The Lakes Magazine December 2019 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2019

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR HENSLER NURSERYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHRISTMAS FEST IS BACK THROUGH DECEMBER 22

TheLakesMagazine.com

Holiday Gift Baskets make great gifts! 4 Different types of baskets to choose from ranging $30 to $60

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TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. THE LAKES MAGAZINE

THE LAKES MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS John & Mandi Lewandowski

John@TownePost.com / 574-249-9217 Mandi@TownePost.com

TOWNE POST CEO Tom Britt

Tom@TownePost.com

TOWNE POST PRESIDENT Jeanne Britt

Jeanne@TownePost.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Robert Turk

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR: HENSLER NURSERY’S CHRISTMAS FEST IS BACK THROUGH DECEMBER 22

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Or at least, so the Andy Williams song goes. But what makes this time so magnificent? It’s not just the music, snowfall on Christmas Eve or the special dishes Grandma makes every year. It’s also the wonder in a child’s smile when they see Christmas lights. Santa’s ho-ho-ho’s have it, too. And don’t forget the feeling when you find that perfect Christmas tree. Simply put, the magic of Christmas is in the unique experiences that come around only around this time of year.

7 Marshall County Council on Aging 42 Evergreen Eatery: Owner Talks Enhances Seniors’ Lives

11 A Coffee Break By the Lake: Culver Coffee Company Remains a Local Fixture 16 Years Later

15 Healey’s Home Center: New

20 Pratt’s Floor Covering: Owner Talks Flooring, Family & Giving Back to the Community

Year: Hensler Nursery’s Christmas Fest Is Back Through December 22

30 November Crossword Puzzle Answers

47 The Pulaski Christmas Lights: Local Tradition Returns Through New Year’s Eve

49 Saylor’s Custom Butchering:

Family-Owned Store Is Finding Success In Winamac

24 The Most Wonderful Time of the

History of the Popular Rochester Restaurant

Longtime Butcher Boasts Nearly 25 Years of Success In Grovertown

50 Mill Creek Gardens: Owner Talks

About the Transformation of the Former Mansion Into a Quaint Bed & Breakfast

54 Clocking In: Mint City Millwork

Provides Customers With Unique, Handcrafted Clocks

32 Pure Maxinkuckee Ice: A Once

57 Frida’s Mexican Cuisine & Pancake

36 December Crossword Puzzle 38 Born in a Barn: Popular Knox

59 Coop De Chick: Handmade,

Thriving Wintertime Business

Shop Sells Antiques, Furniture, Collectibles & More

House Is a Culver Favorite

Rob@TownePost.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Austin Vance

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Valerie Randall

EDITORIAL MANAGER Josh Brown

Josh@TownePost.com

EDITOR

Samantha Kupiainen

DECEMBER WRITERS

Angela Cornell / Jeff Kenney Julie Yates / Mary Lowry / Matt Keating Seth Johnson

DECEMBER PHOTOGRAPHERS Jubilee Edgell

SHOP LOCAL! Help our local economy by shopping local. Advertising supporters of the The Lakes Magazine offset the costs of publication and mailing, keeping this publication FREE. Show your appreciation by thanking them with your business. BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS ARE SPONSORED CONTENT

The The Lakes Magazine is published by the Towne Post Network and is written for and by local area residents. Over 13,000 copies are distributed each month in The Lakes area.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

8800 North Street, Suite 117, Fishers IN 46038 Phone/Fax: 317-810-0011

Custom Keepsake Baskets Are a Hit For the Holidays

62 What’s Happening at The Lakes thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 5

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Executive Director Jackie Wright

MARSHALL COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING ENHANCES SENIORS’ LIVES Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

The Marshall County Council on Aging has been improving lives since it opened in 1974. The agency has produced many successful programs and services to help senior citizens in the county over the last 45 years. Among the many great services they offer, their public transit system has been well received by the public.

Jackie Wright, executive director of the council, says “The agency is the public transit for Marshall County. We have 10 vans providing transit for all of Marshall County.” The Plymouth City Transportation Service is only $2.50 a person per boarding. Frequent rider discount cards are available, and medical transportation is also provided. Wright says the council strives to make life easier for senior citizens.

“We also do Meals on Wheels, a Senior Expo, produce and distribute the Senior Guide, and have a senior center, ‘The Life Enrichment Center,’ in Plymouth,” Wright says. The Senior Expo is held annually at Plymouth High School. It has free admission, free food, free entertainment, free health screenings, flu shots, over 60 vendors, and hundreds of door prizes. They had another successful expo last October.

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The free Senior Guide tells people all of the resources and services the Marshall County Council on Aging provides. Wright says the guide meets a need for accurate, userfriendly information. The council distributes 17,000 Senior Guides throughout the Marshall County area, as well as to extended families all over the county. The Life Enrichment Center of Harrison Street is a busy hub for people looking for interaction, information, and social activities, as well as a variety of services for young and old adults alike. “We also run a rep/payee program, a tax program with AARP, and senior Insurance counseling,” Wright says. “Our goal is to keep individuals as independent and safe as possible. We do that through information and service to individuals, as well as the families of those individuals.” Wright noted that the vision of the council is to support the rights and privileges of older adults by providing a comfortable environment in which to enhance their lives through social participation and community involvement. They also give them a choice of varied educational and health related activities. The Marshall County Council also doesn’t restrict itself to just one area of the county.

“We are physically in Plymouth but can meet with individuals anywhere and provide service for the entire county,” Wright says. “I feel we have a good relationship with many cities, as well as other providers in the county. We meet regularly with various city councils and county representatives to educate on what we do and secure a relationship with them.” The council goes out of its way to make the public aware of all the services they offer. “We do numerous speaking events to help the community and individuals be aware of what we offer, and what is available not only through our agency, but available period,” Wright says. The council also works with several other agencies to help the lives of seniors. “We involve United Way, Triad, and the Chambers of Commerce through Marshall County, and numerous committees and programs throughout the county that enhance quality of life for all that live in Marshall County,” Wright says. The Marshall County Council on Aging is located at 1305 W. Harrison Street in Plymouth. They can be reached at 574-936-9904 or toll-free at 1-866-936-9904. For additional information, visit them at marshallcountycouncilonaging.org.

MARSHALL COUNTY

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4-H Fair Culver Fall Fest Culver Lake Fest Dates Available Holy 2019 at Walk Bourbon Summer Fest Christmas Fest at Hensler’s Nursery VisitMarshallCounty.org

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CULVER COFFEE COMPANY REMAINS A LOCAL FIXTURE 16 YEARS LATER Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Known by the slogan “Your Coffee Break by the Lake”, Culver Coffee Company has been a fixture in Culver since 2003. Within its welcoming, comfortable space, the shop serves up beverages and tasty treats to town dwellers, lake homeowners and people

connected with the Culver Academies. Dawn Brockey and her mother Nancy Minas co-own the establishment, which will soon celebrate 16 years in business.

“I played softball in college and traveled all over, and studied in coffee shops when on the road. I knew Culver would be the perfect place to open a little coffee house.

“In 2003, after I graduated from Indiana State University, I returned to Culver for my five-year reunion from Culver Academies and found the space for sale,” Brockey says.

“In December of that year, after months of hard work and support from my family, from laying the tile to putting up dry-wall and painting, I served our first lattes in

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 11

Culver! I was the sole employee for months, then added a few employees later that first year, and now we carry eight to employees at any given time throughout the year.” The cafe offers cozy spots to meet up with friends and even outside seating if weather permits — both options enable visitors to enjoy great views of Lake Maxinkuckee. The work of local artists is displayed on the walls and books by local authors are available to purchase. It’s a great place to pick up a lastminute gift since the shop also offers South Bend Chocolates, other gourmet foods, candles, stoneware and Republic of Tea items. “We have a whole line of specialty gourmet coffee drinks and we always try to use different local roasters in our rotation,” Brockey says. “We serve sandwiches and homemade soups, homemade baked goods such as scones, muffins, breads, brownies plus ice cream, pizza, salads and more. We are known for our Maxinkuckee mocha’s, as well as our top-selling retail line of apparel,

BROCKEY INSURANCE AGENCY Auto • Home • Business • Life 3 Locations Culver, (574) 842-2388 Plymouth, (574) 355-3335 Rochester, (574) 224-8404 Larry Brockey, II Owner

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12 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

‘Lake Maxinkuckee, Unsalted, No Sharks!’” Brockey comes from a longstanding tradition of owning a family business. Her great grandfather opened the Minas Store in downtown Hammond, which stayed in the family for 100 years. Her grandfather instilled the importance of using a slogan and today #yourcoffeebreakbythelake is used in almost all the café’s Instagram posts. Brockey met her husband Larry, owner of Brockey Insurance, when he came into the shop for coffee. Today they have three young children who some day might have a part in the family businesses. Reflecting on Culver Coffee Company’s upcoming anniversary, Brockey says, “The Culver Coffee Company values education, arts, and the environment. We value positive and friendly relationships, and we believe everyone needs a smile. We believe in giving back to the community and donate to over 90 causes a year, all over Marshall County.” “My mission was to bring all three aspects of Culver together- the Academies, community, and lake visitors. The thing I am perhaps most proud of is that our customers truly range from each of those three areas. I am grateful they all feel treated the same, and welcome in the café!” Culver Coffee Company is located at 634 East Lake Shore Drive in Culver. For more information, visit them on Facebook and Instagram, @culvercoffeeco. thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 13

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HEALEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOME CENTER NEW FAMILY-OWNED STORE IS FINDING SUCCESS IN WINAMAC

Writer / Mary Lowry Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Pat and Belinda Healey take great pride in their new business, Healey’s Home Center, located in Winamac. After opening on January 1, 2019, they have had a wonderful experience working in the community. Originally, the Healeys ran a custom cabinetry shop out of the back of the former Winamac Lumber, where Healey’s Home Center is now. Pat has worked in custom cabinetry for 26 years, so when the business he was working at closed, he decided to open up his own shop. He and Belinda ran that shop for five years, with Pat doing the custom cabinetry work and Belinda working as the office manager. “When we wanted to start our cabinet business in 2014, Phil [White, former owner of Winamac Lumber] made it available for us to lease back here,” Belinda says. “Then last fall, when [Phil and Jenny White] decided that they wanted to move on to different ventures, they asked if we would be interested in purchasing the whole building, so then the first of this year we owned the building.” Since opening earlier this year, the store has gained a wonderful reputation. Customers are sure to be delighted by the huge variety of products and services offered, and they will be even more impressed with the outstanding service provided by the family. They offer customers quite a wide selection with tools for plumbing, electrical, hardware, 16 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

“WE DO A LOT THAT MOST LUMBER YARDS AND HARDWARE STORES WON’T. WE DELIVER ALL OVER THE COUNTY. WE CUSTOMIZE PRODUCTS, WE’LL MAKE CUTS FOR PEOPLE, WE HAVE A CUSTOM CABINET SHOP, AND WE DO SOME WINDOW AND SCREEN REPAIR.”

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lumber, landscaping, plus coal, wood pellets and custom cabinetry. They also have a full line floral and gift shop. “We do a lot that most lumber yards and hardware stores won’t,” Pat says. “We deliver all over the county. We customize products, we’ll make cuts for people, we have a custom cabinet shop, and we do some window and screen repair. If they buy something and need it altered, I take it in the back and alter it for them. They get a level of service that they wouldn’t get at a big box store.”

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Their customers and the community are driving forces behind their business. The Healeys value being a thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 17

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family-oriented, service-oriented store and part of that is by giving back to the community in whatever ways they can. “The store itself has donated and contributed to different organizations in the community throughout as well,” Belinda adds. “We’re in our first year in business, in terms of the store itself, so there’s a lot of people that reach out constantly, and sometimes it’s a little hard, especially in your first year. We do try to give back in what ways we can.”

If you would like to check out Healey’s Home Center for yourself, you can visit them at 800 N US 35 in Winamac. You can also visit them online at healeyshomecenter.com or on Facebook under Healey’s Home Center, Inc. You can also give them a call at 574-946-0998. They are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 5 pm and on Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm.

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Carla, Jordan & Matt Pratt

Writer / Seth Johnson Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Matt Pratt has been in the flooring business for a long time now — more than 30 years in fact. “I started installing carpets for other companies in 1984,” says Pratt, who now owns and operates Pratt’s Floor Covering with his wife Carla. “I worked for other companies, but then I did a lot of side work. My name got out there, and I got quite busy. When I was working that much day and night, I decided to go into [my own] business in ’92.” Ever since, he’s been hard at work providing the Plymouth area with all of their flooring needs via Pratt’s Floor Covering. From carpet to tiling, Pratt’s Floor Covering offers a wide variety of products at affordable prices, while also ensuring quality service and esteemed expertise.

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303 N. Oak Dr. Plymouth IN. 46563 20 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Long before having their showroom space on North Oak Drive, Carla and Matt ran their business out of more humble headquarters. “When we started our business in ’92, he started out of our house, so he had some displays in our house,” Carla says. “It was just a small house here in Plymouth.” Over the years, the family-owned and operated business has established itself in the community, while also employing some familiar faces.

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“All my kids have worked here, and their friends have helped with part-time jobs here and there,” Matt says. “We’ve employed a lot of local people, and we give back to the community.” When it comes to products, Pratt’s Floor Covering carries it all — carpet, vinyl, tiles, hardwood, laminate and more. Additionally, they offer some other services that you might not get from your average flooring company. “We do walk-in showers, and I see that setting us apart from different companies,” Carla says. “We also order custom area rugs or make them by buying and cutting them to size.” When it comes to installing a custom tile shower, Pratt’s Floor Covering is fully equipped to get the job done from start to finish. “A lot of times that involves a total remodel of the bathroom area,” Matt says. “We can handle everything from the

MICAHBRADLEY@BARNWOODMASTERS.COM WWW.BARNWOODMASTERS.COM thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 21

THINKING ABOUT SELLING?

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WITH THIS MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, WE PRETTY MUCH KNOW HOW TO HANDLE JUST ABOUT ANY SITUATION. electrical to the plumbing to the draining. We even do countertops and cabinets.” When it comes to pricing, Pratt’s Floor Covering is part of the FCA Network, which helps keep their products affordable. “The FCA Network is a network for all businesses like ours across the United States and Canada,” Matt says. “We group together for buying power, so we can compete with big-box stores. Our prices, in a lot of cases, are even better than they are at the big-box stores.” All in all, Pratt’s Floor Covering prides itself on selling quality products while also making sure customers have all of their flooring needs met. “With this many years of experience, we pretty much know how to handle just about any situation,” Matt says.

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Pratt’s Floor Covering is located at 303 N. Oak Drive in Plymouth. You can also call them at 574-935-5656 or visit them online at PrattsFloorCovering.com for more information.

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thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 23

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR HENSLER NURSERY’S CHRISTMAS FEST I S B AC K T H R O U G H D E C E M B E R 2 2 Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

That is exactly what Hensler’s Nursery has captured with its Christmas Fest over the last 25 plus years. For the first few years, the concept of Christmas Fest was simple enough. “We took the old barn and cleaned it out. We did everything in there. We had some hot chocolate, offered wreath decorating and sold items out of there,” says owner John Hensler. “We kept growing and outgrowing everything here. As we needed more space, we just kept capturing buildings.”

At first it was just the old milk shed, where Santa used to greet the children before he was moved to a larger building. Then they renovated other sheds and barns, adding more activities, refreshments and merchandise over the years to accommodate the growing crowds. “We’ve tried to keep the same charm throughout the whole place,” Hensler says. For the average customer, finding the perfect Christmas tree, chopping it down and getting it back to the car takes a little over 20 minutes. That includes a free horse-

24 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

drawn or tractor-drawn ride back to the pines and firs. So why do most of Hensler’s guests stay for three or four hours? Because no one wants to miss the Christmas village, the assortment of buildings bustling with fun activities like a petting zoo, refreshments provided by local organizations, beautiful ornaments and unique fresh wreaths and garlands. “We’re trying to captivate you,” Hensler says. “We’re trying to overload you with visual and olfactory sensory things. Hopefully, it’s the kind of overload that makes you want to come back.” The Christmas village is largely thanks to the creative minds that work there. “It’s fascinating that I can walk up town and people will recognize me or they recognize the name,” Hensler adds. “I get the credit, but often it’s not me, but all of the talented people that put things together. They each have a strong degree of talent to be able to visualize and put things together. It’s certainly not the high pay, but they can get

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high enjoyment out of seeing the things they have crafted.” Every Christmas party takes time, and Hensler’s month-long Christmas Fest is no exception. Months go into planning the activities, with animals to stock in the petting zoo, how many locally handcrafted items to buy and a hundred different details.

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“Basically, we try to change it up each year and hopefully exceed your expectations,” Hensler says. “By the time we’ve put everything up, the tree fields are the same, but you’re in a unique 300 acres. So, we want it to look exciting.” Just like with most of us, Christmas to Hensler’s means more than just having a good time. This is a season of giving back to the community. “We open up a building so that different organizations can provide food service,” Hensler says. “We provide the space and do not charge for that. Everything those groups make goes back into their organization.” So what happens at Hensler’s when Santa returns to the North Pole? Hensler and his employees focus on the tree nursery end of the business, raising dozens of varieties of trees — hardwoods and conifers — from seed for commercial and reforestation purposes. “This was the root of the business,” Hensler says. “Then we got into

raising Scotch Pine Christmas trees back in the 50s. The heart of the business is to raise trees. Fifty percent of our business here is handling the nursery crop. The other 50% would be the Christmas tree wholesale retail business.” Nor is there much downtime between Christmas and preparing for spring. “As soon as the holidays are over, after everybody has taken a break, they’re back to reordering to restock the barn in January and February,” Hensler says. Around March, they’re ready to ship seedlings to customers as soon as the danger of frost has passed. Throughout the Christmas season, though, Hensler, along with a dynamite team made of Santa and Mrs. Claus, their merry elves and the rest of the Christmas Fest crew are making magic happen. “People come because they like to feel something about a celebration that we’re creating here,” Hensler says. “It might be more enjoyable to be here than going to the Black Friday Sales.” Hensler’s Nursery is located at 5715 N. 750 East in Hamlet, Indiana. Christmas Fest has events running through Dec. 22. For more information, visit them online at henslernurseryindiana.com or give them a call at 574-867-4192. thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 27

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thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 29

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30 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

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(574)773-4826 • www.weaverfurniturebarn.com thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 31

PURE MAXINKUCKEE ICE A ONCE THRIVING WINTERTIME BUSINESS Maxinkuckee’s ice business was remarkable for the sheer magnitude of product – and employment – it generated. A cover story headline in The Marmont Herald newspaper At some point, undoubtedly an older person declared, “Ice for Millions…Over Four has referred to getting something cold out Hundred Car Loads Cut Thus Far this of the “icebox,” though you may or may Season (and not half of the ice houses filled not have associated such an activity with a yet…an industry that is a God-send to the nearby lake or other body of water. laboring men in the winter).” Harvesting ice was not only an integral This claim was no exaggeration considering part of everyday life for many, but also a how many in Culver were farmers or manual financial and economic powerhouse. Doing laborers in those days, which meant winters so was common on lakes and ponds across could be economically tough. The 1895 Northern Indiana, but the ice boom on article continues: Lake Maxinkuckee was one of the most successful in the region and had its start in “The ice cut from Maxinkuckee Lake is of the early 1880s. superior quality and brings a higher price Writer / Jeff Kenney Photography provided by Antiquarian and Historical Society of Culver

in the market. During the harvesting of the ice, from two to three hundred men are employed, that is when running a full force, and it is not only a bonanza for the laboring men in this place, but scores of farmers have the opportunity to earn a little extra “change” which comes in handy, especially at this time of the year…from $1.00 to $1.50 per day is paid to the men, and when we say about $15,000 is left here every year, the outside world can readily see the magnitude of this mammoth industry.” Ice harvesting on the lake took around two to three weeks each winter, with workers laboring through the night. Carbide lighting and a large, reflective sheet lit the ice “field” and house in those pre-electrical days.

32 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Ice had to be at least nine inches thick to be harvested, and the ice field extended out several hundred yards square from shore. Ice was scored in a checkerboard pattern using horses, and large blocks of ice were broken loose with pike poles. These were pushed along a channel to the waiting ice house. The ice houses themselves included massive conveyor systems powered by steam engines. Layer upon layer of ice was stacked, separated by marsh hay, rather than regular farm hay, to prevent layers from freezing together. The ice stayed cold and viable through the summer and into the next winter. Hundreds of trainloads of ice were shipped to cities as far away as Indianapolis, Mishawaka, and Logansport, and billed as “pure Maxinkuckee ice.” Of course, it was also sold around Culver for use in iceboxes, which each home had. A horse-drawn ice wagon (later replaced by a motorized pickup truck) supplied homes and businesses, each of which had a card to display in their window showing the “iceman” whether they wanted 25, 50 or 100 pounds of ice in their box, which was usually on the back porch. Local children often followed the wagon to pick up small pieces of ice to crunch or suck on. As of 1896, there were reportedly nine ice houses in Culver with a total storage capacity of 30,000 tons. This number may or may not have included smaller houses built by businesses and cottages on the lake for their own individual use.

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Welcome to Sanders Foods, we specialize in the groceries your family needs. CELEBRATING 40 YEARS!

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Open Mon - Sat 7am to 8pm Sundays 9am - 6pm (Eastern Time) 858 N. Plymouth Rd. • Winamac 34 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

As an indication of volume, in February 1897, 26,000 tons of ice were harvested in just 15 days. In 1899, 15,000 train carloads of ice were harvested, and in 1907, 40,000 tons of ice were harvested from the lake. That year’s increase was due in part to Samuel Medbourn opening his ice house in the East Jefferson Street area (in the vicinity of today’s Culver Cove Resort) which would prove to be the longest-lasting in Culver. Medbourn’s success lay in his cutting a channel under the railroad to run his ice, which meant production didn’t have to slow down for passing trains as it had before. In 1908, the Medbourn’s ice house averaged about 1,350 tons of ice a day. Ice harvesting reigned on Maxinkuckee through the winter of 1937. Ironically, a badly-needed project for workers hit hard by the Great Depression would ultimately signal the doom of the ice industry in Culver. As WPA projects spread electricity across the land, refrigerators, of course, gradually replaced old fashioned ice boxes, even though Medbourn undertook an advertising campaign refuting the longevity of those newfangled electric freezers. Though a small business selling artificially generated ice persisted at the Medbourn site for decades, the last natural ice house burned down in 1943, signaling the end of an era — the “ice age” on Lake Maxinkuckee was over.

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Enjoy many of the great benefits of health and wellness by becoming a member today. Your membership will give you access to our incredible facilities and many other fantastic advantages. Here are some you will enjoy: All Group Exercise Classes (over 90 per week), AQ Excercise, Member Orientation, 25 Yard Lap Pool, Free Fitness Assessment, 1/7 Mile Walk/Run Indoor Track, Racquetball Courts, Gymnasium, Free Exercise Prescription, Equipment Orientation, Cardiovascular Equipment, TechnoGym Strength Training Equipment, Nautilus Strength Training Equipment, Two Free-Weight Lifting Areas, Punching Bag, Rock Wall, Community Outreach Education, Warm Water Therapy Pool, Steam Room, Dry Sauna, and Hot Tub.

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thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 37

Born in a Barn POPULAR KNOX SHOP SELLS ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, COLLECTIBLES & MORE

Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

By 1985, Jerry had married the love of his life, Vicki.

area until the Cooleys opened a shop in an old rental home.

It started with an old barn that Jerry Cooley and his brother tore down in 1976. After dividing the lumber, Jerry made his share into cabinets. It didn’t take long for him to discover that he loved building with reclaimed wood and people in the area quickly realized he was a gifted carpenter.

“One of the reasons we got married was so we would quit bidding against each other at the auctions,” Jerry jokes.

“Our last downstairs renters gave us notice that they were going to move,” Jerry says. “We had always talked about having our own shop. And then we did.”

Eventually, it became a side business. “We were doing a lot of festivals, selling the barnwood cabinets and frames,” Jerry says. “We had to have a name of a business for taxes. So we just came up with ‘Born in a Barn’ since most of our stuff at that time was made out of barn siding.”

At first, they bought antiques as accessories to accent Jerry’s cabinets, so it didn’t take long for the word to get around that the Cooleys were in the market. “People would call us. Maybe it was a small estate and they don’t want to have an auction or they don’t want people coming in. We still get calls,” Vicki says.

After remodeling the rental home into a storefront, they officially opened their doors as Born in a Barn Antiques in October 2005. “I would go in there after work sometimes and work in the shop,” Vicki says. “I would be in there until 1:00 in the morning, but I enjoyed doing it. It was a happy time.”

From festivals and flea markets, the business Now that both Vicki and Jerry are retired expanded into different antique malls in the they get to spend more time with Born in a

38 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Barn, which today features fewer barnwood cabinets and more antiques. They also sell homemade jams, jellies and honey along with locally-made crafts. “We advertise that we have new stuff, old stuff and some downright ugly stuff,” says Vicki with a smile. Since the Cooleys are collectors at heart, it’s no surprise that they have a wide range of furniture, tools, toys, glassware and collectibles. Most of the time, when the Cooleys purchase an antique, it’s because it fascinates them. “It’s all stuff that we like or we wouldn’t have bought it,” Jerry says. However, it’s not uncommon for them to find an item that a customer has requested, something the Cooleys keep track of on a small Rolodex.

Vicki & Jerry Cooley

302 N. Heaton Street, Knox, IN 46534 • 574-772-3802 JUST SOUTH OF THE YELLOW RIVER BRIDGE ON THE US 35 CORRIDOR

Not only do we have antiques... we have old stuff, new stuff, costume jewelry collectibles, candles, jams, jellies and don’t forget some downright ugly stuff!

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thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 39

“We try to stay on the lookout for what people want,” Vicki says. In the antique market, making a living can be difficult, which is why Born in a Barn has expanded to include other items. The Cooleys have discovered that collectibles in particular, like older advertising clocks, Boardwalk Originals and paintings by Indiana artists make the business possible. However, they rarely have a constant inventory.

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“It varies,” Vicki says. “What I think is interesting right now may not be in there by tomorrow.” Although most of what is featured in Born in a Barn is for sale, some items belong to the Cooleys and are only on display. “Above our counter, there’s a shelf there that has things from my childhood,” Jerry says. “I have a little red toy barn that my dad made out of an orange crate. I remember him making it when I was about 12 years old. We have things up on the shelf that, at one time or another, got broke or don’t work. You hate to throw them away, but you won’t be able to sell it if it has a crack. So we have stuff like that up on a shelf that’s fun to look at but really not for sale.” The Cooleys are passionate about their hometown and their work. Everything they do, though, stems from a foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. “We owe it all to Him,” Jerry says. “We’re not bragging about what we’ve done. We’re bragging about what he’s done for us.”

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5958 4th Road Bremen, IN 46506 40 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Born in a Barn antiques is located at 302 N. Heaton St. in Knox. Their hours are 10 AM to 4 PM Thursday through Saturday or by appointment. Give them a call at 574-772-3802 for more information.

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www.townehomefurnishings.com thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 41

Owner Ruth Gunter

Evergreen Eatery OW N E R TA L K S H I STO RY O F T H E P O P U L A R R O C H E ST E R R E STAU R A N T

42 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Evergreen. It’s the tree that symbolizes the Christmas season. Its scent is known to have calming properties. When planted in a row, they make a stalwart wind block against prairie gusts. But for Rochester natives, Evergreen is a downtown restaurant that has been a part of local culture as far back as anyone can remember. In 1934, Evergreen opened as a restaurant for the first time and quickly became the hang-out of choice for the teenagers.

A Fine Eatery

“The school was just three blocks away, so this was where the kids came before school and had breakfast if mom and dad worked. This was the place they would come after all the sporting events,” says owner Ruth Gunter. “They come back in and tell me stories of when they went to school. This is where they met their wife, and stuff like that. Or ‘Mom and Dad would come in on Fridays and pay my bill.’” By the 1970s, the diner was due for a change. The head cook bought the place, continuing it under the same name until the Gunters purchased it in 2013, thanks to a comment made by their youngest child. “He said, ‘Mom, I don’t know why you guys keep wasting your money, because you can cook anything better than we can buy in any restaurant,’” Gunter recalls. Sometime after that conversation, the Gunters discovered that Evergreen was up for sale. “We were thinking of changing the name,” Gunter says. “Then when our daughter came home from Indy and we asked her about changing the name, she said, ‘No you can’t change it because everyone is going to say, “Let’s go down to that restaurant that used to be Evergreen.’”

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530 Main St. • Rochester Reservations Recommended

Tuesday-Wednesday 11-9 Thursday 8am-9pm Friday & Saturday 8am-10pm Sunday 8am-3pm Shorter Hours During Winter Months Closed Monday

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 43

For Gunter, owning an upscale restaurant was the next step in her career. She had been working in restaurants, many of which had been high-end, for most of her adult life. However, opening a fine dining restaurant in a small, country town like Rochester was a gutsy move by everyone’s estimation. “I thought it would go, but I didn’t think it would go over this well,” she says. When the restaurant opened, Gunter wanted a business that would keep herself and a few employees happy. Fate, however, had different ideas. In an ironic twist, Evergreen grew quickly — thanks to their location. Now that they’ve been open for six years, the restaurant draws people from a 70-mile radius on a regular basis. Occasionally, they are also a venue for reunions. “We’ve had people from Ohio, Illinois, Southern Indiana, and Michigan. This is the restaurant they picked,” Gunter adds. Beyond a perfect location, Evergreen also has a perfect menu that stays fresh by changing every season with special menus on the holidays. “Fresh fish is what we ended up being known for,” Gunter says. “We truly do fresh fish — it’s not frozen. All of the same fish they get in Chicago, I have here.” To add to that, the fish comes into 44 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

Evergreen whole and it is filleted in-house. “Most of our fish is 8 oz., so it’s a nice sized portion,” she adds. Another thing that sets Evergreen apart is that they understand allergies. “Once you start it fresh, then you can change it per what the customer needs,” Gunter says.

food and make sure there’s nothing on it.’” For Gunter, Evergreen isn’t just a way to make a living in a small community. It’s a way to maintain the philosophy of excellence she and her husband developed together. “Once I taste the best, my guests just don’t have to settle for less,” Gunter says.

That goes for everything: the individual ingredients, their award-winning steambaked six-layer cakes, their catering and “I do have someone who comes in here and their friendly service. she says this is the only restaurant that she For Gunter, it’s a matter of course. “People can eat at because usually she heads off to the hospital after eating,” Gunter says. “She love food and when it’s good, people will has that severe of an allergy. She knows she drive for it,” she says. can call and let us know that she’s coming in. So we let the kitchen know, ‘Hey, when Evergreen is located at 530 Main St., she gets here, you’re going to have to use a Rochester. For more information, visit brand new spatula, you’re going to have to them online at evergreeneatery.com or give clean that grill off where you’re cooking her them a call at 574-223-3837. They are even willing to accommodate extreme allergies.

A great selection of Christmas Decorations and gifts are in stock!

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thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 45

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THE PULASKI CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: LOCAL TRADITION RETURNS THROUGH NEW YEAR’S EVE Writer / Mary Lowry Photography Provided

Christmas is often considered a season of light, and in Pulaski, it’s for good reason. Every year, the town constructs a holiday light experience like no other. With multiple themes, like Noah’s Ark, a village, and even a giant whale, the annual tradition draws in spectators from all over. The tradition first started in 1989, after two community members, Bill Reutebach and Bryce Crist, decided to decorate. It started out humbly, with just two decorations. “When they first started, they went out and dug up a Christmas tree, planted it and decorated it. That was the first decoration and a train that Bryce built,” says Dan Reutebach, son of founder, Bill.

to the event, building more decorations. Under Hoover, the committee decided to begin purchasing additional decorations. “Tim Kuhn, he took over as president of the Christmas Lights Committee, and he decided that the town needed something big,” Dan explains. “So he and Father Ron decided to build something big, so they built the arch inside his tool shed. They spent over $300 or $400 building it, and it’s been the showcase ever since.” Today, the town has hundreds of decorations spread all throughout the community. Visitors are invited to follow the loop and are advised to keep an eye out for this year’s new decoration: a towering 20-foot tall lighted Christmas tree. It’s not just the official decorations you should keep an eye out for, though. The locals also decorate their homes, adding even more to the experience. And without the locals, Dan expresses, the tradition would not be able to happen. Volunteers help significantly every year, working to set up the lights.

The men worked to add more decorations over the years, often building things themselves. Bryce ended up constructing half a dozen more decorations before his passing. Shortly after, his wife, Barbara, got involved with the tradition. She formed the first Pulaski Christmas Lights Committee. Mann Hoover served as the first president of “We always put the lights up the weekend the committee. He significantly contributed before Thanksgiving,” he says. “On

Saturday, we put up all of the big stuff and on Sunday we put up the rest of the decorations. It’s kind of the kids’ day. All the kids are out and running around. We usually have 50 to 80 volunteers that help put them out. That Sunday we always have a carry-in dinner that night after we’re done putting them up. Santa is there, and all the kids can get their candy.” The volunteers are not the only ones that make this annual tradition possible, though. Committee members, including President Beu Johnson, work year-round to make it a success. Members June Kestle, Johnny Miller, and Mary Swayze have never missed a meeting of the committee. “[We also want to give] thanks from our community to Paul and Brenda Gilsinger for the use of their lots for displays and storage of decorations all these years,” Dan says. The Pulaski Christmas Lights Committee will be hosting a fundraiser soon: on December 8 they will have their annual Christmas lights auction. The event is set to begin at 7 pm at Bill & Babe’s, located at 5658 S Main Street in Pulaski. “We have about 20 things we auction off.

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 47

We have about 70 to 80 people that show up for it,” Dan explains. “It has grown, and we get a lot of donations. Little by little, [people have] brought it in, and different people bring [decorations] in, and they’ve got some really nice stuff.” Also at Bill & Babe’s, visitors are welcome to donate to the event. With thousands of dollars of repairs to do every year, it can be difficult to have enough money to purchase new decorations. By donating, you can get your name written on an angel, a bell, or a sleigh, and your name will be up on the wall all season. “You just pull into town, and they’ve got little arrows. It’s about four blocks long, and you make the circle around town,” Dan explains. You can view the Pulaski Christmas Lights from the weekend before Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. The lights are on between 5 pm and 10 pm. There is no admission cost. Try our Famous Hand Breaded Broasted Pork Chops and Broasted Potatoes

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Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Eurrat Saylor, owner of Saylor’s Custom Butchering, 11115 E. 500 N., Grovertown, Indiana, says taking good care of your customers will always keep your business moving in the right direction. He knows what he’s talking about. To say he has been a butcher for many years would be an understatement. “I started butchering about 59 years ago,” the 85-year old Saylor says. “I started as a butcher in Kingsford Heights, Indiana, and I learned early how to do it right.” Over the years, Saylor noted that among his jobs, he worked at a slaughterhouse in Plymouth, Indiana for 11 years. “They raised the prices and switched meats, so I left,” he says. “I didn’t want to work there anymore.” Saylor has lived a colorful life. In 1954, he went to serve his country in Korea. “I know the exact amount of time I was there. I was there one year, four months, and 10 days,” Saylor says. “You don’t forget that!” He says that during his working life, he also worked at the Kingsbury Locker Plant. He eventually decided to open his own business. “I opened Saylor’s Custom Butchering In 1995,” Saylor says. “I’ve really enjoyed this job. I like what I’m doing, and I really like our customers.” Saylor’s Custom Butchering is familyowned and operated. The meat is processed to the customer’s specifications, and the meats are also cut, seasoned, smoked, wrapped and frozen. Saylor’s specializes in beef, pork and lamb. They get orders from all over Indiana. “I think we have done well because we do what the customers want us to do,” Saylor says. “We make sure the customer is happy with our service.”

Saylor’s gets a lot of business from word of mouth too. “We have a lot of people come in here and tell us that their family or friends were happy with what we have done,” Saylor says. “I like that. It means we have done things right, and they want to keep coming back for more.”

“The county fairs also give us some good business,” Saylor says. “We tell people they can support the kids and fill their freezer at the same time.” When you visit Saylor’s, you can’t miss Popeye the Sailor Man, a character Saylor loves, on their outdoor sign.

“I’m crazy about Popeye the way I’m crazy Saylor notes that they get good reviews from about our customers, so come on in,” he their loyal customers, who also comment says. “We will take care of you!” that they are satisfied with their prices. Saylor’s Custom Butchering is located at “It will be just the way you want, and you 11115 E. 500 N. in Grovertown, Indiana. get the animal you bring in back too, but For more information, visit them online at in easier to handle packages,” he says.”Our saylors-custom-butchering.business.site or turn around time is also fast. We know how give them a call at 574-867-6949. to process the meats quick, especially if you need it for an upcoming family gathering or something like that.” Saylor’s Custom Butchering has hosted “Meat and Money Shoots,” where the whole family is encouraged to shoot. During the events, they have special kids shoots and a fire pit.

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 49

Owners Jim & Sue Kast

OW NER TA L K S A BO U T THE T R ANSFOR MAT ION OF THE F ORMER M A NSIO N INTO A QUAINT BED & BR EAKFA S T Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

who has owned various small businesses throughout her adult life.

Once upon a time, it was just a mansion built as a Christmas gift from Ralph Braun, the founder and CEO of the Braun Corporation, for his wife in the late 1990s. At 16,000 square feet, this artful piece of architecture was nestled in 40 acres of beautiful gardens, making it the perfect home for the Winamac couple.

“At first it wasn’t so much the bed and breakfast,” she says. “It was the idea of having events. I just thought the property was so attractive.” But when the Braun Corporation approached them about allowing corporate visitors to rent rooms in the mansion, the idea of opening a bed and breakfast was born. In June 2016, they welcomed their first overnight guests and have been doing it ever since.

After Braun’s death, it was purchased by Sue and Jim Kast. The idea of owning an event venue and B&B was the next adventure for them, especially for Sue,

After a few renovations, the house was ready for company with three suites, each of which can fit up to five people. “We’re always looking for something that we can share with other people and it was the kind of property that you would want to share with someone else,” Kast says. Improvements are ever in the wind for a homeowner, and the Kasts are no exception. “We’re thinking a couple more rooms might work out well,” says Kast, who went on to describe a honeymoon suite with a jacuzzi. “We’re thinking about making it a special

50 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

kind of room that people would really enjoy staying in and doing something unique that you wouldn’t normally do in other places.” As a veteran small business owner, Kast understands the importance of individual care to customers. “When people come for breakfast, we ask them when they check-in, ‘What time do you want breakfast? What are the kind of things you like?’ We’ll do a whole variety of things depending on them,” Kast says. “Sometimes people ask for things we haven’t done before, haven’t even thought about doing, so I’ll make the effort to go out and buy it that night and have it prepared the next day for them.”

Medical and Surgical Group

Beyond food, Kast puts a lot of TLC into every aspect of the business, something that can be seen in every corner of her establishment. Opening their home as an event venue for weddings, parties, conferences and an assortment of other activities is one of Kast’s favorite parts of the business. The other thing about Mill Creek that she loves is the gardens surrounding her home — and her passion for the outdoors shows. Beginning in the fall, Kast spends hours pulling the dying annual flowers, planting some perennials and winterizing the ground. “You think the fall before about what you want to look at in the spring,” she says. Then she spends the winter obtaining seeds and seedlings, cultivating them inside until the danger of frost is over. “We’ll plant some of those things we can’t get at the local nursery so that we have some of the unusual things we can plant in our landscape,” Kast adds. “It’s fun. You look through catalogs, you see what you might want to buy and then plant those.”

The staff of Pulaski Memorial Hospital Medical and Surgical Group works diligently to provide groundbreaking services and care to the residents of Pulaski County and surrounding communities. With twenty-one excellent physicians and nurse practitioners operating clinics in four convenient locations, our team is dedicated to providing “Quality Healthcare, Closer To Home.” Medical Office Locations Winamac • Francesville • North Judson • Monterey

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616 E. 13th St., Winamac, IN • (574) 946-2100 • www.pmhnet.com thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 51

In the spring, though, the magic begins, as Kast and her master gardener, Ginger Reames, plant and maintain the garden through the warmer months. Of course, for the holiday season, the Kasts transform the B&B into a magical winter wonderland. “I like to do Christmas,” she says. “I like decorating and I’ve always done those kinds of things. I like the cold and the frostiness and I like the lights. It’s something I like to be involved in.”

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Some traditions come back every year, like the special holiday china and the elf hat chair covers. Other parts of the décor changes.

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“We try to make it special,” Kast says. “Every year, I think about things and how we might change it up in terms of lighting and colors and what goes together. There’s always something new you might want to try out.” All in all, it’s the perfect fit for the Kasts. “I enjoy doing it,” she says. “We’re accomplishing what we wanted to do in that we want to have a venue in the community that’s a nice place to bring someone. Someone can come in and enjoy themselves.” Mill Creek Gardens is located at 1351 E. County Road 250 S. in Winamac. Give them a call at 574216-9070 or visit them online at themillcreekgardens.com for more information.

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(574) 936-8787 1409 N Michigan St • Plymouth Plymouth Family Dental Care thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 53

M I N T C IT Y MILLWOR K P ROVI D ES CU STOM ER S WI TH UNIQUE , HAND C RAF TED C LOC K S Writer / Mary Lowry Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Attention to detail, combined with good customer service, is a tale as old as time for Wayne Helmuth, owner of Mint City Millwork in Bremen. The shop has been open since 1992 but has undergone many makeovers. Originally a customized furniture store, it switched over to kitchenware years later. Helmuth knew that his path was building clocks after he constructed his first grandfather clock in 2001. Today, the Amish business sells handmade grandfather clocks, mantel clocks, wall clocks and weather stations.

Helmuth has always had an interest in building clocks, though. When he was beginning to date his wife, the first gift he ever gave her was a clock he made on his own.

creating wall clocks that are, quite literally, works of art. The unique clocks were originally thought of in 2013 when Helmuth was working with an auction company. They were looking for a clock that would play an “I had bought it as a kid and assembled auctioneers’ chant at the top of every hour. it and gave it to her,” he says. “It was As he built that, Helmuth thought about something I always had an interest in, but I other kinds of things that people could have had never really tried it until after we were played in their clocks. He soon realized trying to do furniture and kitchens. In 2001, that Gospel music could play, and Mint I did my first grandfather clock, and once we City Millwork started selling clocks playing started in grandfather clocks, I kind of knew Gospel music in 2015. that was where we wanted to stay at.” “When we were doing [the auctioneer] Today, the focus has shifted from clocks, I figured that we could do Gospel handcrafting beautiful grandfather clocks to music,” Helmuth says. “I checked around, 54 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

and the auction company didn’t want anything to do with it, so with that in mind, we started doing clocks with Gospel music in 2015. From there, it’s just picked up over the years.” The wall clocks are hugely popular. They help to bring in a focus on local businesses, too. Helmuth intentionally looks to support the community by getting recordings for the clocks from local music artists and groups. The clocks feature artwork on the front, looking to inspire the customer. The artwork can be selected from the vast compilation provided by Mint City Millwork or customers can have their own image placed on the clock. It can be a high-resolution photo, a painting, a charcoal rendering or a sketch. Handcrafting all of the clocks in the shop is one of Helmuth’s favorite parts. He loves getting to talk with customers, and he loves getting to use his hands to create works of art.

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535 5B Rd.• Bremen, IN 46506 thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 55

Open Mon - Fri 8am to 4pm Saturday 8am to Noon 3121 Birch Rd. Bremen

“I like doing the handwork, but I also like the interaction with customers in the showroom,” he says. “[Making the clocks is] probably the part that I enjoy the most. I like doing work with my hands. We’re always doing new designs, and it allows us to free up some of our creative ideas and put them into use.” The customized clocks are not the only unique thing about the business, though. The name Mint City Millwork is striking. Helmuth explains that Mint City is a nickname for Bremen. In the past, Bremen was a hotspot for growing mint. Helmuth lives now on his family farm, where his grandfather grew mint years ago. “Bremen, at one time, the town was known for mint,” Helmuth says. “Peppermint, spearmint, that kind of stuff. My grandfather used to raise mint on the farm. Now we’re the third generation on the farm, and we don’t have anything to do with mint anymore, but it’s very interesting.”

Allison Kara 574.936.2556 | 2159 N. Oak Dr. Suite 3 | allisonkarainsurance.com 56 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

If you are interested in Mint City Millwork and their beautiful, handcrafted clocks or weather stations, feel free to get in touch with them. Their showroom is located at 3121 Birch Road in Bremen. You can give them a call at 574-209-1351 or visit them online at mintcitymillwork.com.

Owners Julio & Maricruz Ledezma with Chef Otniel Obed Ruiz

MEXICAN CUISINE & PANCAKE HOUSE IS A CULVER FAVORITE Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

When patrons dine at Frida’s Mexican Cuisine & Pancake House, they don’t leave hungry. The Culver restaurant offers generous portions and outstanding service, and owners Maricruz and Julio Ledezma ensure that every customer is happy before they leave. They say it has been that way since they started on June 24. Opening Frida’s was a long-time goal for the Ledezmas. “Like almost every story, our story first felt like a dream,” Maricruz says. “Now I can say, ‘dreams really do come true.’ We always wondered how things were going to be once it all started coming together.” They wanted a place that was special and served a wide range of different menu items. “Frida’s is not only a restaurant that serves

Mexican cuisine, but also a pancake house,” Maricruz says. “We serve breakfast all day, as well as fresh margaritas. Having a variety of food and drink options is what our customers like.” The local community has responded very positively to the restaurant. “Since day one, the community has given us a huge, warm welcome,” Maricruz says. “Many have said that they are thankful we decided to open up here in Culver. They want us to stay, and we want to stay, which is why we work hard for the community. We have become a part of this magical town.” Loyal customers already have their favorites. “One of our popular dishes is the Carnitas dinner,” Maricruz says. “That is a traditional plate from Michoacán, Mexico. The technique to cook them so deliciously is a secret. The Farmer’s Burger is another popular dish. We stack the beef patty with a fried egg, cheese, and onion rings. Our crepes with Nutella are a must-try! They’re

very popular with the academy students.” Maricruz has her own personal favorite. “Al Pastor tacos are great too! I love the flavor of the meat, especially with cilantro, onion, and lime. Of course, everything must be washed down with some refreshing horchata.” Horchata is a refreshing Mexican drink made with rice, milk, vanilla and cinnamon. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

The Ledezmas like to stay involved with a lot of people in Culver. “We feel so lucky to be a part of the community,” Maricruz says. “We have been invited to participate in a few activities, like The Wine Fair and The Lake Max Half Marathon. And in the future, we will be working with The Culver Boys & Girls Club, like having a tip night to support the program.”

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 57

Maricruz added that many customers have commented on Frida’s décor. “Our customers also seem to enjoy our decorations around the restaurant, as well as the artwork,” she says. “Many of the decorations are even handmade from my family in Mexico. What really catches the attention of people, are the paintings on the walls my daughter created.” Maricruz has already seen a lot of repeat business, thanks to the tasty food. “I always say our chef, Otniel Obed Ruiz, cooks with love,” she says. “He is very focused and passionate about his food work. He brings flavor from Oaxaca, Mexico. A lot of our customers love his secret salsa, some of them come in only to take it to go.” Frida’s Mexican Cuisine & Pancake House is located at 18571 State Rd 10 in Culver. For more information, such as its hours of operation, give them a call at 574-842-2414.

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kingsmenconcrete@gmail.com (574)216-0354 • Culver, Indiana 58 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2019 / thelakesmagazine.com

HANDMADE, CUSTOM KEEPSAKE BASKETS ARE A HIT FOR THE HOLIDAYS Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

It all began because of chickens. Six years ago, Chris Ingram discovered the perfect basket to carry eggs in from the chicken coop on her small farm in North Judson. Her investigation revealed that they were called clothesline baskets and she found herself making them in different shapes and sizes. When other people saw them, they were captivated as well and her business Coop de Chick was born. “I have always had an interest in crafting which I come by naturally as both of my grandmothers were avid crafters,” she says. “Until I discovered clothesline baskets though, I had never found a passion for anything specific. I immediately fell in love with them. They reminded me of old quilts and old rag rugs, two of my favorites. “I pulled out my mom’s old sewing machine and started researching and sewing,” Ingram adds. “I remember being so excited about my first basket. I shared them with my then co-workers and have not stopped sewing since. I started a Facebook page and everything just grew from there.” Clothesline baskets are colorful and typically round, although they can be made to hold rectangular casserole dishes, too. They are assembled by sewing clothesline that has been wrapped in narrow strips of

fabric. Used for all kinds of purposes, they can preserve memories as well. “There are a variety of memory products in today’s market, but I thought the baskets would be something completely new,” Ingram says. “I put out a post on my Facebook about wanting to make memory baskets and the response was immediate. I can use many different types of fabric, from cotton shirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, pajamas, flannels and denim, but I cannot use sweaters or anything that is too thin or crazy thick. “There have been instances where people

have held on to clothing items for more than 20 years and have entrusted me to create special keepsakes. A mother brought me her own wedding dress to be made into two baskets, one for her daughter’s upcoming wedding and one for her son’s future wedding. When she came to pick them up, she brought her daughter and surprised her with the basket. There were happy tears and lots of hugs. They were going to use the basket to collect wedding cards at the reception.” For several years, Ingram has partnered with another local artist, April Neace, who creates designs etched in glass pieces such as

thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 59

bowls and baking dishes. Inserting Neace’s creations increases the functionality of the baskets. Popular combinations of the two crafts are the cookie and dog treat jars as well as the personalized bowls. Prices range from $15 for a mini-heart basket to $100 for a one-foot tall magazine basket. Among the many other items offered are placemats, trivets and coasters. Custom sizes and shapes are available. Ingram is happy to take special requests. So why is her basket business called Coop de Chick? “The name Coop de Chick actually came from my husband,” Ingram says. “When we were building our chicken coop, he one day jokingly referred to it as ‘Coup de Chick’ as in Coup de Ville. I changed that spelling to Coop to relate to my chickens.” Visit CoopdeChick.com for more information and to order clothesline baskets.

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Koontz Lake Santa Lunch at the Koontz Lake Clubhouse followed by Christmas carols with P.T. Cruiser, Paul Thode

C U LV E R CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND PARADE

A Unique Boutique Filled with Gifts & Home Decor

DECEMBER 6 | 6:00 P.M. EST

Christmas Tree lighting and Parade in the Culver Town Park

HOLIDAY HOP

DECEMBER 7 | 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. EST

CULVERS FARMERS MARKET DECEMBER 7 | 9:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. EST At the Culver-Union Township Public Library.

CULVER-UNION TOWNSHIP LIBRARY OPEN HOUSE DECEMBER 7 | 10:00 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. EST Santa will be here 10am - Noon, Cindy Boener on the harp from noon - 1:30. Light refreshments will be available.

KNOX PEPPERMINT PARADE DECEMBER 7 | 3:30 P.M.

Santa’s coming to town, followed by Santa’s House in Wythogan Park. Get your picture with Santa and hot chocolate.

DECEMBER 7 | 5:00 P.M.

Christmas tree lighting in the Wythogan Park

119 W Ninth St. • Rochester (574) 223-WEST

Knox - Winamac Community Health Center Caring for your healthcare needs since 2007

Knox-Winamac Community Health Center is a private non-profit agency providing affordable high-quality, primary care to residents of Starke and Pulaski Counties.

Walter Fritz, MD

Lori Truesdell, LCSW

We accept Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurances. We have a Sliding Fee Scale available to qualified individuals which can significantly reduce the cost of your office visit.

Services Available Primary and Preventive care • Physical Examinations Employment • Sports • School Physicals Well Child Checks • Immunizations • Chronic Disease Mangagement Laboratory Service • Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings Management Women’s Health Screenings and Annual Exams • Behavioral Healthcare

Elizabeth Moerman, MSN, APRN, FNP

Tracy Haddix, NP

Open Monday thru Friday and every Saturday until noon

Kim McCullough, NP

1002 S. Edgwood Drive Knox, IN 46534 | 574-772-6030

MAGAZINE If you are not in our designated monthly mailing route you can find a few thousand paper copies of the Lakes Magazine spread over 100+ area businesses throughout the following region: Argos, Bass Lake, Bremen, Culver, Delong, Donaldson, Hamlet, Koontz Lake, Knox, Monterey, Nappanee, North Judson, Plymouth, Rochester, Walkerton & Winamac

DID YOU MISS AN ISSUE OR WANT TO READ THE LAKES MAGAZINE ON THE GO? Download our free FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES App on your digital CONTACT PUBLISHER JOHN LEWANDOWSKI device. Go to The Lakes Magazine on Google Play (574)249-9217 or The App JOHN@TOWNEPOST.COM Store. thelakesmagazine.com / DECEMBER 2019 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 63

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JayH Construction, LLC Quality Construction at an Affordable Price New Homes â&#x20AC;¢ Room Additions Roofing Shingles or Metal roofs Interior/Exterior Remodeling All Types of Residential Construction Fully Insured

574-453-7938 www.jayhconstruction.com

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