Directions 2010: Retail and entertainment by Phil Beebe

NEXT SUNDAY: ANOTHER DIRECTIONS SECTION FEATURING MORE GREAT AREA BUSINESSES AND SERVICES

2F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

Merchant’s Guide

ALSO INSIDE

SECTION F: RETAIL 2F | E.B. & Bertha C Ball Center; Pepsi Cola Bottling Co.

Did you know that Scott Wise, who founded the Scotty’s Brewhouse restaurant chain in Muncie in 1996, was named the Indiana Restaurant Association’s Restaurateur of the Year in November?

Or that Wizard’s Keep, a campus area role-playing game store, celebrated its 25th anniversary?

Find out more about the economic triumphs in East Central Indiana over the past 12 months in A Look Back - on page 23G in the Health & Wellness section.

20G | MidAmerica Clinical Labs 21G | Morrison Woods 22G | Open Door Health Services

SECTION I: CONSUMER SERVICES 2I | Innovation Connector

23G | Bill Frederick, LCSW, PC

3I | Old National Bank

24G | Integra Specialty Hospital

4I | Muncie Sanitary District 5I | Muncie Stormwater Management

8-9G | Internists Associated

SECTION H: AUTOMOTIVE 2-3H | American Chevrolet Cadillac

10-11G | Meridian Services

4-5H | Benson Motorcycles

6I | Delaware County Sheriff

6-7H | Bill McCoy Ford Lincoln Mercury

7I | First Merchants Trust

8-9H | Stoops Buick Pontiac GMC

8I | Meek Mortuary

10-11H | Tom Wood Honda

9I | Pengad Printing

12H | Gaddis Chrysler Dodge Jeep

10I | Sallie Mae

13H | Muncie Area’s Finest

11I | Stafford Insurance

14H | Munson of Muncie

12I | Community Foundation

Grant

Blackford

Madison

Delaware

Randolph

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 3F

MURRAY’S JEWELERS By Ken Wickliffe

“Custom watchmaking is almost unheard of — so far, we’re only the second place we know of in the United States that is doing it.” — Ryan Murray

Murray’s will use the top of a customers existing ring and inlay it into the top of a new wider band, transforming the look, and protecting the original ring.

ince 1885, five generations of the Murray family have operated Murray’s Jewelers to help other Muncie-area families mark engagements and weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions with lasting heirlooms. A full-service jeweler for the past 125 years, Murray’s carries a complete line of fine jewelry and specializes in making custom-designed, one-of-a-kind items. Murray’s can modify existing jewelry or create an entirely new piece, allowing customers to carry on an existing family tradition or start a new one. “One item we often create is an heirloom inlay ring,” said Jeweler Ryan Murray. “In many cases, a customer has a wedding or engagement ring that has been handed down from a parent or grandparent, but the bottom half of the ring is frequently worn out,” he explained. “We often take the top half of the ring and mount it on a new, wider ring structure to support and protect the original piece, giving the ring a whole new life while keeping its original design intact. “We also have many customers who are looking for something entirely new, but want to participate in actually creating it so they will have a unique item, rather than one that has been mass-produced,” he added. At Murray’s, customers meet with a jeweler — not a salesperson, as occurs at many other stores — so they always receive the benefit of professional consultation, whether they’re designing a custom item, dropping off a jewelry repair, or simply choosing the most appropriate gift of jewelry for a particular person or occasion. A computer-aided design system

at Murray’s now allows jewelers to replicate extremely intricate designs and create items with exceptionally fine detail, Ryan said. Customers’ and jewelers’ designs are made on a computer, and then a computer-controlled mill makes a precision-cut wax model of the piece before it is cast in gold. “After the wax model has been created, the customer and jeweler examine it to make sure the customer’s idea has been executed perfectly,” he said. “Only when the customer is completely satisfied with the wax model is the actual gold item cast.” The computer design system has even made it possible for Murray’s to begin creating its own line of solid gold wristwatches, with the complete watch case designed, modeled and cast in the Muncie store. “Our first four gold watches are now on display in our store, and we are currently in the process of making the fifth one,” Ryan said. “Custom watchmaking is almost unheard of — so far, we’re only the second place we know of in the United States that is doing this — and it’s something we hope to do more of for many years.” Murray’s Jewelers is currently operated by fourth-generation Jewelers Steve and Todd Murray, and by Todd’s sons, Jewelers Ryan and James Murray, the fifth generation of the family to maintain the store. Darlene Murray, Ryan’s grandmother, and Janie Murray, his mother, also work in the store’s office. The store can be found at 113 W. Charles St. in downtown Muncie, on the web at murraysjewelers.com, or contacted by phone at 765-288-6791. Store hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9:30 to 5:30, Thursdays 9:30 to 7:00, and Saturdays 9:30 to 3:00.

4F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

“The fairgrounds serve a multitude of purposes and provide a community benefit for everyone.”

Delaware County Fair

— Larry Clendenin, vice-president of the Delaware County Fair Board.

By Ken Wickliffe

rawing from over 150 years of history and evolving every year, the Delaware County Fair remains an eagerly-anticipated midsummer tradition for area residents. But, while the fair is the biggest attraction held there, the local fairgrounds are busy all year long, with a craft show, flea market, wedding ceremony, dog show or similar event taking place practically every weekend, according to Larry Clendenin, vice-president of the Delaware County Fair Board. “The fairgrounds serve a multitude of purposes and provide a community benefit for everyone,” he said. “This is definitely not a oneweek-a-year operation — there’s something there all the time.” Heartland Hall, the newest building on the fairgrounds, replaces two older structures no longer standing — one that was dismantled and another destroyed by fire. “Heartland Hall is a sixty-foot by two-hundred foot building that’s conducive to all kinds of events and meetings,” Clendenin explained. “It has a kitchen, restrooms, a general meeting room and three large halls that are rented for many types of events, such as wedding receptions and craft shows.” During the fair, Heartland Hall functions as the Merchant’s Building, he added. Campsites at the fairgrounds have also been renovated and upgraded, with 172 sites total. Of those, 158 sites offer full recreational vehicle hookups, including 50-amp electrical service and city water connections. “The Muncie-Anderson Dog Show, held each August, is one major event that brings many campers to the fairgrounds,” Clendenin said.

“It would be hard to guess how many dogs are on the grounds during the show, but I know it’s well in excess of 1,000, with several show rings going at one time, as well as exhibitors of all kinds of canine products.” Another newer facility on the fairgrounds, an arena and judges‘ building, was contributed by the Delaware County 4-H Horse and Pony Club, he added. The 2010 Delaware County Fair, which will run from July 19-25, originated in 1852, and has been held at the current fairgrounds since 1881, when Jacob and Sarah Wysor sold the land to the Delaware County Commissioners, Clendenin said. Fair visitors will notice improvements to the grandstand this year, and can expect to enjoy both new and familiar fair events. “As in the past, we’ll have a full program for every day of the fair, with something on the free stage every day for people, ranging from music to all kinds of local talent,” he said. “One of the most popular events last year was hog wrestling — it turned out to be quite a crowdpleaser — so that will most likely be back.” The midway, which is operated by MidAmerica Shows, is consistently a popular and well-run component of the Delaware County Fair, Clendenin said. “Tremendously conscientious in the operation of its rides, Mid-America Shows has been recognized as one of the leading midway shows in the Midwest,” he said. “They consistently bring new rides — we had a new one last year, and they’ve told us we can expect another new one this year.” For more information on the Delaware County Fair and other events at the fairgrounds, contact the fair office at 288-1854.

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 5F

DILLMAN’S FURNITURE

6F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

By Stacey Shannon

or nearly 40 years John Dillman has been in the furniture business. Six years ago, Dillman’s Furniture moved to its current location in the Country Village Shopping Plaza on Wheeling Avenue. The move has been good for the store, which was previously located near the Muncie Mall. “We’ve pretty well tripled our size here,” John said. “We have been able to bring in different vendors and our on-sight warehouse is better.” Furniture is definitely a Dillman family business. At one time, the Dillman Family had six stores in Northern Indiana. These days John works with his wife Colette to run the store in Muncie. His children, 13-year-old Sarah and 8year-old Ryan, are already involved in the store as well. “We’re very family oriented,” John said. “And we’re here to stay.” A family man himself, John knows that family budgets can be tight. His store offers a wide line of furniture to fit into any budget. Dillman’s Furniture will open an Ashley brand Extreme Value Room in its lower level within the next couple of months. This room will concentrate on furniture for $399, including dinette sets, bedroom furniture and sofas. John plans to remodel the area, just as he has the rest of the store. “We’re going to repaint, carpet and get new lighting down there,” he said. Dillman’s Furniture also became the only local studio gallery for Flexsteel last year. John said the Flexsteel line of living room furniture has been very popular. Other popular brands include Bassett, Restonic, Eagle, Woodcrest, Flexsteel and “We just want to be available for people,” John said. “We want to have what they need when they come through the front door.” The store carries dining room furniture, living room furniture and accessories, bed-

room furniture for adults and children, home office furniture, mattresses and more. Dillman’s Furniture offers a wide variety in each category. For example, the store carries 28 models of mattresses. John said working with regional vendors is a priority as well. He looks for Indiana furniture makers as much as possible. Along with quality furniture at affordable prices, Dillman’s Furniture also focuses on customer service. John said many of his 15 employees have been with the store for at least five years. They work closely with customers to go above and beyond. “Usually my sales people know people who come through the door,” he said. Sales associates even will go to customer’s houses to help them design their rooms. “They don’t charge for that,” John said. “That’s something that they enjoy doing.” The sales staff also goes through a day of training every 90 days to stay on top of styles and be able to give the best advice and service. The delivery staff is dedicated to service as well. John said his delivery staff will setup new furniture and haul away or move old furniture. They also do repairs at the store, which means customers can call Dillman’s Furniture directly with issues instead of having to go through the manufacturer. “We concentrate a lot on service,” John said. “We try to be very convenient as far as service and delivery. We consider ourselves a full-service furniture store.” At the end of the day, John said he, his family and his staff are a part of the local community and want to honor that relationship. “We live in the community,” he said. “We see people on the streets. We want to be able to talk to them and not run away from them.” Dillman’s Furniture is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. For more information, call (765) 254-1893 or visit www. dillmanfurniture.net.

“We concentrate a lot on service. We try to be very convenient as far as service and delivery. We consider ourselves a full-service furniture store.” — John Dillman, owner

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 7F

8F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

“Minnetrista literally means ‘gathering place by the water.’ Our focus has always been on community engagement.”

MINNETRISTA

— Amanda Hicks, marketing manager for Minnetrista

By Steven Beverly

hat’s great about Minnetrista? Everyone seems to have her or his own unique answer to that question. Minnetrista finds a special place in the hearts and lives of those who have their own special Minnetrista experience! Whether you take a casual walk through the Minnetrista campus along White River Greenway, simply cruise through on Minnetrista Parkway and enjoy the beautiful flowers in the spring and summer, or visit one of the many exhibitions, you’ve had a Minnetrista experience. Joseph and Carol Trimmer from Muncie have been avid Minnetrista donors for many years. Their Minnetrista experience includes visiting exciting programs that Minnetrista offers throughout the year. “Minnetrista is important to us,” said Carol. “My husband and I both believe in the importance of the arts in our community.” From Farmers Market at Minnetrista to Enchanted Luminaria Walk, Minnetrista offers every person in surrounding communities the opportunity to have a unique relationship with Minnetrista. In fact, more than 88,000 people enjoyed a Minnetrista Experience in 2009. Among them was Helen Grahg from Muncie. Helen has been volunteering at Minnetrista for more than ten years. “Minnetrista offers an awful lot for Muncie and surrounding communities, and it’s a wonderful place to volunteer!” Helen’s Minnetrista experience includes the many new friends and people she has met when she volunteered her time. “I’ve enjoyed the experience. There’s so much you can see and learn and the people are always wonderful!” Minnetrista always has something new for visitors to experience. Fun, hands-on exhibits; conversation groups; inspiring art; and, of course, forty acres of beautifully maintained outdoor space in which to recharge and enjoy. Enjoy casually elegant shopping in the Orchard Shop and in the Center Shop at Minnetrista. Come visit Minnetrista. We have a Minnetrista experience ready for you!

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 9F

10F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

SILVERTOWNE

STAR PRESS CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS

roken necklace? Don’t wear those earrings anymore? Or, are you just willing to part with that ring for extra cash? For many ECI residents, the downturn in the economy has them saving every penny. And many need to find creative ways to earn a little extra to help pay the bills. One such way is selling gold, and locally, SilverTowne is the place to go. SilverTowne Coin Shop officially began in 1949 out of a cigar box in the Rainbow Restaurant in downtown Winchester, which Leon Hendrickson owned at the time. It soon outgrew its humble beginnings and was moved to the Hendrickson’s home in 1959. It took over the entire basement and was still being operated as a part-time business. But what was once an avocation is now a multimillion dollar business on the north-

Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. They pay by check only. If you have several pieces, call in to see if you will need an appointment. Be sure to have a valid driver’s license with you. Kristen Fields, marketing specialist at SilverTowne, says, “Just because your gold or silver coins are old doesn’t necessarily mean they’re worth a lot of money. Also, if you are unsure as to whether your item is silver or gold, give us a call - we can also test your item for free at our store”. (Coin appraisals are by appointment only. Call Gold is big business for customers On March 15, the gold market was around for details.) $1115.00 per ounce. That’s a big jump from 2006, when the going rate topped out at How it works just more than $600. The gold is separated into piles based “It wasn’t that long ago when it was on karats. Each of those piles is weighed. $200,” explains Tracy Rhoades, an employ- A pricing chart is used to determine how ee for over nine years. much the customer gets for each troy SilverTowne buys gold Monday ounce of gold (or by the pennyweight, if through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there is less than an ounce).

east side of Winchester. SilverTowne L.P, located at 120 E. Union City Pike, consists of a 23,000-square foot building with Coin, Gift, and Jewelry departments. A separate facility operated by SilverTowne custom makes coins in a wide array of metals for a broad spectrum of customers, including the military, businesses, individuals and churches. Each coin has its own custom die made and those with color are hand-painted.

Then, they take the gold and the customer gets a check. Once sold, the specialists at SilverTowne melt down the gold (they melt their gold at least twice a day). When enough gold is collected, it is sold to a refinery, which then gets that gold to people who will make more jewelry. Customer service is a priority The customer service at SilverTowne is based on Hendrickson’s personal philosophy of having a good attitude. “Attitude is very important in any business,” he said. “A good, positive attitude is probably the most important thing a person can have.” He’s conveyed that to his nearly 100 employees, many of whom have been with SilverTowne for 25 years or more. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to answer any questions you may have about buying and selling your gold and silver coins and jewelry.

“Attitude is very important in any business. A good, positive attitude is probably the most important thing a person can have.” — Leon Hendrickson, founder of SilverTowne

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 11F

12F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 13F

14F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

SCARED

TO PUT YOUR OTHER FOOT ON THE SCALE? Then you need to join Walk Indiana — the first annual walking marathon. Spnsored by Star Press Media, Ivy Tech and the Cardinal Greenway, Walk Indiana is a community wide event to help Delaware County residents get in shape. Be at the Muncie Mall on April 17 to get more details, training schedules and more!

WalkIndiana is brought to you by The Star Press, Ivy Tech, United Way and the Cardinal Greenway. Visit us online at: Twitter: @walkindiana Facebook: www.facebook.com/walkindiana

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 15F

VOGUE CLEANERS By Mike Feeney

n April 1st, 1974, Muncie native Bill Shroyer purchased Vogue Cleaners. Since that day, he has reinvented the concepts behind the simple dry-cleaning business. In fact, you may be surprised to discover the wide variety of services Vogue offers. “Many customers think it’s dry-cleaning only,” Shroyer said. “People come in and ask if we alter clothes. ‘Do you hem pants,’ they ask. We do so much more.” Vogue Cleaners offers a multitude of services including: window treatment cleaning, leather and suede cleaning, wedding gown repair and preservation, and yes- alterations. Vogue employs 4 experienced, full time seamstresses for all of your alteration needs. And of course, they will still press and clean your clothes. On top of all of that, four out of Vogue’s five convenient Muncie locations offer a quick and easy drive-through service. According to Shroyer, there are three key ingredients that make Vogue a successful business: a dedication to the highest quality, excellent customer service, and the loyalty and dedication of his beloved employees. “I have been blessed over the years with very good, and dedicated employees,” Shroyer said. The majority of Vogue’s employees have been with the company for a long time. Shroyer himself brings 54 years of experience to his business. Together, Shroyer and one of his most dedicated employees share over one hundred years in the business. “Ethel Shaw started two years after I did, and has been with us ever since,” he said.

The dry-cleaning industry has changed drastically over the years, a point that has not escaped Shroyer. “We have to stay one step ahead of the changes. We do that by maintaining state-ofthe-art equipment,” Shroyer said. Vogue is ahead of the curve when it comes to the technology that is necessary to service the high demands of today’s sophisticated customers. It is necessary to maintain the highest level of knowledge and technology as fabrics and materials that are made all around the world are brought in for cleaning, and Vogue is up to the challenge. Vogue offers a valuable Free Take Down & Rehang service for window treatments. A major point of pride for Shroyer is Vogue’s guarantee that window treatments, when returned, will maintain their original hemline and length. “No one else offers that guarantee,” he said. And there is good reason: Vogue utilizes specialized equipment unique in the Muncie area that ensures draperies remain the same size. Vogue’s Free Take Down & Rehang Service also includes Ultrasonic Blind Cleaning. This service not only cleans the blinds, but they brighten, deodorize, sanitize, and lubricate them as well. For more than five decades, Bill Shroyer has been a pillar of the Muncie business community. He started his laundry and cleaning career in 1955. Vogue is now a family-owned and operated business, deeply rooted in the local community and traditional values. Shroyer now works closely with his son and grandson to retain the strong traditions of highest quality and excellent customer service.

“I have been blessed over the years with very good, and dedicated employees. Ethel Shaw started two years after I did, and has been with us ever since.” — Bill Shroyer, owner

16F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

CARPETS PLUS COLORTILE By Mike Feeney

arpets Plus Colortile opened their doors in 2002, and have quickly become a full-service flooring outlet. When you first walk into Muncie’s largest carpet and flooring showroom, you are immediately struck with just how many options there are in varieties, colors, and styles of carpets. Even though some might find it hard to imagine, if you can’t find what you’re looking for in the showroom, you can even special order. And carpeting is only the tip of the iceberg. Carpets Plus Colortile offers extensive selections of laminates, hardwoods, vinyl, and ceramic tile. Tile options don’t stop at floors: Carpets Plus also offers expert installation of showers and backsplashes. Another item of note is rugs: not only does Carpets Plus offer area

Carpets Plus Colortile is part of a large buying group of 500 stores. This provides them with tremendous buying power … In turn, the customer enjoys more affordable carpet and flooring.

rugs, but they can create professional custom-made area rugs from their stock of carpets and carpet remnants. So, you can finally find a rug to tie that oddly shaped living room together. And yes, you just heard the magic word: Remnants. Carpets Plus offers those, too. A carpet remnant is the bit of carpet left at the end of a roll. Remnants can usually be found at discounted prices due to the fact that the amount is limited and can’t be used on the next large project. This brings us to an important point: what good is a vast array of flooring options if you can find it at a lower price just down the street? Well, in all likelihood, you can’t. That is because Carpets Plus Colortile is part of a large buying group of 590 stores. This provides them with tremendous buying power to purchase their supplies at reduced prices. In turn, the customer enjoys more affordable carpet and flooring. In fact, over 4,000 customers have discovered that Carpets Plus Colortile is very competitive in pricing for residential, commercial, and rental applications. For example, Carpets Plus expertly installed the flooring for the recently renovated Kennedy Library branch. And because it is conveniently located to Ball State, it’s also an obvious option when rental owners need to update worn out floors. Carpets Plus Colortile is a fullservice operation, complete with expert installers and knowledgeable salespeople. The staff offers a combined experience in the flooring industry of over 200 years. Locally owned primarily by Don and Dana Randall, even the television commercials feature the local staff members. When you walk in, you feel right at home with the Carpets Plus family.

FRED TOENGES

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 17F

red Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics has been in the business of comforting feet with better fitting shoes for over 119 years! Established in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1891, Fred Toenges Shoes opened the store here in Muncie in April of 1998, filling the void left behind by Clyde Edwards Shoes. The store carries a long list of popular and quality name brand shoes including: New Balance, SAS, Birkenstock, Dansko, Merrell, Ecco, PW Minor, Haflinger, Rockport and Florsheim. Their ability to fit any foot size and shape has always been at the forefront of Fred Toenges Shoes success. They carry women’s sizes from 5 to 13 in slim to extra wide widths. Men’s sizes range from size 7 to 16, in widths from narrow to extra wide! One of the major benefits that Fred Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics offers over all other retail shoe stores in Muncie is right there in the name… Pedorthics. Unfortunately, most consumers are unfamiliar with the term Pedorthics. Pedorthics is the science concerned with the design, manufacturing, fit and modification of related foot appliances or orthoses as prescribed by a physician, for relief of painful and disabling conditions of the foot and limb. Pedorthics is practiced

Experiencing amazing growth over the last 12 years has helped Fred Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics develop a strong trust from the public and Muncie medical practitioners alike. by a trained person called a Pedorthist. A Certified Pedorthist is a specialist in using footwear which includes shoes, shoe modifications, and foot orthoses to solve problems in or related to the foot and lower limb. A Certified Pedorthist can also provide minor pain and discomfort relief to anyone who is experiencing problems with common foot maladies like corns, calluses, bunions, hammertoes and other foot, leg, knee and back pain issues. Fred Toenges Shoes has some of the most experienced Certified Pedorthists in the area, on staff, full time at the store. Lydia Riggins has been a Board Certified Pedorthist for over 14 years, starting in the shoe business with the former Clyde

Edward Shoes, and has been with Fred Toenges Shoes since the store opened in 1998. All in all, Lydia has been in the retail shoe business, fitting shoes and taking care of feet for over 39 years. The newest addition to the Fred Toenges staff is Tim Cassity, a Board Eligible Pedorthist with over 3 years of experience. Their expertise can help customers with a variety of foot problems from common to extremely serious. Experiencing amazing growth over the last 12 years has helped Fred Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics develop a strong trust from the public and Muncie medical practitioners alike. The staff and management of Fred Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics in Muncie share a common philosophy, that walking should never be a painful experience… no matter what your age or medical condition. This is a challenge they meet every day, and is summed up in their ultimate comfort statement… “Fred Toenges Shoes and Pedorthics…we fit better.” The store is located in Wal Mart Plaza, next to hh Gregg. Hours are 9:30am to 6pm Monday - Friday, 9:30am to 5pm on Saturday. The store is closed on Sunday. For more information, visit: www.toengesshoes.com

FRISCO ENTERPRISES

18F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

By Ken Wickliffe

s 2010 marks the 25-year anniversary for Frisco Enterprises, Inc., excellent products and customer service and satisfaction are and have always the company’s top priority, according to Dave Francisco, the company president. All products sold by Frisco Enterprises are American-made, and the company has been selling and installing the Gutter Helmet system for over 20 years. “It gives us great satisfaction knowing that our thousands of senior customers no longer need to risk their own safety by climbing a ladder,” Francisco said. “We often hear from our customers that their Gutter Helmet purchase is the best money they’ve spent.” Introduced 30 years ago, Gutter Helmet is the original gutter protection system, with an innovative design that forever eliminates the need to clean gutters. Unlike many other products on the market, the Gutter Helmet has no holes or perforations to allow debris into the gutter,” he explained. “Water runs across the top of the Gutter Helmet, and then the principle of surface tension carries the rainwater around to the underside of the

cover, where the water then falls into the gutter.” The effectiveness of the Gutter Helmet system can be seen in the company’s warranty, Francisco added. “We back the Gutter Helmet with a lifetime warranty and performance guarantee,” he said. “If the gutter ever becomes clogged, we will clean it out for free. “We have the only system out there that totally frees the homeowner of the guttercleaning chore.” Failing to maintain a home’s gutter system properly can cause expensive damage to a home. “Gutters are there to channel water away from the home to prevent soil erosion, cracks in the foundation, and moisture problems in the basement or crawl space,” Francisco said. “If allowed to become clogged, gutters do not do their job and can allow water to remain near the home, where it begins to cause these types of damage.” For many homeowners, the Gutter Helmet is a much safer alternative to cleaning gutters, which can be a job that needs to be done up to several times a year, depending on the amount of tree cover around the home and other factors.

SunSetter Retractable Awnings, another product installed by Frisco Enterprises, enhance a home’s beauty and can lower air conditioning costs by reducing infiltration of ultraviolet light into the home. Affordable and custom-made to complement a home, SunSetter Retractable Awnings are available in motorized and manually-retractable models, and in a wide variety of colors, fabrics and designs. TopFlight flagpoles, which are American-made and have been awarded a Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval, are backed by a five-year warranty and constructed of maintenance-free, die-cast aluminum. Available in two designs — a 20-foot, telescoping vertical pole, and a six-foot pole that is mounted to the side of a home or other building, TopFlight flagpoles are designed to be the easiestto-use and most trouble-free flagpoles on the market. For information on the original Gutter Helmet gutter protection system, SunSetter Retractable Awnings or TopFlight flagpoles, contact Frisco Enterprises at (800) 5-HELMET (800543-5638), or online at friscohomeproducts.com.

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 19F

GINA’S

“We offer a one-on-one, personal shopping experience.” — Tonya Wilson, owner and manager

By Cynthia Downham

here was a time when Muncie offered several dress shops featuring one of a kind items. For the most part, those days are gone. That is why shopping at Gina’s is a uniquely pleasurable experience. Desiring to spend more time together, Tonia Wilson and her daughter Kristie Robinson purchased the boutique from the original owner and namesake, Gina, in November 2009. Kristie is also a full time realtor with ReMax Real Estate. Gina will also be involved with the store on a part-time basis. As the current owners, Tonia and Kristie, began to manage the business, they realized the need to accommodate more women looking for just the right look. Both know women want something above the ordinary fare, something that makes people take a second look. With that in mind, Gina’s has been offering designer attire available in both misses and petite sizes 2-18. They can special order other sizes when needed, plus Gina’s offers alterations, something unheard of in department store retailers. The boutique features merchandise from Tribal, Koret, Pendleton, Vintage Rose, City Girl, and many other trendy designers. Gina’s also offers Spanx and NYD Jeans, which in most minds are a revolution. “I love the tummy tuck panel in these jeans!” Kristie Robinson, Co-Owner. Devoted to customers who soon become friends, Tonia and Kristie often buy unique items from across the United States. Recently returned from a merchandising show in Las Vegas, Tonia looked thoughtfully about the store and pointed to various items they had purchased. Several items were selective purchases, guaranteeing a style all your own. Tonia explained how the

Gina’s experience is different from any ordinary shopping excursion. No matter what direction you turn, there is color, sparkle, and designer exclusives that resemble works of wearable art. Clothing is arranged by both color and designer. Typically, larger department-style stores carry multiple items purchased in mass and distributed throughout a chain of stores, while Gina’s is locally owned and operated, providing the personal sense of style so valued by Gina’s customers. “We offer a one on one, personal shopping experience.” Tonia Wilson, Co-Owner, Manager Gina’s Boutique is conveniently located on the corner at 101 East McGalliard Road. It is in the heart of many other shopping venues and has ample parking. For busy women on the go, this is a great feature. The store is large enough to provide a wide variety of merchandise but small enough not to overwhelm. Gina’s offers broaches to compliment a favorite scarf to casual wear, business attire, and accessories such as purses and scarves. One great feature about Gina’s is how they feel about their customers. At Gina’s, they become your personal stylist. They offer comfortable chairs to relax and enjoy a cup of warm coffee, while they work their magic and bring you versatile items such as reversible jackets with intricate detail or beaded shawls. Items like this give a special black dress a completely new style. Though Gina’s offers an array of designer items, they work hard to keep prices low. Often, Gina’s customers are mothers and daughters shopping together, proving Gina’s has something for everyone. When the occasion calls for something that says, “WOW,” look no further than Gina’s Boutique.

JACK’S CAMERA SHOP

20F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

“People who are just starting might be intimidated to come into a specialty shop. But they don’t need to feel that way. Everyone here is acquainted with helping beginning photographers.” — Tom Nahre, vice president and sales manager

By Stacey Shannon

hough technology has changed the imaging process since Jack’s Camera Shop opened in downtown Muncie in 1948, the customer service hasn’t. The long-time employees are still knowledgeable about their products and happy to help any customer — be it a novice or seasoned photographer. “People who are just starting might be intimidated to come into a specialty shop,” said Tom Nahre, vice president and sales manager of Jack’s Camera Shop. “But they don’t need to feel that way. Everyone here is acquainted with helping beginning photographers.” He added that the store’s prices are as competitive as bigger retailers, yet customers get help from an experienced staff. They are willing to spend the time necessary to meet customers’ needs; no one

is ever rushed into a buying decision. Along with selling new and used cameras, they also have a large selection of camera accessories, such as tripods, filters and camera bags. Jack’s Camera Shop offers classes and even one-on-one instruction for customers as well. Nahre said the instructors have at least 25 years experience at Jack’s Camera Shop and more than that in photography. Both Nahre and one other instructor are Certified Photographic Counselors, meaning they have passed industry tests. Jack’s Camera Shop also offers prints and other photo products, including photo books printed on site. Nahre said the photo books are printed on photographic paper and can be ready for pickup the same day. The staff can work with customers to custom design the books they want. Customers can also bring in their film or digital image files or even upload them and create their

own products through www.jackscamera.com. Jack’s Camera Shop also offers print sizes from locket to 44-inches wide in a variety of surfaces, including canvas. The shop also sells a selection of unique frames for displaying favorite prints. Nahre said the downtown location has been good for Jack’s Camera Shop. The store has parking lots for its customers in addition to street parking, so it offers easy access. “It’s very convenient in the heart of downtown,” he said. “You don’t have to hassle with the traffic on McGalliard.” Jack’s Camera Shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and Saturdays and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, stop by the store at 300 E. Main St., call (765) 282-0204 or visit www. jackscamera.com.

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 21F

LOWERY’S CANDIES By Ken Wickliffe

“We are one of the few remaining candy stores that still makes our own candy. Most have gone to private labeling: They sell candy under their own label, but it’s actually made somewhere else … ” — Vicki Brown, store manager

ince 1941, Lowery’s Candies has given Muncie-area residents, as well as connoisseurs from around the country, a chance to indulge their passion for the finest gourmet candies. Family-owned for its entire 69-year history, and still making nearly all of the candy it sells by hand, right in the Muncie store, Lowery’s has been a treasured part of Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and other occasions for generations. Closely-guarded recipes — and the knowledge that the old-fashioned way of making candy really is still the best — set Lowery’s apart from others, says Vicki Brown, the store manager. “We are one of the few remaining candy stores that still makes our own candy,” she explained. “Most have gone to private labeling: They sell candy under their own label, but it’s actually made somewhere else, by an outside concern.” Lowery’s is also one of the last candy makers in the nation that still hand-dips its chocolates, which is the only way to avoid the compromises that inevitably occur with mass-production, she added. As an example, design restrictions of candy-making machines require that crème-filled candies be produced with harder-textured crème centers, as well as a thinner chocolate coating. The result is a chocolate that neither looks nor tastes as good one that‘s been hand-dipped. “When your guests or gift recipients open a box of Lowery’s candy, they’ll know, even before the first taste, that you cared enough to present them with something very, very

special,” Brown said. “As for the taste, hand-dipping gives each piece an extra-generous coating of the best chocolate you’ve ever enjoyed.” Candy-lovers’ palates are continually evolving, she added, with consumers now showing a preference for nut-filled and other “crunchy” chocolate varieties. There is also a growing demand for dark chocolates, as studies have linked dark chocolate to certain health benefits. “Preferences change, but no matter what someone likes, our customers can get exactly what they like here,” Brown said. “Some of our most popular items include nut rolls, chocolate-covered cherries, and tiger paws, as well as our toffee, which is still hand-prepared in copper kettles. “Our Dark Secret has been a favorite for the entire 69-year history of our store,” she added. “Made with a secret recipe and ingredients, it’s an oblong delicacy only available in dark chocolate, with a rich crème center.” From the famous “Indiana Bar,” a chocolate bar shaped like the Hoosier State, to chocolate-covered nuts, to dipped caramels and cashew cups — plus assortments for those who just can’t decide — all of Lowery’s products are always freshly-made and available at the local store, which has been located at 6255 W. Kilgore Ave. for the last 46 years. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday, and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday. Telephone orders are also welcome, and accepted locally at (765) 288-7300, and toll-free at (800) 541-3340. Customers can also order on the store’s website, loweryscandies.com, which features all products, including pictures and descriptions.

22F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT

RESTAURANT 2(oh!)4 By Stacey Shannon

“I think we’re unique because we try to be unique. We try to look for the uncommon …” — Tom Green, owner of the Blue Bottle and Restaurant 2(oh!)4

om Green has always wanted to open a bistro with an intimate atmosphere that features locally produced items. The professional pilot first bought the Blue Bottle coffee shop in downtown Muncie in December of 2007. He started by adding more food items to the menu at Blue Bottle. Then when he got a chance to expand and add a restaurant in the adjacent building last year, he went for it. Restaurant 2(oh!)4, named for its address at 204 S. Walnut St., opened in November. “We wanted to be able to offer something that wasn’t run-of-the-mill, standard, ordinary fare,” Green said. 2(oh!)4 serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. According to Green, an ever increasing percentage of the restaurant’s food is organic or pasture-raised and local. “Most of our produce, meats and poultry come from within 100 miles of Delaware County,” he said. While the restaurant has a set menu, it also has daily specials based on what fresh ingredients the chefs are able to find for the day. Green said they always know what will be on the menu for the current day, but don’t always know what will be served the next day. Since the menu changes daily Green makes sure his staff is well informed. Before dinner service, the staff meets to discuss and taste specials so they can answer questions for customers. “When we do special menus that people don’t know what it is, we want them to ask us so we can explain what it is and how it’s done,” Green said. Because almost everything is madeto-order, the restaurant can usually accommodate special requests from patrons.

Breakfast, which is served mornings and all day on Sundays, includes popular items such as breakfast bagel sandwiches and the Blue Bottle Benedict, which is two eggs over biscuits with roast pork and brown pork gravy. Green said wraps are also popular including a spinach wrap with two eggs, humus, feta cheese, onion, tomato and bacon. “I think we’re unique because we try to be unique,” he said. “We try to look for the uncommon and present it in a way that won’t scare off the customer. We’re not afraid to try something new, and we try to cater to customers who aren’t afraid to try something that’s not what they would normally find on another menu in town.” The lunch menu is filled with sandwiches and soups. Green said 2(oh!)4’s 1/2-pound hamburgers are always popular. Each day brings a different hamburger special, such as the bleu cheese burger on Tuesdays. Vegetarians are not left out of the mix either. Many vegetarian options are on the menu as well as vegetarian options and tofu can be substituted in a lot of the entrees. Finally, dinner includes sandwiches but also more substantial entrees such as roast pork and roast chicken and steaks as well as dinner specials that change almost nightly. 2(oh!)4 also offers an eclectic range of appetizers such as roasted red peppers with goat cheese, fried anchovies with butter and fresh bread, grilled spring rolls and a sausage and cheese plate. 2(oh!)4 is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Both 2(oh!)4 and the Blue Bottle can be reached at (765) 284-3630 or online at www.bluebottlecoffee.com and www.2oh4.com.

ADVERTISEMENT Sunday, March 21, 2010 • 23F

WHITE RIVER LANDING By Shannon Burns

“The kids who work here are awesome. They are very loyal and take ownership in their jobs. That’s what makes it easy for us.” — Kathy Wardlow, owner

hite River Landing, located at 117 W. Charles Street, has been a popular downtown dining spot since 2000. The restaurant is stylized after the previous owners Mike and Marcia Thompson’s hometown in Michigan. The cabin feel, fishing motif, and nostalgic décor reminded them of their roots. In the early part of 2009, Mike and Marcia decided to retire and move back to Michigan. In choosing a new owner, the Thompson’s wanted to ensure that the restaurant would remain the great place many people have grown to know and love. The search of new ownership commenced and they successfully found the perfect match. On September 1, 2009, Kathy Wardlow and Andy Watkins, a mother and son team, took ownership of the restaurant. “Everything fell into place for us,” said Kathy. “We’ve always loved the Landing.” Andy had worked at the Landing during his college years, and even lived in one of the apartments located above the restaurant. With Andy’s restaurant experience and Kathy’s business experience, they make a great team. Under the new ownership, White River Landing kept the menu the same, keeping favorites regular patrons return for daily, but also adding some new items. On the menu daily are homemade lunch and dinner specials. These specials include; their delicious Beef Manhattan, Chicken and Noodles, Meatloaf, and Salmon Patties. Although most of the entrees stick to the rule of “baked not fried,” Kathy and Andy have recently began a Fried Fish Basket special on the

weekends. Weekends bring much excitement to the restaurant. Every other weekend live music is performed, and both steak and fresh fish such as Tilapia are offered. Further possibilities were sparked by the recent addition of Ivy Tech facilities to the downtown area. “We are very excited to have Ivy Tech joining us downtown,” Kathy said. It’s an exciting time for downtown Muncie. To accommodate the new arrival of Ivy Tech students and faculty, as well as the downtown business people, White River Landing has chosen to expand their operation with the opening of “The Landing to Go” that opened March 17. The Landing to Go features deli style sandwiches made to order, chips, soft drinks, and freshly baked Otis Spunkmeyer cookies. The menu includes quickly made items priced to fit into students’ budgets. Of course, White River Landing could not operate without its exceptional staff. Kathy attributes much of the restaurant’s success to her staff, which is comprised mostly of students. “We would not be successful without our staff,” she says. “The kids who work here are awesome. They are very loyal and take ownership in their jobs. That’s what makes it easy for us.” White River Landing has a patio for summer dining and a large dining area that will hold parties up to 40 people. Often, private business meetings, wedding showers, and birthdays are held in this room. The restaurant’s hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sundays 11:00 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information visit www. whiteriverlanding.com or call 765) 286-8133.

24F • Sunday, March 21, 2010 ADVERTISEMENT