Congrats to those students who received scholarships from the Builders Association of Elkhart County and Builders Association North Central Indiana. We have articles announcing the scholarship winners for both organizations. If you ask me what the theme for this month’s issue is, I’d have to say it’s spending time outside. We have a preview of both the Elkhart and Kosciusko county fairs. Kosciusko will have its fair at the beginning of the month, while Elkhart will have its fair the last week of July.
As I write this, we are less than 50 days from the opening of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. I’ve been a part of this fair for 23 years as a leader of the Elkhart County 4-H Media Club. This club, which started in 1988, publishes a five-day newspaper during Fair Week. Club
members graciously shared photos they took last year for Nikki Stout’s preview article.
Nikki also wrote a feature on Jason Wogoman, this year’s fair board president for the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.
If going to the fair isn’t your thing, maybe checking out the local hiking and biking trails throughout HomeLiving’s readership area is. Whether it be riding a road bike or looking for the next challenging mountain biking trail, we’ve provided a cross section of what’s available.
And summer wouldn’t be the same without a concert in the park. We’ve highlighted several communities that offer a free concert series during the summer months. All you need is a lawn chair or blanket, a picnic supper and maybe some bug spray.
Growing up in South Bend, I remember the family packing up the car to attend the Firefly concerts at
St. Patrick’s County Park. One of my favorite memories is going to a free outdoor concert at Jennings Beach in Fairfield, Conn. Mom, Joel and I had just arrived at my grandparents house and Grandpa suggested we check it out. It was a great evening — Joel and I played by the water’s edge while Grandpa and Mom chatted. Grandpa topped the night off by introducing Joel and me to Heavenly Hash ice cream, which he described as similar to Rocky Road, but better. And it was.
And summer is a great time to paint a room - since you can open the windows and the paint dries a tad faster. Julie Young penned an article on what’s new for paint trends these days.
So I hope you enjoy this latest issue of HomeLiving, and maybe I’ll see you at the fair.
Enjoy!
Put your best
F O OT forward
Area trails to tackle
Thanks to extended daylight hours, vibrant scenery and accessible routes close to home, there is no reason not to get a leg up on your resolve to get out and about this summer and go hiking or biking! With more than 61 trails covering more than 4,655 miles, you are certain to find a trail that is right for you.Whether you are a beginner or a weekend warrior looking for a new challenge, we’ve got options to help you put your best foot forward!
By Julie Young
HomeLiving Feature Writer
Pumpkinvine Trail Network
Connecting Goshen, Middlebury and Shipshewana, the Pumkinvine Trail Network consists of the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, the Maple City Greenway, River Greenway Trail, and the MapleHeart Trail, which total 25 miles. The asphalt surfaces make these trails perfect for all levels of hikers and cyclists and are connected to four area parks for easy access.
Winona Lake Trail System
The Link. Connecting the University of Notre Dame to the heart of downtown South Bend, folks can connect to the well-lit, dedicated running, walking and /biking trail at the corner of Angela Boulevard and Notre Dame Avenue. Through The Link, the 1.5-mile trek to downtown is much more scenic and enjoyable.
The Winona Lake Trail System in Warsaw officially started in 1998 and features nine miles of trails that wind through the trees, along Cherry Creek, and across the open spaces of the old Chicago Boy Scout Camp. This trail has a little bit of everything from challenging uphill climbs, quick descents and fun flat sections for a perfect afternoon adventure!
Potato Creek State Park
With 7.7 miles of mountain bike trails that are great for beginners, Potato Creek State Park offers scenic views without a lot of obstacle challenges. However, more experienced riders will find that it is a trail system designed with speed in mind and perfect for an adrenaline rush!
Bendix Woods County Park
Located in New Carlisle, the Bendix Woods County Park has a 6.5-mile mountain bike trail that is considered moderately challenging for riders who enjoy twists and turns, but also connects to popular hiking and running trails so keep an eye out for pedestrians. Pro tip: Be off the trail by closing time or risk getting locked in.
Syracuse-Wawasee Trail
Founded in 2004 as a 501(c)(3) organization, the SyracuseWawasee Trails are an immersive, extensive, and educational trail system that encourages physical activity and overall health benefits through movement. The mission of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails is to provide a safe, scenic and educational trail system that connects the community of Syracuse and beyond. The trails segments, including Mud Lake, the Eli Lilly Loop, and the Conklin Bay Boardwalk showcase the area’s beautiful waterways, local amenities and surrounding landscapes.
Old Chinworth Bridge Trail
Originally built in 1897, the historic iron bridge spanning the Tippecanoe River is a great getaway for the walker or biker looking for a small, easy-to-master-route. Nearly two miles long, and part of the Lake City Greenway, folks can learn some local history as they travel along the asphalt trail. The Old Chinworth Bridge itself belongs to the Kosciusko County Historical Society and is on the National Register of Historic Places but was originally built on the township line that separated Chief Mota’s reservation from Chief Checosee’s reservation.
Indiana + Michigan River Valley Trail
Stretching 17-miles from Niles, Mich. to downtown Mishawaka, the Indiana + Michigan River Valley Trail system runs mainly along the St. Joseph River and includes a number of points of interest including the University of Notre Dame, St. Patrick’s County Park and the Mishawaka Riverwalk. n
Color your world
Pain ting t echniques for 2026
Summer is a great time to color your world with a fresh coat of paint! The longer daylight hours provide better visibility to judge how your new hue plays on your walls, while the warm, dry weather speeds up curing times and allows for better ventilation. However, before you begin, it is important to find out what’s on trend in terms of painting techniques. This year’s looks range from warm, earthy palettes to nature-inspired storytelling and gradient shading for a layered, polished look!
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
Gradient shades.
If 2025 was all about color drenching, then 2026 is the year of the gradient shade, which employs light- to-dark shades in the same color family for maximum effect. This technique can be used with a variety of earth hues ranging from deep brown to oatmeal but can also be deployed with bolder colors such as ocean-inspired blues, forest greens and more. This look can be achieved in a variety of ways but tends to look best by using your deepest shade closer to the floor to ground the space then adding the lighter colors to open up the room. (Don’t forget to include the ceiling in your painting plans for a truly cohesive look.)
Pro tip: Gradient geometric shapes offer a structured, subtle illusion as well as depth and texture to a room. This can be incorporated into an accent wall for a truly one-of-a-kind look.
Earth
tones.
Nature-inspired earth tones such as warm terracotta, sandy beige, olive green and deep umber offer a sense of warmth, balance and harmony to any room. Coupled with a range of bold and neutral colors, these versatile and timeless looks tend to age gracefully and maintain their style longer than other trendy hues. When choosing an earthbased tone, consider the room’s purpose. A deep shade can create a sense of intimacy in a bedroom, dining room or other living space while lighter shades can make even the smallest room feel light and airy.
Pro tip: Some homeowners are taking their earth-tone palette and creating abstract murals for a fun flair. They are also adding interest to a room with a bold and dramatic accent wall in a deeper shade to pull the eye to a specific spot.
Finish it right.
Get a feel for it.
Textured paint finishes continue to make a splash because of their ability to add tactile depth to a wall color. This can be a great way to conceal an imperfection or add something unexpected and new. Venetian plaster offers a smooth, slightly shiny finish with additional depth while ragging or sponging can provide a space with soft patterns and surface variation. Sand texture can offer your home a more rustic look or a more coastal vibe while brushedon textures give folks a chance to get creative with the finished look.
Pro tip: While many of these textured finishes can be a great DIY project, it may be best to go with the pros if you are unsure about executing it.
If you are not sure what type of finish you need for your 2026 redux, consider matte or other non-reflective surfaces on your walls and ceilings to create organic depth while using high gloss lacquer for a richer look on your trim, doors and cabinetry.
Pro tip: Try it before you buy it. Because these modern and complex colors can vary significantly in natural light, be sure to test your paint colors and finishes before committing to your new look! n
Sunday
Watch the parade at 2 p.m. and then have some homemade ice cream in the Echoes Area. There are opening ceremonies, a gospel sing and a horse pull to round out your day.
Kosciusko County Fair celebrating 109 years
Monday
This is your day for Tiger Encounters and Dino Adventures (twice for each event). There’s also an oldtime sawmill demonstration and a motorized horse show in the grandstands.
Tuesday
This is Kiddie Day, starting with free breakfast for the kids. Meet Bluey and Bingo, get a balloon animal and a caricature! There’s a barnyard wild animal show, and on the other end of the spectrum? An Xtreme Monster Madness pit party! Feast on sweet corn and more homemade ice cream.
Wednesday
Senior Day! Free breakfast for the seniors, bingo, a magic show and a barbershop quartet. You want more? An ice cream social, pie baking judging and cast iron chili.
The Kosciusko County Fair has been entertaining, educating and celebrating for 109 years! So what can you see and do this year?
By Bethanne Brink-Cox
HomeLiving Feature Writer
The fair runs July 12-18. Admission on opening day is free; children under age 9 are always free, and after the first day, seniors get in for $3, with $8 for everyone else (at the door or purchased online). The gates are open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
visitindiana.in.gov
And this is just a small selection of all the things you can see and do. There will be all kinds of vendors with food and games, the rides are open at 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 1 p.m. Saturday.
You’ll see the 2026 Kosciusko County Fair Queen throughout the week, which is always special when she’s one of our own. There are two categories–Teen for ages 13-17, and Miss, for 18-21. The girls can feel comfortable with no swimsuit or talent categories; they all have lots more to offer than just those two things! And they all were encouraged to participate in a series of workshops, for poise and stage, for interview and speech, and then rehearsal, so their confidence comes shining through. Scholarships and other opportunities are always welcomed, as plans for the future begin to take shape.
The fair is the time when those in my house eat oncea-year treats, like elephant ears and mini doughnuts, and tenderloin sandwiches and fries. Sundae nachos, anyone? Lemon shakeups? Gyros, corn dogs and street tacos? Pulled pork or Italian sausages? Doughnut burgers? Chocolate covered cheesecake? And no trip would be complete without cotton candy and kettle or caramel corn. Go in search of any or all of these items that have been offered in previous years, and who knows what you’ll find this year! (And then you can waddle home, like we do.)
The Papers Inc.
Remember, the 4-H’ers will be exhibiting the animals they have worked so hard to raise and train. There will be all sorts of wonderful things locally and expertly made; you won’t want to miss any of that.
And remember, too, while you’re walking around, enjoying the sights and smells and music and just everything: our fair has a Mission Statement. On their page, you’ll find it:
The Mission of the Kosciusko County Community Fair is to provide – Education regarding agriculture–past, present and future – Experiences with positive competition – Enjoyment of wholesome entertainment, social interactions and lasting memories
With the five core values of youth, community, agriculture, education and entertainment, the fair offers something for everyone and guarantees a wonderful time for everyone attending. Come on out! n
Thursday
Ham and beans, a Kosciusko’s Got Talent Show, more dinos and tigers and a rodeo!
Friday
Hot dog eating contest, raffle drawing, presentation of club and community fair awards and a Demolition Derby!
Saturday
Show and Shine judging and a truck and tractor pull!
The Papers Inc.
COLLABORATION
Wogoman shares the between fair, 4-H and community
By Nicholette Stout
HomeLiving Feature Writer
Jason Wogoman is the 2026 Elkhart County 4-H Fair president with a legacy of fair board members behind him. He is a third-generation fair board member and perhaps the first legacy president since his father was also a fair board president. He has been on the fair board for six years, owns the local business, Middlebury Electric, and is a retired firefighter.
While he grew up on the fair side of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair, he did not participate in the 4-H side himself. However, his wife was in 4-H and his daughter was a 10-year 4-H member. Another fact that sets him apart from other presidents is, typically they are an executive member for many years, but he was not, and he is perhaps the youngest fair board president. “It means more to me to be selected as fair board president because you are selected by your peers and volunteers,” Wogoman explained. “I never saw it coming and I’m grateful to have been considered.”
His theme for this year is “Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community.” Fair and 4-H staff and volunteers are driven by a purpose to serve the county’s youth, agriculture and families. However, this purpose could not happen without all the people behind the scenes. These people include the fair board and staff, fair volunteers, 4-H staff and volunteers, 4-H members, families, local sponsors and other community partners. It also includes all the community members who come out to visit and support the fair each year. “The fair isn’t something that happens to the community,” Wogoman stressed. “They are a part of it.”
Wogoman’s normal role at the fair is the
director of safety and security, overseeing the police, fire and EMS. It is a busy role, typically receiving between 30 and 100 phone calls each day of the fair about a variety of troubleshooting concerns, including erratic driving, someone hurt or other potential safety concerns. His role as fair board president was announced last July, and he took over in October. Since then, he has been working hard, focusing on meetings and phone calls. He typically spends between 20 and 50 hours a week on meetings and phone calls, with the number increasing the closer it gets to the fair. However, this year his role is being filled by other staff and volunteers so that during the nine days of fair, he is able to enjoy his hard work and fulfill his duties as president.
As president, he rides in the parade and participates in a variety of club activities throughout the week. “I always look forward to the concerts and food each year,” he stated. “Over the nine days, I choose something different for every meal.” He will also be attending all of the concerts this year. “I like seeing the people come out and having a good time, enjoying the fair and events with their families.” There are 130 volunteers who are each in charge of a different area, and his job is to coor-
dinate everything, make sure everything is ready to go and check in with the volunteers to see what they need and what he can do to help them.
This year, the cheerleading competition is returning. The popular silent disco will also be back. The Brick Barn will give fairgoers a LEGO exhibit experience. There will also be information regarding the expansion project that is planned to break ground in September. This includes barn expansions, a new community center, a new fire and EMS building, more handicapped parking, moving gate G, a water remediation project and a new campground add-on with a full hookup. “The fairgrounds next year will look nothing like the fairgrounds this year,” he said. n
aroundmichiana
YEAR-ROUND | MIDDLEBURY TRAIL TALES
Bring the family outdoors to read a children's book while walking a short path at Riverbend Park; book pages are placed in special kiosks along the path. New books are installed monthly. Event partners are the Middlebury Public Library and Middlebury Parks Department.
NOW - SEPT. 6 | WARSAW LAKE CITY SKI SHOW
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Sundays 2455 Hidden Lake Drive
Admission and parking are free. Concessions available.
Visit lakecityskiers.org or call (574) 373-0703 for more information.
NOW - SEPT. 24 | MIDDLEBURY MIDDLEBURY ESSENHAUS
CLASSIC CAR CRUISE-IN
Das Dutchman Essenhaus 240 US 20
Thursdays, 4:30 -8:30 p.m.
Registering your classic ride is free and includes coupons to the Essenhaus Restaurant and the Essenhaus Village Shops.
For more information visit essenhaus.com.
NOW - SEPT. 30 | SHIPSHEWANA SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET
345 S Van Buren St.
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Every Tuesday and Wednesday.
JULY 1-30 | SOUTH BEND SOUTH BEND FARMERS MARKET
Indoor market featuring homegrown produce, dairy products, meats, eggs, maple syrup, jams and jellies, handcrafts, artwork, jewelry and more.
7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Free admission.
Gates open noon, Friday, July 10, with show starting at 6 p.m.
For tickets visit ticketsqueeze.com.
JULY 11 | ELKHART RUTHMERE CERAMIC SHOWCASE
Ruthmere Museum
302 E. Beardsley Ave.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Ceramic Showcase is one of Ruthmere’s busiest marquee events of the year with many hundreds in attendance.
Admission is free.
JULY 12-18 | WARSAW KOSCIUSKO COUNTY FAIR
1400 E. Smith St.
The 109th Kosciusko County Fair in Warsaw, IN, scheduled for July 12-18, 2026, is a family friendly event featuring 4-H exhibits, carnival rides, grandstand events and local food vendors. For tickets visit kcfair.com.
JULY 24-AUG. 1 | GOSHEN ELKHART COUNTY 4-H FAIR
17746-D CR 34
A family friendly event featuring 4-H exhibits, carnival rides, grandstand evens and local food vendors.
For more information visit info@4hfair. org.
JULY 25 | SOUTH BEND
THE DINNER DETECTIVE TRUE CRIME DINNER SHOW
Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame
1140 E Angela Blvd.
Admission is $71.31.
For more information go to visitsouthbend.com/events/the-dinner-detectivetrue-crime-murder-mystery-dinnershow-south-bend-in-3.
JULY 25 | NORTH WEBSTER 18TH ANNUAL DIXIE DAY
403 S. Dixie Drive
The Popeye and Olive Oil 5K benefiting the North Webster Food Pantry will kick off with packet pickup at 6:45 a.m. and a race start time of 8:00 a.m.
Craft and Food Vendors will open at 9 a.m. on Pilcher’s Lawn and down Washington St. Enjoy the judged Car and Truck Show at the Mermaid Fairgrounds. In celebration of the Dixie Sternwheeler, take a cruise around North Webster. Extra cruises available during the day.
JULY 30 | SOUTH
BEND GLOW O’NIGHT ORIENTEERING
8:30-10:30 p.m.
St. Patrick’s Park 50651 Laurel Road
Using maps and lanterns, navigate the terrain of St. Patrick’s County Park in search of glowing markers. Wear your brightest neon to add to the fun! Registration and payment required by Tuesday, July 28.
For more information and to register visit sjcparks.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=4654. n
E
photos: The Elkhart County 4-H Media Club
This year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair brings family, food, entertainment and fun together for nine days in Goshen. It kicks off on Friday, July 24, and finishes up on Saturday, Aug. 1. This year’s theme is “Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community.” It reflects the number of people who all work together to make the fair possible - from board members, 4-H members and leaders, sponsors, volunteers, families and other community partners.
By Nicholette Stout HomeLiving Feature Writer
Special days throughout the nine-day fair include $5 First Friday, Hometown Hero Day, Free Day, Disabilities Awareness Day, Senior Day, Kids Day and Noche Latina. Admission tickets can be pre-purchased for $8 or are $10 at the gate. On weekdays, a lunch pass for the fair is also available. Those interested should visit the ticket booth at Gate G or the fair office between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., pay a $10 cash deposit and, if the lunch pass is returned by 2 p.m., receive a full refund of the deposit. Parking is complimentary.
Over 3,000 local 4-H members spend months raising and caring for animals and livestock and preparing projects. These projects include livestock shows and judging, photography, robotics, fashion, creative arts and many more. Non-livestock projects will be on display in the Elkhart County Community Center.
Meanwhile, many fairgoers enjoy visiting the fairgrounds each year for the food, rides and entertainment. Wristbands and tickets are available for presale or can be purchased the day of the event. Wristband days are from 12:30-11 p.m. Friday, July 24; 1-11 p.m. Monday, July 27, and Thursday, July 30; and noon-6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1. From 10 a.m. to noon, Monday, July 27, rides will be sensory friendly with minimal lights and sounds and are free during that time. There is a special Kiddieland wristband from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 29. This year’s concert lineup includes: Ludacris, Brett Young, Charley Crockett and Anne Wilson. Other favorite annual events include the tractor pull, monster trucks and rodeo. Tickets for the grandstand events can be purchased online
or at the fairgrounds, based on availability.
Once again, Heritage Park is full of family-friendly activities. This includes the annual fair queen pageant and senior pageant, the princess party, a silent disco, youth fellowship and worship night, Zoo to You from the Potawatomi Zoo, a youth and family talent contest, as well as live musical entertainment throughout the week. There is also the youth agriculture area, which includes the farm-to-market tractor driving, the miracle of life exhibit and Young MacDonald’s Barn.
This year’s Brick Barn will feature brick-building displays and hands-on activities. The goat silo allows visitors to watch the goats climb, play and relax in the farmstead barn. Visitors to the fair also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of competitions or contests. This includes the arm-wrestling competitions, a pie eating competition, a food eating contest, a cheerleading competition, a 3-on-3 basketball competition, a cornhole tournament and cast iron skillet toss.
Hot Diggity Dogs and More will have performing animals with daily shows at the Jayco Family Fun Center. The Fearless Flores Thrill Show will also have daily gravity-defying feats at the Hollyhock Entertainment Center.
“The fair has always been about bringing people together,” Jason Wogoman, 2026 fair board president, stated. “Whether you’re showing a livestock project, competing in a contest, attending a concert, volunteering your time or simply spending the day with family and friends, you’re part of what makes this fair special.” n
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HOMELIVING
Free concerts a summer staple
By Bethanne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
Of all the things to enjoy in the summertime – days at the lake, block parties and barbecues – there’s nothing quite like outdoor concerts. They’re so laid back, literally, when you put a blanket on the ground and settle in. (Okay, you can use chairs if you prefer, but you know what I mean.)
We are surrounded by wonderful concerts here in our area, and they’re in every direction. Brianna Petgen, office manager for the City of Elkhart, says “there’s a little bit of everything in various locations – “Rhapsody, which is two days along the river in Island Park; in August, you can attend the Downtown Music event Aug. 7-9, which is live and free. And of course, there’s the Elkhart Jazz Festival in June,” a huge event with more than 100 performers, a muchloved tradition since 1988. “Once a month at NIBCO Water and Ice Park is the Summer Chill series, on the third Friday of each month – July 17, Aug. 21, and Sept. 18. Sandwiched in between the August and September shows, you can see The Island of Blues on Sept. 12!”
Or maybe you’d like to attend the Curbside Concert Series, which runs mostly Fridays and some Saturdays, May 22-Sept. 25. That’s a lot of fun, and you’re sure to discover some new talent among the many performers. And one more thing about this series? It’s on the roof of the downtown branch of the Elkhart Public Library. (Yes, really!) That means the performers are on the roof; you’ll be in the parking lot, and there will be vendors there as well, so you can eat, drink and be merry. You can see their schedule here: myepl.org/events/category/music.
Sam Householder, communications manager for the library, said this series is funded by a grant, from the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Well Crafted. “We also work it into our
yearly operating budget,” he explained. This the seventh season for the concerts. When asked if they’re well attended, Householder re plied, “Oh yeah, yeah, we’ve had as many as 700 or 800 at some of the shows, and we turn out a couple of hundred each time, at least.”
Lynnae Miller is the recreation administrative assistant for Warsaw Parks and Recreation, and she said, “We rotate be tween two different facilities. I mean, they’re both outside, but we go back and forth between the Central Park Plaza, or Lucerne Park Ampitheater.” She continued “There will be nine concerts this season, all on Friday evenings,” and they, too, are well attended.
Miller said the main funding for these concerts comes from a grant given by Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and “We also have sponsors each year.” warsaw.in.gov/201/Concerts.
Fridays by the Fountain has returned to the Jon R. Hunt Plaza in front of the Morris Performing Arts Center, 211 N. Michigan St. Stop by from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Fridays enjoy a free concert. A variety of music genres are showcased from blues and jazz to rock, folk, Irish tunes and more.
Mishawaka is hosting free weekly concerts on multiple stages around the city. Concerts are from 7-8:30 p.m. Visit southbend.com/events/mishawaka-summer-concert-series for more information.
Are you writing all this down in your calendar, making plans? You will have a wonderful summer, wherever you attend, whatever you hear, and before you know it, you may become a regular! Here’s another link for you to check out: visitelkhartcounty.com/blog/post/where-to-seelive-music-in-elkhart-county.
Dig out your lawn chairs and picnic baskets, and have a good time. However and wherever you hear it, music is here to stay. n
BANCI Awards Scholarships
By Deb Patterson Editor-in-Chief, The Papers Inc.
Seven area students received scholarships May 26, during the general membership meeting of the Builders Association of North Central Indiana. Each scholarship was worth $1,000.
Drew Bingamon, Finley Bailey, Ty Brooks, Mason Shoemaker, Dylan Barkey, Cora Ransbottom and Griffin Williman were this year’s recipients. This marks the fifth year BANCI has presented scholarships to students pursuing careers in the construction industry.
Bingamon will attend the Carpenters Training Center. Bailey, Shoemaker, Barkey and Ransbottom will attend Ball State University to study architecture. Brooks will attend Indiana State University to study engineering and construction management. Williman will attend the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.
The scholarships were presented by Julia Moore and Matt Podlesak of the scholarship committee.
Jackie Wyatt, executive director of BANCI, explained each scholarship applicant had to fill out an application form, provide two letters of recommendation from either their employer or a school faculty member, provide employment information, current high school transcript and write an essay regarding their future plans and how their career plans would benefit the construction industry. Students must
also reside in Kosciusko, Fulton or Marshall counties. Homeschool students are eligible and invited to apply for the scholarship.
“We like to see they are going to school for something in the construction industry,” she said. One recipient explained how his business degree would benefit the construction industry.
BANCI has been awarding scholarships for five years and has established a scholarship committee to review applications. Wyatt said she and the committee would like to see more students apply for the scholarships. This year only eight students applied and seven scholarships were awarded.
The scholarship is renewable while the student is attending school. Those seeking renewal must go through the same application process. This year, five of the scholarships were renewals and two were new.
“There’s more to it than swinging a hammer,” she said about the scholarship requirements. “There are so many aspects to the construction industry.”
For more information about the scholarship visit buidnci.com. n
Shown are four of the seven students receiving $1,000 scholarships from the Builders Association of North Central Indiana. From left are Dylan Barkey, Mason Shoemaker, Griffin Williman and Cora Ransbottom. Not shown are Drew Bingamon, Finley Bailey and Ty Brooks.
BANCI
BAEC announces scholarship winners
The Build Your Future Foundation, a nonprofit organization under the umbrella of the BAEC, has awarded its first Alvin J. Miller Scholarship to Braden Hix, a graduating senior from NorthWood High School. Hix, who is heading into the construction field, was recommended by his Industrial Technology Teacher, Bruce Cannaday.
“Braden has the ability to foresee problems (and to) start setting up for the next process. He is innovative in his problem-solving and is a team player, with no task beneath him. Hix is a respon-
The Builders Association of Elkhart County has announced the winners of the Alvin J. Miller Scholarship and its member scholarships.
sible young man, with the ability to work with anyone. He would be a great addition to any company, organization or institution,” said Cannaday.
This year, BYF was approached by the Alvin J.Miller family with several monetary donations in memory of their father. Miller worked in the RV industry for many years and was co-owner of DNA Enterprises in Goshen. “He was a jack-of-all trades and could build or fix anything,” said his daughter, Melinda Miller.
“We thought it would be a wonderful way to honor him - through young people who are working to keep trade careers alive in the community.”
Four students received $1,000 member scholarships this year. Each year, the BAEC awards member scholarships to students already enrolled or heading to an accredited university, college, junior college, technical or trade school in any field of education.
The first recipient for the 2026-27 school year is Peyton Graber, a senior at Northridge High School. Graber will be attending Indiana Wesleyan University in the fall, working toward a degree in civil engineering.
The second recipient is Yulia Diachenko, a senior at Jimtown High School. Diachenko has
been accepted at Purdue University, Indiana University of South Bend, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and is looking forward to pursuing a degree in one of the sciences.
The third recipient is Sam Kitkowski, who will be attending Bethel University in the fall, pursuing a major in music composition. Kitkowski was homeschooled.
The final recipient of the scholarship is Colin Goss, a senior at NorthWood High School. Goss has been accepted at Grace College, Purdue University and Trine University and will pursue a teaching degree in social studies education and history. n
—— EASY EATS
‘The Works’ Tater Tot Breakfast Pizza
This tater tot breakfast pizza is loaded with “the works”—scrambled eggs, cheese, vegetables, sausage, bacon and ham on a crispy tater tot crust. Hearty and customizable, it’s the perfect dish for feeding the whole family.
INGREDIENTS:
q cooking spray
q 30 oz. pkg. tater tots
q 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
q 1 c. diced bell pepper, any color
q 1/2 c. diced onion
q 2/3 c. diced mushrooms
q 1 c. fresh spinach, roughly chopped
q 8 lg. eggs, beaten
q 2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
q 1/2 c. crumbled, cooked breakfast sausage
q 1/2 c. diced ham
q 4 strips crumbled, cooked bacon
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Spray a 12-inch oven-safe skillet with cooking spray, and add tater tot rounds, making sure to cover the bottom and come up the sides. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat half the butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. When the butter is sizzling, add bell pepper, onions, and mushrooms. Cook and stir frequently, until onions just begin to turn translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Add spinach and cook until just wilted, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove vegetables from the pan.
Add remaining butter to the same skillet over medium heat. When butter sizzles, add beaten eggs and cook until just set. They will cook more in the oven.
Remove tater tots from the oven. Use a spatula or smaller pan to press down on tater tots to form an even layer, and to smash the tots together. Sprinkle 1 cup Cheddar cheese over tots, then layer in eggs; spread them evenly to edges of the skillet. Sprinkle with cooked vegetables, then add sausage. Sprinkle with ham, remaining 1 cup cheese, and finally add bacon.
Return to the oven and bake until cheese is melted and pizza is heated through, about 10 minutes more. n
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
DIRECTIONS:
Start rice by following package instructions. Warm avocado oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. When oil is hot, add chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir spices in heated oil until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add chicken and toss gently to coat in oil and spice mix. Cook, stirring, until chicken is warmed through, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle lime juice over chicken, remove to a plate, and keep warm.
For street corn, add corn kernels to the same skillet, and increase heat to medium-high. Cook until corn starts to pop and picks up a little color, 3 to 5 minutes.
Place skillet-roasted corn in a bowl, and add red onion, 1/2 cup sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, to taste.
To assemble the bowls, spread each bowl with a bed of shredded lettuce. Add seasoned chicken, a serving of Mexican rice, and a serving of the street corn.
Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and pico de gallo.
Place a dollop of sour cream in the center of each bowl, sprinkle with some additional cotija cheese, and serve. n
This Mexican street corn chicken rice bowl is a flavorful way to turn leftover chicken into an easy one-bowl meal. Spiced chicken and street corn are served over rice and topped with lime, cilantro, and pico de gallo for a fresh finish. Serve with warmed tortillas or crunchy chips on the top.
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE CHICKEN
q 2 Tbsp. avocado oil
q 1 tsp. chili powder
q 1 tsp. ground cumin
q 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
q 1/2 tsp. salt, or to taste
q 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, or to taste
q 2 c. cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
q 2 tsp. fresh lime juice
FOR THE RICE, STREET CORN AND TOPPINGS
q 2 c. thawed sweet corn kernels
q 1/4 c. thinly sliced red onion
q 1 c. sour cream, divided
q 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
q 1/2 c. Cotija cheese, crumbled, plus more for garnish
q 1 tsp. chili powder
q salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
q 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
q 4 c. shredded lettuce
q 3 c. Mexican rice or any rice
q 1 lime, cut into wedges
q fresh cilantro for garnish
q 1/4 c. pico de gallo
allrecipes.com
allrecipes.com
JULY Did You Know?
What comes instantly to mind?
I can’t help but remember the Bicentennial Year, and all that led up to that Fourth of July. My friends who graduated that year had a choice of red, white or blue gowns. It’s always amazing when the history books don’t seem so dusty anymore, and become relevant in a way they hadn’t seemed before.
And now here we are preparing for our Semiquincenntenial. Is that a word you’d ever heard before? I hadn’t, so I looked it up; of course it means a 250th anniversary and the term is derived from Latin – semi for half, quin for five, and centennial for half of 500 years.
BUT DID YOU KNOW?
Aug. 2, 1776 is when most of the signers formally signed the Declaration of Independence. And July 4 was not declared a federal holiday until 1938!
What other occasions and moments do we celebrate this month? Lots, as it turns out.
By Bethanne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
The Eiffel Tower grows six inches every summer, due to thermal expansion. And some animals hibernate in the hot months, which is called aestivation.
First published July 5, 1687, Sir Isaac Newton published “Principia,” widely considered one of the most influential science books ever released, and containing his laws of motion and the law of universal gravity, as well as much more.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD?
July 1, 1862: President Abraham Lincoln signed the first income tax bill
July 2: World UFO Day
Also on July 2: LBJ signed the Civil Rights Act
July 4, 1872: the only President ever born on this day – Calvin Coolidge
July 6, 1885: the first time a rabies vaccine was successfully administered
If you’re interested in all forms of communication: July 1, 1908: the use of SOS as the first universal distress signal was adopted. Do you know how to signal it? Dot dot dot dash dash dash dot dot dot. Also this month, in 1963 zip codes were established for the US mail.
Sports? July 1, 1903: the first Tour de France And students playing with empty pie tins led to the creation of the Frisbee.
Temperature? The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 131.4 F and yes, it’s possible to fry eggs on the sidewalk.
There’s more to July fare than hot dogs and watermelon. The most popular popsicle flavor is cherry. Whatever was the greatest thing before sliced bread is unknown, but sliced bread was introduced in 1928. July encompasses National Hot Dog Month (no surprise) and National Ice Cream Month, and yes, National Watermelon Month. But there’s more!
July 6: National Fried Chicken Day
July 7: National Chocolate Day, as well as National Strawberry Sundae Day
July 9: National Sugar Cookie Day
July 11: Make Your Own Sundae Day and National Blueberry Muffin Day
July 15: Pecan Pie Day and Tapioca Pudding Day
July 17: Peach Ice Cream Day
July 19: Raspberry Cake Day
July 20 is Ugly Truck Day. It’s a guy thing.
And have you heard of The Stone of Destiny? This is not an American story but it sure is interesting. England took it from Scotland, which was an oblong block of red sandstone, in 1296. It was not returned until July 3, 1996! During all that time, British kings and queens used it in crowns. (How rude!)
So it looks as if you should eat lots of hot dogs, watermelon and ice cream this month. Stay as cool as you can, keep the eggs off the sidewalk (it’s one of those ‘just because you can, doesn’t mean you should’ sort of things) and when you set off fireworks and light sparklers on the Fourth of July, be sure to sing “Happy Birthday” in honor of President Coolidge! n
... and now you know!
The Book Nook
Want to suggest a book for Book Nook? Send the title, author, a brief synopsis of the book and why you liked it to lzeugner@the-papers.com.
Check out these selections from Cheryl Ashe and NPR’s book reviewers. Summer is a great time to crack open a new book. Happy page turning! —Lauren
BETTER
HOMES OF SOUTH BEND: AN AMERICAN STORY OF COURAGE by
Gabrielle Robinson
In 1950, a group of African American workers at the Studebaker factory in South Bend met in secret. Their mission was to build homes away from the factories and slums where they were forced to live. They came from the South to make a better life for themselves and their children, but they found Jim Crow in the North as well. The meeting gave birth to Better Homes of South Bend and the triumph against the entrenched racism of the times took all their courage, intelligence and perseverance. Ashe said she liked the book because it showed how ordinary people can improve their lives by working together. In this day and age, when people want better neighborhoods and have their children attend better schools, it shows what people can accomplish when they work together. Recommended by Cheryl Ashe.
VILLA COCO
by Andrew Sean Greer
The Baronessa is a 90-something proprietress of a Tuscan home who employs the rudderless narrator, whom she imported from the US shortly after his collage graduation. This is a smart, sweet wistful comedy.
THE BOOK OF BIRDS: A FIELD GUIDE TO WONDER AND LOSS by
Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris
This book celebrates the lives of declining or endangered birds, mainly British species. The joys of bird watching spans the globe and this book is Macfarlane and Morris’s invitation to protect the multispecies world of which we are just one part.
CHILDREN OF THE WILD by
Kevin Powers
World War I ruptures the lives of three principal characters, whose idyll on the cusp of adulthood in rural Virginia, is shattered by a conflict an ocean away. Wrote by a combat veteran.
THE GREAT WHEREVER by
Shannon Sanders
This is a playful intergenerational saga about a haunted farm in which ancestors watch over and critique the living for posterity and entertainment. The story tells of the legacy of the Sanders’ ancestors while creating something inventive and new. n
