The Lakes of Kosciusko Magazine February 2021

FREE MONTHLY PRINT MAGAZINE WITH CORRESPONDING MOBILE APP AND SOCIAL MEDIA FEATURING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES, AND EVENTS IN AND AROUND KOSCIUSKO, ELKHART, NOBLE & LAGRANGE COUNTY

FEBRUARY 2021

MAGAZINE

HopLore Brewing Co. Brings a Unique Approach to the Craft Beer World

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Four years ago, Eric Howard, owner of Bluebird Ag, was touring with musical stars like Janet Jackson, Lady Gaga and Justin Timberlake for most days out of the year. After being in charge of logistics for 13 years, Howard decided that he had had enough of the fast-paced, Rock ’n’ Roll lifestyle. He and his wife, Natalie, were looking to settle down and start a family.

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continuing to make money, they decided to open a business spraying crops three years ago.

“I started flying when I was 13 years old,” Howard says. “My wife grew up on a farm, so we combined my love of airplanes and

aviation and her farming background.”

The idea was developed four years ago, Howard says, but they were not able to start right away. So, they started by irrigating crops, spraying them with water from planes. Slowly, spraying crops with chemicals crept into

their capabilities, and now, they have a form of innovation that is unrivaled in the United States.

“We are the first crop-dusting operation to be approved for use of drones for aerial application in the United States of America,”

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Using drones for crop dusting is typically unheard of, but the method proves to be much more effective. Since the drones are smaller, they are able to get into smaller areas or areas that are harder to reach. They offer precision.

Besides the mere idea of using drones, the situation at Bluebird Ag proves to be unique in other ways. All of their drone pilots are also certified airplane pilots, all maintaining their aerial application license from the Office of Indiana State Chemist.

Bluebird Ag has also insured all of its drones with the same insurance used for their airplanes.

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To get the idea started, the Howards began talks with a drone attorney. The attorney specializes in waivers from the Federal Aviation Administration. He had worked previously on getting the waivers in order for the drone light show that took place during Lady Gaga’s halftime performance at Super Bowl LI in 2015.

Using the drones allows for a much more versatile and accurate spraying of crops.

“The drones are extremely effective on spraying weeds that are only in small spots in a large field,” Howard says. “Also, in rightof-ways or very hard to access locations.

It’s very precise and doesn’t run over and damage the vegetation. It also works very well on precision-mosquito spraying, for your residence or for a special event.”

keep the surrounding environment chemical-free. Having a smaller impact on the surrounding environment ties into Howard’s favorite part of the business.

hoped for. He and Natalie welcomed their first child into the world in late April.

Bluebird Ag is open seven days a week, weather permitting, and they serve Northwest Indiana. If you have questions or if you would like to contact them to start spraying for you, you can give them a call at 219-863-4242 or visit them online at bluebirdagllc.com for more information. Bluebird AG is located at 7735 South US35 in Knox, Indiana. They have an additional location at 1060 E Division Road in Veedersburg, Indiana.

Come See Our Shed Selection The care that is shown for the environment is something else that makes Bluebird Ag special. They utilize the drones to use far fewer chemicals and avoid spraying surrounding vegetation, which helps

“It’s the technology and getting to try new things, getting to help the environment by using fewer chemicals and helping customers with issues that have been harder to tackle prior to this,” he says.

Howard’s decision four years ago to stop touring and instead spend more time at home has proven to be exactly what he’d

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HopLore Brewing Co. Brings a Unique Approach to the Craft Beer World Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

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A

beer geek is anyone who is inspired or excited about beer, especially craft beers. Stefan King, the founder and brewmaster at HopLore Brewing Co., and his co-owners, brothers Keith and Steve Wehmeyer, fit into this category.

“We like to call ourselves the brewery for beer geeks,” King says. “Our motto is, ‘Brewed with Imagination.’”

From the first time Steve and his wife Katey visited HopLore in 2018, he knew he wanted to be a part of the team.

“We just happened to be out one day antiquing,” he says. “By complete accident, we came to HopLore for a flight. I was incredibly impressed by the beer - so much so that I asked to talk to the brewer. Stefan and I talked, and I shared my admiration for the product.

It may have been that day that I asked, ‘By any chance, are you looking for an investor?’”

Soon after that conversation, the brothers met to discuss possible retirement projects that they could do together, since both of them

were either retired or would be retiring soon.

Among the ideas they discussed, the one that jumped out the most to Keith was owning a brewery.

“I didn’t see that coming,” Steve says. “So here we are.”

The three owners of HopLore have an incredible synergy. Keith, previously a general manager in the computer industry, now utilizes his business expertise as HopLore’s chief financial officer. Steve, formerly a toy designer, exercises his graphic abilities as the brewery’s creative director. At the core of the business is King, who fully leverages his natural culinary skill in the development of truly unique beers.

“I think my favorite part is just the chance to work with these two guys,” Keith says. “I enjoy that the most, and by extension the rest of the team - the staff that’s a part of this. It’s fun.”

Since HopLore opened in 2017, the company has made more than 100 different in-house craft beers. At any given time, HopLore’s

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bartenders, Blake and Jane, are happy to pour a pint of any of their staple beers - Boo Boo’s Brown Ale, How Now Chocolate Milk Stout, Near East IPA, Outskirts Cream Ale, and 14 other beers, many of which are made in-house.

The drinks vary, but one thing remains the same - they don’t taste like ordinary beers.

This is largely due to the brewing ingredients, which range from fruit to cookies and locally sourced doughnuts.

“Stefan approaches beer in a different way,” Steve says. “He’s very creative in the way that he combines flavors and it results in a different kind of beer. They’re just delightful beers.

They’re very different than other stuff you’re going to find.”

They also have other domestic and imported craft beers on tap.

“I’m a beer geek,” says King, who took over brewing early last year. “I trade for beers all over the country and we get some of the rarest beers from other breweries as well, to accompany our beers.”

Throughout the year, HopLore offers specialty seasonal beers. One of their most popular beers, Milford Ditch, a favorite among the owners, is only released on Black Friday.

Another Christmas season favorite among patrons is Imperial Amish Krack. This stout was inspired by and made from Rise’n Roll Bakery’s most popular doughnut.

Besides serving beer that is brewed in-house, HopLore also offers a signature menu, prepared by Chef Nick Furney.

“What I was looking for was a food lineup that went along with our theory for our beer,” King explains. “It was kind of the idea of bringing world foods together in a familiar palate.”

Although HopLore has a few constant food items - specifically their charcuterie boards, and a few tacos like their peanut butter and jelly and smoked salmon selections - the menu is constantly changing.

“I get bored really quickly,” says King with a

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chuckle. “We change our menu up almost every other week. The way we’ve dubbed the kitchen is it’s an experimental kitchen that is American fusion.”

HopLore is well-loved by patrons. There’s even a HopLore club for their most dedicated customers, called the Guild of the Hop. “Our name comes from old-world terms,” King says. “Lore is basically a synonym for science, so essentially our name is Beer Science. But we like to play with that in more than just a name sometimes. The Guild of the Hop refers back to some old-world type of things.”

For an annual fee, guild members have carryout and dining discounts, and access to special releases and new and exclusive menu items.

“There’s a population that has a great deal of passion for food and beverages in general,” King says. “Having an opportunity to interact with people that have such a level of passion

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for what you’re creating is really a cool thing for me.”

It’s not just the returning customers who enjoy HopLore’s products.

“We’ve won several awards for the beer over the years, one with a national organization we won a gold there - and one with the state’s brewers guild - we won a bronze there,” King says.

To the owners of HopLore, the community means everything.

“Frankly, the people in the Leesburg and Warsaw area have been really receptive, enthusiastic, and supportive of what we’ve been trying to do,” Keith says.

Their enthusiasm has been so passionate, HopLore will be opening up a second location in Warsaw around Memorial Day. “We’re in the downtown area, in sight of the courthouse,” Keith says. “We’re really excited about that location to be in the heart of Warsaw.”

The new location will have indoor and outdoor dining,

a taproom and a large brewery.

“It will allow us to greatly increase our brewing capacity, and our storage and chilling abilities,” Keith says. “That’s just to keep up with the growth and demand that has been coming. It will allow us to branch out in wholesale sales and a lot of other avenues.”

HopLore Brewing Co. is located at 100 South Old State Road 15 in Leesburg.

Their Warsaw location will be at 307 West Market Street. For more info, call 574-4530496, email hoplore@gmail.com, and visit hoplore.com.

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GOT YOU COVERED S U P R E M E C O AT I N G S I N M I D D L E B U R Y H A N D L E S S U R FA C E S E A L E R S A N D C O V E R I N G S Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Schlabach and his brothers put a strong base and top coat on all of their work.

Gary Schlabach, co-owner of Supreme Coatings in Middlebury, firmly believes high-quality work and positive feedback from customers will always lead to repeat business.

“The coatings we put on won’t chip or peel,” Schlabach says. “They are sun resistant, and hold up very well. We also have unlimited colors on the paint chips.”

“We are just getting started, but we want people to know we do a great job on everything,” Schlabach says. “We officially began last September, and we are getting the word out. From the beginning of a job to the finish, we make sure the customers get nothing but the absolute best.”

Schlabach says there are many lake houses and pools in the area to keep the company busy.

“We can work on pool barns and areas such as washing machine walls and stairways,” Schlabach says. “We can also put the coatings on floors and do corners, as well as coatings on walls.”

Schlabach, who co-owns the business with his brothers Kevin and Lyndon, says they look at Schlabach adds that concrete surfaces typically the extent of a job first, and then get underway. receive a lot of use and harsh weather over an extended period of time, and a good coating “We do chip and seal work on houses, pools can make a big difference. and different floors,” Schlabach says. “We also put coatings on your wood, or cracks in your “You want your concrete floors and corners, concrete.” and other areas, to look as good as they can for 18 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

a long time,” Schlabach says. “Even if someone did a good job on your concrete outdoor floors before, there may be damage from the sun in the summer. Harsh winter weather can also have an impact on the concrete. There can also be stains and discoloration from weather damage or heavy use. We can put a good coating on the concrete on the floors, and on other concrete areas, that will make the surfaces last a long time.”

Schlabach says concrete floor coverings help to withstand heavy foot traffic over a long period of time.

“People also place heavy equipment and things on concrete, which can have an impact,” he says. “All of the wear and tear can cause more damage, so a good coating will make it last longer and look much better.”

Schlabach notes that concrete also absorbs water, which can also cause damage over long periods.

“If you get a lot of water or chemicals on the concrete floors, that also can cause chipping, cracking or staining,” he says. “There are also stains from chemicals, tire marks and grease.

We can make your concrete floors look cleaner and shinier, and extend the life of them.”

Schlabach says concrete floor coatings can also provide concrete surfaces with a cleaner look, and give them a nice shine.

“People spend a lot of time keeping their lake houses and pool areas looking really nice, so we can make them look even better with a nice coating,” he says.

Schlabach and his brothers are hoping word of their quality work will spread.

“We are really counting on people telling their friends about us,” Schlabach says.

Schlabach stresses that he couldn’t find a better place to live than Middlebury.

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 19

“The people in Middlebury and the surrounding areas are just really friendly,” he says. “They are wonderful people who know how to make you feel welcome. Kevin lives in Goshen and Lyndon lives in Topeka. They also enjoy living in this area, and working for great people. Our families are happy in this area too. There are also so many great shops and restaurants in Middlebury, Goshen and Topeka.”

Schlabach hopes Supreme Coatings will expand its customer base through the coming years.

“I think there is a lot of room for growth in this area, because there are so many lake houses and pools that need chip and seal work, and coatings,” he says.

For more information on Supreme Coatings, call 574-584-5660.

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Sometimes a dog can make all the difference. No one knows this better than the folks at the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN). Founded in February of 2002, the statewide nonprofit has helped restore a sense of hope and independence to two groups of people - those with disabilities and those who benefit from having a service dog, as well as the inmates who train the canines.

Though the organization also places dogs to help with diabetic and seizure alert, it focuses primarily on mobility assistance.

ICAN typically has about 60 dogs in its program at any given time. They work out of three state prisons - the Indiana Women’s Prison in Indianapolis, the Pendleton Correctional Facility, and the Correctional Industrial Facility at Pendleton.

“We’re a pretty unique program,” says Denise “Dino” Sierp, ICAN’s director of development and outreach. “There are maybe two or three programs in the country where the prison training program has a mission to rehabilitate. It’s not just a job.”

ICAN has eight paid staff members and roughly 200 volunteers who spend their time and energy ensuring that the program is a success. This includes whelpers and litter sitters (people who help the breeder dog and new puppies), as well as puppy raisers, furlough parents, and people who drive the dogs to appointments.

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When their beloved family dog passed away in the fall of 2018, Lori Steininger and her husband joined the volunteers at ICAN and furloughed dogs-in-training.

“ICAN is truly a win-win,” Steininger says. “The act of training and caring for these dogs makes such an impact on [prisoners’] mental health and future lives. On the other end of the leash, the client’s life is impacted deeply by a partner that can help that person become independent.”

THETHE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 LAKES MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2020/ thelakesmagazine.com / thelakesmagazine.com/ 21

For the first 16 weeks, the puppies go to a puppy raiser in order to socialize them and expose them to the smells, sounds and sights of the world - “everything from televisions, vacuum cleaners and dishwashers to children, men and people with funny hats,” Sierp says.

This stage helps to prevent any potential issues that can interfere with training down the road. The dogs go to the prison to learn basic and intermediate cues, and after 14 to 15 months, the training transitions to preparing the canines for client-specific tasks such as removing clothes from a dryer, opening doors, and pulling covers up in a bed.

Every six weeks the dog goes to furlough volunteers like Steininger, who reinforce the skills the dog has learned in the prison environment. They take the dogs out to parks, grocery stores, ball fields, restaurants - places they can’t go in a

prison environment - and report back to the handler about how the dogs fare.

In a non-pandemic year, the program graduates 20 to 22 canines. If they cannot be placed in this manner, ICAN tries to place them in another capacity, such as a police dog or some other kind of public-assistance dog.

As the inmates are engaged in training, they too are learning important life skills such as how to communicate and how to take criticism. Plus, the dogs teach them how to trust, grow confidence and build self-esteem. Above all, the dog, with its unconditional love, teaches forgiveness.

“The dogs heal broken spirits,” says Jillian Ashton, president of ICAN. “It’s a pretty powerful program.”

When the inmate transfers the dog to the client, it’s a magical moment.

“These families’ lives have been changed or altered from what they thought it would be,” Ashton says. “Either their disability or their incarceration made them look at the world in a different way.

Both can be very isolating.”

When the two parties come together, suddenly their history doesn’t matter.

It’s only about the future and how it now looks brighter.

“Together they find meaning through the conduit of a dog,” Ashton says. “At the end of the day, everyone gains self-worth and independence, and isn’t that what we’re all trying to gain in life? We just want to matter in the world. The dogs help us facilitate that.”

Every year the ICAN hosts the annual Wine & Wags event, their biggest fundraiser. Fundraising is crucial because the cost to train each dog is $25,000.

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“That’s a lot of kibble, vet care and training,” says Ashton, noting that ICAN provides lifetime support for their clients. “It doesn’t end when we exchange the leash over to the client.”

The Wine & Wags event, which typically attracts between 550 and 600 people, was virtual this past year due to the pandemic. Attendees still got to hear testimonials from clients, prison inmate handlers, and others who spoke on how ICAN has impacted their lives.

At the 2020 event, meteorologists Chuck Lofton and Nicole Misencik hosted. Lofton knows firsthand about the impact the ICAN can make, because his wife Mary has one of ICAN’s service dogs.

The organization recently relocated to Zionsville to provide more room for administrative staff, and for training (both two-legged and four-legged) to take place on the grounds.

“It’s doubling our space from where we were,” Ashton says.

Though its offices are located in Zionsville, the ICAN team serves people in Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, Brownsburg, and throughout central Indiana.

Ashton recalls the time when a mother came into the office several weeks after an ICAN dog had been placed with her child, and she remembers how rested the woman looked.

“I’ve been sleeping for the first time in 17 years,” the mother said. “I know the dog isn’t Lassie and can’t solve all our problems, but it has provided so much peace in our family.”

The ICAN office is located at 5100 Charles Court, Suite 100 in Zionsville.

For more info, call 317-672-3860 and visit icandog.org.

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Because of its versatility, foam can be used in any number of applications, from insulating fuel tanks in space shuttles to making a good night’s sleep possible, and from padding carpet to putting out fires. It’s also used in many types of medical equipment, which is where Brian Watkins and his team at Creative Foam Medical Systems in Bremen focus their attention.

Most of the products that they make are for diagnostic imaging machines.

“We really focus on patient comfort and patient positioning,” Watkins explains. “When you go into a hospital, it’s scary. When you’re going into an MRI, a lot of people are claustrophobic and they don’t like the loud noises. If you’re not comfortable, it just makes it worse.”

For a proper MRI diagnosis in particular, the patient’s motionlessness is vital, something that is often difficult to obtain because of the discomfort that the patient experiences while in the machine. When that is relieved, medical personnel can analyze the problem more accurately.

26 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 / thelakesmagazine.com

“There’s a higher degree of quality expected for these parts - obviously, knowing that they’re going to be used in a life-and-death situation,” says Ryan McCartney, vice president of sales.

The foam pieces are meant to promote patient comfort and safety, no matter what position they have to be in while inside the diagnostic machine.

“Throw a piece of foam here or there that’s shaped specific for a body part, and that

“The doctors can place the surface coil onto the required area and plug it into the MRI,” Watkins says. “It’s designed specifically to make a clearer image in that area.

helps the patient feel more comfortable,” Watkins says. “The doctor can diagnose what’s going on a little easier. He makes a better diagnosis, and ultimately that helps save somebody’s life.”

When a medical facility sends Creative Foam a malfunctioning coil, the factory’s engineers check and mend the wiring and electronics. Afterwards, the team can refoam and repaint it before sending it back to the customer within days.

Creative Foam also helps medical professionals by repairing MRI surface coils for individual body parts, such as leg, shoulder and head coils.

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“When the coils leave here, they look brand new,” Watkins says. “That’s something that many competitors can’t do.”

opportunity to the people here.”

The business supplies foam materials and MRI coil repair for medical facilities across the world. However, the Creative Foam team has a local focus as well.

“From the beginning of this fiscal year to 2025, we’re looking to grow sevenfold,” Watkins says. “It’s moving forward like we planned, and it’s bringing a lot of

Part of their growth strategy includes partnering with other companies. One ongoing collaboration is with T.J. Snuggles Sewing Specialties, a commercial sewing company also located in Bremen owned by Connie and Jason Laudeman.

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infighting nor drama. It’s really a great place to work.”

One key characteristic that sets them apart is the family environment within the company.

As the general manager of the factory, Watkins desires to keep it that way, especially as he is looking to hire dozens of workers throughout the next few months.

“We have really good benefits and we take really good care of our people,” Watkins says. “Everyone is so friendly. There’s no

“My goal is that when you wake up in the morning, you want to come to work,” he says.

The healthcare division of Creative Foam has four locations, two are in Bremen.

They are located at 405 North Industrial Drive and at 510 E. Second Street Learn more about the company by visiting them online at CreativeFoamMedicalSystems. com. Reach out to them by emailing info@ CreativeFoamMedicalSystems.com, or by calling 574-546-4238.

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try to do what I can to ensure a good night’s sleep. I adhere to all the standbys including vigorous exercise during the day, avoidance of too much caffeine, not eating or drinking several hours prior to bedtime, and reading a book or magazine article just before dozing off in order to get my eyes heavy. All of this works, by the way.

My problem is what I call the witching hour, which happens in the middle of the night, usually after I’ve had one full sleep cycle under my belt. In other words, after getting several hours of sleep, I wake up and my mind starts spinning. Let me assure you that the middle of the night is not the time you want to actively begin thinking, but my brain says otherwise, as every worry, anxiety, and decision I’ve made that day, week, month or year, taps at me like an annoying child pulling at my skirt.

I inevitably begin by stressing about whatever issue is bothering me the most, which, these days, tends to be the pandemic. The plethora of what-if scenarios usually keeps my brain popping for a good 30 to 60 minutes. After a while, however, my mind moves on to something else. For instance, I might spend 20 minutes dissecting a conversation I had with a colleague six months ago, or wondering what happened to my seventh-grade social studies teacher. I may second-guess my choice of bridesmaid dresses

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from decades ago or berate myself for that time I dropped my phone in the toilet. I may wrack my brain trying to come up with a word that, at the moment, escapes me, or stew about how much my car insurance will go up once my 16-year-old gets his license. Then I fly into a tailspin thinking about how I’ll never sleep again when my teenager starts driving. Then I loop back to my nightly coronavirus concerns, stressing about the

monetary cutbacks our family has sustained since the start of the pandemic. And so it goes every night.

I learned long ago to face the clock in a different direction so I don’t actually know how much sleep I’m losing each night.

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of the cold side. I even invested in a weighted blanket, as they are supposed to help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. I also invited tips from family and friends. My cousin Lisa has found that making a cup of herbal tea like passionflower helps to quiet the mind, enabling her to get some rest, as does engaging in meditation techniques while lying in bed.

All of this has helped, but I still wanted to consult an expert for professional suggestions on ways I and the rest of the world (because I know I’m not alone here) can curb insomnia. Jessica Neely, a licensed clinical social worker and counselor with Brownsburg Guidance & Counseling Center, has several tips for her clients: 1. Do a cool-down yoga routine before bed.

2. Stay off of electronics 30 to 60 minutes before bed.

deep (with your stomach raising, rather than your shoulders) helps to slow blood flow, relax your body and distract your brain.

4. Try contract-and-release exercises. Start at your toes tighten as hard as possible for 10 to 15 seconds, then slowly release the tension. Do the same moving up the body - toes, calves, thighs, bottom, etc. After getting through all areas individually, do the same tension with the entire body for 10 to 15 seconds, then slowly release. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth throughout this exercise 5. Take melatonin 10 to 15 minutes before going to bed.

6. Count backward from a high number.

7. Count forward by 3s, 7s, etc. - any number that requires more concentration than 1s, 2s, 5s, and 10s.

3. Engage in a breathing exercise while lying flat in bed. Breathe in through your nose, slowly counting to four to five. Hold it in for four to five seconds. Breathe out through your mouth, slowly counting to four or five, then hold it out for another four to five seconds. Focusing on the counting and breathing

“A life hack I learned recently is that pistachio nuts have a therapeutic amount of melatonin in them,” Neely adds. “Eating some before bed can help with falling asleep.”

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3866

PANDEMIC-PROOF VALENTINE’S DAY IDEAS

Writer / Abigail Hake Photography Provided

It’s not every year that you have to get really creative for Valentine’s Day. Usually a gift or flowers, followed by a nice meal with no kids (if you have them) and a glass of wine, is just fine and thoroughly enjoyed. This year, however, it’s a little more complicated - but just because things are a bit more complicated doesn’t mean you can’t have a great Valentine’s Day. Here are six pandemic-proof date night ideas for you and yours.

TACKLE A PROJECT

While this isn’t the most romantic thing to do, it does bring you together with your partner to tackle something you’ve been wanting to start (or finish). Maybe it’s something you needed for your home, or something to give to someone else. Either way, you’ll feel good working together and accomplishing something at the end of the night.

COOK TOGETHER

While there are a few cooking stores that are still having classes in person, lots are offering online options. If you feel good enough to head out and want to enjoy a private lesson at a shop, do it. If not, sign up for an online class and give it a go in your own kitchen.

Otherwise, order an oven-ready meal kit that you can make together, with included stepby-step instructions as well as all required ingredients.

BINGE A SERIES

A trusty go-to if you can’t figure out what to do. We suggest something completely new that’s getting rave reviews, or something with lots of nostalgia. You can easily get sucked into the old “Supermarket Sweep,” or something a bit newer like “The Office.”

Perhaps check out “Cobra Kai,” which can be binged in one evening, and has both a new and old feeling to it.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW Yelp has been great during these crazy times for offering info on events with local restaurants and crafters. If you can’t find anything local, YouTube is always a good place to go to learn a new trade. Maybe try DJ spinning lessons or brewing your own

beer. Pick something you both want to learn more about, and dive right in.

GO FOR A WALK OR RUN

Another simple yet perfect way to spend time together is a walk, or if you are feeling up to it, a run. Use the time to talk about how you hope the new year will go, or just catch up a bit.

BOOK A PRIVATE LESSON

Pastries would be a perfect go-to for this one, but you can probably find a class for just about anything. Macarons or chocolate sound delish, and would be fun to make and take. Art lessons are another great option too. If you aren’t feeling that great about going out because of COVID, private lessons provide a great way to get out with minimal contact.

RENT A MOVIE THEATER Yes, you can do this! AMC Theatres is doing this, and offering private theater rentals starting at $99. It’s pretty cool to have the entire theater to yourself. Pick something from their library of movies like “Love Actually,” and you’ll have a really lovely evening. They might even have drink specials for you too.

CHECK INTO A HOTEL

Lastly, you can always book a room at a local hotel. Maybe try that new boutique hotel you’ve had your eye on, and order room service. Hotels are still open but generally at a much lower capacity, so make sure to book early. Wherever you decide, pick somewhere you can enjoy and treat yourselves a bit.

While times are still a little off, that doesn’t mean you can’t still make time for each other. Everyone needs a little pick-me-up, and Valentine’s Day might just be the perfect time for that. Whether you end up ordering sushi and just watching a movie with the family, or you actually get to partake in a night away, remember - love is all you need.

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Closed on Mondays & Sundays

FROM OUR KITCHEN TO YOURS

TWISTED HOT CHOCOLATE Writer & Photographer / Angela Cornell

Most people have a favorite hot drink. For many people, it’s black coffee. Others would also say coffee but with cream and sugar. A lot of people would say that tea is a staple for life. Then again, some prefer something harder, like hot toddies or mulled wine.

And then there’s hot chocolate. Sweet, rich, delicious hot chocolate.

Here at New Kitchen Store, we have Silly Cow Farms’ hot cocoa mix, which is a fantastic way to make a quick cup of afternoon cheer. However, you can also make it from scratch. And that’s the beauty of this drink — there are so many different ways to make it.

Hot chocolate can be extra sweet or strong and dark, depending on how you make it.

You could add a shot of coffee to make the chocolate flavor more intense or a couple of shots to make it a mocha.

But really, it’s the seasonings that really develop the character of the beverage. Like pumpkin spice, for instance. A ¼ teaspoon of our pumpkin spice blend frothed into your hot cocoa will transport you to the crisp days of autumn with every sip.

THETHE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 LAKES MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2020/ thelakesmagazine.com / thelakesmagazine.com/ 41

Or for a spicy kick, add a dash of cinnamon and a pinch of crushed cayenne or chili powder to your mug of chocolatey goodness.

You know those chocolate orange balls you can only find around Christmas? Well, here’s a way to recreate that delicious candy in your mug all year round. If you’re making hot chocolate from scratch, add some orange juice powder to the pot after the sugar and cocoa powder. If you prefer using a hot cocoa mix, stir in the orange juice powder right before drinking it.

Gingerbread hot chocolate is also delicious.

Right before pouring the cocoa into your mug, stir in a couple dashes of ginger and nutmeg. This combines the cozy warmth of hot chocolate with a spicy, earthy, citrusy personality. There’s no way to go wrong there!

I’ll tell you a secret … you can even make hot chocolate into a healthy treat. No really!

Find a from-scratch recipe that you like, then substitute local honey for the sugar and use real, unsweetened cocoa powder (which, by the way, is chocked full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals).

If you’re trying to avoid dairy, then use coconut or almond milk instead. You can even include an antioxidant-rich additive like a spoonful of maple syrup or molasses.

Or if you want to go the extra mile, buy a frother from us to make your hot chocolate extra creamy and airy. We also have specialty milk heating pans that will help you get your hot chocolate to the perfect temperature.

However you like your cocoa, don’t forget to add the whipped cream on top and garnish with cocoa mix or some of the spices you added to your cup. When you do, take a picture of it and send it to us! We’d love to see it.

New Kitchen Store is the largest kitchen supplies store in Michiana! Come visit us at 330 Liberty St., Walkerton. For more information, call 574-586-2745 or check out our website at newkitchenstore.com.

42 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 / thelakesmagazine.com

NOW CARRYING BLACK RIFLE COFFEE

574-586-2745 | NewKitchenStore.com | 330 Liberty Street Walkerton, IN 46574

TRADITIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE 1/3 C. UNSWEETENED COCOA POWDER 1/2 C. WHITE SUGAR 1/2 C. WATER 3 C. MILK 1/4 TSP. VANILLA COMBINE WATER, SUGAR, AND POWDER IN A SMALL SAUCEPAN OVER LOW HEAT. ADD MILK, STIR CONSTANTLY UNTIL IT BEGINS TO FROTH. USING A FROTHER, STIR FOR 2-3 MINUTES OR UNTIL BUBBLY. ADD VANILLA AND/OR ANY OTHER SPICES YOU WANT. THETHE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 LAKES MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2020/ thelakesmagazine.com / thelakesmagazine.com/ 43

Custom-Built Cabinets & Furniture “There is No Simple Solutions... Only Intelligent Choices”

Kitchen Cabinets Bedroom Suites • China Hutches Bathroom Vanities • Curios & Custom Built Furniture 65438 SR 13 | Millersburg Ph. 574-642-9940 Fax 574-642-3602

Specializing in Interior & Exterior Concrete Pole Barns • Additions • Metal Roofing Remodeling • Commercial Roofing

Spray Polyurethane Foam | Attic Upgrades Wall Retrofits | Pole Barn Insulation New Residential Construction and Remodel On Top of Drywall | Tanks and Vessels

574-382-0162 www.dlhconcreteconstruction.com

Existing Home Insulation Upgrade

(260)705-7477 • www.theinsulationguys.net 325 Monticello Road | Rochester

44 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2021 / thelakesmagazine.com

Honeyville Concrete, LLC For Flat Work Contact: Darin Yoder 574 - 903 - 9711

Committed to Quality & Customer Service • New Sales • Custom Builds • Restorations • Product & Parts Sales Nate & Sara Miller

(260)-768-8055 7040 W 200 S Topeka, IN 46571

Garages ∙ Pole Barns Barnyard ∙ Sidewalk Patio ∙ Driveways Shops Owners: Harley & Inez Yoder 8770 W 400 S ∙ Topeka, IN 46571 260 - 593 - 3769

Give the Gift of Dutch Country

Great Individual Items for the Holidays: Christmas Jam, Chocolate Cherry Jelly Beans, Peppermint Fudge, Holiday Candies and Snacks, Locally-Made Crafts, Noodle Kit Gift Bags, 30 Flavors of Jams, 28 Varieties of Salsa

AND MUCH MORE!

Our gift baskets and boxes are filled with the finest quality products, most made locally! We ship from our store to anywhere in the USA. Call now to order!

11351 County Rd 16, Middlebury, IN • 574-825-3594 • Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30, Sat 8:30-5 TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 45

Auto • Home • Life • Business

State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams.

(574) 457-4807 • 1101 S Huntington St Ste 2, PO Box 65 • Syracuse www.dan4insurance.com • dan@dan4insurance.com

Family Restaurant

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0950 N 850 W Shipshewana, IN 46565 Faron & Jose Schlabach……..260-350-0078 950 N 850 W Shipshewana, IN 46565

(574) 528-5000 1009 S Huntington St | Syracuse

46 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

FEEL THE HEAT M I L L E R STOV E & F I R E P L AC E H E L P S C R E AT E C O Z Y M O M E N T S Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Many people find January to be the most depressing month of the year - and little wonder. The holidays are over, the

weather is rarely better than gloomy, and often it’s bitterly cold. One way to beat such winter blues is to cozy up in front of a heart-warming fire with friends and family.

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 47

For Ernie Miller, owner of Miller Stove & Fireplace near Bremen, creating those happy moments is the best part of his job. “I get the satisfaction of having someone set up with a brand new fireplace, and

“ I A P P R E C I AT E T H E C O M M U N I T Y. I T H I N K W E H AV E A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY IN THIS AREA. I APP R E C I AT E T H AT, AND ALL OUR C U S TO M E R S A N D THE SUPPORT WE’VE HAD THROUGHOUT T H E Y E A R S .”

-ERNIE MILLER

just sitting around with the family and enjoying it,” Miller says. “That and dealing with the customers and the people. There’s a lot of satisfaction in doing something that you know benefits the community, benefits the people, and hopefully saves them money and lasts their lifetime.”

Although Miller’s heart for his customers has never changed, the face of his business has. In 1989 Miller started a business that delivered anthracite coal, which is the most energy-dense coal in existence.

“I always was interested in heating and stoves and stuff like that,” he says. “At the time I bought my first Franco Belge stove and I was pretty interested in that - very intrigued with it.”

4894 N BALDWIN RD, NORTH WEBSTER, IN

DAVIDSENSPIERSERVICE.COM • 574-834-1670 48 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

After speaking with a coal company representative, Miller decided to sell the heat source locally.

“That’s how we got started,” he says.

“Then people needed stoves, so we started selling stoves. Then we got so busy with our stoves that within eight or ten years, we sold the coal part of our business and just went to selling stoves and fireplaces.”

Miller and his team always strive to care for the needs of their customers.

YOU DREAM IT. WE BUILD IT. IT’S THAT SIMPLE. Fine Custom Cabinetry for Your Kitchen, Bath or Office

“One of the most important things we ask is, ‘What is the customer needing?’,” Miller says. “Oftentimes they might be replacing something they already have. We try to get an idea of what the customer’s thinking, and try to satisfy those needs.”

Once they know the customer’s desires, Miller and his team deliver and install their products along with customized stonework and masonry to accent their stoves and fireplaces.

They also go one step further, servicing their customers’ fireplaces and stoves.

The business offers a wide variety of stoves and fireplaces, including those that burn wood, gas, pellet and coal, to a customer base that spans from Valparaiso to Fort Wayne and as far north as southern Michigan.

“I appreciate the community,” Miller says. “I think we have a wonderful opportunity in this area. I appreciate that, and all our

CALL TO SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE!

Lee & Carolyn Eash 4922 W 1100 N | Ligonier, IN 46767 Ph: 260.593.0883 | Fax: 260.593.0884 TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 49

customers and the support we’ve had throughout the years.”

Miller Stove & Fireplace is an Amishowned and operated establishment located at 2570 Beech Road in Bremen.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more information call 574-773-2686.

Come See Our Shed Selection

Call About Our Display Discounts on Playsets Don’t forget about these other great departments Pumpkin Patch offers!

Bedroom | Living Room | Dining Room | Outdoor

10532 US 20, Middlebury, Indiana 46540 574-825-3312 www.pumpkinpatchmarket.com 50 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

Four Woods Shades & Blinds Graber & Rollese Roller Shades & Shutters

Baldwin And Company

Larry & Wilbur Yoder Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm M-F Saturday By Appointment 8430 W. 500 S., Topeka, IN 46571 260-593-2553 x1

Installation Available 814 Main Street Rochester, IN 46975

Roller Shade | Roman Shades | Cellular Pleated | Wood Blinds | Vinyl Blinds Vertical Blinds | Shutters | Motorized Lift

Now Available

Free Subscriptions Residents and business owners in any of the Kentucky communities being served by the Towne Post Network can now subscribe to our monthly print magazines for FREE! While we try to mail to as many people as possible, some are left out due to their proximity, demographics, or most recently COVID-19 restrictions on public racks.

Now, anyone who wants our monthly print magazines can get them.

Visit: TownePost.com/subscriptions Print + Digital Magazine Subscriptions = FREE TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 51

• Cookies • Pies • Breads • Sweet Rolls • Cakes Hours: Tuesday - Friday 5am-4pm Saturday 5am-2pm Ph: 574-825-7918 | Fax: 574-825-0209 59162 CR 43 Middlebury, IN 46540

MARWAY WELDING, LLC GENERAL WELDING & STEEL FABRICATING OUTDOOR WOODBURNERS & ACCESSORIES

(574) 773-5477 | 27097 CR 50 NAPPANEE, IN 46550 52 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

INTERESTING TWIST Perfect Twist Pretzels Offers Memorable Tastes Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owner Brandon Esh

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 53

S

ometimes there is nothing better than sinking your teeth into a warm, delicious pretzel.

Making pretzels memorable takes time and patience. Just ask Brandon Esh, owner of Perfect Twist Pretzels on East Market Street in Nappanee. Esh has gone out of his way to give his customers a pretzel to remember, and his commitment to excellence has been rewarded with faithful fans.

“We first opened September 9, 2018, but I had started working on this shop idea in March of that year,” Esh says. “I was working in an RV factory from 4 a.m. to noon, and gradually getting plans together to open a pretzel shop even though I didn’t have a name. It wasn’t until my sister started her (job) training in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, that she accidentally came up with the name Perfect Twist Pretzels.”

Esh isn’t afraid of working hard to meet his goals.

“I had worked for my uncle at Weaver Furniture Barn for a few months before I started at a factory when I was 15 years old,” Esh says. “I think that’s what ultimately motivated me to begin plans for a business at 19 years old.”

Esh notes that he has big goals.

“I haven’t found my secret to success yet, but my plan is to bring forth the best quality products available,” Esh says.

Customers already have their favorites.

“With nothing masking the flavor of our freshly baked dough, our original pretzel is definitely the customer favorite, but the sausage and cheese pretzel and the chicken bacon ranch pockets are pretty heavy hitters as well,” Esh says. “My favorite item is the cinnamon and sugar pretzel bites because when they are fresh they seem to melt in your available as pretzel bites,” Esh says. mouth.”

“We also have four different pretzel pockets including chicken bacon ranch, pepperoni The soft pretzels and pretzel bites have been pizza, sausage and cheese, and ham and very popular. cheese. The pretzel pockets are meats and cheeses wrapped in soft pretzel dough.”

“We have four different flavors of soft pretzels, and all soft pretzel flavors are 54 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

Esh has received a lot of compliments.

“Our recipe is unique in itself,” Esh says. “We feel we have the perfect amount of sweetness so that you taste it, but it still tastes like a soft pretzel.”

Esh says he loves Nappanee.

“There’s a reason everyone wants to live in Nappanee, he says. “It’s small enough to be cozy but large enough to keep a tourist busy for a long weekend. We have a lot of one-of-a-kind little shops like ours that really complete the setting for a perfect hometown.”

Esh also values the family atmosphere.

“One thing I have learned is that nobody makes it on their own, and I couldn’t have made it that first month without my family,” Esh says. “They continue to help me in ways I don’t always appreciate as much as I should. I appreciate this opportunity God has given me and my family to become contributors to Nappanee’s success.”

Perfect Twist Pretzels is located at 401 East Market Street in Nappanee. Call 574-2481715 or visit perfecttwistpretzels.com for more info.

FRI & SAT Broasted Chicken

FRIDAY Prime Rib

• Homemade Potato Salad & Pasta salad • Homemade Soups • Fresh Made Pies Daily • Ice cream

THURSDAY Ribs

Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Coming Soon!

Mon - Thur 6am to 7pm Fri & Sat 6am to 8pm

(260) 593-2988 414 E LAKE ST | TOPEKA, IN 46571

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 55

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427 CHEVY WAY WARSAW IN 46582 LAKESIDECHEVY.COM • (574) 269-1666

Checkerberry RENTAL LLC

Now offering telescoping pole saw rental!

62644 County Road ∙ 37 Goshen, IN 46528 Lyndon Yoder | 574-642-0236

102 S. Main St, Middlebury, IN 46540 574-849-6955 Delivery Available:

6x12 Trailer $50 ∙ Lawn Roller $30 ∙ Tractor $150 BCS w/Plow $60 ∙ Fertilizer $50 ∙ Power Washer $60 • Lawn Installation Equipment • Fertilizer / Spreader • Endure Grass Seed • Concrete Cutting Saw • Drain Cleaning Hose • Large Chainsaw • BCS with Plow for Raised Garden Beds • Stump Grinder (coming soon)!

We Deliver and Call for Availability 56 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

ALIVE! AQUAPONICS Local Couple Grows Fresh Produce Through a Unique Process New and Pre-owned Sales

Crist, Inc., in Nappanee, IN, is the area’s leading heating and cooling specialist serving Nappanee and surrounding areas specializing in heating, air conditioning, sump pumps, water softener repairs, water heaters and more. For all your heating and cooling needs, contact Crist, Inc. in Nappanee today!

Outdoor Power Equpiment Sales & Service Complete Small Engine Repair Trade-Ins Accepted | Pickup & Delivery

Jonas Yoder, Owner

11400 N. 350 W. Mon-Fri 7:00-4:00 Ligonier, IN 46767 Sat 7:00-11:30

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 57

VM: 250-593-2792 Fx:260-593-2791

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Most people don’t think of fish as a farmer’s friend, but Lamar Chupp and his wife, Kristine do. The aquatic creatures are an essential component in the practice of aquaponics, the method Chupp uses to produce 400 to 500 heads of leafy greens per week.

The fish raised in his greenhouse not only work for him in supplying nutrients needed to grow lettuce, but they also end up on the tables of families and friends.

GARDEN CENTER | LANDSCAPES | TURF MANAGEMENT | HARDSCAPE

“I first heard about aquaponics 10 years ago when I was a tour guide in Colorado,” Chupp says. “One night I got in a conversation with some college students who were there for white water rafting. They were talking about how an aquaponic system only uses 10% of the water that traditional soil farming does and that it strikes a perfect balance through the symbiotic relationship of the fish and produce.

“I was captivated,” he adds. “I thought I’d really like to try it especially since I only owned four acres of land and didn’t have a lot of room to conventionally farm. Eventually, I contacted Purdue University for help and attended a seminar in Kokomo where I learned from the experts.”

260-563-3546 4170 W. 200 N. Wabash, IN 46992 58 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

After gathering the knowledge, Chupp assembled his aquaponic system. First, he built a 30 by 96-foot greenhouse.

Then, some commercial parts were ordered, but most of the operation was built from scratch.

“On one side of the greenhouse, there are four fish tanks. The Blue Tilapia in each tank are in different stages, from fingerling (finger-sized) to two pounds.

We harvest 100 mature fish every month,” Chupp says. “The water the fish are raised in is filtered. The ammonia in it is converted to nitrogen before being pumped over to the raised lettuce beds on the other side of the greenhouse. The resulting water is sanitary, food-safe and full of nutrition.”

Each of the three growing tank/beds are lined with vinyl food-grade plastic.

Floating on top of the water are foam rafts that house 15 heads of lettuce. The plants start as seeds in peat plugs before being placed in the rafts where their roots dangle down into the water.

“We plant and harvest every Wednesday in a six-week cycle,” Chupp adds. “We grow both red and green leaf varieties

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0330 E 200S • LaGrange, IN 46761 260-499-3051 • fax 260-499-3082 TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 59

of romaine, butterhead, bok choy, swiss chard and kale. Our biggest seller is Batavia. It is crunchy, sweet and sometimes known as French crisp.”

At the present time, produce raised

by Alive! Aquaponics is sold in two area shops and the Nappanee Farmers Market. Woodland Variety Store, located at 4133 East County Line Road in Bremen, is owned by the Chupps and sells local produce as well as bulk foods.

Maple City Market is in Goshen at 314 South Main Street.

When asked about the future of Alive!

Aquaponics, Chupp says, “We aren’t quite at capacity yet, but we’d like to sell fish in the future. And, we’d like to find restaurants to sell our produce to.”

Contact Alive! Aquaponics at 574-6462054 or visit them at 10388 N 900 W in Nappanee.

Rock Bottom Resale Rock Bottom Resale is a resale shop with a huge variety of new and used items from video games to bed and bath and everything in between including furniture, bent and dent food and snacks, and much more!

We guarantee everything to work even the used products we sell. Come see us for great products at discounted prices!

10661 CR 32 Middlebury, IN 46540 nate.rockbottomresale@gmail.com 574-312-5661

11875 N. State Road 13, Syracuse, IN 46567 www.onecallwater.com

60 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

Homeland Sales Groceries ∙ Bulk Food ∙ Gifts

10945 W. 400 S. Millersburg, IN 46543

Sam & Alice Lambright 260-593-2254 Mon- Fri: 8:00-4:30 Sat: 8:00-12:00

Brute Force Firewood Processor Rentals & Sales

1 Day $350 2 Day $650 Week $1550

Also Available: Vermeer SC362 Stump Grinder 28-ton Vertical/ Horizontal Log Splitter

Clean machine, all fluids full upon return Delivery available, price per mile

260-463-3086 1860 N St. Rd 9 | LaGrange IN 46761

Mini Pontoons & Paddle Boats 511 S. Main St., Middlebury, IN 574-825-0900 | www.cargo-plus.com

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24/7 Boat Ramp for $5 fee

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260-768-3241 x1 Our newest creation- sliding barn door window shades.

Trained by the Etchwood Company to Install Etchwood Products. We install any Etchwood products including: • Fireplace mantels • Beams & floating shelves • Family room decor

• Sliding barn doors

(interior and exterior)

• Accent walls • Wainscot

• Window casings • Gazebos

We also install fireplace stonework.

Talk to us about ordering and installing your next Etchwood Project.

62 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com

NORTHERN INDIANA’S FLEET SPECIALISTS ALL MAKES AND MODELS • SERVICES INCLUDE FOREIGN & DOMESTIC CARS & TRUCK

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS!

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE AND TRUCK REPAIR OIL CHANGES

WE CAN TAKE CARE OF ALL OF YOUR ALIGNMENT NEEDS, FROM HEAVY TRUCKS AND BUSES, TO YOUR EVERYDAY AUTOMOBILES!

We install Jasper Engines & Transmissions

FACTORY SCEDULED MAINTENANCE FRIENDLY SERVICE ADVISORS

CALL TODAY OR CONVENIENTLY SCHEDULE ONLINE AT

TIRES & WHEELS

WWW.MASTSERVICECENTER.NET

BRAKE SERVICE PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTIONS

(574) 907-0040

8608 North State Road 19 Etna Green, IN 46524 Mon - Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

TheLakesMagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2021 / THE LAKES / 63

Custom Sheds Plus VARIETY OF COLORS AVAILABLE FOR BUILDINGS, ROOF, AND TRIM CUSTOM ORDERS COMPLETED TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS

• MINI BARNS

• SKYLIGHTS

• GARDEN SHEDS

• INSULATION

• MINI LOG CABINS

• WINDOWS

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• GAS LINES

• RAMPS

• RUSTIC TIMBER FRAMING

• ROUGHED IN PLUMBING

• ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

13836 CR 48, SYRACUSE, IN • (260)215-3988 64 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2021 / TheLakesMagazine.com