The Lakes of Kosciusko September 2021

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

SEPTEMBER 2021

MAGAZINE

Welcome to the MEC!

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BEYOND WEDGWOOD BLUE

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A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

IN THIS ISSUE For advertising information, contact: PUBLISHERS JOHN & MANDI LEWANDOWSKI john@townepost.com mandi@townepost.com 574.249.9217 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER TINA KEAFFABER tina@townepost.com 574.371.7482

SEPTEMBER 2021

6

LAKESIDE CHEVROLET CONTINUES EXPANSION IN WARSAW & BEYOND

11

BEYOND WEDGWOOD BLUE

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

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30 at the Havilah Beardsley House

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PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ROBERT TURK rob@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

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

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NEW QB IN TOWN

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Getting to Know Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Carson Wentz

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WELCOME TO THE MEC!

Michiana Event Center Has Become an Entertainment Fixture

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LAKES

KEY CONTRIBUTORS ABIGAIL HAKE / AMY LANT-WENGER / ANGELA CORNELL / JUBILEE EDGELL KARI LIPSCOMB / LOIS TOMASZEWSKI / MATT KEATING / SETH JOHNSON

LAKESIDE CHEVROLET CONTINUES EXPANSION IN WARSAW & BEYOND Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

6 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

here is one very apparent way to administration and staff. notice the evolution of Lakeside Lakeside Chevy has Chevrolet before ever even been situated along the entering the building.

State Road 15 corridor since 1999 and offers Turning into the parking lot of the dealership, located on State Road 15 on the vehicles in both new and northern edge of Warsaw, the striking façade pre-owned condition.

It also has a body shop of the structure meets with the carefully and a full-service team placed array of orange hazard cones and of diligently trained patches of broken earth. Construction is clearly underway, which seems only fitting mechanics ready to take on anything from basic for a business that is striving to become, as owner Tom Schilling puts it, “operation oil changes to more complicated automotive efficient and customer friendly.” needs.

Schilling has been at the helm of the Andy Duran, general manager, sat down longtime local enterprise since the with Schilling to marvel over the most late 1980s, when he purchased the recent spell of sales, when customer business. Warsaw has been a host city confidence was so robust, it allowed for Chevrolet auto sales over the course Lakeside Chevy to claim the title of being of many years, but at no other time has the business experienced a more lengthy, the fastest-growing retailer in the entire state of Indiana. or more distinguished tenure, than that which has been achieved by the current

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So what are some of the amenities that have proven so enticing to their loyal customers?

“Every qualifying vehicle that we sell has a forever, bumper to bumper Powertrain warranty,” Schilling says.

Additionally, buyers are presented with

the option to purchase a lifetime service warranty, which would cover damages that would occur as a result of accidents or similar extenuating circumstances.

With a somewhat volatile business climate over the past year among the spectre of an ominous worldwide pandemic, the men both share a positive attitude about seeing buying trends generally unwavering. They did, however, notice that most of the cars that were moving off the lot were of the pre-owned category.

“Our ratio was something like five to one, used over new,” Duran says.

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Meanwhile, he credits a skilled staff for keeping the momentum moving on an upward slope.

“We were making good sales in 2020,” he adds. “They brought a lot of talent to the table, and just in the past four, five months, we’ve more than doubled our sales. We usually have maybe 10 cars in inventory at any one time.”

Lakeside Chevy has recently added its first vehicle that is quite experimental for this region, in that it is 100% electric, the Chevy Bolt. Admittedly, Schilling says, “It’s more of a car for an urban setting,” where charging stations are more prominently available. But he hopes to pique an interest in prospective drivers.

“This is more truck country, more SUVs,” Duran adds.

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Schilling and Duran also talked about finessing what will soon be completed to streamline the auto buying and servicing experience even more. An app is being developed, which will allow patrons to view the inventory, schedule service calls, make maintenance inquiries and take advantage of other features.

The winning streak for Lakeside Chevy extends beyond the Warsaw area as well.

Schilling was able to acquire a second location in Huntington, and the newly rebranded enterprise was launched on June 14. Another goal for both businesses

is to continue the recruitment of staff members.

Opportunities are available in several avenues of the business, with training provided for those willing to learn. The company also offers 401K and a benefits package which includes insurance coverage.

For now, Lakeside Chevy is more than satisfied with its success, but there is always room for exploration and expansion.

“Everything we’re doing, it means we’re growing,” Schilling says. “Personally and within the dealership.”

Lakeside Chevrolet is located at 427 Chevy Way, north of U.S. 30 on State Road 15, in Warsaw. For more information, call 574-306-4298 or visit them online at lakesidechevy.com.

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B E YO N D W E D G WO O D B LU E SPECIAL EXHIBIT RUNNING THROUGH SEPT. 30 AT THE HAVILAH BEARDSLEY HOUSE Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

The name Wedgwood has been associated with finer things in life for centuries. The iconic blue stoneware emblazoned with the white porcelain cameos is one of the most recognizable of Josiah Wedgwood’s creations, but the scope of work created over the centuries at the factory he established is diverse in both materials and design.

Thanks to the efforts of the staff at the Ruthmere Museums, the beauty and artistry originated

by Josiah Wedgwood in the mid-1700s and continuing to today is showcased in a one-of-akind exhibit at the Havilah Beardsley House in Elkhart.

There are common links between Wedgwood (1730 – 1795) and Beardsley, says Curator

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Jennifer Johns, which makes the Havilah Beardsley house the ideal venue for the Beyond Wedgwood Blue exhibit.

“They were both visionaries and followed through to make things happen,” Johns says. “Josiah was very focused with his trade and being able to expand the business worldwide was important to him. Whereas Havilah used his wealth to acquire and develop property in an area that wasn’t heavily settled yet. Work ethics for both men was strong.”

Beyond Wedgwood Blue opened in July and continues through Sept. 30. More than a dozen display cases are used to guide guests through Wedgwood’s legacy, from the Jasperware to the lusterware adorned with fairytale characters, dragons and hummingbirds. The exhibit encompasses Wedgwood’s early work as well as more modern pieces that are still made to the rigorous standards set by the company’s founder.

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“Wedgwood was a remarkable person,” says Andrea Barbour, who researched and compiled the exhibit narrative. “It took him over 5,000 experiments to develop Jasperware, and all of that science was entirely self-taught.”

Wedgwood was taken out of school as a young child to work in pottery factories.

Despite the lack of formal education, he excelled at his trade, earning a reputation as a precise craftsman and an inventor. One of his inventions, the pyrometer is still used today.

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“On top of it all, he was an advocate for social change, promoting the anti-slavery movement and backing America during the Revolutionary War,” Barbour explains.

“It’s astounding to me how one person can do so much in such a short lifetime.”

The exhibit is a first for the Ruthmere museums, which are comprised of the 1874-renovated Italianate house of the founder of Elkhart, Dr. Havilah Beardsley and the 1908 house of A.R and Elizabeth Beardsley, designed in the Beaux Arts style.

“Over the past 40-plus years Ruthmere has hosted a number of smaller traveling exhibits and even developed a few in-house ‘one-room’ special exhibits in the past, but nothing close to the scale and complexity of Beyond Wedgwood Blue,” says executive director Bill Firstenberger. “Our goal is to develop a new in-house major special exhibition every two years and to bring in a significant national traveling exhibition during the years in between.”

The exhibit used pieces that were already in the Ruthmere collection. Added to these were pieces borrowed from museums,

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including The Birmingham (Alabama) Museum of Art and the Art Fund, Inc., the Minnetrista in Muncie and The History Museum in South Bend, Indiana.

To complete the exhibit, the Ruthmere Foundation’s Collection Committee also purchased several pieces which will be auctioned off in November.

Firstenberger explains that purchasing items for a temporary exhibit and then selling the items after the exhibit closes is a way for visitors to the exhibition to “take home a piece of Beyond Wedgwood Blue for themselves.” The proceeds from these “Special Temporary Collection” pieces will go back into the budget for the next exhibit in about two years.

Beyond Wedgwood Blue is the type of exhibit that appeals to fine art collectors and the newcomers, Barbour says.

“Having gone from a person who had | never even heard of Wedgwood, I’ve come a long way – I even collect Wedgwood myself, now, and have a small collection of

Jasperware trinket boxes in five different colors and shapes so far,” she says. “It’s kind of powerful, in a way. Once you find a relatively cheap piece, it’s hard to turn it down.”

Beyond Wedgwood Blue at the Havilah Beardsley House is open for tours on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. It is also open on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The house museum is located at 102 W. Beardsley Ave, Elkhart. For more information, visit ruthmere.org.

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NEW QB IN TOWN

GETTING TO KNOW INDIANAPOLIS COLTS QUARTERBACK CARSON WENTZ Writer / Seth Johnson Photography Provided by the Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Carson Wentz has heard the rumors and can confirm - he and Prince Harry are two different people despite their similar looks.

“We’re not the same person,” Wentz says with a laugh. “I hate to break it to some people, but nope.”

Traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Indianapolis Colts in March of 2021, Wentz follows in the footsteps of the now-retired Phillip Rivers, who took the Colts to the playoffs in his lone year

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 17

with the team. Drafted at number two

by Philadelphia in the 2016 NFL Draft, Wentz won a Super Bowl with the Eagles in 2017, where he first played under current Colts Head Coach Frank Reich, who served as Philadelphia’s offensive coordinator.

Although born in Raleigh, North

loved working together with him as my offensive coordinator,” Wentz says. “We just really got along well off the field and really connected on a deeper level spiritually. I just thought we had a really good thing in Philly working together, so I think we were both mutually excited to get back and work together again.”

While Carson, his wife Madison, and their 1-year-old daughter Hadley have been busy settling in, the Indianapolis community has made sure to welcome them with open arms.

Carolina, Wentz spent most of his upbringing in North Dakota - a state he still has many ties to today.

“Both of my parents are there, and I have a bunch of friends and stuff back there,” Wentz says. “I grew up there, went to high school there and went to college there.

North Dakota is definitely home. I love

that place and love those people back there.”

While Indianapolis may be completely new terrain for him and his family, Wentz at least has a familiar face here in town with Reich.

“I loved playing for him as my coach and

“The way we’ve been welcomed and embraced has just been really cool, both football-wise from the organization but also in the community,” Wentz says. “It just seems like such a family-friendly environment. Everyone’s rooting for you, pulling for you and wants you to succeed.”

When he’s not out on the gridiron, Wentz also stays busy with a nonprofit he

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started called the Audience of One (AO1) Foundation. A devout Christian, Wentz has tried to use his platform for good since entering the NFL. “When I was a rookie, I knew that my purpose was so much bigger than throwing touchdowns on Sunday,” he says. “Coming to my faith when I was in college, I knew there was a platform that was different. Lord knows how long I’ll have that platform, so as a rookie I said, ‘Let’s start the foundation. I don’t know how many years I’ll be in this position to have a voice, have eyes on me and make a difference, so while we’ve got it, let’s make the most of it.’”

The AO1 Foundation consists of three separate ministries according to Wentz.

The first of these is called Thy Kingdom Crumb.

“That goes around and gives out free food to anybody and everybody, and also talks with people on the streets, shares the gospel and prays with people,” Wentz says of Thy Kingdom Crumb. “Anybody and everybody is welcome. We look forward to that continuing in Philly, but potentially seeing how we can get involved in a similar fashion out here in the Indianapolis area.”

The AO1 Foundation also facilitates an Outdoor Ministry, which aims to serve children with life-threatening illnesses or other life-altering medical situations in order to foster a passion for outdoor activities and bring people closer to God through discipleship. Last but not least, the AO1 Foundation is involved in a sports complex in the country of Haiti.

“It’s just been really cool to see God working through it and for us to be obedient to where he calls us to go,” says Wentz of the AO1 Foundation and its three ministries.

“It’s been fun to really see lives being impacted and changed, not only on this earth but also for eternity, and that’s really where the greatest reward has been.”

Currently living on Indy’s northside, Wentz says he and his family have already grown to love Indianapolis.

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 19

“We love it out here,” he says. “It’s got that small-town feel, but it’s definitely a bigger city that has everything you need from restaurants to family activities.

There are so many things to do. I think the culture around here and the community atmosphere really fits me and my family perfectly, and we’re excited about it.”

As for his inner outdoorsman, Wentz says he looks forward to exploring all of the nature Indiana has to offer as well.

“The hunting, fishing and everything around in the countryside out here seems really exciting for me to dabble with, get out there and enjoy,” Wentz says.

The Indianapolis Colts kick off their regular season on September 12 against the Seattle Seahawks at Lucas Oil Stadium. To view the entire Colts schedule, visit Colts.com/ Schedule.

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MAPLE GLAZED APPLE BLONDIES Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 25 mins Total Time: 45 mins These chewy Maple Glazed Apple Blondies taste like sweet apple pie with a warm maple icing! This homemade apple blondie recipe is the perfect fall dessert! It’s easy, super flavorful, and always a crowd pleaser!

Servings: 9 -12 Bars, depending upon how you slice INGREDIENTS

Blondies 2 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup butter softened 1/4 cup sugar 1 cup dark brown sugar

2 large eggs 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp cinnamon Apple Filling 2 large apples chopped finely 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1 Tbsp butter 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp cinnamon Maple Glaze 2 Tbsp butter 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 and line an 11x7 pan with tin foil (or spray with pan with cooking spray).

Apple Filling: On med-low heat, cook apple filling mixture for about 3-4 minutes. Pull off heat and allow to cool.

Blondies: Cream butter until light and fluffy, about 1 minute. Add in brown sugar and granulated sugar, and mix until well combined. Add in eggs, 1 at a time,

beating well after each addition. Add in salt and vanilla extract.

Mix until combined. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and cinnamon together. Add to the wet ingredients and stir until combined. In the bottom of the pan, spread half the blondie batter evenly, using a spatula (or your hands--batter is very thick, so I prefer to spread with my hands).

Spread apple filling all over the layer. Top with remaining blondie batter and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a cake tester comes out clean.

Maple Glaze: Melt butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon over low heat.

Once melted together,pull off the heat. Sift in powdered sugar, and whisk until fully combined. Allow to cool for 8-10 minutes so the glaze can thicken.

Allow bars to cool for about 10 minutes, then pour the glaze over the bars and allow it to set.

Slice into squares and enjoy!

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Welcome to the MEC! MICHIANA EVENT CENTER HAS BECOME AN ENTERTAINMENT FIXTURE Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

All along the rolling country roads of Shipshewana, there is a certain sense of tranquility. It’s an extraordinary ambience of peace that captivates people - the kind of sensible simplicity that has made this rural community a kind of mecca for those looking to escape the chaos of a complicated world.

There is one narrow state highway that runs through the center of town, where the clip-clop sound of hooves is as easily

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discernible as the hum of vehicles. Yet before reaching the downtown sector, just to the east of State Road 5, one swift turn allows for the sight of a sprawling complex, the likes of which are currently unmatched and unrivaled in northern Indiana.

It’s known as the Michiana Event Center, or more succinctly, the MEC. Through the course of its inception in 2017 to its present state of renown, the initial premise of being built for big events and big crowds has been realized in astounding fashion.

The MEC is something of an architectural marvel by way of size, capacity and careful attention to detail, as well as touches of regional heritage. The facility is adequately equipped to serve as a venue for any type of experience, from farming expos to trade shows, from concerts to consignments,

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and from antiques to auctions. Folks can reserve a customized space for a modest gathering of 100 people, to an extravaganza of thousands.

seating arena has room for a maximum crowd of 5,500, with floor seating for concerts. The coliseum is temperature controlled and has locations at various sections for food service, with entrance points granting ease of movement for patrons.

One of the hallmarks of the MEC is the spacious, steel-framed coliseum. The

Elsewhere amidst the grounds, which encompass approximately 25 acres, there is a trade-show building and a staging barn, and the latter can be easily sectioned for stall spaces. That was one of the many goals that Chief Executive Officer Dennis Fry

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envisioned when the MEC was still in its conceptual phase.

be able to be there for different types of events.”

“It’s amazing all of the things that can happen here,” Fry says. “That’s part of the sense of accomplishment we have, to

The vastness of the various venues is made more impressive by the capability to transform into whatever caters to the

28 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

needs of those organizing and attending events. Tremendous amounts of earth can be moved and stabilized to adapt to agriculturally themed functions. Just as efficiently, the polished floors can be revealed once again for craft shows or

banquets. There is office space currently available to rent, and camping amenities as well.

and event direction, and is all too happy to enthuse over the MEC’s growth, purpose and soaring reputation.

Karen Flanhardt, who is an ebullient presence at the facility, is in charge of sales

“We’ve got a great staff here,” Flanhardt says. “It’s really a team effort. These people

are the heartbeat, the pulse of this place.

They keep things going.”

The MEC has become such a resounding success, in fact, that finding corporate and local sponsorship has been somewhat

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effortless. Coca-Cola is one of the chief sponsors, and there are a number of familiar businesses featured on the Wall of Fame that have contributed through the past four years. There have even been occasions, Flanhardt says, when product expos have made the MEC a focal point for unveiling new items and innovations.

Just over a decade ago, there was some discussion making the rounds about finding or creating a proper landmark for horse sales, auctions, and other similar types of events. Several members of the Amish community were part of those talks, and eventually word reached Fry. At the time he was involved in the field of construction and masonry, and it was only a matter of time before he was approached about lending his expertise to the venture.

The interested parties traveled to Howe, Indiana, where they toured a multipurpose complex. The parties wondered aloud about how to construct stalls to facilitate designated spots for animals. As is quite common with small-

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town life, families banded together to make that happen, and the result was 150 stalls.

“We completed the work just two days prior to the first show,” Fry says with a smile.

Bolstered by that success, the vision broadened to include an entirely new facility altogether. It was a logical next step, and an easy decision for Fry at that point.

“I decided to sell the construction part of my business and went to doing this full time,” he says.

With the help of grants, the leaders for the building endeavor secured the financing necessary to move forward, and the project began in 2016 with the foundation. By the spring of 2017, construction began in full force, and the MEC was open for business in the fall of that year.

Both Fry and Flanhardt say there was

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a subtle reticence from the business sector initially, but business leaders soon understood that being a host city for an entertainment center would boost local commerce. Now, Fry says, the businesses have a harmonious exchange of services and ideas, particularly with regard to parking. Although the MEC has space for 1,100 cars, the nearby marketplace has graciously accepted overflow traffic, and the MEC gladly reciprocates as needed.

For music and merchants, recreation and retail, and anything else in between, the MEC staff members continually strive to accommodate it all, with what Fry proudly calls a Christian attitude and family-oriented approach.

The Michiana Event Center is located at 455 East Farver Street in Shipshewana.

Photos and videos can be viewed at michianaevents.com. Dennis Fry can be reached via phone at 260-768-3305. Karen Flanhardt can assist with coordinating and planning events, and can be reached at 260-768-3306.

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FROM OUR KITCHEN TO YOURS Specializing In Spices of the most exquisite salts that we carry are Fleur de Sel and French Grey Sea Salt, also known as Sel Gris. Fleur de Sel salt, French for flower of salt, named because of the flower-like pattern in the salt crystals, is the most expensive salt that we carry. Fleur de Sel forms as a thin crust on the surface of the salt pans as it evaporates and is carefully skimmed off of the top. Fleur de Sel has been collected

Writer / Cheryl – New Kitchen Store

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and used medicinally and as a salve since ancient times. In modern days it is used as a finishing salt to flavor and garnish foods.

Sel Gris or French Gray salt comes from the same salt pans as fleur de sel but it is harvested differently. Whereas Fleur de sel is skimmed off the top of the salt pan, grey salt is allowed to settle to the bottom of the salt

If you have ever wondered about these things or asked yourself any of these questions then you need to come to New Kitchen Store.

Every Tuesday from 11:00 to 6:00 we have a Spice Specialist in the store to answer all of your spice questions.

From the exotic to the ordinary, New Kitchen Store carries more than 300 different spices and spice blends, and our Spice Specialist is knowledgeable about all of them.

We also carry a wide variety of salts. A couple 32 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

WE HAVE THE SPICES AND TOOLS TO GET THE JOB DONE

574-586-2745 | NewKitchenStore.com | 330 Liberty Street Walkerton, IN 46574 pan. The grey color comes from the minerals found in the clay lining of the bottom of the salt pans. Some of these minerals are magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, zinc, and iodine, all of which our bodies need. Because grey salt has a very complex mineral composition and coarse grain size, it can be used both as a cooking salt and a finishing salt. It is much denser than table salt making a lot more salt for its volume. It is also a moist salt and does not suck all the moisture out of food when used as a finishing salt.

Come in on Tuesdays from 11:00 to 6:00 and ask to speak with the Spice Specialist!

Have your questions answered and get more interesting information like the above, about any spice or seasoning that you can imagine.

New Kitchen Store is the largest gourmet kitchen supplies store in Michiana! Come visit us at 330 Liberty St. Walkerton.

For more information, call 574-5862745 or check out our website at NewKitchenStore.com.

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ARROW INDUSTRIAL LOCAL COMPANY IS A GO-TO FOR YOUR INDUSTRIAL SURPLUS NEEDS

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photography Provided

Traverse any thoroughfare around northern Indiana, border to border, and it will be easy to see that this Midwestern hub seems always to be in perpetual motion.

It is a leader in the field of agriculture. And it is a reputable force for the recreational vehicle industry. The region has awakened from crisis and demonstrated its resilience from economic hardship to a global pandemic.

With the guidance of a skilled workforce at the helm, there is a myriad of machinery, industrial and otherwise, that is imperative to the function of countless operations. And when a certain part falters, even if it is small enough to fit in the palm of one’s hand, the THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 37

repercussions can be crippling.

This is where the expertise of Arrow Industrial Sales can, and has been, a true source of rescue for many companies and individuals. With a readily accessible location in rural Millersburg, Indiana, the staff works diligently to ensure that customers can find what they need to preserve valuable time and energy, and to keep the systems flowing at peak efficiency.

The vast majority of the key players behind the ownership of the Millersburg facility are members of the Wingard family, all of whom are brothers, Glen (Research Manager), Daniel (sales, logistics), Chris (Manager), Wayne (sales), Earl (maintenance), and Larry (logistics) and a workforce of 26 employees. It was around 2009 that the brothers took up an interest in scouring auctions specifically targeting surplus industrial inventory. Upon realizing that

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there was a viable market for both new and reconditioned equipment, they turned that avenue into a business venture.

Arrow Industrial is experienced in spare parts removal, warehouse cleanouts, plant cleanouts, and demolition.

They have a fleet of trucks for moving equipment and a professional, licensed, and insured removal crew with more than 110 combined years of experience in the industrial field.

Arrow has a wide range of equipment including excavators, heavy haul trucks, and forklifts with up to 75,000 LB capacity. Arrow offers fair prices for the equipment they buy and can get the job done quickly.

Wayne also noted that while many area businesses were greatly impacted by the lingering effects of the coronavirus epidemic, the circumstances gave Arrow Industrial a chance to expand and build upon their customer service experiences.

With a number of businesses experiencing service interruptions and other similar issues, companies sometimes found that certain elements of their productivity were fast becoming obsolete, making repairs and replacements difficult to procure in a time of sudden change. Clients discovered that they could count on Arrow Industrial’s staff to deliver results faster, with a clear advantage on being locally based and owned. Wayne added that it is not unusual for the workers to linger beyond the normal hours of operation, awaiting shipments that needed to move expeditiously for companies.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 39

With over 43,000 SKUs Arrow Industrial sells and ships products worldwide daily via FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, as well as shipping items via truck freight or providing courier services for time-sensitive items. Arrow also sells a lot of equipment to local businesses, including pallet racking, chain hoists, conveyors and numerous other items in the industrial material handling line.

Arrow Industrial Sales has a 160,000plus square-foot distribution warehouse in the town of Millersburg, Indiana, most of it filled with inventory.

There is an extensive collection of available items that can either be purchased locally, or by visiting the company’s eBay store at ebay.com/ str/arrowindustrialsurplus. The business is located at 230 Wabash Street in Millersburg, and the phone number is 574-349-6575. They can also be reached via email at manager@ arrowindustrialsales.com.

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Sunrise Shrimp Farm Bremen Local Forays Into the Shrimp Market

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Nathan Helmuth, owner of Sunrise Shrimp Farm in Bremen, is a living example of the following adage: Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.

From a young age, Helmuth was attracted to aquatic life, and wanted to pursue a job that would allow him to work in that field.

“I’ve always been fascinated with water testing, and I’ve always wanted to grow shrimp, so I have found a job that is perfect for me,” Helmuth says. “I’ve really been enjoying what I do. It’s something that interests me, and I think there is also room for financial growth.”

Helmuth says he spent a lot of time researching and building his system for growing shrimp.

“It’s a process that has to be done just right,” he says. “It’s a biofloc technology system.”

Biofloc technology involves a process of enhancing water quality, through the addition of carbon sources contained in feed or external carbon sources. It minimizes water exchange, and water usage, in aquaculture systems by maintaining adequate water quality.

“I built a system that maintains the water quality for the shrimp,” Helmuth says. “The biofloc helps with the feed. It has to be perfect.”

Helmuth only recently started his business, and has high hopes it will take off.

“I can sell to anyone who buys shrimp,” he says. “I’m selling retail now, but I would eventually really like to sell to the wholesale market in the future. I think there is a lot of THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 41

good growth potential there. I think I can make that happen.”

Helmuth says he always dreamed of having a business of his own.

“I’ve done a lot of reading and research about the shrimp-growing field, and I really checked it out,” he says. “I thought the time was just right to get my business started. I think word will grow about my shrimp farm when people find out how good the shrimp tastes.”

Helmuth has been selling via retail to locals who have been pleased with his work.

“Customers can take the shrimp for cookouts and camping trips,” he says. “It’s really great for a family meal or a dinner.”

Helmuth adds that customers are typically pleased that the shrimp is homemade.

“The shrimp is a fresh, locally grown

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product that has absolutely no chemicals at all,” he says. “You know what you are getting, and you don’t have to worry about all of those additives, preservatives and other things which are not good for you.”

Helmuth says a lot of shrimp from Asia gets rejected from the United States Department of Agriculture.

“The shrimp at Sunrise Shrimp Farm is as fresh as you are going to get,” Helmuth says.

“I make sure of that every day.”

Helmuth has a large tank that maintains the water quality.

“My water tank holds 1,100 gallons of water and can hold 2,000 shrimp,” Helmuth says.

“It takes a lot of water and oxygen to grow the shrimp. The process makes them taste very good later on when they are ready.”

Helmuth says he loves living in Bremen.

“It’s really a great place to live,” he says. “It’s a small town where people are very friendly and know how to help each other. It’s also a very safe town.”

Helmuth notes that people in the area have responded to his business positively, and he thinks that will help him expand his business.

“If I can get people talking about the freshness, and how it is locally grown, I think I’ll be in really good shape,” he says.

“I just need to spread the word. I’m more excited each day about growing shrimp. A

lot of these other markets with shrimp are fading out. I’m hoping to be able to just keep growing and offer a great product. If I can do that, then I’m all set.”

To find out more about Sunrise Shrimp Farm, located 13091 Tyler Road in Bremen, contact Helmuth at 574-529-2413.

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DREW’S GIFT OF MUSIC LO C A L I N S T R U M E N T P R O G R A M P R OV I D E S S C H O L A R S H I P S , L E S S O N S , I N S T R U M E N T S TO S T U D E N T S Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

Extra-curricular activities are one part of school that almost every student enjoys.

Unfortunately, some children can’t participate for one reason or another.

Jacob Keen, a student at Knox High School, was one such student. As much as he wanted to join the music program, his mother couldn’t afford to buy or rent an instrument for him. The band director recognized in Keen a desire and drive to learn and wanted to help. So, Keen joined Drew’s Gift of Music Instrument Program.

“His warm laugh and smile, quick wit and drive to give of himself made him a special person. He had a way of making everyone feel important and share their talents as well,” reads his biography on their website.

Shearin was a music prodigy in his own right. While still in high school, he submitted original compositions to the Indiana Music Educators Association’s Composition Competition, winning first place in 2010 and in 2012. He had plans to pursue a musical degree and career.

Drew’s Gift of Music is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships, lesson and musical instruments of all types — wind, brass, strings, and percussion — to students. All of the instruments in the program are donated to the organization, then cleaned and repaired before placed in the hands of students.

Deb Johnson, the director, started Drew’s Gift less than a year after her son, Drew Shearin, died in a car accident at the age of 17 in 2012. It was a moment in time that changed Johnson’s life forever.

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Even though the world lost a musical genius when Shearin passed away, his love for music has been kept alive through his mother’s efforts.

Currently, students in more than 30 school systems in Indiana and Michigan use instruments from this organization.

“The band director is the one who gets the instrument request form. [Students] have to go through their school band program,” Johnson says.

Johnson processes hundreds of requests for student instruments every year. Every so often, one stands out. In 2013, Jacob Keen’s was one of them. As soon as she heard about him, she knew which trumpet to assign to him.

The horn — a Blessing Horn by brand as well as metaphorically — was a new donation that, in and of itself, represents the mission of Drew’s Gift.

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“A lady from Louisiana lost her son, Dylan, in a car accident six months after Drew died,” Johnson says. “When she found our story, she knew that she was supposed to send Dylan’s horn up to us.

That is the horn that Jacob received.”

For Keen, joining Drew’s Gift of Music was a life-changer.

“The start of my musical journey sparked my passion for music,” he says.

When he was given that first trumpet, he was in the sixth grade.

Within a few years, he grew out of the Blessings horn, at which point he was lent an intermediate horn, also through Drew’s Gift.

“At that point, he said to me, ‘Do I have to give back Dylan’s horn? I feel, when I play this horn, that I’m playing for Dylan and Drew,” Johnson recalls. “I said, ‘Not if you

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don’t want to. Keep the horn as long as you need to.’ ” Just a few years later, Drew’s Gift advanced him to a professional horn.

Last spring, Keen graduated from high school after spending seven years in Knox High School’s music program. During that time, he has not only proved his musical genius many times over, but he started to give back by helping the brass repairman with the instruments and by giving lessons to less experienced musicians through the Music Recycled Program, which Johnson hopes to expand to more schools in the near future. Thanks to two of the scholarships that Drew’s Gift offers, Keen will be going into Musical Education at Valparaiso University.

Because of the connection that Keen has with his first trumpet, he has been allowed to keep it for now.

“As I gave him his scholarships he asked, ‘Do I have to give Dylan’s horn to somebody?’” Johnson says. “I said, ‘Tell you what, you hang onto it until we find that student — and we will find them — that is ready to accept the gift of that horn. Then you and I will give it to them.”

Drew’s Gift is always looking for volunteers and instrument donations. To become a Musical Note Monthly Sponsor to enable other students to begin their musical journey, visit their website at drewsgiftofmusic.com.

Drew’s Gift of Music is located at 1019 W. Jefferson St. in Plymouth. They are open 12-5 Monday through Thursday and 10 am to 12 pm on Saturday. To read their latest updates, visit Facebook.com/ DrewsGiftOfMusic. Call the shop to set up an appointment to get your instrument repaired or to learn more about their programs at 574-936-4265.

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HITTING THE MARK R I N G E R O U T D O O R S C AT E R S TO A R C H E RY E N T H U S I A S T S Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

Leaps of faith can lead to good outcomes, although the road to get there may be challenging. That’s the story behind Ringer Outdoors in Rochester.

Jon and Tami Ringer established Ringer Outdoors on June 29, 2012. The couple and their daughter Sara, who was 10 at the time, bought a farm, built a barn and opened the

archery shop.

“It was a leap of faith, yet God had a great plan,” Tami Ringer recalls. “After the famous derecho winds of 2010 nearly destroyed our home, we decided to look at our bucket list.

Jon was the engineering director at a major hospital, and I was an owner-operator in a local salon. We loved the outdoors and were avid bowhunters. Jon’s dream was to own his own hunting property and work in the archery industry, so the storm blew us over

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to our farm so to speak.”

Jon soon retired and settled in to operating the business on a full-time basis. It was something he was drawn to, and an outlet for the couple to share their passion for the sport.

“Jon’s passion for archery was so infectious that people just came to learn from him,” Ringer says. “He got to teach, shoot, hunt and live the dream of being his own boss, working, promoting, and teaching archery and hunting skills to the next generation.

I was his right hand and he my left, and as a team we enjoyed the best adventures together.”

That formula worked well for several years until the unexpected happened. Jon Ringer passed away from a heart attack on March 8, 2019. It was then that Tami realized the couple’s dream had impacted the community in a positive way.

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“Our archery community surrounded us, and we were overwhelmed with love and support from those whose lives were touched by Ringer Outdoors,” she says.

“It was one of the largest funerals ever in Rochester. I decided to continue the business.”

With help from people who were mentored under her late husband, Tami has continued to provide the services she and Jon built together. That team includes Dustin Rosinski, who is an archery coach and works with children. Zachary Temme also worked under Jon, and is well-versed in fitting and repairing bows and all types of archery equipment. Paul Penix brings more than 40 years of experience in the archery world.

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avid archer.

Ringer Outdoors has an indoor and outdoor 3D archery range. The Ringer team has taught archery for high school summer gym programs and local 4-H groups.

Students include men, women and children as young as 5.

“Our business philosophy is we want you to shoot your bow with confidence and accuracy, so you can achieve your personal best in the field, in archery competitions and in life,” Ringer says.

The store’s winter leagues, held every weekend, are popular. The often-packed house is helpful to archers who benefit from having somewhere to shoot through the cold January and February months.

The business provides the type of service that often cannot be found in larger sporting goods stores.

“Bow shops are the only place you can go

to have your bow fitted, to be coached, and have one-on-one interaction with people who can take time to make sure your equipment is precisely tuned to you,” Ringer says. “Success in archery is more than just buying a bow and shooting. It is learning a skill that takes a lifetime yet will never be mastered, but for some is their passion.”

For the future, Ringer wants to continue sharing the legacy of her late husband.

“Jon Ringer loved Jesus, me, his family and the great outdoors,” she says. “We wanted to keep that vision alive. There are great things that happen in the woods. It calms the soul, stirs the spirit, and one can hear a still, small voice that changes a person’s life here and for eternity.”

Ringer Outdoors is located at 6400 North 325 West in Rochester. For more info, call 574-223-9000 or visit facebook.com/ RingerOutdoorsLLC.

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NAPPANEE APPLE FESTIVAL RETURNS SEPTEMBER 16-19 Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photography Provided

When autumn comes around every year, there are fewer places to catch the glorious sights and spectrums of color quite like the Midwest. And the city of Nappanee is no exception.

Last year was somewhat different, however. The leaves were blazing, the temperatures were cooling, and the crops were plentiful. Even so, there was something quite tangible that was missing.

The absence of the Nappanee Apple Festival left a palpable sense of melancholy, as the community was forced to set all of the best laid plans aside for the sake of public safety.

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9/16: 5pm–9pm, 9/17: 11am–10pm, 9/18: 10am–10pm, 9/19: 10am–6pm THE LAKES MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 53

And now, one year later, the Festival will once more reign supreme all along the corridors of downtown Nappanee. All of the music, the crafts, the food, the lively ambiance, it is most definitely welcomed back with the fanfare and jubilation it deserves.

The Nappanee Apple Festival is scheduled to take place beginning Thursday, September 16 through Sunday, September 19 in the heart of the city. The festival times are 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Thursday, 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday.

The Apple Festival first started in Nappanee in 1975, when it was merely a simple street affair that spanned a city block. One of the very earliest attractions that never fails to capture the attention, and appetites, of visitors. The former Ron’s Bakery was the site of the legendary six-foot apple pie. The

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giant confection weighs approximately 600 pounds, requires nearly 100 pounds of crust, and features 200 pounds of apple filling. The restaurant has since changed hands and is now the Mexican eatery known as El Cielito Lindo, and the new owners have remained dedicated to keeping the tradition going. Once the Festival gets underway, the pie is on full public display

before being cut into pieces and sold to a waiting and willing audience of taste testers.

Three different arenas will showcase some of the finest regional talents specializing in family-friendly entertainment. New this year will be the Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team, offering shows in succession among other local favorites, such as Granpa Crachit Kids Show and Puppets,

the NorthWood High School Vocal Department, and Silly Safaris. Music from several local bands will also provide a melodious atmosphere, with The 1985, Memphis Underground, and The Bulldogs scheduled to appear.

And not to be missed is the traditional crowning of the new Apple Blossom

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Queen. The current pageant queen is Samantha Markham, who received the honor at the 2019 Festival. The celebration of the 2021 contestants will begin at 7 p.m. at the Kountry Cabinets Entertainment Tent.

The Nappanee Apple Festival website is continually being refreshed and updated as the dates draw nearer. Folks can visit nappaneeapplefestival.org to download various forms and maps, inquire about volunteer opportunities, look up the

entertainment schedule, or view a list of frequently asked questions. The eagerly awaited return of the Festival will be the perfect setting to welcome in the very best of the fall season.

Food and craft vendors will be situated along South Main Street and a significant swath of Lincoln Street and Clark Street.

Shuttles are being provided to transport guests to various locales around Nappanee.

The youngsters and the young at heart will certainly be delighted to see the carnival rides returning, and those can be found on South Main and Lincoln streets. Patrons should plan on making a stop at the Napple Store to find the best souvenirs.

This year’s Festival will undoubtedly have an air of bittersweet, particularly with regard to the parade. It has been an honorable part of Festival protocol to select Grand Marshals to lead the caravan, typically a distinction given to an individual or family that has contributed greatly to the Nappanee community. Before the Festival Committee made the sad announcement that it would be necessary to cancel the 2020 event, husband and wife Randall “Randy” and Beth Yoder were christened as Grand Marshals. Randy, perhaps best known as the owner and founder of R. Yoder Construction, passed away on September 26 of 2020.

For this year’s parade, it was decided that Beth would carry on with the Grand Marshal duties, with her late husband being named posthumously to share the title.

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7 REASONS TO GET EXCITED FOR FOOTBALL SEASON Writer / Abigail Hake

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ootball season is right around the corner and while you may or may not be a diehard fan, lots of people are ready for the season to get started, not only because of the game but because of all that goes along with it! Many Americans would suggest that football is the best sport in the world. Here are seven reasons why fans and non-fans alike are ready for the season to start again.

1. TOGETHERNESS No matter what you think, football brings us together.

At all levels of the game, people come together to cheer or boo. You bond with those sitting next to you in the bleachers or standing next to you on the field. You root for your team and hope for a win together with all the rest of the fans around you. You watch together with your family and friends in the comfort of your own home. It’s a common bond between you and those on your favorite team.

2. RIVALRIES Don’t say you like all teams because that’s not true, and you know it. We all know there are teams that just don’t get along and don’t like each other. Like the Packers and Bears, the Cowboys and Eagles, and obviously the Colts and the Patriots. Rivalries bring out the best in athletes and encourage competition, but the most intense rivalries are amongst the National Football League teams. And a good rivalry is not only

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3. FOOD Football food is just the best. Dips, pretzels, burgers, nachos, beer. What more could you ask for? The best part of watching a game is lingering around the kitchen island or visiting the concessions during halftime at the stadium. And did you know that more food is consumed on Super Bowl Sunday than at Thanksgiving?

4. TAILGATING When you go to a game, high school, college, or NFL, you don’t show up right at gametime. Like any good fan, you arrive a little early and with a cooler! Hanging outside the venue with friends for hours before the big game is a must-have experience and can be extra special if you are visiting somewhere like Lambeau Field or Notre Dame Stadium.

No matter the weather, tailgating is all about having fun and indulging in unhealthy food, drinks and games. Oh, and you might even make friends with those on the other side!

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5. TRADITIONS Football is a tradition most enjoyed on Friday nights while growing up and Sundays with family. If you love the NFL, it’s very likely that you grew up watching with relatives who followed a favorite team or just the sport in general. I mean, what do you think of when Thanksgiving comes around? That’s right, food and football. Families across the country go out to play America’s favorite sport on the front lawns and when they are done, everyone heads back inside to watch the game. It’s almost religious.

6. FANTASY FOOTBALL The return of the NFL also means that fantasy football is upon us. Not only is it a hobby for many, it’s a multi-million dollar industry that paved the way for all other fantasy sports.

People can compete with friends by picking and following their favorite players to create their fantasy team. It requires a little savvy and strategy, but is fun to follow and also to try to one-up your friends!

7. THE SUPER BOWL Even those who don’t like football love the Super Bowl. Considered a national holiday by many, this is a spectacle enjoyed by all. The rivalries are fierce, the stadiums are packed, the half-time shows are unreal, and obviously the commercials are amazing. The Super Bowl is the culmination of the entire season and watchers everywhere stay up late and call in sick the next day just to enjoy the entire show.

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In the end, when fall rolls around, we are totally ready for Fridays to be spent at the local game, Saturdays to be taken over by the best college games, and Sundays to be taken over by pre-game shows and commentators. We all feel better when football is back in action and we can enjoy the season for all the right reasons, with family, friends and even those who are cheering for the other side.

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ROYAL LEGACY FURNITURE

LAGRANGE SHOP PUTS A PERSONAL TOUCH ON HANDCRAFTED PRODUCTS Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photography Provided

Sometimes, the rhythm of life is fueled by a need for convenience - an assurance that something will become available at a moment’s notice. It just seems easier, at times, to find something on a whim and incorporate it seamlessly into a home’s interior setting. It’s quite possible that few people will ever take the time to learn about the process of creating items that end up in a home.

There is a small family enterprise in the heart of LaGrange County that exemplifies a very different perspective on what it means to build furniture. It is all about being unique, and about taking the time to make the end product worth the wait. It is about presenting customers with a work of art that is destined to become an heirloom.

Royal Legacy Furniture, nestled in the countryside between Shipshewana and LaGrange, is owned by Leonard Helmuth, an Amish craftsman who was raised in nearby Michigan before relocating to the LaGrange area in 2007. His operation is simplistic, but his work ethic is strong. While he admits that he wasn’t particularly active in the craft until he was a young adult, TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 65

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he did exhibit a keen interest in woodworking prior to that time, and it was evident that he was skilled quite early on. His initial foray into woodworking has evolved into a business that produces custom, handcrafted wood furniture.

Helmuth first dabbled in building furniture and cabinetry in 2009,

along with “whatever came along,” he says with a grin. By 2017 he had begun operating a small storefront, which included items such as mattress sets and other types of furniture.

At that point he felt it was time to give this growing business a proper name.

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He turned to his in-laws for some advice on what he should call this new venture, and they were the ones who suggested the name Royal Legacy, for a most touching reason.

The letters “R” and “L” were integral to the business name, Helmuth explains, because they are the initials of the first names of himself

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Royal Legacy Furniture shares a kind of kinship with other furniture shops in the area, in that they often share similar design ideas when working on various items. Helmuth says it isn’t unusual for folks to reach out to him with a specific vision in mind, a dream

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260-768-4019 • 4695 N STATE RD 5, SHIPSHEWANA TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 67

piece, or a schematic for cabinetry that they entrust him to bring to reality. Most of his clients are local, he says, but there are also customers who have discovered him from beyond the region.

Helmuth is glad to welcome visitors to Royal Legacy Furniture on any day of the week, with the exception of Sunday. He says the best

way to catch up with him is to simply drop by during the afternoon, or prospective visitors can call ahead to set up an appointment.

Royal Legacy Furniture is located at 3950 West 200 North in LaGrange. The shop’s telephone number is 260-768-7510.

BUSINESS FOR SALE $155,000

Bulk Garden Seeds • Annuals Perennials • Hanging Baskets • Mums

Custom Made Quilts Fabrics, Notions, Etc. Delores Schwartz 1611 3rd. Rd Bremen, IN 46506 574-546-5747

ERNEST & SUSIE EASH • 260.499.5315 X1 0655 S 300 W • LAGRANGE, IN 46761

Located 1/2 mile south of US 20 on CR 300 W between LaGrange & Shipshewana.

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Monday - Friday 10-4 Saturday 10 - 2 Closed Wednesday

CHECK OUT OUR SELECTION HOURS: MON.-SAT., 8AM-6PM CLOSED SUNDAYS 68 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Call today to setup your free estimate!

574-584-5660 Gary & Kevin Schlabach

Chip & Glaze Floor Coatings for Concrete & Wood • Perfect for Barns, Garages, Patios, Basements, Stairwells, Offices, Laudry Rooms, & More • UV Stable, Salt & Oil Resistant, Antibacterial • 5x Stronger than Epoxy, Will Never Chip • Easy to Clean • The Floor of a Lifetime

A small sample of the colors available. Ask for more options.

JS Appliance Outlet

Quality Appliances & Bedding at Hometown Prices Hours: Tue- Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-1 Sun & Mon Closed

6, 12, 18 month financing with deffered interest

1215 W. Plymouth St. | BREMEN • 574-546-5500

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1pm to 8pm Monday through Saturday

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TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 69

BREEO Smokeless Fire Pit

Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill

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10460 W US 20 SHIPSHEWANA, IN 46565

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10945 W. 400 S. Millersburg, IN 46543

Sam & Alice Lambright 260-593-2254 Mon- Fri: 8:00-4:30 Sat: 8:00-12:00

MILLER BOAT RESTORATION Most restorations completed in less than 30 days!

Complete Restoration Including Electrical from the Pontoons Up Free Pick up and Delivery

574.501.3113 62220 CR 35 Goshen, IN 46528 70 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

5 FUN FARMS IN NORTHERN INDIANA TO VISIT THIS FALL Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

Can you capture autumn in a single memory? When I catch a whiff of apple-cinnamon spice, it takes me back to the apple orchard we went to every year. It was never quite fall until we had spent an afternoon picking apples, racing through the corn maze, and petting and feeding the goats. Then, we would go in the little country store for some apple cider and apple fritters before heading home with our apples, a pumpkin or two and a gallon of cider. A lot has changed since then, but one thing that’s the same is the allure of the apple orchard. This fall, take some time to make some memories with your family at these five farms in northern Indiana.

CALL FOR AN ESTIMATE IN MINUTES.

574.527.6424

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 71

Garwood Orchards — LaPorte

Garwood Orchards — LaPorte Not only is Garwood’s one of the oldest orchards in the state, it’s also the largest.

To go U-picking, take the horse-drawn wagon out to the orchard. And when you get back, satisfy your munchies on some American favorites —burgers, brats, hot dogs and farm-raised corn on the cob (when available) — at Garwood Grille.

Or, for a taste of the old country, stop by the Bake Shoppe and Gelato Bar for baked goods, gelato and sorbetto!

Kerchers Sunrise Orchard and Farm Market — Goshen

Garwood Orchards (garwoodapplefarm. com) is located at 5911 W. 50 S., LaPorte, IN and are open 8:30AM-6PM Daily.

They can be reached at 219-362-4385.

There is a $5/person entry fee on the weekends.

Kerchers Sunrise Orchard and Farm

Kerchers is also known for their farm market, which sells in-season produce plus every kind of fun goodie you could imagine, from cider to popcorn, from gift baskets to soy candles and so much more.

Their bakery also has many wonderful, tempting treats.

Market — Goshen This family-owned and operated orchard has been around for 97 years. Beyond apples and pumpkins, they have a corn maze and hayrides — free of charge!

Kerchers (kerchersorchard.com) is located at 19498 Co. Rd. 38, Goshen, IN and can be reached at 574-533-6311.

They are open Monday through Friday 9-5:30 and Saturday 9-3.

Alfano’s Pier and Lift LLC

Don’t stress we’re going to your house next!

New / used pier and boat lifts available

Call now!

574-526-2650

8041 E. 400 N. Leesburg, In 46538 72 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

McClure’s Orchard — Peru

McClure’s Orchard — Peru Located between Rochester and Peru, McClure’s is fantastic for a day with the family. They have an area for the kiddos complete with a playground, animal barn, horse rides (on the weekends), and a concession trailer. For U-picking, hop on the handicapped-accessible trolley for a trip into the orchard. Or if you prefer, purchase ready-picked produce in the Apple Barn. Speaking of the Apple Barn, step inside before you leave. On top of orchard-grown produce, they sell

mums, apple cider and more. In the loft is their Christmas Room, which is well worth checking out. If you don’t walk downstairs humming carols, don’t blame the staff!

If you get hungry, stop by the Café for a light meal or a delicious treat. And mom and dad, check out their award-winning adult beverages. Enjoy a glass or opt for a few samples.

McClure’s (mccluresorchard.com) is

Checkerberry RENTAL LLC

Thistleberry Farm — South Bend

Now offering telescoping pole saw rental!

located at 5054 N. US HWY 31, Peru, IN. They can be reached at 765-985-9000.

Thistleberry Farm — South Bend Imagine a farm that’s masquerading as an amusement park, and you have a good description of Thistleberry. They have a wide variety of activities, from a corn box (it’s like a massive sandbox that’s filled with corn) to a jungle gym made of tractor tires.

They also have activities your teenagers will love, like a couple of corn mazes and so much more. General admission is $8.50 a

Norine’s Herbs

Foot Reflexology / Ion Cleanse

62644 County Road ∙ 37 Goshen, IN 46528 Lyndon Yoder | 574-822-7822

• Lawn Installation Equipment • Fertilizer / Spreader • Endure Grass Seed • Concrete Cutting Saw • Drain Cleaning Hose • Large Chainsaw • BCS with Plow for Raised Garden Beds • Patio Heaters • Rent our Track drive hydraulically driven stump grinder • 32 ft enclosed trailer available

Free Shipping on orders of $125 or more

We Deliver and Call for Availability

14746 CR 34 | Goshen (574) 642-4272 ext.1 Hours: Mon-Fri 8-4 Sat 8-12

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 73

Yellow River Farms — Knox

person Monday-Friday and $12.50 on the weekends. Group discounts are available.

Thistleberry Farm (thistleberryfarm.com) is located at 61391 Mayflower Rd., South Bend. They can be reached at 574-289-0164.

Yellow River Farms — Knox This farm, known for the giant pumpkin on

top of their barn silo, is open to the public on the weekends. Check out the play area with an 80-foot slide, tube swing, straw bale maze and a kiddie tunnel. For the older members of the family, there’s a corn maze and a pumpkin cannon as well. When you’re ready to pick a pumpkin, enjoy a free ride on the horse or tractor-drawn wagon

74 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

out to the field. Before you leave, check out their gift shop, full of fall regalia and homemade goodies like jams and jellies.

Yellow River Farms (yellowriverfarms. com) is located 4 miles east of Knox on Rt. 8. They can be reached at 574-772-2581.

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TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 75

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26 Flavors Hand-Dipped • f. This advertisement was designed using the information 3 you provided.

Soft Serve Flavors • Sno-Cones • Shakes • Hot Dogs • Chili Dogs • proof carefully. We will gladly correct any errors or omissions we made.

Chicken-Ham-Turkey hanges to the design of the ad or include more information, be aware that there may be additionalWraps • Taco Salads

at in the future, please provide a rough layout of your ad when you first provide your information.)

ections & State SendFarm’s Another Proof the sooner mission is (Obviously, to help people manageyou therespond on this one, the better!)

risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected t with Corrections As Marked Date _________________________________ and realize their dreams.

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1101 S Huntington St Ste 2, ailable? You may call in your approval or changes, at 260-463-4901.

Page #TW-6.

WOLCOTTVILLE, IN 46795 m by email, you may respond by email. Please be as specific in your message as possible regarding any 260.854.3853 POchoice Boxfrom65above • Syracuse elpful if you would put your (OK to Print ... etc.) right in the SUBJECT line on the email.

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I N S E P T E M B E R AT T H E L A K E S ELKHART COUNTY 16-19 NAPPANEE APPLE FESTIVAL, NAPPANEE

Home to Indiana’s largest 7 foot baked apple pie! Family-friendly atmosphere, fun activities and shopping. Carnival rides & games, 2 stages of entertainment, food booths, contests, and delicious apple pie, cider, donuts, and more! Parade on Saturday at 10 a.m. https://www.nappaneeapplefestival.org

17 FEATHERED FRIENDS, MIDDLEBURY

Free to attend! Kids will have the option to build a platform bird feeder or mason bee house. Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation Center will be bringing a few raptors, including a bald eagle! Food will be available for purchase. 4-6 p.m. https://www.middleburythenandnow.org/events-1/feathered-friends-2

23-25 MICHIANA MENNONITE RELIEF SALE, GOSHEN A Thursday evening live performance by Ted and Company; presenting the Holy Surprises show. Friday at 5:00 p.m. Come for food and craft items for sale, browse quilts, children’s activities, and cookie walk at 5:30 p.m. Saturday live quilt auction, it’s the final day to bid on your online auction items, plus food booths, children’s activities, and more! Located at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds. http://www.mennonitesale.org

26 WAGGIN’ IN THE WOODS, ELKHART

Bring your family and furry pals to enjoy the trails at the Elkhart Environmental Center. Food trucks, family friendly activities, beer garden, vendors and more. Pooch Parade at 2 p.m. - Bring your dog for a fun walk through the Environmental Center. Costumes encouraged! Guided Nature Walks. 11-4 p.m. https://elkhartindiana.org/government/eec

1-30 BEYOND WEDGEWOOD BLUE AT RUTHMERE, ELKHART

Original Ruthmere Museum special exhibit featuring a stunning collection of Wedgwood ceramics from around the world representing a wide variety of styles, shapes, and uses. See many fine examples of Jasperware that made Wedgwood famous, but also rare pieces of black basalt statuary, drab gray stoneware, multi-color majolica, Queen-approved creamware, unglazed buff caneware, and iridescent lustreware from the famous designer Daisy MakeigJones. http://www.ruthmere.org

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

11-12 JOHN DILLINGER EVENT

Sept. 11, 2021, 9-5 and Sept. 12, 2021, 1-5. Two day event highlighting the escapades of John Dillinger. Craft show, vintage cars, food vendors, museum and walking tours. Corner of Indiana and Main Streets at the Old Jail Museum.

Sponsored by the Kosciusko Historical Society.

25 OKTOBERFEST

Day-long event of German-themed activities and kids activities, German food and Porsches’, homemade streusel-making contest and strength contest. Bring the entire family and celebrate the changing of seasons in The Village. https://villageatwinona.com/events/oktoberfest

1-30 BEYOND WEDGEWOOD BLUE AT RUTHMERE, ELKHART

Original Ruthmere Museum special exhibit featuring a stunning collection of Wedgwood ceramics from around the world representing a wide variety of styles, shapes, and uses. See many fine examples of Jasperware that made Wedgwood famous, but also rare pieces of black basalt statuary, drab gray stoneware, multi-color majolica, Queen-approved creamware, unglazed buff caneware, and iridescent lustreware from the famous designer Daisy Makeig-Jones. http://www.ruthmere.org

S H I P S H E WA N A / L A G R A N G E C O U N T Y 15 MEC FOOD TRUCK RALLY

(Every Wednesday evening thru Sept 15) Come to the MEC and enjoy some awesome food from our local food trucks! Bring your guitar and enjoy a jam session with other local pickers and singers. Don’t play an instrument? Like to sing? Come sing with the musicians! https://www.michianaevents.com/event/2021foodtruckrally2

EVERY WEDNESDAY WEEKLY MISCELLANEOUS & ANTIQUE AUCTION, SHIPSHEWANA (Every Wednesday, 9 a.m., year-round, 2021) Each Wednesday all year long, sellers from all over the United States bring in their picks and finds including furniture, primitives, art, glassware, signs, collectible vintage toys, household items and more. https://shipshewanatradingplace.com/auctions/misc-antiques

30-OCT. 2 FALL CRAFTERS FAIR, SHIPSHEWANA

AUG 28 CANAL DAYS, WINONA LAKE

Join us for a day of family-friendly activities, featuring craft and art booths, food vendors along the canal, and a variety of kid’s activities. The day culminates with a Cardboard Boat race along the canal. https://villageatwinona.com/events/canal-days

EVERY SATURDAY FARMERS MARKET, SYRACUSE

Beautiful displays of locally grown produce, flowers, baked goods and art fill the park to create a diverse and friendly community shopping experience. https://www.swchamber.com/community-events

EVERY THURSDAY LET’S MOVE

A weekly dance exercise class where we dance for fitness and fun. Class is free and open to adults of all fitness levels. 6 p.m. http://www.nweb.lib.in.us/events/calendar.html

Every Thursday night thru September 2021 Let’s Move at the North Webster Public Library, North Webster

See crafter’s demonstrate their unique skills. Buy premium, hand-made items.

Explore items from quilters, blacksmiths, painters, musicians, and much more!

Delicious food, drinks and entertainment all three days. There will be activities for kids on Saturday, October 2nd including a barrel train ride. https://www.michianaevents.com

NOBLE COUNTY 2-5 TRI-STATE BLUE GRASS FESTIVAL, KENDALLVILLE

Northern Indiana Blue Grass Association annual event. Two stages, food booths, various groups throughout the weekend. Check schedule for details. https://www.bluegrassusa.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/F21-b-w-flyer-V3.pdf

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YOUR LOCAL FULL LINE GROCERY STORE Spices • Grilling Items Backing Supplies Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Ready Made and Special Order Bakery items (574) 642-4399 doublergrocery.com 65730 State Road 13 Millersburg, IN Mon-Fri 8:00-4:30 Saturday 8:00-1:00 Closed Sunday

We Sell Oil • Antifreeze • Filters • Tires Tracks • Napa Parts Rhino Voltz batteries BR EWED WITH IMAGINATION American Fusion Menu Craft, Domestic Beer & Fine Spirits Carryout & Delivery Open Wed- Sunday

www.hoplore.com 574-453-0496 100 South Old St Rd 15, Leesburg, IN 46538 307 W Market Street, Warsaw, IN 46580

We specialize in Skid Loader & Farm Equipment Service & Repair Mon ,Tue,Thur 1pm to 6pm Wed & Fri 1pm to 3pm

(260)562-2284 x 2

4340 W 450 N Shipshewana, IN 46565

78 / THE LAKES / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Orva Eugene Miller

Timothy Schlabach

elitekitchens.tim@gmail.com | 574-825-9724 TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / THE LAKES / 79

Reliable, high-speed internet is coming soon!

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