The Lakes Magazine March 2023

For

42

CRANK IT UP

TOWNE

FOUNDER/CEO

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

ERIN TURK

JOSH BROWN

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

TONI EADS

VAL AUSTIN

COPY EDITORS

JON SHOULDERS

Emilee & Ivy’s Vendor Mall

12

THE HUB Owner Realizes Longtime Dream With Hub Barber Shop

17

COME HUNGRY Dive Into a Deep Menu and Delicious Flavors at Scoops & Smiles in Knox

22 SOLID FOUNDATIONS Pittman Masonry Construction Is Built on Family and Quality

29 REVOLUTIONARY SERVICES Chapelle Medical Aesthetics Makes Lasting Changes for Each Patient

35

DEVOTED TO DEVELOPMENT Growing Kids Learning Center Is Still Helping to Mold Minds After Nearly 30 Years

40 MARCH CROSSWORD

Straight Forward Entertainment Brings a Lively Show to Audiences Every Time

48

LAVENDER LOVE

Cooking Power in a Flower

53

GARFIELD, CLIFFORD, OZ, AND MORE — OH MY!

Indiana Produced a Host of Legendary Children’s Characters

59

CLEARING THE AIR JR’s Mold Remediation Owner Talks Residential and Commercial Services

64

CRYSTAL CLEAR SUCCESS Sticks & Stones Curiosity Shop Opens in Knox

69

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MARCH AT THE LAKES

Emilee & Ivy’s Vendor Mall, owned by Debbi and Richard Yakas, has been open since September, and it is a shopper’s dream. It offers visitors the experience of perusing more than 50 booths in its 10,000-squarefoot space. As a sister store to R & D Flea Market, it not only adds to the destination shopping of Plymouth, but it also gives other retailers the chance to sell their goods.

“We have owned R & D Flea Market for seven years, and when the possibility of opening a vendor mall seemed likely, we thought of it as an extension of the flea market,” says Debbi Yakas. “On Thursday, July 23 we found out that the Sears store at 7628 Michigan Road was closing. The next day we were in contact with the leasing people, and by Monday we were in talks. By July 29 we had signed the papers.”

“We love the flea-market feel, but here the aisles are wider and it’s not just our merchandise,” Yakas adds. “I wanted it to be full of booths selling a diverse amount of goods so it appeals to more people. It’s not a flea market, and although we have some antiques, it’s not an antique mall. With high gas and grocery prices plus people watching their budget, we wanted most things to be affordable. There are a lot of items priced at 50 cents to a dollar. The most expensive right now is $800.”

The building provides the perfect space for a vendor mall. Located in front of Plymouth Municipal Airport, it is close to restaurants,

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Tony Straw

Debbi Yakas and her granddaughter Emilee.

hotels and other retail establishments. Natural light floods through large windows and there is plenty of parking. When the call went out for booth rentals, the vendors came out in droves.

“Vendors selling a huge variety of stuff came to us,” Yakas says. “I just put it out there, mostly on Facebook, and we had a printed-up paper that we handed out at our flea market. We set up appointments and vendors were able to pick out the 10’x10’ spot they wanted. Some wanted double spaces. Another wanted glass display cases. We tried to make as many spaces as we could. Some had been on the waiting list of other shops for two to two and a half years. We wanted to encourage others to have a chance to sell their stuff. We ended up with a variety of vendors selling thousands of items. We did not allow alcohol, cigarettes, guns or ammunition sales. The waiting list is capped at 30 and it has been full since November.”

The vendor mall truly has something for everyone. Just a few steps away from a booth selling rare antiques is another selling personal items such as deodorant and toilet paper. Other items sold include white, shabby-chic, chalk-painted furniture, as well as vintage LEGO sets, handmade soap, pencil drawings, toys, handmade jewelry, clothes, decorations and so much more.

“We have one lady who has a booth and 100% of her profits go to benefit missions in Haiti,” Yakas says. “She restocks weekly with donated goods such as books, decorations, purses or even small furniture. Another person had to close her own shop due to medical issues but can still sell items by renting a booth here. She doesn’t have to be here on her bad days because every vendor has a number and we record sales when customers check out.”

Yakas keeps a list of five similar shops located close by. People can make a day out of shopping at similar stores. Besides

resale-type establishments, destination visitors can enjoy niche shops in downtown Plymouth.

So who are Emilee and Ivy? The name comes from granddaughters who love garage sales and staging shelves. Since the girls’ parents have no interest in the

business, it was named after them.

“People don’t understand the variety the vendor mall has until they walk in the door,” Yakas says. “It could keep somebody busy all day. When we opened it up, we thought we would just see what happens. So far it’s crazy good - way beyond what we

thought. We get a lot of positive feedback from regulars as well as first-timers. People from out of town bring their sisters and friends. They say they just love this place.”

Emilee & Ivy’s Vendor Mall is located at 7628 Michigan Road in Plymouth. Visit on Facebook for more info.

THE HUB

OWNER REALIZES LONGTIME DREAM WITH HUB BARBER SHOP

There was a specific type of business missing from Culver and Darlean Dimmock knew what it was – an old-fashioned-type

barber shop. So, she opened the Hub Barber Shop and Shave on Main Street. Housed in an old brick building across from the library, The Hub has that old-timey feel. A black and white color

scheme and big black leather and shiny chrome barber chairs at the front window evokes nostalgia. It’s designed to be reminiscent of when barber shops were the gathering place for conversation in downtown, in other words – a hub.

Just like those older times, no appointments are taken. It’s walk-in only and prices are kept simple.

“Men don’t like to make appointments [for these services],” she explains.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer Tony Straw

Owner/Baraber Darlean Dimmock and Baraber Cayla Arthurhultz

Dimmock also offers something that is hard to find – straight-razor shaves.

“My customers can’t believe it’s available,” Dimmock says. “A lot of people come in asking for it.”

A straight-razor shave is more than simply removing beard growth. There is a lot of pampering in the process. The customer is always made to feel comfortable, no matter what the service is, but especially during a shave. Hot towels are used to soften the hair for the razor.

“When they are relaxed, I start with the razor,” Dimmock says.

Some customers request a full head shave, too.

“It’s been a dream of mine to open a barber shop,” Dimmock says. “Some very good friends of mine are barbers.”

Those friends, the barbers at Boar’s Head in Rochester, mentored her and helped her train for this new venture. Dimmock is retired from a career in the financial sector, but has always felt called toward this kind of work. She said she would routinely notice when her former clients would come in with new haircuts. Citing her already-developed people skills and her interest in haircutting, becoming a barber seemed a natural fit.

Dimmock attended Barber School in LaPorte. After completing her training, she worked for different people to hone her skills, all with the goal of opening her own shop. That hard work paid off in November, when The Hub opened for business.

“I want my customers to feel comfortable coming in here,” she says. “I really am a people person, I cater to my customers. I even sometimes go the extra mile even if I don’t have to.”

Licensed barber Cayla Arthurhultz also works in the shop on Fridays

and Saturdays. Many of Arthurhultz’s customers followed her to The Hub, Dimmock says.

The price list is simple and direct. There are no fancy packages or services that someone does not want or need. Cost of services varies from $10 for a beard trim to $40 for a haircut and shave. Children under 12 get a discount on haircuts. Seniors over 62 also receive a discount.

“I like that I don’t have to worry about my customers not being able to afford a service,” she says. “Especially those on a fixed income.”

Culver is special to Dimmock, and she has a connection here. She went to Culver High School. She appreciates the mix of potential customers that may come her way. From year-round residents to the summer season visitors to the cadets at Culver Academy, she is ready to welcome all for a little pampering.

Dimmock is thankful for the support and encouragement she has received from the decision to open her barber shop. She credits her faith in God, the mentorship and friendship of her barber friends, and her family and friends.

“Culver has always been a nice little spot,” Dimmock says. “I kept an eye out and noticed we haven’t had a barber shop here. [Opening up The Hub] has been one of the best decisions in my life.”

The Hub Barber Shop is located at 110 North Main Street in Culver. The shop is open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

COME HUNGRY

Dive Into a Deep Menu and Delicious Flavors at Scoops & Smiles in Knox

Nestled into a curve on the south side of Bass Lake is a familyrun restaurant called Scoops & Smiles. The building has been many things over the years, serving the local community and the scores of visitors coming to enjoy the lake. It was once a snack shop, a barbecue spot, and then an ice cream stand and hot dog concessionaire. Today it has developed a new identity as a family-friendly place to get tasty food and warm welcomes.

Managed by Jesse and Dannell Escalante, Scoops & Smiles serves more than 20 flavors of ice cream - more during the summer season - and hot dogs, which were on the menu when the Escalantes took over three years ago. Today the menu has grown to offer more variety, such as burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, baskets and loaded fries.

To be successful when his restaurant only seats about 30 people, Jesse Escalante says he is motivated by continuing to offer something different. Taco Tuesdays is one of the ways Escalante sets his restaurant apart. The weekly special offers tacos priced at $3 each. Diners get their choice of meat - beef, brisket and steak every week, and fish, chicken or pork on occasion.

Among the most popular items on the menu at Scoops & Smiles are burgers. Don’t think that these burgers are restricted to beef only, although that is certainly an option.

The burger selections also include the Hawaiian Burger, featuring ham and pineapple with Swiss cheese and chipotle barbecue sauce. For those who crave spicy food, there’s a burger for that - the Inferno Burger, which includes a beef patty, pepper jack cheese, fried jalapeños, chipotle and a jalapeño popper.

Escalante says the Carne Asada Fries, one of five different loaded choices, are also very popular. This plate of fries is served with queso, marinated steak, pico de gallo and guacamole.

The Escalantes also cater events with a specialized menu that includes comfort foods like fried chicken or beef and noodles.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Jesse Escalante, Dannell Escalante, Julian Escalante, Isabella Escalante.

This menu has been very popular, Escalante says. Some of his regular customers include churches and factories.

“I’ve been a cook for years,” Escalante says.

Gaining that experience has taken him to Key West, where he learned how to cook seafood, to Oklahoma City, Houston, and finally to Knox where he worked as a kitchen manager.

Cooking is his passion, Escalante says, and he enjoys adding new selections to the menu, including steaks and the occasional daily specials like sirloin tips and mashed potatoes, surf-and-turf

stuffed baked potato, pot roast, and stuffed peppers. Daily specials are posted on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Scoops & Smiles is also an advantage

for the Escalantes because it is close to home. They are the only caregivers for Reyes, their 16-year-old son. Reyes became severely disabled after being exposed to an infection at three months

of age. The care of their oldest child is a priority and the couple balances that care with running the restaurant.

Escalante says he hopes to create a legacy

for his other children. In addition to Reyes, the couple has a 13-year-old and a 10-year-old.

“My 13-year-old loves helping out here,” Escalante says. “He comes and works here after school.”

Life hasn’t always been easy for the Escalantes. Taking care of their son has brought financial hardship and zero opportunities for vacation time. Their lives revolve around their family and the business they run.

Escalante made the decision that if anyone comes to the restaurant hungry but does not have the money to pay for a meal, he will simply give it to them.

“No one should go hungry,” Escalante says. “I know what a lot of people go through.”

Escalante also sees it as a way to give back to the community for the support and caring that has been bestowed on the couple and their children.

“Our customers support us,” he says. Their continued support will bring changes for Scoops & Smiles. Escalante says plans call for replacing the furnace, adding central air conditioning and an expansion in the future.

Scoops & Smiles is located at 5820 South 600 East in Knox. For more information, call 574-249-5440 or visit their Facebook page @scoopsandsmiles1.

Solid Foundations

PITTMAN MASONRY CONSTRUCTION IS BUILT ON FAMILY AND QUALITY

Branden Pittman is a very busy man these days. And that’s perfectly fine with him.

He fully knows and appreciates his blessings, because he has traveled a long road to reach this moment in time, one in which he’s become a proud entrepreneur. Along that path to today, Pittman has learned a great deal about life, loss and inspiration, all of which he has incorporated into his business, known as Pittman Masonry Construction.

Pittman Masonry Construction, LLC, was officially instituted on May 25, 2021, specializing in stone veneer installations, block foundations, and a wide array of customization work in both home and business designs, to name just a few. Pittman Masonry has rapidly developed a diverse customer base among homeowners and contractors alike, largely due to their family-oriented focus and dedication to quality and detail.

“I feel that actions speak louder than words, and with that being said, we strive to prove our work ethic and show what we here at Pittman Masonry can do,” Pittman says. “I want all of my clients and contractors to know that Pittman Masonry Construction offers quality you can trust. We take pride in all the work we do.”

Yet the foundation of Pittman Masonry is about far more than just brick and stone. Pittman grew up in the city of Plymouth, and was raised with the values of a strong and loving family that instilled in him the importance of workmanship. Even after the loss of one of his greatest role models, those early lessons live on

“Growing up, my father owned and operated two businesses, and for me, I just thought how amazing the feeling was to be able to help dad, and also work for what I wanted, which was to race,” Pittman recalls. “He had always had a passion for racing but could never afford it growing up, so one of his goals was to be able to give me a chance to live out a dream that he had personally. After two long years of trying to get the businesses going, he eventually had someone run the businesses and he went back to work full time as a lineman.”

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Jeremy Lesher & Owner Branden Pittman

Then along came 2018 and Pittman’s world spun entirely off its axis when his beloved father died.

“With the passing of my father, I struggled with some personal issues and I couldn’t keep a stable job because I always found

myself losing interest after a month or two,” Pittman says. “I always found myself asking questions like, ‘Am I even making him proud,’ or, ‘What can I do and be successful and learn?’”

Pittman’s mother then aligned herself with her son’s desire to

Jeremy Lesher, Alysha Pittman & Branden Pittman

achieve and, as Pittman describes it, “has done everything she possibly can do to help me open up my own business.” His career trajectory has launched skyward from that time forward.

“Family is everything to me, and whether you’re a colleague, contractor or homeowner, you will be treated like family and

nothing less,” Pittman promises. “We offer free estimates, and have fast response times to calls that come in through the phone.”

In just the past year alone, Pittman Masonry Construction has been buzzing with excitement and productivity. A new work

Saturday

“I HAVE A HUGE PASSION FOR MASONRY WORK, AS I LEARNED A LOT FROM WATCHING MY FATHER AND GETTING MY HANDS DIRTY HELPING WHENEVER I COULD, OR WHENEVER HE NEEDED MY HELP.”

- BRANDEN PITTMAN

Logo created by owner: “The center represents my father, a warrior, who did whatever he could to make ends meet. The thin red line represents that I am a volunteer Fireman. The logo also includes the American flag and masonry tools that represent our quality and guaranteed work.”

truck and trailer have been added to the business, and they have earned high accolades for creating the signage for Swan Lake Chophouse.

“Business has definitely grown in the past year,” Pittman says. “However, we can continue to get better and get our name out

there.” He is hoping to hire two to three new employees this year, acquire another truck and trailer for the fleet, and work alongside more contractors.

“I have a huge passion for masonry work, as I learned a lot from watching my father and getting my hands dirty helping

whenever I could, or whenever he needed my help,” he says.

Pittman

Masonry Construction maintains an active Facebook presence featuring images of their

Kamado Joe grill package deal includes charcoal, starter block & gel, ash tool & cart

Big Green Egg grill package deal includes charcoal, starter block & gel, ash tool & cart

Revolutionary Services

CHAPELLE MEDICAL AESTHETICS MAKES LASTING CHANGES FOR EACH PATIENT

Imagine walking into an aesthetic medical practice where the atmosphere is serene, where the conversations flow in a relaxed and sanguine manner, and where the focus lights entirely on a patient’s wellness.

Dr. Amy Stitt most certainly can envision all of the above, because it is a culmination of a career journey that has brought Chapelle Medical Aesthetics to Warsaw. Dr. Stitt has been in the Warsaw community for four years and worked to open Chapelle Medical Aesthetics in the past year. Her facility, as she describes it, “provides world-class service, one of the most innovative medical spas in the aesthetic industry, where one comes to experience a health and beauty transformation.”

The revolutionary services offered at Chapelle Medical Aesthetics include neuromodulators, which work to reduce facial lines, and dermal fillers, designed to smooth intense wrinkles. Also available are newer procedures such as biostimulators, collagen builders, plasma and fibrin treatments, sclerotherapy, weight management and facial rejuvenators.

These modern therapies have come about through years of testing and research, and being affiliated with this movement is a very integral part of what Dr. Stitt has incorporated into her practice. She is dedicated to personal consultation, and making sure that she is fully invested in whatever proves to be the most ideal regimen for her patients.

“I will use every opportunity to inspire others to work together in pursuit of a common goal, like enhanced patient care and accountability,” Dr. Stitt says. “As an effective aesthetic provider, I have distinctive qualities - integrity, courage, initiative, experience and an ability to handle stress. I want to be admired for my efforts to think critically, set goals, skillfully communicate and collaborate my expertise with my clients in their aesthetic journey.”

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Ali Snyder

Dr. Amy Stitt

When a prospective client arrives at Chapelle Medical Aesthetics, Dr. Stitt begins forging the personal connection by talking with the patient about their skin-care goals and their aspirations for health and wellness. “I will perform a full facial analysis to come up with a personal treatment plan and recommendations that meet your needs,” Dr. Stitt says. “Chapelle Aesthetics will help you achieve natural, refreshed and balanced results.”

Dr. Stitt will also explain the cost structure of treatments, what to be mindful of beyond the treatment, and suggestions for maintaining the optimum result. “My number-one concern is the safety of our patients,” she says. “My ability to treat each patient individually to meet their goals is what sets me apart. What also sets me apart is listening to each patient’s goals, the products I specifically select for them and my experience.”

Dr. Amy is highly knowledgable and experienced with injectibles like Restalyne, pictured here.

Dr. Stitt has been actively involved in the medical field for more than 26 years. She started her career as a registered nurse working in pediatrics. Dr. Stitt went on to earn a degree as a family nurse practitioner, and with that experience went on to earn her Doctorate of Nurse Practice specializing in aesthetics.

Dr. Stitt is also eager to change the perception of medicine by countering the occasional harshness and tendencies toward impersonal conversations that some clients may have experienced. Her nursing background lends itself to a more nurturing bedside manner. “I implement in my clinical practice by fostering shalom and comfort to my patients in my care, and I honor the core characteristics of nursing such as compassion, advocacy, respect, honesty, patient privacy, confidentiality and time management,” Dr. Stitt says.

Dr. Stitt has become so inspired in this relatively new endeavor that she’s open to sharing her wisdom with others who are drawn to similar callings. “I want to continue in my journey as a lifelong learner and remain up to date with the new technology, treatments and medical advancements,” she says. Her extensive medical training and education has afforded her the skills to teach others how to become providers of dermatological and other similar services as well.

Dr. Stitt is looking forward to some new features this spring including a women’s empowerment event called “The Chapelle Evolution” at Tippy Creek Winery. The affair will focus on each decade of age and the trends of fashion, wellness, weight management and fitness. Chapelle Medical Aesthetics will partner with The Francis Shoppe and Fitness 4U. Stitt is also preparing to launch a YouTube video channel in the coming weeks.

Chapelle Medical Aesthetics is located at 308 South Scott Street in Warsaw. Call 574-253-7856 or visit chapellemedicalaesthetics.com for more information on services and upcoming events.

DEVOTED TO DEVELOPMENT

Growing Kids Learning Center Is Still Helping to Mold Minds After Nearly 30 Years

/ Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Regardless of whatever else changes across the passage of time, there will always be a need to invest in the future of our children. From the moment they are born, our youngsters are learning. In those earliest interactions with the world around them, there are boundless opportunities to stoke their instincts for discovery and curiosity.

These are the principles that are put into practice at Growing Kids Learning Center. Now nearly 30 years strong with nine facilities throughout northern Indiana, Growing Kids Learning Center has solidified its reputation as a premier force in early childhood education.

Just as compelling, meanwhile, is the concept of families helping families. Who better to embrace that ideology than folks with local roots, nurturing children of their own and truly understanding the specific needs of parents and children?

That was the passionate impetus of Mike and Beth Garatoni, the husband-and-wife team who founded Growing Kids Learning Center in 1995. With young children in their own family, they were drawn to conversations with other new parents. Invariably the discussions would turn to child care facilities, and the Garatonis were becoming disillusioned about the disconnect between what was needed and what was available.

Writer

In sharing their story on the Growing Kids website, the Garatonis explain the earliest phases of fulfilling such a mission. “We wanted to offer a service that parents would be excited about - that their child was learning and growing to his or her fullest potential, was safe and clean, was open the hours that parents needed care, and most importantly, gave the parents peace of mind.”

All of the Growing Kids Learning Centers are designed for children as young as six weeks of age, upward to youngsters at age 12. “We are a child care facility that provides educational content in a curriculum-based setting, with lesson plans structured for each stage of a child’s development,” Mike Garatoni says.

Although there is a solid emphasis on learning, there is always time for play, Garatoni notes. Each classroom features supplies, equipment and furniture that are functional, yet appealing for young hands

and eyes to take in. The more well-known and loved programs include Main Street, which features the schematics of a small community, where the proportions are suited for little ones while the lessons are on a far grander scale. The children work on motor skills, interactive play, problemsolving skills and make-believe activities.

Minds in Motion is another popular program that utilizes methods of kinesthetic learning, in which children participate in exercises related to balance, hand and eye coordination, and visual movement.

With the advent of 2023, there are changes coming to the classrooms that will benefit both staff and scholars. There are several phases of remodeling taking place, and teachers are being equipped with tablets to provide a more streamlined and effective way to manage the curriculum in this rapidly evolving digital age.

The teaching staff, as well as Garatoni

himself, have all noticed the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic and its impact on children. “Social distancing has really taken a toll on the younger kids,” he says.

“They are easily stressed. If a child is 3 years old and he’s spent two of those years having to wear a mask, then that’s what he remembers.”

Additionally, Garatoni notes, while strides in technology are extremely crucial to children in the learning process, there are other essential skills that have sometimes fallen by the wayside. Children are forgetting what it means to play and explore outdoors, he says.

“We are taking actions to incorporate natural elements in our playtime, with more reality-based experiences and less screen time,” he says. “We’re featuring sensory activities like playing with nuts and bolts, or making music with pots and pans. We’re encouraging kids to get dirty by offering mud kitchens. We study things like bugs and plants, spending time outdoors, allowing them to interact with the environment.”

After so many years, with the good fortune to be an invaluable stepping stone for countless children, Garatoni says the passion has not wavered, and they remain committed and focused to their original promise. “We truly enjoy what we do,” he says. “We’re rewarded by working with the kids and their families, and we value the trust that they place in us.”

To discover more about what Growing Kids Learning Center can provide for youngsters, including information on enrollment, scheduling and programs, visit growingkids.com.

56. Social slight 57. Cub raiser

58. Business apparel 59. Big sport in Japan? 60. Abates, as a tide 61. Plant

DOWN

1. Actor’s goal

2. Get along

3. Common cowboy nickname

4. Mirror

5. Opposing

6. List letters

7. Hangar, e.g.

8. Rappel

9. Ornamental carp

10. What a keeper may keep

11. Ride, and then some

17. Brazil, e.g.

19. Favorite project

22. Narcissist’s obsession 23. Grain disease 25. Record holder 26. Priceless?

Solutions

27. Doesn’t hold up well

28. Healing sign

29. Robe for Caesar

30. “Once ___ a time”

31. Arab’s father

35. Picks up

38. Park structure

40. Make tracks?

42. Blip on a polygraph 45. Saga

47. Lousy deposits? 48. Many a jazz combo 49. Bias

50. Pack animal

51. African grazer

52. Buccaneer’s drink 53. It’s served with lobster 54. High ball

CRANK IT UP

Straight Forward Entertainment Brings a Lively Show to Audiences Every Time

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

It’s just one simple word, but when spoken aloud it brings up a wellspring of emotions, sentiments and memories.

For some, it’s an experience that lasts about as long as a ditty and a dance. The melody lingers for a while after the final note is played, and then life ambles on.

Yet for others, it is positively transformative. When the song begins, when the beat takes hold, it winds its way through every chamber of the heart and envelops every part of the soul.

That word is…music. And the latter description suits Mark Johnson quite perfectly.

Johnson is a longtime singer-songwriter with a strong Midwestern heritage. Music has been in his blood and bones for almost as long as he can remember. His voice and instrumentation are the driving force behind his band Straight Forward, and the musicians are making sound waves with their renditions of classic rock steeped in nostalgia.

Now a resident of the Rochester area, Johnson and his bandmates still appreciate the freedom of traveling to perform at various events and venues throughout Indiana and Michigan. Through a vigorous and sterling word-of-mouth campaign, the band became well-renowned as an ideal option for wedding receptions. Through the years Straight Forward evolved into Johnson’s enterprise, now known as Straight Forward Entertainment. Johnson is more than happy to offer the band’s musical repertoire for wedding celebrations and

Wedding DJ/MC Mark Johnson

other milestone events.

Johnson remembers well being heavily influenced by Elvis in his youth, and still cites his music as an integral part of the group’s current playlist. Johnson’s young-adult years were spent lending his talents to a variety of garage bands before taking the direction of his career toward a professional venture in 1984. The current lineup of performers keeps things spirited and soulful with their music, as they present songs spanning from ‘70s rock to blues to classics. The band draws performance material from a lengthy musical canon of landmark rockers, from Journey to REO Speedwagon…and yes, that includes Elvis’s music as well.

As a songwriter, Johnson doesn’t allow himself to be dictated by boundaries, and describes how one of his recent compositions has carried him into country music. He’s hoping to make some noise in Nashville, in more ways than

one. “I do have an entrepreneurial side as well,” he says with a laugh.

Johnson estimates that the group plays

approximately 30 weddings per year, and he’s quick to note that there is always room to add more dates to their calendar.

Straight Forward Entertainment has the

wealth of resources needed to liven up venues from corporate parties to outdoor concerts, and more or less anything else in between - virtually any setting where

music can infuse and inspire the mood.

With an enduring love and passion for the performing arts, one that has been a part of him for the greater part of his life, Johnson and his fellow musicians understand the boundless power of music, and have taken that

thrill ride toward new dimensions and opportunities. They are eager to see what adventures await them after the chorus has faded out and audiences wait for the next melodic story.

“I’ve not only gotten this down to a science,” Johnson says. “I’ve gotten it

574-201-8172.

LAVENDER LOVE COOKING POWER IN A FLOWER

I Love lavender.

It’s beautiful, smells amazing and promotes feelings of peace and tranquility. I love the delicate stems and tiny blossoms that retain their fragrance even after picked and dried. My sweet husband has indulged in my obsession and has taken me to various lavender fields and gardens, and gifts me with bouquets of lavender and rose for special occasions. Even my wedding was decorated with Lavender. I even have a lavender tattoo with scripture on my arm. So when I say I love lavender,

I really love lavender.

You can imagine my delight, and surprise, when I discovered that lavender is also an herb and you can cook with it. Wait? A flower? Edible? No way! I had always puzzled over lavender-flavored lattes and pastries in the past. I mean, wouldn’t they taste like potpourri? I was given a recipe and tried it out and sure enough, it tasted like I was eating a bouquet and I was so disappointed.

But, as I said I LOVE lavender and I’m fairly stubborn. So, I went on a hunt and researched lavender’s properties

and began experimenting with some ingredients to make the recipe taste the way I wanted it to taste. After trials and many errors, I finally was able to make blueberry lavender tea bread that tastes like heaven (and not like potpourri). Everyone loved it! My grandmother even requested it for her birthday instead of cake it was that good. It has now become my signature dessert to make and share with others. After the success I was excited. What else could I make?

I purchased some edible flower books from the New Kitchen Store and delved into how to use lavender in my cooking.

Writer / Abby Renz, New Kitchen Store

Yes, I said cooking! I have made Lavender Herbed fingerling potatoes with rosemary, thyme, and rosehips that are absolutely incredible and chicken with garlic and lavender honey and so, so much more. I have learned to make my own homemade lavender simple syrup that can be used in lemonade and even added into cream for a homemade lavender latte.

Now, you don’t have to be absolutely obsessed with lavender, like me, to learn how to integrate it into your everyday recipes. Lavender and other edible flowers can greatly enhance your dishes to add some variety and flavor to the mundane meal and make them unforgettable.

My favorite spice mixture has to be Ras El Hanout and it’s perfect for herbed potatoes, chicken, or fish. It has rosehips, hibiscus, lavender, and saffron. The flavor is incredible and already packaged together, which makes quick means taste incredible. I am sure to grind and blend

my herbs and spices together with my mortar and pestle to ensure optimal flavor.

Did you know that lavender is also good for sleep and soothing? I enjoy drinking blueberry lavender tea not only because it tastes amazing, but it also helps calm my anxiety and the added bamboo and

hibiscus have helped my hair, skin, and nails become healthier. I never knew that my favorite flower could add so much to my cooking and health, and was so much more than just beautiful.

If you love cooking with flowers, or love flowers, or simply just enjoy learning new things, some of these recipes might just

be for you.

Unsure where to begin? Come into the New Kitchen Store and ask one of the employees and peruse or extensive spice selection. While you’re here enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea, we’re always happy to help you find the right item, or ingredient, for your kitchen.

GARFIELD, CLIFFORD, OZ, AND MORE — OH MY!

Indiana Produced a Host of Legendary Children’s Characters

Photography Provided

Lakes-area readers who grew up in the era of the mega-popularity of sardonic comic strip cat Garfield may be surprised to learn that the famous feline made his syndicated newspaper debut 45 years ago this year, in 1978.

It may (or may not) also come as a surprise to learn that Garfield’s creator, Jim Davis, hails from nearby Marion, Indiana, and what’s more, a surprising number of popular characters in comic strips and children’s books share Hoosier connections with him.

Jim Davis, born in Marion in 1945, grew up on a small farm in Fairmount, Indiana (which occasionally factors into the storylines of the comic strip), attending Ball State University to study art and business. In fact, while rarely mentioned within the

panels of the comic strip, Ball State’s home base of Muncie, Indiana, is actually where Garfield and his hapless owner, Jon, reside.

Davis’ study of both art and business was an appropriate one: from his present-day home in Albany, Indiana, he has stewarded Garfield from a popular newspaper comic strip focusing on his sarcastic and gluttonous feline protagonist, to the star of a veritable multimedia empire encompassing everything from books to plush toys, coffee mugs to TV specials. Readers who remember the 1980s will recall Garfield products as almost ubiquitous during that decade, and all of it under the umbrella of Davis’ Paws, Inc. corporation.

But Garfield is hardly unique in his status as an internationally recognizable cartoon phenom from Indiana.

Writer / Jeff Kenney

Among a handful of much earlier creations is that of Little Orphan Annie, who made her debut in an 1885 poem penned by Hoosier Poet (and National Poet Laureate) James Whitcomb Riley (who spent time at, and wrote a poem about Lakes area locale Lake Maxinkuckee not many years later).

“Little Orphans Annie” was inspired by an orphan named Mary Alice Smith who lived in the Riley home as a child. The poem focuses on “Orphant Annie’s” warning to potentially misbehaving children that, “the goblins will get ya if ya don’t watch out!”

Of course the character of Little Orphan Annie, who made her post-poem debut in a 1924 comic strip by Harold Gray, expanded significantly on Riley’s simpler original creation to include characters like “Daddy” Warbucks, Sandy the dog, and a host of pirates and brigands posing ongoing threats to the plucky redhead.

In the decades following her debut, Annie

“Hoosier Poet” James Whitcomb Riley, whose “Little Orphant Annie” poem introduced the popular character

became a massive multimedia success in - among other media - radio, toys, and films, and saw a revival as another 1980s children’s fixture due primarily to the success of a late 1970s Broadway production and 1982 Hollywood film.

Yet another acclaimed children’s creation originating from Indiana was that of Indianapolis writer Johnny Gruelle, who patented a red-yarn-haired doll he named Raggedy Ann in 1915. Gruelle created a series of stories originally designed to accompany the doll, first published in 1918

in book form as, “Raggedy Ann Stories,” adding characters in later books such as Raggedy Ann’s brother, Raggedy Andy, and others.

Among the Gruelle family’s friends during Johnny’s youth was none other than the aforementioned James Whitcomb Riley, whose famous 1888 poem, “The Raggedy Man,” inspired Gruelle’s name for his doll characters (the human girl in whose home the fictional Raggedys lived was named Marcella, for Johnny and his wife Myrtle’s daughter Marcella, who died of an infected vaccination at age 13).

The highly successful, Indianapolis-based publishing company, Bobbs-Merrill (which also published Riley’s work) would print millions of copies of the Raggedy Ann books, and the character went on to become a staple item not only as a doll and in other toy formats, but in animated and theatrical productions, comic books, and an array of other media as well.

Another early 20th-century children’s creation at the center of a huge media and marketing empire had more distant Indiana roots. Writer L. Frank Baum hailed from New York State but went on to reside mainly in Chicago and Los Angeles. Much speculation has persisted about his connections to the Bass Lake/Starke County areas, with particular attention to the claim that he named the famous dog owned by Dorothy in his book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” (which was published in 1900 and became a massive hit, spawning 13 sequels from his own pen),

“Toto” after seeing a reference to the Starke County town of the same name.

Perhaps almost as interesting is the wellattested history of the Bass Lake site purchased by Baum’s third son, Harry Neal Baum. Built around 1907 as the Center View Hotel on Bass Lake, Harry Baum and his wife Brenda, following the former’s retirement, purchased and renamed the site The Wizard of Oz Lodge (later re-dubbing it Oz Castle, or Ozcot, after his parents’ home in Hollywood) and opening it to the public in 1960.

The house was decorated with memorabilia reflecting the massive worldwide success of the Oz franchise (best known, of course, from the 1939 movie starring Judy Garland). Most notably, the site was home to the earliest Oz conventions of the International Wizard of Oz Club, part of a burgeoning early 1960s movement of science fiction and fantasy fandom which would explode in later years and become

part of a well-known subculture most associated with franchises like Star Wars and Star Trek.

The business stayed open for only one more season after Harry Baum’s 1967 death, though it played an important role in the long and storied history of “The Wizard of Oz” and its fan following (a detailed account, including several photos, of the early Oz-related gatherings at the Bass Lake site, including a mysterious tornado narrowly missing the house, can be found online at allthingsoz.org/blog/index. php/2021/06/28/the-other-ozcot-andthe-first-oz-conventions).

Many readers will recall another Lakes-area endeavor which capitalized on the regional connection to Baum and Oz: the longtime Wizard of Oz Festival at nearby Chesterton, Indiana, which began in the early 1980s as a one-day festival and grew to an event of international proportions, the largest of its kind in the country, and which hosted

actors from the 1939 film, among other features. The event went dormant for a handful of years, though it has been revived more recently.

Another iconic children’s character of Indiana origins was born not far down the road from the home of Garfield the cat.  Norman Bridwell, who passed away in 2014, grew up in Kokomo, Indiana, and

attended the John Herron School of Art at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, as well as Cooper Union in New York City.

Cartoonist Bridwell published “Clifford, the Big Red Dog,” about the misadventures of young Emily Elizabeth and her enormous dog in 1963 and it became a hit, leading to some 80 books (counting nonClifford titles, Bridwell published over 150, with hundreds of millions of copies sold), television specials and series, an array of toys, and most recently, a live-action, bigscreen movie adaptation.

Clifford can be seen annually as a huge balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, and - another indication of his worldwide success - he serves as the official mascot of the Scholastic Corporation, which has published his books from the beginning.

In 2015, Bridwell’s childhood home in Kokomo became a historic site, and yes, there is an Emily Elizabeth - one of the Bridwells’ two children, the other being Timothy Howard - and she’s a dog expert and mother.

Anything approaching a complete listing of children’s authors from Indiana (let alone children’s books focusing on sites or topics relating to the Hoosier State) would be impossible, but a few “honorable mentions” may merit reference here.

Paul Hutchens based his 36 Sugar Creek Gang children’s novels, which spawned TV and movie adaptations, on his childhood home near Thorntown, Indiana, where nearby Sugar Creek gave the series its name.

Dozens of books, published between 1940 and 1970, made up the popular series. Disney illustrator Bill Peet was born in Grandview, Indiana in 1915 and, like Bridwell, graduated from the John Herron Art Institute in Indianapolis. He relocated to Los Angeles and drew characters appearing in Disney classics like “Dumbo” and “Cinderella,” and writing screenplays

including, “101 Dalmatians” and “The Sword in the Stone.” Peet also wrote and illustrated a number of children’s books, including “Kermit the Hermit” and “The Caboose Who Got Loose,” earning Caldecott Honor recognition for his work.

And speaking of animation: closer to home and much more contemporary, Kacie Hermanson, former Culver resident

and a 2012 Culver Girls Academy graduate, has worked in art and animation for productions on the Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and Netflix, among others. Perhaps she, or any one of the many aspiring creators in the Hoosier State today, will usher in the next iconic children’s character to attain worldwide recognition.

Quality Care, Closer To Home

The sta of Pulaski Memorial Hospital Medical and Surgical Group works diligently to provide groundbreaking services and compassionate care throughout our local communities. Operating clinics in ve convenient locations, our team is dedicated to providing “Quality Care, Closer To Home.”

We are excited to announce that we have opened our sixth Medical Clinic in Culver, Indiana.

Sta ed by Dr. Tim Day, a Culver native, and Alexa Good, FNP-C, our caring, and dedicated team is excited to meet the community’s healthcare needs.

The Clinic is open Monday through Friday, and both providers are accepting new patients.

Tim Day, MD

Alexa Good, FNP-C

CLEARING THE AIR

that was done out of state in Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Illinois. JR was very well-established in those areas.”

David Sommers, owner of JR’s Mold

Remediation in Goshen, says the business he took over already had a lot of satisfied customers, which helped him tremendously.

“I bought the business from JR Otto in May of 2020,” Sommers says. “I bought JR’s Mold Remediation after it was well-established. There was a lot of work for the company

Sommers has been extremely satisfied with JR’s Mold Remediation, which he says is a leading air-filter supplier.

“My sisters used to work for JR, and when JR wanted to sell the business, I decided I would like to buy it,” Sommers says. “It was a good fit because I like to help people and I

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also like traveling.”

Sommers has already put some miles on his car.

“When I first bought the business, I traveled to Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri and Michigan,” Sommers says. “Now since I married, I would like to do more local work, but I will still travel.” Sommers says he enjoys his mold work at JR’s Mold Remediation.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

JR’S MOLD REMEDIATION OWNER TALKS RESIDENTIAL AND

“Since I moved to Indiana, I didn’t do a lot of cleaning, but I was busy testing a lot of houses for mold,” Sommers says.

“A lot of my mold testing was done out of state. I also have another job, but I would like to be busy enough that I can go out on my own and put my focus on my business. I currently work at BatteryTech in Millersburg, Indiana.”

Sommers notes that it is vitally important to get a house checked for mold before the problem gets out of hand.

“If you don’t take care of mold, it can deteriorate your building and can cause a lot of health issues,” Sommers says. “The sooner you take care of the problem, the better. It can really damage a person’s health if they don’t find it in their house, office or building.”

JR’s Mold Remediation uses high-quality products to treat mold problems.

JR’S MOLD REMEDIATION

evansagencyllc.com

Hours

Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Saturday By Appointment

Evenings By Appointment

“I use a mold and mildew remover to fog and Proxy Clean a building,” Sommers says. “Proxy Clean is a mold-resistant cleaner, and you can also use it to do regular house cleaning.”

Sommers adds that his team of experts looks for mold growth, removes harmful substances and tests for airborne mold spores. They also do interior painting.

“We can take care of all of these things and have your place looking better,” Sommers says. “We can also take care of the air people are breathing in at their house or business.”

JR’s Mold Remediation also uses air purifiers.

“I sell the Sanalife brand,” Sommers says. “It really does a good job if you know how to use it right. It’s a very high-quality product. I can’t say enough good things about it.” Sommers says there are ways for a building owner to look for mold and find out if there

is a problem.

“People should find out if there is a musty smell or if they see mold growing,” Sommers says. “Sometimes you can’t see or smell it, but your immune system can’t handle it, so you get sick a lot easier than normally. You might have a runny nose or cough a lot. If you have a lot of moisture, your chances of mold are very likely with high humidity, etcetera.”

Sommers has a process he follows when remediating residential mold.

“To remediate a building, I fog it,” Sommers says. “After that, I have to wait four hours and then I start the air scrubbers.”

Sommers makes sure the building also looks good.

“I clean all of the walls, floors and ceilings,” Sommers says. “If I clean a basement, I also spray Proxy Clean on the floor joists.”

Sommers says he can take on any mold

problem that home and business owners have, and says they shouldn’t hesitate to contact him.

“I’m not afraid to take on any mold job,” he

says. “Call me and I’m on my way.”

For more information on JR’s Mold Remediation, call 515-474-4940 or visit jrsmoldremediation.com.

CRYSTAL CLEAR SUCCESS STICKS & STONES CURIOSITY SHOP OPENS IN KNOX

says, provides a way to direct people to her business.

For Dawn Powell, the opening of her store, Sticks & Stones, is multifaceted. A childhood fascination with rocks and crystals, her career as a nurse, and the desire to own a business of her own have merged in the former Studio Printers building on South Heaton Street in Knox.

The old building is painted purple - one of Powell’s aesthetic choices. The color, she

“It’s the only purple building in town,” she says. “This is a high-vibrancy color. It lightens the mood and the spirit.” It took some time to renovate the building. Powell says the interior had to be gutted and rebuilt after years of being closed and unused. It took three years to complete the renovation, and the shop opened on November 11.

The location for the store is close to home, she says. Powell moved to Knox about 30 years ago. As a Hoosier native, she likes living in the area and being close to the lake. Powell’s inventory includes rocks, crystals and wooden pieces made by her boyfriend. These items specifically inspired the name of the store - wood-crafted pieces being the sticks, and crystals being the stones.

“I carry the basic crystals that people look for, but I specialize in crystal carvings and unique pieces,” Powell explains. “People like

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owner Dawn Powell

pieces that speak to their character and to their fun side. Some pieces are elegant and deeply spiritual, and others are just for fun. I look for new products all the time. I love finding unique items.”

Her inventory goes well beyond these types of pieces, and beyond the confines of the county, the state and even the U.S.

The store carries carved wood pieces from Indonesia, thuya wood pieces from a conifer tree in Africa, handblown glass from Germany, handcrafted lamps from Turkey, and rocks from all over the world including the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, Africa, the Dominican Republic, Uruguay and more. That childhood passion Powell had as a 7-year-old with a rock collection resurfaced about seven years ago. She started selling crystals and other items related to spirituality at local festivals and craft shows. Her business at that point was called Moonlight Dreams. During the pandemic she opened an online store under the same

SKILLED NURSING | SHORT-TERM THERAPY

name. A brick-and-mortar store, however, was always the goal, she says.

There was also a void in the marketplace for stones and crystals. When she began her own spiritual journey, Powell says she could not find a local source for the crystals and stones she found beneficial on her journey.

“There was nothing here,” she says. “I decided to open in Knox because it’s where I live, and we need more businesses here.”

She also recognized that many people, like her, find a spiritual and healing connection to stones and crystals. This fit in with her own path as a nurse who often works with people struggling with addiction and other issues. Powell notes that many people look at stones and crystals as healing items.

The customers who visit Sticks & Stones search for many different items and stop in for many different reasons. Some look at collecting crystals and stones as a hobby.

Others are driven toward the idea that these natural elements add positivity and healing to their lives. Still others simply enjoy shopping for the fun and unique products in Powell’s shop.

Sticks & Stones is not just a rock shop.

Powell offers her customers a variety to choose from. It is diverse enough to appeal to various personalities and interests, or simply to have fun.

“I think I am just a big kid at heart,” Powell says. “We all have that inner child.”

Sticks & Stones is located at 1202 South Heaton Street in Knox. For more information, follow them on Facebook @ dawnsmoonlightdreams, or text Powell at 574-806-0798. 5340

What’s Happening IN MARCH AT THE LAKES

KOONTZ LAKE/WALKERTON

ALL Times listed are Central Time.

EVERY MONDAY – Bingo – Doors open at 5p, Early Bird starts at 6p, and regular games start at 6:30p at the Koontz Lake Association Community building. The KLA Clubhouse is COVID Friendly, face masks & social distancing is your choice.

KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse are the second Tuesday of the month. Meeting are open to the public and community support is needed! Come to a board meeting to see if you might be interested in helping!

MARCH 7TH - 6p - Koontz Lake Conservancy District Annual Board Meeting. At this meeting, the board will be filling the position of Director - Area 1, electing officers, and holding an open forum for all interested parties to ask questions and offer feedback. The meeting will be held at the Sewer Districtbuilding located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Inter-

ested parties may join remotely by calling (240) 591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted.

Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! The rental fee is $50.00. If interested, please contact Cathy at 219-2294424. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen. Like us on Facebook! – Koontz Lake Association

KNOX/BASS LAKE

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

MARCH 4TH - 9am - The Bass Lake Property Owners Meeting at the BLPOA Building

BREMEN/LAKE OF THE WOODS

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

MARCH 18TH – 9a – BCC Meeting at the BBC Building. LOWPOA Will hold its first meeting of the season. Please check their Facebook for a date and time.

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

MARCH 18TH – 7:30a – 11a – Monthly Breakfast at the Culver VFW Post 6919 located at 108 E Washington Street in Culver.

MARCH 25TH – 8a – 4p – NIGCA Gun Show at The Zone located at 2923 VanVactor Dr.in Plymouth. Adm.$5 (12 &under free, w/adult) Call Darlene, 574-936-4431

IF YOU’D LIKE TO HAVE YOUR EVENTS FEATURED IN THE WHAT’S HAPPENING SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL MANDI@TOWNEPOST.COM.

LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

LAKE MAXINKUCKEE/CULVER/ MARSHALL COUNTY

“I was born and raised in Winamac, spending my summers with family on Lake Maxinkuckee, Bass Lake, Lake Manitou and Lake Shafer, so I am very familiar with the Local real estate area.”