July 2013 Edition

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

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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

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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

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Relax — There’s a Good Neighbor close to you.

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • HEALTH

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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

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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!

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.”

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“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

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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25

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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

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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

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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

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27

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY MEN & WOMEN

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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.

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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.

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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

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251 E. Water Street • Berne, IN

589-2818 or (800)588-2818

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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

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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

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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

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Jay Fox Polka Band Swiss Village Auditorium • 2:00 p.m.

Arthur & Gloria Muselman Wellness Pavilion Open House • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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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

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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

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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

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STOVES 269 E Main St. Berne, IN

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15% OFF STOREWIDE!! * Coal & Pellets Excluded * Coal - Wood - Gas Stoves and Inserts Certified Technicians & Installation

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806 US 27 North Berne, IN 46711

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Vendor Contact:

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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

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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

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Hours: Mon - Sat 11 - 9 p.m.

South of Berne on US 27 260-589-3434

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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

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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

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4310 S US Hwy 27 (260)589-2671

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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

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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

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WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE. LUNCH & DINNER BUFFET

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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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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.

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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.

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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

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Shop our Annual Berne Swiss Days SALE!!

July 22nd thru 27th Monday thru Thursday Save

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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!

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the price of ONE adult admission with this coupon.

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