The Lakes East Magazine April 2024

So Sweet

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JOHN

PUBLISHERS

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DARCIE DODDS SCHOTT JUBILEE EDGELL

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When you walk into Gathered in Topeka, you immediately feel like you are at home.

The comfortable atmosphere and low prices are an incentive to shop there often. The bargains are unbeatable. Families can also stretch their budgets and get some great deals.

Gathered has featured a sign in their store that reads, “Grateful for small things, big things, and everything in between.” The sign is also a nice summation of the items offered in the store.

Gathered began as a small business, but grew into something bigger to help the community. Carol Wingard, who co-owns Gathered with her husband, Kenny, says the business got started as a pop-up shop in their basement.

“We were established in 2021,” she says. “We like to try and be a bright spot in a

person’s day if they visit our store. My passion has always been the thrill of the hunt for deals, and when I opened my little store, I was able to share those deals with others. That is how I got the name Gathered, because I tend to gather things.”

Gathered offers high-quality products at a great price.

“We really just wanted to be a community service, and this is something we can do as a family,” Wingard says. “We started out by getting truckloads of Target overstock, and then gradually started to fill in gaps in our inventory by ordering gift items.”

When you walk into Gathered, you can see a wide variety of merchandise including housewares, apparel, toys, and other items to choose from. The store also has highquality furniture.

Gathered carries a lot of unique kitchen and decor items, as well as a selection of baby

needs. When it comes to clothing, Gathered specializes in sweaters, and they have everything from socks to swimwear. They also have a selection of toys ranging from Target items to unique dolls and books.

Gathered has an inventory that changes daily.

Their most popular category of merchandise is probably home decor and baby items, although they also carry a lot of closeout furniture including beds, dressers, credenzas and stands.

Gathered also offers purses, handbags, baskets, health and beauty products, shoes, fabric, bedding, and holiday decor.

“The staff are always stocking our shelves with new items,” Wingard says. “We also have a clearance section with items that are stocked and ready to go.”

Gathered also has a nice area in the store

that features their high-quality cabinets.

Gathered is also a dealer for Rock Run cabinets, and they have a showroom in their store. The cabinets at the store are made from aluminum and are then powder coated in 12 different colors. The cabinets are expertly hand crafted. They do not rust, warp or mold, and are perfect for everything from outdoor kitchens to shops, bathrooms and regular kitchens. They have soft-closing doors and drawers. These cabinets are easy to clean, which makes them very family friendly.

Gathered also offers orders for cabinets.

Gathered serves several areas including LaGrange, Elkhart, Kosciusko and Noble counties.

Busy shoppers can also stop and have a cup of coffee at the Gathered Coffee Company in the back of the store.

The Gathered Coffee Company employees make lattes and frappés, and also serve various sandwiches and wraps. They also stock cinnamon rolls and homemade bread made with crushed wheat flour. These can also be ordered if you want a large amount. The coffee drinks include Raspberry Mocha Latte, Sweetheart Latte, and Chocolate Covered Strawberry Hot Chocolate, among others.

Gathered Coffee Company has also featured macaroons and other sweet treats. They also

sell coffee mugs and other items.

“Kenny and I both have a love for coffee, and we discovered Guatemala coffee grown in the mountains for a truly unique taste,” Wingard says. “I’ve also always loved the feeling of a coffee shop, with the cozy vibe that adds something special to your day.”

Visit Gathered at 102 North Main Street in Topeka. Call them at 260-585-2907, visit gatheredtopeka.com, and email gathered2020@gmail.com.

Some might say that a simple phone call changed the course of Wakarusa history, undoubtedly for the better.

As the story goes, an interesting query from a somewhat misguided newspaper reporter set into motion a chain of events that resulted in the creation of the Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival. And now, more than 50 years since its founding, the festival has become one of the most anticipated events in the state of Indiana, serving as a harbinger for the spring season and a salute to one of the community’s most beloved traditions. The sweetest sort of tribute, so to speak.

In 1968, what was then known as the Wakarusa Chamber of Progress received an incoming request from a media representative that caused a fair bit of confusion. The caller wanted to know when the community was going to host its upcoming festival. But there was a slight problem. To the best of everyone’s knowledge, there was no such event being

planned, and to this day no one seems to know how such a rumor ever circulated.

Once the town leaders had their chuckle over the miscommunication, they were suddenly seized by a thought. The idea of creating a festival wasn’t such a ludicrous prospect at all. A committee was subsequently formed, discussions were held, and in the spring of 1969 Wakarusa presented its first Maple Syrup Festival. The abundance of maple trees surrounding and within the little town, as well as the willingness of folks to share their sap cultivations, led to an easy choice for a theme, and elevated the treat into a perennially celebrated condiment. At that time the festival was a simple street affair, situated in an open lot where the current Town Hall is located. There were a few exhibits and demonstrations, antiques for sale, and of course a proliferation of maple goodies. For many guests, it was their very first opportunity to witness the precise and intricate process of creating maple syrup.

For many years, the Maple Syrup Festival took place in March, which was an intentional decision to align with the peak of the sap run. Eventually the festival was moved to the final weekend in April, to accommodate better weather conditions. It has grown significantly in both scope and size over the past 55 years, with approximately 14,000 visitors attending the 2023 event, according to Todd Scheets, who has served as the festival chairman for the past 24 years. No longer relegated to a corner attraction, the festival is a sprawling spectacle of food, crafts, carnival rides, music, and just about anything else in between.

This year’s Maple Syrup Festival will take place on April 26, 27 and 28. Among the highly anticipated performers slated to appear is The 1985, featuring cover renditions of many fun and familiar retro tunes. Also new this year will be a pickleball tournament, open to those who have developed an affinity for the increasingly popular sport. Many of the longtime favorites will once again be offered, including the free, freshly popped kettle corn, the smorgasbord of food options, lots of music and entertainment, arts and crafts, and the Saturday morning parade. There will also be a shuttle to transport folks to the Wakarusa Historical Museum, which will be hosting an encampment from the Indiana 7th Light Artillery Civil War re-enactment group, more food, museum tours, and homespun musical selections from local bands.

So what does it take to keep the festival running as smoothly as the sap that inspires it? “When I took over the Maple Syrup Festival, the board was only five people,”

Scheets recalls. “Today the festival has grown to the point that we now have a board of 17 to 20 people, and there are three chairpeople overseeing the entire festival.”

While Scheets does lament the loss of some festival features such as the selection of grand marshals to lead the parades, certain contests and competitions, and antique vendors, he is excited for the potential of festival growth. He says his wish list includes “bigger live animal acts, and more high-tech interactive stuff for kids.”

As to the longevity of the festival itself, Scheets attributes it to “the ability to adapt and change throughout the years, despite date changes and nasty weather. By moving the festival into April from March and adding another day, we allowed more people to come in warmer weather. All of this helped grow the festival into what it is today.”

“As long as the festival adds new activities and adapts to a changing world and

technology, it will grow,” he adds.

“Commercial vendors will change, food vendors will change and entertainment will change, but as long as we have our syrup suppliers, the heart of the Maple Syrup Festival will stay the same.”

To stay apprised of schedules and events, visit the Wakarusa Chamber of Commerce website at wakarusachamber.com, or follow along on Facebook @WakyMapleSyrup.

Fishing in LaGrange and Kosciusko counties offers anglers a diverse array of opportunities to reel in their next big catch. These two counties are situated in the northern region of Indiana, known for its numerous lakes, reservoirs and rivers, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels.

One of the most popular fishing spots in LaGrange County is the pristine waters of Oliver Lake. This 511-acre lake boasts excellent populations of bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish, providing anglers with plenty of action throughout the year. Whether you prefer casting from the shore or trolling from a boat, Oliver Lake offers ample opportunities to hook into some trophy-sized fish.

Nearby, Dallas Lake is another favorite among local anglers. Covering over 200 acres, this picturesque lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike and walleye. Anglers

can fish from the pier, shore, or launch their boat from the public access ramp for a day of angling adventure.

In Kosciusko County, the crown jewel of fishing destinations is undoubtedly Lake Wawasee. As Indiana’s largest natural lake, spanning over 3,000 acres, Lake Wawasee offers anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities. From bass and bluegill to muskie and crappie, the lake is teeming with fish waiting to be caught. Additionally, the lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year, attracting anglers from far and wide to test their skills against the area’s top competitors.

For those seeking a more secluded fishing experience, the Tippecanoe River provides excellent fishing opportunities in Kosciusko County. This scenic river winds its way through lush forests and meadows, offering anglers a tranquil setting to cast their lines. Smallmouth bass, channel catfish and bluegill are commonly found in the river’s

waters, providing anglers with a chance to reel in some impressive catches while enjoying the beauty of nature.

In addition to these prominent fishing destinations, both Lagrange and Kosciusko counties are home to numerous smaller lakes, ponds and streams that offer excellent fishing opportunities. From hidden gems tucked away in the countryside to wellknown hotspots frequented by locals, there’s no shortage of places to wet a line in these Indiana counties.

When it comes to fishing in LaGrange and

Kosciusko counties, anglers have a variety of techniques at their disposal. Whether you prefer casting with artificial lures, trolling with live bait or fly fishing in a secluded stream, there’s something for everyone in these diverse fishing waters.

For those new to the sport, local bait shops and tackle stores are a valuable resource for information on the best fishing spots, techniques and gear recommendations.

Additionally, fishing guides and charters are available for those looking to maximize their chances of success and learn from

experienced anglers who know the waters like the back of their hand.

Of course, no fishing trip would be complete without taking proper precautions to ensure the health and safety of both yourself and the fish. Always make sure to obtain the necessary fishing licenses and permits before heading out on the water, and practice catch-and-release whenever possible to help conserve fish populations for future generations of anglers to enjoy.

Windows

Doors

Windows

Doors

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Aaron Stover Group Leader; Paul Elvidge Pier Supervisor; Evey Lockhart Pier Supervisor; David Davidsen Owner; Shanna Davidsen General Manager

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Within seconds of entering a particular North Webster business, guests are quite likely to be greeted by David Davidsen, whose breezy and casual manner is a reflection of the lake ambience he so dearly loves. The conversations that follow make it starkly evident that Davidsen is a man among the fortunate few who have been able to parlay that fondness and wisdom into a passion for an enduring career.

Those reasons, and so much more, speak to the success of the business that bears his name. Davidsen’s Pier Service and Sales has become a reputable resource for accents and amenities, to fully embrace life along Kosciusko County’s scenic lakeshores.

Launched in 1999, Davidsen’s is an easy drive along State Road 13, where folks are invited to imagine how they can transform their modest shorelines into spectacular showcases. The establishment, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is the place to go to find

premium supplies, equipment and services for docks, boat lifts, shading solutions and parts. With a talented team of installation experts and consultants, there is a definite sense of camaraderie present, a notion that Davidsen does not take for granted.

Davidsen’s wife, Shanna, works alongside her husband in an administrative capacity. Davidsen’s sensibilities have not strayed far from somewhat humble beginnings in realizing his calling. While his jovial nature is a definite asset, perhaps even more impressive is his knowledge for the profession and devotion to his customers. It all started, he recalls, when he volunteered to “help out a buddy with a project. The next thing we knew, we started working on 50, 60, 100 piers, and things just kind of took off from there. Some of the older gentlemen I met mentored me and taught me the right way to do things. We’re all about respect and honesty, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get the job done.”

One of the most popular product lines Davidsen’s offers is the DockDeck system. The decking is created with the look of woodgrain, but created with 100% vinyl planks. The material is crafted with a maintenance-free concept, with UV protection, slip-resistant patterns and features that ensure ease of installation. It’s an ideal option for those who see the potential in creating a patio setting with their docks, using the enhanced space as a kind of extension to their homes.

The business also specializes in boat lifts for watercraft of many sizes. Davidsen’s is the only dealership in northern Indiana to carry the FLOE line of products - all-aluminum lifts accented with stainless steel hardware. Additional collections include ShoreStation, Atlas, and Maxx jet ski lifts.

Davidsen doesn’t have a specific secret or reason for his growth and formidable reputation. His strategies are simple and straightforward. He prefers to keep his

Shanna Davidsen General Manager & David Davidsen Owner

customer base local, across Kosciusko County, and he’s committed to integrity and principles.

“I really don’t have to advertise much,” he says. “It’s mostly word of mouth. I can land as much business as I want just by talking to the customers, and listening to what they have to say. I don’t ever pressure anyone to buy anything. I ask them, ‘How can I make your lake experience better?’ and maybe 70% of them, we’re able to close a deal.”

Davidsen adds that there really isn’t an off season for the company, as they are equipped to help install and remove piers and other related items at virtually any time of year. Already, he says, folks are clamoring to be among the first ones to get their piers ready for the water this year. He estimates that the staff handles approximately 6,400 sections of piers and 680 boat lifts in a season. He also takes pride in offering a price-match guarantee on his inventory. More often than not, he notes, one-time

Brighton | Kendra Scott

Nora Fleming | Happy Everything

Clara Sunwoo | Spartina

Ambre | Hobo | Latico

Lysse | CapriBlue

625 Main

guests eventually become repeat patrons.

“We’ve gotten very lucky,” he says. “We’ve had customers bring us dinners, and they bring us cookies. We like to bring smiles to our customers’ faces.”

As for what the future holds for Davidsen’s, there don’t appear to be any drastic changes in the offing, although Davidsen says he might consider purchasing some additional property at some point in time. “We’re having a good season,” he says. “We have a lot of product and a great team. Things are good. I’m right where I want to be.”

Davidsen’s Pier Service and Sales is located at 4894 North Baldwin Road North, in North Webster. They have a detailed website at davidsenspierservice.com, and they can be reached via phone at 574-834-1670. Also email contact@davidsenspierservice.com to schedule an appointment.

Open: TuesdayFriday: 10-6 Saturday: 10-3

Aaron Stover Group Leader

The Lakehouse Grille has been a central figure on Lakeshore Drive in Culver for more than a dozen years. Friday night karaoke and a diverse full menu are longtime favorites of Culver residents and visitors alike.

“We pride ourselves on making everything from scratch and serving an audience with diverse palates and desires, whether they are dressed up for a golden anniversary celebration or in flip-flops off the lake,” says Owner Mark Damore Jr.

Damore is always looking for ways to draw more people to the town he also calls home with his wife, Dana, and their 6-year-old son, Liam. Damore notes the unique collaborative nature among other business owners in Culver. “The healthier the town of Culver is for all of us business owners and patrons, the better it is for everyone who lives here and visits Culver,” he says.

BRINGING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE

FRESH MENU ADDITIONS AND A TASTE FOR COMMUNITY

KEEP THINGS COOKING AT THE LAKEHOUSE GRILLE IN CULVER Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott

Chef Mo -Sushi Chef

Recently, Damore and a nearby shop owner discovered a win-win for a new employee, who happens to be the star of a newly launched menu feature that Damore anticipates will attract a greater audience to Culver - sushi, with a focus on Japanese cuisine priorities and philosophy of seasonal, simple and sublime.

Sushi Chef Alex Mozer, or, as locals know her, Chef Mo, is fresh from a month-long training at sushi school in Los Angeles, California, and her passion for preparation and presentation is palpable when she talks about the colors and flavors of finely crafted sushi. “Japanese cuisine focuses on five colors: black, white,

green, red and yellow,” she says. “The key is vibrant color and taste, highlighting the flavor of every ingredient. Food needs to taste, look and sound good, and be consistent with itself. Simple food made perfectly is a fantastic model for cooking.”

This addition to The Lakehouse Grille began last summer, when Mozer applied for a kitchen position at Lakehouse. But Damore had another position in mind for her. He explained his plan to reintroduce superior sushi to The Lakehouse Grille, which would include the new sushi chef attending a month-long training at sushi school near the iconic beach city of Redondo Beach, California. Mozer’s eyes widened with an enthusiastic “Yes!”

Damore found Mozer’s excitement to explore a new professional direction inspiring. As a 2018 graduate from Culver Girls Academy, Mozer stood out to Damore, with notable strengths of leadership and good time management. Damore believed Mozer would be the strategic addition to The Lakehouse Grille team that he had been seeking - energetic, creative and eager to learn. Damore offered to make the capital investment in training for Mozer. The only drawback was that the plan wouldn’t begin for six months, when she would travel to California to attend sushi school. Damore turned to fellow Culver business owner Dawn Brockey of Culver Coffee Company for Mozer’s employment until the January start of sushi school. It just so happened that Brockey’s business needed

Owners Mark & Dana Damore with Son Liam

to fill some staff needs, and before Mozer was back in her car from the interview, she had a job and was in a new professional direction.

An Ohio native, Mozer honed her food preparation and presentation skills at the Simply Rolled Ice Cream shop in the Short North Arts District in Columbus, Ohio. “People

skills in a kitchen can’t be undervalued,” she says. “Arguments have no place in an efficient workplace. Instead, approaching conflict with novelty and interest, and learning what is going on, will bring resolution.”

This kind of perspective helped earn Mozer the title of head chef, managing the staff and often a 100-deep line of customers out the

Mozer welcomed the wait time in Culver until her upcoming sushi training. “The Midwest in general is a fantastic place to live,” she says. “There are nice people who make eye contact and wave at others. I’m known to make cookies for my neighbors, including one of my former teachers who I credit for instilling in me a true love of learning.”

She brought that love to the sushi school in California, scoring 94 out of 100 on the final written test, finishing at the top of her class in the process of presenting a unique Japanese appetizer and sushi roll to the judging table before the master sushi chefs. Her choice of going off-script by using fruit in her sushi was commended. Chef

Mo was born.

This superior finish to her training culminated after weeks of confronting the unknown. Not only did she walk into the first day of sushi training in California to a greeting in Japanese from the chefs, but there was also the language of ingredients, the process and the presentation. Chef Mo’s newly adopted Japanese mottos include “Ohayo gozaimasu,” which is a greeting. “Go chisou sama deshita” marks the end of meal, with gratitude for enjoying delicious food.

“Food safety is so insanely important,” Mozer says. “The pH, acidity and vinegar levels are all significant elements to creating excellent sushi. There are very tight windows to make sure the taste, safety and texture of sushi are enjoyed at the highest level.”

In the way only someone extremely confident from practiced discipline can, Chef Mo outlines the road to culinary success. “Manage your time,” she says. “Manage your food prep. Do it right the first time, so you are prepared to do the correct thing on a busy night when you have 30 tickets. In the end, it’s important to be consistent and care about the food you are making.”

Once back in Indiana, Chef Mo set out to forge relationships with

regional suppliers of top-quality ingredients critical to creating top-quality sushi. From sushi paper to seaweed nori, rice varieties and endless seasonings, she has found it all, mostly at South Bend’s Saigon Market. “The art of managing purveyors and quality products draws on a restaurant owner’s experience,” Damore says.

Customers will find a selection of sushi rolls as regular menu items, including the Lakehouse Roll, California Roll, Spicy Tuna, Salmon, Sashimi, Nigiri (rice, fish and wasabi), and vegetarian rolls such as Kappamaki (cucumber and rice). The menu will rotate unique sushi items that use seasonal ingredients.

“We certainly have never needed sushi to survive, but we acknowledge that many of our patrons enjoy it and we never want to let any patrons down,” Damore says. “This is an awesome place to visit, to live, to experience. If sushi could be a little hook to draw someone to Culver for a night, a weekend or a lifetime, that’s a great thing for the town. If we can introduce sushi to a child that is kind of picky and expand their culinary horizons, then I believe we would be doing that family a great service, which I love. We want to make all of our guests happy every time, every visit.”

The Lakehouse Grille is located at 620 East Lakeshore Drive in Culver. For more information or to make a reservation, call 574 842-2234. Also visit thelakehouseculver.com.

APRIL CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1.

4.

8.

12.

13.

DOWN

1. Cavern sight

2. I problem?

3. High school subject

4. Bank loan security

5. Calculator, at times

6. Go unsteadily

7. Full of guile

8. Doctor’s orders

9. Beginning to freeze?

10. Aggressively publicize

11. Blood category

19. Coffee preference

20. Base caller

21. Pouches

22. Leaky faucet sound

38. London’s ___ Court

39. Kathmandu country

41. Friends and neighbors

42. Extinct flock

45. Celebrity ribfest

47. Superior to

24. Software error

26. Wanders

28. Annoyance

29. List

30. Dress-uniform part

32. Frost’s bite?

34. Thousand ___, Calif.

37. Ruined

39. Expected outcomes

40. River through Tours

42. Spoil, with “on”

43. It’s within your range

44. Word with heat or meat

46. Biblical conclusion

48. French beverage

50. Haole’s souvenir

51. Cheerleader’s asset

49. Chalet site, perhaps

52. Club

53. “Take this!”

54. Born in France?

55. Bounds

56. “Paradise Lost” setting

57. Bonus for waiting

SUPERBLY SERVED

GET BOWLED OVER BY NEW KITCHEN STORE’S NEWEST DINNERWARE PRODUCTS

One of my favorite times of the day when raising our children was sitting at the supper table and sharing the happenings of the day. School, farm, chores, conflicts - it just didn’t matter. It kept us all together and we learned different lessons through the year from each other’s experiences. We never had any problems getting all the kids to the table. Just having a home-cooked meal with dessert was enough. We spent time discussing some of the activities and fun places we liked to see and visit. We bought a mug wherever our travels would then take us, to remind us of all the things we have seen and done over the years.

When I saw the FIFTYEIGHT dinnerware line showing animated faces on the various pieces, I just had to bring it into the store. Their logo is “Smile at the Table.” I looked at the different faces and could remember just what made our faces smile. The pouty face is precious. I like to pout about all the things I could have done and never did, but the extra-happy face is also one of my favorites. They have a new line called the Heavenly design, featuring a face that looks into the clouds. What a thought - I can watch clouds as I eat my cereal.

There are smug faces as well as lipstick-kiss-covered faces. There are tongues hanging out and even a barf bowl, where whatever you put in it comes out the mouth (I am not getting that one for myself). There is also a dreamy face, a tasty face and so much more. How I wish they made these when the kids were still at home.

They are fairly new to America, 100% made in Germany out of

high-quality clay, and clean up very well. These will be gifts that keep on making smiles at the table.

What can be even better than kissing?

Easy - being kissed! The 16-ounce Movie-edition bowl not only dazzles with colorful eyes, but has also been kissed all over.

They are not only for the table; they also have a travel mug that has colored silicone bands to keep your hands from getting hot. They also come in four basic designs. Age is no concern on this pattern as well. We have had young, old and every age in

between using this pattern, which is called TASSEN.

They are genuine hard porcelain, in an 11-ounce capacity perfect for serving noodle soup, salads and much more. They are dishwasher and microwave safe, and can be shipped in an exclusively designed gift box.

Visit New Kitchen Store at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton to look at the collection. For more info, call 574-586-2745 or visit newkitchenstore.com.

Hours

Monday

Tuesday-Thursday

Friday

Saturday

books.

Hochstetler, co-owner of Little Nook Bookstore, says she was glad she made the decision.

“We opened in 2004, and we have been able to get customers by offering books they are very interested in reading,” she says. “I coown the business with my husband, Aden. It’s been a lot of fun to have this business. The main reason I started this bookstore is

Amanda Hochstetler’s love of reading led her to open a business that would enable her to be surrounded by

that I love to read, and I have been able to share that love of reading with other people. I also like to talk to them about books.”

Hochstetler notes that the books at Little Nook Bookstore appeal to a wide audience.

“We have books for all ages to love,” she says. “We have a lot of true stories, Bibles and devotional books that people have really seemed to enjoy.”

Hochstetler also likes the fact that parents feel good and comfortable about sending their kids to Little Nook Bookstore.

“Kids can come here and pick out a nice, wholesome book to read, and their parents don’t have to worry about them,” she says. “That makes me feel great. We have books for preschoolers, grade-school children, and older kids.”

Little Nook Bookstore also features a variety of books for adults to enjoy.

“We have a nice selection of books to choose from, and I have received a lot of compliments from happy customers,” she says. “I also enjoy giving out book recommendations.”

Hochstetler says Little Nook Bookstore originally started in her home. “We eventually moved to another building very close to our house,” she says. “We use most of that building for Little Nook Bookstore. It was great to be able to expand the business.”

Hochstetler notes that Little Nook Bookstore features other products besides books.

“We have some wonderful greeting cards and gifts,” she says. “We also have games and puzzles, clocks, toys, and school supplies. We have some very nice bookmarks, as well as wonderful stationary and a variety of journals. We have some really nice, highquality, handmade purses and handbags

that really look wonderful. They are from Pennsylvania.”

Hochstetler says she treasures and appreciates all her customers.

“We have some customers that bring in the whole family to find something to read,” she says. “I enjoy talking to them about books, and finding out what books we have coming in that they might be interested in reading. I like helping people pick out their books and their next great reads.”

Hochstetler notes that the cold winter months are always a great time for readers.

“It’s always nice to cozy up with a great book,” she says. “I think a lot of people tend to read more in November, December, January and February. We remain busy after Christmas, and that’s been encouraging. Things tend to slow down in March, but we still have our steady, loyal customers. We also aren’t always as busy in the summer,

but that’s alright because we have more things going on at home.”

Hochstetler loves reading books from different genres.

“I love any book I can get my hands on,” she says. “Reading is such a joy. I enjoy reading my kids’ books.”

To get your next great book for a cozy night of reading, visit Little Nook Bookstore at 13871 North 1050 West in Nappanee. For more information, call 574-773-2107.

This month, for the first time since 1869, many Hoosiers will have the opportunity to witness the rare phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. Readers may remember the partial eclipse of August 21, 2017, the nearest totality being south of our state.

The total solar eclipse will take place on April 8, 2024, and will start around 1:45 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (12:45 p.m. Central). It will be completed by 4:30 p.m. EST, though the length of totality is much shorter, expected to start around 3 p.m. EST and last between two and four minutes, depending upon location in the state (details on that follow near the end of this article).

The range of totality stretches from around the east-central portion of the state to the southwest, which means local Lakes Magazine readers wishing to see it will need to travel southwards.

And while many Hoosiers may recall partial solar eclipses through the decades of the mid-20th to early 21st centuries (and lunar eclipses are another matter entirely), this month’s event will be the last until September 24, 2099, when another will occur in the Fort Wayne area, or June 3, 2505, when central Indiana will experience another total solar eclipse, according to the website of the Charles

W. Brown Planetarium at Ball State University in Muncie.

Last year on October 14, the second annular solar eclipse (when the moon obscures part of the sun) of the 2020s worldwide - and the only one of the decade in which the path of annularity went through the U.S. - took place, though only about about 42% of the sun was covered in parts of Indiana.

The aforementioned 2017 “Great American Eclipse” was the first solar eclipse visible across the entire U.S. since 1918, and the first total eclipse of the sun visible in the mainland U.S. since 1979, though about 90% of the sun was obscured in some parts of Indiana (Carbondale, Illinois, holds the distinction of experiencing total eclipse on August 21, 2017, as well as again this month, on April 8, 2024).

The last significant partial eclipse visible in Indiana prior to that took place October 23, 2014, and the largest in recent memory was the May 10, 1994, annular eclipse, which, in Indianapolis, covered 91% of the sun.

The last total eclipse in the Hoosier state took place August 7, 1869.

The very first photograph of a total eclipse was captured in 1851 by a Russian photographer known as Berkowski.

Some 98% of the sun was covered in southern Indiana towns like Bloomington and Evansville. The Plymouth Republican newspaper of August 5 that year wrote that “In Marshall County the eclipse will only be partial but will doubtless be sufficiently interesting to attract general attention, provided the weather be favorable.”

Prior to that eclipse, according to the website of the Brown Planetarium, the last total solar eclipse visible from parts of Indiana took place way back on September 14, 1205, though a coast-tocoast eclipse put a good deal of northern Indiana in the path of totality for over two minutes on July 29, 957.

Also along historical lines, the ancient Babylonian mathematical acumen was such that they could actually predict eclipses, though, like many ancient cultures, considered them bad omens, particularly for their royalty. Supposedly they sat a commoner on the throne during the eclipse, killing him afterwards just to be safe.

One famous story from eclipse history goes that Chinese court astronomers some 4,000 years ago were executed for being drunk and failing to forecast an eclipse. Similarly well-known is the story of the death of King Henry I of England in 1133, which coincided with a solar eclipse. Civil war and social chaos occurred following the incident.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, battling armies in Turkey took a solar eclipse in 585 BC as a sign that they should cease their fighting, and they did so after 15 years of warfare.

Other odd reactions to eclipses include the case of a woman deeply troubled by predictions of doomsday at a 1749 eclipse, locking herself in a room and cutting her arm until she bled to death, according to the London Evening Post at the time.

A much more positive historic moment surrounding a solar eclipse occurred on July 28, 1851, when a Russian photographer named Berkowski took the first successful image of a total eclipse, shooting from the Royal Observatory in Königsberg, Prussia (today’s Kaliningrad, Russia), exposing a daguerreotype plate for 84 seconds.

The age-old myth that an eclipse can be dangerous to pregnant women still persists in some circles today, deriving no doubt from the fact that total or near-total eclipses have tended to cause ostensibly strange phenomena in nature including the fact that birds, insects and animals may go almost eerily quiet. Of course, the logical explanation for this is that their nighttime instincts kick in and they respond accordingly, heading for trees and nests to bed down.

Among other relevant “fun facts” regarding eclipses, it might interest readers to know that the moon’s shadow zips across Earth’s surface at up to 5,000 miles per hour. Total solar eclipses occur on our planet because the sun happens to be 400 times larger than the moon, but also is 400 times farther from the Earth, making the both appear the exact same size in the sky - and Earth is unique in our solar system because of this.

In any given place, total solar eclipses average only once every 360 years, though they cannot be seen at all from either the North or South Pole.

Readers planning to travel to a Hoosier locale where the total eclipse can be experienced may note some odd-seeming occurrences, including a potential 10- to 15-degree drop in temperature. Wind may seem to dissipate or even stop. This takes place because, as the sun disappears behind the moon, the ground cools rapidly, much as it does at sunset. This causes warm air to stop rising from the ground and, consequentially, a drop in wind speed and a shift in its direction.

Shortly before the total eclipse, “Baily’s beads” appear where sunlight shines through valleys on the moon, with the last of these creating what appears as a diamond ring in the sky. The phenomenon is named for British astronomer Francis Baily, who, in May 1836, posited that the moon’s uneven surface of hills and valleys blocks or allows sunlight to show through to our eyes, creating the spectacular effect of the “beads.”

During the eclipse, any planets visible in the sky at the time may be seen as points of light. Shadows will change in appearance and, relating to the nighttime-oriented behavior referenced above, some animals may become confused or act strangely (so reassuring your dog may not be a bad idea, though it’s recommended to simply leave him or her at home in northern Indiana if traveling to an eclipse viewing area).

Also, it takes around an hour before complete daylight is restored following a total eclipse.

Viewing safety is another matter to consider if one plans to experience this month’s eclipse. Approved safety glasses may be ordered or purchased, and while it actually is safe to look directly towards the sun during actual totality, caution should be taken before and after.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the center of the path of totality on April 8 will bring darkness for around four minutes, with times dropping proportionally depending on distance from the center.

Times of totality for specific areas of Indiana may be found online at Eclipse2024.org. They include:

Muncie: The eclipse begins at 1:52 p.m. EST with totality at 3:07 p.m. Totality of duration is approximately three minutes and 45 seconds.

Indianapolis: Eclipse visibility starts at 1:50 p.m. with totality beginning at 3:06 p.m. Duration is just over three minutes and 45 seconds.

Bluffton: The eclipse starts around 1:53 p.m., becoming total at 3:08 p.m., lasting two minutes and 33 seconds.

Down south in Bloomington, the eclipse begins at 1:49 p.m. with totality starting at 3:05 p.m. Totality duration is just over four minutes.

The State of Indiana Department of Homeland Security website has a special section on the 2024 eclipse at in.gov/dhs/solar-eclipse-2024, with a plethora of resources. Included in the site’s “Where to Go” section are event listings closer to home, even if the eclipse is only partial in the north-central and northwest Indiana areas. Among these are viewing parties or events at Valparaiso parks, the Indiana Dunes State Park, North Webster Public Library, Science Project Brewing in Logansport, Science Central in Fort Wayne, and more.

HAVE A SEAT

TABLE AND CHAIR RENTAL OWNERS FIND AN IMPORTANT LOCAL NICHE

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Daniel Beechy Jr., co-owner of Table and Chair Rental, says when he and his wife, Esther, took over the business, they wanted to keep it going to help the community.

“The Table and Chair Rental trailer had previously been owned by a friend,” Beechy Jr. says. “He wasn’t able to devote the time to it that he wanted, so he made the decision to sell it. We had used it a few times previously for Amish funerals, and it got to the point where we thought we almost couldn’t do without it.”

Beechy Jr. decided he and Esther could take over the business. “Rather than seeing it get sold to somebody out of this area, we

chose to just buy it ourselves and continue renting it out. The aforementioned friend worked at Forest River RV. They always had a problem finding affordable tables and chairs for their company picnic. Seeing a solution to their problem, he bought a trailer, some tables and chairs and started renting them out to others.”

Table and Chair Rental has been able to continue garnering business, and they are always interested in getting new customers.

“We are getting a lot of bookings for weddings and other events that are scheduled some time in advance, so it’s a good idea to reserve your spot as soon as you can,” Beechy Jr. says.

Table and Chair Rental rents out a trailer with tables and chairs for parties and events.

“What’s neat about it is you get the whole thing delivered to your event,” Beechy Jr. says. “There’s no running to a friend to

borrow a trailer. Just one phone call takes care of everything. People find renting this package less expensive than paying by the piece from rental companies. We know that for most events, you need your tables and chairs at least one day in advance to set up. Therefore, we have a policy of providing one day of rental for free, for this purpose.”

The trailer includes 40 8-foot tables and 300 chairs. It can be picked up or delivered.

“The trailer has a fair amount of tongue weight, so an F-150 truck isn’t big enough for towing,” Beechy Jr. says.

The trailer also comes with a hitching rope.

“The hitching rope is for tying horses at Amish events,” Beechy Jr. says.

Beechy Jr. says he has had some interesting experiences.

“We had one event where they needed to

stack tables on top of each other for clothes storage,” he says. “The event was in a tent. It happened to get windy, and the tent sides would blow in and hit the tables, knocking the top tables off. To solve that problem, I made fixtures that attach to the bottom tables where the legs of the top tables sit into, which keeps them from sliding off.”

The Beechys own another business.

“We own Clearspring Manufacturing, where we manufacture and distribute hardwood RV components,” Beechy Jr. says. “We also recently added another product line - custom closets. This takes up all my time, so Esther oversees all the scheduling and billing for the table and chair trailer.”

The Beechys enjoy living in Topeka. “We like the sense of community,” Beechy Jr. says. “It’s amazing how when something happens, how the community just drops everything they were doing so they can help out. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

To rent tables and chairs for your next event, call Table and Chair Rental at 260-593-2086, ext. 1.

Nancy Clouse, co-owner of Down Under Bar & Restaurant, says she wants customers to come in, kick back and relax.

“My husband and co-owner, Todd, and I want everyone who comes in here to just take it easy,” Clouse says. “We want you to have a great meal and a great drink, and just have a wonderful time with family and friends.”

Clouse says she and the staff enjoy getting to know their customers and their favorite meals and drinks.

“We just love to make people feel like they are at home,” Clouse says. “We don’t want you to feel rushed. We want you to gather around a table and have a good meal.”

Clouse notes that Down Under has changed a lot over the years.

“We opened 21 years ago and we have been able to keep growing by making positive changes,” she says. “We went from being a

tavern that serves food to a restaurant that serves cocktails. The great thing is that so many people went along with us as we made all the positive changes. That’s a wonderful feeling.”

Clouse says her loyal customers and hardworking staff are like family. “We have had a lot of the same excellent customers that have been coming back for years, and our staff is like our kids,” she says.

Clouse notes that the food is very popular. “One of our biggest customer favorites is our excellent prime rib,” she says. “We get a lot of orders for that. Our pizza is also a big hit. Our thin-crust pizza with fresh ingredients and special sauce is delicious. Some people just rave about it and wish they had heard about it before. I always say Down Under Bar & Restaurant is the bestkept secret in Syracuse.”

Clouse adds that the fish meals are also tasty and popular.

“The number of fish dinners being ordered

has really increased in volume,” she says. “Our breaded fish is extremely well-liked. I have some customers tell me they can’t wait to come back and get it again. Our almond-crusted walleye is also popular. It’s a 12-ounce portion of wild Canadian walleye served grilled or breaded.”

The bistro sirloin steak and grilled chicken dinner are also big hits.

“We have different specials every night,” Clouse says. “Customers can see what they are by checking out our Facebook page or just stopping in.”

The hamburgers have also garnered a huge following. “We have the Original Down Under burger, which is a half-pound burger topped with American cheese, and The Big One burger, which is two half-pound burgers stacked with cheese, bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, pickle, and mayo,” she says.

Clouse notes that the hot pretzel bites get ordered a lot.

“I’ve also been told that we have the best wings in town,” she says. “We offer one pound of our original wings, served plain or with several different types of sauces.”

Clouse also gets positive comments on the salads. “We have a delicious homemade salad dressing that people rave about,” she says. “We have an endless salad bowl.”

Customers also enjoy their desserts. “I always tell people to order my grandma’s apple dumpling with ice cream for dessert,” she says. “It’s excellent. People also enjoy our take-home specials, which we call Take and Bake. The food is already prepared. You just take it home and heat it up.”

Clouse has her own personal food favorites.

“I love our prime rib and also our French dips,” she says.

Clouse says the cocktails are also highly popular. “We have 100 bottles of bourbon with the best selection around,” she says. “You will love it.”

Clouse says she loves to honor the staff by having an employee of the month featured on their Facebook page.

“The employee picked for this has their favorite meal featured as a special,” she says.

Clouse notes that the Down Under team loves to also be involved in the local community.

“We get involved with the Elkhart Special Olympics and help with that,” she says. “They are a wonderful organization.”

Stop by Down Under Bar & Restaurant at 801 North Huntington Street, Suite 12 in Syracuse, Indiana. Give them a call at 574457-3920 or check them out on Facebook @TheDownUnder.

Countryside Produce got its start in 2008 in a simple, 10-by10-foot pop-up tent. The owners planted their roots in the produce industry by selling fresh and organic vegetables out of this tent.

A short time later, Owner and Operator Devon Hostetler saw the need to expand the operation. This led him to move into a shed for more space for items. Fast-forward to 2023, and once again he knew the operation was expanding on the daily.

As their reputation grew, so did the need for a building. Therefore, they built an actual storefront to better serve customers.

Produce has to offer include apples, carrots, cauliflower, onions, garlic, tomatoes, radishes, potatoes, zucchini, lettuce and peppers, and much more. You can also find delicious items such as maple syrup, honey and herbs.

As you browse their LaGrange store, you will find healthy dairy products like milk and cheese, farm fresh eggs, and grass-fed beef and poultry.

While in the store you can follow the scent of fresh-baked goods that will lead you to the back of the building. Here you will find their in-store bakery that is full of delicious options. Some of the most popular baked goods they offer include breads, pastries and cookies.

Countryside Produce is dedicated to working with the community and other local vendors to provide high-quality products to their customers. Some of these include Grandma’s homemade jams, jellies

and baked goods, along with Homestead Organic Farm, who provides delicious butter. As a business located in the heart of Amish Country, Countryside Produce has access to others who have the same mindset when it comes to consuming healthy foods and goods.

Hostetler is committed to providing high-quality products to his community. Hostetler attributes his success to his family’s involvement in the day-to-day operation. This begins with his wife and seven children being hands-on and learning a variety of skills.

The family has three greenhouses where they learn the tricks and trades of all things farming. They also have rows

of outdoor crops that his children learn how to plant, grow and harvest. One of the most rewarding parts of the job for Hostetler is watching his children grow up and learn about business, health and food.

The next time you are in the mood for fresh vegetables, meats, baked goods, fruits, soaps and more, consider a trip to Countryside Produce. You will always find something delicious and healthy.

They are a cash-based business and do not accept credit or debit cards.

You can also find them throughout the year at a variety of farmers markets. Some of these include the Fort Wayne Farmers Market, the Salomon Farm Park Farmers Market, and the Auburn Farmers Market.

Countryside Produce is located at 915 East 200 South in LaGrange. You can reach them by phone at 260-499-4009 or by email at countrysideproduce@ibyfax.com. Simply stop by and ask for farmer Devon, and they will be happy to show you around and share their knowledge of farming.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2024

APRIL

ELKHART COUNTY

April 1, 2024

SAVE THE GOON DOCKS ESCAPE ROOM

Nappanee / You and 6-8 of your “goonie” friends must find a famous pirate’s rich stuff in order to save the “Goon Docks”! nappaneeparks.recdesk.com/Community/Facility/ Detail?facilityId=28&fbclid=IwAR1qu6Y brpTMaTOIujemovJhpjGfUq59ZE1GwKyaKWzC2_ zDGvXm3NEiyX0

April 5, 2024

STRONGER THAN CANCER BLOCK PARTY

Goshen Fairgrounds / Come on out and join the fun for a great cause to raise funds for Cancer! Admission is only $10, and all funds will go to the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life of Michiana. visitnoblecounty.org/calendar

April 5, 2024

SUPERHERO NIGHT

Elkhart Health & Aquatics / This free event will include inflatables, games, crafts, trivia, snacks and the opportunity to meet superheroes! Registration is required. wndu.com/community/calendar/

April 8, 2024

TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE SUN

Ox Bow Park, Elkhart / If you can’t make it south to

April 24-26, 2024

DAS DUTCHMAN ESSENHAUS

SPRING HOME & FASHION SHOW

Middlebury / This annual event combines fashion, home décor, dining, door prizes and loads of fun!

April 25-28, 2024

THE BIG BALLOON BUILD

Northern Indiana Event Center, Elkhart / More than 125,000 balloons will be transformed into a life-size interactive experience. This is only the fifth time this incredible event has been held in the U.S., and 100% of the proceeds will support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana.

facebook.com/events/925750835691293

April 26-28, 2024

WAKARUSA MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL

Celebrating 55 years of community, family and festival fun!

wakarusachamber.com/maple-syrup-festival/

April 27, 2024

NAPPANEE SPRING MARKET

Claywood Event Center / Food will be available and admission is FREE.

facebook.com/Nappaneespringvendormarket

April 28, 2024

8TH ANNUAL GOSHEN VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE SHOW & SWAP MEET

The public is invited to join motorcycle enthusiasts for this free event.

facebook.com/events/3050515265080070

April 6, 2024

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Warsaw / Come visit the Farmers Market to see local farmers, crafters, florists, bakers and more. visitindiana.com/event/kosciusko-county-farmers-andartisans-market/10345/

NOBLE COUNTY

April 18, 2024

ANNUAL BANQUET & KENDALL AWARDS

Kendallville / Our biggest event of the year! facebook.com/events/848138197087121

April 27, 2024

EAST NOBLE CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR

East Noble Middle School, Kendallville / This is a FREE event which will feature musical performances by band students throughout the day facebook.com/groups/134564776689873

April 30, 2024

TALES & TRAILS

Merry Lea, Albion / This is a free monthly program designed for children ages 3-5. Registration is required. visitnoblecounty.org/calendar

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY

April 4, 2024

SPRING BREAK FUN AT THE RES PAINT PARTY

Mishawaka / Are you ready to break out your inner artist and explore the wild? Ages 4-8 facebook.com/events/1326733904707865

April 6, 2024

EPIC 80’S PROM PARTY

Gillespie Center South Bend / Go “Back to the 80’s” with South Bend Civic Theatre. This one-night fundraiser will feature a concert by the totally awesome 80s tribute band, “The 1985” as well as carnival games, a cast of interactive characters, a king & queen competition, nostalgic food and a full bar. facebook.com/events/3492654350879920

April 20-21, 2024

SHIPSHEWANA ON THE ROAD

South Bend / Just $5 gets you in to browse unique gifts, crafts and food galore. shipshewanaontheroad.com/

April 23, 2024

PINK MOON NIGHT HIKE

South Bend / Put on your “pinkest” outfit and join us for a self-guided night hike! Registration is required at $5/person. sjcparks.org/Calendar. aspx?EID=3789&month=4&year=2024&day=22&calType=0

SHIPSHEWANA/LAGRANGE COUNTY

April 5-6, 2024

PLAIN & SIMPLE 4TH ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW

Shipshewana Auction & Antique Building / There will be classes on painting, Essential Oils, gardening & plants and soap making – registration is required. plainsimplemag.com/

April 20, 2024

SHIP-CHIC SPRING MARKET

Shipshewana Auction Building / Old stuff and new stuff, all picked with quality in mind. Come shop authentic products and meet the folks who are making and selling them. Admission is $5 at the door. shipshewanatradingplace.com/events/shipchic-craft-andvintage-show/

April 27, 2024

SHIPSHEWANA SWAP MEET

Shipshewana Auction Grounds / Hunt for bargains and neat finds in an outdoor, open-air marketplace. All kinds of fowl, poultry, small animals, pets, produce, baked goods, antiques, flowers, trees and food plus much more. / Parking is $3. shipshewanatradingplace.com/events/swap-meets

April 27, 2024

BARK IN THE PARK PINE KNOB PARK, HOWE

Are you ready for a great time supporting the animals at Ark Animal Rescue & Adoption? If you’ve adopted from us, we’d love to see the dogs for our first 5K Run/Walk. There will be prizes, Doggies Goodie Bags and a food truck for your enjoyment. Register early for a discount! facebook.com/events/325618863202616

April 30, 2024

OPENING DAY OF THE SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET

The Shipshewana Flea Market opens for the season! Come shop the nearly 900 booths on 100 acres. Be sure to visit the information booth to sign up for daily drawing giveaways. shipshewanatradingplace.com/flea-market/dates-hours

MAILED MONTHLY FREE OF CHARGE TO WELL VALUED HOMEOWNERS. EXTRA HARD COPIES PLACED IN 150 + BUSINESSES

WEST EDITION TARGETS MARSHALL, FULTON, STARKE, PULASKI, WHITE, & LA PORTE COUNTY INDIANA PLUS BERRIEN COUNTY MICHIGAN

EAST EDITION TARGETS KOSCIUSKO, LAGRANGE, ELKHART ,STEUBEN, & NOBLE COUNTY INDIANA PLUS ST. JOSEPH, BRANCH & CASS COUNTY INDIANA