The Lakes West Magazine May 2023

FOUNDER/CEO

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photography Provided

Don’t think that green drinks are only a Saint Patrick’s Day thing.

In Marshall County, Green Drinks is an organized gathering of environmentally minded folks who get together quarterly to educate and communicate about saving the planet - or at least their area of the planet.

Marshall County Green Drinks is organized by the Recycle Depot, part of the county’s Solid Waste Management District. One of the purposes of the Recycle Depot is education, into which the Green Drinks idea fits.

“Our whole mission revolves around preserving and protecting the environment,” says Environmental Education Coordinator River Watson.

While many of the programs delivered

at the Recycle Depot are educational, these programs are focused mainly on youth. Green Drinks is a way to continue the focus on education, but for adults in a casual environment that allows the enjoyment of an adult beverage.

The Green Drinks concept is not exclusive to Marshall County. There are other organized chapters of Green Drinks, including South Bend and Goshen.

Recycle Depot Executive Director

Marianne Peters took the Green Drinks idea and adapted it into her program. Instead of meeting monthly, Marshall County meets about four times per year, and the primary function revolves around shining a light on the environmental efforts of others in the community.

“There are not many opportunities for people to come to the table and talk,” Peters says. “It’s really nice when you get to know people who have similar interests.”

John Schramm, left, Tim Peters, right

Green Drinks does that and more. Guest speakers are scheduled for each meeting. In the past, speakers have included many who are involved in sustainability, water quality and other environmental programs. In 2023, guest speakers included Jill Houin from Homestead Dairy.

Green Drinks is nonpolitical, Peters says. It is always education-focused, and highlights the work people are doing to preserve and protect the natural resources in Marshall County.

In August, Marshall County Green Drinks will travel to Culver for the next Green Drinks gathering. Debbie Palmer will talk about the Lake Maxinkuckee Environmental Fund’s water testing efforts.

When someone speaks at a Marshall County Green Drinks event, they become a resource for those in the community who are interested in the topic, Watson says.

“We talk about what’s going on, what’s on topic and what’s relevant to Marshall County,” he says. “People who may be new to what sustainability means can come and learn about it. People here are welcoming.”

The meetings are open to all. There is no fee to attend.

On average, about 15 to 20 people regularly attend the meetings. It is casual and the venue moves around the county to various locations, including local eating or drinking establishments and the

REES theater.

It is an opportunity to learn from people who are working on environmental issues that affect neighborhoods, Peters says. It’s also a way to talk with others who share similar ideas and concerns about the environment.

“We all love Marshall County,” Peters says. “I want to help preserve the resource we have now. That was one of my reasons for starting [Green Drinks] here. It’s positive and hopeful about making changes in the environment.”

Attending a Marshall County Green Drinks event can also provide a sense of belonging, Watson says.

“It shows people that everyday, normal people choose to be sustainable,” he says. For more information, email Peters at mpeters@myrecycledepot.org, or call 574935-8618. Also visit myrecycledepot.org.

transmission. When yours needs service or repair, a trip to KB Transmission & Auto in Knox will be worth your while-- they can get you up and running and back on the road. Once there, you can be rest assured that the job will be done right, expeditiously, and with the highest quality.

ROAD READY

Torque converter. Clutch. Planetary gears. If these are the dominant terms in a conversation

that you’re having, then chances are you aren’t discussing who has the best burgers or fries in town. These are just some of the parts that comprise one of the most important and usually reliable components of your car--the

The advancements in the automotive industry as of late have made today’s vehicles some of the greatest wonders on the planet. Features like steering assist, crash detection and backup cameras are now becoming standard features. With that in mind, the automatic transmission has been around for close to 100 years and still remains a thing to behold. Looking inside, you will find gears, clutches, hydraulic fluid, a pump and a myriad of moving parts. A knowledge of mechanics and hydraulics is essential to understand the operation and repair of the automatic transmission.

So, how does this marvel of engineering work? In a nutshell, the transmission is a

Writer / Mike Dikos

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Kole Bernat - Owner

middleman, engaging and disengaging your car’s engine from its wheels. The transmission allows your car to idle, accelerate and maintain a consistent speed.

Occasionally, problems arise with anything that is of a mechanical nature. The technological advancements of today’s vehicles make life difficult for the backyard mechanic-the person who likes to tinker--and for the notso-mechanically inclined, nearly impossible. To counter these challenges, knowledge and experience are required, and KB Transmission has an abundance of both.

With several years of experience, along with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, one can be confident that owner Kole Bernat and his crew will inspect, troubleshoot and repair your car’s transmission to get you back on the road in a timely manner. Their primary focus is on domestic made autos and light trucks that have automatic transmissions and rear wheel drive.

However, if your car needs repair and is equipped differently, such as having a manual transmission, commonly known as stick shift, they can give you a diagnosis of the problem as well.

With all the complexities involved in the repair of an automatic transmission, one can understand that certain logistics are needed to complete such a mechanical endeavor. To accomplish the job properly and to combat obstacles that arise, their shop is furnished with the necessary machinery, tools and equipment used in the various stages of inspection, repair and assembly. Parts needed are usually readily available, but should the need arise, those that aren’t can be special ordered.

As with many things in life, such as your health or your home, one can also ward off future problems with their vehicle before they arise just by planning ahead.

“The ideal situation would be to set up a

preventive maintenance program involving the changing of your car’s transmission fluid and filters on a yearly basis,” Kole Bernat says. Such a plan can put your mind at ease, keep your car running properly, and prevent trouble before it happens.”

Yes, prevention is still the best medicine.

Besides providing the best care for your automobile when it’s needed, KB Transmission also provides care for the environment. Used fluids and other waste by-products are disposed of properly.

If the need does arise, KB Transmission & Auto is located at 3880 E 275 S in Knox and the shop can be reached at 574-772-3371.

Winamac, IN

FIND THE PERFECT ARRANGEMENT AT MAIN STREET FLORAL & GIFTS

When your dream comes true, like Main Street Floral & Gifts Owner Jennifer Jordan’s has, you try to help others out with their dreams. That’s exactly what Jordan tries to do at her shop in North Judson, whether that dream is fulfilling a floral order or supporting other women-owned businesses.

Jordan has owned her floral shop since 2003. When she was in high school in North Judson, she knew she wanted to own a business one day, although she wasn’t sure what type of business it would be. She thought she might be a fashion designer, but when she spent time working in floral design, she realized she had a talent for it.

Jordan says she does her best to listen and interpret what every customer is asking for. That personal touch has made her successful, and also accounts for the

many returning customers for whom she has designed floral arrangements. That personal touch could include a favorite flower, a favorite color or a nod to a favorite hobby. These details are important, especially when it comes to floral arrangements for important life events like funerals and weddings.

“I spend a lot of time with the customer so I can give it that personal touch,” she says.

She also takes to heart what her father told her years ago about ensuring quality.

“If I am not proud to say I made it, it won’t come out of my shop,” she says.

Jordan is versatile when it comes to satisfying her customers’ requests. She can add extra elements to an arrangement, from angel wings to balloons. She has also designed and installed flower walls at weddings, and even provided flowers to

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

float down a creek.

“I’ve even hidden an engagement ring inside a rose,” she says.

Valentine’s Day is the busiest day of the year at Main Street Floral. More than

200 Valentine’s Day flowers are typically ordered on that day. Roses are by far the most popular but mixed bouquets are also in demand.

Mother’s Day is another busy time of the year, with sales lasting throughout

the week before the second Sunday in May. In addition to the usual roses and floral arrangements filled with spring and summer flowers, hanging baskets are also a popular gift that Jordan stocks in her shop for that time of the year.

During other times of the year, Jordan is busy making holiday wreaths and simply providing her customers with thoughtful gifts for special occasions.

“I’ve been doing this for 34 years,” she says. “Flowers make people happy. A lot of people won’t buy flowers for themselves and to get flowers from someone is a special gift. You can’t mess up giving flowers. Flowers are happy.”

But it’s not just flowers at Main Street Floral. The gift shop offers many unique products that can be purchased separately or added to a floral arrangement. Candles, baskets, ceramic angels, Afghans and chocolates, among other items, are provided by other local small-business owners, many of whom are women entrepreneurs like herself.

When flowers are given as a gift, Jordan has a few suggestions on how to keep that gift thriving longer.

“Put fresh water into the vase every couple of days,” she says. “Crushed aspirin in the vase really does make the flowers last longer.

Keep the flowers out of the sun. It causes them to die out quicker and open up faster.”

When deciding on floral arrangements for a wedding, Jordan suggests making sure to work within a budget and know what to spend. Wedding colors and even a bride’s favorite flower should also be known before choosing the floral arrangements.

For a funeral arrangement, it’s important to think about what was important to the person being memorialized, Jordan says.

“When you think of that person, consider what comes to mind first,” she says.

Main Street Floral & Gifts is located at 119 North Main Street in North Judson. Call Jordan at 574-896-5797 or email her at mainstreetfloral119@gmail.com. Find out more by visiting northjudsonflowers. com, or find them on social media.

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Smoked to Perfection

Smo’que Break in Rochester Is Fast Becoming a Savory Success

Through his own admission and recollection, Brett Lukens has literally grown up in the restaurant business.

Having lived his entire life in north-central Indiana, he also understands the unique sense of Midwestern camaraderie, the open and genial candor of folks when gathered together. And he certainly knows that the beauty and bounty of a wellcrafted, sumptuous meal spread can tie an event together unlike anything else.

Now he is poised to forge full-steam ahead with one of his latest culinary ventures, which he calls Smo’que Break. The Rochester-based business is geared up and ready to give customers a taste of savory, saucy barbecued meats, all

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Brett & Erica Lukens

“We love starting fires, smoking meat, and slinging ‘que.”

- Brett Lukens

prepared and primed in-house.

“It’s a culmination of the last eight, nine years,” Lukens says. “We’ve always had a barbecue identity and I’ve always thought that Rochester needed a good barbecue place.”

Located in the former Slappy’s Rib Shack, one of the more whimsical, albeit genuine taglines for the business is, “We love starting fires, smoking meat, and slinging ‘que.”

Hence the clever name, and it’s quite a long

way from Lukens’s younger years, spent washing dishes for his uncle, who managed a string of Pizza King eateries.

Presently, Smo’que Break features a line of meats and side dishes available through catering. However, for those who would like a dining experience in a traditional restaurant setting, the meats can also be ordered at The Dam Landing on Lake Manitou, as well as Lake Max Beach Bar in Culver, along the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee.

Lukens has observed that the most popular

selection, and what Smo’que Break has a rapidly rising following for, is their take on brisket. Their barbecue is available in several variations of regional flair such as Texas, St. Louis and Memphis, along with ribs, smoked turkey and other choices.

Lukens also takes pride in crafting all of the rubs and sauces that are incorporated into the smoking process. Furthermore, he knew that it would be equally important to bring that same level of exquisite, careful preparation into their additional menu items as well. “We knew that we wanted to have good, fresh sides,” he says. Among the toptier selections that have become customer favorites are the kale Caesar salad and the roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon jam.

Like so many others who work with the public in the retail sectors, Lukens has seen firsthand how COVID and the subsequent lockdown resulted in a sense of isolation and reduction in patronage for casual dining. And while Smo’que Break is striving

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to become a formidable force in catering and beyond, Lukens is just as devoted to volunteering in the civic realm, lending his time and talents to worthwhile causes, and helping folks reconnect and strengthen community bonds. One of his recent missions was a fundraising event for The Times Theater, where guests could savor the many flavors of Smo’que Break while watching a retro double feature of “Porky’s” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House.”

Lukens is very quick to observe that the recent surge of success would never have been possible without a dedicated group of friends and their collective support, including Josh Phillips, Dave Swanson, Trey Voan and Travis Thompson.

Smo’que Break is situated at 614 East 9th Street in Rochester. They can be found on Facebook, and reached via email at ghostcatering@gmail.com. Customers may call 574-223-7427 for more info.

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Rock Solid

NORTH STAR STONE ADDS STYLE AND VALUE TO EVERY PROJECT

Eric Snyder slides into a booth and orders a cup of coffee, while meeting with an inquisitive writer who wants to hear the tale of how North Star Stone, Inc. came to be.

While chatting, Snyder is amiable and

speaks with cool composure, even when he has sufficient reason to shout gleefully from every rooftop. Business is on the upswing, and the future looks exciting and brimming with promise. Success has come about through four generations of hard work and heritage, which is a testament to a traditional entrepreneurial model.

However, Snyder will tell you that establishing a rapport with prospective clients seeking fine, custom masonry work does not involve being a salesman. In fact, he’s been known to tell his staff, “If you want to treat people like a salesperson, I will fire you.”

“We choose to be honest,” he says. “We’re basically a bunch of country guys who

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Caitlyn Smeltzer, Todd Snyder, Eric Snyder, JT Snyder, John Holt L to R Front: Ciara Partin, Lisa Peschel-Peters, Ron Michaels

want to be treated with the same respect we grew up with.” Additionally, Snyder and staff believe the customer’s needs and ideas always come first. “I don’t want anyone leaving here 90% happy,” he says. “I want them to leave 100% happy.”

North Star Stone has been a regional frontrunner in stone construction since 2001, and Snyder became the owner in 2022. It’s an admirable trajectory from his days as something of an amateur, working alongside a pair of hobbyist friends who were creating stonework using molds and a hand mixer. “My brother, father and I started out laying their stone,” he says.

“From the beginning, we were there.” The company works with commercial contractors, homeowners and virtually anyone in between, with a coverage area throughout northern Indiana and southern Michigan. Some of the most high-profile and enduring projects include various chain restaurants, such

as Olive Garden, Culver’s, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. They have also worked on apartment complexes and stonework landscaping at several local golf courses.

For residential services, homeowners can visit the showroom in Valparaiso. Currently, there are plans to unveil a second showroom in the Cedar Lake region. North Star Stone works directly with contractors for whatever level of expertise is needed, from initial consultations to job site visits, all while ensuring that the customer has the ultimate say in materials and design. The company offers 17 styles in any color, all of which can be incorporated into a wide range of configurations. Another advantage the company has lies in the fact that the materials and formulations of the stone are completed entirely in-house at their central Valparaiso location. The material is created from recycled aggregate, combined with Portland cement and enhanced with iron

oxide for a natural range of hues, which results in a product of durable build and low-maintenance texture. Having the capability to create their own stone is a tremendous incentive for contractors, particularly during a time when construction is often hindered by delays in material shipping and delivery. North Star Stone can provide those supplies directly to the consumer.

“Most of the people that supply stone had to wait eight weeks or so,” Snyder says.

“We can turn it around in a day or so.” As a result, he notes, North Star Stone has had a substantial influx of business in the past decade.

When not working, Snyder is extremely involved in community pursuits, particularly sports. His greatest athletic passion is baseball, and he is always fully invested in related activities with his wife and children. His son, J.T., works in sales

for North Star Stone, rising up through the ranks much like his father. Having that sense of sportsmanship gives Snyder and his staff a keen sense of team play,

and their customers are very much a part of that winning combination. So much so, in fact, that their official website, ourstonehome.com, reflects that spirit.

North Star Stone, Inc. is located at 325 North 325 East in Valparaiso. They can be reached via phone at 219-464-7272, or by email at info@ourstonehome.com.

Alejandro Chavez, Steve Finley, Ryan Marron, Mychal Ferrell, Zach Carbone, Anthony Segovia, Joe Kabelis

PLANTING

As a child, I despised weeding the garden. It was hot, dirty, and often had lots of bugs and spiders. It seemed like a never-ending task, fighting against nature, weeds and roots constantly. Then once the soil was clear and fertilized, and seeds planted, it felt like forever before anything happened.

As a little girl I can recall wondering why my grandmother was watering dirt. I couldn’t see what was happening. I couldn’t see the growth. But underneath the ground that little seed was growing, eventually bursting from the soil and sprouting into a seedling with a few leaves and a stem. That seedling seems so delicate, so fragile. Sometimes she would tie small stakes around it to keep it upright, or use wires to keep animals away. Then after some time, with water and sunlight that seedling blossoms and can become a flower, or maybe distinct fruits and vegetables begin to appear, as if from magic. As a child, this was hard to grasp at the time - that something so small and seemingly insignificant could grow into something so extraordinary.

As an adult, I can still marvel at the miracle of gardening and planting seeds, and while I don’t enjoy weeding, it doesn’t bother me as much as it did when I was a child (except for the spiders, of course). I play

Writer / Abby Renz Photography Provided

music, wear my overalls, and enjoy the sunshine and the beauty of nature.

It has also become a wonderful way for me to spend time with my grandmother and continue learning from her, while helping her to still enjoy having a garden and share the harvest until I have a garden of my own. I have found, through becoming an adult, that many previously dreaded tasks aren’t as bad as I remembered them. I used to drag my feet, ever the sassy teen, not wanting to weed and plant and roast in the sun for the summer. Now, I voluntarily go to my grandmother’s place on my day off to help with her garden, with a smile on my face, happy to play in the dirt. Not only can I appreciate the labor that goes into gardening, but I can also enjoy the harvest when cooking for my own family and the memories I make with my grandmother.

Too often we spend our summers indoors, in front of air conditioning and a screen, and miss out on the beauty of the outside world. Yes, it does get hot in Indiana. It can be miserable. But it is what you make it, and if you choose to make the most of where you live, you can enjoy it and find fulfillment in making your environment more desirable. Add flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, set up bird feeders, make a little reading nook with a bench, or add a pond.

Not only does planting your own garden benefit your health, but it also saves money from buying produce at stores. To be honest, such produce isn’t always the best, and with harmful ingredients and pesticides added, it can become a real scare for families trying to keep their children healthy. Speaking of which, children can benefit from helping to plant seeds and care for them, understanding where some of their food comes from, and having a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Whether you have a small garden with only a few flowers and herbs or a large garden with crops, you are taking charge of your health and what goes into your land and into your body. Here at New Kitchen Store, not only can you order seeds, but you can also find the perfect items for your kitchen to make your house feel like home.

New Kitchen Store is located at 330 Liberty Street in Walkerton. For more info, call 574-586-2745 or visit newkitchenstore.com.

Sensible Supplies

Dream’n Acres Prides

Itself on Non-GMO Animal Feeds Among Other Farm Necessities

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Photography Provided

On a recent weekday morning in the Nappanee countryside, the promise of spring is in the air. Hints of color are popping in the trees and through the fields, and a perfect sunrise adds a pastel-tinted glow to a cloudless blue sky.

Meanwhile, Vernon Borkholder is already the embodiment of the “rise and shine” philosophy. At his family enterprise,

known as Dream’n Acres, even when the day is just beginning, there are situations that demand his attention. Even so, he moves seamlessly from one task to the next, all with a finely honed sense of knowledge for his profession, which spans nearly 22 years. The one constant throughout is Borkholder’s commitment to the practice and sale of non-GMO feeds for farm animals.

The humble origins that led to Dream’n Acres dates back to 2001, when Borkholder was first engaged in selling dewormers and horse minerals.

Just a few years later, Borkholder married his bride, Rachel, and in 2008 the couple purchased a small lot near Rentown and expanded their business to include horse feed, liniments and other products. In 2013 the Borkholders moved to their current location near Nappanee.

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Their farmstead is humming with activity, with a thriving dairy operation, along with a new distribution center for the sales and repair of fencing, plus a broader spectrum of inventory for animal nutrition and minor health afflictions.

“We’ve grown the store slow,” Borkholder explains with a smile. “The non-GMO feeds have been a hit. The lifestyle is more my cup of tea. I really want to get it out there that all of our animal feeds are non-GMO.” This is part of what he calls an “elite nutrition” regimen. That includes a full and diverse line of feeds, supplements and minerals that can be incorporated into an animal’s diet. There are also specialty formulas that can aid with gut issues, and other digestive woes or vitamin deficiencies. Dogs, cats, sheep, goats, hogs, chickens, cows, horses - if it’s an animal that can roam a farm, Dream’n Acres is almost certain to have products in stock for it. They will also work with their customers to provide delivery services, free for local buyers. Others from a longer distance are invited to call for delivery info and to obtain rates.

The introduction of fencing to the business is something that, while relatively new, has been a welcome addition to Dream’n Acres. As the success has grown, so has the Borkholder family, which now includes eight children.

Several of the older children assist with the daily execution of the business, including the eldest daughter who takes on clerical tasks, while a few of the adolescents handle various errands around the property. “We used to have maybe three customers a week, and now

we have 10 or so a day,” Borkholder says.

Late in the month of April, prospective customers will have the perfect chance to pay a visit to Dream’n Acres to see everything that the business encompasses. There will be an open house on April 27 and 28 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and on April 29 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Discounts, special sales and closeout items will be stocked for perusal, and guests will be able to sample free refreshments, enter for a chance to win door prizes, and receive news regarding upcoming sales. Those who spend a minimum of $150 will also receive a complimentary door prize.

To stop by Dream’n Acres, head over to 401 2B Road on the far western edge of Nappanee, south of the railroad tracks. To learn more or to make inquiries, call 574-773-0090.

ANCHORED BY EXCELLENCE

SandShark Anchor Products Give Boaters and Beachgoers Peace of Mind

designed anchoring systems and anchor accessories for boats.

stand, or at least make the attempt. “When we would get to the stand, we could see our boat coming unanchored and crashing to the shore,” the Mattixes recount on the business’s website.

To solve this problem, Duane designed an effective anchor for shallow water, beaches and sandbars. The anchoring system allows boaters to enjoy their time on the water without worrying about their anchor coming loose. The anchor drills into the ground using a screw auger.

Necessity, it is said, is the mother of invention. That adage seems to be true as it applies to SandShark Anchor in Plymouth. This family-owned and -operated business was established in 2009 by Duane and Susan Mattix, and features specially

As Marshall County natives, the Mattixes spent many enjoyable weekends on Lake Maxinkuckee in Culver, boating or simply enjoying the sandbar and the beach. One favorite pursuit was to anchor their boat at the beach and cross the road to the root beer

“Once drilled in, water holds down the sand and creates a suction to prevent the anchor from pulling out,” he says. “It gives tremendous holding power and gives you peace of mind.”

He named the product SandShark because, as he says, “there’s nothing stronger in the water than a shark’s bite. Metal made the shaft strong. We designed our anchors to

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Left to Right Brandon Mattix- Product Research Development/Marketing and Shop Manager Andy Smith-Ebay/Social Media Marketing and General Manager. Duane Mattix-Owner/CEO Derek MattixSocial Media/Internet Marketing Specialist Mike Sayer-Former Internet Ma

not break off in the water.”

The Mattixes say there were challenges with starting a business based on the need to find a better way to anchor their boat. Building customer awareness was one issue, and designing innovative products while also keeping the cost down for consumers was another.

With the addition of engineer and jet-ski enthusiast Jeff Steininger to the company in 2016, SandShark Anchor has continued to grow. Steininger became a third partner in 2018. Their product line has expanded, as the company continues to design and refine new and effective marine products.

“We wanted to bring out products that would not only complement the anchors, but be the same high-quality products as the anchors,” Duane says. “We found over time that auger-style anchors work exceptionally well with a bungee line.”

Duane Mattix-Owner/CEO & Susan Mattix-Owner/COO

The effective pairing of the SandShark anchor with a bungee line works because the bungee line breaks the wave to put less pressure on your anchor and your boat. The buoy was designed to mark the anchor’s location, so it can be found easily and so boaters can easily spot the anchor’s position. “Over time we have added other boating accessories to make the time out on the water a great one,” Duane says.

SandShark sells all the necessary anchoring supplies such as dock lines, bungee lines, carabiner clips, buoys, and other accessories not reliant on owning a watercraft, such as dry bags, waterproof phone cases, boat erasers, snorkel masks and emergency air horns.

Last year the Premium Boat Fender was added, and a deepwater anchor has also been developed and is part of the SandShark family of products. It is an all-aluminum, retractable, fluke-style anchor.

Regular Hours: Thurs-Fri-Sat 10am-4pm

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

“Our priorities are making high-quality products that protect people’s investments, not only of their boat, but of their time,” Susan says. “No one wants their day ruined by worrying about their boat floating away.” Their customer-service philosophy is simply to provide their customers with a

quality product and overall satisfaction.

“We take care of customer service in-house,” Duane says. “SandShark Anchor strives to take the time needed to understand the needs of each unique customer and meet their expectations.”

SandShark products are available online at sandsharkanchor.com, through eBay, Amazon and Walmart, and at select marinas in the Midwest. The owners caution that some of their products are bought and sold independently online. Buying directly from a SandShark store will guarantee quality and warranty, Duane says.

In addition to Duane and Susan, the couple’s sons, Brandon and Derek, also work for the company. Andy Smith and Kathy Koontz are Susan’s cousins, and are also part of the SandShark team.

“We are very blessed to have had consistent growth over the last many years,” Susan says. “We give God the credit for that.”

To find out more about these products, visit the official website, call 574-203-2377 or email support@sandsharkanchor.com. You can also follow the company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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JAG’S COUNTRY DELIGHTS OFFERS HIGH QUALITY TOMATOES

Jeff and Amy Jagnecki, co-owners of Jag’s Country Delights, 10241 King Road, Plymouth, Indiana, say their business started out as an enjoyable hobby that has served them well.

“We started saving seeds some 20 years ago, and started our own plants,” Jeff Jagnecki says. “In the saving seeds effort, I discovered a tomato called a Trophy Tomato. I grew it, and when I tried my first bite of the first tomato from this plant, I was blown away with its flavor and have never grown a hybrid tomato since.”

The Jagneckis love for fresh vegetables eventually led them to share their plants.

“We always ended up with more plants than what we needed from all of our starts, so we would give them to our family and friends,” he says. “Our family and friends loved how our plants turned out and

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

kept encouraging us to start selling them to the general public. So, after using a makeshift display stand and a simple sign at the end of the road, we started to sell our plants. One thing led to another, and we found that we had to go legit.”

So, they created Jag’s Country Delights. “We started with one greenhouse, and we built a second one at the end of last year,” Jeff says. “We are currently pursuing the idea of some added means and methods

that will allow us to venture into the organic produce market. This will help us serve our community with not only quality plants, but also quality fresh produce.”

Amy Jagnecki says their greenhouse set up is simple.

“The original greenhouse will be used to house all the pepper plants,” Amy says. “I’m already calling it ‘The Pepper Hut’

since we have built the new one. It is intended for our abundant overflow of heirloom vegetable plants that we offer in the spring.”

Jeff added that they can now house their 42+ varieties of heirloom tomato plants along with other heirloom veggie plants to protect them from a late freeze and hard frost.

“We finally took down our temporary

Jeff and Amy Jagnecki

structure that aided in winning our continuing fight with mother nature,” Jeff says.

Jag’s Country Delights does not currently offer much in other plants and does not offer flowers.

“We may offer sweet potato slips, strawberry starts and onion starts and other bare root stocks when available,” Jeff says. “We do, however, offer up a

large variety of garden seeds such as green beans, multiple squash, dry pole and bush beans, ornamental corn, lettuce, radish and so on.”

The heirloom vegetable plants at Jag’s Country Delights

“We are proud to say that we offer up probably the largest and widest range of heirloom vegetable plants in the region,” Jeff says. “We have over 42 varieties

of tomatoes and pepper plants among many varieties of other heirloom plants including the seeds. We have tomatoes from the size of currents to beef steak. The German pink is my favorite BLT making tomato!”

Jag’s also offers a wide range of peppers from the super sweet to the peppers that Jeff says, “will melt the face of your skull.” He added that he’s kidding.

“We actually have warning signs up for them,” Jeff says. “We have the socalled world’s hottest pepper called the ‘Carolina Reaper,’ but we also have the ‘Dragons Breath Pepper.’ Amy really does an awesome job of researching and selecting new varieties of heirloom vegetable from different regions of the United States, and including other countries throughout the world, that will work in our northern Indiana climate. It truly is amazing.”

Amy and Jeff tell all their customers to tell others that if they want to have a vegetable garden, to please tell them to come to Jag’s Country Delights.

“We also let them know where to go for other plants and flowers,” Amy says.

Jag’s Country Delights typically opens on Mother’s Day weekend and shuts down by Father’s Day.

“We are open during this period from 9 a.m., to 6 p.m., throughout the entire week,” Jeff says. “We put up simple black and white yard signs that we take down at the end of season to help signal that we are closed for the season. However, if our endeavors work out on the production of produce, we may have to consider other means of letting everyone know we will be open throughout the entire growing season.”

Jeff and Amy also offer gardening tips. “While we are open, we don’t limit ourselves to just selling the products that we produce from the seed to the tomato plants we offer,” Jeff says. “We also offer gardening tips and advice from our experiences throughout the years. We do this so that others do not have to fail but succeed with their garden.”

Amy and Jeff have pointers regarding bad bugs and good bugs in a homeowner’s

garden, along with some pest control ideas.

“We have found ourselves speaking with our customers for a long bit of time as if we are long lost friends,” Jeff says. “We usually have music going in the background, and maybe I have our smoker working on creating a great dinner, while I’m working our garden. Meanwhile, Amy is tending to our customers. I will at times go over what I’m planting, and why I’m planting it the way I am with customers. It’s like a mini tour of our one-acre garden.”

Check out Jag’s Country Delights, 10241 King Road, Plymouth, Indiana, to peruse everything they have to offer, or call (574) 540-3048, or check out their Facebook page.

WINE WONDERS A Sensational Experience Awaits at Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant

There is an appeal in enjoying a glass of wine, on a patio overlooking a vineyard, or while enjoying a delicious meal in a restaurant with impeccable service. There’s no need to travel to Italy or France for that experience, when a drive across the state line to Michigan can transport you there.

Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant is in Buchanan, Michigan. Part of Moersch Hospitality Group and one of six properties that make up the Sip & Savor Wine Trail, Tabor Hill has been perfecting the art of winemaking for more than 50 years.

“Between all of our sister properties, Round Barn Winery & Estate, Free Run Cellars, and Round Barn Brewery & Public House, we have created our own Sip & Savor Wine Trail,” says Owner and CEO Matthew Moersch. “We invite guests to discover the flavors of southwest Michigan. There is something for everyone between all six properties and their unique offerings. From fresh brews to artisan wines to handcrafted spirits, there is always something new to try along the trail.”

Tabor Hill is a homecoming of sorts for Moersch. In 1979, founder Rick Moersch got his start as a winemaker. After developing winemaking expertise and establishing other wineries and vineyards, Moersch Hospitality Group purchased Tabor Hill in 2017. The Tabor Hill brand now includes the winery, restaurant and wedding venue.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

“Whether you are looking to join us for a tasting or to settle into the restaurant and indulge in a meal expertly paired with our award-winning wines, watching the sunset over the vineyard, we promise visiting us is an experience like no other,” Moersch says.

Tabor Hill offers 30 different varieties of wines, including multiple selections of demi-secs, cabernet Franc, albariño and chardonnay. Each of these has unique

properties and characteristics that have a fan base of their own, and are crafted from grape varieties encompassing the sweetest whites to the driest reds.

The bestsellers and fan favorites are the demi-sec varieties, Moersch says. He describes these as ranging from “fruitforward flavors of the Blueberry Demi-Sec to the light and bubbly Sparkling Demi-Sec. There is truly one for every occasion.”

The staff pick for a dry red wine is the Cabernet Franc. It is aged in oak for 20 months, which shows up in aromas of coconut and leather, Moersch says. “At 0% residual sugar, this dry wine also sports a medium body and smooth tannins. Mild green-pepper flavors are balanced by notes of raspberry and strawberry.

Next are the albariño varieties, which boast light, tropical aromas with hints of grapefruit and cantaloupe. These are fermented and aged in stainless steel,

resulting in a dry white wine with a mildpalate tannin and crisp acidity on the finish, Moersch says.

The chardonnay selections are noteworthy for their aromas of honeydew melon and baked apple, with a hint of Medjool date, almond butter, toasted oak and vanilla. “Our chardonnay is soft and full-bodied with a long, creamy finish, making it the perfect all-season sipper,” Moersch says.

“Joining us for a wine tasting is the perfect way to sit back, relax and let us do the uncorking for you, all while having an expert on hand to answer any questions you may have,” he says.

Several Tabor Hill wines have earned awards at local, regional and national competitions. A tasting allows guests to sample a variety of wines of their own choosing or from one of the winery’s preselected flights.

“Our Lake Michigan shore winery was designed with every kind of wine lover in mind,” Moersch says. “With our expert tasting consultants on hand, indulging in one of our 30 varieties has never been easier.”

In addition to the opportunities to wine and dine at Tabor Hill, guests can experience themed events such as guided wine tastings, specialty lunches, and dinners hosted at the restaurant. Tabor Hill also hosts private events and weddings at both the restaurant and the grounds of the vineyard.

Guests can also explore the Mt. Tabor Trails, a 3.5-mile excursion that loops through woods and vineyards. To take the winery experience to the next level, Tabor Hill offers guests a sip-and-stay option at several sites that offer accommodations.

Tabor Hill is open year-round for wine tastings and restaurant service, with the

busiest times from May through October. The winery and restaurant are located at 185 Mount Tabor Road in Buchanan, Michigan. For more information, visit taborhill.com or call 269-422-1161. Sign up for the mailing list or follow Tabor Hill on social media.

(574) 772-5784

249-1336

(574) 772-5784

When Bradly Bickle broke the Rochester High School record in a six-dive meet held during senior night in February of 2022, it was not only the outcome of hours of practice, but also the result of conquering self-doubt and fear. These days he attends Ivy Tech in Kokomo, but remains involved by helping to coach his former team. He hopes to aid other divers by sharing the lessons he learned.

“Diving is such a mental sport,” Bickle says. “You are battling yourself, and the biggest hurdle is tackling your state of mind and your fear. The issue is believing in yourself.”

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Bickle’s story is also about friendship. He still holds the record he broke, which was set in 2021 by his friend and teammate Kadin Kelly. Through the years the two encouraged and cheered each other on, and Kelly currently holds the school’s 11dive record.

“Some divers come to the sport after being trained in gymnastics,” Bickle says. “For me it was the trampoline. In elementary school I had one in my yard, and Kadin and I would jump on it for hours, all day long. I liked doing flips on it and I remember thinking it might lead to something. When we were in middle school we joined the diving club at Oak Hill. It was about an hour drive away. Then in high school, Rochester had a team.”

In a six-dive meet, three judges evaluate each dive, giving it a score of one to 10. They consider approach, takeoff, elevation, execution and entry into the

water. Then the scores are added together and multiplied by a predetermined number assigned to the difficulty of the dive. Then, the scores of all the dives an individual attempted during the meet are added together. Bickle’s score was 255.15

when he broke the existing record.

“You want to try to do the most difficult dive you can do, but it’s hard to do it flawless,” Bickle says. “You might sacrifice points, so maybe you do an easier dive

to get better scores. It’s possible to try to calculate it out and see what the better way is to go. Plus, some meets have assigned dives that must be done, and only a certain number of each kind of dive. There are forward, back, reverse,

inward and twisting dives.”

Bickle shares that he didn’t reach his full potential as a diver until his junior year. He needed to get his confidence up. When Carmen Reeves became his coach, he stepped up.

“Carmen Reeves kicked us into gear,” Bickle says. “She oversaw so much improvement with me and my teammates. She knew what we were capable of. She could be strict at times but she knew I could break a record.”

“A pivotal moment was when one of the coaches sat me down and said, ‘Has anyone ever told you that you can break a record, and that we believe in you?’” Bickle continues. “I realized that skill comes with practice, but it’s all about what you decide what you are going to do when you get up on that board. Your body will hesitate, but you have to take a deep breath and be sure of yourself.”

Bickle enjoys lending a hand as a coach to his old team. He plans on continuing if his schedule allows it. He is taking welding classes and has been able to be available. Recently he helped a diver prepare for sectionals, and even alternated dives with him after not being on the board for a year. When there is only one person diving over and over, it can be exhausting for them, so Bickle helped by diving with him.

“Breaking the six-dive record on senior night was a great time to do it,” he says. “A bunch of classmates showed up and cheered me on. It was close to the end of the season. Then, Kadin re-broke his 11dive record on the last meet. The coolest thing about the whole experience is the friendship between me and Kadin. We encouraged and pushed each other on, and we still are in touch.”

When asked what advice he would give a high school diver, Bickle says, “This stuff is scary. Maybe you don’t feel like doing a double flip, but make yourself do it. The biggest hurdle is tackling your mental state.”

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REFINED… REDEFINED

Refined in Winamac Is More Than Your Typical Resale Consignment Shop

Angela Anspach, owner of Refined LLC in Winamac, says there is nothing better than owning a family business.

“My husband, Alan, and I own Refined,” she says. “We are an LLC, so our three kids, Cody, Katy and Kendel, are on the board of directors. I am the president, and Al is the vice president. I run and manage the store, along with doing all the finances for the business. We opened on August 1, 2010. I’m proud to announce that we will start our 13th year in business in August.”

The store’s official name is Refined Boutique, Consignment, and Shopping.    “I recently changed the name because we have new items, consigned items, and we also sell candy and have other vendors in here selling their items,” Anspach says. “We offer men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, shoes and accessories.”

The business also has home furnishings and furniture, including antiques.   “We also have recently teamed up with Xaver Cleaners in Plymouth, Indiana, to offer dry cleaning pickup and drop-off,”

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Alan

& Angela Anspach

Anspach says. “We have vendors who sell soaps, lotions and body scrubs, antiques, houseplants, furniture and accessories. We have Sis’ Sewing. We have a lady who does massages as well. We are continually expanding and trying new things.

Before she started her current business, Anspach always aspired to have a store. “I have always wanted to own my own business, so back in 2010 I started talking to a friend about her business, Successions,

a consignments-only store,” Anspach says. “Come to find out, she wanted to sell it, so we bought it. We moved it to our current location, right on U.S. Highway 35, from Market Street in August 2010, and we haven’t looked back since.”

Anspach has enjoyed the different changes over the years.

“We have owned Refined since August 2010, but I have always had someone

manage it for us,” she says. “I recently retired and I get to run it myself now, and I absolutely love it. Who would have thought that it’s possible to love what you do? I am so lucky.”

Anspach has a business background, with an associate degree and bachelor’s degree in business administration.

“I’m currently working on my master’s degree in organizational leadership,”

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Anspach says. “My husband is very supportive. Al and I have been married 35 years this coming November. He is a 50% owner of the business and is our maintenance man, along with my youngest son, Kendel. My daughter is our website specialist, and I get a lot of support and advice from my oldest son, Cody, and daughter-in-law, Kala. Cody is a veterinarian in Decatur, Indiana. They have twins, Jed and Rhetta. Our daughter, Katy, is a representative for Aflac and is married to Jake, and they live in Dayton, Ohio. Kendel was in the Marine Corps, and is now working in maintenance at Winamac Coil Spring.”

Anspach is having several upcoming sales and events.

“Every month we offer 25% off a certain tag color,” Anspach says. “We also have our semiannual $10 bag sale, which is held in February on Super Bowl Sunday, and then again in July on the third Sunday, to

coincide with the annual Northern Indiana Power from the Past show. The bag sale is an awesome event in that we offer clothing, shoes and home furnishings that were on the main floor but just didn’t sell. It’s all very good items. We have a full basement where the bag sale takes place.”

The sale is a big event for the community. “When we have it, the line wraps around the building with people waiting to get in,” Anspach says. “We only offer the best and they know it. Our tagline is ‘Why shop retail when you can shop Refined!’ I make sure to tell everyone that we are not a garage. We are very picky on what we take, but our prices are a fraction of retail. For instance, a pair of jeans here is usually priced between $12.99 to $15.99, when they retail elsewhere for anywhere between $35 to $100.”

Anspach gets a lot of positive feedback from her customers.

“What we offer this community and surrounding communities here at Refined is something I am very proud of,” Anspach says. “We are even thinking of opening another store in a nearby community. I am also opening a space at Trader Buck’s in Lafayette, Indiana, and hope to expand upon that as well. My space will have clothing, specifically jeans and tops, all priced at $5 each. This is just another way to help our communities in a struggling economy.”

Check out Refined LLC at 102 North Monticello Street in Winamac. Call them at 574-946-6123, or check out their website at refined-consign.myshopify.com.

GRAND CENTRAL PERK

A Relaxing Space for Coffee and More

There I was. Surrounded by lions.

“Wake up man! Wake up!”  “Coffee. Coffee! I need coffee!” Whether you are attempting to flee the horrific nightmare that demands to linger at the edge of your mind as you open your eyes to start the day, or as you sit on the edge of the bed,

dawn peering in through the window, just wanting to clear that early morning, have get ready for work haze or you just want to kick back, relax, and savor the essence and flavor of a cup of hot, freshly brewed Columbian blend with a friend, then a visit to Grand Central Perk is surely warranted.

Upon entering, I was struck by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee along with Toto’s

Africa playing overhead and I immediately knew that this was a hidden gem. Greeting you are brick walls, a wooden floor and following in the footsteps of the popular sitcom “Friends,” a comfy sofa. Already having experience running a business and searching for a new endeavor, owner Leslie Zank came upon the idea of a coffee shop while watching an episode of Friends with her husband. So, in 2019, Grand Central Perk was born, creating a place to gather and relax with your friends.

Writer / Mike Dikos

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owner Leslie Zank

The building that houses the shop has a past of its own. Erected in 1909, previous tenants included a car dealer, grocery store, hardware store and a restaurant. Now, following an enormous amount of remodeling and hard work, Zank is creating her own history while providing an atmosphere that welcomes everyone.

Main Street Roasters, located in Nappanee, provides the coffee for the shop’s creations, keeping things local, and helping the small business community.

Beverages served up by the baristas include espresso, lattes and Frappuccino’s, along with a variety of coffee and tea. Jamaican Me Crazy and Carmel Cashew are a few of the prominent flavors that the shop has. Sticking with the “Friends” theme, some of the most popular drinks are the Chandler and the Joey. People familiar with the show instantly know that the Chandler is a salted carmel and coconut latte, while the Joey is a mango

tea. Also included on the menu are drinks like milkshakes and lemonade. A lavender lemonade is available, providing one with the soothing benefits that the herb has to offer.

What would a great cup of coffee be without something great to nibble on? Muffins, cookies, or if you prefer, a slice of pie or cake, are here to satisfy those early morning hunger pangs or those afternoon cravings. Pistachio muffins and cookies are a couple of the favorites you can treat yourself to.

For those that frequent the shop often, Zank typically knows their order.

“I know what they want and usually have their order up on the counter as they walk through the door,” she says. This just shows that being a regular…has its perks.

Besides being a great place to chat, or just having the desire for some lively

conversation, social gatherings are welcome as well. Christmas parties, bridal showers and local church meetings are just a few of the events that can be accommodated. Grand Central Perk has also appeared at local celebrations, such as the North Judson Mint Festival and the Bass Lake Festival. For those wishing to channel their vocal talents, Friday is open mic and karaoke night at the Perk.

With the humorous theme from the popular sitcom creating an atmosphere of ease and relaxation, along with a great cup of coffee, one can detach from the hectic stress of life at least for a moment. “If you concentrate on things that are funny, you don’t have to worry about anything else at least for a little while,” Zank says.

So, if you want to just take a break from your day and sit down with a great cup of coffee, Grand Central Perk is located at 102 East Sycamore Street in North Judson and can be reached at 574-708-4759.

Koontz Lake/ Walkerton/ Grovertown

ALL Times listed are Central Time

What’s Happening AT THE LAKES IN MAY

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!

MAY 2ND - 6p - Koontz Lake Conservancy District Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Interested parties may join remotely by calling (240) 591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted.

MAY 12TH- 14TH – Hesters’ Farm Spring Fling 71880 SR 23 Walkerton, IN 46574  Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! The rental fee is $50. If interested, please contact Cathy at 219-229-4424. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.

Like us on Facebook! – Koontz Lake Association

Knox/Bass Lake

ALL Times listed are Central Time

MAY 6TH – 9a - The Bass Lake Property Owners Meeting at the BLPOA Building

MAY 20TH – 9a – Noon –Membership Drive and the Sheriff Dept. will be doing golf cart inspections. The drive and inspections will be held at the BLPOA Building

MAY 20TH - 5:30p - “A Taste of Bass Lake Pizza” social event. At the BLPOA Building.

MAY 27TH – 8a - 11a – Coffee & Cars at the Wythogan Park

Bremen/Lake of the Woods

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

Lake Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

MAY 5TH – 10a – 6p – Culver Lion’s Estate Sale & Flea Market located at 19402 20A Road, Culver, IN.

MAY 6TH – 9a – 4p - Culver Lion’s Estate Sale & Flea Market located at 19402 20A Road, Culver, IN.

MAY 13 – Max Move walk/run. For more information, visit Culver & Lake Maxinkuckee Visitor Center’s Facebook page.

MAY 1ST – 9a – LOWPOA meeting at the BCC building

MAY 20TH – 9a – BCC Meeting at the BCC Building

MAY 26 & 27– Lake Garage Sales. Friday & Saturday event where many people sell lake gear and housewares. Proud to announce food trucks will be available for this event this year too!

STARTING MAY 13TH, the Culver Farmer’s Market returns to the Culver Park’s West Pavilion every Saturday from 9a – 1p.

STARTING MAY 30TH, the Culver Farmer’s Market returns to the Culver Park’s West Pavilion every Tuesday from 5p – 7p.

FOR UPDATES REGARDING EVENTS PLEASE CHECK THE LAKE ASSOCIATION’S/ ORGANIZATIONS FACEBOOK PAGES/WEBSITES.

LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT

“I was born and raised in Winamac, spending my summers with family on Lake Maxinkuckee, Bass Lake, Lake Manitou and Lake Shaffer, so I am very familiar with the Local real estate area.”

Walter Fritz, MD Services Available Primary and Preventive care • Physical Examinations Employment • Sports • School Physicals Well Child Checks • Immunizations • Chronic Disease Mangagement Laboratory Service • Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings Management Women’s Health Screenings and Annual Exams • Behavioral Healthcare Open Monday thru Friday and every Saturday until noon

John Bulger , MD

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