The Lakes West Magazine November 2024 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

The Plymouth Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, which kicked off in July with a celebration at the Biddle Point Inn, a chamber member, on the anniversary of the day the chamber was incorporated in 1924.

Current Chamber Board President Emily

Hutsell of Marian University Ancilla College says that “many of the people who were involved in the origination of the chamber belong to families that are still in this community. It’s a real testament to Plymouth that families have chosen to raise their families here.” Collaborating with Biddle Point Inn for this significant milestone event is just one

of the ways that the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce supports its members.

The chamber is comprised of a variety of businesses, from nonprofits to small, medium and large businesses. Chamber members reap numerous benefits from membership, including a website directory page, e-newsletter and social media mentions, networking events, business resources such as referrals and brochure distribution, and ribbon-cutting events. For full details, visit plychamber.org/chamber-services.

“Our office serves as a welcome center to people considering opening a business here,” Chamber Executive Director Connie Holzwart explains. “We take phone calls and walk-ins, and we coach them on how to begin or connect them to additional resources they might need.”

At this time of year, when you drive through downtown Plymouth you’ll find festive, seasonally decorated planters along the street, currently filled with colorful mums, which will soon transition to evergreen trees during the Plymouth downtown Christmas celebration.

Sponsored by community members and local businesses, and watered by the city of Plymouth, the chamber purchases and plants fillers from chamber member businesses - summer flowers from Cashen Creek Florist, autumn mums from Hahn’s Greenhouse, and winter evergreens from Hensler Nursery.

The chamber prides itself on taking a dynamic approach to the Plymouth community, maintaining a keen awareness of the area’s growth and the changing needs of the people and businesses who reside here. Chamber Board Secretary Shelley Marsiliano of Coldwell Banker has been on the board since 2022, and Coldwell Banker has been a chamber member for over 25 years. Marsiliano notes that a number of businesses have migrated to the Plymouth area, furthering the area’s expansion into a corporate presence, including Pretzels, Inc., owned by Hershey.

Heather King of Meridian Title Company, who has served on the chamber board since 2023 while Meridian has held chamber membership since 1997, acknowledges another significant example of Plymouth’s growth in the new Bowen Health Center being built on U.S. Highway 30. The facility will offer counseling and other services, opening up many new jobs. Other recent business additions include Ross Dress for Less, Marshalls and Starbucks. Hutsell, a 25-year resident of Plymouth, says “the chamber needs to be poised for the growth, and to educate the community about future growth needs such as increased jobs to fill.”

The chamber hosts many events throughout the year, including

the November 20 Annual Luncheon & Awards event at Swan Lake Resort, where the chamber recognizes the Citizen of the Year, Distinguished Businesswoman and Businessman, and Distinguished Small, Medium and Large Business. December will include the Women in Business luncheon, and leadership conferences throughout the year cover a variety of topics and are open to community members and businesses. Other annual events include the Bread of Life Food Drive each September. Monthly events include a monthly Business Connections networking breakfast or lunch, hosted at a chamber business location, and open to current and prospective chamber members.

After a lapse of a number of years, the chamber is proud to announce the return of the Young Adult Professionals (YAP) group, for those aged 19 to 40. The YAP events empower businessmen and businesswomen with mentoring from seasoned business professionals. The most recent YAP event was a collaboration with the nearby town of Culver’s Chamber of Commerce, and Lakehouse Grille restaurant. Matt Hovermale, new to the chamber board in the last year as general manager of Swan Lake Resort and Conference Center, whose chamber membership goes back over a dozen years, has been helping young adults even before they graduate from high school. Hovermale recently welcomed five Oregon-Davis High School students for a day of discussions and venue tours that introduced a career in hospitality to these future members of the workforce.

The chamber has its own way of uplifting local high school students by awarding the Walter

A. Glaub Scholarship, in coordination with the Marshall County Community Foundation. Each year two nonrenewable, $1,000 scholarships are awarded to Marshall County seniors. One recent recipient spent time reading to residents at a senior living facility and cleaning a local church. Helping students make higher education possible is one more way that the chamber invests in the future of Plymouth.

The chamber posts member events on its calendar, including holiday happenings throughout the season. You can find all the details on the chamber website at plychamber. org/events. You can also find timely event announcements once a month on the back page of Pilot News in the section called Chamber Chatter.

The Plymouth Chamber of Commerce is located at 120 North Michigan Street. For more information, contact Holzwart at plychamber@plychamber.org, or call 574936-2323.

AUCTION ADVENTURE

THE AUCTION LOT SPECIALIZES IN TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Writer / Julie Yates

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Jill & Kyle Simmons - Owners

The Auction Lot in Bourbon is equipped and ready to conduct auctions accessible to buyers all over the country and beyond.

Owned and run by Kyle Simmons and his wife, Jill, the online-only business is for anyone with access to a computer. With an emphasis on tools and equipment, it also handles consignment items and estate sales. All bidding is done virtually, and shipping anywhere is available. Patrons also have the option of picking up purchases at 500 West

Most of what we auction is tools and equipment, and things like skid loaders, mowers and tractors. We have also sold brandnew patio furniture, Barbies, and commercial food mixers. What we auction comes from a variety of places. People bring things to us. We buy trade-ins from used equipment dealers. Likewise, we buy merchandise from different broker platforms. We liquidate estates for families. We clean out the house so it can go on the market and get sold.”

In the auction world, the word “lot” refers to an individual object or group of objects offered for sale at auction as a single unit. However, the name The Auction Lot is also a nod to the one-and-a-half-acre lot owned by Simmons. It is the storage site for auction merchandise.

“We store all the stuff on our lot - in fact, all over our lot,” he says. “There is a 10,000-square-foot building for merchandise.

A recent auction featured new but returned overstocked goods from big-box stores such as Home Depot, Target and Walmart. It included bathroom accessories such as a shower curtain set, a shower head, and sink faucets. Also offered were door and cabinet hardware, a mailbox post kit, bedding and many more items. There were toys, bikes and scooters, and a surprising number of collectable action figurines. Besides Disney, Batman and “Star Wars” items, several lots of Funko Pop figures were auctioned off. The Funko Pop brand rose to fame in 2010 and is popular worldwide.

Center Street in Bourbon.

Made of vinyl, the figurines represent characters from pop culture and movies, and have a unique look due to their signature oversized heads and black eyes.

“We had interest from around the country and all over the world,” Simmons says. “We had views from 40 states and 15 countries, as far away as Montana and the Middle East. Before any auction, people can preview items for a few days. Once bidding is open, we let it sit for at least three to five days. Bidding always ends on a Saturday evening. The first item usually goes to end at 6 p.m., and every 30 seconds another one follows. However, if someone places a bid within those 30 seconds, it’s alive for another minute. So, that first item could end up being the last thing sold.”

Simmons says those situations are when the fun begins. Recently, a pool table went from a $60 bid to being sold at $300 in the last 10 minutes. Another example is a refrigerator that had a bid of $100 but had an ending

Since he was young, Simmons has been going to auctions. He has been in the used equipment business for 10 years and he was looking for another source to move equipment. The online auction business, booming since COVID, has opened up the ability to sell in all geographic areas; no one misses out if they are not from the area.

Upcoming events and deadlines for consignments are posted on The Auction Lot Facebook page. Items can be previewed on the auction platform website at theauctionlotllc.hibid.com.

“There is no typical auction buyer,” Simmons says. “Some people are repeat customers; they buy and then have us resell it. Some people claim they would never bid at an auction, yet once they do, they want to know when the next will be.”

“We enjoy it as a family,” he adds. “Our son, age 8, pulls orders for people and carries them out to their car. We sit and watch bidding wars as auctions are ending, and make sure there are no issues or glitches. People ask questions down to the final minute.”

The Auction Lot is located at 500 West Center Street in Bourbon. Visit theauctionlotllc.hibid.com, and view on them Facebook. You can also call 574-3631053 or email theauctionlotllc@gmail.com.

Town Square

Tavern & Eatery

BAILEYTOWN BURGERS

A NEW DINING EXPERIENCE AWAITS CUSTOMERS AT BAILEY’S DISCOUNT CENTER

Opening this fall at Bailey’s Discount Center in North Judson, BaileyTown Burgers is gearing up to be the area’s newest hotspot. This quick-service restaurant will offer a menu packed with all-American favorites such as premium hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, cookies, ice cream and more - served in a welcoming, shopper-friendly setting. Manager Jake Holland, alongside his wife, Katie, and fatherin-law, Matt Bailey, has worked tirelessly to

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Sarah Reynolds

bring this venture to life and make BaileyTown Burgers special.

Holland takes pride in their signature sixounce burgers, which are grilled fresh and made with a special blend you won’t find anywhere else. BaileyTown Burgers offers a delicious selection for everyone:

Burgers: Big, juicy and grilled to perfection,

with customizable toppings like grilled onions, pickles, fresh lettuce and Velveeta cheese.

Hot Dogs: Choose between regular or footlong, served in a unique top-sliced bun perfect for loading up with toppings.

Sidewinder Fries: Large, beer-battered, crispy twist fries ideal for dipping.

Motley (Katie and Jake’s son), Matt and Rebecca Bailey, and Katie and Jake Holland. OPENING SOON!

Bird Dogs: Crispy chicken tenders served in a warm, top-sliced hot dog bun.

Chili Cheese Fries: A delicious complement to any meal.

There are also, of course, sweet treats! Holland smiles with pride when he speaks of the eatery’s freshly baked cookies, and how the soft-serve ice cream is so good and thicker than the typical kind. He is also quite pleased about the restaurant’s exclusive ice cream sandwiches made daily with the morning’s fresh-baked cookies. Choices for the soft-serve ice cream are vanilla, chocolate and twist, and a variety of toppings for each are offered including Andes mint pieces! Milkshakes are customizable as well, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk over to Biggby Coffee for a shot of espresso to be added to your shake!

The kids menu includes chicken strips, grilled cheese, fruit pouches, and kid-sized ice cream cups - guaranteeing something for even the youngest diners. BaileyTown Burgers will also feature rotating monthly specialties in the future such as Philly cheesesteaks and pulled pork sandwiches! Gluten-sensitive patrons can choose to enjoy burger or chicken options served in a bowl, topped to their liking.

Holland personally met with each of his distributors and has been instrumental in making careful decisions about the ingredients in every menu item at BaileyTown Burgers. He insists that all meals be freshly prepared. As lead cook, he and other employees behind the counter will be stationed in close proximity to the register, so they can hear your order as you speak and immediately throw it on the grill. He vows that

Owner Jake & Son Motley during construction

“nothing will be made already, just sitting there.”

Customers can expect their freshly cooked food to be ready within the goal of eight minutes, with receipts numbered for an easy call-out pickup process. For your convenience, the BaileyTown Burgers team hopes to have the option of mobile orders that can be made via QR codes available throughout Bailey’s Discount Center, with alerts sent directly to your phone when your order is ready. This option will be available within the first six months of opening. All orders will be in togo bags to afford you the choice of dine in or carry-out. The diner seats

LOCAL EVENT CALENDAR

96 people with additional seating available at Biggby Coffee, where diners can mix and match items from both menus.

Jake and Katie, who met through a mutual friend and married in 2022, are both deeply involved in making BaileyTown Burgers a success. Katie managed the center’s Biggby Coffee location from its opening, and she and Jake are now owners of the shop. She recently shifted her focus to family life following the birth of their son, Motley, while still remaining an active business partner with Jake.

The BaileyTown Burgers team aims to become a recognizable brand across Indiana and neighboring states, with its patriotic red, white and blue burger logo becoming a symbol of quality and service. With strong support from Beecher Bailey, the founder of Bailey’s Discount Center, this new dining option is set to be a hit. A catering component

is planned for the future. The Bailey family invites everyone to come shop for the savings and stay for the food at BaileyTown Burgers.

BaileyTown Burgers, along with Bailey’s Discount Center, is located at 5900 South Range road in North Judson.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Tuesday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Wednesday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Thursday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm

Saturday by Appointment

Sunday CLOSED

BaileyTown Burgers is located inside Baileys Discount Center.

Baldwin And Company

Finance Focused

BALDWIN AND COMPANY BRINGS COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND

Writer / Amy Beaucham

Photographer / Sarah Reynolds

In today’s fast-paced world, managing finances can be overwhelming. Baldwin and Company has been a trusted partner to individuals and businesses for over 50 years, offering much more than traditional accounting services. Founded in 1963 by Wayne Baldwin, the company has grown into a comprehensive financial services firm under the leadership of Wayne’s son, Barry Baldwin. While Baldwin and Company is widely known for tax preparation, their offerings span a broad range of financial services designed to reduce the burden of financial management for their clients.

Barry, who assumed ownership of the company in 1999, has not only continued his father’s legacy, but also expanded it significantly. Today, Baldwin and Company operates offices in Rochester and Logansport.

Karen, Tonya, Staci ; Linda and Barry

Wayne Baldwin, now 87, remains an active part of the business, demonstrating that his sharpness and experience truly transcend time. Barry’s wife, Linda, also contributes to the company, overseeing business development, while his sister, Rhonda Corn, manages the Logansport office. The close-knit family dynamic is an essential part of what makes Baldwin and Company stand out.

While Baldwin and Company handles tax preparation for individuals, corporations, partnerships, estates, trusts and nonprofits, their services extend far beyond tax season. Barry is an enrolled agent, a title granted by the U.S. Treasury, which allows him to represent clients in all 50 states before the IRS - an advantage that sets him apart from CPAs, who are typically state-licensed. Being an enrolled agent is a significant factor in the specialty services he can provide. This designation grants him legal abilities similar to those of an attorney in tax matters. With few enrolled agents in the area, Baldwin and Company stands out as a valuable resource for

clients needing IRS representation.

Barry once handled a complex case involving a client whose ex-husband was the son of one of the victims in the infamous Tylenol murders. The ex-husband had failed to report a settlement from the Tylenol manufacturers, which left Barry’s client with unexpected tax liabilities. Through diligent investigation and negotiation with the IRS, Barry was able to resolve the case and secure relief for his client, demonstrating his expertise in handling complicated tax situations.

Baldwin and Company is dedicated to helping small businesses thrive. Barry and his team offer new business start-up consultations, payroll services, and bookkeeping support to help businesses get off on the right foot. One of the firm’s most innovative services is their Business 911 Plan, which provides handson, personalized assistance to struggling businesses. The program proved especially helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Linda spearheaded promotional

strategies that helped clients not only survive, but thrive. Businesses that participated in the plan reported significant growth, with one client seeing a 125% increase after implementing Baldwin and Company’s recommendations.

In addition to providing practical business solutions, Baldwin and Company have established a complimentary referral network exclusively for their clients. Barry and his team use their extensive connections to recommend reliable contractors, service providers and other businesses. This referral network has become a valuable resource for clients across the nation.

Beyond their business services, Baldwin and Company has developed a unique personal finance management program called We Care Concierge, spearheaded by Linda. This service assists individuals with managing their finances, whether it’s balancing checkbooks, paying bills or overseeing personal budgets. The service assists a wide range of clients including elderly

“We

focus on keeping our clients in business and keeping them profitable.” - Barry Baldwin

individuals, busy professionals and truck drivers. Throughout the process, Baldwin and Company ensures that clients maintain full control and access to their accounts, providing peace of mind while managing dayto-day financial tasks. The goal is to deliver reliable support, allowing clients to focus on other priorities without the stress of financial management.

In Logansport, Baldwin and Company recently relocated to a more centrally located office at 2130 East Market Street. Linda contributed her design expertise to create a very efficient and welcoming space for clients. This new location features a drivethrough service, providing clients with the convenience of quick drop-offs and pickups for documents.

Barry believes that staying current with tax laws and financial regulations is essential to maintaining the firm’s high standards. As an enrolled agent, Barry is required to complete a minimum of 72 hours of continuing education every three years, though he consistently exceeds this requirement. Barry’s dedication to ongoing education ensures that Baldwin and Company can provide clients

Welcome Back

with the most accurate and up-to-date advice.

Barry is deeply involved in the community, serving as a Fulton County Council elect. precinct chairman, and on the board of zoning appeals, while Linda also serves on several boards. Together they support a range of local programs including the Cass County Carousel, and contribute their time and expertise through occasional pro bono work. Barry has also shared his passion for financial literacy by teaching business and accounting courses at local schools and colleges. He strongly believes that financial management should be taught starting in middle school to better prepare future generations for the complexities of personal and business finances.

Dr. Selio

Baldwin and Company operates with a clear philosophy; do the right thing for the client, and everything else will follow. Confidentiality and trust are at the heart of the company’s operations. Barry’s team is small but it is close-knit, with most employees having been with the company for years. This loyalty extends to their clients, who appreciate the personalized service they receive.

“We focus on keeping our clients in business and keeping them profitable,” Barry says. “Whether representing a client before the IRS, helping a small business get off the ground, or managing personal finances through the We Care Concierge service, Baldwin and Company is committed to delivering solutions that benefit clients.

For reliable, comprehensive financial solutions that bring peace of mind, Baldwin and Company is your trusted partner in navigating both personal and business finances.

For more information or to schedule your free new client consultation, visit Baldwin and Company at either their Rochester office at 814 Main Street, or their Logansport office, which also offers a convenient drive-through service. You can reach the Rochester office at 574-223-2454 and the Logansport office at 574-753-3498. To view their full list of services, visit their website at baldwinea.com, or email inquiries to baldwintaxman@gmail.com.

P.J. Gilsinger & Co.

A Place to Visit!

P.J. Gilsinger family museum will explain the history of the oldest John Deere Dealer in the world at it’s original store location. Since 1899 The Gilsinger family has served farmers in our area.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE ADMISSION

• Farm Equipment

• Local School Memorabilia

• WWII Artifacts

• Early Household and Farming Tools

• Several Unusual Exhibits

Museum Hours:

May-October Friday & Sunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm November-April by Appointment Only

Contact Brenda Gilsinger for Inquiries or Appointments (574)595-7851

5641 S. Main St. Winamac, Indiana

Custom Built Vinyl Windows

Windows • Storm Doors • Screen Doors •Sliding Glass Doors • New Construction & Replacement Windows

Call today for free estimate (574) 825-7863 • 59323 CR 35, Middlebury

We offer Provia Windows that have a lifetime warranty that includes glass breakage

Hours (March 6 - Nov 29): Monday 12PM -6PM Tuesday-Thursday 10AM-6PM Friday 10AM-5PM Saturday 10AM-3PM

From times of joy and happiness to periods of grief and sorrow, a personal touch or action can mean so much to the recipient. Putting pen to paper allows for expression in a way that an email or text often cannot. A card, especially a handmade card, can convey a caring feeling in a way that technology might not be able to.

If you have the aspiration to share your

HOBBY HELP

KATEE’S HOBBY SHOP HAS EVERYTHING FOR YOUR CRAFTING JOURNEY

true feelings with someone, a visit to Katee’s Hobby Shop in Nappanee can help you express your thoughts and emotions by helping you to create a card or keepsake with that personal touch.

A short drive through rolling farms and lush fields brings you to Katee’s Hobby Shop, nestled among rows and rows of golden corn. Upon entering, one is greeted

by proprietor Katie Hochstetler, along with a warm smile and inviting disposition. In her shop, one can expect to find everything that you would need to create a card with a personal touch, as well as materials to produce a collection of mementos and reminders, commonly known as a scrapbook. In addition to the supplies one would need to convey their own individual expressions, Hochstetler’s knowledge,

Writer / Mike Dikos

experience and suggestions are readily shared.

The shop opened in September of 2019, but Hochstetler has been making cards for 20 years. With such a vast amount of experience behind her, one can rest assured that her knowledge and guidance will steer you in the right direction when creating your own personal greeting card. Turning her hobby into a business is something that she wanted to do, but didn’t need to do. “My hobby-turnedbusiness allows me to be at home while also providing a bit of income,” she says.

Hochstetler’s shop can provide you with the supplies you need, whether you are a novice or experienced. Paper Rose and Gina Marie are just some of the popular brands available.

The shop offers a wide assortment of quality paper in a variety of colors. Also available is a large selection of rubber

stamps, consisting of images and popular phrases, to assist in the personalization of your card. “If one uses a little effort in the care of their rubber stamps, they can last indefinitely,” says Hochstetler. Inks and dyes, as well as stencils and other crafting materials, can be procured from Katee’s Hobby Shop to create a card as individual as you are. Personally selecting a color, or a phrase or image that touches your loved one exclusively, says and means so much.

Scrapbooking has seen a resurgence as of late, and is another way to show one’s individualism. Ticket stubs, locks of hair, photos and other personal items can bring alive reminders and recollections from past times. Paper, glue, dies, brushes and individual embellishments can help you create that one-of-a-kind memento for yourself or special someone. Your personal collection of remembrances, or the souvenirs or keepsakes of someone else, can all be brought together into a cherished book of memories that allows

one to go back in time and reminisce. In addition to having everything you need to create such an anthology of uniqueness, Hochstetler’s suggestions and guidance are always available to assist you.

In addition to having everything you need to design a card, the shop offers classes that will help you to get started and guide you in the process. Hochstetler provides instruction on the use of specific products, as well as the best way to tie everything together.

When the need or desire arises for expression in the form of a simple card, a trip to Katee’s Hobby Shop has everything you need, and the knowledge to guide you.

The shop is located at 7916 800 West in Nappanee, and can be reached at 574354-4274. Go to kateeshobbyshop.com to learn more.

• Dollars - 1935 & Before

• Proof & Mint Sets

• Old Paper Money

• Old U.S. Coins

• Foreign Coins

• Gold & Silver Coins

• Gold & Silver Bullion

• Pennies - 1958 & Before

• Nickels - 1938 & Before

• Nickels - 1942-1945

EXPANDING ITS CANVAS

THE HEARTLAND ART CENTER IS TAKING EXCITING STEPS AS A REGIONAL HUB FOR THE ARTS

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Tony Straw

The Heartland Art Center in Plymouth has long been a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural enrichment. Originally conceived in the 1970s, a group of local artists met in a high school classroom to discuss how they could support each other within the community. In the 90s, that idea became the Heartland Art Center.

Over the years the gallery has evolved into a thriving center for the arts and a cornerstone of Plymouth’s cultural community.

In March 2024, the Heartland Art Center took a significant step by relocating to the historic former Montgomery Ward building. Moving from its modest 2,000-square-foot venue to an expansive 23,000-square-foot facility has enhanced its ability to host larger exhibitions and events, and offer a wider range of educational classes.

To ensure the center’s long-term sustainability and move forward with renovations, the Heartland Art Center is planning to purchase the building and will

Front Row (left to right): Jayne Jacobson, Kathy Dixon Back Row (left to right): Anna Kietzman, Tresa Hammond, Jon Miller, Rhonda Kinney-Prybylla

be launching a capital campaign. Preserving the architectural beauty of the Plymouth landmark is a priority, with plans to conserve the classic Montgomery Ward windows and other timeless features. By securing a permanent home in downtown Plymouth, the center seeks to establish itself as a lasting regional institution for the arts, transforming the space into a state-of-the-art facility for creativity and collaboration while at the same time preserving its new home’s historic character. The location was most recently Downtown Discounts.

“Our new home at 214 North Michigan welcomed us on March 1, 2024,” says Heartland Art Center President, Anna Kietzman. “We are unbelievably grateful for the enthusiasm and support from the community. We could never have done this without the gracious partnership of Amanda and Jeremy Price of Downtown Discounts. They are truly wonderful people who are so community minded.”

With this expanded space, the art gallery has increased its capacity for ambitious exhibitions, showcasing contemporary, historical and cross-disciplinary works. The gallery traditionally holds two juried art shows each year, which are significant events for the regional art community. In May, the “Small Wonders” art exhibit showcased artworks no larger than 12 by 12 inches, attracting artists who rose to the creative challenge of working within the small format. In October the gallery hosted its largest juried show, highlighting the best artists from Northern Indiana and some from out of state.

One of the center’s primary goals is to foster community engagement through the arts. Beloved community events such as the Saturday Sounds series bring in music lovers from around the area, where live performances accompany art displays. The center conducted its vibrant 10th annual Arts in the Street Festival in July. An upcoming highlight is the second annual

TRIANGLE

of Life

Black & White Gala & Auction, set to take place on November 15. This gala will feature live music, hors d’oeuvres and an art auction, with proceeds supporting the center’s future building renovation.

The Heartland Art Center emphasizes supporting artists as professionals, ensuring fair compensation for their work. The center provides a platform for local and regional artists to sell their work through their gallery and gift shop, which features everything from painting and pottery to jewelry and stained glass. By treating artists as professionals, Kietzman and her team strive to encourage perceptions of art as both a cultural and economic contributor to the community.

Kietzman expressed that the center’s ultimate goal for the new location is to create “a cohesive and functional space for artistic expression, drawing artists from this region and beyond to foster a vibrant exchange of artistic ideas and further enhancing the

center’s impact on the local and regional arts scene.” One of the most exciting desired future projects is the establishment of an artist-in-residence apartment within the new location. This residency will increase the opportunity for artists from across the country to live and work in Plymouth. The center is also working toward developing an unofficial art block in downtown Plymouth, further cementing its role as a regional hub

In addition to its extensive programming, the Heartland Art Center offers opportunities for individuals and families to become more deeply involved through membership. The center’s membership model emphasizes inclusivity and active participation. Annual membership fees are very affordable and offer a variety of ways to engage. Members

enjoy benefits such as discounts on gallery purchases and art classes, as well as access to special events and exhibitions. For artists, membership offers the chance to showcase their work in the gallery and at regional exhibits.

The Heartland Art Center plays an important role in regional art collaborations. Just recently, the center partnered with

Accent your kitchen with a

metal range hood. Fully customized to your specs and style.

for the arts.

The REES Theatre, Wild Rose Moon, and the Marshall County Historical Museum for Celebrate the Arts Week. The center hosted a pre-concert and happy hour event featuring local musician Byron Craft, and also treated an audience to a performance called “Images of Sound” featuring local musicians and the Marshall County Church

Orchestra. Live painters created art in real time to the orchestra’s performance of Modest Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition”.

The Heartland Art Center remains open to the public, with gallery hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Families are encouraged to visit the center’s Kid’s Corner, which offers fun activities for aspiring young artists while parents explore the gallery or shop for unique gifts. For more information, visit the Heartland Art Center at 214 North Michigan Street in Plymouth, or contact them at heartlandartistsgallery@gmail.com or 574-936-9515.

As the Heartland Art Center continues to grow, its mission remains focused on promoting artistic excellence, engaging the community, and creating opportunities for local and regional artists. With its larger space, expanded programming, and commitment to nurturing the visual and performing arts, the Heartland Art Center is poised to become a cultural beacon for Northern Indiana and beyond. By expanding its canvas as a regional hub for the arts, the Heartland Art Center ensures that Plymouth continues to be a vibrant destination for creative expression and cultural enrichment.

• New & Repair

• Boat Covers

• Pontoon Covers

• Custom Covers

• Patio Enclosures

• Patio Furniture Covers

• Grill Covers

HARVEST VEGGIES BOWLS

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

• 1 small zucchini, diced

• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

• 1 cup butternut squash, diced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roast the Acorn Squash: Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place cutside down on the prepared baking sheet and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

3. Roast the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the diced zucchini, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread the vegetables on another baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, stirring halfway through.

4. Make the Maple Walnuts: While the vegetables are roasting, heat a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast for 2-3 minutes. Drizzle in the maple syrup and stir to coat the walnuts. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the syrup thickens and coats the nuts. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. Stuff the Acorn Squash: Once the acorn squash and veggies are done roasting, stuff the roasted vegetables into each squash half. Top with the maple walnuts and crumbled feta cheese.

6. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday side dish!

NOVEMBER CROSSWORD PUZZLE

DOWN

1. Chinese gemstone

2. Aware of

3. Least shaky

4. Pie baker’s utensil

5. Went nowhere

6. Poetic contraction

7. Took the tiller

8. Tough

9. “That’s it!”

10. “___ so fast!”

11. Anil or woad

19. Bit of sweat 21. Doze

24. It may be heightened 25. Advanced 26. Understands 27. Radar screen image 28. Liturgy 29. Seek a seat 32. Strikes out

33. Better half

35. “___ rang?”

36. Sidetrack

38. Butler at Tara 39. Cuban singer Cruz

42. Like some grins

43. Disavow

44. Flight delayer, perhaps

Jointly owned, maybe

Industrial injury

48. Babysitter’s handful

GOBBLE ‘TIL YOU WOBBLE

THANKSGIVING WITH MY FAMILY

Writer / Tami Hudson

Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when we gather around the table to give thanks, eat until we can’t move, and then eat some more. It’s a holiday that brings out the best in us, and sometimes the funniest.

It is also a time when family members from

far and wide come together. This means you’re likely to see relatives you haven’t seen since last Thanksgiving, and sometimes for good reason. There’s always that one uncle who insists on talking politics, the cousin who brings the latest order form for whatever products her kids are selling, and the aunt

who asks why your son is still single. (How about you ask him and then we’ll both know?)

If your family is anything like mine, our Thanksgiving meal is really like any of the others we have, in that it centers around the food. But for me, this holiday is specifically about two dishes - the dressing and the pie. First, let’s just set the record straight - it’s dressing, and not stuffing. There is no bird stuffing in our family. It’s all about my greataunt Tot’s dressing. She normally makes two batches - one with oysters, and one for the rest of us (like me) who think that any dish with oysters as an ingredient is just wrong. If you are lucky, there might be enough of her dressing left for dinner, if you are one of the first five people in line. He who hesitates gets

a plate of cranberry salad, and a scoop of mashed potatoes. The fight for the best leftovers is real in our family!

Let’s not forget about the second dish, which is really almost as important as the first - the pie. Call me a pie snob if you will, but pie at Thanksgiving needs to be homemade, either in one of my family member’s kitchens, or from a local bakery. None of these grocery-store frozen pies on this holiday! There is always the traditional

pumpkin pie, of course, because…is it really Thanksgiving without it? Even for those of you who, like me, detest all things pumpkin, I feel it rightfully deserves its place on the Thanksgiving table. But for me, it’s all about the pecan pie. I may not enjoy it any other time of the year, but it’s the one dessert that I always look forward to at this family gathering.

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After the meal, we divide up into different groups in different rooms of the host’s home. The room with the largest TV and most comfy furniture is where the men gravitate to, because, let’s be honest, it may start with football but it ends with a nap (as well as some snoring from a few of them). A large group of us gather for our annual family card/dice game that we have named “Whoopie!” Everyone takes their spot at the table and pairs with a new partner for each round, hoping the dice roll in their favor. We get loud, we get obnoxious, and we will occasionally disturb the football game, aka sleeping men. Those who don’t want to play the game or watch football end up in yet another room of the house, to just converse with each other, and maybe even plan their Black Friday shopping strategy.

In the end, for me, the Thanksgiving holiday is all about creating memories with loved ones, whether they’re funny, touching or a little bit of both. It’s a time for gratitude and thanks, for the food on the table, the

family around us, for every one of our blessings. These are the moments that make the holiday memorable.

So here’s to a holiday when we can enjoy good food, great company and plenty of laughs. May your turkey be juicy, your family be bearable, and your stretchy pants be forgiving. Happy Thanksgiving!

Make sure to visit New Kitchen Store at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton, for all your holiday tools, turkey fixings and gourmet foods.

BIG, BAD INDIANA WOLVES

A WILD HISTORY

Writer / Jeff Kenney

Many readers of an age and background to remember The Lakes Magazine readership area two or more decades ago will recall that the spread of coyotes in a wide swath of the area (they were, of course, longago natives to the region before its widespread settlement) is a relatively recent phenomenon, though many likely regard it as not necessarily a positive one.

No one alive today, however, remembers the days in northwest Indiana when wolves were a regular part of the natural landscape - a time when their presence was regarded by many as being similar in nuisance value to that of coyotes, but with much greater concern not only over the ever-present threat to wildlife, but in the case of wolves - specifically, in Indiana, gray wolves - to people as well (even if, on the whole, that threat is more a myth than reality).

Such concerns were at the heart of a campaign so successful across the Hoosier state that wolves are considered to have been officially eliminated in Indiana by 1908 (even if sporadic reports of their presence show up occasionally in the decades following). Along similar lines, the once-abundant black bear population was eliminated from Indiana much earlier, by 1850.

At its entrance into the Union in 1816, Indiana was teeming with wolves, black bears, mountain lions (or cougars) and, of course, bison. On a smaller scale, bobcats, or lynx, were also prevalent and have made a significant comeback in recent years, such that a hunting season for the felines is under consideration, especially given their prevalence in the central and southern counties of the state (in fact, a Facebook page documents bobcat sightings across the Hoosier state, and many have been photographed in this area in recent months and years).

Virtually from its first day of statehood, fears relating to the prevalence of wolves were such that budgets were carved out to pay for wolf “bounties,” among other such incentives. According to an article on the Hoosier State Chronicles (HSC) blog in 2015, the state budget as early as 1817 included dollars allocated to reward citizens for bringing wolf scalps to their local courthouse or other designated public destination in exchange for a dollar amount, all intended as a public service to reduce the prominence of the canines. Residents could even pay their taxes with animal scalps or hides in some areas.

The HSC site includes an 1833 clipping from the Indiana Palladium

STEVE

“The

newspaper showcasing the fact that the annual state budget for wolf scalp payments ($800) matched the allocation for state prisons! That amount far surpassed the mere $150 line item for the “State Library, Adjutant General, & etc.”

Also cited was an 1881 article in the Indiana State Sentinel, in which an old-timer recalled a bounty of $2.50 per wolf scalp, which had to be large enough to include both ears. The Indiana Genealogical Society website includes a number of scanned documents provided by the Marshall County Historical Society in nearby Plymouth between 1845 and 1857 recording wolf scalp payments channeled through the county circuit clerk. Typical is a notation written on May 29, 1851, documenting that Henry Taylor presented seven wolf scalps to Marshall County Clerk Richard Corbaley, which earned him $1.50 per scalp.

As the HSC article notes, some of the fears surrounding wolves carried over from several different sources, including fairy tales and myths such as those collected in Europe (still not such a distant land for people in Indiana in the early 19th century) by the Brothers Grimm like “Little Red Riding Hood”, with her frightening encounter with “the big bad wolf.”

Less fanciful stories of wolf attacks dominated the minds of earlier Hoosiers as well. The HSC article references an 1880 article in the

Terre Haute Daily News that describes an incident near Lansing, Michigan, during the frozen winter of 1845 there. According to the firsthand account, a pack of hungry wolves attacked the stagecoach driven by the author’s father, who cut loose a few of the terrified horses, effectively offering them as a sacrifice to the snarling wolves. One bloodied horse made it to the town of Lansing, spurring a group of armed men to ride to the rescue of the frightened family, after which “every man and boy in town was out to hunt wolves.”

As late as October of 1922, The South Bend News-Times ran a story about seven wolves driven from a swamp near Warsaw by fire that were attacking a local man, leading to school bus drivers and local parents arming themselves while taking their children to school.

The above stories may well have been true, though many such tales - including more mythic ones involving werewolves or other supernaturally endowed variations on the creatures - circulated for years, and were exaggerations or outright inventions.

That said, it might surprise readers to learn how many deadly wolf attacks still take place today, though few in North America. Of those, most were in Alaska and Canada - one in 2010, one in 2005, and a handful in the 1990s involving captive wolves. From there, very sporadic attacks date to the 1940s, 1920s and earlier, according to Wikipedia.

In other parts of the world, however, attacks are much more frequent and deadly. Between March and September of 2024, a pack of six wolves in India killed 10 people and injured 30 more, though five of the wolves were eventually captured.

Other recent attacks occurred in the Netherlands and Russia, with Russia reporting that more than 200 people were attacked by wolves on various occasions and in various locations during the year 2020 alone. Attack reports in the 2010s were dominated by Russia, Belarus, the Ukraine and India, among other locales, with several relating to rabies on the part of the attacking wolves.

All in all, perhaps hard data like that above, coupled with concerns about livestock safety, sheds light on why Indiana, and indeed much of the U.S. in more “pioneer” days, encouraged eradication of a species seen largely in a negative light, though of course absence of wolves and other natural predators has been a major factor in overpopulation problems for a more modern “pest” species - the

white-tailed deer (though in fairness, the likelihood of a deadly deer attack is pretty slim, so Hoosiers live with the annoyance of too many deer more readily than too many wolves!).

By the way, it may be staggering to imagine that whitetails were essentially extinct from Indiana by the early 1900s, and local folks made multi-state trips to hunt them elsewhere as recently as the mid-20th century. Their reintroduction to the state beginning in the 1930s, of course, eventually succeeded with flying colors.

Occasional claims of wolves being shot did crop up from time to time following their official eradication from Indiana.

The Bremen Enquirer newspaper in September 1947 reported that Clark Garrison shot a 75-pound wolf west of Plymouth on his farm near the site of West High School. In Adams County, near Decatur, a 70-pound gray wolf was shot by a farmer in 1940. Two separate articles in the Culver Citizen newspaper described local hunters bagging wolves in the Culver area during the early 1940s (some of these incidents were misidentifications - more on that shortly).

Earlier reports include a 1928 article in the Logansport PharosTribune, which noted that F.C. Eayert shot a wolf near Kewanna, Indiana, in Fulton County. Not to be outdone, a headline in the Indianapolis Star in May 1933, screamed: “Wolf! Wolf! No Idle

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Cry in Indiana; Valparaiso, Noblesville Have Them.” In the Valparaiso area, a male wolf was shot and pups discovered, said the article, while a large gray wolf was seen running across a field near Noblesville.

However, certainly some of the “wolf” reports were rooted in confusion. The photos accompanying the Culver articles, for instance, make it clear that the “wolves” in question were actually coyotes, based on their size and features. Adding to the confusion is that a common colloquialism for coyotes for many years was “prairie wolves,” leading to a number of unintended misstatements. That said, two of the 1940s reports listed the weight of the animals as 75 pounds (near Plymouth) and 70 pounds (near Decatur), which would eliminate coyotes (which max out around 50 pounds) as possibilities.

Such reports, however, died away in succeeding decades, and the most recent confirmed Indiana wolf sighting, for the record, was in 2003, when a single wolf, DNR-tagged from a Wisconsin pack, was found

dead near Fort Wayne, likely a scout sent to reconnoiter territory by its pack. Making a bit more of a recent comeback (even if a very slight one), however, is a predator eradicated from the area long before wolves: the aforementioned black bear. Despite the fact that the official Indiana DNR record on bears in the Hoosier state dates their extirpation as complete by 1850, as late as 1908 a large bear was said to be killing livestock in LaPorte and Starke counties before it was found and killed near Dunn’s Bridge in Jasper County, and reports insisted a bear was killed in Starke County around 1920.

A handful of black bears have been confirmed in Indiana, including Northern Indiana, in recent years, including one who wandered south from Michigan in 2015, passing through the areas of South Bend and Michigan City. That bear was deemed historical by officials as the first one confirmed in the area in 144 years, according to Chicago’s ABC

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affiliate. The 2-year-old, 300-pound bear raided residents’ bird feeders and a local bee keeper’s hives, showing less and less fear of humans before sealing his fate by trying to push his way inside a residence even after its owner shouted at him in hopes of scaring him away. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources captured and humanely euthanized the bear, which had been wandering back and forth between the Indiana and Michigan borders, near Stevensville, Michigan.

In 2021, residents in the Bristol area along Indiana State Road 15 were shocked to learn of a dead black bear, believed to have been killed by a collision with a car. All of this is in addition to several sightings in the past decade in Southern Indiana.

Along similar lines, a migratory mountain lion was stalking parts of Greene County near Bloomfield in 2010 and was reported near

Brazil, Greencastle and Bloomington. It was actually photographed by one of the DNR’s motion-sensitive cameras and was originally thought to have been a tiger escaped from the Exotic Feline Rescue Center in nearby Center Point, Indiana. Mountain lion migration ranges are fairly wide, so its presence is no indication of a permanent recovery of a Hoosier breeding population of the big cats.

And so, while all of the above makes for fascinating historical rumination, it seems safe to say that Hoosiers have little to fear about the widespread return of any of the large carnivores long considered extinct here, even if it’s interesting to speculate or spot the occasional exception here or there.

Jeff Kenney serves as museum and archives manager for Culver Academies in Culver, and serves on the board of the Culver Historical Society.

A Thanksgiving Harvest

The morning dawns with golden light, The air is crisp, the frost is bright.

A time to gather, hand in hand,

And give our thanks across the land.

The fields once bare, now full of grace, Harvested fruits in every place.

Pumpkins plump, and corn in rows, The bounty of the earth still grows.

The table set with care and love, We offer thanks to those above.

For family near, and friends so dear, Our hearts are full this time of year.

The turkey roasts, the pies await,

A feast prepared on every plate.

With laughter, stories shared once more, We open wide the grateful door.

Yet more than food, it’s love we share, A simple joy beyond compare.

A time to pause, to see, to feel,

The blessings that make life so real.

For in this world of endless haste, It’s moments like these we ought not waste. A hug, a smile, a whispered cheer,

Remind us why we all are here.

So let us gather, hearts aglow,

And watch the warmth of kindness grow. On this Thanksgiving, let it be,

A celebration of you and me.

CARING FOR COMMUNITY

WELCOMING NURSE PRACTITIONER KYLA SCHRECK TO KNOX WINAMAC COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Kyla Schreck has recently joined the team at Knox Winamac Community Health Center, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to community-based health care. With over six years of experience as a nurse practitioner, Schreck is passionate about providing personalized care and developing long-term relationships with her patients. “What drew me to Knox Winamac was the chance to truly get to know my patients and the community,” she says. “It’s not just about treating illness, but about understanding people’s lives and helping them navigate their health.”

Schreck’s career began in 2006, working at the front desk of a medical facility, but her desire to work more closely with patients led her to pursue a nursing degree. She worked as a nurse while continuing her education and became a licensed nurse practitioner in 2018. Now at Knox Winamac, she enjoys seeing patients from all walks of life, from children to the elderly, providing everything from preventive care to managing chronic conditions. “I love the full spectrum of care we provide here, from wellness exams to substance-use treatment,” she adds. “You never know what your day will hold, and that keeps it exciting.”

As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Knox Winamac Community Health Center is committed to providing comprehensive care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The clinic operates on a sliding scale based on income, ensuring that financial barriers don’t

Nurse Practitioner Kyla Schreck

prevent people from receiving the care they need. “We’re here for everyone,” Schreck says. “No matter the circumstances, we work to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.”

Schreck works alongside a team of dedicated providers, including Dr. John Bulger and two other nurse practitioners, Roger Farris and Lesley Metts. Together they offer a range of services including primary care, chronic disease management, wellness visits, mental health care, and substance-use treatment. The team is also supported by a licensed clinical social worker, which enhances their ability to address the mental and emotional needs of their patients. “We treat the whole person here,” Schreck says. “If I suspect something outside of my scope like autoimmune issues or cancer, I’ll stay with the patient through the process, making sure they have the support they need to get to a specialist.”

Knox Winamac Community Health Center was founded in 2009 with the mission of providing high-quality, affordable health care to the community. Under the leadership of Executive Director Kathy Robb and Chief Financial Officer Eileen Blanke, the clinic has expanded to provide a full range of care from routine checkups to specialized services. Robb, who has been with the center since 2013, and Blanke, who joined in 2015, describe the clinic as a lifeline for many in the community. “We’re here to make sure people get the care they need, whether they have insurance or not,” says Robb. The center offers

Blanke underscores the importance of the clinic’s sliding fee scale, which allows patients to receive care based on their income level. “We work with patients to ensure that cost isn’t a barrier,” she explains. Both Robb and Blanke take pride in the personal touch their clinic provides, noting that their staff often knows patients by name and takes the time to listen to their concerns. “It’s that compassion and dedication that sets us apart,” says Blanke.

The clinic operates extended hours to accommodate the needs of the community, staying open until 7 p.m. on weekdays and offering Saturday hours as well. “We understand that people have busy lives, and we want to be here when they need us,” Robb adds. They also make an effort to see patients quickly, aiming to schedule appointments within 12 to 48 hours of a patient’s call. Schreck’s role at the clinic has been well-received by both patients

and colleagues. Her expertise in primary care and her dedication to treating patients holistically make her a valued asset to the clinic. Robb and Blanke are thrilled to have her on board, noting her thoroughness, diagnostic skills and commitment to patient care. “She’s a great fit for our team and the community,” Robb says. “She’s very attentive to her patients’ needs and works closely with our staff to ensure they receive comprehensive care.”

Mastering The Beauty!

The clinic’s comprehensive services, compassionate staff and commitment to affordable care make it an invaluable resource for the community. Whether patients need routine checkups, assistance managing chronic conditions, or mental health support, Knox Winamac is there to provide personalized, quality care for all.

Schreck, joining Knox Winamac Community Health Center has been an opportunity to build strong relationships with her patients and make a meaningful impact in the community. The clinic’s mission to provide affordable, high-quality care ensures that no one is left behind. With the support of dedicated providers like Schreck, Farris and Metts, and the leadership of Robb and Blanke, Knox Winamac continues to serve as a vital health care provider in the region.

For more information about Knox Winamac Community Health Center or to schedule an appointment, visit them at 1002 Edgewood Drive in Knox, or call 574-772-6030. Also visit kwchc.net.

Tel: 574-224-6988

Appointment

BATES CORPORATION

A LONG-LASTING LEGACY IN INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER TRACTOR PARTS

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer Jubilee Edgell

Since its inception in 1965, Bates Corporation has evolved into one of North America’s largest and most specialized suppliers of International Harvester (IH) tractor parts. From its early days as a livestock trucking company, it has grown to be a global leader in tractor salvage and parts distribution. Bates Corporation stands as a testament to the

vision and hard work of Jay Bates and his wife, Sue Ann Bates, who laid the foundation for this family-owned and -operated business.

Bates Corporation’s story began when Jay Bates started a livestock trucking business in the mid-1960s. By the late 1970s the company had evolved, shifting from livestock hauling

to salvaging tractor parts, which has been its specialty ever since. It deals exclusively in red tractors, and concentrates on International Harvester, Farmall, and Case IH knowledge and parts.

Now run by Jay and Sue Ann’s identical twin daughters and their husbands, Patricia and

Patti Kitch, Brian Kitch, Terri Barnhart, Kenny Barnhart

Brian Kitch, and Teresa and Kenny Barnhart, the business continues to thrive under their leadership. In the early 2000s the company moved to a larger, climate-controlled facility in Bourbon Industrial Park, to better serve their growing customer base. It expanded again in 2012 with a second warehouse to accommodate their ever-growing inventory of tractor parts.

Bates Corporation specializes in providing new, used and rebuilt parts for International Harvester, Farmall, and Case IH tractors, ranging from early models like the 1939 Farmall H and M series to the more modern Magnum and Maxxum series tractors running today. This extensive focus on parts has allowed Bates Corporation to build a deep well of knowledge, offering unparalleled expertise to their customers.

Their parts inventory is managed through a computer system. This allows customers to refer to a specific part number when making inquiries, helping the Bates team quickly

•

determine their needs. The team then selects packages and efficiently ships the part. While they offer an online ordering website, Bates Corporation knows their customers value personal service. Many still prefer to call and speak directly to sales representatives, enjoying the opportunity to discuss their needs and get advice from experienced staff members.

The company’s ability to supply rare, discontinued parts has made it an essential resource for farmers and the agricultural industry. Having access to thousands of parts no longer available from manufacturers keeps these models running longer than they might otherwise run.

Bates Corporation has a strong presence not only in the U.S., but also globally, reaching customers in over 32 countries, including New Zealand, Australia, France and Sri Lanka. Active farmers and collectors worldwide rely on Bates Corporation to keep their IH tractors running smoothly. Their strategic location next to a UPS hub allows them to provide sameday shipping, a critical service for farmers who can’t afford downtime during busy planting or harvest seasons.

Although Bates Corporation embraces technology with its online presence, it remains committed to offering old-fashioned customer service. Many of its customers prefer calling and speaking directly to a team member who understands the specific needs of farmers. This personal connection is one of many reasons Bates Corporation is a trusted name in the industry.

Beyond their business operations, the family is deeply involved in the local community, supporting the local school, 4-H, and FFA

Foot Pain?

Pulaski Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome Morgan Faanes, DPM, to our Medical and Surgical Group.

As a podiatrist, Dr. Faanes can treat a wide array of foot and ankle ailments, including ingrown toenails, warts, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and many others.

Additionally, Dr. Faanes provides several surgical options and will see patients in our Wound Care Center.

Dr. Faanes is accepting new patients at our Winamac Clinic.

chapter. Since 2010 Bates Corporation has helped host an annual consignment auction for the FFA chapter in the spring, providing both facilities to support the auction and hands-on involvement.

When it comes to their customers, Bates Corporation views farmers as much more than clients. They see them as kindhearted, trustworthy individuals who work tirelessly to feed the world. They have deep respect for the farming community, and recognize the vital role farmers have and the generosity they extend to others.

As a third-generation business, the family is

optimistic about the future. Some of their children are currently in college, and while their paths are yet to be decided, the family hopes they will continue in the agricultural industry, perhaps carrying on the family heritage within Bates Corporation.

In a world where many businesses are consolidating or franchising, Bates Corporation proudly remains independent. They function as a trusted partner to farmers, keeping new and old International Harvester, Farmall and Case IH tractors in service, and providing the parts and expertise needed to maintain them. From the earliest Farmall models to the newer Magnum series, Bates

At its core, Bates Corporation is about more than just tractor parts. It’s about people, community and a deep commitment to agriculture. For decades, the Bates family has been driven by a passion for supporting farmers and helping them thrive. Bates Corporation is continuing the company’s legacy with the same values of hard work, trust and dedication that defined its beginning.

Visit batescorp.com for more info.

Corporation’s dedication ensures farmers can access necessary parts.

FORGING FUTURE HEROES

PLYMOUTH FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINS THE NEXT GENERATION OF FIRST RESPONDERS

Content from Robin Myers edited by Devon Dean

The Plymouth Fire Department’s motto is, “The desire to serve, the courage to act, and the ability to perform.” This motto is being passed on to the next generation of first responders through a two-year program designed for high school juniors and seniors.

Juniors can choose between a firefighters course or a nursing class, while seniors take EMT classes. Throughout the program, juniors receive certifications in hazardous materials, Fire 1, Fire 2, and CPR, while seniors focus on basic emergency medical technician (EMT) certifications. Now in its second year, 16 students are currently

enrolled in the program. Participants are eligible to receive up to 15.5 hours of college credit and a high school grade. Also, upon completion of the two-year class, along with passing all certification testing and a health physical, they can obtain their certification to become an adult firefighter or paramedic. The only cost to students is a

required duty uniform, which includes duty pants and shoes.

“These teenagers should be commended,” said instructor Lieutenant Justyn Wade. “Some are already serving their country and their work ethic is something many adults can’t comprehend.”

Many of the students currently in the program come from families with a tradition

Instructor Lampkins & CTE EMT Class

Instructor Wade & CTE Firefighter Class

North Central Career and Technical Education EMS course offered at Plymouth High School.

of service, inspiring their commitment. “My cousin, aunt and uncle are EMTs, so I plan on being an EMT for the rest of my life,” said Vincent Prater, a student at Triton High School.

Others are driven by their parents’ careers and experiences. “I’m inspired by my dad,” said Blaze Sheaks, a student at John Glenn High School in Walkerton. “He’s been in the Navy, on submarines, for 11 years. That has been a positive influence on me, and I want to push that as far as I can. On a sub, you have to learn to fight fires differently.”

“I missed the first few classes because I’m already in the National Guard,” said Lucas Mann, from Culver. “I want to do something different and help people. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in life, so I thought it might be cool to be a firefighter, to go into burning buildings and save lives.”

All 10 instructors bring a wealth of experience to the program, with two enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and Indiana National Guard. These young people have much in common, including a strong desire to give back to their communities.

This program is more than just a class; it’s a pathway for young individuals eager to serve their communities and make a difference in people’s lives.

For more information about the program or to enroll your high school student, contact the Plymouth Fire Department at 574-936-2156.

The Plymouth Fire Department is proud to recognize the 16 dedicated students of CTE Fire/Rescue Class 24-02.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NOVEMBER AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2024

Submit Your Events!

KOONTZ LAKE/WALKERTON/ GROVERTOWN

ALL Times Listed Are Central Time

Every Monday BINGO

Doors open at 5p, early bird starts at 6p, and regular games start at 6:30p at the Koontz Lake Association Community building.

Every Thursday FARMERS MARKET

4p - 6p, New Kitchen Store Farmers Market. Please visit our online store and don’t forget to like us on Facebook! @NewKitchenStore

KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse is the third Tuesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public and start at 6:30p. Come and join us and find out how you can volunteer in the community. You can also find out what is going on around Koontz Lake.

Koontz Lake Lions monthly meeting is the third Thursday of the month at 6p at the KLSD building located at 10625 Prairie Avenue.

4p-7p or until sold out - Tyner Odd Fellows Fish Fry at Walkerton Elementary School located at 805 Washington Street in Walkerton.

6p - Koontz Lake Conservancy District Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 East Prairie Avenue in Koontz Lake. Interested parties may join remotely by calling 240-591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted.

1p - KLA Community Thanksgiving Dinner. The dinner will be held at the clubhouse at 10896 East Cherokee in Walkerton.

5p DEADLINE - KLA is looking for people to nominate needy families for gift cards for the holidays. Please call Karen Johnson at 574-780-1712 or Rhonda Hurford at 574-250-1835 to make a nomination. Please make the nomination by November 19 at 5p

9a-6p - New Kitchen Store’s annual open house with food tasting, prizes and much more, located at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton.

Dec. 7

KLA Christmas Tree decorating and lighting with Santa and hot chocolate.

BREMEN/LAKE OF THE WOODS

ALL Times Listed Are Eastern Time

9a-6p - New Kitchen Store’s annual open house with foo

LAKE MAXINKUCKEE/CULVER/ MARSHALL COUNTY

ALL Times Listed Are Eastern Time

By the Lake Holiday Bazaar

6p - Vino and Vinyasa at the Beach Lodge

9a - Culver Turkey Trot

10:30a - Community Yoga at the Beach Lodge

6p-8p - Town of Argon Annual Hometown Christmas Cheer. Santa and Mrs. Clause will be there for caroling, kids holiday crafts, tree lighting, hot chocolate and more in downtown Argos.

Dec. 6 & 7

Culver Holiday Weekend