, apple, and rhubarb. The store sells everything from milk and cheese to tortilla chips and nachos sauce. Joseph and Ella are also thinking of offering more locallygrown meats that are free from steroids and hormones. Ella’s biggest sellers are her bulk baking goods. She likes to share her “goodie” recipes with customers who come in to the store, providing a wonderful personal touch to the business. WVL
44
Corner of U.S. 27 & 300 S, Berne
(260)849-0700
ENJOY OUTDOOR LIVING!
Quality Playsets Backyard Family Backyard FamilyFurniture Furniture Polywood Corner of U.S. 27 &27300 S, Berne Corner of U.S. & 300 S, Berne
(260)849-0700 (260)849-0700
Furniture ENJOY OUTDOOR LIVING! ENJOY OUTDOOR LIVING! Open Mon., Wed., Thu., Fri. 9:30-6; Sat. 9-3; Tue. by Appt.
MiniQuality BarnsPlaysets Gazebo
LP Smart Siding & Flooring 50-Year Warranty
Available Includes Setup in Wood or Vinyl
Polywood Polywood Furniture Furniture
No Maintenance Bright New Colors
No Maintenance Bright New Colors No Maintenance Includes Setup Paint 15-Year Warranty
Bright New Colors
Rent-to-Own
Enjoy Outdoor Living!
SCHWARTZ BLACKSMITH, LLC
Backyard Family Furniture 2194 South US Highway 27 - Berne, IN Corner of U.S. 27 & 300 (260) S, Berne 692-1464 Voicemail
OUTDOOR Open Mon. thru Fri. 7:30 a.m. toENJOY 5 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. LIVING! (260)849-0700
Quality Playsets
Polywood CUSTOM FABRICATION
Outdoor Fire-Pits
Furniture FULL LINE OF STEEL & Heavy built. Stainless steelWELDING SUPPLIES cooking grill. Great for V-BELTS backyards & campsites
/ PULLEYS / BEARINGS
STAINLESS STEEL COOKER
No Maintenance Bright New Colors
Includes Setup
STOVES 269 E Main St. Berne, IN
Swiss Days Special!
Thursday - Saturday | July 25, 26, 27
260-589-8536Stop by our booth downtown during Swiss Days!
15% OFF STOREWIDE!! * Coal & Pellets Excluded * Coal - Wood - Gas Stoves and Inserts Certified Technicians & Installation
Outdoor Fire Pit & Big Green Egg 269 E. Main Street - Berne, Indiana | 260-589-8536 | www.hitzer.com
806 US 27 North Berne, IN 46711
Randall Kistler Investment Professional
RETIREMENT & ESTATE PLANNING - 401K ROLLOVER SPECIALIST 529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS - FREE PORTFOLIO REVIEW
260.589.3533
888.589.3533 RANDY@RKFINANCIALINC.COM Securities offered through National Planning Corporation (NPC). Member FINRA/SIPC. RK Financial and NPC are separate and unrelated companies.
dasMärit
Farmers & Artists Market
SUMMER HAS ARRIVED! WE REPLACE TIRES FOR: Lawn Mowers Boat Trailers Yard Carts Wheel Barrows We have Lawn Mower Batteries and Marine Batteries
BLUFFTON TIRE INC. 1308 S. MAIN ST., BLUFFTON • 824-0418
SATURDAYS 8 - NOON RAIN OR SHINE
AT US 27 & SR 218
BERNE, IN .............
Vendor Contact:
(260)589-2936
Ervin & Ruth Ann Hilty’s
E & R Seed, LLC E
1356 E 200 S • Monroe, Indiana
Article & photos by Ashley Olson
rvin R. Hilty never thought that he’d be in the business of selling seeds and gardening supplies. After all, he was busy following in his dad’s footsteps by working in the building supply business. “My father owned Hilty Builder Supply,” says Hilty. “I was working there when we started selling seeds in 1983. “And, I was still working at Hilty Builder Supply until 1996. Then, it got to the point where I had
to stay at home and take care of my own business here.” Since that time, the Wabash Valley local has built E & R Seed, LLC into a thriving business. The company not only sells seeds, but also a wide range of lawn and garden products. E & R sells its products in all 50 U.S. states and offers three different mail-order catalogs. As successful as E & R is today, it’s easy to overlook their humble beginnings back in the early 80’s.
47
Decatur Vision Center NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!
OFFERING COMPLETE EYE CARE SERVICES Contact Lenses
Glaucoma Testing Cataract Care Macular Degeneration And Many Other Services
(260) 724-2517 1401 N. 13th Street, Decatur Open Mon. Tues. Thurs. & Fri. 8-5 Weds. 10-7, Closed Sat. & Sun.
Years ago, the company was solely a farm dealership and sold soybeans and wheat. “We started out mainly dealing in farm seeds. We then moved into garden seeds,” says Erv. “But, adding the mail-order is when we really came to volume. “We opened in ’83, but we didn’t go mail-order until ’85 – we now have three catalogs. One of the catalogs is for seeds, one is a fall catalog for greenhouse supplies, and one is a spring supply catalog for gardening equipment, water supplies and pesticides.” The catalogs are mailed upon request, or they can be picked up at the E & R Seed store, which is on 1356 East 200 South in Monroe, Indiana. Those who visit the store will find a quaint building that features a vast selection of seeds and gardening equipment. They’ll also find stacks of the seasonal catalogs on the front desk. There are literally hundreds of different products offered in these catalogs. And each item includes a nice description of what consumers can expect. For instance, if you were looking in the Seed & Plant Catalog and wanted sweet corn, you could flip to this section and check out all of the sweet corn-related seeds. Seeds may be ordered by weight or in bulk quantities. Other ordering options include treated or untreated seeds and number of days to maturity. E & R Seed also carries a line of organic seeds, and Erv affirms that his business does not sell GMOs. Aside from the obvious product listings and descriptions, the catalogs also include helpful tips for growing the seeds. On page 59 of the seed catalog, readers are treated to some great advice on planting potatoes. This useful section reads: Our seed potatoes are full-size potatoes. (These will keep for several weeks if planting conditions are unfavorable.) Potatoes should be cut 2-3 days before planting and spread out to dry. For even better results, dust them with garden sulfur right after cutting. These two
STOP IN DURING
SWISS DAYS!
206 W. Main Street Berne, Indiana www.edelweissinc.com
48
precautions help prevent soil-borne diseases from entering the seed. Cut potatoes so you have at least one or two “eyes” in each piece. Average approx. 8 eyes per lb. This varies considerably. Plant approx. 12” apart in the row. Fingerling potatoes accordingly have more “eyes” and can be cut into smaller disc-shaped pieces for planting. Again have one or two “eyes” per piece. Along with the planting tips, there are also intriguing tidbits of information on certain plants and their health benefits. Page 48 discusses how onions can greatly improve one’s HDL Cholesterol:
featuring
You probably already know that onions are good for you – but did you know that if you eat half an onion a day, your HDL Cholesterol (the good kind) will go up an average of 30%? The useful health tips and planting advice are just one way that E & R Seed keeps its customers interested in the supply catalogs. And, these catalogs have no doubt helped the company boost their number of orders over the years. “The first time that we got nine orders in a day, we thought that we had the world by the tail,” recalls Hilty. “Now, we get a couple of hundred orders a day – though this slows down somewhat when we’re out of season.” E & R Seed employs up to 35 employees, depending upon the season. Hilty also counts his wife and children as employees of the company, since this is definitely a family-owned operation. His wife, Ruth Ann, does the paperwork for the business. And, most of his nine children can be found working in various capacities for E & R. It’s not hard for Erv to find enjoyment in what he does for a living. His favorite part of owning E & R Seed involves the challenges that come along with the job. “I guess I really like the everyday challenges of being able to survive in this dog-eat-dog world. I also like getting
and RECLINING CHAIRS & SOFAS
366 US 27 North, Berne
260-589-2314
Find us on Facebook!
Berne Hardware Co., Inc. Check out our Sale Table inside the Store during Swiss Days!
John Deere Items • Toys Memorabilia • Clothing Expanded Kitchenware Cake & Candy Supplies 114 W. Main St. Berne, IN (260)589-2191
49
Swiss Days Hours:
Fri. 9am-9pm • Sat. 9am-6pm
quality seeds out to make them available to gardeners and the public.” Hilty adds, “It also keeps me busy. This isn’t just a typical eight-hour-a-day job.” One point that Erv likes to stress is how much his loyal customer base has transformed E & R into the successful company it is today. “We’ve got a lot of good customers. If we didn’t have such good customers, we wouldn’t be in business today,” he says.
A Premier Public Facility
“It’s been pretty rewarding, especially with how loyal the customer base is to us. We strive to put out quality seeds and products every day.” With 30 years of quality service, it’s no wonder E & R Seeds continues to meets its challenges and remain competitive in the seed and gardening supply business. And, with the great customers that Hilty speaks of, there’s no reason why E & R shouldn’t keep growing and doing well years into the future. WVL
Portland Golf Club
124 West 200 South Portland, Indiana
Schedule a Tee Time on Our 18-Hole Course!
(260)726-4646 Other Amenities Include: Driving Range \ Putting Green Chipping & Pitching Green Full-Service Snack Bar \ Pro Shop Club Regripping & Repair Service
A Taste of the Way Things Used to Be... Hours: Mon - Sat 11 - 9 p.m.
South of Berne on US 27 260-589-3434
EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
FACT:
Introducing...
Plants cannot “make” minerals. If they are missing from your soil, they will be missing from the vegetables you harvest.
Serious The only fertilizer you will ever need. . . . . . the best you will ever use.
All HyR BRIXTM fertilizers contain 30 essential nutrients, are free of fillers and do not contain any chemicals, pesticides, insecticides, or GMO products!
HyR BRIX puts these important vitamins and minerals back into your garden soil. TM
VISIT OUR STORE! We are right here in Adams County Indiana, between Berne and Monroe – in real farm country! FLOWER SEEDS, FRUIT TREES, BERRY PLANTS
VEGETABLE SEEDS - Over 1200 Varieties
GREENHOUSES & ACCESSORIES
OUTDOOR COOKING SUPPLIES Adjustable Tripods & Utensils Fire Pits, Kettles & Smokers Cast Iron Skillets & Griddles Lump Charcoal
AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR:
2194 US Hwy 27, Berne (Next to Schwartz Blacksmith)
Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sat. 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Gersh’s NING, INC. CARPET CLEA
Call (260) 692-6366
When You Want the Professionals You Can Trust
- Serving Adams, Wells, Jay & surrounding counties since 1994 -
Specializing in carpet & upholstery cleaning and water damage restoration FLOOD RESTORATION - LEATHER CLEANING/CONDITIONING AUTO & UPHOLSTERY - CERAMIC TILE & GROUT CLEANING
Your locally-owned and operated IICRC Certified Technicians www.gershscarpetcleaning.com
4310 S US Hwy 27 (260)589-2671
SIGN UP FOR SWISS DAYS DOOR PRIZES—
DRAWING SATURDAY, JULY 27TH
NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN!
WEEKDAYS 9AM - 6PM • SATURDAYS 9AM - 4PM
www.swisslandcheese.com
SCHWARTZ MARATHON CELEBRATE WITH US!
Swiss Days July 26-27
Amusement Rides - Food - Polka Quilt Show - Horse Pull & Much More!
New This Year:
225 US Hwy 27 S, Berne
Manual Wheel Chairs Hospital Beds & Accessories Bath Safety Products Rollator Walkers Lift Chairs And More
Berne’s Got Talent
7 p.m. Friday, South Adams Auditorium
Old Fashion Hymn Sing
2 p.m. Saturday, Cross Community Church
Tower JAM-Fest
7:30 p.m. Saturday, Muensterberg Plaza
Visit www.bernein.com/SwissDays for Details & Schedule. #BerneSwissDays
Offering a Complete Line of Mobility Products!
(260)589-2258
Lavern & Marvin Schwartz’s
Outdoor Cooking O
2194 US Hwy 27 • Berne, Indiana
Article & photos by Tara Steffen
utdoor Cooking, located just a few miles north of Berne, is an Amishowned business with a long history. To understand the rich heritage of the small shop, you need to know about its origins. David L. “D.L.” Schwartz opened his blacksmith shop in 1935. It has been in the family for 78 years and is now owned and
operated by Lavern and Marvin Schwartz, David’s grandsons. There are currently three businesses located on the property – Outdoor Cooking, D.L. Schwartz Fabricating, and D.L. Schwartz Farrier and Hardware. Outdoor Cooking specializes in just what the name implies – outdoor cooking grills
53
and smokers. They feature Primo grills, which are top-of-the-line ceramic grills with a 20-year warranty. These grills are sturdy and heavy-duty – quite capable of lasting for decades. Primo grills and smokers do not use regular sulfur charcoal. Rather, they burn a product called lump charcoal, which more of a natural wood charcoal. If regular briquette
the homeplace Country. Classic. Chic
charcoal were used, the meat would take on a sulfur taste because the grills are so airtight. These grills have the ability to hold a constant temperature for up to 12 hours at a time, without requiring more charcoal. This makes temperature control much easier. Lavern says that they use their Primo grill to cook large pork loins or prime ribs. They
SUB REQUEST WEDNESDAYS
WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE. LUNCH & DINNER BUFFET
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
SEAMLESS GUTTERS
have also baked cookies and even pizza inside the grill.
ROOFING - SIDING WINDOWS - DOORS & MORE
Outdoor Cooking carries related products, such as cooking chunks or smoking chips. These can be combined with the lump charcoal for adding particular flavors, including pecan, cherry, apple, and maple. Soaking the cooking chunks or smoking chips in water before adding them to the charcoal helps bring out more of the flavor while grilling or smoking. Outdoor Cooking also sells cast iron skillets, Dutch ovens, and kettles. All of these are made in the United States by a company called Lodge. They are top-of-the-line in iron cookware, and Lavern carries a large assortment of these. Cookbooks, seasonings, and meat injectors can also be found at Outdoor Cooking. The store carries top quality seasonings by Primo, which are supplied to local steak house restaurants in our area. These come in a variety of flavors, like apple barbeque, hickory, traditional hot, and sweet honey barbeque. I was most intrigued by one of Lavern’s products – an infrared thermometer. These guns use a laser to help detect heat, whether cooking hot oil or while trying to find a hot spot in a machine or wire during the fabrication process. Just pulling the trigger on the laser will give you an accurate temperature reading. Outdoor Cooking’s camp grills have been a good seller for Lavern. These are stands that are used to support a cooking grate over a campfire for grilling food. The grate can be swiveled around over the fire or raised to different heights. These stands are actually made by Lavern in his fabricating shop.
Matt Stoll, Proprietor Serving Adams, Allen, Wells, and Jay County and nearby communities in northern Indiana and northwest Ohio.
5” & 6” Seamless Gutters & Covers
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL OVER 36 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
260-589-9044 www.newlookexteriorsinc.com
V ELOCITY MOTORS PREMIUM SELECTED USED VEHICLES
‘11 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT 4X4
(260) 824-2165 55
1750 N. Hwy 1 – Bluffton, Indiana
New and Used Bicycles D.L. Schwartz’s fabricating shop also builds a product called a “tripod.” These hold any cast iron pot over a ground fire. They are designed with a winch for easy access in checking on the food. And, the shop produces a tripod with a grate attached near the bottom – also adjustable.
Parts • Repairs • Maintenance Less than ¼ mi. west of Hwy 27 190 W 300 N, Decatur, Indiana
J &N
Bargain Shop Horse Tack - Saddles Variety Store Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week!
277 W 500 N - Bryant, Indiana
(260) 726-2407 Norma Nichols, Owner
– Save $$ with coupon on page 47 –
THANKS FOR READING
Livıng W
ABASH VALLE
Lavern carries Wicked Good brand bulk charcoal lumps in 17-pound bags and regular charcoal in 40-pound bags. After walking through Outdoor Cooking, I was most interested in checking out the fabricating shop across the drive where the grills are made. The fabricating shop sells mostly welding and steel supplies. But, the majority of the business involves custom fabricating. They build porch railing and rod iron fencing. The shop produces a pearling machine used to process spelt, also known as Dinkel wheat, or hulled wheat. This machine cleans the grain of the hull so it can be ground for flour. The City of Goshen ordered decorative fencing from D.L. Schwartz for a downtown renovation. D.L. Schwartz also does a lot of repair work or custom fabricating for local farmers. And, the shop sharpens mower blades for bush hogs, as well as other specialty tools. Another local manufacturer, Smith Brothers of Berne, purchases work stations and carts from D.L. Schwartz fabricating for the assembly lines located in their factory. The furniture at Smith Brothers is placed on these carts and then onto a track to make it easier for the workers to move them around the factory to the different work stations. WVL
Y
56
Shop our Annual Berne Swiss Days SALE!! July 22nd thru 27th Monday thru Thursday Save
20% Off Storewide*
Friday and Saturday Save
Special Swiss Days Hours Save
Mon-Thur: 9am—5:30 pm Friday : 8am –9m
25% Off Storewide*
15% Off Special Orders*
*Discount off of Regular Retail Prices. Excludes Alex & Ani
Saturday : 8am-6pm
SUPER Sidewalk Savings 30%-50% OFF* - Grab Bags $3.00 (Values up to $75!!)
PCRS Computers
420 Winchester Road, Geneva
1-866-458-9779
www.pcrscomputers.com
REMOTE ASSISTANCE only
$60.00 COMPUTER REPAIRS–
MAINTENANCE PLAN AVAILABLE Want a healthy, trouble-free computer? We can easily fix it by a ProfessionallyTrained Technician!
HOME VISITS AVAILABLE Our Rates: Economical - Fair - Competitive Pay By the Job - Monthly or Annually
FRIEDRICH HELP US FIND
:
ED T N A W
Friedrich likes to hide. He appears in a number of hiding places throughout this magazine.
RD REWA ED! OFFER
FRIEDRICH
Hint: He especially enjoys hiding in the advertisements! See if you can find every hiding spot—then fill out the form below and mail it in for a chance to win!
the Gnome
Win a large pizza from Pizza Hut in Berne!
Congratulations to our June winner! Elaine Romer, Fort Recovery OH
FIND FRIEDRICH CONTEST ENTRY FORM Your Name
Your Street Address
# of Times Friedrich Appears
City, State & Zip
Send Completed Form To:
Wabash Valley Living Contest 346 US Hwy 27 N, Berne, IN 46711 Entry must be received by 07/15/13.
FRIEDRICH ON acebook Congratulations TO
Week 1: Mike Schwartz, Geneva A FREE pizza from East of Chicago in Berne, Indiana
Week 2: Kenya Habegger, Berne A FREE hour of bowling at Villa Lanes in Decatur, Indiana
Week 3: Julie Mansfield, Berne
$15 certificate to Sassafras on Main in Bluffton, Indiana
To Play — 1. “LIKE” the Wabash Valley Living page on Facebook. 2. VISIT the Wabash Valley Living page between Monday and Thursday to see the current contest photo. Photos are posted every Monday morning. 3. COMMENT on the photo, indicating Friedrich’s exact location in the photo. Photos may be taken in Adams, Jay or Wells County in Indiana or in Fort Recovery or Van Wert in Ohio. 4. SHARE the photo on your timeline so your Facebook friends can make a guess. Every Friday, we draw a name at random from those who correctly guessed Friedrich’s location, have “liked” our Facebook page, AND have shared that week’s contest photo on their own timeline. GOOD LUCK!
BIG COUPON SAVINGS RIDE & PLAY
18 Holes + Cart D. L. Schwartz Co.
25
$
2188 for just
– AVOID –
See Our Ad in the Map Section Farm & Home We Offer aSupplies ▪ Union DISCOUNT forks, shovels & hoes ▪
THE MIDDLEMAN
40%
S. US Hwy. 27 Berne, IN 46711
Repair handles ▪ Stovepipe ▪ Meat to Our Neighbors! Grinders & parts ▪ Horseshoeing supplies ▪ Horse training headstalls ▪ Anvils ▪ Oil lamps ▪ Coleman See our assortment of LED repair parts ▪ Pressure cookers & battery lamps and headlights. 124 West 200 South 600 E. Votaw St. Portland, parts ▪ Parmak fencers ▪IN and much Portland, Indiana 260.726.9357 more…..
Expires 12/31/13
A Premier Public Facility
Portland Golf Club
Stop in or call for a FREE Farm & Home Supplies Catalog!
COUNTRYL ANE Bakery & Gifts
4 miles Berne on Hwy 27 4224 S 450 W, north Berne,ofIndiana Hours 8:00 –5:00 M-F 8:00 –11:30 Sat. 1-800-955-3064
See Our Ad in the Map Section
4 miles north of Berne on Hwy 27
1-800-955-3064
15% OFF
D & H WORKSHOP
1343 E 1000 S, GENEVA IN
TOTAL BILL
Not valid with any other coupon, discount or daily special EXPIRES JULY 31, 2013
310 E. Monroe Street Decatur, IN
(260)728-2151
5 OFF
$
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 51
per Night at
HISTORIC SCHUG HOUSE INN 706 W. Main Street Berne
—with this coupon— NOT VALID DURING SWISS DAYS EXPIRES 12/31/13
SEAMLESS GUTTERS
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 6
OUTDOOR COOKING SUPPLIES
2194 US Hwy 27, Berne (Next to Schwartz Blacksmith)
M.C. HILTY CONSTRUCTION 2575 W 250 S, Berne
(260)768-8154
Backyard Family Furniture US 27 & 300 S, BERNE
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 45 SCHWARTZ BLACKSMITH
2194 S. US 27 Berne, IN
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 45 SEE OUR COUPON IN THE MAP SECTION WILLOW CREEK STORE
5160 W 400 S Berne, Indiana
ROOFING - SIDING WINDOWS - DOORS & MORE
10% DISCOUNT on Gutters & Covers
Call Matt (260) 589-9044
10% OFF any purchase
@ Karen’s Treasures expires 07/31/13
444 E. Main Street, Berne
ountryroad C ¤ ¤ ¤¤ Candles * ¤¤¤¤
*
Gifts *
~N ~
1641 West 200 South Berne, IN 46711
See Our Ad in the Map Section
FREE Cup of Coffee
(419) 953-3511
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 51
6807 S 300 E, Berne, IN
with any Meal. Expires 08/31/13
I.D.C.
(I Don’t Care)
PENNVILLE RESTAURANT
195 S. Union Street Pennville, Indiana
See Our Ad in the Map Section
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 26 CARDINAL CONSTRUCTION
Schwartz Weaving
SEE OUR AD IN THE MAP SECTION
10% OFF Proven Winners® Shrubs Expires 08/31/13
Joe’s 2898 S 000 Road Monroe, Indiana
Lighting
PRODUCTS
M & M Flowers 2099 S 100 E Monroe, Indiana
Schwartz Shoe Store
10% OFF
SEE OUR AD IN THE MAP SECTION
Bargain Shop
555 E 300 S, Monroe IN
ANY PURCHASE
J &N
Expires 07/31/13
277 W 500 N Bryant, Indiana
MORE SPECIAL OFFERS OR COUPONS ON PAGES... - 21, 25, 39, 42, 45, 52, 54 $2 OFF
the price of ONE adult admission with this coupon. Excludes Swiss Days - Expires 07/31/13
SWISS HERITAGE VILLAGE Berne, Indiana
www.swissheritage.org
10% OFF See Our Ad on Page 19 Schwartz Mfg. 1261 W 200 S Berne, IN 46711
Entire Order
with coupon. Not valid with other coupons or offers. Limit one per bill per visit. Present coupon when ordering. Expires at end of 2013 season.
South of Berne on US 27
NEED ADVICE? CALL TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION.
—Bankruptcy— —Wills & Estates— —Criminal Law— —Litigation— ERIC D. ORR ATTORNEY AT LAW
346 US Hwy 27 N Berne, Indiana
260.589.2345 www.bernelegal.com
5% OFF
July 1 thru July 31
All Furniture in Stock
HILTY’S FURNITURE
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 11
BLUE CREEK SALES
1909 S 100 E Monroe, Indiana
1510 S. 200 W. Monroe, IN
FABRIC
SAM’S ENGINE CLINIC
Store-N-More SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 19
HONDA POWER EQUIPMENT SALES & SERVICE
1601 W. State Road 124
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 16
1327 US Hwy 27 N BERNE
10% OFF Storewide July
SALE
(Excludes Furniture & Food Items) Expires 007/31/13
WILMEN’S COUNTRY STORE 421 E 100 S, Monroe, Indiana 1 Mile South & ½ Mile East of Monroe
10% OFF One (1) Stamp Expires 07/31/13
SWISS WOODWORKING STAMPS & SALES
371 W 500 S, Berne, Indiana ¾ mi. east of Black Bear Inn
Our Ads are seen by
THOUSANDS of Readers Every Month! Raelene Hirschy
Sharon Roberts
Adams, Wells & Van Wert County
Jay County & Fort Recovery
raelene@wabashvalleyliving.com
sharon@wabashvalleyliving.com
Ad Sales Rep
(260) 820-0516
5% OFF Your Purchase (with coupon)
during the month of July 2013!
R & E SALES
825 E 200 S - Monroe, IN
Ad Sales
(419) 852-1017
ENGINE HOUSE QUILT SHOP
164 W. Main Street, Berne
FREE Fat Quarter
$10 OFF any MARTIN HOUSE or GOURD RACK in stock! thru 10/31/13
when you present this coupon. EXPIRES 07/31/13
1757 S 200 W MONROE, IN
Nationally recognized care. Available right here. Every day, Bluffton Regional Medical Center is committed to providing patients with the kind of high-quality care that has earned national recognition from some of the most demanding organizations in healthcare. In addition to receiving this recognition for Outstanding Patient Experience, Surgical Care and Pneumonia, we have been certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center and accredited as a Chest Pain Center. Bluffton Regional has also been ranked in the top 10% of hospitals in the nation for adherence to national benchmarks by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. These seals are your assurance that Bluffton Regional is deeply committed to providing you and your family with outstanding care.