The Lakes Magazine East November 2023

FREE MONTHLY PRINT MAGAZINE WITH CORRESPONDING MOBILE APP AND SOCIAL MEDIA FEATURING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES, AND EVENTS IN AND AROUND ELKHART, LAGRANGE, NOBLE, KOSCIUSKO & STEUBEN COUNTY INDIANA + CASS, BRANCH & ST. JOSEPH COUNTY MICHIGAN

NOVEMBER 2023

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NORTH AMERICAN SAFE HELPS TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE LIMITLESS LEARNING

The Team at Forever Learning Institute Believes the Pursuit of Knowledge Should Never Stop GROUNDS FOR A VISIT

The Mishawaka Res Presents a Unique Opportunity for Local Immersion in Nature

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A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

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The Team at Forever Learning Institute Believes the Pursuit of Knowledge Should Never Stop

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Town Square Tavern & Eatery Owner Mike Faylor Puts an Emphasis on Quality

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FINDING HIS VOICE

Lifelong Indiana Resident Malachi Jaggers Talks Music Success and Hoosier Roots

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The Mishawaka Res Presents a Unique Opportunity for Local Immersion in Nature

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LIMITLESS LEARNING THE TEAM AT FOREVER LEARNING INSTITUTE BELIEVES THE PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE SHOULD NEVER STOP

Eve Finnessy

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Writer & Photographer / Lois Tomaszewski

The quest for knowledge is one of those lifelong endeavors that may contribute to a better quality of life. At Forever Learning Institute in South Bend, seniors continue to learn in all sorts of areas, from dancing and pickleball to foreign languages and literature studies.

“Forever Learning really is a service organization with a mission of lifelong learning,” says Executive Director Eve Finnessy.

In 2024 the Forever Learning team will mark five decades of service in the Michiana area, with a program that offers intellectual challenges, spiritual reflection and social interaction. The most recent fall semester offered 98 courses and touched on practical topics like learning about the internet, understanding

Many of the instructors have advanced degrees or are in the education field.

Some have retired from the area’s universities such as Notre Dame.

According to Finnessy, Forever Learning encourages these instructors to teach whatever they want. Some instructors

teach in their field and others teach subjects for which they have a passion.

She says some of the classes offered would be considered niche subjects like local history, like the one titled What Happened to Studebaker, or the class on Mishawaka history. Finnessy says others would be considered highbrow subjects, such as quantum mechanics or creative thinking. Other classes are offered due to popularity like pickleball, which is offered in four classes this fall.

Other classes provide an out-of-theclassroom experience, like a field trip or trip to a play. Some instructors add a field trip during the semester.

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“We have a lot of dedicated volunteer instructors,” Finnessy says. “They love what they do and need an environment to continue it.”

Instructor Ann Carey Schmiedeler agrees.

“Seniors are my favorite students,” she wrote for the organization’s recent impact report. “It’s very rewarding to see their excitement over learning new skills and producing fine work. I look forward to every class.”

The once-per-week classes are offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays only.

Classes are offered year-round.

The full in-person program is offered in the spring and fall in 10-week sessions.

In winter, Forever Learning schedules online classes for a six-week run. The fall semester begins the week after Labor Day. The spring semester traditionally begins the first full week in March. In 2022-2023, 1,566 students enrolled in 184 classes,

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according to the organization’s impact report.

The attending students should be aged 55 or older. Finnessy says 68% of students are in their 70s and 80s, with another 17% older than 60.

Brother James J. Cane wrote the following in a comment presented in the organization’s impact report: “Forever Learning provides me the joy of meeting new friends, the discovery of new ideas, and the stimulation of my imagination, outlook and knowledge base. Forever’s classes prepare me to regift that grace to others.”

South Bend is an ideal location for the work that Forever Learning does, Finnessy says. People who attended college here will often retire here. There is an active arts scene, and it’s considered affordable.

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2023 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 9

Tuition is $55 per class. Scholarships are offered to those who need one. There is no proof of income or need required.

“Money should never be a reason for not taking a class at Forever Learning,” Finnessy says. “We never turn anyone down. We are committed to offering a platform for senior adults, to continue fulfilling and interesting lives in every way.”

offered at the Forever Learning Institute, visit foreverlearninginstitute. org. Finnessy can be contacted at 574-282-1901, or via email at eve@

foreverlearninginstitute.org. It is housed at St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church, at 54191 Ironwood Road in South Bend.

Forever Learning was founded by Father Louis Putz, a retired professor from Notre Dame. Putz believed that seniors needed challenging educational classes.

He recruited fellow retired educators and professors to lend their passion for learning.

To commemorate that founding in 1974, a gala and dinner celebration is being planned for August.

To find out more about the courses

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ord is getting out about a newly opened restaurant in Argos, and the word is that Owner Mike Faylor knows what he is doing at Town Square Tavern & Eatery.

Faylor is not new to the culinary game, and that experience means his food does not disappoint. He owned a pizza restaurant in Culver and operated Papa Mike’s food truck.

He opened his new restaurant earlier this year, and it is becoming known for a

variety of dishes, especially the smoked meats carefully prepared, low and slow.

Cuts like prime rib, ribs and pork take time to achieve the tender, falling-off-the bone quality that fans of smoked meats appreciate.

Faylor smokes his prime rib for seven hours. He claims it is the best prime rib in the area, and says his customers have equated his prime rib with upscale dining.

It takes so long to prepare that it is only served on Friday and Saturday.

“When people think of barbecue, they think of turning on a gas grill and cooking it fast,” Faylor says.

Faylor perfected his meat-smoking skills while cooking at home. “I just enjoyed doing it at home,” he says. “I fooled around and fooled around with it for the last 20 years. Having a passion for something like that doesn’t always make sense, but it shows in the results.”

While smoking meat on a grill is Faylor’s specialty, his eatery has more to offer

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2023 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 13

diners. In addition to the prime rib on Friday and Saturday, he also features an all-you-can-eat walleye dinner on Friday as well as several daily specials.

His menu features favorite starters like pickle chips, breaded mozzarella sticks and pulled-pork nachos. There are smoked chicken wings, Papa Mike’s brisket Philly sandwich, and hand-pulled pork. Sandwich options include a variety of burgers and paninis, and there are also salad options, including spinach salad and smoked chicken salad.

To complete the dinner experience, there are four desserts available. The standout, according to Faylor, is his wife Lori’s bread pudding. She uses her grandmother’s secret recipe to make a craveable, custard-like bread pudding that customers want to take home in a 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Faylor says this bread pudding has won over many customers who had not previously been fans of this traditional dessert.

“Lori is the heartbeat of this place,” Faylor says. They have been married for 34 years.

Lori also makes the whiskey barbecue sauce featured in several menu selections.

It is one of the only sauces served. The smoked meats come without sauce, as Faylor prefers using a dry rub to flavor the meat.

Faylor tries to keep the price of his daily specials affordable, at about $11. “While dealing with high-end meats, things can get pricey, but it’s important to keep things

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affordable for the community,” he says.

“This is affordable. People can come in here and leave satisfied without spending a lot of money. Creating a better community has to be that way - unintentional. People come out to have an amazing meal, but if the byproduct of it is helping to keep small towns like Argos running, well, why not?”

He also has a growing carry-out business.

An event room is available for private parties and seats about 100 people.

Catering is also available, either through the restaurant or from Faylor’s food truck.

For Thanksgiving, he is offering smoked turkey as a catering option for his customers. His priority, however, is the restaurant.

“This is our heart and soul,” he says. “If the lights are on and we are open, I’m going to be here.”

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2023 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 15

There’s also a full bar and craft beer available.

Faylor is committed to sourcing his produce and ingredients locally as much as possible. He partnered with his landlord to plant a small orchard just four blocks from the restaurant, with a large vegetable garden coming in the spring. It’s part of a slow move to a farm-to-table approach that partners quite well with the meats he stakes his reputation on.

His hope is that this will make the restaurant a destination.

“When I come in and see families enjoying their meal or customers coming back again, that means a lot to me,” he says.

Town Square Tavern & Eatery is located at 110 South Michigan Avenue in Argos. For more information, call 574-948-1439.

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FINDING HIS VOICE LIFELONG INDIANA RESIDENT MALACHI JAGGERS TALKS MUSIC SUCCESS AND HOOSIER ROOTS Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photography Provided

Imagine for a moment all of the exquisite things that make life as a Hoosier so wondrous. The magnificence and magic of the seasons. The bright and brilliant sunscapes and moon glow. The tranquility and peace of the open farmland and the friendly candor of the people.

Now imagine that all of this could be the inspiration for a soundtrack of life. This well describes the musical stylings of Malachi Jaggers, a singer-songwriter from rural central Indiana who has accomplished it all - the mission, the message and the music.

Jaggers is a lifelong resident of Indiana, and a self-taught musician, lyricist and composer. His music has been described as a blend of 1970s rock and country, and has often drawn comparisons to the sounds of James Taylor, the Eagles, Tom Petty, and fellow Midwestern rocker John Mellencamp. Jaggers released his first EP titled “Fearless” in July of 2021, which was followed by the singles “An American Hero” and “What Are You Waiting For?” The latter two tunes received Grammy Award nominations.

Most recently Jaggers has dropped a new song, which was unveiled on October 27, called “Too Soon.” For this latest release, Jaggers shares the co-writing credits with a close friend, Scott Greeson.

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Jaggers scarcely remembers a time when music wasn’t an integral force of power and momentum in his life. “Growing up in the heartland countryside of Indiana, and being influenced by rock and country music, country-meets-‘70s-rock happened organically,” he says. “Music has always been like breathing to me, a natural extension of who I am.”

Before Jaggers even started school, he was becoming well-versed in how to play chords on his father’s collection of guitars, often practicing with such fervor that his small fingers would be blistered.

In fairly short order, he could simply hear a song and play along effortlessly, without the aid of any sort of sheet music.

As Jaggers grew older, he finessed his musical gifts in between the rigors and chores of farm life. “On summer days I’d pull a hay wagon into the driveway and use it as my stage,” he recalls. “Friends, whom I was in a band with, would come over to jam. Sometimes we’d set up and play in the garage too. We were surrounded by corn and bean fields, so no one minded how loud we were. My younger brothers and our howling beagle dogs were usually our audience, which was great.”

Jaggers sometimes borrowed vintage albums from his father to show off to his friends, explaining to them how he longed to emulate their vibe. Admittedly, Jaggers says, his friends were sometimes a little

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baffled. “I was an ’80s kid living in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” he jokes.

“During high school I started playing other instruments by ear, and picked up drums, bass guitar, harmonica and piano,” Jaggers says. “No matter the subject, if I had a project in school, I tried to incorporate music in some way.”

In one of his high school classes, Jaggers was given permission by his English teacher to transform a reading of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” into a musical, which he then had to perform in front of the class. He remembers well spending time at the Little Theatre at Delphi High School, perfecting his composition. Jaggers remains a resident of Delphi today with his wife, Leah.

Jaggers also incorporated a historic element into one of his early works, writing a song about the Whiskey Rebellion as an assignment for a history class. “I played it at a family get-together, and my nephew ran around the house singing, ‘Whiskey, whiskey,’” he says. “I guess it was effective.”

Recognizing that his son was a musical prodigy, Jaggers’ father transformed a modest 8-foot-by-10-foot shed into what Jaggers fondly calls his early jam space and recording studio. “He’d invite friends over and we’d all play music together,” Jaggers says. “I learned a lot from his friends. Those years were so valuable and

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taught me a great deal about how to work with a band.”

Reba McEntire, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

While Jaggers’s early sound was steeped in rock roots, it was Leah who convinced him to expand his interests toward country music.

Any hopes of traveling on the road to promote the new EP were quashed, however, because at the conclusion of recording “Fearless” in early 2020, the pandemic set in, and the East Nashville region was ravaged by a tornado. Jaggers began a campaign to promote his music via social media, sharing music from home with a variety of instruments he happened to have on hand. “It was nothing fancy, just something to encourage people going through a hard time,” Jaggers says. “It was also a vehicle to stay creative and keep the music going.”

It seemed serendipitous that Jaggers and a group of fellow musicians were able to gather in Nashville to begin laying down tracks. Jaggers and his accompanying band were set to begin recording “Fearless” at Blackbird Studios, which is owned by renowned country artist Martina McBride and her husband, John.

Jaggers was fortunate to play with a wealth of distinguished artists, some of whom had collaborated with Joe Walsh, Dolly Parton,

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Musicians of Malachi Jaggers’s “Fearless” EP Chad Cromwell – Drums Tom Bukovac – Electric & Acoustic Guitar Jimmy Wallace – Piano & Hammond B3 Dan Dugmore – Steel Guitar & Electric Guitar Steve Mackey – Bass Guitar Windy Wagner – Background Vocals Matt Coles – Background Vocals

Some of his newer material was later recorded back in Nashville, this time at Compass studio, which was once the recording studio of Waylon Jennings, and is now considered a legendary historic landmark on Music Row. Jaggers credits Matt Coles, a Grammynominated engineer and producer, for helping to fine-tune the recordings.

Coles has since become a good friend of Jaggers.

With only a few weeks remaining in 2023, Jaggers will end the year with a jam-packed schedule, so to speak.

He has been traveling and performing at venues around the state and is preparing for a string of shows in Florida this winter. One of his newer songs, “Look At It Go,” will soon air in the background of a scene on a Canadian television show called “Ruby and the Well.”

“My future goals are to release more music for my fans to enjoy, and to continue to tour regionally and nationally,” Jaggers says. “As a songwriter, it’s an honor to have this opportunity.”

Jaggers has a newsletter called the Jaggers Train, through which fans can stay apprised of new releases, stories, song previews, tour appearances and other information. He maintains several social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and Twitter/X. Check out his songs on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.

Visit malachijaggers.com for tour dates, reviews and booking contact information.

Musicians of Malachi Jaggers’s “An American Hero”, “What Are You Waiting For?” & “Too Soon” Sierra Hull – Mandolin Chad Cromwell – Drums Russ Pahl – Steel Guitar Mike Brignardello – Bass Guitar Jimmy Wallace – Piano & Hammond B3 B. James Lowry – Acoustic Guitar Matt Coles – Background Vocals

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North American Safe “THE SAFEST PLACE IN TOWN” CALL TODAY OR COME INTO OUR SHOWROOM. WE HAVE SAFES IN STOCK! WE OFFER SAFE DELIVERY & SAFE MOVING!

901 NELSONS PARKWAY, WAKARUSA, IN 46573 (574) 370-0965 | WWW.BESTBUILTSAFES.COM

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LOCK IT IN

NORTH AMERICAN SAFE HELPS TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE Writer & Photographer / Ali Schneider

In the heart of downtown Wakarusa, you will find a business that aims to keep you safe.

Since 2014, North American Safe has been serving the community by helping to protect their valuable items. It is owned and operated by Tim Reece. He and lead salesman Jordan Fromer have singlehandedly turned this small business into a thriving operation.

Pictured is owner and founder of North American Safe, Tim Reece, in his office with one of his favorite Liberty Safes.

Reece began by owning the North American Pump Company, which is also based out of Wakarusa. Unfortunately for Reece, his home was robbed years ago. After this incident, he knew he needed a way to protect his valuables, himself and his family. That is when the idea came to his mind to look into safes.

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In 2014 Reece became a certified Liberty Safe dealer. Liberty Safe is the numberone safe dealer in the USA. All of their safes are American made, which is a big deal for Reece, who prides himself on supporting products made here in our country. Liberty Safe specializes in heavyduty home and gun safes. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any customer’s needs.

When Reece decided to become a dealer, he thought it would just be a communitybased business. As locals caught wind of him being a dealer, his reputation and customer base grew as well. In 2019 Reece decided to become more than a Liberty Safe dealer. That is when the doors to his warehouse opened and he began stocking more and more safes. Once they did this, Reece says the business simply exploded.

Although North American Safe serves the local community, they have expanded to include shipping all over the country.

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Some of the most popular items that people choose to store in safes include guns, jewelry, gold bars, collectibles, photos and legal documents. Everyone has something that is valuable to them.

There are a variety of places where you can purchase a safe, but what sets North American Safe apart from the rest is their commitment to quality, reliability and service. In fact, North American safe offers regional delivery and installation.

This is a huge perk to purchasing from their company as it offers peace of mind to the customer.

Whether you do not know where to put a safe, or how you will get it into your home due to size, the team at North American Safe will take care of the hard work for you. They will spend the time getting it safely into your home, setting up the locks and educating you on operation. They primarily deliver to the Michiana area, but have expanded their services to the Fort

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Wayne and Rochester areas as well.

If you think you want a safe but do not know much about them, no problem.

That is where North American Safe comes into the picture. Their stocked showroom is full of different styles and sizes. Although Reece started as a Liberty Safe dealer, he expanded into selling Rhino products in 2020.

You can compare the safes when you come into the showroom, where you can see and touch the products. Reece and Fromer are more than happy to show you around, tell you about the products and offer recommendations on what would best fit your needs. As Reece puts it, they are all about “good people, good products and good stuff.”

Next time you are thinking about protection for your valuable items, consider choosing North American

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Safe, located at 901 Nelsons Parkway in Wakarusa. You can stop by any business day of the week, but be sure to call before you do. They can be reached by calling

Reece at 574-370-0965, or Fromer at 574-370-8664.

They can be found on Facebook @

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FOR THE BIRDS MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TURKEY - OR TURKEY SUBSTITUTE PREPARATIONS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Story & Photography Provided

Let’s talk turkey! It’s that wonderful time of the year again when we gather and feast on traditional foods. But did you know that not everyone devours this bird on Thanksgiving?

How is it that turkeys became the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving holiday?

Glad you asked! The turkey was not invited to the party until the 1800s. There was no actual indication that the pilgrims consumed turkey in their celebration.

Fowl was mentioned, but historians tend to think they had duck or geese.

So how did the turkey get to the Thanksgiving table? No, this is not a joke, but if you have a joke regarding that let us know. Long ago there was a tradition of serving large wildfowl in medieval Europe, especially peacock, which was

skinned, cooked and re-sewn into its feathers for presentation. I don’t know about you, but having a bird with feathers on the table would definitely keep my food consumption in check for the day.

While turkey wasn’t likely present in 1621, annual harvest dinners continued as turkey gained popularity as a source of protein, and turkeys were much larger than chickens, ducks and geese, making them economical to serve to a crowd.

There are many delectable ways to serve this bird. Here are a few options.

Spatchcocking - There is a lot of detail to this, and I’d look it up for the fun of it. It involves flattening the bird, and it sounds like you can release a lot of aggression with this method. It might be a good idea if the relatives are coming to your home for dinner.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

Brining - This involves soaking a turkey in a very salty solution for a length of time - long enough for the salt to infiltrate the turkey and actually alter the molecular structure of the meat. It won’t turn it into a salty mess, just a juicy, delicious turkey.

Smoking - This is a specialty and takes a while.

Grilling - You’ll be using indirect heat on the grill (gas or charcoal). The indirect heat will also help to prevent the turkey from drying out. You’ll also be basting the turkey every 30 minutes, which will keep the bird moist. This is also a great way to keep yourself removed from all the commotion going on inside the house!

The traditional way is to bake in the oven.

I won’t get into details with this one.

Now, what about the plant-based folks

out there? There are people who don’t even wish to eat turkey once a year. Well, here is it folks - tofu turkey. I’m so excited about this one, I’m sharing a recipe: 1 lb. firm tofu 1.5 cups boiling water Add your favorite spices. I would start with 1/2 teaspoon of each. Maybe try the spices that you use for making your favorite stuffing or dressing. If you feel that the spices aren’t clinging to your tofu, you can add a tablespoon or two of olive oil if you use oil. I know some prefer to stay away from oils.

Whisk your spice ingredients together with your water. Slice the tofu into desired shapes (perhaps use a turkey cookie cutter). Lay each slice in a pan and cover with marinade. Refrigerate an hour or longer, turning slices over occasionally.

s n to sa

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Bake for one hour at 350 degrees, turning after 30 minutes. Brown both sides or use an air fryer for a few minutes right before serving. * * * We have everything at New Kitchen store (except for the turkey) to help you get ready for your celebration. Want to keep it simple? Make it the traditional way, and try adding jams, jellies and even salsas to the table. We have a great selection of those, and also oils to keep that turkey from being dry.

New Kitchen Store is located at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton. Call 574-586-2745 and visit newkitchenstore.com for more info.

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SUPPLY SIDE

GET THE TOOLS NEEDED FOR JOBS OF MANY SIZES AT RAY-MER WELDING & SUPPLY Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Laroy Raymer, owner of Ray-mer Welding & Supply, says the goal of his business is to offer tools and fasteners for the construction industry at a competitive price.

“I want people who buy from us to feel like they are getting a good deal at a good price,” Raymer says. “I think that’s a great way to get repeat business, and get the customers we already have to tell other people about us. I want the business to grow.”

Raymer notes that when he was just starting to plan his business, he knew he had to find a solid way to compete with the big chain stores.

“I started Ray-mer Welding & Supply two years ago, and I put a hyphen in the name of the business to make it stand out,” Raymer says. “I was previously working on a carpentry crew for three years, and I decided that I could sell tools myself. I already knew a lot about them, and I decided that the time was right to start my own business. I was ready. Tools and fasteners are what I worked with for a long time. I’m glad I made the decision. I’ve really enjoyed this.”

Raymer adds that he has been able to find out even more about what customers need for their own construction businesses.

“We make and sell post brackets for Ramco Supply, and we also sell tools for the construction industry,” he says. “It’s been a good way to specialize in what our customers want.”

Raymer notes that his business offers an array of tools.

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“Our tools include drills, screw guns, impacts, and several other cordless tools,” Raymer says. “We also sell screws and nails. A lot of people are looking for drills that are well-suited for carpentry, remodeling jobs and construction.

They are also good for minor repairs, big or small carpentry jobs, and basic woodworking. We can get what you need.”

Raymer says screw guns are a must for drywall specialists and construction workers.

“I’ve become very knowledgeable about the best tools for different construction jobs and what will work best,” he says. “I can answer whatever questions you have.”

Raymer says he saw a need for people who need construction tools.

“There are also so many lake homes, trailers and boats everywhere that

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customers need quality drills, post brackets and other tools,” Raymer says.

“The big chain stores are just charging people so much money for these tools.

People can buy from us and save a lot of money. Sometimes the big chains will have a big sale, but not often enough. I want our customers to feel like they are getting high-quality tools at a great price.

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I have a store, and I can find what you need for your next construction job.”

Raymer says cordless drills have become so popular because people can get

construction jobs done faster, and they are easy to use and very efficient.

Raymer adds that he also offers shipping.

“Most of my business is shipping, but I would like to expand the business,” he says. “I want to do more local business, especially with all the people who work in the area. We want to be the cheapest place for people to go to get their next tools.

People can rely on us for high-quality tools.”

Raymer says he enjoys living and working in Argos.

“It’s so nice living out in the country,” he says. “It’s so peaceful out here, and the people are very nice,” he says.

Raymer is looking forward to seeing new customers. For more information, visit them at 8969 20 B Road in Argos, or call 574-892-5242.

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Death by Chocolate Dump Cake Death by Chocolate Dump Cake is a sweet treat for the serious chocolate lover! Using only 5 ingredients, this is quick to prepare!

Ingredients • 1 box chocolate cake mix • 1 box Instant Chocolate Pudding*small box • 2 cups milk • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Grease a 9 x 13 baking pan.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, chocolate pudding, and cocoa powder.

3. Add in the milk and stir until just combined.

4. Pour batter into the greased baking pan.

5. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the cake evenly.

6. Place pan in a preheated oven, 350, and bake for about 30 minutes, or until cooked through.

7. Remove from oven and enjoy!!

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

TAKING THE HOLIDAY IN STRIDE Add to Your Thanksgiving Traditions With the Gobble Wobble 5K

Writer / Ali Schneider Photography Provided

holidays in our country - Thanksgiving.

With its cool temperatures and the beautiful changes of nature, we look forward to one of the most popular

Thanksgiving is a time when friends and family get together, gather around the table, make delicious dishes and share memories from the year. Before you dive

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into your overfilled plate, there is a local event that could, perhaps, make you feel a little less guilty about your indulgences.

One of the most new and popular local events is the Gobble Wobble 5K. It is an

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annual race that is held around Chapman Lakes. It began as an idea for Kent Lundy and his wife, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit back in 2020. As everyone was trapped inside their homes, the couple decided they wanted a reason to get back outdoors. For them and so many others, the lack of social interaction was having a negative impact on their day-today life. This led to Lundy’s idea for an activity that anyone could participate in, to provide a little positivity to people’s mindset. Hence the Gobble Wobble 5K was born.

With many months of planning, the first Gobble Wobble took place last year and was quite the success. As they prepare to host the second race this year, they have added many enhancements to make race day even more exciting and fun for all. For example, this year they will be including chip timing, which involves a timer that goes directly onto the participant’s bib.

Race timing chips allow walkers and

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runners to see highly dependable results of their performance in live time, and review them once they cross the finish line.

Additionally, the Gobble Wobble organizers have added a long-sleeve technical T-shirt, and many other surprises this year. The list of sponsors has grown as well. Some of the top sponsors include Instru-Med, Earth Design, First United Methodist Church, Streven, Grace College, The Boat Doctors, Warsaw Chiropractic (coming soon), The Watershed Foundation, Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, CIC and more.

The event is an opportunity for the community to come together and support each other on a journey to better health.

Not only is it a fun event for the whole family, but it is also a chance to get up and get going on Thanksgiving day with a group of like-minded individuals.

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Not a runner? No problem. Lundy says anyone is able to participate.

Whether it is your first race or you have a number of 5Ks under your belt, you are welcome to join. You can walk or run at your own pace, and take in the beautiful sights of Chapman Lakes while you are at it. The race will begin and end at the Chapman Lakes Conservation Clubhouse. This means you will end up right back at your car, making it a very convenient race where you do not have to have someone pick you up at a different location once you finish.

2022 Gobble Wobble Participants

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This year the race will take place on Thanksgiving Day, which falls on November 23, and will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $45 and is open through November 22 at midnight. However, the organizers recommend that you register by November 1 to secure your shirt, timer and race packet, which will all be distributed on race day.

If you have a last-minute desire to join the race, but have not registered, you can show up on race day between 7:45 a.m and 8:30 a.m. However, be aware that if you register that day, there may not be shirts or chip timers left.

As this is a community event, the proceeds from the race will go toward the Chapman Lakes enhancement fund. This aims to improve the water quality of Chapman Lakes, along with other lake enchantments. Additionally, they are allocating proceeds for public safety initiatives such as creating awareness and safety signs for runners and cyclists.

If you are interested in participating in the Gobble Wobble 5K, you can learn more at chapmanlake.com/2023-gobblewobble.

Consider making this a new, fun and healthy tradition for you, your friends and your family. See you at the finish line!

SPECIALIZING IN HIGH QUALITY STEEL ROOFING 302 N. Heaton Street, Knox, IN 46534 • 574-772-3802 JUST SOUTH OF THE YELLOW RIVER BRIDGE ON THE US 35 CORRIDOR See us also at Twice Treasured in Plymouth Booth 39

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

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LEGACY CONCREATIONS HAS MADE A STRONG LOCAL IMPRESSION AFTER JUST ONE YEAR IN BUSINESS Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photography Provided

When Melvin Borntrager engages in conversation with a visitor, his gaze occasionally drifts to the sunlit windows of his home office. He speaks deliberately, equally wistful and joyful. He knows he is a blessed man, and more than once while chatting, he declares that he is fortunate to be here.

And where he’s been has greatly influenced where he’s going. Borntrager is eager to grow his business, Legacy Concreations, into not only a successful venture, but also as a means of giving back.

He is celebrating his first official year in business, further elevated to full-time status this past summer. Raised in a large family, Borntrager comes from a long line of individuals skilled in various fields of construction work and truck driving. Eventually he was led into the construction realm alongside his dad, but it wasn’t long before he realized his heart just wasn’t in it.

“I just didn’t feel like that was right for me,” he recalls.

Moreover, as a young man he found himself facing uncertainties about his future, and he admits to faltering at times. These were missteps that became valuable life lessons, which he now credits for his strong desire to express his

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

gratitude to those who showed him the way.

That epiphany led to his decision to form a partnership with his brother-in-law. The duo began working in concrete, taking

on projects as time allowed, while he still navigated a full-time job and a rapidly growing family. Before long, his perspective had shifted, not simply viewing his time as laborious work, but rather, as he tells it, “an opportunity to create something and

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build something that would change people’s lives.”

And so the spark was lit for what would eventually become Legacy Concreations, now a substantial force for specialty concrete work throughout northern Indiana. “It all started with a dream and a vision for the community, to build a business

where we can help the community and different organizations,” Bontrager says. “Our dreams are now bigger than that.”

With a full-time staff of three individuals and his wife, Brittany, assisting in the office tasks, Legacy Concreations has the style and expertise to develop beautiful and functional works

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for a range of residential and commercial projects, from driveways, garages and patios to basement flooring and foundations. Things have been going so well, in fact, that Borntrager is optimistic that he’ll be able to add to his workforce come spring.

“I’m a visionary,” he says. “I’m a dreamer.” So much so, that he’s also hoping to purchase new equipment in 2024, which will allow Legacy Concreations to take on more foundation work. As far as Borntrager is concerned, his imagination is limitless as to what Legacy Concreations can become.

The company is already scheduling work for the coming year, and there are a number of discounts now available to customers seeking to redesign their home or business landscapes.

To view a gallery of completed projects, visit legacyconcreations.com. The business is located at 267 East Armstrong Road in Leesburg. They also have a Facebook page, and can be reached at 574-606-9267 or at melborn88@gmail.com.

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Sixty Years Later John F. Kennedy in Indiana Writer / Jeff Kenney Photography Provided

Surely most every local reader of an age to remember will recall exactly where they were when they heard that President John F. Kennedy had been assassinated. It may be hard to believe, but that tragic day - remembered perhaps alongside national 20th-century tragedies such as Pearl Harbor and the 9/11 attacks - took place 60 years ago this month, on November 22, 1963.

And while Kennedy himself was not a Midwesterner, famously hailing instead from the east coast, this month seems an appropriate one to recollect a few of his several visits and connections to the Hoosier state.

One of the earliest, at least in relation to his presidency, took place on March 21, 1960, when then-Senator Kennedy flew to Indianapolis to officially file his entry in the May 3 Indiana presidential preference primary. Before doing so, he met for coffee with some 200 women at the Continental Hotel in that city.

Kennedy carried all seven state primaries he entered (Indiana was the seventh) on his way to the presidential nomination, defeating then-Vice President Richard M. Nixon by less than 115,000 popular votes and becoming the first president born in the 1900s, at age 43.

Senator Kennedy and his wife, Jackie, had already paid a visit to the area by the time he filed in March. The couple spent time on February 5, 1960, in northwest Indiana, including a tour of U.S. Steel in Gary.

Kennedy said the following during a press conference at the Hotel Gary that day: “If voters of Indiana do not love a candidate in May, neither they nor the nation is likely to love him in November.”

In April 1960, Kennedy visited several Indiana cities, including various stops on April 7 such as Madison County via the Anderson Municipal Airport. He visited the county courthouse, Eagles Lodge, the Pierce Governor plant, and rural and municipal locations in Alexandria. In all, more than 8,000 area residents saw THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

John F. Kennedy

the then-senator in that area.

The same day, Kennedy visited Lafayette, a city with which he was already familiar by way of a visit the previous year to Purdue University. Attending the Purdue-Notre Dame football game during the ‘59 visit, Kennedy told an inquiring reporter that he felt that as a guest of the president of Purdue, he should be rooting for that university’s team, but «as an honorary doctor from Notre Dame, I should be for them. But as a graduate of Harvard, I’m a poor judge of big-time college football!”

One memorable campaign stop took place in Richmond, Indiana, where the most notable aspect of what Kennedy said was that he didn’t say anything!

After landing at Richmond Municipal Airport on April 29, 1960, Kennedy visited the city’s downtown as well as its wellknown Earlham College. Unfortunately for him, the future president was struck with an attack of laryngitis and, arriving at Holy Family Catholic Church, was introduced by the staff member who delivered Kennedy’s prepared remarks as “the first presidential candidate in history who is speechless.”

The senator would return to Indiana’s state capitol on October

5 of that same year as part of a presidential campaign that included a stop at Anderson, where a bank had been robbed in nearby Edgewood the same morning. During his speech there, Kennedy jokingly predicted the headline: “Democrats arrive, bank robbed.”

JFK returned to the state capitol on October 13, 1962, for a rally at the Weir Cook Airport in Indianapolis in support of Indiana democratic candidates, and was joined by Governor Matthew Welsh and future U.S. Senator Birch Bayh Jr.

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Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. Tovrea assisted in laying a wreath on a monument dedicated to Tovrea’s uncle, Lieutenant Commander Edward “Butch” O’Hare, alongside another nephew, Edward Palmer. O’Hare was the U.S. Navy’s first flying ace and a Medal of Honor recipient for his service in World War II. Among other dignitaries attending the event were Chicago Mayor Richard Daley and Illinois Governor Otto Kerner.

Of course, within nine months of the Chicago event, Kennedy, who had served just two years and 10 months as chief executive, was shot to death in Dallas.

One lakes-area connection for Bayh relates to his son, future Indiana governor Evan Bayh, who attended Woodcraft Camp at Culver Military Academy in the mid-1960s.

John F. Kennedy himself had a few connections to that school.

Members of its Black Horse Troop rode in his inaugural parade in January 1961, and on March 25, 1963, Culver Military Academy cadet Philip Tovrea III joined Kennedy in dedicating

Across Indiana, schools were closed for several days, as were municipal and state offices and some businesses. Only churches seemed fully operational that day in the wake of the tragedy, as prayerful mourners filled pews.

Memorial High Mass was held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Plymouth, as reported in the Pilot News newspaper of November 23. The same edition of the paper featured a photo of 15-year-old Carl L. Jones of Oak Hill Avenue in Plymouth, who had recently found a newspaper from April 16, 1865, in his home announcing

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the assassination of President Lincoln.

In the wake of Kennedy’s death, Indiana Governor Matthew E. Welsh said that his “first reaction is one of shock and dismay followed by one of concern for the family of President Kennedy.

I am confident the people of the United States will rally to the support of President Johnson.”

The Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh, well-known president of the University of Notre Dame, responded: “On behalf of the students, faculty members and the entire Notre Dame family, I wish to express to Mrs. Kennedy, to the children, and to the entire Kennedy family, our most profound sympathy on the sudden and tragic death of the president.”

“There is nothing I can say that would convey my feelings of loss and tragedy both to the president’s family and to the nation,” said U.S. Senator Birch Bayh Jr.

unnamed bridge. When Monsignor John N. Dudine suggested that the Kentucky legislature name the new bridge for President Kennedy, Kentucky Governor Bert T. Combs announced widespread agreement and the name changed.

Among notable Hoosier-area memorials to the late president was the six-lane bridge across the Ohio River connecting Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana, christened the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge. Construction had started in the spring of 1961 and work completed in late 1963 on the as-yet

Any consideration of President Kennedy and Indiana would be remiss not to mention one of the most famous speeches in U.S. history, delivered by the late president’s brother, Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

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The younger Kennedy, running for the presidential nomination of the democratic party, was scheduled to deliver a speech at the Broadway Christian Center at 17th and Broadway streets, a majority-black neighborhood in Indianapolis, on April 4, 1968.

That fateful night saw rioting across the country in the wake of news of the assassination of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. earlier that day.

Kennedy was preparing to address the audience when news of the assassination hit, and he instead delivered impromptu remarks, credited by many with helping to quell the widespread violence that struck many U.S. cities, in the Hoosier capitol that night.

Kennedy began: “I have bad news for you, for all of our fellow citizens, and people who love peace all over the world, and that is that Martin Luther King was shot and killed tonight. Martin Luther King dedicated his life to love and to justice for his fellow human beings, and he died because of that effort.”

Kennedy recalled to the horrified crowd his own brother’s assassination, adding, “but we have to make an effort in the United States, we have to make an effort to understand, to go beyond these rather difficult times.”

Just two months later, Robert Kennedy himself would fall to an assassin’s bullet on June 6, 1968, though portions of his Indianapolis speech remain not only historically significant today, but perhaps prophetic and inspiring as well: “What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness, but love and wisdom, and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of justice toward those who still suffer within our country, whether they be white or they be black.”

Jeff Kenney is museum and archives manager for Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana.

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THE GREEN BEE OWNERS ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE PRODUCTS Writer & Photographer / Lois Tomaszewski

In the ecologically minded community, the holy grail of green living is with zero waste. That means everything used is either sustainable or recycled, and nothing goes to the landfill. The Green Bee in Goshen is helping people make strides toward this goal by helping to eliminate single-use plastic containers.

The business is owned by sisters Brandy Nichols and Ashley Anglemyer.

on offering products like liquid detergent, cleaning solutions, and shampoos that can be purchased by the ounce and poured into a recycled plastic bottle repeatedly. This part of the business is referred to as the refilling station.

“We haven’t always been living this plastic-free lifestyle,” says Anglemyer. “We never wanted to throw anything away.

Repurposing has always been a passion.”

That passion is reflected in the product lines of their store. Part of the business focuses

After visiting a refilling station in Kalamazoo, Nichols and Anglemyer thought it would be a good concept to bring

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to Goshen. They started out selling their products at the local farmers market before opening the store.

They wanted to make the store friendly and welcoming, especially to people taking that first step into eliminating plastic by refilling liquid products.

“Visiting a refilling station can be intimidating and overwhelming to people who are unfamiliar with the products,” says Anglemyer. “We don’t want that to keep people away.”

If refilling liquids is not what the customer wants to do, many products are available in bar form. The Green Bee stocks bar shampoos, soaps, dishwasher tablets, and other products that have a long shelf life and work just as well as water-based liquids.

The liquid refills and the bar products are mostly all plant based - another component of helping people live an environmentally

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friendly lifestyle.

“These are good choices,” Nichols says.

Nichols and Anglemyer agree that completely eliminating plastic from lifestyles can also be intimidating.

“Even one swap can make a difference,” Anglemyer says.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, containers and packaging made up the most plastic tonnage in municipal solid waste in 2018, at over 14.5 million tons. This category includes bags, sacks and wraps; other packaging; polyethylene terephthalate bottles and jars; high-density polyethylene natural bottles, and other containers.

Another part of the business is putting green-focused artists and entrepreneurs on display in a retail area. This area is designed to support sustainable and environmentally

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friendly products that are perfect for gifting eco-consciously, as their website states.

The Green Bee sells recycled T-shirts adorned with slogans, totes made from recycled plastic bags, tea blends, and other great gift items for everyone including pets.

Nichols says people may not think about shopping at The Green Bee for gifts, but choosing something from the store’s inventory is a good decision. “These are locally made and more meaningful than finding something at a big retailer,” she says.

“They don’t fit into a mold,” says Nichols, adding that some are vegan and some are not.

The Green Bee is located at 108 West Washington Street in Goshen. For more information, email thegreenbee22@gmail. com or visit thegreenbee22.com. Follow the store on social media as well.

On one wall known as the Waste Less Wall, a metal rack with bins suggests that the community take advantage of things no longer needed and turned into The Green Bee. Products like tissue paper, bubble wrap, bottle caps and fabric scraps can be recycled there.

It is difficult for Nichols and Anglemyer to describe their typical customer.

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Ronna Beck and Julie Sweetser

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EXPERIENCE SERENITY SALT CAVE IN GOSHEN Writer & Photographer / Lois Tomaszewski

In modern tradition, the cure for what may ail people is found in modern medicine.

That approach does not work for everyone.

For some, natural remedies are the answer, such as sitting for an hour in a room lined with Himalayan salt.

Serenity Salt Cave offers the latter.

Located in Goshen and housed in a small room inside In Style Salon, Owners Ronna Beck and Julie Sweetser have created a little bit of serenity and natural healing for their customers. Beck and Sweetser are sisters, and purchased the salt cave in 2019 from Sabrina Klotz.

Prompted by trying to find an alternative way to relieve Sweetser’s head cold that had lingered for a long time, Beck and Sweetser first became clients. Clinical studies indicate that inhaling the negative ions in the air of a salt cave can help with respiratory and vascular issues. Himalayan salt is considered the most pollutant-free of all salts found on Earth. It also contains 84 minerals and trace elements.

There is some evidence that salt-cave therapy can help to ease conditions such as acne, allergies, asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, ear infections, circulatory issues, fatigue, eczema, psoriasis, sleep

disorders, smoker’s cough, stress, anxiety, weakened immune system and more.

Purveyors of the therapy do not claim to cure any of these conditions, but it can lessen the effects of these conditions on the body.

Salt acts as a detoxifier, Sweetser says.

Someone with lots of toxins in their system will likely sweat profusely while in the cave. This varies by the individual.

Salt is also one of the few elements that is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It is also very absorbent, resulting in better hydration on the skin surface.

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2023 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 63

The benefits of inhaling salt particles were first documented among miners working in the salt mines and caves of Eastern Europe, according to the Salt Therapy Association. In this environment, factors such as air pressure, circulation, humidity and temperature contributed to creating a similar environment to what is found in modern salt-cave therapy. In an occupation deemed to be unhealthy, these miners were said to be in good health, with few respiratory issues and sound skin condition.

“It’s helped me with my year-round allergies,” Beck says.

She finds it most beneficial when she can sit in the salt cave a couple times per week.

Serenity Salt Cave is lit with low lights, relaxing music playing. Comfortable chairs are arranged near heated salt dome lamps for detoxification and vascular

64 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

circulation. The walls are covered in panels of chunky salt-rock blocks. Course and fine-grain sand covers the floor, giving the user a textural experience from foot to head. Heated salt rocks, used to

warm the areas of the body that hurt the most, are available to use, and smooth salt stones can be applied to the skin for more concentrated salt therapy.

When sitting in the salt cave, Beck and Sweetser recommend taking deep, relaxing breaths. They also discourage the use of cell phones and technology while in the cave. They say positive

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ions emitted from these devices lessens the benefits of the negative ions from salt-cave therapy. They also recommend staying hydrated before and after a session.

An hour in the salt cave has the same benefits as spending three days at the beach, Sweetser says. It can be so relaxing that some customers need a nap after a session, she says.

Up to six people can use the salt cave at one session. Serenity Salt Cave has also hosted parties and bridal showers.

Sessions $10 per hour and monthly memberships are available. Appointments can be made through the business’s social media, or by calling the shop at 574-534-6556, ext. 114. It is located at 508 West Lincoln Avenue in Goshen.

For more information, email them at Serenitysaltcavegoshen@gmail.com.

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Pictured is Mike Andrews, owner and founder of The Healthy Homestead

HEALTH AND HEALING GOSHEN COUPLE OPENS THE HEALTHY HOMESTEAD WITH WELLNESS IN MIND

Writer & Photographer / Ali Schneider

Mike Andrews is the owner and founder of The Healthy Homestead. It is a small co-op located in Goshen that he and his wife, Lisa, operate out of the side of their home.

Andrews never expected this to be his calling in life, but that all changed in 2021 when he began experiencing severe pain all over his body.

A longtime professional truck driver, Andrews had to call his career quits due to the severity of the pain. As his career came

to a screeching halt, he did not know where to turn.

digestion and his immune system, as well as heavy nausea.

“It started with severe pain in my feet, which prevented me from walking,” he says. “I was diagnosed with gout arthritis and was prescribed heavy-duty prescription antiinflammatory medications.”

After Andrews had a visit to an emergency room, which, thankfully, did not result in a heart attack, he knew he had to take his health into his own hands. That is when he began studying day in and day out on alternative medicine, and the benefits of Although he was hopeful, these medications consuming organic foods and products. led to side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo and blackouts. He Fast-forward to 2022, and Andrews opened then tried antibiotics as another potential the doors of The Healthy Homestead to the solution. However, this came with its own public. His mission behind the company is list of complications, including issues with simple. He wants to offer natural, organic

68 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

and homeopathic products to the public in an environment they can trust. When you step inside The Healthy Homestead, you will see a large refrigerator stocked with products such as fresh, local, raw milk.

The milk is certified organic grass-fed A2, never pasteurized, never homogenized, and without GMOs. You will also find raw sour cream, organic cheese, cage-free eggs, natural teas and a variety of juices. The product selection varies from week to week, based on customer demand and what is in season.

As you continue through the small but fully stocked side building, you will find natural pastas, facial creams, organic castor oils, and local produce. One of the most popular skin-care items comes from the brand Dr. Squatch. Andrews inspects the ingredients of all products to ensure he can educate his customers, so they can decide what will best meet their health needs.

Aside from natural goods, Andrews is a representative for Activation Products. This allows him to combine natural medical products in addition to nutritional items.

“What I went through I would not wish on my worst enemy,” he says. “I opened up my heart and increased my empathy towards others that cannot get any help from our conventional medical facilities. You are your own best doctor. I teach people that they can revert their body back to repairing and healing itself once again, the way God intended it to.”

Aside from the co-op, Andrews is back to

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doing what he loves as a part-time driver.

He will take people around the region to wherever they need to go. This gives him a chance to connect with the community, and spread his passion for natural health and wellness. Andrews says it is not an easy journey, and it took a lot of work for him to understand the benefits of healing naturally versus taking prescribed drugs. However, he says he has never felt better.

He loves sharing his story and hearing others’ stories of healing, which happens once a month at a local gathering right at his home. It is free and open to the public, and people can gather, encourage each other and learn a thing or two.

If you are looking to improve your health, or simply want to know where your food is coming from, consider joining The Healthy Homestead co-op for only $25 a year. Mike and Lisa Andrews look forward to walking with you on your journey.

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“No one should have to do it alone,” Andrews says.

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Kiera Johns

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It is a process to find the Mishawaka Res, or the Res, as it is also known. Getting there takes you through a subdivision off of Woodhouse Drive, on a road with turns and curves that runs parallel to a railroad track. The destination, however, is a treasure to be found.

The Res has been a part of Mishawaka for a century. It was founded in 1920 as a Boy Scout camp and continued in that function until 1975. A nonprofit organization, The Preservation of the Res, Inc., formed and took over ownership and management of the 20-acre park. It was then that the use changed. It is open to the community, with the goal of fostering

72 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2023 / TownePost.com

an appreciation for this wooded oasis in the middle of the city.

Kiera Johns, the executive director and park ranger, is marking one year on the job this month, but the Mishawaka native already had familial ties to the park. Her family has often used the Lodge and other facilities for family get-togethers and celebrations.

As the only full-time employee, Johns has a long list of job responsibilities. It takes her six hours to mow the grass. She also makes repairs, answers the phones, takes reservations and cleans.

She is also making connections with other organizations to bring educational and interesting programming to the park.

Much of the history of The Res has come from community connections, Johns says. The Tri Kappa Nature Center is one example. Built by the local chapter of this statewide women’s philanthropic organization, members of the sorority returned to paint the floors and do other chores in the building.

The Lions Club and the Kiwanis Club contributed to The Res by building cabins. The Lions Club Cabin, located below the original lodge, sleeps 24 people in bunk beds, and the Kiwanis Cabin sleeps 12.

There are also two Adirondack structures, the Barbara Emmans

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Adirondack Shelter and Jeremiah’s Cabin. These are designed for more primitive camping. The Emmans shelter can accommodate 12 sleeping bags and Jeremiah’s Cabin can accommodate 20.

These facilities are available to rent, in addition to tent sites in the Meadow and woods. Reservations to rent are required and some restrictions apply, Johns says. The Jernegan Lodge was built in 1949. This building is the largest on the property and accommodates up to 70 people. With a full kitchen, it is a popular place for reunions, bridal showers, baby showers, family gatherings and other types of events.

This past year, Johns says she has focused on projects like the removal of invasive species. A team of Americorps volunteers this summer pulled 33,000 invasive plants from the grounds. There is an educational component in this project, she says.

“Just because a plant is green and lush doesn’t mean it’s good for the environment,” Johns says.

There are still many more plants that need to be removed. That will be on the list of tasks to be done when another Americorps team returns next summer.

The Res team uses the slogan, “Where recreation and education meet.” Johns is committed to making sure that this park continues Agriculture Buildings -Equipment storage -Equestrian stables -Livestock facilities

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to serve the community. There are daily visitors who come to the park to hike the two miles of trails. There are many examples of Eagle Scout projects on the grounds, including a bridge crossing a creek that is a tributary to the St. Joseph river, a storybook walk, or the recently installed raised planters at the park entrance.

“I invite the public to come and see how our community partners have made a place like this,” she says.

Although there is still a long list of projects Johns wants to accomplish in the next year, more than anything else, she wants to encourage the community to visit and take the opportunity to walk in the woods, learn about nature from local experts, or celebrate those special moments with family and friends in the Jernegan Lodge.

“This is the only wooded area open to the public,” she says.

“Mishawaka has fantastic parks, but it’s not like being in the woods.”

The Mishawaka Res is located at 13950 Scout Lane in Mishawaka. It is open every day from dawn to dusk. For more information, call 574259-1850 or visit mishawakares.org. Also find out about upcoming events on their Facebook page.

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What’s Happening at the Lakes in November Elkhart County

November 3, 2023 Children’s Resale | Elkhart The Children’s Resale is a semi-annual sale held every Spring & Fall at the Northern Indiana Event Center in Elkhart, Indiana. As a ministry of Mt. Tabor Church of God in Etna Green, Indiana, the sale is run 100% by volunteers from the Michiana community.

Children’s Resale offers gently used, children & teen clothing, along with maternity, baby gear, shoes, toys, outdoor play equipment, & so much more! https://www.facebook.com/thechildrensresale November 3, 2023 Goshen Light Parade A spectacle of lighted floats and parade entries wind their way down Main Street as the downtown rooftops and stores will be lit along the way. Comfort food specials are also on parade with soups, warm drinks and other hearty, cold-night foods featured at downtown eateries. https://downtowngoshen.org/events/2023-november/ November 4, 2023 Elkhart Parks & Recreation Fall Pop-Up Market The 6th annual Fall Fabulous Pop-Up Market will be held at the High Dive Pavilion. There will be artisans & crafters selling their wares, so plan to shop for the holiday season. https://www.facebook.com/ElkhartParks November 4, 2023 Holiday Craft Bazaar | Middlebury First United Methodist Church is hosting a holiday craft bazaar and bake sale with assorted craft items as well as breakfast and lunch for purchase. Proceeds will be shared by the Middlebury Food Pantry and Bashor Children’s Home. https://www.goshennews.com/news/holiday-craftsbazaars-sept-7-2023/article_d24caf24-4cc6-11ee8786-bb1a256b6aea.html November 11, 2023 Goshen Reptile Expo | Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds A monthly show and sale of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, mammals, birds, supplies, cages, plants, accessories and foods for all your pets and a great place to meet animal experts. https://collisonzoo.com/ November 18, 2023 Elkhart Northside Craft & Vendor Bazaar Elkhart Northside Church of the Nazarene’s Craft & Vendor Bazaar is back for the 3rd annual event with over 50 booths of fun crafts, direct sales and small business. Free admission so come and join the fun and shop for all your holiday and personal items.

Also featured is an amazing bake sale and concessions stand selling breakfast, lunch and snacks! https://www.facebook.com/ events/1034623630834018 November 18, 2023 Hometown Holidays | Nappanee Visit Main Street Roasters and Neighbors Mercantile Co during their annual Customer Appreciation event.

This is the perfect opportunity to view their selection of new holiday merchandise and enjoy giveaways, live music and all the usual festivities that start the Christmas season off. https://www.facebook.com/events/266107482978691 November 18, 2023 Nappanee Home for the Holidays Craft & Vendor Market A holiday craft & vendor show specializing in homemade crafts mixed with some of your favorite

local and direct sales companies. Come and grab some great gifts for those on your list or treat yourself! https://www.facebook.com/ Nappaneeholidaycraftmarket

done early and support a great cause! Every person who comes will get a ticket to place in a basket they hope to win donated by our vendors. https://www.facebook.com/ events/1713703205804314

Kosciusko County

November 28, 2023 Fort Wayne Philharmonic Christmas Show | Kendallville The Fort Wayne Philharmonic features the Calhoun Brass Quintet for their Christmas show. This will be a Holiday-themed performance filled with lots of classics you and your family are sure to love! https://www.facebook.com/events/302340358997661

November 4, 2023 Christmas at the Lake Craft Show | Pierceton This year’s show has more than 50 vendors displaying and selling their handmade products such as baked goods, pottery, quilted bags, hand-carved wood pieces, handmade rugs, jewelry, baskets, candles, wreaths, baby and seasonal items. Proceeds benefitting Riley Hospital for children. https://visitkosciuskocounty.org/events/christmas-atthe-lake-craft-show/ November 4, 2023 Does Nature Love Us Back – Syracuse Community Center https://www.facebook.com/ChautauquaWawasee/ November 18, 2023 Tree Lighting Ceremony | Winona Lake Bring the entire family for an afternoon of fun at The Village Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will be train rides for all ages, kid’s ornament making and Christmas Carolers throughout the Village. Free cookies and hot chocolate with the arrival of Santa.

As admission, please bring a new and unwrapped toy to be donated to Toys for Tots. https://visitkosciuskocounty.org/events/tree-lightingceremony/ November 18, 2023 Milford Holiday Market The Milford Holiday Market will be hosting dozens of vendors consisting of artists, bakers, creators and small businesses. Breakfast and lunch will be available from the Milford Helping Hands 4-H Club.

Free Admission. https://www.facebook.com/milfordbazaar08 November 23, 2023 Gobble Wobble 5K | Warsaw The Chapman Lakes Conservation Association is hosting this event on Thanksgiving Day! This is a chip timed race with registration fee and guaranteed finisher medal. Parking is limited, so carpooling is encouraged. Proceeds will go toward lake conservation and safety initiatives. https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Warsaw/ ChapmanLakeGobbleWobble5k November 25, 2023 Old Fashioned Christmas – Oakwood in Syracuse Enjoy the Live Nativity and Sleigh Rides …and, of course, the Big Tree Lighting. https://www.facebook.com/ChautauquaWawasee/

Noble County

November 5, 2023 Holiday Craft Bazaar & Bake Sale | Kendallville The American Legion Auxiliary Post 86 presents their 9th annual celebration to kick off the holiday season. Take home holiday gifts and enjoy some baked goodies. https://www.facebook.com/search/ top?q=kendallville%20holiday%20craft%20bazaar November 5, 2023 2023 Holiday Market | Country Heritage Winery & Vineyard, LaOtto Our Holiday Market is back and bigger than ever, all for a great cause! This year there will be around 40 vendors outside starting at the heated gazebo & down through our stage area. Get your holiday shopping

November 30, 2023 Christmas Tree Lighting & Wagon Rides | Kendallville Join the community in this annual tradition to welcome the holiday season! Enjoy Christmas carols, tasty treats and baked goods. Wagon rides will be provided from 6-8 pm with free-will donations benefitting Historic Downtown Kendallville. https://www.kendallvillemainstreet.com/events/ christmas-tree-lighting-%26-wagon-rides

St. Joseph County

November 3, 2023 Flannel Formal | Mishawaka Flannel Formal is back! There will be live music from Michael Kelsey, brews from Sun King Mishawaka, axe throwing, Lumberjack and Lumberjane costume contest and more! Tickets are $5 and you can preregister. Guests will receive a commemorative mug while supplies last, so grab your coziest flannel and be sure to get there early! https://mishawaka.recdesk.com/Community/ Program November 3, 2023 B100 Country Night at Cheers | Roseland B100country Country night is coming to Cheers!

The party includes line dancing and country music playing all night long! Be sure to bring your boots and cowboy/cowgirl hat and get ready to get down!

Bring your favorite country music song in mind because our Country Music DJ will be ready to play your tunes! https://www.facebook.com/ events/620152746665741/620568136624202/?active_ tab=about November 4, 2023 West Side Church of Christ Holiday Craft & Vendor Show | South Bend There is an exciting line-up of some repeat vendors/ crafters and some new! There will be 45 tables on two floors with a wide variety of merchandise to choose from. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone else, you’re sure to find just the perfect item. There will also be lunch and a bake sale with kieflies! https://www.visitsouthbend.com/event/westside-church-of-christ-holiday-craft-%26-vendorshow/4241/ November 5, 2023 Tail Waggin’ Hayride | New Carlisle Bring your dog for a tractor-drawn hayride through the crisp autumn air. Afterwards, warm up by the campfire with free hot cocoa and s’mores. Pet-related donations aid PetsConnect! Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times, and pet costumes are welcome! http://sjcparks.org/Calendar.

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