The Lakes West Magazine October 2023

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TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

FOUNDER/CEO

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT

jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

TONI EADS

SOMEWHERE TO TURN Marshall County Neighborhood Center Lends Families a Helping Hand

SPELLBINDING STRUCTURE

SPOOKY SPECTACLE

A Glimpse Into the History of Halloween in the Lakes Area

47 EASY PUMPKIN PIE TWISTS 48

BOATLOAD OF SERVICE

Miller Boat Restoration Can Repair, Refurbish, Revamp and More 54

AUTHOR OF HIS OWN DESTINY For Local Independent Author T.M. Huber, Writing Is More Than a Career

59 WILDLIFE WONDERS Find Your Fun Fill of Nature and History at Potawatomi Wildlife Park

64 BUSINESS IS BLOOMING Aroma Acres Is Committed to the Freshest Products and Sustainable Practices

69

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LAKES IN OCTOBER

SOMEWHERE TO TURN

MARSHALL COUNTY NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER LENDS FAMILIES A HELPING HAND

Christine Garner, executive director of the Marshall County Neighborhood Center (MCNC) in, Plymouth, says the organization is a valuable place for families to turn to when they need help.

“The MCNC is a countywide nonprofit

that seeks to help families living in vulnerable situations,” Garner says. “We offer a food pantry, a clothing pantry, utility assistance, holiday assistance, oneon-one meetings, community outreaches, school supplies and community referrals.”

Garner says the food pantry helps people stretch their family food budget by

offering a wide variety of fresh, frozen or canned foods. The utility assistance program was established because many clients need assistance with their rent or utilities.

The valuable organization helps people during rough patches. “We are often someone’s first stop while looking for

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Aleshcha Dewitt - Client services, Christine Garner - Exec Director, Racheal Filley - Outreach.

assistance,” Garner says. “We seek to create a welcoming environment and a safe place for people who need a bit of a helping hand.”

Since the early 1980s, the MCNC has had a strong and positive reputation in the Marshall County community for being a place to turn to during tough times.

“The MCNC was started in 1982, and has continued to grow and evolve over the past 40 years,” Garner says. “What started as a place for extra produce and government cheese has developed into

the center we know and love today.”

Garner notes that the generosity of people in the area has kept the organization going.

“The MCNC exists because of the generosity of the Marshall County community,” Garner says. “We are funded by donations and a few smaller, specific-use grants. We have three paid staff members and an amazing team of volunteers.”

Garner adds that there are opportunities for people to get involved. “If people are looking for ways to get involved, the chances are good we can find a way to connect you,” she says.

Community members can also make donations to the center.

“People can donate money, food, or clothing and small household items,” Garner says. “People can connect as volunteers and serve in our food pantry, clothing room, cleaning crew, landscaping or holiday crew.”

Garner notes that there are additional ways to help the center.

“Groups can hold food drives,” she says. “Individuals, school groups, social groups, churches or businesses can adopt families at Christmas. Plugging into one of our annual fundraisers is another great way to get involved - our Dancing with the Stars fundraiser in February and Quack Out Hunger Duck Race in the summer. The center is truly a neighborhood venture.”

Garner says people in the community can get involved in several upcoming events. “In October there is a food drive for Thanksgiving meals,” Garner says. “In November we have Thanksgiving baskets. In December we have Christmas baskets and on February 10 we have our Dancing with the Stars fundraiser.”

Garner says she has been very busy at the organization over the years.

“I became the director in January 2018,” Garner says. “Just a few weeks later we had a countywide flood, followed by COVID in 2020. Our building then flooded in the summer of 2021. It’s been quite a few years.”

Garner has enjoyed working for the MCNC. “I love feeling like we are helping our fellow neighbors and lifting up this community,” Garner says. “One of the most special things is being able to see both the donor and the receiver. It is such a sweet experience to be the one in the middle. I guess you could say it’s the people I love.”

Garner adds that many different families are being helped in the area.

“The Neighborhood Center serves over 1,600 households in Marshall County,” Garner says. “Far too many families work hard but just can’t make ends meet. We are here to fill in that gap. No donation is too small. Together we can make a difference.”

To get involved or make a donation, contact the Marshall County Neighborhood Center, located at 402 West Garro Street in Plymouth, at 574-936-3388. Also visit helpingmcfamilies.org, and find them on Facebook.

SPELLBINDING STRUCTURE

BIRDSELL MANSION OFFERS VISITORS A BIT OF HISTORY - AND PERHAPS A BIT OF THE HAUNTED

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Photographer / Ali Schneider

Their written chronicles abound, and the landscape of social media is rife with their images. Beautiful but somewhat forlorn, palatial old homes, crown jewels of opulence from another place in history. Magnificence in architecture, and very much a source of pride for generations of families who once called them home. Sadly enough, however, many of those houses have since fallen into disrepair, weathered by circumstances and time.

The Birdsell Mansion near downtown South Bend initially seems like one such example, but visitors will likely discover that it is anything but. The exterior reveals glimpses of its former glory, and the structure was recently designated as one of the state’s 10 most endangered buildings by Indiana Landmarks. And while the mansion may look abandoned, certain folks have come away believing that the house is neither forgotten, nor uninhabited.

Just ask Corbyn Bentley. A native of Elkhart, he is rapidly ascending to national prominence with his paranormal investigative adventures. He is a social media phenom with an active podcast following, and is well-versed in topics related to the spirit world. On a recent ghost-hunting expedition that he coordinated at the Birdsell Mansion, Bentley said that the house was one of the most haunted places he’s ever witnessed.

The Birdsell Mansion was built in 1898 for Joseph Benjamin “Ben” Birdsell and his wife, Olive. Birdsell was an industrial mogul, the son of another entrepreneur who was a pioneer in agricultural machinery. The elder Birdsell, John C., had moved to South Bend from New York in 1864 to market a new innovation in the threshing and hulling of clover, considered a leading crop of that era.

With the success of the Birdsell family enterprise, Ben Birdsell wanted to create

Corbyn Bentley, meeting with fellow ghost hunters in the front parlor of the Birdsell Mansion

a luxurious living space that would rival the nearby homes of Clem Studebaker’s Tippecanoe Place and J.D. Oliver’s Copshaholm. The design, crafted by the architectural firm of Parker and Austin, features numerous marble-accented fireplaces, ornate lighting and woodwork, multiple staircases, hardwood flooring, and a third-floor ballroom, all with the intent to dazzle the highest echelon of South Bend society.

The house was last lived in by members of the Birdsell family back in 1927, and since then, there have been a handful of businesses that have converted the space into office suites. Nowadays, Bentley has special clearance to use the mansion for hosting various supernatural excursions. Taking a trip through the mansion under the veil of darkness might convince even the most hardened skeptics that although physical life forms no longer reside there, presences are very much present.

Bentley is a spirited fellow in more ways than one. His lively, humorous manner meshes well with the eerie undercurrents of the house. During a recent visit to Birdsell Mansion, Bentley spent some time in the majestic front parlor, answering questions and explaining the particulars of the tour. He employs various tools of the trade to attempt communication with spirits, such as an ultra-sensitive flashlight that flickers on command when questions are asked. Bentley also uses a spirit box, which captures radio frequencies believed to pick up sounds not distinguishable to the naked ear.

While leading groups along tours, Bentley’s steps are tentative, yet he provides a riveting narrative of the various experiences in the maze of rooms. He speaks about portals, defined as places in the mansion that are allegedly active - a vast basement library with dusty vintage volumes, and dark, dank hallways where shadows linger. A boarded-up entryway to a network of underground tunnels is supposedly also a buzzy spot.

The most ideal way to stay apprised of upcoming events at the Birdsell Mansion is to visit the home’s Facebook page, located under “Haunted Birdsell Mansion.” The page features information on future plans, photos and videos, and a messaging feature to make inquiries. To view the house in its historic South Bend neighborhood, head to 511 West Colfax Avenue.

One of the many “portals”

LIFE LESSONS

LIFEWISE ACADEMY CONTINUES TO EXTEND ITS REACH IN PULASKI COUNTY AND BEYOND

“I grew up in a family that loved Jesus and went to church,” says Sherri Huber, LifeWise Academy steering committee member. “It breaks my heart to think of kids not knowing about Jesus and the Bible.”

Huber was surprised when she heard that less than 20% of kids today attend church regularly. This was shared during an informational meeting about the national LifeWise program.

Since 1919 McKesson is Indiana’s Longest Running Family Owned Title Company.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Lois Haring, Sherri Huber, Amber Leman

“I wanted to help to spread the good news of the gospel to students in my community who have never heard about Jesus,” she says. “I want to share with kids that they are created for a purpose and how much they are loved by Jesus. Navigating this world is hard. Kids and their families need hope.”

LifeWise Academy is privately funded organization that offers parents the opportunity to sign their child up to receive a once-a-week Bible study program within the normal school day. This program is offered when students have electives or activity periods, and does not interfere with the core curriculum, according to steering committee members. It is offered offcampus, with transportation provided via a red bus.

LifeWise uses a professionally produced curriculum, has liability insurance, and provides coaches for all steps of the process. Sherri says LifeWise operates under a two-pronged commitment - to always be

Schlatter - Teacher

Jodie

gospel-centered, and strive for excellence as representative of Christ in all that it does.

“This is not a way to get kids to come to our church,” Chad Huber says.

Fellow steering committee member Gene Huber, Sherri’s husband and Chad’s brother, says the goal is to rely on biblical stories to teach values and develop good citizens.

Offering voluntary religious activities and programs during school hours is not a new concept. It has been upheld by courts. Analogous programs have been around for decades according to the steering committee members.

LifeWise programs are currently operating in numerous Indiana counties including Wells, Noble, Adams, Newton, DeKalb, Whitley, and Pulaski at the West Central School Corporation.

At West Central, 79% of elementary

students are taking part in the local LifeWise program, Sherri says. This is the third year for the LifeWise program at West Central.

“There are other communities in our area that are starting through the 10-step LifeWise launch process,” Chad says.

Steps in the process include collecting signatures to show community support, raising donations, recruiting a steering committee, preparing a presentation, getting school approval and putting together a leadership team, among others. Other steps involve working with LifeWise staff to get to the final goal of implementing the program.

During the process, local LifeWise committees seek to involve the school and work alongside administrators and teachers. This program seeks to expand children’s access to opportunities that help with character development, mental

health and academic achievement by becoming an ally to the school system. In addition to those in the local area, LifeWise is preparing to launch released-time Bible classes in more than 300 schools in 12 states for this school year. Founder and chief executive officer of LifeWise, Joel Penton, started the program in 2019 in five schools. More than 15,000 students are currently enrolled in LifeWise classes nationwide, and communities in 23 states have begun the process of starting a LifeWise program.

“This benefits our children because it brings peace into their hearts, because

they know they are here for a purpose,” Sherri says. “When they know the heart of Jesus, it changes them.”

Sherri and the other members of the steering committee believe that LifeWise will help students learn to cope with stresses in life. Religious instruction is a component of developing a wellrounded, responsible member of the community, they say.

For more information, visit lifewise.org.

RIVER WOODWORKING, LLC

KITCHEN & BATH CABINETRY

P: 260-593-3005 | F: 260-593-3007

AARONY@RIVERWOODWORKING.COM

River Woodworking is a second-generation family owned company, founded in 2000. We design and build a wide variety of full custom wood cabinetry to complement any home or office interior. Today, River Woodworking offers options from sleek, contemporary designs to classic or rustic touches. Each piece is handcrafted to perfection and is finished with a quality paint or stain of your choice. Quality construction and finishing combined with a host of extra features have placed River Woodworking at the top of its class, creating cabinetry that will endure the test of time.

Visit our showroom for a full selection of door styles, colors, countertops, hardware, and more.

1735 W 700 S | Wolcottville, IN 46795

QUALITY AND COMFORT

has, as the company logo says, been providing quality and comfort for the area since 1989.

“Heating is essential,” Matt Miller says. “When people buy from us, they know it will be a quality product.”

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Tony Straw

Many things are passed down from father to son - values, character traits, family history and sometimes even the family business. After decades of leadership under Ernie Miller, his son, Matt Miller, is the new owner of Miller Stove & Fireplace in Bremen.

For 34 years, it has been the place to go for quality fireplaces, stoves, furnaces and equipment needs for outdoor kitchens. It

Over the years the business has evolved, from first selling anthracite coal and the stoves to burn it in, to the current wide range of possibilities for customers seeking to heat their homes, or create a “cozy comfort zone” with a fireplace, as Miller says.

There are over 60 stoves and fireplaces on display, so customers can get an idea what they would like to see in their own home. The traditional wood-burning fireplace and stove is still highly popular. Other choices include gas, electric and pellet fuel systems. Whatever the choice may be, Miller says customers can expect high-efficiency units and great customer service.

822 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975

574-224-2666

The decision on what fireplace may be best for the customer has many facets. Wood-burning fireplaces provide a heat source if the power goes out. Electric and gas fireplaces require less cleaning and maintenance. Pellet-fueled fireplaces can be helpful in reducing the labor involved in cutting and storing wood.

To help in making those decisions, customers can look at the models on display, and talk with an expert to make sure their needs are met with the choice they make. The store features

MILLER STOVE & FIREPLACE HAS BEEN KEEPING FIRES BURNING FOR NEARLY 35 YEARS

models of both traditional fireplaces and contemporary styles.

When a customer decides on the type of fireplace, Miller’s trained crew handles all the work needed to get the fireplace operational. This includes design of the mantle and the fireplace surround, the installation of any gas or electric lines needed, and masonry. As Miller says, it is a one-stop shop for fireplaces and stoves.

It is also important to know what the customer needs. The fireplaces that the business creates are individualized based on customer tastes and preferences. Miller can design a fireplace from a photograph that the customer provides, and can help make sure the design fits correctly in the available space.

“When the customer comes in, I want to know what they want the fireplace to do for them,” Miller says. “We try to sell them a solution.”

That same care is given to customers who may be struggling to decide whether a wood stove would be a better option for their space. They sell wood stoves that can be used for heating a home, and wood-burning cook

stoves for kitchens. Wood-burning cook stoves do double duty as both a source of heat and a way to prepare meals.

A fireplace is a bigger project than the installation of a wood stove. It depends on the scale of the room and the individual needs of the customer.

“A fireplace changes the look of a room, but it does take up more space,” Miller says.

SPECIALIZING IN HIGH QUALITY STEEL ROOFING

In addition to quality fixtures, the company has always made customer service and satisfaction a priority. Their installers operate with the highest level of professionalism. “We tell our employees to leave the customer’s house cleaner than when we got there,” Miller says.

For him, the job is done well when he gets a positive response from the customer.

“One of the best things I like to hear is how much they are

saving on their energy bills,” Miller says.

Fireplaces and stoves can lower heating and electricity costs that come with keeping a home warm in winter. The key is to keep the fireplace or wood stove fueled while lowering the thermostat. That way the furnace does not kick on as often, reducing electricity usage.

Miller says the following phrase helps to know if his team has met the customer’s expectations: “If they cry because they are so happy.”

“They tell all their friends about it, send a handwritten note or write a nice review about their experience with us,” he adds.

These types of responses come about because Miller believes his business is not simply about making a sale. It is about connecting with those who come into his business.

“We just love interacting with people,” he says. “It’s about building relationships.”

To keep products and service on trend, Miller Stove & Fireplace has expanded to offer an extensive selection of outdoor gas, charcoal or pellet barbecue grills, as well as popular add-ons like griddles or pizza ovens. To make that cookout even better, the store has a selection of grilling utensils, sauces and seasonings. Whether it’s a stand-alone grill, outdoor kitchen, fireplace or fire pit, Miller is ready to help his customers enjoy their yards

even more.

“Creating an outdoor living space is an extension of their home,” he says.

If an outdoor kitchen is what a customer wants, Miller can supply everything needed. This includes cabinets, grills and installation of the utility lines.

As the business continues to transition into the next chapter of leadership, Miller is thankful for the seven employees who have helped keep the “quality and comfort” portion of their motto a part of standard operating procedures. The past 34 years of happy customers would not have been possible without a great team, he says.

Customers come from an approximate two-hour radius from their shop on Beech Road. This includes Bremen, Nappanee, Wakarusa, Goshen, Warsaw, Elkhart, South Bend, Plymouth, Culver, Knox, Walkerton and Rochester.

Miller Stove & Fireplace is located at 2570 Beech Road in Bremen. For more information, visit millerstoveandfireplace. com or call 574-773-2686.

FALL FLAVORINGS

NEW KITCHEN STORE HAS PLENTY TO AID IN YOUR CULINARY PURSUITS THIS AUTUMN

Story & Photography Provided

Are you noticing anything different when you step outside?

Colors changing everywhere - orange, red, brown and yellow leaves floating from the trees to the ground and air. This can be such a pleasant time of year, as fall foods and beverages will soon be here. The smells and tastes of crisp apples and pumpkin delight, it’s all such a beautiful sight.

Don’t feel sad that summer is leaving, for now we are starting another festive season. Sunflowers bursting with bright yellows so grand. Let’s get to baking - let the feasting begin. Starting with an apple crisp sounds fun, and if you need any spices, our store carries a ton.

New Kitchen Store’s cinnamon is great to use, and is packed with amazing flavor. Maybe you need a good knife to cut the apples with - our WÜSTHOF knives will sure do the trick.

A pan to put the dessert in? We have those too - check out the Nordic Ware products.

Maybe pumpkin spice bread is what you had in mind - don’t worry, since we carry excellent nutmeg and bread pans of all kinds. If you feel like hanging a beautiful dishrag to celebrate the seasons changing, we carry dual-purpose apple pumpkin and leaf dish towels to keep up with your cleaning.

It’s never too early for pumpkin pie, and

New Kitchen Store has rolling pins, pie pans, and regency parchment paper to keep the crust from sticking. The store also has pie crust bags to keep the perfect shape, and don’t forget the pie crust shield (so there’s no burning) so your pie crust will be in great shape.

What else about fall do we love? How about some nice warm spice for your apple cider drink? Your friends will love it, and it could be a big hit. Speaking of apples, if you don’t like baking homemade pie, that’s just fine - try our

San Saba River Apple Pecan Preserves, spread in an easy pie crust. By itself, the preserve is wonderful as a jam. Use it on crackers and toast (or maybe put it on some ham).

If apple is not your favorite, that’s OK, there are plenty of other flavors to celebrate the fall away. There’s peach pecan and amaretto, cherry pecan, and fudge pecan too. It’s quite an assortment that you can choose.

Remember that fall can be a beautiful

change, as it helps us to slow down and enjoy all the beauty it has to offer. Maybe rake some leaves up, and then jump in with your son or daughter. Go for a walk or play in the sand, look for lightning bugs, or even go visit a friend. Quietly listen to cicada bugs as they chirp in the evening. When that’s over, go inside and eat the fabulous pumpkin or apple pie you made. Finally, build a campfire to end the day. Drink some hot apple cider to take the chill away.

There’s another beverage that’s kind of fun, you guessed it - hot chocolate. May we suggest some? At New Kitchen Store we have Sillycow Farms Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl, Chocolate Maple, Chocolate Moo-usse and many more.

Maybe you just want to relax and unwind, and take the time to ponder how this year’s summer has gone? Did you get to take a vacation, or see some family and friends? Did your summer fly by so fast that you can’t even remember what you did? Slow down with a small glass of wine. We carry beautiful wine glasses for such a time.

Are we making you hungry? We sure hope so. Come visit us at New Kitchen Store, located at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton. Call the store at 574-586-2745, and also visit newkitchenstore.com.

5. Merrier

GOOD DOING BUSINESS

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

A year or so ago, when the workforce of the recreational vehicle industry began to wane, Karl Yoder knew that he would have to make some career changes.

After a period of thoughtful contemplation with his father, the Yoder men had a flash of inspiration, and as the younger Yoder puts it, they decided to pursue a different venture by “jumping in to see where it would lead.”

And that’s how Tri County Consignment was launched. Karl Yoder’s fledgling business is headquartered at his family farmstead in rural Ligonier, and from the first opening moments, Yoder has been busy and blessed with support from his community and beyond. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this,” he says.

The concept of consignment is to create an environment in which clients are seeking to sell items, and they enlist the assistance of an outside source to help them reach potential customers. Tri County Consignment is that liaison between the seller and buyer, and through the workings of a typical consignment contract, the seller makes a profit, while the consignor earns a percentage of the revenue from the sale.

Yoder explains that the sales are typically scheduled once per month, with a variety of items cataloged and readied for patron perusal. Prospective sellers contact Yoder

to discuss what they wish to sell, and Yoder makes arrangements to pick up the items, usually within a day or two of the sale date.

Currently, Tri County Consignment is preparing for a sale this fall, and they are willing to accept merchandise. Thus far, most of the sales have focused on farm implements and tools, including new products from such reputable manufacturers as Makita, Milwaukee and DeWalt. The sales events are being held at the Claywood Event Center near Nappanee. Attendance at the sales events has been steady, Yoder notes, with an average of approximately 250 people in the crowds.

Even with the positive reception and rising success of Tri County Consignment, Yoder is hopeful for growth and expansion in the near future. He is hoping to add to the inventory of sales items with antiques, horse sales, real

estate, family estates, and storage units. Meanwhile, in the midst of the surge in business, Tri County Consignment is lending their support to a benefit sale that is scheduled to take place on the afternoon of October 5. All of the

proceeds from this sale will be given to a local family to assist with medical costs for an ill infant.

To learn how to assist with the upcoming benefit, or to learn more about Tri

County Consignment, contact Yoder at 260-350-4672, or simply stop by the farm, located at 11460 North 1100 West in Ligonier. They are accommodating to visitors during any day except Sunday.

SPOOKY SPECTACLE A

GLIMPSE INTO THE HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN IN THE LAKES AREA

Writer / Jeff Kenney Photography Provided

The vast majority of Lakes Magazine readers likely associate childhood Halloweens with one prominent memory: that of trickor-treating. But it was not always so, and in fact, the widespread practice of community participation in an organized trick-ortreating endeavor is a relatively recent phenomenon, here and nationally.

All of which begs a few questions (at least for those of us who ponder such things, especially from a local and regional historical angle). First, just what was Halloween like a century ago in the lakes and surrounding areas? And when did the “old” give way to the present-day practice of a fairly rigid, predetermined two-hour window of trick-or-treat fun for children?

The Old Days

These pages aren’t the venue for an extensive look back at the genesis and development of Halloween as we know it today, but by way of a basic historical overview, the holiday’s name derives from the fact that it falls on the eve of a Christian feast day, which dates back to the fairly early centuries of Christianity.

All Saints’ Day, or All Hallows (“saint” deriving from the Latin “sanctus” or “sanctified,” i.e. “set apart” or “holy”), was and is a celebration of the collective body of Christians held to be dwelling in the presence of God in glory…otherwise known as saints. There are a host of misconceptions and regularly repeated historical inaccuracies tying All Saints to the ancient, non-Christian holiday of Samhain - a claim for which virtually no ancient attestation exists. But again…a discussion for a different article entirely.

All Saints’, like many of the highest, holiest feasts in the ancient Church, was associated with the divide between the earthly and eternal realms being “thinner” than at other times of year (note the older, now largely-forgotten practice of telling ghost stories during Christmastide as one example). Also, like other feasts, All Saints’ was often observed with practices like costumed events, folk or humorous plays, or “mumming” (Twelfth Night, or the feast of the Three Kings, is another example, as is Mardi Gras, as the eve of the start of Lent).

The ancient Christian focus on the end of life and eternal destination of the soul ostensibly led to a variety of practices associated with depicting the conflict between good and evil,

This early 20th century postcard depicts common activities engaged in on Halloween night as alternatives to widespread mischief amongst youth.

which brings us to one common practice that has largely gone by the wayside in contemporary American life: that of widespread pranks, sometimes quite destructive.

As early as 1780, Scottish poet John Mayne, in his poem “Halloween,” described “fearful pranks” taking place, and (bringing it closer to home for Lakes Magazine readers) an article dating as far back as 1883 in the Fort Wayne Daily News warns that “the sportive boys of Fort Wayne will be up to their usual pranks, and cabbages which have not been spiked down are liable to be carried out of the lot and thrown against doors.”

Signs were likely to be changed and gates removed, the article further suggested, and a similar piece the following year, 1884, in the Edinburgh Daily Courier warned of both “lads and lassies” engaging in mischief, with the “wise man” admonished to “take in his well, chain down his outhouses and gates, or guard over them all night with a shotgun loaded to the muzzle with bird shot, pepper, and salt...”

Such advice was at times taken seriously, as evidenced by an incident many years later in 1944 in Elgin, Illinois, where a group of children, evidently still holding to the older-world form of trickor-treating, unsuccessfully sought treats at a house and proceeded to pelt it with corn (a common “trick” in response to the absence

KERSTING’S CYCLE CENTER

of a “treat” in those days). The homeowner rounded the corner with a shotgun loaded with dried split peas and opened fire, with 12-year-old Marilyn Lange receiving a number of peas to her “lower extremities” (that is, the last part of her still rounding the corner in retreat from the house, according to the article), causing her to be hospitalized.

As an aside, the aforementioned 1883 Fort Wayne article dedicated most of its space to another lost tradition associated with Halloween and various other Christian feasts as observed in more superstitious times and realms: the opportunity for young men and women to foretell their future romantic prospects through odds and ends of folk means similar to divination.

That said, the more wholesome and widespread observations of

Halloween a century ago in the lakes area were dedicated, as was the case around the country, to Halloween-themed parties and events.

A survey of the Munster Times newspapers from the month of October 1923 reveals Halloween parties thrown by virtually every social entity and organization in the area, from the Hammond Elks to the Munster Boy Scouts, country clubs to individual party hosts. Gary businessmen donated prizes for the best costume for a costume parade organized by a local park policeman (and indeed, Halloween costume parades and civic contests were widespread into the 1940s and beyond). A Hammond department store offered black and orange jelly beans and pumpkins for your Halloween party needs. Down the street, the Straube Piano & Music Company of Hammond offered the latest spooky-themed 78 records to be purchased in time for Halloween parties.

On the other end of lakes area-geography, Fisher’s Drug Store in Bremen offered party favors, masks and novelties for Halloween parties, and a Halloween box supper and carnival was held at the Argos schoolhouse on October 28.

Another highlight of Halloween night, 1923, in Argos involved 26 members of the Friendship Class club attending a party at the home of Mrs. L.N. Scafer, which included contests, rope walking, pumpkin shooting and fortune telling.

In Culver, the annual Lions Club children’s Halloween party of the 1940s carried on the town tradition from earlier years of an outdoor costume parade that was eventually brought indoors to the elementary school gymnasium, where a Lions-sponsored costume contest and cash prizes still persist to this day.

Trick-or-Treating

During those earlier years, the practice of seeking treats to ward off juvenile “tricks” was slowly gaining popularity in America and the Midwest.

As with the origins of Halloween itself, there are a variety of assertions about the genesis of trick-or-treating in centuries past, but the tradition of “guising,” or moving from house to house at Halloween while putting on a mini performance, to be rewarded with food or treats, dates to Scotland and Ireland at least as of the 16th

century (and again, it bears strong resemblance to the “mumming” of Twelfth Night and other Christian holy days).

Most sources say the earliest documented manifestations of the practice among children in North America date officially to 1911 in the province of Ontario, Canada. The use of the term “trick or treat” was recorded six years later in the same province, in 1917, though specific phrasing in the ensuing years varied considerably depending upon location and time frame, with alternate terms appearing such as “treat up or tricks,” “treat or tricks,” and “tricks or treats” (the latter was used, in fact, in the legendary 1966 animated TV special, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”).

As Halloween mischief only grew during the Great Depression of the 1930s, at times involving acts of vandalism or violence, one theory holds that adult-organized trick-or-treating grew as a response to the situation during that era. However, sugar rationing during the World War II years of the 1940s curtailed the availability of treats to hand out, slowing the rise in popularity of organized trick-or-treating.

By the late war and postwar years, trick-or-treating was increasingly becoming the norm in the lakes area and the country as a whole, though the transition from the old pranks and All Hallows eve mischief was a gradual one.

Lakes-area newspapers saw a flurry of letters to the editor taking sides in a debate over whether costumed children seeking apples and other simple treats on Halloween night constituted “begging” and should

be disallowed. One East Chicago, Indiana, mother wrote in 1945, in response to such a letter, that her own parents first took her out in costume on Halloween night in 1923 seeking treats, and that she was continuing the tradition.

A 1947 Richmond, Indiana, article titled “Trick or Treat and it was All in Fun as Young and Old Celebrate Halloween,” noted that “children and adults littered the streets with corn as they strolled up and down the town in their wildest Halloween garb,” suggesting that the old corn-throwing “trick” was normalized to the extent that it only barely merited mention!

In 1950, The Culver Citizen noted that the previous year’s “trick or treating” was still accompanied by “window soaping” directed by some youngsters at houses where treats weren’t provided. Town officials asked parents to help curtail such practices and reminded them that children under 16 had a 10 p.m. curfew to be off the streets.

One game-changing factor that contributed significantly to the more organized and benign trends in trick-or-treating of today was the advent of Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, which gained widespread popularity in the mid-1950s.

Housewife and mother Mary Emma Allison concocted the notion of collecting money for undernourished children around the world on Halloween alongside treats, when she saw a UNICEF booth collecting for funds in 1949 in her Philadelphia neighborhood. By 1953, the U.S. committee for UNICEF began promoting the

practice, which became ubiquitous nationally by the 1960s, earning a Nobel Peace Prize and praise from U.S. President Lyndon Johnson in 1965.

The Culver Citizen reported, in its edition on October 24, 1956, on a trend many communities were establishing around that time. Rather than completely replacing the traditional treat-seeking of Halloween night, a designated UNICEF trick-or-treat night was established on October 29, during which individual children or families, or groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts or church groups, would canvass neighborhoods for coins for UNICEF. Interestingly, the Town of Culver established that both October 30 and 31 would be set aside for traditional candy-seeking trick-or-treating.

As was the case for many years, no specific time frame was given for trick-or-treating, though in later decades most municipalities would establish set hours, usually just a two-hour time frame, for costumed candy-seeking.

As awareness grew of injuries and deaths from children - often in dark, hard-to-see costumes - being hit by cars during trick-or-treat hours, more recent decades have also seen the official time frame scaled back, from generally still taking place after dark in decades past, to a daylight-to-dusk time frame (5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in many lakesarea communities).

Of course, candy and costume companies have capitalized over the years upon the standardization of trick-or-treating as an organized

and widespread community event. Perhaps ironically, a holiday once associated with a Christian feast and/or punctuated by widespread acts of mischief has become the nation’s second-largest commercial holiday after Christmas.

All things considered, the majority of Americans are likely none too remorseful that the oft-repeated “trick or treat” from the mouths of lakes-area youngsters on Halloween night this year is merely an expression…and no longer a threat.

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

First Lady Betty Ford greets UNICEF trick-or-treaters on the White House Lawn in 1974, an indication of how widespread was the practice of trick-or-treating for the children’s charity across the nation, a trend which led to many communities giving

Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists

PREP TIME 10 minutes COOK TIME 10 minutes TOTAL TIME 20 minutes

Ingredients

• refrigerated crescent roll dough 1 TUBE 1/2 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 cup Brown sugar

• 1 Tablespoon maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

• 2 Tablespoons melted butter

• 1 Tablespoon Sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• whipped cream for dipping

OPTIONAL

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup and pumpkin spice. Unroll crescent dough on a cutting board. Cut the dough in half so

you have two identical rectangles and lay them beside each other.

Evenly spread the pumpkin mixture over one of the rectangles of dough.

Place the second rectangle of dough on top of the first rectangle of dough (so the pumpkin mixture is sandwiched between them). Make sure you line up all the edges.

Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips approximately 3/4 inch wide. Transfer the strips to the parchment lined baking sheet.

Twist each strip by picking up one end and twisting it twice, then picking up the other end and twisting it another 2 or 3 times. Brush melted butter generously over each twist.

Mix together the sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle evenly over each twist.

Bake at 375F for 8-11 minutes until golden brown.

Danny Miller Jr., better known just as JR, is the owner of Miller Boat Restoration. He says he has the best of both worlds, as he gets to enjoy running a business and is fortunate enough to do it all out of the comfort of his own home.

The company has been in operation for approximately five years. As the business continued to thrive, JR knew he wanted to do it full time. That is exactly what he decided to do a little over a year ago.

Writer / Ali Schneider Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

Miller has extensive knowledge when it comes to the boating industry. This allows him to serve his clientele with the greatest quality and satisfaction. As far as the type of boats they focus on, they are primarily pontoons. He can take any pontoon, no matter the make, model or year, and restore it back to its glory. Some of their most popular restorations include boat covers, seats, flooring, railings and Bimini tops.

Miller says a customer can bring in a boat that is damaged, and they can source the products to repair it. For example, if a customer has a tear in one of their seats, Miller is able to repair it without having to replace the entire seat. He is very talented and experienced when it comes to reupholstering pontoon seats. However, if you are looking to upgrade or refresh your seating section, Miller can swap it out for newer seats of your choice.

Additionally, Miller can clean your boat seats if they have too much mold on them, which pontoons often acquire throughout the boating season and over the years. After he cleans your seats, they will look fresh and brand new. The seating aspect of the business is important to him, as this is where family and friends gather when they are out on the water.

Over the lifetime of a pontoon, the carpet may become old and out of

style. Miller says his company focuses on using a unique waterproof flooring method when swapping out an owner’s carpet. He prefers this method as it is marine-grade flooring, and lasts longer than carpet. However, if you prefer to keep your carpet, he will gladly swap it out for new carpet. Similar to cleaning boat seats, he is able to do the same for your carpet using a high-quality deep cleaner. Whatever the customer chooses to go with, he will be happy to accommodate.

Apart from the aesthetic services, Miller is able to provide electrical

services as well. This includes fixing or replacing batteries, boat lights, gauges and switches. All of these are critical to keeping a pontoon running optimally, and he makes sure the job gets done right.

Bimini tops are crucial to a pontoon, especially on hot summer days. A Bimini top can best be described as an open-front top that goes over the boat, generally covering the seating area. They are usually made of canvas and are supported by a metal frame. They provide comfort by creating a shaded space for boaters to relax and enjoy

Rendering of new building

their time on the water.

The variety of services Miller is able to offer is almost endless. He is even able to replace railings, panels and decals. Whether you are looking to update the appearance of your pontoon, or if it needs actual repairs, Miller is likely able to handle the job. The only service he does not offer is on engines and motors.

Miller works primarily on his own, which he says he does not mind. However, occasionally his kids will get involved and offer him an extra set of hands. It is a great perk to working from home, and also teaches his children skills they can use in the future. He is up early every day and starts working around 5:30 am. He says he will typically work until 2:30 p.m. every day. However, if a customer contacts him, he will gladly adjust his hours to meet their needs.

Customers come from near and far. For example, he has customers from Syracuse Lake, Lake Wawasee, the Michigan, St. Joseph River, and even as far north as Detroit. Miller says he will accept customers from anywhere and will provide the same quality service to everyone.

One of the greatest joys for Miller is meeting new people and their families. His job allows him to interact with a variety of

people. Everyone has a different story of how they plan to use their pontoon, and returning customers tell him stories about how his work helped them create lifelong memories.

He says Goshen is an ideal place for him to work. Between the supplies offered in Goshen and Elkhart, he can typically source all of his materials locally. The turnaround time for his projects depends on what the customer wants, but he works as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Miller Boat Restoration is located at 62220 County Road 35 in Goshen. Call 574-501-3113 for more info.

AUTHOR OF HIS OWN DESTINY FOR

/ Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Tony Straw

It is often said that everyone has a book to write. Author T.M. Huber of Winamac is proving that adage to be true.

The 2020 college graduate in creative writing has completed eight novels, two compilations of poetry and short stories, and is currently at work on his ninth novel.

“I wrote my first novel in 2019 while still in college,” Huber says. “I’ve almost written a book a year since then.”

That novel was “Epilos,” which Huber has recently rereleased with illustrations. Other novels include “The Dark House,” “The Devil’s Prospects,” a four-part book series called the “Odyssey of Jason Peterson,” and “The Connected.”

Writer

Some of his works fall under the science fiction genre and others are considered fantasy. Huber is open to experimenting with other genres. Writing is his day job. He works eight hours a day, five days a week. That discipline, he says, helps nurture his creative process. He cautions other authors and writers to not put so much pressure on daily efforts.

Writing is only one of the tasks to be completed in developing a novel. It’s a cycle, he says, of writing, revising and sketching that fills those eight-hour days.

“Understand that not every day will have a huge payoff,” he says. “It could be a year before you see a finished project.”

When writing fantasy, Huber’s task is to build a world. That world could include a language, characters and other aspects of storytelling that are not based on anything known today. Some of his real-

world experience also manifests in some of his work, like being familiar with his family’s business, Winamac Coil Spring, which found a place in his four-part series.

He also draws on personal experiences, such as missionary work with a deaf community in Jamaica. These real-life experiences help him create believable characters and connect with his readers

- crafting everyday people who live in a fantasy world.

Inspiration can also come from multiple sources. A few of his stories came from

ideas inspired by his dreams.

Huber was born and raised in Winamac, the third of seven children of Chad and Pam Huber.

“My parents were a huge support in this,” he says. “They trusted my decision.”

Huber was homeschooled and raised a Christian. His faith has played a key role in his life, so much so that he feels as if his chosen profession was God-led. Halfway through college, he was pulled to creative writing from his previous major in game design. “I wanted to tell stories,” he says.

Struggles can also figure into the creative process. For Huber, that struggle was epilepsy. “This has been an enormous struggle and inspiration through my writing,” he says. “I have a bit of a rare form - that’s what my neurologist tells me - and while the grand mal seizures

are under control, there’s a lot of brain activity that saps my energy throughout the day. This gives me the additional challenge of prioritizing my time when my energy is up.”

Huber continues to monitor his situation and stays focused on the life balance he considers most important. That includes his faith.

“Christianity is a huge source of strength for me,” he says.

Huber has a lot of control over the type of writing he can produce. He is an independent author, which means there are many responsibilities that go beyond simply writing novels, poems and short stories. This includes editing, marketing and graphic design

Huber’s books are available to order at tmhuber.com. Those interested in following his work can subscribe to

his newsletter. He can be contacted at timothy.michael.huber@gmail.com, or at 574-242-2111.

WILDLIFE WONDERS

FIND

YOUR FUN FILL OF NATURE AND HISTORY AT POTAWATOMI WILDLIFE PARK

Writer & Photographer / Lois Tomaszewski

Nestled on 300-plus acres of rural land in the southeastern part of Marshall County is what some people called the county’s hidden gem. That secret isn’t so secret anymore as families, nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventure seekers are finding their way to Potawatomi Wildlife Park.

“We want to be known now as the place to go,” says Park Manager Lacey Pfeiffer.

There is no admission fee to visit the park, to hike the trails, gaze at the stars or play in the Tippecanoe River, which makes a loop to form part of the park’s boundaries. The park is open every season and every day, and the staff is seeking to fulfill its vision as a thriving community hub that fosters connections through nature, history and recreation for all.

Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) charity in 1982, the park continues to be guided by four principles - sustainability, community, adventure and education. Although there have been changes and challenges, the park’s director and board are focused on the future, and on delivering an outdoor experience that benefits everyone.

“We have five miles of trails and a diverse landscape,” Pfeiffer says.

The park system features prairie, woodland, wetland, pond and river landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife, get in some outdoor exercise, or simply contemplate life in the shade of a tree on the banks of the peaceful Tippecanoe.

“You get walking out here and you forget about your worries,” says Board Member Wyatt Stephan. He is the son of the late Michael Stephan, who served as park manager for 30 years.

Board Member Mandy Bailey is a frequent visitor and enjoys spending time hiking. “Every time you come out here, it is different,” she says.

Another feature of the park is its connection with area history. The 1800s village site of Potawatomi Chief Osheakkebe, also known as Stephan Benack, honors that history at a portion of the preserved site within the park. Settler history is also on display at the

Boots Cabin, built in the 1830s and the oldest building in Marshall County. It was built in Argos and relocated to the park. The cabin is one of the first encountered along the park’s entrance drive.

There is always something to do at Potawatomi Wildlife Park, Pfeiffer says. In addition to the mowed hiking trails that traverse the different landscapes, park visitors include active geocachers or yoga practitioners who come to the park for its tranquility. It frequently

hosts astronomy clubs as a designated dark-sky site, and welcomes birders to wander the woods and prairies, photographing or identifying the feathered residents.

Park programming includes guided hikes, fishing contests and workshops. The park also hosts school groups, youth organizations and other community groups. The Bessinger Pavilion, gazebos and other park facilities are also available to rent for weddings, family gatherings, reunions or corporate retreats.

For those who are mobility impaired, Pfeiffer says the board received a grant to help make the park accessible. With a reservation, a tour via utility task vehicle can be arranged so everyone can enjoy the scenic beauty and spend time with nature.

On October 7 the park’s staff and board will host a grand opening of the Michael and Sharon Stephan Nature Center. The recent expansion and renovation of the nature center was funded by memorial donations after the passing of Stephan in 2020, and his wife, Sharon, who served as park coordinator, in 2022. New additions include touch-friendly elements for children, an exhibit on Potawatomi history, and the return of some of the park’s local wildlife taxidermy.

The annual fundraising campaign is ongoing through the end of the year, with the hope of raising one-third of operating funds for the next year. Donations are appreciated.

Quality Care, Closer To Home

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

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

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

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

Bailey volunteered to serve on the board because she connects with the mission and vision started decades ago by Founder Vernon Romine. He was a local landowner who visualized a park open the public where visitors, especially

children and the poor, could enjoy recreation.

“I felt I wanted to make sure this is around for my grandchildren,” Bailey says.

Potawatomi Wildlife Park is located at 16998 State Road 331 in Tippecanoe. For more information, visit potawatomiwildlifepark.com, email potawatomiwildlifepark@gmail.com, or call 574-498-6550.

Lavender is a popular summertime bloom with a reputation as a medicinal plant. A visit to Aroma Acres lavender and wildflower farm in New Paris is both therapeutic and energizing. It is also a wonderful place to simply enjoy the scents, the views, and the friendly welcome from Owners Rich and Nancy Borkholder, and their daughter, Caryn Webster.

In July, the peak season for lavender, rows and rows of purplehued plants cover the fields at the Borkholders’ home. Other rows feature wildflowers, sunflowers and other floral blooms. Wildflowers bloom from July to October.

Produce including microgreens is grown on-site too, in the greenhouse and fields. It’s a seasonal business, from spring and summer flowers to chrysanthemums and pumpkins in the fall. Throughout the year the community is invited to come out for artisan markets or workshops, like the lavender wreath making event held in July.

A longtime farming family who raised calves, the Borkholders switched to growing lavender about six years ago. It wasn’t easy at first. The polar vortex a couple of years ago wiped out hundreds of plants, leaving only 17 to survive.

“We both like gardening and felt this was a better use of the land,” Nancy says.

Writer & Photographer / Lois Tomaszewski

Lavender is a perennial plant that grows from one to three feet. It is considered an herb. Its blooms are small and blueish-purple in color, and grow on spike-like stems. The oils in the flowers add a distinctive, balsam-like fragrance to essential oils or recipes. “I like the medicinal aspect of the [lavender] plants,” Webster says. Lavender is supposed to have a calming effect. It is antifungal, an antibiotic, and may help those with difficulty sleeping, Webster says. “It can be infused into oils and can reduce inflammation in the body,” she adds.

Webster also has perfected a special blend of lavender and ingredients that she serves in lavender lemonade and lavender hot chocolate. Lavender can be used in food recipes too.

Microgreens represent one of the more popular produce options raised by the Borkholders. Microgreens are considered nutritious and are available year-round.

“One serving of broccoli microgreens yields all of the vitamins you get from eating one whole head of broccoli,” Rich says.

They opened their you-pick operation to the public about three years ago. Visitors pay 50 cents per stem to harvest from the flower beds, or they can purchase previously picked flowers packaged in a bundle. Recently the Borkholders welcomed

a wedding party who picked their own bouquets for the ceremony in the fields. They also hosted a group of 80 children from the Boys & Girls Club, scout troops and church groups.

The farm is also available for photo shoots.

The artisan markets held in the summer and fall feature local booths selling a variety of handcrafted wares. This fall, about 40 to 50 vendors will set up shop at Aroma Acres for the fall artisan market, set for September 23 and 24.

In the marketplace barn, a variety of lavender products and farm produce is sold. Selections vary by the growing season. For example, in the fall, the pack-a-pumpkin event is a popular sale, in which shoppers fill a hollowed out pumpkin with wildflowers for $10. The pumpkin can then be used as a fall decoration.

The Borkholders encourage the picking of wildflowers. It is an important part of taking care of the crop, Rich says. “The more you cut them, they more flowers the plants produce,” he says.

There are many reasons for people to visit Aroma Acres.

Guests include lavender lovers and people who simply want to step away from busy lives.

“Some people don’t have the space to grow lavender or flowers,” Nancy says. “Some people just want to come here and sit.”

“I have to say that I did not know how calming and peaceful it can be here,” Webster says.

Aroma Acres is located at 69590 County Road 21 in New Paris. For more information, visit aromaacresfarm. com or follow them on Facebook. Send email inquiries to aromaacresllc@gmail.com.

Koontz Lake/ Walkerton/ Grovertown

ALL Times listed are Central Time

What’s Happening AT THE LAKES IN OCTOBER

EVERY MONDAY – Bingo – Doors open at 5p, Early Bird starts at 6p, and regular games start at 6:30p at the Koontz Lake Association Community building.

SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH – KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse are the second Tuesday of the month. Meeting are open to the public and community support is needed! Come to a board meeting to see if you might be interested in helping as there are several positions available to be filled!

EVERY THURSDAY –Farmers Market every Thursday from 4p – 6p(CST) in front of New Kitchen Store located at 1100 Roosevelt Road, Walkerton IN 46574.

OCTOBER 3RD – 6pm - Koontz Lake Conservancy District (KLCD) Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake and is open to the public. Interested parties may also join remotely by calling (240) 591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted.

OCTOBER 13-15TH – Americana 1800 Event at Hester Farms Log Homes

OCTOBER 13 -14TH – Tractor Show at Hester Farms Log Homes

OCTOBER 14TH – 1pm – Grand Opening of “Lin Cottage Memorial” at Hester Farms Log Homes

OCTOBER 14TH - 4p – 7p or until sold out - Tyner Odd Fellows Fish Fry at the Tyner Community Building located at 4836 French Steet.

OCTOBER 21ST – Quentin Flagg will be performing at the Grovertown Community Building located at 10355 E 500 , Grovertown, IN. Watch the Grovertown Community Clubhouse’s Facebook page for more information and including how to purchase tickets.

Bremen/Lake of the Woods

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time. Lake Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

OCTOBER 29TH – Truck or Treat at the BCC.

OCTOBER 21- BCC meeting at 9 AM @ the BCC building

OCTOBER 7TH – Noon – 10p - Octoberfest in Argos at the Community Park. Big Bear Cook Off, Kids BBQ Cook off, Hayrides, Food Trucks, Vendors, Beer Garden, Disc Golf and Corn Hole Tournaments, Bonfire and more https://www.facebook.com/ ArgosOctoberfest

OCTOBER 13-15 – Culver Fall Fest.

OCTOBER 14TH – 6p – 8p - Fall into Fellowship.  An evening of fall leaves, live music, food, and fellowship.

David’s Courage, 10924 Lincoln Hwy, Plymouth, IN 46563. Tickets include: House tours, live music, hayrides, bonfire, cornhole games, kids pumpkin painting, face painting, kids tattoos, bounce house, axe throwing, and more. Tickets also include hotdogs, walking tacos, cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn, bottled water, coffee, hot chocolate and pop. Learn more and get tickets at: https://www. davidscourage.com/fallevent

OCTOBER 21ST – Culver VFW Post 6919 Monthly Breakfast.

OCTOBER 28TH – Culver Lions Club Halloween Party

OCTOBER 31ST – Culver Town-wide Halloween Trick or Treating

OCTOBER 31ST – 5p – 7p - Town of Argos Trick or Treating

OCTOBER 31ST – Argos Park’s Department Halloweenfest at Nickel Pate Square during trick or treating hours.

Pulaski County

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

OCTOBER 7TH- Pulaski county Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Riverfest in the Winamac town park.

OCTOBER 15TH –11a-3p – Baboon Fest 2023 at the Peaceable Primate Sanctuary located at 6415 N 800 W, Winamac, IN. $10 for Adults, Kids get in FREE, $2 off with donation of School Supplies. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of these charismatic creatures with guided tours that offer insights into their behaviors and habitats. Explore our diverse gift shop, showcasing baboon-themed merchandise and souvenirs to take home. Unleash your inner artist with face painting sessions, transforming into your favorite baboon species.

Starke County

ALL Times listed are Central Time.

OCTOBER 29TH – 2p5p – Trunk or Treat at Wythogan Park