The Lakes West Magazine July 2023

SOUND STRATEGIES

GET THE FINANCIAL GUIDANCE AND EXPERTISE YOU NEED AT EDWARD JONES IN PLYMOUTH

Writer / Ali Snyder

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

When looking to plan your financial future, Edward Jones in Plymouth is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you are new to the world of financial planning or are looking to switch up your portfolio, one of their six financial advisors will take the time to work directly with you.

Their team is made up of highly experienced individuals who strive to serve the Plymouth area and all of Marshall County. Team members include Todd Clady, Russel Kietzman, Cristy Keller, Mark Bishopp, Craig Wilson and Carlye Bishopp. Together, the team has a combined 87 years of experience.

Getting started with a financial advisor can seem daunting to some at first. However, once you meet with one of the six advisors, you will quickly learn how personable they are with each of their clients. They will take the time to

introduce you into the world of financial planning, get to know you and your vision, and develop a strategy to help you reach your goals. Before you ever invest your money, your financial advisor will make sure you are both on the same path to reach your short-term or long-term goals.

Edward Jones financial advisors pride themselves on helping individuals of all ages and budgets. For example, if you are looking to go to college, Edward Jones can help you save up so you do not come out with a huge amount of debt. Perhaps you are looking more into the future.

A financial advisor can help you reach goals for retirement, save for children and grandchildren, or simply protect your financial future.

When you choose an Edward Jones financial advisor it is not a one-and-done situation. They will truly work with you

every step of the way and monitor your progress to ensure you stay on track.

The advisors devote themselves to topnotch customer service throughout your financial journey and will determine if any adjustments need to be made. As you work with them you will develop a strong relationship where you can feel at ease with putting your finances in their hands. They truly take the guesswork out of what can be a confusing subject for many people.

The first Plymouth branch of Edward Jones was started on May 1, 1977. At that time there was only one advisor. Fastforward to 2022, and Carlye Bishopp joined the team and was recruited by Mark Bishopp. As the team began to prove their success to the community, the need for more advisors became apparent.

Each of the six advisors works in different locations in Plymouth, which makes it

convenient for clients to find a branch and advisor that fits their needs. As a tight-knit team, the advisors will get to know you and will even refer you to one of the other team members if they feel there is a better fit. They do not view it as competition, but rather working together to provide the highest-quality care to their clients.

Edward Jones has a plethora of offices around the country and has been a staple in the world of finances since it began in 1922.

They also have branches up into Canada. Although the company itself is very large and extremely well-known, the personal attention you will get from the branches

in Plymouth is unmatched. Although located in Marshall County, the team also has clients throughout the state and country. The fact that there are many branches to choose from and individuals still choose to work with a Plymouth branch speaks for itself.

The six financial advisors received

their education from Indiana Wesleyan, Indiana University, Indiana University Fort Wayne, and Purdue University.

They are fathers, mothers, daughters, and family oriented, which makes them able to relate to their clients in all stages of life. Speaking of education, Edward Jones requires that their advisors stay up to date with the latest certifications. This includes continuing education for licensing, firm-required continuing education, and state-level continuing education for insurance.

The financial advisors in Plymouth provide a wide variety of services. Some of their primary areas of focus include retirement savings strategies, retirement income strategies, wealth strategies, business retirement plans, estate and legacy strategies, and college savings.

They have worked with thousands of individuals over the years and have

advanced technology support in their office to ensure you receive the most current and comprehensive guidance.

If you are just beginning your financial journey or looking to take your current one to the next level, consider working

with a financial advisor at Edward Jones in Plymouth.

You can reach them by referring to the Edward Jones ad located in The Lakes magazine. They are located at 1226 South Michigan Street in Plymouth.

ROUTE TO SUCCESS

JUDSON’S ROUTE 10 BAR & GRILL IS BUILDING A STEADY FOLLOWING

Shannon Mannella, owner of Judson’s Route 10 Bar & Grill, says she gave her business its name as a positive way to recognize her hometown.

“North Judson is the name of the town we are located in,” Mannella says. “I am a graduate of North Judson High School and I wanted to give the town something that was named after them, and that would also be for them. So we left off North and just named it Judson to give back to the town.”

Mannella says customers have been telling her they are pleased with the name ever since they opened the restaurant.

“We closed on buying the business on Saint Patrick’s Day, and we opened on March 23, 2023,” Mannella says. “My sister

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owners Shannon and Anthony Mannella

Baldwin And Company

was the bar manager for the place before I took over and she knew I always wanted to own a restaurant. When she heard the previous owners wanted to sell the place, she reached out to me. The owners then reached out to us and the rest is history. My husband also helps me with the restaurant.”

Judson’s Route 10 Bar & Grill offers a variety of drinks.

“We run daily drink specials as well,” Mannella says. “We also offer Triple XXX Root Beer, nonalcoholic, which is made here in Indiana as well.”

Mannella notes that customers enjoy her specialty menu items. “We are known for our Broasted Chicken and Rib-Eye Steak Sandwiches,” Mannella says. “We have a Route 10 Burger that is our own specialty. We also have a few items on our menu that you can only get at Judson’s Route 10. Our Highway Fries are made with a sauce that one of our cooks made. He is in the process of getting the sauce patent. Also, all our soups are homemade, as well as most of the items on our menu.”

Regular customers already have their favorite dishes.

“We sell a variety of foods, but our Italian Beefs are probably our number-one

seller, along with the Italian Beef Rolls,” Mannella says. “We also sell a ton of our Route 10 Pizzas, made in house. Our Broasted Chicken is a hot seller. It comes with homemade broasted

wedges and homemade coleslaw that is delicious.”

Mannella and her family have their own personal favorites on the menu.

“My husband personally loves it when we have a Rib-Eye Steak special, and he also loves the Philly Steak Sandwich with Cheese Whiz,” Mannella says. “Our kids love our pizza and deep-fried bread sticks. I personally love the Southwest Salad and the Chicken

Alfredo Soup. I love the Triple XXX Root Beer. Our bar manager also makes a drink called the Drunken Mermaid that is delicious.”

Mannella says Judson’s Route 10 Bar & Grill has some fun events in July and throughout the summer.

“Every Saturday in July we will be having a band or a DJ/karaoke,” she says. “On July 8 we will be having the second annual Bike Night put on by the Knights of Hell. There will be a bike show and what

we call a Burnout Contest, which is who has the loudest pipes, and a stereo contest. There will also be a live DJ, and cash prizes. It starts at 4 p.m. and will continue until 8 p.m.”

Mannella adds that the fun doesn’t stop there.

“We also will be having dart tournaments and bag tournaments coming up throughout the summer,” Mannella says. “We will also be hosting wine-and-canvas nights, along with cookies and canvas for kids.”

Mannella notes that she has thoroughly enjoyed being the owner.

“We are really excited to be on this journey and we hope to bring life back to Route 10, and also have a place for the town to go and have a good time,” Mannella says. “We want to become a destination that people want to stop at.”

For more information on Judson’s Route 10 Bar & Grill, located at 613 West Talmer Avenue in North Judson, call 574-896-5558 or email route10grill@yahoo.com.

HERITAGE PINE SHAVINGS PROVIDES SAFE, HIGH-QUALITY ANIMAL AND LIVESTOCK BEDDING

Writer / Matt Keating

Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

If you want to get something done right, ask the person who is busy all the time. Myron Frey, owner of Heritage Pine Shavings, would be just that person. Frey keeps very busy with his business, which he proudly started in September 2019.

“I came up with the idea for my business when I was looking through a Plain Communities Business Exchange publication,” Frey says. “I saw something about pine shavings. I thought to myself that I can do something with that. Using pine shavings is a cheap source of savings when you are making something, and I thought I could use pine shavings to start a business. I

knew a lot about it, and I knew people who would be able to use them.”

Frey gets his materials from different workers.

“I buy the shavings from people that make deck spindles,” Frey says. “I use a lot of yellow spindles. They are very high quality. They make a big difference. People have told me they really like them and so do their animals.”

Frey uses the materials for animal and livestock bedding.

“I would say about 90% of the pine shavings I sell are used for bedding for horses,” Frey

says. “I also use the shavings for chicken barns. They are the most used shavings for chicken bedding materials. They are also safe and healthy for chickens. The shavings can also be used for bedding for sheep, goats, rabbits and hogs. The animals respond very favorably to it.”

Frey has one group of customers he would love to do more work for.

“I would like to get more 4-H people to use the pine shavings for all of the great 4-H projects they do,” Frey says. “They do wonderful work and they need the pine shavings all the time.”

Frey says many people have told him how much they like his pine shavings.

“It has a minimal amount of dust and a very good pine smell that people love,” he says.

“It also has smaller flakes and it cleans easier. The absorbing of the shavings lasts longer.

Customers like that because their animals appreciate it. The shavings are dry and clean. They are high quality.”

Frey says the insulating properties are great and the price is low.

“The price is very reasonable, and the shavings are also easy to carry and easy to

store,” he says. “They are lightweight and easy to fill a barn or chicken coop with. You aren’t carrying around something that is too heavy.”

Frey adds that the pine shavings keep the animals very clean.

“The shavings also keep the animals relaxed

in their stalls,” Frey says. “The shavings have a calming impact on the animals and they can sleep better. The shavings are fluffier and softer. People have told me that the shavings have made a big difference. Their animals are cozy and comfortable. They are much warmer. Horses and other animals can really calm down and get to sleep. Animals need quality sleep just as much as

people do.”

Frey has been able to get new customers through positive word of mouth.

“It also helps that I have another business, Dusty Road Equine, where I sell horses, and I also do horse prepping and horse training,” Frey says. “I enjoy the work and meeting different people that work with horses. It’s a great business. Horse prepping and horse training takes time to get it right, but it’s enjoyable work and I like being outside. I really love working with horses.

It’s something I know a lot about and it’s something I can keep getting better at.” Frey also has another job.

“I’m an electrician at Wolf Pup RV factory, which is also in Topeka,” Frey says. “I love living here. Topeka is a great place to live and work. You are only three miles away from wherever you are going. The people in Topeka are also as nice as can be.”

To find out more about Heritage Pine Shavings, located at 6655 South State Road 5 in Topeka, contact Frey at 260-350-2366. You can also find Heritage Pine Shavings at the following Dealers: KS Horsemanship, Sturgis, MI -269-689-0581; Spring Valley Feed Mill, LaGrange, IN- 260-463-9950; Starlight Feed & Harness, Bristol, IN- 574238-0657; Woodside Harness & Tack, Ligonier, IN- 260-593-0985; Millersburg Feeds, Millersburg, IN- 574-642-9925; Bontrager Feeds, Topeka, IN- 260-5939218; Shipshe Farm Supply, Shipshewana, IN- 260-768-7271; Orva Schlabach, Milford, IN- 574-248-2026; Swiss Acres Harness, LaGrange, IN- 260-463-3559

Sleek Boutique

LILLY PAD BOUTIQUE IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST A CLOTHING SHOP

You never get tired of the lake views. That is exactly what Keitha Kunkle and scores of other folks believe. That was one of the reasons that she purchased the building that now houses Lilly

“We came up with the name because there were several lily pads in front of the building,” Kunkle says. “There still are a

When the decision was made to buy the multi-use building in 2021, Kunkle had lots of ideas but nothing decisive. She wanted to open a business there but wasn’t sure which

Some of those ideas ranged from an ice cream shop to a restaurant to a bait shop and a ladies’ boutique.

“My choice was the boutique,” she says. “It’s so much fun meeting the ladies, and the fun of the lake traffic. In summer my customers can drive the boat to the shop. The husbands can sit on our large deck to be entertained while their wives

As a junior and senior in high school, Kunkle worked at a boutique to earn gas money and money to buy clothes. “I never planned on having my own boutique,” she says.

Kunkle moved to Rochester in 2015, to a lakeside cottage. Formerly a resident of Kokomo, she retired from Kokomo Gas & Fuel, and travelled a bit between Kokomo and Gold Canyon, Arizona. The Kunkles settled in Rochester and adopted the lake lifestyle, adding to the cottage and making it their permanent home in 2020.

After remodeling the exterior and the interior of her business, Kunkle has embraced the lake theme, both in the business decor as well as the merchandise she sells. Inside, a canoe and kayak serve as display pieces, along with oars, nets and minnow buckets.

Owner Keitha Kunkle

“WE NEVER SEE A STRANGER WHEN YOU COME TO THE LILLY PAD. WE HAVE A FUN AND LAIDBACK ATMOSPHERE BECAUSE WE ARE ON A LAKE. WHERE ELSE CAN YOU HAVE A VIEW OF LAKE MANITOU THAN ON OUR DECK? YOU COULDN’T ASK FOR A BETTER LOCATION.”

“It does make you feel that you are at the lake,” she says. “It’s fun and casual.”

That lakeside vibe is also present in the selection of Lake Manitou merchandise, like hoodies, crew-neck T-shirts and zipup sweatshirts. Other lake-themed merchandise includes hats, pillows, blankets, keychains, wine cups, beer mugs and cheese cutting boards.

“One of our most popular items is the Lake Manitou sweatshirts,” Kunkle says. “My customers cater to anything that

is about Lake manitou. There is a lot of history here.”

Kunkle also carries casual, work and special-occasion clothing for women. Clothing lines include Tribal, lula b., Orly, Picadilly, Escape, Lakegirl and Wild Palms, among other brands. Accessories include shoes, purses and jewelry. She also sells fragrances, including one made in Ireland called Inis.

Shoppers at the boutique include local people as well as out-oftowners.

“The community supports my boutique,” Kunkle says. “Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”

Summer, however, is the busiest time of the year for any lakeside business. Kunkle extends her hours in the summer to accommodate increased business, and adds some special events and opportunities on the outside deck.

For example, she offers entertainment on the Fourth of July. Awakening Massage offers massage therapy by Shawn Henderson-Vigil at Lilly Pad. Yoga is offered at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday on the deck by Lindsay Barts.

In June she also expanded services. Customers can now rent pontoons, kayaks and paddleboards. Pontoon rentals start at $350 per day, and kayak and paddleboard rentals are $35 for two hours. Pier space is also available for rent during the season.

“I added these rentals because a lot of people don’t have the opportunity to enjoy Lake Manitou without investing in a boat,” Kunkle says. “This gives them the opportunity to come out and enjoy the fun on the lake.”

To reserve a pontoon or kayak for a specific day and time, customers should call the boutique, make reservations and pay in advance, to make sure there is a rental available. To rent a pontoon, a driver’s license is required as well as the renter’s home insurance policy number for verification.

To rent a kayak or paddleboards, parents must sign for children who do not have a driver’s license, and small children must be accompanied by an adult older than 18 years of age.

In addition to Kunkle’s presence in the boutique, she relies on her part-time seasonal help to manage the influx of people to Lake Manitou in the summer. Employees Kimberlie Rand and Rhonda Holt have been there since the beginning, she says.

“They love the Lilly Pad as much as I do,” Kunkle says. “They are both very special and have worked very hard.”

Kunkle strives to make sure anyone who visits her store feels welcome, almost like a part of the family. With entrances to the boutique located on the lake side or the street side, customers can find their way easily into the shop.

“We never see a stranger when you come to the Lilly Pad,” she says. “We have a fun and laid-back atmosphere because we are

on a lake. Where else can you have a view of Lake Manitou than on our deck? You couldn’t ask for a better location.”

There have been many changes since Kunkle opened her doors in November of 2021. She expanded the footprint of the boutique to three times its original size, added more services, and keeps updating the lines of products and clothing she offers.

“As of now I have extended myself and have no plans to add anything else,” she says. “But by next summer, well, you never know. “

Lilly Pad Boutique is located at 2317 East State Road 14 in Rochester. For more information, call 574-223-5459, or visit their Facebook page for the latest items and to keep up with other news. To reserve a pontoon, kayak or paddleboard, call 765-438-7912.

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Got This Covered

W.A. ZIMMER COMPANY SPECIALIZES IN SUPERIOR SHADE SOLUTIONS

Writer / Ali Snyder

Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

For over 45 years, W.A. Zimmer Company has been providing home improvement solutions to individuals and

families in the area. When Owners Bill and Marcia Zimmer started the company in 1976, they knew they wanted to do things a little differently. Their vision was to provide maintenance-free products to

their clients with quality craftsmanship and customer service at the core.

W.A. Zimmer is dedicated to helping their customers find a way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Some of their most popular products include pergolas, retractable awnings, patio covers, sunrooms, retractable shade screens, and rattan sunroom furniture.

The pergolas from W.A. Zimmer not only provide a beautiful outdoor space to your

Bill Zimmer Owner/President and Ryan Lemon CEO of W.A. Zimmer.

home, but also style and shade. You can choose either a free-standing aluminum pergola or an attached pergola.

By adding seating, or perhaps some flowers to enhance the look of your pergola, you will have a magnificent outdoor space. Whether you are reading a book by yourself or entertaining friends and family, you will have a calm space to enjoy.

For those who do not know much about pergolas, they can be described as an outdoor structure with columns that support an open roof of beams and rafters. Most people may think of pergolas as vinyl or wooden. W.A. Zimmer sets the bar higher by offering extruded aluminum pergolas. These are a great option if you are not looking to maintain other types of materials. Besides the convenience of not having to keep up with other pergola materials, the aluminum option is pleasant to the eye.

Pergolas serve many purposes. One of the main reasons individuals choose to install a pergola is to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about harmful ultraviolet rays. In addition, pergolas are extremely versatile. You can choose to have a pergola in your backyard, on a patio or near your pool. No matter the choice you make, you and your guests will be able to enjoy the warm weather while not having to worry about overheating in the sun. Pergolas are also a great investment for your home. Of course, you will want to enjoy your new pergola with your family, but if you ever decide to move, a pergola will add a great deal of value to your home.

W.A. Zimmer offers patio covers, which are different than pergolas. They can be described as a patio roof, with carport and solid-roof options. The solid roof provides protection from rain, snow, ultraviolet rays and other outdoor elements. They can be used for areas like your pool, deck, barbecue area or

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STOP IN OR USE THE DRIVE THRU AT FIVE LAKES COFFEE

virtually any other outdoor space. The carport style is great to keep your vehicle protected and out of the elements. Instead of installing a brand-new garage, W.A. Zimmer can provide you a less expensive option while still providing you with the same benefits.

Patio covers come in various sizes and styles. W.A. Zimmer offers Florentine, Venetian and Roma, which you can view and learn more about on their website.

They also offer a Santa Fe style, which has a solid-panel thermal roof and also has the attractive look of a pergola. If you’re interested in a patio cover but do not know where to start, no problem. The team at W.A. Zimmer has a dedicated group of knowledgeable individuals who can take a look at your space and help you design the perfect outdoor patio cover.

If you live in Indiana, you already know how the weather can change from day

Ryan Lemon CEO and Bill Zimmer Owner/President of W.A. Zimmer

to day, and season to season. For this reason, many people choose to go with a sunroom. This allows you to enjoy the sights of nature at every time of the year without having to compensate for not being able to spend time outdoors. For example, you can view the beauty of flowers blooming in the spring, the greenery and sunshine of summer, the leaves falling in autumn and the snowflakes in winter. Whether you are sipping a cup of sweet tea or drinking your morning coffee, a sunroom is sure to enhance your appreciation for nature.

W.A. Zimmer offers three different types of sunrooms including the Zimmer Room Plus, the Extended Season Sunroom and the Three Season Sunroom. No matter the style you are looking for, their team will be able to assess your living space and recommend the best option.

Perhaps you are looking to add additional shade to your pergola, garage door

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!

Your Maternity Oasis

or outdoor patio cover. The team at W.A. Zimmer has you covered, quite literally. Their outdoor shades are a great option if you are looking to have more privacy, control room brightness, keep insects away and stay safe from harmful ultraviolet rays. When you invest in an outdoor shade, you are making a solid investment into your home. They install only the highest-quality shades from brands like Sunesta, which is a solar screen. You can have peace of mind without giving up a sophisticated look to your home.

Of course, there are always other businesses to choose from. What sets W.A. Zimmer apart is their highly dedicated team of craftsman, and customer service department. They are well-known in the area and have a high reputation for quality and care. They have built strong relationships with suppliers for over 45 years and are able to provide you with the best pricing. With supply issues being a problem lately, W.A. Zimmer is proud to keep most materials in stock, which results in getting the job done faster than competitors.

W.A. Zimmer has a comprehensive website with an extensive FAQ section where you can find answers to many of your questions. They also offer showroom tours at their Huntington location, where you can browse all their products and can meet and speak with a designer.

If you are looking to enhance your outdoor living space, reach out to W.A. Zimmer Company. They can be found at wazimmer.com, and on Facebook @ wazimmercompany.

SprayRoofingFoam &RoofingCoating

heartlandenterprise@emypeople.net

FOAM-LOK

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574-223-6751 • 574-835-3687

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GUYS KEEP ENERGY BILLS LOW AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION HIGH

What’s in the attic and in the basement matters, especially if you want a cozy environment for your family or business and lower utility bills. Attics, basements and crawl spaces are often overlooked when it comes to insulating a house or business against these unpredictable Indiana weather conditions.

“Attics are the most important area in your home to have properly insulated and air sealed,” says Kyle Hoover, co-owner and managing member of The Insulation Guys LLC. “This helps prevent air from escaping the house and stops outside air from coming in. Crawl space encapsulation along with insulation will make your home drier and warmer during the winter.”

Hoover and Ashley Sampsel make it their business to ensure that their customers’ houses and businesses are properly insulated using state-of-the art building science.

Just addressing the attic can save a property owner as much as 30% on energy bills. Insulating the rim joists and box sills in the basement cam reduce air infiltration by as much as 20%, which translates to even more heating and cooling costs.

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

From left to right Mike Hoover, Kyle Hoover, Lori Hoover, Ashley Sampsel

The Insulation Guys LLC opened in 2012. Hoover and Sampsel had both worked with Hoover’s father, Mike, who owned and operated a mechanical insulation company, Hoover Contracting Services LLC, in 2002. After his father’s business closed, Hoover and Sampsel purchased the equipment and started out on their own.

Last year an addition to the Insulation Guys building in Rochester added 1,100 square feet of warehouse space and 700 square feet of office space including a reception area, conference room and two individual offices. They also expanded their workforce to 16

people and increased training operations.

“In our years of doing business, we have had the privilege to work with all types of customers,” Hoover says. “They have ranged from an individual needing a walk-in cooler insulated to a general contractor for a multiunit complex. We take pride in our work that we do, no matter the size of the project.”

Hoover and Sampsel service both residential and business customers within a 50-mile radius of Rochester. There have been times when some jobs required travel outside of that zone.

The company offers loose-fill cellulose, fiberglass insulation, fiber and spray foam insulation products for attics, basements and walls. These require installation experts skilled in effective and cost-saving techniques.

“Spray foam is a high-performance building insulation product,” Hoover says. “When using spray foam your home or business is insulated and air-sealed with one seamless application. Sealing air leaks is an important step to lower energy costs, reduce drafts and enjoy a more comfortable interior environment.”

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the installation of insulation, Hoover says.

“Every application from residential to industrial is unique,” he says. “We take into consideration all aspects of thermal and moisture protection, and how it affects the structure no matter what we are insulating. Every job, big or small, we apply our

knowledge of building science to achieve the most favorable solution for the customer.”

Their experience and knowledge come in handy when educating their customers about what they do and why it’s important. Hoover says one common misconception is that insulation only matters in the winter.

“While insulation is effective in the winter months, it is beneficial in the summer season as well,” he says. “It keeps your home’s temperature regulated for your comfort and helps you to save on energy year-round.” Another misconception is that insulation does not have to be replaced or that it isn’t worth the cost to upgrade it.

“It is very possible that insulation may need to be replaced or retrofitted after a period of time depending on the type of insulation installed, the R rating of the original insulation, compression and movement over time, and whether any damage has occurred,” Hoover

says. “Upgrading your insulation is a sound investment that is likely to pay for itself through reduced utility bills.”

Taking the time and spending the money to upgrade a building’s insulation adds value to the property, he says. Property owners may also be eligible for energy rebates and tax credits.

With combined experience in the industry of 40 years, Hoover and Sampsel have faced challenges that many new companies experience. Situations out of their control like the pandemic and changes in the housing industry could have been disastrous for a growing business. The Insulation Guys LLC has weathered these challenges.

“We were fortunate to have continued growing despite the negative implications the pandemic had on other businesses,” Hoover says. “In the past few years the demand for new-built homes, retrofits and remodels

produced a schedule for us that was difficult to keep up with at times. The last thing we want to tell our customers when they call in is that we are months out before we can get to them.”

Hoover and Sampsel solved this by investing in additional equipment, adding two new rigs to their fleet and hiring more help. This allowed them to complete more jobs on a timely basis.

“Our next challenge was then to have a solid labor force,” Hoover says. “We began by hiring quality craftsmen and provided them with the training needed to become a part of our team. We do our best to take care of our co-workers by creating a work environment that they take pride in. Our motto is ‘We take care of each other, we learn from each other and we succeed together.’”

Facing challenges and coming up with solutions has been the key to the continued

growth of The Insulation Guys, which has just passed the 10-year mark. The biggest challenge remains to ensure that their customers are also a focus of growth and success, and consider the company a resource.

“When they have questions, we share our knowledge of building science and the value of the products we offer,” Hoover says. Even when a customer may have multiple options that will work for them, Hoover says his company will take the time to explain the differences and make recommendations. “By focusing on a personable relationship with the customer and our quality of work, we create repeat customers and contractors,” he says.

For more information on The Insulation Guys and their services, call 574-930-0636, email theinsulationguys@gmail.com, or visit theinsulationguys.net. Their business is located at 325 West Monticello Road in Rochester.

1. Three Gorges project

2. Good looker?

3. Fund-raising events

4. Bullet on an agenda

5. Bona ___ (credentials)

6. Plays footsie, perhaps

7. “Are we there ___?”

8. Focus of debate

alternative

Congeal

RIDING HIGH

Writer & Photographer / Ali Snyder

As you drive through Shipshewana, you will likely see your fair share of horses and buggies on the road. What you might not expect is to see one of the most unique businesses in town - FAB LLC. This oneof-a-kind shop sells, builds and services electric bikes on-site. Customers come from near and far including the South Bend area, Fort Wayne and, of course, local areas, to get their hands on these high-quality bikes.

Approximately 14 years ago, Owner Perry Miller and his wife, Carrie, first became interested in e-bikes. The spark came when they were pulling their son, Michael, on a tag-along bike. Michael has disabilities, and the idea to create a conversion kit for bikes struck a chord with the Millers. When they decided to make their vision a reality, it was still well before most people in the area had even heard of an e-bike.

Fast-forward to 2021, and the Millers started noticing more and more e-bikes showing up in the area. They jumped on the trend and began converting the bikes for themselves and others. They did their research and saw a high demand for e-bikes in other countries such as Germany and the Netherlands. Their Amish roots came in

handy, as Carrie had connections with the Dutch in the Netherlands to educate herself on how the e-bike business operates. They then realized they could make a full-time business out of their own backyard.

Last summer the Millers did a lot of biking, and as a result, they ended up meeting and talking with many different types of people. “It’s very easy to strike up a conversation with strangers because they love to talk

about their e-bikes,” says Carrie Miller. Those conversations helped the couple pick up on statistics, pro tips, what people like and dislike, and what locals are looking for. The Millers saw a need for a salesand-service bike center in the area, and now work with some of the largest e-bike dealerships as a direct result of these conversations and networking.

Their shop offers a wide variety of e-bikes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a safe, off-road bike, city bike, longdistance bike or children’s bike, FAB LLC can accommodate. If you’re new to e-bikes, Perry and Carrie are more than happy to share their knowledge with you and help you choose the best fit.

Miller says they originally designed and imported their own bike model. However, when they saw how many well-designed e-bikes there already are, with great power and pricing, they decided to go that route. Some of the most popular brands they sell include Heybike, Aventon and KBO. There is a bike for every need, from off-road adventures to daily commutes. They even offer a three-wheeled e-bike that is great for the elderly or physically handicapped to get out and about. The team at FAB LLC is even able to convert your regular bike into an e-bike if you desire.

“We are surprised at how many people have

started coming in from South Bend, Fort Wayne and the surrounding areas,” Miller says. Some of the most surprising customers are retirees, the couple says. The Millers pride themselves on the highest-quality customer service.

Even if someone has purchased their e-bike from somewhere else, Miller says they can still bring their bike in to get it serviced, have questions answered and load up on accessories. If you are not familiar with e-bikes, you can come in to learn about them and even take different types for a test drive. The bikes can get up to 30plus miles per hour, although the owners do not recommend this, especially for beginners.

Miller shares a story of how a customer said his new e-bike was the best birthday present he’d ever purchased. In the customer’s words, “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy an e-bike.”

FAB LLC is owned and operated by the Millers and their son, Michael. Michael focuses primarily on sales and service with his dad, while Carrie keeps the business running behind the scenes.

The family enjoys working as a team and tackling new challenges together. One of their greatest joys is seeing how they can provide a service to the community, as well as seeing Michael make the most of his special needs in an amazing way. The Millers are a tight-knit family of eight who owns and operates several businesses in the area.

Next time you are looking for a new hobby or a different way to get around, consider an e-bike.

FAB LLC is located at 2195 North 675 West in Shipshewana. They can be reached at 260-585-4139.

Let’s ride!

CONTINUED TRADITIONS

NEW KITCHEN STORE GETS NEW LOCATION

Story & Photography Provided

Welcome to the new New Kitchen Store!

Did you know that New Kitchen Store has been in Walkerton for the past 17 years?

In those years we have moved a few times, moving into a bigger facility with each move. Our new location is a must to see, especially for those of you who have been shopping with us for the past 17 years. Our address is 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the former location.

For those who don’t know how this unique establishment called New Kitchen Store started, here is how it all began…

It all started with antique dishes. For many years, Phyllis and

her husband, Charles Wille, owned Triple Cross Antiques & Collectibles in their hometown of Walkerton. The best part of the job, though, was selling and matching beautiful dishware. That love became a springboard into launching a new business, which opened in 2006 in downtown Walkerton. Not long after opening, the owners expanded the product selection from dishes and quality cookware to include gourmet, free-trade coffees, teas, spices and oils.

The business outgrew the building and in 2012, New Kitchen Store opened in its current location just north of town. Today we sell thousands of products that range from high-end utensils and small appliances to the most basic home kitchen needs. We feature many American-made brands like Lodge Cast Iron

and The Great Scape Woody Paddle, as well as distinguished kitchenware from abroad, like world-renowned Wüsthof knives, Alessi teapots, and Garnier-Thiebaut fine French linens.

New Kitchen Store is dedicated to offering high-quality products that are serviceable and well-made, improve healthy lifestyles and promote go-green choices. We are also highly involved in their community and donate a share of their profits to local charities.

Now that you know the story of New Kitchen Store, I hope that you will come visit us often. You will find that our store is quite unique. We are dedicated to customer service. Our employees learn how our products work. If for some reason an employee can’t answer your question at the time, we will research or make a phone call to find your answer or address your concern.

We continuously add new items to the store, so don’t feel like you only need to come once a year. The shop has regularscustomers who we can call by name. We hope you will become one of them.

Phase one of opening the store is complete. Phase two has already begun.

We will be able to offer cooking classes very soon in our kitchen, which is attached to the retail store. Soon we will be

adding our sampling back into the daily routine, and our coffee of the day. You won’t find our coffee in any grocery store. If you think you can’t drink coffee but want to, come try a sample.

Make sure you are on our mailing list so you will know of all classes and upcoming events. We are also on Facebook, and don’t forget about our website. We can direct-ship items to you if you are out of the area, and for those who like to get away during the winter months.

Our farmers market is now open and in full swing. We are set up in our parking lot on Thursday afternoons from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can stop by to shop or inquire to sell. Homemade or handmade items only!

Our official grand opening for the store will be on Saturday, July 1. We are currently open for business as we make adjustments needed for the arrangement of the store.

The knife-sharpening event that we host annually is coming up soon as well. Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 19. We will post more information on that as the time gets closer.

For additional info, visit newkitchenstore.com.

IT CAME FROM OUTER SPACE (TO INDIANA)!

A HISTORICAL GLANCE AT SPACE-RELATED OCCURRENCES IN NORTHERN INDIANA

Writer / Jeff Kenney

Photography Provided

This summer’s release of the new film “Asteroid City” in theaters worldwide provides as good an excuse as any (if any are really needed) to take a brief look at some space-related phenomena - specifically that of things flying in, or ostensibly so, from outer space to Indiana through the years.

While claims of UFO sightings are nothing new, you may or may not be aware that the Department of Defense established an Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force in 2020, with a public congressional hearing on the matter in 2022, which itself was focused on a report issued the previous year.

Among other information made available is the fact that some 400 reports of unidentified aerial objects are on record, and 143 reports by military planes of such objects between 2004 and 2021 remain unexplained. The possibility of alien spacecraft can’t be ruled out, the report notes.

Such concerns, nationally or in the Hoosier state, have ebbed and flowed over the past 70-plus years. The U.S.

Air Force’s Project Blue Book was established during the peak era for UFO sightings in America - that is, the Cold War years of the 1950s and ‘60s, when popular references to potential alien invasion via

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.”

movies, books and articles spurred widespread panic and likely mass phenomena of seeing-what-one-expected-to-see in the night skies. Through 1969, Project Blue Book reported more than 12,000 UFO sightings!

Among headline-making Indiana incidents: Hundreds of people reported seeing three flying saucers south of Indianapolis during this period, with military and police officials among the many witnesses. House sized and balloon shaped, these fiery-tailed oddities, glowing in the night sky, performed figureeight-style maneuvers and disappeared near Martinsville.

Among officially disproven suppositions was the March 1951 story of a Marion County farmer who found a red parachute and mechanism in his pasture that caused agitation of his chickens and cows. The object turned out to be a weather observation balloon.

Expectations of “flying saucers” were high

enough that a group of Monticello-area businessmen claimed to have written a message to potential alien visitors using geometric designs to spell out the words, “Come in peace. Let us talk together,” and encouraging them to land on nearby Shafer Lake (some locals, it should be noted, decried the endeavor as a tourism-oriented stunt, which sounds more credible than the potential for alien landings).

A number of UFOs were reported in 1966, including in Lakes Magazine-readership areas in northwest Indiana.

Reports from around Valparaiso, Knox and Plymouth in March of that year included lights in the sky ranging from white to bright orange. Porter County Deputy Sheriff Fred Cook said that he, State Police Trooper Gary Whitledge, and Deputy Coroner Robert Watts tracked an object with a brilliant orange center and white fringes, moving at the speed of aircraft for some 15 miles away for about 15 minutes.

A trooper from the same state police post reported observing two egg-shaped, lighted objects for almost 10 minutes near U.S. Highway 30 south of Valparaiso, and Plymouth Police Sergeant Dennis Dreibelbis said he watched three egg-shaped objects circle Marshall County for more than three hours a few nights later.

Reports around Indianapolis and several cities in the vicinity, including by three deputy sheriffs, in the fall of 1966 described blueish balls of light that grew in size and faded into “an opaque mist.”

Oval-shaped UFOs were reported by a number of witnesses in the Connersville area in October of 1973, and a 1978 Associated Press report focused on Charles Tucker of Nappanee, Indiana, regional director of Mutual UFO Network, Inc., who reported that at least 23 “strong” reports of UFO sightings had taken place in Indiana in thenrecent years.

By 1988, the same Mutual UFO Network was represented by Mount Vernon, Indiana, resident Francis L. Ridge, who, in an interview with the Evansville Press, said that 67 of 130 national sightings in 1987 were located in Indiana. Ridge detailed a group effort by Network members to capture a reported phenomenon near Corydon, Indiana, of orange lights appearing and disappearing in the sky. Ridge had a videotape showing moving light approaching an airplane.

Another spate of Lakes-area sightings took place shortly after when, in November of 1990, dozens of reports in the Culver area were referenced in the Culver Citizen newspaper, whose editor, Fred Karst, said “quite a few calls” had been coming in describing alleged nearby UFO sightings.

One of these was from a security guard who described “a white, triangular-shaped light pattern.” Some chalked the phenomena up to activities at the Grissom Air Force Base

near Peru, Indiana, but officials at the base dismissed the idea.

In April 2008, Kokomo, Indiana, experienced a mild panic when a highdecibel, house-shaking boom caused multiple calls to 911 and subsequent investigation by police, firefighters and Homeland Security. Accompanying the sound were reports of large, orange balls of light in the sky.

And let’s not forget the most visible manifestation of alien invasion in Indiana - the classic 1977 science fiction movie, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” which took place near Muncie, Indiana!

METEORS GALORE

Meanwhile, less-sentient invaders from outer space have struck Indiana in the form of meteorites.

Quality Care, Closer To Home

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

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

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

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

To schedule your appointment, please call (574) 842-2476

Around three miles east of the Lakes Magazine-area town of Kentland, Indiana, in Newton County, is, perhaps surprisingly, a key site in the global history of meteor impact crater research, known internationally as the Kentland Crater.

As noted in a blog post on orangebeanindiana. com, “Being an impact crater is a big deal, but even among impact craters, the Kentland crater is a standout. Among geologists and planetary scientists, it holds the unique distinction as being both a relatively young example of impact tectonics (how big things from space make big things on Earth move), and a geologic enigma.”

It’s believed that the crater underlies a good-sized portion of southern Newton and northwestern Benton counties though only around .3 square miles of it are exposed. Believed to be millions of years old, the crater includes ancient carbonate, shale and sandstone, and shows signs of ancient meteor impact so great that layers of rock normally horizontal are fractured and exposed at the surface in almost vertical fashion.

A number of much smaller meteorites have hit Indiana over the years since reporting of such incidents began, but among those recorded in the Lakes area are a piece of chondrite “from a large fireball” that landed in Rochester on December 21, 1876; a large piece of iron from a meteorite reported “buried and lost” after it fell in Plymouth in 1893; a similarly “buried and lost” iron piece that struck in LaPorte in 1900; a 1915 piece of stoney iron that hit the South Bend area; and a chondrite meteor which struck a house in Hamlet (in Starke County) on October 13, 1959.

As it happens, the most dramatic (and violent) meteor strike in Indiana turned out to be a hoax.

In January of 1879, reports hit newspapers of a meteorite near Attica, Indiana, that crashed through the roof of a farmhouse occupied by widower Leonidas Glover. The victim, said to be asleep when the incident occurred, was badly mutilated and killed instantly by the rock, which crashed

Tim Day, MD

Alexa Good, FNP-C

The ancient Kentland Crater in Northwest Indiana is one of the most studied and notable of its kind in the world. This photo was taken in 1903

through a few more floors of the house before burying itself in the ground beneath.

The story was circulated and recirculated for some years in newspapers around the state and beyond, until a more scientific investigation was undertaken. This included a thorough questioning of many residents of Fountain County, none of whom knew or had heard of Leonidas Glover or the house struck by the meteor…something borne out by checking county records of residents as well. The entire affair, which even included, at one point, a chunk of rock with fake “blood” for greater effect, had been concocted.

And, while numerous reports of meteorites striking the earth abound throughout history, only one person in recorded history has actually been directly hit by a meteorite, and she was not an Indiana resident, though she did live to tell about the event.

Ann Hodges, age 34 of Sylacauga, Alabama, was asleep on her couch at home on November 30, 1954, when a nine-pound meteorite crashed through the ceiling, striking a radio before it hit her in the thigh. Hodges had quite a bruise though no more significant injuries, though she did become understandably but briefly famous.

And so, whether you believe in UFOs, hope to see a meteor, or just plain enjoy the beauty of the stars, keep your eyes on those Indiana night skies. You never know what you might see.

Local historian Jeff Kenney is museum and archives manager at Culver Academies in Culver, Indiana.

FIND THE LOOKS YOU LOVE AT BLACK CAT CLOTHING COMPANY

Some people equate a black cat with superstition. For those who know of Black Cat Clothing Company in downtown Plymouth, this particular Black Cat is a pleasant experience.

Owner Shiloh Milner has always loved vintage clothing. She also had a dream of opening a store that sold vintage clothing. Black Cat Clothing Company is her dream come true, and adds even more. It also sells consigned clothes for women in a range of sizes, from extra small to plus sizes, and even has a small selection of children’s clothes.

When she first opened the store in 2017, she rebranded the former Harriet’s Closet,

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Shiloh Milner - Owner

making the space her own. That included a new color scheme, new organization and a new name.

“I did not have a black cat or any cat at that time,” she says. “I just liked the way Black Cat Clothing Company sounded.”

Now there is a black cat that greets shoppers in the store. Magic is the name, and purring is this cat’s game. Every month Milner sponsors the adoption of a black cat at the Marshall County Humane Society.

There is a growing trend of people looking for vintage clothing. While to some people that may mean clothing styles from the ‘50s, ‘60s or ‘70s, others consider the clothing trends of the 1990s and 2000s as vintage, Milner says.

There has also been a trend in buying secondhand in general. It’s considered environmentally responsible to buy

Windows that have a lifetime warranty that includes glass breakage

from a consignment store, rather than simply discard a garment that is no longer wanted. Milner points to gently used clothing resale sites like Poshmark and Mercari as evidence that buying preowned has become more common.

At Black Cat Clothing Company, clothing, shoes and accessories selected for consignment are checked to make sure they meet strict criteria. Clothes should be freshly laundered and wrinkle-free without stains, odors, rips, pulls or pet hair. They only accept clothes for the current season and ask that styles only be a few years old.

“There is not a lot of what I call fast fashion in here,” she says. “It needs to be classic and well-made.”

If it’s vintage and in good condition, however, Milner and her staff will accept it. A well-stocked vintage section is housed in the basement of the 1800s building Milner owns. Consignments are limited to 25 items and appointments are required. Once the item sells, the consignor receives 35%.

For items that do not sell even after a price reduction and time on the $2 rack, Milner donates the items to local charities that benefit the community, such as the CommUnity Project Thrift Store in Rochester. Some of these local consignment stores are also consignors at Black Cat, especially for vintage fashion.

Milner sees this as a way to help the community by supporting local causes. The store is active on social media and depends in part on word of mouth in

drawing new customers. Purchases can be made online, and customers can even put an item they see on social media on hold.

Over Memorial Day weekend, Milner and her staff packed a truck with selections from the inventory and participated in a vintage fashion pop-up event in Indianapolis. Fifty-six vendors signed up to take part. She says she chose to do this to promote her store and to venture out beyond the region.

“My goal ultimately is to sell more vintage,” she says.

Consignment stores, Milner says, are not for everyone. But for those who visit Black Cat Clothing Company, she hopes they find the store “clean, on trend, reasonably priced, and that the customer feels welcomed.”

“We have new things that come in all the time,” Milner says. “Come in and find

Jill Meadors - Manager

your size and then find what’s cute.”

Black Cat Clothing Company is located at 110 North Michigan Street in Plymouth. For more information, call 574-941-4474, email blackcatclothingco110@gmail.com, or visit stores.myresaleweb.com/black-catclothing-co. Find the store on Facebook @ shilohsblackcatclothingco.

RED, WHITE, & BLUE TRIFLE

Total Time 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 boxes (5.1 oz each) Vanilla Instant Pudding or White Chocolate Instant Pudding

6 cups half and half

3 cups Pound Cake, Angel Food Cake, or White/Vanilla Cake (3 cups chopped)

2 cups raspberries washed & dried

2 cups blueberries washed & dried

PREPARATION:

Make sure you have cooked & completely cooled cake chunks for this recipe. You can purchase a pound cake or angel food cake at the store, or purchase a box of pound cake or angel food cake and make it yourself according to package directions. Or make a white cake mix or vanilla cake mix, according to package instructions, and use that in the trifle.

Wash the fresh berries and dry them. I pat the berries with a paper towel to ensure that there is no moisture and they’re dry. You do not want to put wet berries into the trifle when layering. In a large mixing bowl, add the instant pudding mixes and half & half milk. Stir with a wire whisk, for 2-3 minutes, until mixed together well. Let sit for 5 minutes before assembling the layers. Use a glass trifle dish OR similar serving dish. Assemble the layers inside the trifle dish in this order :

• Thin layer of pudding

• Layer of raspberries (reserve some for the top)

• All of the cake chunks (3 cups)

• Layer of pudding

• Layer of blueberries (reserve some for the top)

• Remaining pudding

• Remaining berries

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or tin foil and refrigerate at least 2-4 hours before serving. You can serve it right away but for best taste and texture, let it refrigerate.

* Feel free to use any berries you want. Chopped or sliced strawberries, blackberries are great options. If you want lots of berries you can even use all the raspberries & blueberries in the layers and then top the trifle with additional berries of all kinds. For 4th of July or Memorial Day it’s fun to make a star shape out of blueberries on the top of the trifle and then put strawberries or raspberries surrounding the star.

A PEEK AT THE PAST

MARSHALL COUNTY MUSEUM TAKES VISITORS BACK IN TIME

Can a moment in time, a moment in history, be captured? Perhaps by an eyewitness account, by physically bearing witness to an event. Perhaps by a photograph. Maybe a written record, a documentation logged long ago for someone to read in the future. A machine, capable of traveling through time, capable of returning to the past. Where’s H.G. Wells when you need him?

Since time travel isn’t quite on the horizon yet, and if one has the desire to touch the past, then the Marshall County Museum is the place where you can look back in time through photographs, documents and various exhibits. It’s a place where one can find local history, and find the past of Marshall County. It’s also a place where one can find their own past if need be.

Even before entering, one can see why the museum has been a recipient of the Indiana Historical Society’s Outstanding Historical

Organization Award. Currently the 1980s are on display in the outside windows. History, fashion and entertainment are some of the display themes.

“Marshall County at the Movies” is the current exhibit you are greeted with as you enter the lower level of the museum. The county has many ties to the cinematic industry, from a naval aviator in “Top Gun” to a local actress that worked with Charlie Chaplin. Gene Siskel and Hal Holbrook, graduates of Culver Military Academy, both

Writer / Mike Dikos Photographer / Tony Straw

Marshall County Museum Staff

have their bonds with cinema and Marshall County. Many more connections to film are represented, from the past to the present.

“Exhibits are recycled to draw interest,” says Executive Director Sandy Garrison. “Nonpermanent exhibits are rotated every six months to a year.” Exhibits inside the museum make their way to the outside windows for passersby to get a glimpse of the past.

Also on the lower level is the Farmer’s Market, an area where the youngest patrons of the museum can play and be entertained. Adjacent to the play area is a captivating display of the animals, past and present, that have resided in the county.

Residents of Marshall County can look into their own past with the use of the genealogy library that the society has available. An extensive card catalog of family names is the place where many start. Records of

marriages, deaths, military service, land titles and historical maps are just a few of the documents that are available to help someone discover their roots. “If you are looking for a document, we can help,” says Archive Manager Iris Fry. High school yearbooks, atlases and resources for individual family research, vetted by archive staff members, are available.

Upon exiting the elevator to the second

floor of the museum, one is met by a horse. Although he would be a welcome discussion of a TV show from the past, Mr. Ed is not the one greeting you. What does greet you is a fine example of one of the much-needed businesses from long ago, the livery stable. Complete with historically correct artifacts, the stable transports you back to another time.

Along with the livery, the second floor

houses the permanent displays that the museum has to offer. The Edwardian Parlor, complete with a wreath of hair, provides a glimpse of the way of life from the turn of the last century. The Military Room is filled with heirlooms from the various branches of service, including a Revolutionary Warera powder horn. The Communication Room is complete with one of the country’s first telephones, a switchboard, a phone booth and the mail sorter from the Burr

Oak post office.

Some of the other displays include the Toy Room, a dentist office, a 19th-century kitchen, a one-room schoolhouse and a general store, all providing a link to the past. Indiana high school sports, a huge part of local culture, are also represented. A video series is available on YouTube, as well as an interactive part of the display for younger sports fans.

Those of you wishing to channel your inner Cornelius Vanderbilt or George Pullman will be enthralled with the Train Room. Mementos from railroads past, train memorabilia and operating model railroads make this room a huge attraction to engineers both young and old. With the help of countless volunteers, the trains are kept running on time and in great shape. The trains operate on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and with the interactive display, young conductors can keep a watchful eye on their freight and passengers.

Marshall Co. Museum Train Room

The society is pleased to announce that on July 7 and 8, they will hold the grand opening of their newest exhibit, the Historic Crossroads Center. A Heritage Support Grant, administered by the Indiana Historical Society with funding from the Lilly Endowment, will help to make this a reality. The display will feature the history of transportation and its impact in Marshall County.

Working closely with the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center, the society will present an accurate representation of the effect that modern roads had on Native people here in the county. Starting with an Indian trail that became the first state-supported road, and was eventually joined by four other highways over the course of time, Marshall County truly became the Crossroads of America.

The story will be chronologically represented by various story stations. An early settlers cabin, a wigwam, and the history of the migration of various peoples and cultures, will show the effects of growth through transportation. The boom of various industries such as pickles, baskets, bicycles and seeds, along with others that helped to shape the history of the county, will also be covered.

Along with the historical displays that the society has to offer, you can attend one of their Brown Bag events, when local experts discuss topics of interest over lunch. A number of other programs are held during the year, and the society sets

up a membership booth at various local festivals, providing insight into the county and community.

The mission of the society, along with the task of creating a new exhibit, is a massive undertaking. Such an undertaking couldn’t be accomplished without the assistance of many. Thanks are extended to the county, board, members, many volunteers, and residents of Marshall County. The museum

is a place for everyone to enjoy and learn. “Future generations don’t know what they don’t know,” says Communication Manager Anita Boetsma. The museum makes for an excellent place to learn and, eventually, to know.

The museum is located at 123 North Michigan Street in Plymouth. For more information, they can be reached at 574936-2306.

Koontz Lake/ Walkerton/ Grovertown

ALL Times listed are Central Time

What’s Happening AT THE LAKES IN JULY

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!

JULY 1ST – 8am – Kayak Race

• 10:30am – Golf Cart Parade – this year’s theme is Rodeo! Arrive with your golf cart decorated at the Hurford’s house (11958 E Woodbine Ln)

• Dusk at the beach – Floata-Rama – bring your boats decorated and illuminated.

JULY 4TH – 7a- Noon - Koontz Lake Fire Dept. Pancake Breakfast at 7784 IN23, 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

Bremen/Lake of the Woods

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

JULY 1ST- City of Knox Family Fun Day @ Wythogan Park

JULY 8TH – 9am - The Bass Lake Property Owners Meeting at the BLPOA Building

JULY 28TH – 30TH – BASS LAKE FESTIVAL - WATCH FACEBOOK FOR EVENT SCHEDULE

JULY 1ST – BCC Annual Charity RUN WALK ROLL event – Check in and breakfast at 8am for more information, email LOWBCC5@gmail.com

JULY 2ND – Boat Parade – 2023 Theme: Holiday Parade of Lights in July! We’ll be having our parade later in the evening to showcase the beautiful lights before the fireworks shows.

JULY 15TH – 9a – BCC Meeting at the BCC Building

JULY 22ND – BCC annual Day At the Lake – All day events and food.

JULY 4TH – 4th of July Celebration

JULY 8TH – 11a – 2p - Historic Boat Tours at the Elks. For more information visit our website at lakemanitou.org or email info@lakemanitou.org.

JULY 29TH – LMA Poker Run at the Moose. For more information visit our website at lakemanitou.org or email info@ lakemanitou.org.

JULY 30TH – Fulton Fun Day

Lake Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County

JULY 12 – 13TH – Adaptive Waterski Clinic

JULY 14 - 16TH - Culver Lake Fest. Visit Culver Lake Fest on Facebook for more information.

JULY 14TH & 15TH – The Culver Lions will serve Ice Cream & Cotton Candy at the Depot.

JULY 15TH – Culver VFW Post 6919 Monthly Breakfast

JULY 21ST – Outdoor Movie at the Part – Visit Culver Parks Dept. On Facebook for more information.

JULY 22ND – 4:30p – 7p – The Culver Lions will have the Annual Corn Roast at the Depot serving a hamburger, a drink, and ALL the corn you can eat!

JULY 22ND – 6p – 8p – Culver Union Township Fire Department Fireman’s Festival. Bring your family and friends out for a night of fun and games. Don’t forget to bring your jar of change!

JULY 29TH – Concert in the Park - Visit Culver Parks Dept. On Facebook for more information.

Grab-N-Go Breakfast at the Farmer’s Market – Culver Lions will provide a “carry out” breakfast at the Luggage Door of the Depot on Saturday’s July 1st, 8th, & 29th.

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

Lesley Metts, NP Lori Truesdell, LCSW