The Lakes of Kosciusko Magazine February 2022 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

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

FEBRUARY 2022

MAGAZINE

ROMANCE MEETS RELAXATION... CUSTOM CRAFTSMANSHIP

Duane Miller Creates Custom Cabinets and More at Crestview Woodworking EAT UP

The Diner Dishes Out Customer Favorites

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Midwest Farm & Pet, LLC A DIFFERENCE YOU CAN SEE Trusted & Proven Performance

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Mastering The Beauty!

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New Homes • Restoration • Strip & Re-stain Garage • Closets • Decks • Pole Barns • Interior Remodeling • Log Home Maintenance Yoder’s Log & Timber Pros is a small, family Metal Roofs • Custom Traditional Homes • Custom Log Cabin Homes • Custom Log Railing owned and operated log home business. We specialize in producing custom built log home with a strong belief in quality and integrity.

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Ph: 574-825-7918 | Fax: 574-825-0209 59162 CR 43 Middlebury, IN 46540 TownePost.com / FEBRUARY 2022 / THE LAKES / 3

SLABACH COUNTRY SALES NEW ATTRACTIVE BATTERY POWERED LIGHTS

MACRAME, SHIRTS, SEWING SUPPLIES, DOTERRA, CLOCKS, DIFFUSERS, FABRIC, TOYS, GAMES, GREETING CARDS, HOUSEWARES & MORE.

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On the east side of Webster Lake and also on the Barbee Chain of Lakes.

Your Dream, We Design & Build

REMARKS

Revised Front Porch & Roof

12/20/2021

REVISIONS

Adjusted Colors

Changed interior doors and front entry door. Revised bathroom, changed soffit and fascia color.

Multiple Revisions

Quick Foundation Mod. (Need to update rest of print.)

11/5/2021

10/25/2021

10/26/2021

10/20/2021

MM/DD/YY

Drawn By: Payton Sword / Jason Hill

We strive for accuracy in the drawing of this print, however mistakes can happen. Please review this drawing and let the drafter know if there is something that needs revision. It is the builders respsonsibility to ensure that this design is accurate and to follow applicable building codes.

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A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

IN THIS ISSUE

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FEBRUARY 2022

CUSTOM CRAFTSMANSHIP

Duane Miller Creates Custom Cabinets and More at Crestview Woodworking

Goshen Historical Society Keeps the Past Alive

Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

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Romance Meets Relaxation...

Warsaw Practice Puts a Focus on Quality Dentistry - and Giving Back

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Romp-N-Play Stables Celebrates Nearly 20 Years in Business

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Amish Kuntry Fried Pie Bakes Up Fresh Treats

RAISE THE DOUGH REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

ARTISTIC VISION

PIECES OF HISTORY

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

CREATIVE CORNER

Local Nonprofit Supports Couples Seeking Adoption

55 EAT UP

The Diner Dishes Out Customer Favorites

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LAKES

SPREADING SUCCESS

Beech Road Seed & Fertilizer Focuses on Customer Satisfaction

KEY CONTRIBUTORS ABBY RENZ / ANGELA CORNELL / JUBILEE EDGELL / JULIE YATES KARI LIPSCOMB / LOIS TOMASZEWSKI / MATT KEATING

CUSTOM CRAFTSMANSHIP DUANE MILLER CREATES CUSTOM CABINETS AND MORE AT CRESTVIEW WOODWORKING “I decided there was more to life than working in factories,” he says.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

A hobby often evolves into a business, and Duane Miller’s endeavor is an example of this. After 21 years working in factories and a desire to work from home, Miller turned his 17-year woodworking hobby into a thriving custom cabinet business.

Miller balances many responsibilities. He was recently ordained as a minister in addition to his roles as a husband and father.

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He opened Crestview Woodworking in January of 2010 at his family’s home near Shipshewana. He and his wife Mary raised six sons, ranging in age from 9 to 22, and one daughter. His operation at his home is, in his words, “a one-man shop,” although his older boys help with the installation of the cabinets.

Inside the shop are the equipment and supplies Miller needs to do his work. It is a shop filled with woodworking equipment and the tell-tale fragrance of wood. In this shop, Miller specializes in making kitchen and bathroom cabinets to customer specifications. On occasion you might find Miller working on other custom pieces like a bookshelf, bookcase or rolltop desk. A rolltop desk was a special project completed for a customer. By definition, it is a writing desk with a sliding cover made from parallel slats fastened to a flexible backing. Miller recalls that it was a unique request and an unusually large piece - about 10’ wide and 8’ tall. “The customer was happy with the piece,” he says, “That’s what we want - happy customers.” When a customer needs cabinets or even a shelf or two, Miller will go out and take measurements of the specific location.

Kitchens · Baths · Furniture & Special Request Orders

Crestview Woodworking ish Fine Am hip ans Craftsm

PH: 260-768-4707 FAX: 260-768-4933 6510W 450N · SHIPSHEWANA, IN TownePost.com / FEBRUARY 2022 / THE LAKES / 7

Duane Mil ler 17 Years E xperience

“THE MOST SATISFYING PART OF MY WORK IS SEEING THE SMILE ON THE WOMAN’S FACE WHEN SHE GETS WHAT SHE WANTED.” -DUANE MILLER-

He then consults with the customer on choice of wood, door and trim designs, and other components needed to complete the look the customer wants. A design is then sketched and presented to the customer for approval. “Customer satisfaction is our main goal,” he says. This consultation is usually with the women of the house, and Miller says they typically have a good idea of what they want in design and function.

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People often want custom cabinets because this option gives them exactly what they want, Miller says. It may take longer to complete the order, but the upside is that the customer does not have to settle for ordinary cabinets. “The most satisfying part of my work is seeing the smile on the woman’s face when she gets what she wanted,” Miller says. Custom work is not something that many shops take on anymore, he says. Wholesale is easier to do, but that leaves little variety for homeowners or builders. Some people want to have unique features in their home, including functional pieces like kitchen cabinets. It was this information passed on from local builders that prompted Miller to focus on custom work. An average order takes between two and four weeks to complete in Miller’s shop. The more elaborate the design, the longer it takes. After the cabinets are assembled, the pieces are sent out to be finished.

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Saturday 8:00am-1:00pm 260-593-2769 5995 W. 200 S Topeka, IN 46571 At the 4-way stop in Emma

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He works with a variety of wood species, from local woods to more exotic species. His shop can handle cabinets and orders of all sizes. He recently completed 50 cabinets of the same design for a pet shop installation. He can also manufacture cabinets out of plastic - often a wise option for storage in basements or garages. He also offers trim packages that include baseboards and window trim for new construction.

Miller offers some tips for homeowners to ensure that wood cabinets are cared for properly. First, avoid putting wood cabinets in high-moisture areas. Keep them clean, but avoid using harsh chemicals to clean

the finish. Anyone interested in finding out more, and those interested in having custom cabinets built, can call Miller at 260-768-

Honeyville Concrete, LLC For Flat Work Contact: Darin Yoder 260-585-4531

4707. Inquiries may also be faxed to 260768-4933. His shop is located at 6510 West 450 North in Shipshewana. Miller says those planning on coming to the shop should call first.

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PIECES OF HISTORY GOSHEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY KEEPS THE PAST ALIVE Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

In 1981, in acknowledgement of Goshen’s 150th anniversary, the now-razed Gardner house was filled with an eclectic mix of historic furniture, photos and articles brought in by residents. It was so well-received, the idea of starting a historical society was formed. Today the Goshen Historical Society Museum, located

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in the old Adams Store at 124 South Main Street, is the result of that celebration. Although the Goshen Historical Society began during the town’s sesquicentennial, it was several years before it found a permanent home. When the Gardner house was torn down, the historic content inside was either taken back by people who initially donated it, or put in storage. Then, in 1997, the Adams retail store closed when the Ruby Pauline “Polly” Adams, made the decision to close her family business that had been in operation for nearly 100 years. “She was the last of the Adams family and quite the character,”

says Earlene Nofziger, who was board president when the museum began, has served on the board for 25 years and is now an auxiliary member volunteer. “The Society bid on and got the building. With it came anything attached to the wall. We purchased the original glass showcases. A lot of the merchandise had price tags in her handwriting.” The building was one of several built in 1888 by Charles A. Harper and the inscription at the top reads “Harper Block 1888.” In 1901, C.G. Adams & Sons took the building over for their business that, among other things, sold costume jewelry, long underwear and suitcases. It was an official merchandiser for Boy Scouts of America uniforms and books. Polly Adams represented the

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third generation to run the store. “We are only the third owners of the building,” Nofziger says. “It took us a couple years to get it up to code. We had to upgrade the electrical and plumbing as well as the heating and air conditioning systems.” All the artifacts and memorabilia inside the museum are specific to Goshen, whether they were manufactured and sold there, or personally owned by a member of the community. Almost every article has been donated except for a few items purchased from bequest money. The current collection preserves the history of the community but the Society is always on the lookout for additional items. “We have a lady’s bike from the Ariel bicycle company that was a Warsaw business from 1891 to 1897,” Nofziger says. “It would be nice to have one of their racing bikes, because that was what they were known for. Although we have some Potawatomi artifacts, we need to find out more about them. Local photographer Marion Troyer gave us a large number of photos he owned and also from other collections that he had bought. Several are glass negatives and we are trying to catalog them all.” Displays are changed out every quarter and visitors to the museum can use a guest computer to do their own research. There is a children’s area where articles can be touched and guesses can be made as to what

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objects were used for. There are old clocks, glass lenses and outdated kitchen items left over from the store inventory belonging to Polly Adams. There is also a small gift shop on site that sells postcards, CDs and books about Goshen. “We recently got a grant from the city so we have a lot to think about,” Nofziger says. “We are an all-volunteer organization and we need to explore how to get, train and use volunteers better. We are within walking distance of several schools, and the third-grade social studies curriculum is ‘Community.’ One of our original missions was to give programs and even before we were in the Adams Store we did that.” On March 17 the Society will host a talk by Randy Clouse on the early history of the Jefferson Theatre, known today as the Goshen Theater. It will be held at 7 p.m. at the Jennings Auditorium at Greencroft Goshen.

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The Goshen Historical Society Museum is open Tues. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. except for First Fridays, when it is open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. It is located at 124 South Main Street and can be reached at 574-975-0033. Visit the Society’s website to learn more at goshenhistorical.org.

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ROMANCE MEETS RELAXATION... Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

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ANASTASIA TAPPER | OWNER | GM THE CITY PLAZA 1012 E. UNIVERSITY DRIVE GRANGER, IN 46530

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etting a massage or a facial can be one of the best ways to relax. The Woodhouse Day Spa in Granger, which is part of a national elite franchise, offers more than 70 superlative services. But that’s not all. “It’s not only about the services - the massages, the facials, the nail services that you’re getting here,” says Owner Anastasia Tapper. “It’s the experience. It’s the whole package that you get here at the Woodhouse.” As an entrepreneur at heart, Tapper has always wanted to own her own business, but she didn’t want to own just any business. She wanted to provide a service that would make people feel happy and relaxed. What better way to do that than through a spa? After becoming an esthetician, she

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decided to open the Woodhouse Day Spa in Granger. Everyone who works at the spa contributes to Tapper’s vision. “You come in and get that opportunity to do what you love to do,” says Lead Masseuse Julia Rubio. “You can do what you can to give them that full experience of either relaxation, if that’s what they’re looking for, or therapeutic help to ease pain and discomfort. You really get that freedom with the Woodhouse to use your knowledge to help people.” The Woodhouse experience begins as soon as a client walks through the door. “You come into this tranquil zone and you feel relaxed just as you open the door,” Tapper says.

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Customers are escorted to a changing lounge where they are given a soft bathrobe and comfortable slippers. They are then taken to the relaxation area to wait until their masseuse is ready. “We have a fireplace, some snacks and chocolate for you to enjoy while you’re sitting and waiting or filling out the paperwork,” Tapper explains. “We do offer complimentary wines, champagnes, mimosas, hot teas, coffees and spa waters, to your comfort level.” Services include standard massages, but many are as exclusive as they are exquisite, like body wraps and body scrubs. One such service is the French-originated Vichy shower. During this treatment, the guest lays down on a special massage table while being sprayed with water from healing

mineral hot springs. Often this treatment is paired with a body scrub, acupuncture, or a facial like a mud mask or scalp massage. Beyond relaxation, those who struggle with arthritis, congestive complaints, digestive issues like bloating and water retention, or other ailments often find relief. “It helps with your lymphatic system and gets your circulatory system moving, so it really helps to increase the benefits of any kind of detoxing treatment that you do,” Rubio says. “It’s really relaxing and therapeutic. It’s an amazing service to get.” The Woodhouse offers more than 20 different facials. Two of the most popular are HydraFacials and dermaplane facials. The HydraFacial is one of the top cleansing facials offered at the Woodhouse. “It’s like a carpet shampooer for your skin,” says Heather Fisher, an esthetician at the spa. “It’s really a perfect description. It gets everything out of the skin - all the debris.

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Then in the back of the machine there’s a collection cup and you can see what comes out of your skin, so you have that instant gratification.” This service is available in 50- or 80-minute sessions. A guest who takes the longer facial receives added benefits like lymphatic drainage and LED light therapy, which will either help with increased circulation or will treat and prevent acne, depending on which LED color the guest chooses.

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Dermaplaning is on the cutting edge of spa therapy. It’s also a recent addition to the Woodhouse menu. This 50-minute service deeply exfoliates a guest’s face while simultaneously removing vellus hair with the latest in sonic exfoliation technology. Even those with acne or rosacea complaints can enjoy this relaxing facial. For guests interested in getting a facial but who aren’t sure which would be best, Fisher and the other estheticians are willing to help.

Hilary Martinez Director of Operations

Iulia Boronnikova Nail Department Lead

Maryjo Hochstetler Esthetician Department Lead

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“If someone doesn’t know where to start with a facial, we can book them a basic facial and then we can better design a skin-care journey for them to get the results they’re looking for,” Fisher explains. For those who want to take a bit of the Woodhouse home, many of the products used are available for purchase. These exclusive products come from around the world. One of their most popular and most frequently used is BABOR, which comes from Germany.

18 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2022 / TownePost.com

“It somewhat compares to the Mercedes,” Tapper says. “They’re one of the elite cars. BABOR is one of the elite brands in Europe for skin-care.” Fisher concurs. “You get phenomenal results and the quality you’re getting is phenomenal just because it’s a European skin-care line,” Fishers says. “There’s a huge list of ingredients that they’re not allowed to use, so the quality of their products is better.” The Woodhouse also offers packages like the VIP package. This signature, year-long package entitles a guest to their own relaxation room and robe, as well as discounts on retail products whenever they come in for services. VIP guests also get a bottle of champagne and a charcuterie board during their visit. “It’s basically elite and exclusive perks,”

Tapper says. “You get a little bit more to just splurge.” Whether a guest is looking for a place to get their nails done for the weekend or massage therapy for a chronic condition, the Woodhouse exists to provide an experience that will help them relax and heal physically and mentally.

or to schedule an appointment, call 574893-8038 or visit woodhousespas.com. To stay informed on their newest services, follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

“You kind of forget about the world that’s left out there when you step into our doors,” Tapper says. “It’s just about you. You just spoil and pamper yourself, and forget about all the problems, all the intensity that’s out there. Now that we’re facing COVID and all the issues that came with it, I feel that stress release is a number-one priority. If you can find just an hour - if not weekly, biweekly or monthly for yourself, it’s just definitely the treat that is much needed.” Visit the Woodhouse Day Spa at 1012 East University Drive in Granger. For more info

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MORE THAN A SIMPLE APRON Writer / Abby Renz Photography Provided

What is the very first thing that comes to your mind when you think of an apron? There are all types of aprons for varying activities: Blacksmith’s aprons made of heavy leather and hide, a simple apron for a waitress wore around the waist, or even a punny ‘Kiss the Cook’ apron for the grinning father manning the grill at the family barbecue. But what about a kitchen apron?

for the perfect mother/daughter gift. All can usually recall memories of a grandmother, mother, and father wearing different aprons, and can find what works for them and their kitchen needs. But, is it truly just a “simple apron”?

I shared a photo of myself after cooking a delicious Christmas feast, face flushed from cooking and feeling victorious in my sunshine-yellow Heirloom apron by Danica. My brother responded to the photo in the text, “You look like a Betty-Homemaker!” Of course, I know he was teasing me, as Some may recall the image of a brothers do, but it made me question the grandmother in her kitchen with flour stigma and feelings towards the simple dusted on her cheeks, a twinkle in her eye, and wiping her hands on her favorite flower- kitchen apron. I replied I can do so much more than be a “little homemaker,” but A lot of individuals searching for the perfect adorned apron. While this is a beautiful image to conjure, aprons are not limited to I also questioned why this was an insult, kitchen apron go by feel, soft cotton that grandmothers, or stay-at-home wives from when there is nothing wrong with making a washes well, study canvas that can handle the 50s. Unfortunately, kitchen aprons do house a home. oil splatters, and (of course) pockets! Some still hold this “antiquated stigma” as being a enjoy beautiful designs, while others want When I put on my apron, I think of the practical and utilitarian, others searching symbol for a “simple homemaker.”

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sunshine and warmth of the heart of our home: the Kitchen. I think of the many meals that I have made with my hands, the dishes I’ve lovingly cleaned and how many gatherings I’ve hosted wearing my apron. To me it’s more than a practical way to shield my clothing from splatters and spills. It’s more than extra pockets. It’s a badge, it is a designated uniform. It proclaims to my household that I am at ease in my kitchen, where it is my kitchen and my rules. They

know that any and every meal made was prepared with love and maybe a little imagination. I know that this is the same apron that I will wear when I become a mother, and prepare lunches and meals for my future children. This is the apron that my daughters will want to borrow to make their father a birthday cake, or my son’s to wash dishes and wear as a cape. This is an apron that I will wear when I too bake cookies for my grandchildren.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2022 / TownePost.com / 23

When picking an apron, whether using it daily or for holidays, remember how many memories it will carry, the joy and warmth of the kitchen. Here at New Kitchen Store, we can help you find what suits your needs, or the needs for a gift. We have various materials to choose from such as linen, cotton, canvas, leather, and more. From mother and daughter aprons, matching aprons for sisters and friends, heavy-duty aprons for gentlemen, and so much more. Our trained staff is eager to help you find just what you are looking for with a smile. Because we know that finding the perfect apron is bonding time between a mother and daughter who wear their matching aprons while baking muffins, or father and son who learns to make eggs or a mean steak. It’s more. It’s tradition and education. It’s practical and still whimsical. It is so, so much more than a simple apron.

24 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2022 / TownePost.com

SLICE OF GOODNESS AMISH KUNTRY FRIED PIE BAKES UP FRESH TREATS Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Marlin Miller, co-owner of Amish Kuntry Fried Pie in Millersburg, says he is glad he took over the popular business in 2014. “My wife Anna and I bought the business from John Mullet, who did a great job,” Miller says. “We wanted to make sure we kept up the high quality of the pies to keep our customers happy, and we did. We still aren’t sure where John came up with his name for the business, but it works.” The Millers succeeded in their business goal of increasing sales, and have attracted new customers in the process. “John Mullet moved to Wisconsin and started a pretzel business,” Miller says. “We were able to take his successful business and build on it to keep it moving forward in the right direction. We make sure every pie is fresh, delicious and very flavorful. We also sell the same 13 flavors, and people know what they are getting.” The 13 flavors include seedless black raspberry, apple, peach, cherry, strawberry,

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strawberry rhubarb, blueberry, Bavarian cream, lemon, chocolate, peanut butter, coconut, and pumpkin, which is seasonal.

six festivals a year that we participate in that also really help with sales.” Miller adds that he sells pies wholesale at Double R Grocery in Millersburg.

Miller says sales have been strong in the last several months.

“People enjoy buying the pies at Double “Ninety percent of our revenues are from R Grocery, and we also do well at different fundraising efforts for schools, hospitals and summer produce stands,” Miller says. “The churches,” Miller says. “There are also five or pies are also taken to bazaars.”

Miller gets a lot of satisfaction from people enjoying the freshness of the pies. “We have one woman who takes our pies to different flea markets,” Miller says. “She goes to Shipshewana and on the road. She does a lot of sales for us. Our wholesale revenues are really strong, and we also do well at different festivals.” Miller is grateful for sales at churches and

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schools. “Every year our sales increase because the churches and schools do so many fundraisers,” Miller says. “The people involved in the school charities take a lot of orders and sell the pies for things like soccer team events. The coaches get team members to sell the pies to raise money for uniforms and team trips. During the fundraisers we get a certain percentage from the sales of the pies. It’s nice to be able to make a profit, and also help the schools and churches at the same time.” Miller says certain pies have remained big sellers. “Our four most popular pies have been the fruit flavors,” Miller says. “They are the black raspberry, apple, peach and cherry pies. People have said they really love those flavors, but we also do a lot of sales with all of the other flavors.”

Miller adds that people in Millersburg and the surrounding areas have been very kind to him and his family over the years.

to have a family.” Miller notes that he and Anna get a lot of help with Amish Kuntry Fried Pie from their children.

“I’ve lived in this area for my whole life and I really love it,” Miller says. “This is a beautiful “Our kids do a lot of work to keep the place, and it’s a special area. It’s a great place business going,” he says. “Our daughter Lori

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is 17 and our son Jaylin is 15. They do their jobs right and know what they are doing. We also enjoy working with them.”

love our pies and that makes you feel good,” Miller says. “There is a huge fundraising base of family and friends that are trying to better their community, and they have made us a part of that.”

Miller says Amish Kuntry Fried Pie has also been successful through positive word of mouth.

Contact Amish Kuntry Fried Pie, Located at 10750 West 600 South in Millersburg, at 260-593-0209.

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RAISE THE DOUGH LOCAL NONPROFIT SUPPORTS COUPLES SEEKING ADOPTION Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

nfertility is a painful reality that few understand unless they have dealt with it or know someone who has. For those who have been there, it’s a day-by-day, sometimes moment-by-moment battle. That was something Tobe Forshtay, founder of Raise the Dough, learned when he walked through it with some friends who struggled to have children.

Forshtay says. “It was really sweet.”

Before the idea of Raise the Dough was conceived, Forshtay and his wife Jaclyn were leading a small church-based group with six young married couples in their home. Their time together consisted of growing together in friendship as they centered on the word of God and prayer for each other.

It didn’t take long for children to come along. Then one of the couples, Kelly Morrow and his wife Heidi, discovered they couldn’t have children.

“That became the cadence of our time,”

As time went on, eventually couples began making prayer requests about growing their families. At first Forshtay had trouble taking those prayer requests seriously. “To me those were ‘softball’ prayer requests,” he says.

“It wrenched our hearts,” Forshtay says. “That was one of the most spiritually refining moments of my young adult life.”

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From that moment on, Forshtay started pursuing funding options. Around that time, he discovered what he refers to as the most under-celebrated holiday in the world - National Doughnut Day. For Forshtay, a self-proclaimed doughnut aficionado who has visited doughnut shops across the nation, this was a wonderful way to unite his love of fried pastries with his love of hanging out with friends and family.

After eight years of trying and failing, Forshtay broached the subject of adoption with them. Although they were open to the idea, the venture was too expensive for them “I started making doughnuts on National to pursue. Doughnut Day and giving them away with hot coffee every first Friday in June since “That didn’t sit well with me,” Forshtay 2009,” he says. “We were just throwing a says. “As a man of faith, for 25 years I’ve party.” been reading, praying and focusing on understanding the heart of God,” he says. “I It was only a matter of time before Forshtay thought, ‘If money is the only thing keeping connected his doughnut tradition with his you from a growing family, shame on us.’” passion for helping his friends.

“It was like a light went off,” he says. “I realized we have a party and we have people coming. What if we used this doughnutinfused holiday as a fundraiser for Kelly and Heidi?” Two months before National Doughnut Day in 2014, he approached them about sponsoring their adoption. “Heidi looked up at me with the biggest tears in her eyes and she said, ‘Tobe, last night we were praying through this and

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we just didn’t know what to do, so we said, Lord, if you’re going to provide for us, will you show us the pathway you’re designing to help us adopt?’” Forshtay says. That National Doughnut Day was one of the best ones yet for Forshtay and his group of friends, family and business associates

who came together to help with the event. Throughout that summer, they hosted a few other events and raised around $10,000. Through those efforts, Kelly and Heidi were able to adopt their son in October of 2015. After that, Forshtay felt a burden to help more families. The next year they repeated

the fundraiser for another family. In 2015 they started a 501(c)(3) organization, Raise the Dough, Inc. Since then they have helped 45 couples across the country and are currently committed to supporting five others, with many more on a waiting list. Thanks to how much Raise the Dough

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has grown, Forshtay no longer makes the doughnuts himself. Instead, local doughnut shops provide the necessary treats to make the event possible. It has also grown to become a family-centric event with facepainting, cornhole and other activities, and has become a summer tradition for many

people around Kosciusko County. This year Forshtay and the rest of the volunteers with Raise the Dough are ready to go at it again, to raise even more money for couples in need on Friday, June 3. Keep an eye on their website, raisethedough.

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org, and on social media, for information on location and activities as the date approaches. To donate or volunteer, visit the official website. Anyone who knows of a couple wanting to adopt can reach out to info@raisethedough.org.

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SPREADING SUCCESS

BEECH ROAD SEED & FERTILIZER FOCUSES ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

elvin Helmuth, owner of Beech Road Seed & Fertilizer in Nappanee, says he is able to get a steady array of customers by offering a wide selection.

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“We sell a lot of seeds, including alfalfa and different grass seeds among many others,” Helmuth says. “We also sell different small grains, corn and beans. I have had some very nice customers tell me they like the seed and fertilizer we sell. They tell us they like the high-quality merchandise, which is true. We focus on great, quality seed. I’m glad we can help our customers grow their businesses.”

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The business also garners regular customers with the mixes they offer. “We get customers who want to buy pasture mixes for covered crops, as well as smaller grains,” Helmuth says. “They are looking for seeds that will help their crops.” Helmuth notes that the fertilizers offered at his business are also popular. “We sell high-quality fertilizer and custom blends,” he says. “I also have inoculates for preservatives for the seeds. I get some good customers who come in for those items. We also have Dr. Paul products, which are popular.” Helmuth believes his customers have made the shop a great success. “The best part of owning the business is interacting with the customers,” he says. “I like being able to find solutions to their

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seed and fertilizer problems for their farm operations. We have loyal customers and great repeat business. I offer the highest quality so they will come back. I also want to make sure we can answer any questions they may have.” A focus on the highest grade of seeds, and offering intelligent solutions to seed and fertilizer problems, has helped Helmuth’s business grow.

“We really focus on our customers’ questions,” Helmuth says. “We want to make sure we provide the highest-quality seed and fertilizer possible.”

“We really listen to our customers and are very knowledgeable about what would work best for them. We want them to come back and know they can rely on us.”

Employees at Beech Road Seed & Fertilizer are also able to help customers take on any seed or fertilizer issue they have.

Helmuth says the shop also has high-quality equipment.

“We really find out what the problem is and give high-quality answers,” Helmuth says.

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“We have fertilizer spreader and a 10’ seeder,” he says. “Our customers have told us they can rely on our equipment

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for their seed and fertilizer needs. We have equipment that helps farmers and homeowners get their work done. We want to make sure our quality equipment is the best it can be.” Helmuth thinks the business will continue to grow as the years go by. “I think we will be around for a quite a while,” he says. “This is an area that is continually growing.” Helmuth says he enjoys how friendly the people in Nappanee and surrounding areas are. “I’ve lived in the area all my life,” he says. “It’s a beautiful area and the people here are so nice.” For more information on Beech Road Seed & Fertilizer, located at 276 Beech Road in Nappanee, call 574-773-7717.

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Valentine Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

CREATIVE CORNER

Writer / Bella

Cook Time: 8 Minutes Total Time: 18 Minutes Servings: 20

• • • • • •

1 Box vanilla cake mix (I used Betty Crocker) 1/3 Cup vegetable oil 2 Eggs Food coloring (gel preferred) 2 Cups icing sugar for rolling and dusting 1 Pinch large, heart-shaped sprinkles

Instructions • Preheat oven to 350° F. • In the mixer bowl, cream together cake mix, food coloring, oil, and eggs. • Chill the dough for 15 minutes. • Roll a tablespoon of dough into a ball and then roll in icing sugar. • Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and press a large heart sprinkle in the middle. • Place baking sheet and cookies in the fridge to chill for 15 minutes. • Bake for 6 to 8 minutes. • Let cool on pan and then remove to cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

Gel food coloring is preferred in this recipe as it will create the vibrant color.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2022 / TownePost.com / 39

ARTISTIC VISION

THE TRUE ART COMPANY INSPIRES ONE MURAL AT A TIME Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

It doesn’t take turning on the news to see that the world has real challenges. The evidence is all around us. It’s on social media, in texts from family and friends, and in the communities that we hold near and dear. For Brandon Eads, this became part of his inspiration for founding The TRUE Art Company. “I wanted to create a nonprofit that was engaged at focusing on multiple destructive points in society,” he explains. “I was inspired through my children and really just

trying to help others.”

The team works to fulfill their mission in several ways. One of the primary ways is by Eads, a Kosciusko County native, moved their Mural Consciousness program. Small back to Warsaw from California in January businesses will pay Eads to put a sprayof 2021 and established The TRUE Art painted mural on the side of their building. Company as a way to benefit his community However, every year, Eads gifts four free permanent murals to long-standing area by bringing it together through beauty and small businesses. Sometimes, as with the creativity. “Mail Pouch” mural in Rochester, the design already exists and just needs a fresh coat of “It stands for Transform, Revitalize, Uplift paint. Eads creates others from scratch, like and Empower,” he says. “We’re trying to the rose-themed mural on the Home Sweet change the definition of art from a picture on the wall to a look in the mirror. We really Home building in Warsaw. A permanent know the power that mural art brings to mural takes about four to six weeks to communities, whether they’re driving by it complete, depending on weather. or taking a selfie in front of it.”

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with the client’s wishes. “We do the research on the event - what kind of event it is,” Eads says. “I go to the owner and say, ‘What do you want to see in the mural?’ To a lot of them I’ll say, ‘Give me a list of five things you like, three colors and a message you want it to convey.’” Depending on the client’s wishes, he may paint the wall himself while onlookers watch. “It’s a really cool thing for people to be able to sit and watch you paint, to watch something come together from nothing,” he says. Another way that Eads shares his work is through Community Connections events. Local outdoor event planners hire him to bring a portable, 32’x13’ mural to events, whether it’s a private birthday party or a public event like Warsaw’s First Fridays. When Eads is hired, he tries to coordinate

The other option involves setting up a portable wall as a hands-on mega activity for anyone passing by. At these events, Eads outlines the design on the wall so that it resembles a coloring page. After that, he separates the wall into a grid so participants can only draw one square.

Children especially enjoy this option, even the reserved ones. “It’s an amazing thing to watch a kid step out of their comfort zone to try something new,” Eads says. “That’s like with the process of

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life. We have to step out of our comfort zone community for ourselves.” to create anything that is true and will last. Once they get going, they want to paint the Eads has watched communities come whole thing themselves.” together in unity over murals, both on a side of a building and at a local festival. Either way, the point is that people of all ages can enjoy the creative process together. “It’s nice to bring this medium of spray paint to generations that don’t know about art “The process is what we’re wanting to give with spray paint, other than what they see people,” Eads explains. “It’s not really the on the side of a train car,” he explains. “It’s a end product, it’s the process. That’s what fun thing for me, and it’s an amazing thing we want to show society. That’s the most to see people’s responses and what they feel important part. We’re trying to earn a better when things come together like that.”

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The TRUE Art Company is gearing up for another great season of bringing spectacular mural painting to communities near you. To find out which event they will go to next, follow them at facebook.com/ TheTRUEartcompany. To hire Eads to paint a mural on your wall or to volunteer, contact him at brandoneads@thetrueartcompany. com, or call him at 574-201-1549. Visit thetrueartcompany.com for more information.

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DENTAL SOLUTIONS WARSAW PRACTICE PUTS A FOCUS ON QUALITY DENTISTRY - AND GIVING BACK Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Dental Solutions is participating. For several years Dr. William Stofer and his team have taken part in Give Kids a Smile, a national program sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA). On February 4, children who are identified as having dental concerns yet don’t have the means for treatment can be seen by a dentist who program. Dentists are assigned a school has signed up to take part in the initiative. in the area and with the assistance of school nurses, they do a quick screening of the students. Sometimes there can Soon after Stofer acquired his dental be a language barrier to deal with, but practice in 2000, he enrolled in the

since Stofer speaks Spanish that concern is diminished. Forms are filled out for children who meet the criteria for Give Kids a Smile.

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“We have fabulous school nurses in this community,” says Jaime Keaffaber, office manager. “They do their best to complete the paperwork and get the kids over here. Then Dr. Stofer does as much as he can for those children that are identified.” Dental Solutions provides general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry for all ages. The entire family can receive regular six-month teeth cleanings and checkups, along with teeth whitening and more. Stofer also offers wisdom teeth extractions, Invisalign and dental implant surgery. To help patients feel comfortable during a procedure, nitrous oxide sedation, oral conscious sedation and intravenous sedation are offered. Children ages 5 and up can have cavities filled, and if need be, they can be referred to a pediatric dentist. Stofer grew up in the Warsaw area. Although he was away for a time to earn his degrees, he knew he always wanted

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to return and serve the community. During his college years at Hillsdale College in Michigan, Stofer was a fouryear member of the football team, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry as well as minors in Spanish and art. He went on to attend the Indiana University School of Dentistry and received his doctor of dental surgery degree in 1998. During his time there he was recognized for clinical achievement. His commitment to giving back is

evident by the fact that Dental Solutions gives mouth guards to students who play sports at no cost. “It never was a question that I would come back to Warsaw,” Stofer says. “I wanted to come back home and help the people who helped me grow into a professional. I had a neighbor and another man I worked for who were both dentists. I really enjoyed their personalities and stories. Those guys

were always willing to give me advice and help when I needed it. They both were very active in their community, and generally great guys and role models.” Stofer and his wife Jenny have two sons, Harrison and Jacob. The family enjoys sports and being part of the community. Stofer is active in the Rotary Club and

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Shrine Club. Readers of the Warsaw Times-Union enjoy his dental column, “Ask Dr. Bill.” A lifelong learner, he is a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Kosciusko County Dental Society, Indiana Dental Association, and Chicago Dental Society. “I enjoy helping out people, improving their smile, relieving pain and helping them enjoy and chew their food better,” he says. “I enjoy doing a variety of procedures in dentistry. The Give Kids a Smile program is a very rewarding way to help kids get the dental care they need without a government program putting limits and restrictions on the kind and quality of care we provide.” Dental Solutions is located at 3505 North State Road 15, Suite A in Warsaw. For more info, call 574-269-1199 or visit dentalsolutions.net.

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says. “Horse owners have been relying on us to help them out for a long time. We also do a lot of retail distribution of pelleted animal food, and we retail vitamins and minerals for horses. We also sell CBD horse pellets. I think branching out into other areas of retail business has really helped us expand.” Schlabach estimates that he started the business about 18 years ago. “I turned it into a corporation about 13 years ago,” he says. “It was my very steady base of regular customers that helped me really get

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the business going in the right direction. They have been absolutely wonderful to me over the years, and have helped me grow this business. I can’t say enough nice things about them.” Schlabach first became interested in working with horses when he was young. “I grew up on a dairy farm and we worked with a lot of horses on the farm,” he says. “I worked with Belgian horses and enjoyed it. Over the years I decided to pursue working with horses as a way to

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make more money.” Schlabach did some heavy research and found some fields of study that piqued his interests. He decided it was a business worth pursuing if he worked hard. “I started taking some classes on the insemination of horses, and then later took some classes on embryo transfers on the mares,” he says. “I thought this was a great way to make a living, and also be able to do work that I really enjoy. I’ve held several seminars here at Romp-N-Play on the work we do here.” Schlabach and his wife Anita have also welcomed Jubilee Regional Morgan Horse Show exhibitors to meet the horses they will work with. The Jubilee show in Springfield, Illinois, is a place for horse breeders, trainers, owners, riders and enthusiasts to celebrate their love for Morgan horses. Schlabach loves the grounds where he operates his business. “I bought this property about eight years ago,” he says. “I really like it here. I love this area. It’s so beautiful. I grew up here. I also previously lived in Middlebury, which is also great. There are

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wonderful people in this area and it’s a great place to have a family.”

Schlabach notes that his clients are happy to see his business grow.

Schlabach says his plan is to keep his steady customers happy while also growing the business.

“My number-one goals are customer satisfaction and offering highquality products,” he says. “We also try to maintain and keep our horses in great condition.”

“I love my regular repeat clients every year,” he says. “I think the retail sale of horse vitamins, minerals and our horse equipment is an area to continue expanding and attract more customers.”

For more information on Romp-N-Play Stables, located at 11615 West 300 South in Shipshewana, call 260-593-0306.

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Eat Up

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ohn Perkins, owner of The Diner in Warsaw, loved working as an employee at the eatery’s location so much that he decided to take over the business. “I took over for two of the previous owners and loved the environment,” John says. “I worked in the building for almost 17 years total. I often imagined owning it myself over the years. I love the customers and the relationships I have gained.” John pursued his dream and officially opened The Diner on October 11, 2021. He has already garnered a large following of very loyal customers. John’s wife Shauna says the building was constructed in approximately 1900.

Buzz on Buffalo, and now The Diner.”

“There has been a restaurant in this building since at least the late 1940s,” Shauna says. “It started as the Humpty Dumpty, and has since been Dig’s Diner, B-Mac’s on Buffalo, The

Shauna notes that Warsaw residents have been wonderful about frequently eating at the restaurant. They have told their family and friends about the food served daily.

“The support the community has shown has been amazing,” Shauna says. “We are in awe of all the love and support we have received. The community we serve is the best.” Shauna adds that the tasty food specialities on

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the menu have also kept The Diner full. “John makes a great burger, and his breakfasts are the best but the Hillbilly Breakfast seems to be a favorite,” Shauna says. “Some of the other customer favorites are the burgers, and the tenderloins are popular.”

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Shauna says other popular breakfast items include breakfast sandwiches, eggs, omelettes, French toast, oatmeal, pancakes, biscuits, bacon, smoked sausage and many other items. The burgers include cheeseburgers, breaded cheeseburgers, bacon cheeseburgers, double cheeseburgers, and mushroom and Swiss cheeseburgers. Shauna says the sandwich selection includes chicken, chicken salad, grilled cheese, ham and cheese, and the Reuben. Customers can also get shrimp and chicken tenders. John’s daily specials have also been a big hit. They include lasagna, sloppy joes, beef Manhattans, meatloaf with scalloped potatoes and green beans, fish, and turkey and noodles. Shauna has her own personal favorite menu item. “The garlic cheese curds are amazing,” Shauna says. “They are a must-try.” Early risers have enjoyed the hours of operation. It is open early to serve hungry customers. “We are open from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. on

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Mondays through Fridays,” Shauna says. “We are open from 5 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, and closed on Sunday.” John and Shauna have enjoyed getting to know the customers, and having many of them become regulars. “We are beyond blessed by the outpouring of support from our community,” Shauna says. “John and I began dating here and we have been married 18 years now.” John and Shauna plan to be in Warsaw for many years. “We hope to be here a long time to come, and maybe one of our four children will follow,” John says. “We look forward to serving the community we love for years to come.” For more information on The Diner, located at 114 North Buffalo Street in Warsaw, call 574-306-2083.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN FEBRUARY AT THE LAKES EAST ELKHART COUNTY

KO S C I U S KO C O U N T Y

Tractors, parts, vehicles, trucks, spreaders, grain carts, wagons, and more. 8:30am http://polkauction.com/auction/late-model-ag-construction-auctionring-1

Talented artists are coming to share their time & creativity. https://www.swchamber.com/community-events

LATE MODEL AG & CONSTRUCTION AUCTION, POLK AUCTION, NEW PARIS

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ICE SKATING AT NIBCO WATER & ICE PARK, DOWNTOWN ELKHART

Friday, Saturday & Sunday. No reservations or buying tickets in advance. First come, first served admission at $5 per person. Skate rental free. https://elkhartindiana.org/government/parks

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NUNSENSE THE MUSICAL, GOSHEN THEATRE, GOSHEN

The Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, Has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show. https://www.premierarts.org/2022-season

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WINTER WONDERLAND ICE SCULPTURES, DOWNTOWN SYRACUSE

LEADHERSHIP, A PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S LUNCHEON, THE OWL’S NEST, NORTH WEBSTER Keynote Speaker: Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, $35 per person https://nwtt-chamber.square.site/events

WINE ABOUT THE WINTER, VILLAGE AT WINONA, WINONA LAKE

Join us for an afternoon and evening of wine tasting in The Village. Tickets and check-in will be available only the day of at Port Winona. The event is from 2-6pm. Limit 1 free glass per person. Must be 21 or older with valid ID. https://villageatwinona.com/events/wine-about-the-winter

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Come enjoy craft beer and listen to live music with local, regional and national talent every Wednesday. https://goshenbrewing.com/events

MICHIANA MASTER GARDENERS GARDEN EXPO, NORTHERN INDIANA EVENT CENTER, ELKHART

Come enjoy craft beer and listen to live music with local, regional and national talent every Wednesday. https://goshenbrewing.com/events

Take advantage of sales, giveaways, drawings, and deep discounts with early morning shopping in their jammies. Most stores open doors at 6 a.m. and earlier. https://visitshipshewanain.com/event/89/pajama-day-sales

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WEEKLY MISC. & ANTIQUE AUCTION, SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET, SHIPSHEWANA

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UPCOMING EVENTS FEB 1, 2022

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

FEB 4, 2022 – FEB 5, 2022 GRAZING CONFERENCE

FEB 4, 2022 – FEB 5, 2022 MOTOCROSS

FEB 11, 2022 – FEB 12, 2022 HOME AND YARD SHOW

FEB 17, 2022 – FEB 19, 2022

THE MIDWEST SPORTSMEN CLASSIC

FEB 18, 2022

WWW.MICHIANAEVENTS.COM

LEGENDS DEBATE WITH DON HIGGINS AND TONY LAPRATT

260-768-3310

BENEFIT STALLION PRESENTATION

FEB 25, 2022

455 E FARVER STREET

FEB 26, 2022

CONTRACTOR’S SALE

FEB 26, 2022

SHIPSHEWANA, IN 46565

MICHIANA RV AUCTION

MAR 3, 2022 – MAR 5, 2022

MICHIANA CAMPING & RV SHOW

MAR 4, 2022

NORTH AMERICAN BUGGY PONY SALE

MAR 18, 2022 – MAR 19, 2022 NTPA SPRING NATIONALS

MAR 18, 2022 – MAR 19, 2022 MICHIANA FARM SHOW

TownePost.com / FEBRUARY 2022 / THE LAKES / 63

Beautifu y built, Wonderfully Made.

3070 W 350 S • Topeka, IN 46571 • (260) 463 - 4026 64 / THE LAKES / FEBRUARY 2022 / TownePost.com