LAKElife Magazine - April 2023

Welcome Home!

Dearest clients, family and friends, we made it! The RGroup Real Estate has been named as the Best Lake Real Estate Company of the Fort Wayne Newspapers Reader’s Choice Contest! We are humbled, honored and grateful for everyone who supported us and voted for us daily. As your #1 luxury lake real estate partner, you can be assured of the highest level of service from us every single time.

MLS # 202305630 5976 E George St, Syracuse IN, Lake Wawasee

This Easter egg hunt is not for the faint of heart. It’s serious bunny bidnizz at la casa de Sue. We humbly praise the Christian holiday. Then, my adult children switch gears. And it’s. Game. On.

Running shoelaces are double-knotted. Bunny ears are snug atop their heads. My holiday warriors walk to the starting lineup, then step into their bunny bags, one leg at a time. At last, they’re ready for the Annual Egg Hunt Battle.

Hubbs directs with the ever-creative: ‘ready, set, go’ … then off said warriors leap within constraints of bunny sacks, hopping, falling, flailing, laughing and tripping to the finish line where they ditch the bags, and run. My army of adultsized bunnies race, dart, dive, leap, flip, zigzag, and shove all over the yard—on a quest to collect more eggs than the next somebunny.

Yes, I watch my business owner, school teacher, legal professional, and budding entrepreneur transform into a band of wild, unabashed children, giggling with joy, laughing, racing, and competing.

It is total, wild, complete, beautiful chaos.

Easter mimosa in-hand, I watch and laugh ‘til my eyes and heart overflow.

Once eggs are gathered (except the one I find in June), my bunnies crack ‘em open to find monies and coupons to redeem at Mom’s prize bar—loaded with miniwines, gift cards + an array of their favorite goodies. It’s a joy to witness. And the tradition serves as a reminder of not-so-subtle life lessons: Let’s not take ourselves too seriously. Embrace life’s simplicities. Let’s not inhibit our actions in fear of what others may think—instead, spring into energy with carefree adventure + exploration. Remember to laugh—to really laugh. And stay surrounded by those we love, who genuinely love us back. It’s the good stuff in life.

AmmmI right?

So in April, let’s see one another for who we are. Let’s remember we all have triumphs and challenges. We are imperfect. We do our best. On good and difficult days, seek humor. Explore. Live in the moment, as they say.

Yes, in April we seek and we explore. We intentionally look for signs of lake life warming to brilliance. Hues of green spread, complemented by dotted brilliance of bulbs in bloom. Scents of neighborly cookouts frequent the evening air. Patio furniture is refreshed + readied for a season ahead. And each sunrise continues to prove promise for a new day. Let’s intentionally see their glory.

As we commence our fourth season of publishing LAKElife, please notice some new additions to the issue. To help us focus on humor this season, don’t miss the single-panel cartoon from acclaimed cartoonist Jonny Hawkins; we’re honored to have him within our pages. Look for our new ‘Making Scents’ column, and to keep the feel-goods vibing, flip to our new ‘Lake Jams’ on page 46.

And keep connected with us, won’t you? I read and appreciate every email, text, and social media comment; you are tremendously valued. And one more surprise: Instead of closing our publishing season in August, this season we’re extending the fun through September.

Thank you for joining us for another season. We exist because of—and for wonderful you, just as you are. Bunny ears, optional.

Warmly, Sue Executive-Editor-And-CommanderOf-Bunny-Hopping-Chaos

Watch for Jonny’s single-panel funnies in each issue of the 2023 lake season… and share a lighthearted laugh, courtesy of Jonny.

About Jonny Hawkins

Jonny Hawkins is a full-time cartoonist whose work has appeared in over 900 publications since 1986. Places like Reader’s Digest, Parade Magazine, Guideposts, Medical Economics, Air and Space, American Heart Association, Medical Post, and 76 Chicken Soup for the Soul books publications have featured his work.

He has drawn over 50,000 cartoons and has had 20 books published—and has created 81 page-a-day cartoon calendars (over a million sold), most of them for the world’s leading calendar publisher, Andrews McMeel. One of those is Medical Cartoon a Day calendar, now in its 19th year. His latest book is Mirth in the Morning (Schiffer Publishing), a coffee table book collection of 1,001 of some of his best cartoons. His newest book, Laughter Therapy, was released in 2021 (Harvest House).

His comic panel, Country Chuckles, is barnstorming the country, appearing in 40 publications and online—drawn from his experiences growing up on a hobby farm and raised with laughingstock.

He works from his home in the country in Sherwood, Michigan with his wife, Carissa, and their three children – Nate, Zach, and Kara - an Aussiedoodle, Blue, and six cats.

We are THRILLED to welcome Jonny (and his unique talent!) to our LAKElife family, and we look forward to his toon-up within our publication.

Enjoy the works of this issue’s spotlighted contributor, cartoonist Jonny Hawkins. We can all use a little more humor these days, don’t you agree?

SHOWERS • TILE • CARPET • HARDWOOD • LVP & MORE!

lifemagazine

Volume 4 Issue 1 | April 2023

Ron Baumgartner PUBLISHER

rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Sue Rawlinson-Pais EXECUTIVE EDITOR sue@lakelifemagazine.com

Deb Patterson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF dpatterson@the-papers.com

Steve Meadows DIRECTOR OF MARKETING smeadows@the-papers.com

SALES EXECUTIVES

Susan.Stump@lakelifemagazine.com

Carl.Lauster@lakelifemagazine.com

Karen.Johnson@lakelifemagazine.com

Rebecca.Boone@lakelifemagazine.com

Melinda.Musselman@lakelifemagazine.com

Lynn.Blanchard@lakelifemagazine.com

Cathy.Wilson@lakelifemagazine.com

Greetings, and happy spring sunshiny feel-goods to our secret masthead members club. I’ve missed you so mucho and am excited to begin a FOURTH SEASON with you special, amazing peeps.

(Speaking of peeps, m’toothbrush is at-the-ready, so bring on Easter and its marshmallowy Peeps® candies! AmmI right??)

Yes, welcome to the very first numero uno issue and masthead of our fourth season of refreshing, fun existence. And guess what? Since you’re wise enough to pause at the small print—unlike other readers who blast right past this juicy goodness!—here’s exciting news: In 2023, LAKElife Magazine has increased its season to SIX (instead of five) beautimous, lakeloving-all-about-you issues—publishing from April through September! Woo-hoo!

So here we are in the wee days of spring, welcoming April showers, greening grass, birds singing, and worms worming on the sidewalk.

Yes, in April waters are still fuh-reezing, but the earth is warming and our spirits are soaring with each ray of buttery sunshine. Our souls are ignited with promise, hope, anticipation, and all the exciting feel-goods of knowing lake life is emerging! We invite everyone in Kosciusko County, and beyond, to join us this season for SO. MUCH. FUN. We invite you, implore you, and like The Temptations, We Ain’t Too Proud To Beg you to join us.

In April we’re embracing energy, zest for life, all the while inhaling all the fresh goodness spring air delivers. And while we celebrate the most energetic + amazing readership all season long, in April we’re kicking off a season loaded to our bunny ears with ways to be involved. This is your magazine. I’m just the busy spring bee helping making things happen.

Speaking of bees, just wait ‘til Ron and I

Annette Weaver BUSINESS MANAGER aweaver@the-papers.com

Jerry Long DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION jlong @the-papers.com

Maymie Ankrom GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Shelly Davis WEBMASTER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Ray Balogh, Mary Jane Bogle, Shelley Galbreath, Jonny Hawkins, Jason Kissel, Jerry Parsons, Mike Petrucelli, Courtney Hladish, Loren Shaum, Pam Schumm, Christy Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Danielle Anderson, Arielle Elise Photography, Mike Deak, Autumn Gregory, Sue Pais, Loren Shaum, Christy Smith, The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, WACF

P.O. Box 188; 206 South Main St. Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796 www.lakelifemagazine.com

commence this season of competitions! Spring is when buzzing bees swarm and travel, and since Ron and I both are runners, I had a great idea (guess what it was!). Ron, however, responded with “no bees.” Rejection stings.

So instead of bee-running, just wait ‘til our blindfolded bunny-sack hopping race, held the second Tuesday of the second week! Who knows who will win that one… (we won’t).

Speaking of Ron… he’s the region’s true publisher extraordinaire, our leader, the man behind the scenes, with a blindfolded bunny-hopping enthusiasm that’d make the real Easter bunny scratch both ears. It’s thanks to Ron that LAKElife Magazine is published for you. Yes, by The Papers Inc.—the same publishing house that’s been serving communities for 84 years, located at 206 S. Main Street, Milford, Indiana, 46542. Talk about longevity of service, eh?

But we sure love the service of publishing. Yes, we’re grateful for what we do, and we’re eager for another fabulous season ahead of good times, chillout moments, appreciation, nature exploring, bird watching, splishy-splashing in the water, popsicle drips on the dock, the screen door left open, impromptu cookouts, and good times with family + friends. It’s what it’s all about.

Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for the second Thursday of each week when I totally blow off work to throw back a few. Don’t tell Ron.

Before I forget, here’s the only required paragraph of the masthead: ‘It shall be known that all rights whatsoever are reserved and nothing may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher, who also assumes no responsibility as a result of any information or items advertised herein.’

And, those interested in contacting us may do so by calling 574.658.4111 or toll-free at 1.800.733.4111.

Check

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

At four years in, if you’re not already advertising with us, I must twitch my nose whilst bunny-hopping straight at you, asking repeatedly “why not? why not? why not?” And buh-lieve me, that would be annoying. So, to learn how to advertise in the fastest growing, most fun + made-for-you magazine, please contact Steve Meadows, director of marketing, at 574.658.4111 or toll-free at 1.800.733.4111. Or, email him at smeadows@the-papers.com. He’s nice (even though he also said, ‘no bees’) and I’ve yet to see him twitch his nose, or hop anywhere.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS

Editorial suggestions and letters to the editor (that’s me… hi, I’m Sue) are welcomed! Please contact me at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

LAKElife Magazine contracts with freelance writers, photographers, and artists. If you’re somebunny who's interested in joining our creative fun-fest, just reach out. In fact, when in doubt about anything regarding this family-fun lake publication, I’m yer’ happy, hopping magazine gurl.

Therein concludes our first secret, super-but-notreally-informative masthead of the season. Please enjoy this April issue. It was made for you.

A sincere thanks to all our amazing friends and LAKElife family for making this publication a fabulous possibility. Sending love + blessings to all. And to our special masthead club, thank you extra for reading each word. Even within the small print.

Hi Sue, I love the magazine and I love reading the masthead!! I've attached two dog pictures and a fish picture. The picture with the fish is my husband Dave Miller. The dog picture is my niece Caroline with her dog, and the group picture (at left) is my daughter and nieces (Melissa, Julie, Haylie, Caroline) with their dogs. Thanks!

–Linda Miller, Lake Tippecanoe

Hooray! Happy to hear you’ve joined our super-secret masthead readers club. We have such fun, don’t we? Thank you for the pics; they’ll all print this season!

Letters to the Editor

Sue,

You deserve a lot of credit for your lovely LAKElife Magazine. We have some professional wakeboarders on Winona Lake that are the top wakeboarders in the country. They are Noah and Beau. They provide us all with countless hours of entertainment. You’d have some great pictures (from them); they are a wonderful family. Thank you,

Carlye Baenen, Winona Lake

Thank you for the kind words + for the tip, Carlye. Readers like you help us create the best content! It’s very much appreciated.

Good morning Sue, I would like to submit a few photos of our son, Leo. My grandparents have a house on Big Chapman Lake (Osborne Landing) and we love visiting. We welcomed a baby boy in April and here are a few pictures of him this summer, including his first boat ride! (The picture in the car seat.) Hopefully we will see one of them in the new issue of LAKElife. Have a great day!!

–Melissa Montemayor

Ask and ye’ shall receive, Mommy Melissa. Congratulations on your precious new boating bundle. Thank you for sharing his first boat ride with us! And… happy first birthday to Leo! Cheers to you + yours this ’23 season.

Hi Sue,

We just moved to the lake and recently bought our boat. This picture was taken of us recently and I thought I would share. This little guy is Scooter and he LOVES his boat rides; it’s almost expected he is going every time!

–Stacy Stanley

Scooter DOES look content. Thank you for sharing, and welcome to the lakes!

When we said we loved your letters, we meant it! Simply email us at sue@lakelifemagazine.com. Yes, it’s that easy.

Our family never gets tired of watching a sunset every day at Kuhn Lake. We’d love to share this picture with your magazine.

–The Burnstrum Family, Brad, Chona, and Skyler, Kuhn Lake

Sunsets just make it easier to breathe, don’t they? Thanks for sharing, Burnstrum family.

Hi Sue,

Love your magazine! Two super amazing humans are North Webster residents and business owners, Ann & Wes Bell. These two are awesome people but it would take a full week to list the reasons so I will leave it at that. Thank you! Keep up the great work!

–Beverly Keane

Thanks for submitting their names, Beverly. Check ‘em out in the Gratitude List on pg. 77.

Hi Sue!

We so enjoy your beautiful magazine! This pic is of my grandchildren: Graham, twins Brooklyn & Hayden, and our youngest, Maddie—all enjoying an evening at Poppy and Gigi’s house on Tippy Lake. I thought I finally had one deserving of your wonderful mag!

Thanks!

–Deb Nicol

What a wonderful pic… and precious moment captured. Thanks for your kind words!

Sue,

What an incredible job you do with every issue! The spirit of ‘lake life’ is indeed reflected on every page and article...so inviting. I also find LAKElife to be a practical resource of useful information for everything a lake resident might be thinking about: decorating, landscaping, eating, entertaining, boating, cooking...all in the context of family and fun. The participation of readers who provide photos, mom-tributes and voting is smart and unique for an ‘offline publication.’ ChautauquaWawasee (took) your photo concept one step further with our annual phone video Film Festival… Engagement is easier online than with a monthly print publication...but we love your approach. WELL DONE! I'm sending my subscription form in today!

–Mark Knecht, president, Chautauqua-Wawasee

Mark: your words are SO appreciated + we are proud to partner with you. Thanks for all YOU do for our lake community.

Enjoying a lovely evening on the deck. Back on the water with our dogs. Bert really enjoys the ride. And our new rescue, Jack, the Pomeranian, decided he likes Chapman as well. Thanks for making LAKElife such a readable magazine!

–Carol Rudin, Chapman Lake

Move over, Johnny Depp. Meet the NEW Captain Jack.

Birdwatching

For mental health + melodic serenades

by Ray Balogh

It’s

And here in Lake Land, from early spring until the autumn frosts, we are blessed with the symphony of innumerable serenades from our ubiquitous feathered friends.

Added to the melody are the bright and entertaining splashes of color they provide while unpredictably flitting about, gracing us with their cheerful and inspiring co-existence during lake season.

| photo above by Autumn Gregory

hard to imagine a more felicitous and uplifting early morning alarm tone than the carefree trill of a songbird.

photos: shutterstock.com

photo: shutterstock.com

Birdwatching yields significant mental health benefits, as proven by many psychological studies.

The phenomenon even has a name: ornitherapy.

One study published in Scientific Reports concluded that seeing and hearing birds improved one’s mental wellbeing for up to eight hours. Birding reduces stress, blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones, and provides periodic epiphanies of awe, along with emotions like joy, serenity, inspiration, and gratitude.

So, birdwatching is good, right?

Thankfully, birdwatching — and encouraging the little critters to linger with an appropriately stocked backyard avian smorgasbord — are neither arduous nor expensive endeavors. The key is to identify the species, learn when and where they ply their presence, and offer the right accommodations and menu items to keep them coming back for more.

Tony Carroll, Private Lands Wildlife biologist for the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife, has acquired an encyclopedic wealth of knowledge during his 29 years with the department.

For his first 23 years with the DNR, he worked at the Tri-County and Winamac Fish & Wildlife Areas, locations he recommends for the hobby of birding. “Fish & Wildlife Areas provide a great opportunity for bird watching,” he said. “Fish & Wildlife Area locations and contact information can be located at wildlife.in.gov. I advise that you contact the Fish & Wildlife Area prior to visiting to learn about the rules and regulations of the property.”

Carroll practices what he preaches. “As a hobby I enjoy managing my own property to benefit many wildlife species,” he said. He lists some of the most likely species sightings around the lakes area: cardinals, blue

Blue jay

Downy woodpecker

jays, mourning doves, house finches, goldfinches, white-breasted nuthatches, and downy woodpeckers.

Descriptions and birdwatching tips about each species can be found at allaboutbirds.org/guide. Click on the “All About Birds” logo in the upper left corner and type the species into the search box. The site, administrated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, will provide photos, audio recordings of the bird’s song, and “backyard tips” and “cool facts” about the species.

Carroll suggests the only equipment necessary to commence the rewarding hobby of birdwatching is a decent pair of binoculars, a field guide for reference, a notebook to record sightings, and perhaps an app that will identify species from real time photos and sound snippets from a cell phone.

He is not particularly an avid proponent of “artificial feeding” with backyard setups, recommending instead a more comprehensive and ecologically integrative approach to providing accommodations for our feathered friends. “Alternative ways to feeding for people to benefit and attract birds are to improve

Bird feeders are, of course, available at many area retail outlets, such as big box stores or garden centers, but even the least initiated do-it-yourselfer can set up a homemade backyard buffet with little effort and practically no expense.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel published five simple ideas for homemade bird feeders incorporating recyclable materials and other items found in most households:

1. Take an open Mason jar, other open-ended glass or plastic jar or tin can, and hang it horizontally on a tree branch or pole with a length of leather strap. Remember to extend a wooden dowel rod below the opening to act as a bird perch.

2. A used juice or milk carton can easily be converted into a birdhouse/feeder — and the children will love taking part in the project.

habitat by planting native species of grasses, wildflowers, trees, and shrubs,” he said. “Native plants will provide nesting habitat, food sources, and roosting sites for birds. Native plants will provide the most benefit to birds native in Indiana. Artificial nest boxes can be installed to attract cavity nesting birds such as wood ducks, bluebirds, tree swallows, and purple martins.”

For those who would like to host backyard avian gatherings by offering sustenance, Carroll said a primary staple is black oil sunflower seeds, which can be purchased in up to 40-pound bags at local garden centers, big box outlets, and hardware stores. He noted doves are ground feeders, so feel free to strew some seeds in the lawn while filling the bird feeders. And hummingbirds subsist on sugar water through specially designed feeders found at retail outlets.

Expert help is abundantly available for both the novice and experienced birdwatcher. Carroll suggests visiting wildlife.in.gov “to learn more about birds in Indiana and to locate your regional DNR Private Lands Wildlife Biologist.” For more information, call Carroll at 574.896.3522, ext. 222.

photos: shutterstock.com

3. Cut a couple circles through a 2-liter soda bottle and insert wooden spoons through the openings. Then fill the bottle with birdseed, allowing the seed to spill onto the business end of the spoons, providing a refillable supply as the birds peck away at the seed.

4. Mix up a batch of seeds, unflavored dissolved gelatin, flour and light corn syrup. In a bundt pan, set down a layer of dried cherries or cranberries and firmly press the mixture into the pan. Let dry for 24 hours, remove the “wreath” and hang it on a tree branch.

5. For the more imaginative and craft-oriented, make a bird feeder out of LEGOs. Caution: clean the feeder regularly, as the LEGO tiles can provide some hard-to-reach cubbyholes where seeds can lodge and turn moldy.

Goldfinch

House finch White-breasted nuthatch

Collier’s and Lennox - The Perfect Pair

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PhotoFun

Want YOUR photos printed in a future issue of LAKElife?

Lake Tippecanoe’s lake enthusiast winks to welcome the ‘23 season.

Submitted by Suzanne Todd

Focus. And pink cuteness. Dewart Lake’s Mackenzie focuses on fishing.

Submitted by Tami Overman

Dogs are lake lovers’ best pals… and when pups cross the rainbow bridge, we keep on lovin’ them through memories. Here’s Dixie + Bennett—loving boat rides + swims.

Submitted by Lisa Bennett

Some see Adirondack chairs + a willow. We see lake life.

Submitted by Carl Lauster

Because snacks taste better with cool hats. Meet the Berg boys from Lake Wawasee.

Submitted by Abby Herberg

Which dog’s nose matches her life jacket? This dog!

Submitted by doggie momma’

Lake Baby, a.k.a. Cooper, tips a hat to say a gentlemanly hello. Cuteness. Overload.

Submitted by Tami Overman

Sometimes we feel the same way, pup. Too tired + comfy to jump in the lake.

Submitted by Ben Wilkinson

Well, at these young ladies! This quartet of gals at the Spink Condominiums love their lake days.

by Brad Cox

It’s Baby Jane’s first dip in Chapman Lake… she’s the 6th generation of the Todd Thalls family on Chapman.

Submitted

Amy Isenberg

PhotoFun

“Hey, Dad! Let’s go! I’m ready to ski!” said Lake Webster’s little Jayce.

Lake Life = This Pic. Meet the Herberg family at Lake Wawasee.

Submitted by Abby

Noodles and Lake Webster waters go together like besties Kennedy and Aiyanna at the swimming hole.

Submitted by Amy Tipple

‘Nuff said.

Submitted by Wes Armstrong

Submitted by Jessie

Popsicles + plentiful personality all-aboard! The Wallace grandchildren enjoy a fun lake day.

Submitted by Therese Wallace

All smiles from this duo at Dewart Lake!

Birds, Turtles + Goodness

by Sue Pais | photos by Arielle Elise Photography

Excitement, anticipation, energy, and peace collectively activate in early spring, don’t they?

Nature slowly emerges into action—from singing birds at play to baby turtles making an appearance—all evoke a sense of excitement that seasonal change is, indeed, in-action. We trust colors will grow more vibrant as weeks pass, and we know waters will warm. And then, it’s time for water fun and sprinklers a’blast around our county.

Sunrise welcomes each day in the early hours, and we soak in each brilliant, welcoming ray with as much frequency as our sleep cycles allow.

We seek laughter, moments with friends and family, and our spirits are energized.

Perhaps in spring more than any other season, a balance of peace and energy naturally exist; an inner harmony.

We appreciate small details of bulbs emerging from the earth, and of the promise in planting saplings and seedlings.

Spring at the lake is when we breathe more deeply. Appreciate more freely. Anticipate with more intention. And we clean, plan, and improve small details in life perhaps more fully.

So let’s be intentional with our April days. Let’s count our blessings, and see them with clarity.

Let’s remain focused on peace. On promise. On kindness, love, family, and friendship. And, yes, on goodness.

Let’s embrace each moment of spring. Of the lakes. And indeed, let’s know how blessed we are to be living The Good Life.

Kosciusko County

Lake life is a peaceful, beautiful sunset over Pike Lake, as captured by reader Ammie Devenney.

Lake life means precious moments. Soothing sunshine. Calming sunsets. Family. Friends. And our furbabes being as doggone happy as the rest of the fam’.

What does “lake life”mean to you?

Let us know. We promise we’ll listen—and we’ll celebrate right along with you.

It’s what lake life is all about. And it takes place right here, within Kosciusko County.

Email your pic to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

COUNTY SEAT

Warsaw TOWNS

Burket, Claypool, Etna Green, Leesburg, Mentone, Milford, North Webster, Pierceton, Sidney, Silver Lake, Syracuse, Warsaw, Winona Lake

LAKES

With more than 100 lakes, Kosciusko County is rich with beautiful lake venues. Among the many lakes are:

Barbee Lakes, Beaver Dam Lake, Boner Lake, Carr Lake, Center Lake, Chapman Lakes, Dewart Lake, Diamond Lake, Hoffman Lake, Irish Lake, James Lake, Kuhn Lake, Lake Tippecanoe, Lake Wawasee, Oswego Lake, Palestine Lake, Papakeechie Lake, Pike Lakes, Ridinger Lake, Sechrist Lake, Shock Lake, Stanton Lake, Syracuse Lake, Waubee Lake, Webster Lake, Winona Lake, Wyland Lake, Yellow Creek Lake

Trails

Kosciusko County Trails

Leash-up Fido, lace your sneakers, and enjoy the outdoors. Breathe. Laugh. Exercise. Enjoy Kosciusko County’s trail systems created for you to enjoy.

Beyer-Farm Boardwalk Trail, Warsaw 1013 E. Arthur St. Warsaw.in.gov

Heritage Trail-Winona Lake Trail System, Winona Lake 1001 E. Canal St. winonalaketrails.com

Old Chinworth Bridge Trail, Warsaw 3495 W. Old Rd. 30 574.269.1078

Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, Syracuse 1013 N. Long Dr. syracusewawaseetrails.com

PublicBeaches

Milford

Waubee Park, Camp Mack Rd.

North Webster

Lake Webster Park, Dixie Dr.

Syracuse

Hoys Landing, Henry St. Lakeside Park, Long Dr.

Warsaw

Center St. Park, Canal St.

Pike Lake Park, Arthur St.

Winona Lake

Winona Lake Park, Park Ave.

Lake life is water-ready grandchildren gathered on the dock at Lake Wawasee, per reader

Therese Wallace

shutterstock.com

PublicAccessSites

Have a boat, but don’t live on a lake? Public access sites are as follows:

Upper Barbee Lakes/Kuhn Lake

EMS B6A Lane

Lower Barbee Lakes

Grassy Creek Public Access

East 500 North

Beaver Dam Lake

CR 750 West

Center Lake

Buffalo Street

Chapman Lake

Chapman Lake Drive + EMS C14

Dewart Lake

CR 300 East + EMS D24

Lake Wawasee

9822 North Turkey Creek Road

Palestine Lake

SR 25 to 1st Street

Pike, Little Pike Lakes

Arthur Street to Pike Lake Park

Shock Lake

North of Syracuse-Webster Road

SR 13 to CR 850N

Syracuse Lake

Medusa Street +

North Front Street

Tippecanoe, James & Oswego Lakes

Grassy Creek Public Access, East

500 North

Waubee Lake

Camp Mack Road at Waubee Park

Webster Lake

Backwater Road + EMS W22

Winona Lake

East Smith Street to Hillside Drive

Wyland Lake

CR 875 East

Lake life is Carly Scott’s pups, Pebbles + Cuddles, pawfectly chillin’ on Lake Wawasee.

EASTERN COTTONTAIL

Rabbit

by Jason Kissel, executive director, ACRES Land Trust

The features that make them cute to us are survival adaptations for the rabbits.

• Their large eyes are well suited for seeing at night when they are most active.

• Their big ears help them hear predators approaching from the ground or air.

• Their ability to hop quickly and in any direction helps them escape when necessary.

But what about that white tail that sticks out like a beacon against an otherwise camouflaged brown and gray body? Wouldn’t that fluffy, cotton ball looking tail give predators a target to chase and make capture easier? Researchers have found that predators fixate on their white tail—but when the rabbit suddenly darts sideways, the white tail disappears from the predator’s view, making them pause slightly, giving the rabbit a better chance to escape. If rabbits ran straight, their white tail would work against them, but since they dart in all directions, their white tail is an asset.

Rabbits earn their reputation as prolific breeders through two key features: (1) their pregnancies last only one month, and (2) rabbits begin mating when they are 3 months old. The average female rabbit will produce 3 to 4 litters per year with 4 or 5 babies (called kits) each time. So, one rabbit makes 20 more rabbits each year! And those 20 rabbits all begin having rabbits in just three months. Rabbit populations are kept in check primarily by predation, hunting, and lack of habitat.

Rabbits prefer to live alone on the edges of forests and fields, eating grass and other plants in the summer and surviving on bark, buds, and small twigs during the winter.

Rabbits:

• Run up to 18 miles per hour

• Jump as far as 15 horizontal feet

• Live about 3 years

• Can be very loud! They cry, grunt, and squeal.

ACRES Land Trust is a member-supported nonprofit organization that protects over 7,500 acres of natural and working land in northeast Indiana, northwest Ohio and southern Michigan. More than 2,000 ACRES members make it possible to keep these places protected forever and offer trails for free public use. Learn more at acreslandtrust.org.

Cottontail rabbits’ large eyes, big ears, fluffy white tails, and hoppy, cute behavior make them one of the area’s most loved animals. Yet their appetite for garden veggies, flowers, and landscaping can quickly turn them into your enemy, no matter how cute they might be!

WACF

Where You’re Welcome

wildlife, the continental divide, and learn about water quality in these upper lakes of our watershed. Pre-registration is a must. Contact aldotcam@gmail.com.

June 3 is a discussion about the importance of planting native, and we will have plants available for purchase.

Play Day at WACF will be June 6 (9 a.m.) as part of the Indiana Children’s and Nature Network. Bring the family out and enjoy the outdoors! Activities will be available, including a scavenger hunt on the trails.

New this year is a TRIVIA night June 22 at Ruddell Pavilion. Watch our Facebook and website pages for more information about registering!

July 1 is the ever-popular Bug Catch

An all-time favorite for kids of all ages. Participants learn about little water critters and their value to lake quality. Participants then get wet and catch ‘em! Nets are provided but feel free to bring your own.

We have programming for adults and children from April through July. Programs are open to the public, with no reservations required on most programs!

Our mission is to preserve and protect the Wawasee area watershed for generations to come. One of the ways to make sure this happens is through educational programs. Our programs apply to most lakes and streams, so what you learn about Wawasee can be applied to many other lakes in our area.

We invite LAKElife readers to join us on one or more of our educational activities. When the public flag is flying at the entrance, it means we have a free program you may attend. Look for a listing of our events in the calendar of this magazine each month, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, please visit us at wacf.com.

Here’s a sneak peek at the WACF season ahead:

May 6 – Earth Day Festival from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Enjoy more than 20 different activities designed to teach different aspects of nature. Most activities are interactive, not just demonstrations, so you can join in the fun. Some vendors will have unique items for sale but the rest is all FREE—including a hot dog, chips, and water.

Lake Talk and Eats Programs are the first Saturday of each month beginning at 9 a.m.

Canoe trips are every Friday morning June through August. Join us as we put in at the headwaters in Knapp Lake and paddle downstream to Indian Village. See

July is Wetland Adventure month! Every Wednesday beginning at 9 a.m. we will explore a topic about our watershed with demonstrations, stories, and crafts. Plus we always offer a canoe scavenger hunt so bring the PFDs for the kiddos. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Ag Tour – come ride with us through a working farm bordering our watershed to see how farming can be done with the ecology of the lake in mind. August 2 from 9:30 a.m. – noon, pre-registration is a must at pamschumm@gmail.com.

August 5 is a time to relax and enjoy a cruise on the S.S. Lillypad to learn how WACF is making strides in improving water quality. Bring your questions and we will answer them.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

by Pam Schumm, education officer, WACF | photos provided by WACF

Have you visited us yet? We are the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF), headquartered at 11586 N. SR 13 in Syracuse. We WANT to see YOU!

SIGN

UP FOR

Ingesting microcystin, a toxin produced by bluegreen algae, can cause health problems, especially for dogs.

Sign up here: lakes.grace.edu/microcystin

• Largest Selection of Frames in the Area • Full Service Lab on Site • ALL Contact Lenses • Safety Glasses • Prescription And Non-prescription Sunglasses Featuring: • Oakley • Maui Jim • Wiley X • Nike • Coach • Ray-Ban Our Family Serving Yours For Over 30 Years • Largest Selection of Frames in the Area • Full Service Lab on Site • ALL Contact Lenses • Safety Glasses • Prescription And Non-prescription Sunglasses Featuring: • Oakley • Maui Jim • Wiley X • Nike • Coach • Ray-Ban Our Family Serving Yours For Over 30 Years LAKElife Magazine April 2023 35

No problem. No Boat?

HITCH A RIDE ON THE WAVES HERE.

by Courtney Hladish

Don’t have your own boat? That’s okay! We can all still enjoy the LAKElife vibes and hitch a boat ride for fun in the sun.

Singing (praises for the) Dixie

If you have a passion for history or simply enjoy a relaxing ride on the water, then a tour on The Dixie should be on the bucket list this season! Built in 1929, The Dixie Sternwheeler Tour Boat cruises Webster Lake as Indiana’s oldest sternwheel paddle boat. Daily public tours on the Dixie start the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend at just $7 per ticket for a 75-minute tour. An experience on the Dixie is one you will not forget as you learn history about the boat itself and Webster Lake. Here are a few 2023 dates to keep in mind for the Dixie and its home in North Webster:

North Webster Mermaid Festival is Wednesday, June 21–Saturday, June 24. The Dixie fireworks cruise will be on Saturday, July 1 and tickets are $10 per person. And finally, The North Webster Dixie Day is Thursday, June 29 and there will be extra Dixie cruises at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Check out their website for more information: ridethedixie.com.

Lake season has finally arrived, and many (like me) are anxious to get out on the water and under the sun. However, some of us have one problem: we’re boat-less!

photo by Mike Deak

Last, but certainly not least, we dive into the 70-foot-long S.S. Lillypad II. This two-story houseboat is docked at The Frog tavern in Syracuse. This is the largest vessel on the lake with plenty of room for entertaining as it can comfortably cruise with 110 guests aboard, making it the perfect rental for events such as corporate functions, weddings, and other social gatherings.

Rentals

If you’re looking for a more active, yet secluded experience, the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department now offers kayak rentals kiosks at Center Lake and Pike Lake Beach. The kayaks are available 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset, with a cost at just $15 for one hour or $40 for four hours. For more information, visit: visitkosciuskocounty.org/ locations/warsaw-parks-department-kayak-rental.

Winona Lake has quite the variety of boating experiences for rent. One of those experiences could be with WakeSurf Winona. They offer luxury boat tours and private wake surfing charters. Simply go to wakesurfwinona.com to book your tour for the upcoming lake season.

The Lake House in Winona is another option to keep on your go-to list for rentals. Here, they offer a 21-foot pontoon rental, stand-up paddleboard rentals and kayak rentals. For rental pricing, call 574.265.6945 or visit their website: lakehousesurf.com/services.

Another must-try boating opportunity is the Oakwood Tour Boat. The Oakwood Tour Boat was built in 1986 for the U.S. Parks Department, and was used as canal tour boat on the east coast. Today, this boat is docked at the Oakwood Resort on Lake Wawasee and offers rides to guests at $10 per person for a 30- to 40-minute scenic boat cruise around the lake. Oakwood also offers a private boat rental at $300 per hour with the capacity at 44 people.

Of course, if you’re just looking for a boat cruise on the S.S. Lillypad II, there are public cruises available throughout the year. Check their website for more information on public cruises: sslillypad.com.

The options for spending time on the water in northeast Indiana are endless! And hey, send us a picture on one of your boating excursions to be featured in LAKELife Magazine. Hashtag us at #lakelifemag, or email images to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

Cheers to a splash-tastic, fun spring—full of making the best kind of waves!

Indiana’s four FREE FISHING DAYS are May 7, June 3-4 and September 23. On Free Fishing Days, Indiana residents don’t need a fishing license or a trout stamp to fish in public waters (17 and under are always free). Many properties host fishing derbies, training events and more to help give newbies a chance to fish. This year, take a friend or family member fishing. dnr.IN.gov/fishfree.

by Loren Shaum

Myth Buster #1

Solar-lunar tables lead to successful fishing

This myth suggests that the best fishing days are based on moon phases, weather reports, and almanacs. All are sources that fishing enthusiasts contemplate when choosing the right day to drop their lines. However, a study from Mississippi State University indicates that “there is no pattern,” after interviewing fishermen over several years. Conclusion: You should go fishing whenever you can!

Fishy Mythology

… AND MYTH BUSTERS

Myth Buster #2

All fish spawn at the same time

As spring emerges, fish spawn differently depending on water temperature and weather conditions. Experts claim that larger fish spawn first.

Several years ago, a warm front came through in early March, and the lakes thawed quickly. On St. Patrick’s Day, it was 75 degrees, and my grandson, Eli, caught a boat-load of crappie in a channel when they came in to spawn. A week later, the temperatures dropped, and they headed back to the lake. Depending on the species, conditions must be right for spawning!

Myth Buster #3

Never fish on rainy days

This is another age-old myth that relates to another myth: “When wind is from the west, the fish bite best; when wind is from the east, the fish bite least.” The only known fact is that wind comes from weather fronts. If a cold front comes through (usually from the west), rain is likely in warmer months. However, fish are opportunistic feeders, so it doesn’t matter if there is rain or not.

Lakes come alive as soon as the ice melts. Hungry fish await, and many anglers are guided by a litany of fables about the best times and places to fish. Most, however, are (perhaps well-intentioned but) misguided myths.

photos: shutterstock.com

Myth Buster #4

Early fishing and bait size result in more bass

During bass tournaments, fishermen roll-out at 8 a. m., but data shows that more bass are caught during mid-day when the sun is brightest. Reason: fish can sight a lure better. Nonetheless bass can be active anytime, and they aren’t interested in bait size.

This pike was caught in early evening.

Last April, Eli caught a monster bass around mid-morning using only a jig tipped with a minnow. This seems to nullify this notion of time and bait size.

between Syracuse and Wawasee lakes. The most recent account occurred in 1991, when a monster sturgeon was snagged. It took two to wrestle the 90-pound beast to the shore.

A Truism Another Truism

‘Water monsters’ exist

Native American lore indicates that water monsters have been seen by several tribes. Many recognized them as spirits. The Ojibwe Tribe associated fish with long life and wisdom. Locally, folklore suggests that monster fish exist, as first verified in 1855 when a sturgeon was speared in the channel

Fruity Bad Luck

Fisherman luck is due more to knowledge of fish activity and lake geography than by myths passed through generations— but myths and lore make a great hook for storytelling.

Spring is here, let’s go fishing!

Who knew fruit was bad luck? Once when halibut fishing in Alaska, the ‘old salt’ skipper asked all of us if we’d brought any bananas on board. If so, get rid of them, he said, because they are bad luck!

Apparently this myth derived when crews tried to troll off of banana boats—the boats were faster than conventional boats. The boats were so fast no one caught anything!

us help you with all your sewing projects

Partial list of covers provided:

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Some of the main fabrics available to build your projects:

• Sunbrella – 10 Year Warranty

• Harbor time – 5 Year Warranty

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• 18oz. Vinyl

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• Sunscreen & Regular Screen

Some of the main fabrics available to build your projects:

• Sunbrella – 10 Year Warranty

• Harbor time –

• Boats – Pontoons (travel covers)

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CUSTOM PROJECTS TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS

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Lake Jams

Nothing kicks-off lake season quite like a great lake jam. And we’re here to help.

Here’s how: Hover your cell phone camera over the QR code below, watch for a link to appear on your phone, click the link. Easy!

Then, grab a bev’ from your YETI®110 + enjoy this month’s happy vibin’ lake jam.

Sound Byte

"Buy me a boat" by Chris Jansen

Fashionable fisher gal Aiyanna caught this fish in Echo Bay. Submitted by Amy Tipple.

Troy caught this little guy from Lake Webster. Great job, Troy! Submitted by Anitra Murphy.

Bites

Big

The bluegill were biting at Dewart Lake on Ryker’s line! Submitted by Tami Overman.

Dave Miller ended his day with this fish from Lake Tippecanoe. Submitted by Linda Miller.

Audrey + Bobby caught these monsters from Lake Wawasee. Nice catches!

Kosciusko County CalendarofEvents

by Ray Balogh

Email event information to our pal Ray, at: rbalogh@the-papers.com. He’ll be happy to hear from you!

Note: Every effort is made to ensure accuracy to events listed. As schedules sometimes change, please confirm details prior to attending.

EASTER EGG HUNTS

We’ve hunted for all the Easter celebrations we could find, but as bunnies can do, the celebrations also continue to multiply... so…

For the most current, egg-stra accurate, up-to-date Easter egg hunt info for your little somebunnies, check out the Easter Egg Hunt list on inkfreenews.com, Kosciusko County’s only digital daily newspaper.

(Please call ahead to confirm in-person activities)

WARSAW COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

• Kids Yoga, 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, Meeting Room AB. For children pre-K and older.

• LEGO Club, 10 a.m.-noon. Saturday, April 1, Meeting Room C. For children and families, LEGOs supplied.

• Story Emporium Bookstore, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Stafford Book Sale Room. Open to all ages.

• Preschool Story Time, 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Monday, April 3, 10, 17, 24; Thursday, April 14, 21, 28, Meeting Room C.

• Preschool Activity Stations, 11 a.m.-noon. Monday, April 3, 10, 17, 24; Thursday, April 14, 21, 28, Meeting Room C.

• Toddler Story Time, 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, 12, 29, 26, Meeting Room C. For children newborn to 2 years old.

• Greyt Readers, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 15, children’s area. Children read to greyhounds.

• Origami for Animals, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 22, Meeting Room AB.

• Cosplay Event, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, Meeting Room C. Snacks provided.

For updates, call 574.267.6011 or visit warsawlibrary.org or facebook.com/warsawpubliclibrary

The library is located at 310 E. Main St., Warsaw.

WAWASEE AREA CONSERVANCY FOUNDATION

• Bird walk, 8 a.m., Saturday, April 29, WACF Levinson-LaBrosse Lakes and Wetlands Education Center, 11586 N. SR 13, Syracuse. Free admission, but registration requested.

Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, 11586 N. SR 13, Syracuse. 574.457.4549, wacf.com.

NORTH WEBSTER COMMUNITY CENTER

• Community indoor garage sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, April 22.

• Cardio drumming, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday; 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Saturday, Culver Family Wellness Center North Wing. $5/class or $40/punch card.

• Yoga for Everyone, 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Culver Family Wellness Center North Wing. $5/class (first class free).

• Pickleball, 9 a.m.-noon. Monday through Friday (competitive); 1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday (all play); 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday (all play); 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Friday (beginner), gymnasium. $3/individual.

For updates, call 574.834.1600 or visit nwcommunitycenter.org or facebook.com/nwcommunitycenter

The community center is located at 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

WAGON WHEEL CENTER FOR THE ARTS

• “The Phantom of the Wagon Wheel” audience participation murder mystery, 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, April 27-29; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 30. $17 general admission.

Wagon Wheel Community Theatre, 2515 E. Center St., Warsaw. 574.267.2618, wagonwheelcenter.org

LILLY CENTER FOR LAKES & STREAMS

• Tippecanoe River Heron Rookery Expedition, 1:30 p.m.-3:45 p.m., Thursday, April 13, Heron Rookery, 590 W. 300N, Warsaw.

• Behind the Scenes: KC Recycling Depot Tour, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 15, KC Recycling Depot, 220 S. Union St., Warsaw.

• Pisgah Nature Area Expedition, noon-3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, Pisgah Nature Area, 9939 E. 350N, North Webster.

Registration at lakes.grace.edu/get-involved required for all events.

Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, 1 Lancer Way, Winona Lake. 574.372.5100, lakes.grace.edu.

Do YOU have an upcoming event? Great! We’re happy to share the news.

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

SYRACUSE EGG HUNT

Lakeside Park. Open to all children ages 10 and under. Each group will have their own time to hunt for eggs. Those start at: 10 a.m. for ages 0-3; 10:30 a.m. for ages 4-6; and 11 a.m. for ages 7-10. After the hunt, each child that returns the eggs will receive a treat. Three golden eggs will be hidden for each age group for a special prize. Kids should bring their own Easter baskets.

ROCHESTER, FULTON COUNTY

REMC EASTER EGG HUNT

Fulton County REMC is sponsoring an Easter egg hunt at the Outlet Youth Center, 491 Apache Drive. Festivities start at 4 p.m., with the hunt at 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

PIERCETON-WASHINGTON

TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

EGG HUNT

The event also includes lunch, snacks, and crafts. Only a few may participate in each age group, and people should sign up on the sheet at the library through Friday, March 24. Ages 2-4 will go 11:30 a.m. to noon; ages 5-12 at 12:15-1:15 p.m.; and ages 13-18 from 1:302:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

AKRON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EASTER EGG HUNT

10:30 a.m. to noon, Pike Memorial Park. There are different start times for each age group. Those are: 11:30 a.m. for ages 0-3; 11:35 a.m. for ages 4-6; 11:40 a.m.

for ages 7-9; and 11:45 a.m. for ages 10-12. One adult is allowed to assist each of those in the ages 0-3 group. There will be 6,000 eggs and prizes, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and a spring petting zoo.

MENTONE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EASTER EGG HUNT

10 a.m. at Mentzer Park.

NORTH WEBSTER COG COMMUNITY EASTER

EGG HUNT

10 a.m., Camp Crosley. This is a FREE event hosted by North Webster Church of God in partnership with Camp Crosley. With 20,000 eggs, there are plenty for everyone age 0-12. The hunts are split into four age appropriate hunt zone times, so people

may watch each of their kids participate. There will be free hot cocoa and doughnuts, a petting zoo, a craft, and story. The Easter Bunny will be walking around the grounds ready for photos. People should preregister for the event by going to tinyurl.com/ nwcogegghunt23. Check-in starts at 9:30 a.m. and the event at 10 a.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 9

HAPPY EASTER!

SUNDAY, APRIL 9

CHILDREN’S EASTER EGG HUNT

Warsaw First United Methodist Church, 179 S. Indiana St, Warsaw. Easter egg hunt for kids after the 9 a.m. service.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”

— Audrey Hepburn, actress + humanitarian

Bon Appétit

by Christy Smith, MNT, nutrition counselor

Spinach Artichoke

Chicken Skillet

Spinach and artichoke go hand in hand in this quick and easy one-skillet dish. It’s best served over rice or pasta, but it’s also great as is.

photo by Christy Smith

INGREDIENTS

For the chicken:

3-4 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon dried basil

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon oil

For the sauce:

1 tablespoon oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup chicken broth

1 13.5–ounce can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream for a more decadent option)

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 tablespoon flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 14–ounce jar quartered artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

2 cups spinach

red pepper flakes, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Season the chicken breast on both sides with basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat oil over medium heat in skillet. Sauté chicken breast on each side for 6-8 minutes. Transfer cooked chicken breast to a plate.

In the same skillet over medium heat, melt oil. Add garlic and onions, and sauté over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.

Add the chicken broth, coconut milk/ cream, lemon juice, flour, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Whisk together. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low. Stir in artichoke hearts and spinach. Return chicken to the skillet, and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Fun Facts:

Artichokes are known for being a source of both pre- and probiotics, which are excellent for maintaining a healthy gut biome. They’re a good source of protein and fiber, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Orange Julius

by Sue Pais

The beverage Orange Julius is a family tradition of sorts in my world. Give it a try, and you’ll see why! This recipe was handed down from multiple generations (hi, Uncle Fred)—and I’m happy to share with you, LAKElife readers.

It’s sweet, refreshing, delicious, and a perfect addition to your Easter day festivities.

(And yes, there’s still a chain of stores selling this fruity refresher—dating back to the 1920s! But we’ll still call it a family recipe. Hey, it’s more fun that way.)

If making this for your little bunnies this season, post a pic and tag us, won’t you? #lakelifemag (Instagram), or @lakelifemag (Facebook).

Happy Easter to you + all thirsty bunny-hopping egg seekers. Cheers!

INGREDIENTS

• 6 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup water

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 8 or 9 ice cubes

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine all ingredients (except ice cubes) in blender. Blend, then add ice cubes one at a time .

Food Finder

There’s no shortage of excellent food in Kosciusko County and surrounding counties. We’ll do our best to keep the list updated… if you see need for an addition or change, please contact us at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

BREMEN

Mean Bean Bistro & Brew 110 W. Plymouth St. 574.546.2500

Dutchmaid Eatery & Gifts 1535 3rd Rd. 574.546.2192

CLAYPOOL

Someplace Else Saloon 108 S. Main St. 574.566.3280

ETNA GREEN Etna Green Cafe 112 W. State St. 574.858.9081

GOSHEN Goshen Brewing Company 315 W Washington St 574.971.5324

Maple Indian Cuisine 127 S Main Street 574.533.0000

Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi 206 Johnston St. 574.533.8700

LEESBURG Little New York Family Restaurant 103 N. Main St. 574.453.2234

MENTONE

Mentone B&K 9396 W. State Road 25 574.353.7597

Bull Dog Saloon 101 E. Main St. 574.353.7408

MILFORD

Harry’s Tap & Grill 132 S. Main St. 574.696.1101

NAPPANEE

Bourbon Street Pizza 1411 E. Market St. 574.773.9600

bourbonpizza.com

Culinary Mill Market & Deli 401 E. Market St. 574.773.0214

Good Vibes Nutrition 1536 E. Market St. 574.612.8782

The Dutch Kernel 401 E. Market St. 260.499.1614 thedutchkernel.shop

NORTH WEBSTER

Pizza King of North Webster 405 S. Dixie Dr. 574.834.2565

Bourbon Street Pizza 643 N. Main St. 574.834.4444

Hot Head Burritos 635 N. Main St. 574.244.2233 hotheadburritos.com

PIERCETON

Taproot Brewhouse & Company

130 N. First St. 260.610.6644

SILVER LAKE

Lakes Grill Restaurant 9665 IN-15 260.352.2662

Pizza King 806 N. Jefferson St. 260.352.0352

SYRACUSE

China Star

734 S. Huntington St. 574.457.8070

Chubbie’s Pub-N-Grub

Voted best restaurant by SyracuseWawasee Chamber in 2016. Burgers, prime rib, pizza, wings, fries— and best yet, they have Tenderloin Tuesdays. Multiple beers on-tap daily + watch sports on the TVs. 1201 S. Huntington St. 574.457.3855

Down Under 801 N. Huntington St. 574.457.3920

Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme Shop

With more than 40 flavors of handdipped gourmet ice cream, can it get any better? We thinketh not! Where waffle cones are handmade every day, Joe’s serves up friendly faces, along with their fabulous ice cream, shakes, malts, and sundaes. Yes, please.

1201 S. Huntington St. 574.457.8763

Kiyomi Japanese Cuisine 404 S. Huntington St. 574.529.5025

Mad Anthony Brewing Company 113 E. Center St. 574.268.2537 madbrew.com

Man Cave Brewing Company

Local brewery with full bar and restaurant. Menu features salads, sandwiches, and entrees. A local favorite for pub burgers, steaks, and craft beer. Sign. Us. Up. 10201 IN-13 574.337.1308 mancavebrewing.com

Mug Shots Coffeehouse and Eatery 10203 IN-13

574.337.1307

Oakwood Coffee and Creamery 702 E. Lake View Rd. 574.457.7100

Peterson’s Fish 1009 S. Huntington St. 574.528.5000

Pizza Hut 1112 S. Huntington St. 574.457.8300

Pizza King 719 S. Huntington St. IN-13

574.457.5446

Syracuse Cafe 607 N. Huntington St. 574.457.5293

WARSAW Biryani Kitchen 114 S. Buffalo St. 574.376.4349

Oak and Alley 2308 E. Center St. 574.387.6114

Palette, An American Eatery 2521 E. Center 574.268.1733

Red Apple House of Pancakes 2616 Shelden St. 574.267.3007

Ruby Tuesday 3308 E. Center St. 574.269.7821

Side House Grill 2604 Shelden St. 574.267.2112

Starbucks 1150 Husky Trail 574.371.9000

Tacos Jalisco 1215 N. Detroit St. 574.377.1039

Taqueria El Comal 828 E. Winona Ave. 574.267.1501

Thai House Restaurant 820 E. Winona Ave. 574.267.5988

The Buzz on Buffalo 114 N. Buffalo St. 574.267.2622

Three Crowns Coffee 941 N. Detroit St. 574.216.1655

Time Out Inn 1701 W. Lake St. 574.269.5700

Wings Etc. 3416 Lake City Hwy. 574.268.2299

Wire & Steam Coffee Company 2858 Frontage Rd. 574.306.2075

Wong’s Restaurant 835 Anchorage Rd. 574.269.3778

WINONA LAKE Cerulean 1101 E. Canal St. B 574.269.1226

The Boat House 700 Park Ave. 574.268.2179

photos: shutterstock.com

Basics OnBasil

Planting:

Basil is a simple plant to grow from seed, or purchase an existing plant from your local gardening expert to plant in your garden.

Water: Basil requires its soil to be kept moist—at all times. As such, basil needs frequent watering and will grow best if kept in a well-draining pot or well-drained soil. That said, however, basil leaves can be overly sensitive to moisture, so should be watered from the base of the plant.

A staple of most any gardener’s haven, basil is a chef’s most agreeable companion in the kitchen—and in the garden, its aromatic properties are resistant to deer and rabbits, so it’s a gardener’s pal as well.

Companions:

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit.

Basil’s besties are:

flowers: marigolds, nasturtiums vegetables: tomatoes, bell peppers, asparagus, potatoes, root vegetables (carrots/beets), garlic other herbs: cilantro, borage, oregano, chives, chamomile, parsley, marjoram

Avoid growing basil with: cucumbers, as basil negatively affects flavor of cucumbers

fennel, as fennel attracts insects

thyme + sage, as both require drier soil

Meal-prep ideas for your basil:

Margherita pizza – top whole leaves on pizza

Red pasta sauces with whole or chopped basil leaves Chop + add to salads

• Add to homemade caprese

• Add to tomato sandwiches (yes, they’re a thing— and delicious!)

• Garnish on avocado toast

Basil-based charcuterie:

Want to incorporate beautiful basil leaves into your next charcuterie board? Try this combo:

Basil + white cheddar + roasted, smashed garlic + squash + honey

A senior living community offering all levels of care, from independent, to assisted living, and long-term care.

Order

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We Deliver!

•Annuals: Petunias • Geraniums • Tulips and more!

•Garden Seeds and Starts: Stock up on all your favorite vegetable and fruit options!

•Liquid Fertilizers and insect repellents: Check out our Fertilome Poducts!

• Garden Seeds and Starts Stock up on all your favorite vegetable and fruit options!

• Liquid Fertilizers and Insect Repellents Check out our Fertilome Products!

• Bagged and Bulk Mulch and Soil

Dark Brown, Black, Fine Black and Red Mulch in bulk!

LAKElife Magazine April 2023 63

just 3 miles west of downtown Topeka on CR 700 S, watch for our opening in late March (weather permitting).

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."

— Lao Tzu, ancient Taoism philosopher

Keep It , Sailors Safe

by Mike Petrucelli

Boating, as we all know, is meant to provide fun, relaxation, excitement—or all of these at once. One other element of boating, of course, is safety. Naturally there are important rules and regulations—many of which can differ from one another depending on the type of boat or body of water, among other things. But just as a refresher, here are the five most common boating violations, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources:

1. Personal flotation devices: Every boat should be equipped with at least one life jacket per person on a watercraft. In addition, any boat that measures 16 feet or longer is required to have a Type IV throwable flotation device on board as well.

2. Boat registration: Boat registrations need to be renewed every year, just like an automobile. Be sure all paperwork and numbering is current before heading out on the water.

3. Boating while intoxicated: Again, as with automobiles, it is illegal to operate a motorboat or personal watercraft while intoxicated (this includes both alcohol and drugs). Under Indiana law, intoxication is defined as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher, or being impaired by other drugs. Intoxication can also refer to a person with less than .08 percent BAC but is behaving “such that a person’s thoughts and actions are impaired and he or she has a loss of normal control of faculties to such an extent as to cause danger to others.” It is also illegal to allow someone who is impaired to operate your boat.

4. Watch your speed: Don’t be tempted to hit the gas if you’re in an idle zone. And if you’re not in an idle zone, but it’s after sunset, there is a 10 mile per hour speed limit on all inland waters in Indiana.

5. Keep a lookout: Water skiing is fun. Tubing is fun. Wakeboarding is a blast. Accidents are not. You’ll need at least three people on board if you plan on towing anyone: One driver, one person having all the fun, and at least one more person to keep an eye on the person being towed.

This is certainly not an exhaustive list. Many more regulations abound (for instance, if you don’t have a driver’s license, you’d best take a boater safety class and have your card on you). Visit in.gov/dnr/law-enforcement/education/boating-educationand-safety/ for more information on Indiana boating rules and regulations.

Summer Boating Trends

by Mike Petrucelli

And if someone’s had all winter to think about being on the water, maybe their thoughts are turning to some upgrades, or a whole new type of boating (or even a whole new boat!) altogether.

We think they’ll float your boat.

Ah, spring. The season in which a boater’s fancy turns to thoughts of, well, his or her love for boating.

More Hands On Deck

Lynn Hornyak, sales manager at Patona Bay Marina & Resort in Leesburg, has been seeing interest in the newer look to deck boats. Mainly, they’re a little bigger on the interior now.

Hornyak mentioned specifically the Starcraft SVX series, which, he said, starts in the low $40,000 price range for a 17-foot boat with a 90 horsepower motor. What people have liked, he said, is that while they maintain some of the best and versatility of a deck boat, they have been designed to have seating that more closely resembles that of a roomier pontoon boat.

It’s still possible to have a great time skiing, tubing, or wakeboarding, but if you need to, you can get as many as 10 or more people on the boat, he said.

“It’s wide open, it’s functional … people love them,” he said, adding that they are easy to haul and store. Order wait times have also dropped from one year (during the pandemic) to an average of four to six months.

Time For A ‘Toon up

Something else that has seen more interest according to Hornyak is pontoon boats, specifically of the triple pontoon variety. The third pontoon makes them more stable on the water. Some models also have lifting strakes, which are metal attachments welded to the pontoons, helping lift the boat so it moves along the surface of the water rather than hitting waves head on. This allows for a faster and smoother ride with better turning.

Pontoons are popular for the space they offer, and for a group or family that doesn’t surf, ski, or wakeboard too often, “but you can still have a lot of fun,” he said.

“It creates another entertainment space,” Hornyak said. “You can have people at the front talking and people in the back doing their thing.”

If that doesn’t seem fun enough, Starcraft also offers a model, the CX 23 DL Bar, which has fast become one of the most popular pontoon options, Hornyak said. This version is made for a relaxing day trip. The spoiler is right there in the name: This pontoon includes a bar table and stools. And when eating and drinking time is over, the stools move back and the table folds down into a double chaise. Meanwhile there’s still seating elsewhere in the boat.

Pro Tip

Another boat that’s available at Main Channel Marina in Syracuse, according to Main Channel president Jason Cripe, is the Sea Pro 219 Deep V center console boat. Sea Pro suggests these boats are great for fishing and for recreation. They can be customized with all sorts of options, including an onboard fresh water shower and even an onboard head.

No matter what your lake-going pleasure of choice may be, there’s a boat waiting for you in LAKElife Country.

Sea Pro 219

CX23 DL Bar

CX23 DL Bar Bed

by Mike Petrucelli

Off The Turf + On The Surf Mark Richards, owner and general manager of Pro Wake Watersports (North Webster) and Surf Shop (Syracuse), said that surfing is still “very, very hot” this year.

“Everybody’s gravitating towards that,” he said, adding that the boards equipped with foils and e-foils are high on enthusiasts’ lists. Foil surfboards can get up on the water by way of the rider pumping manually; the e-foils use battery power to get up on the water.

Bells + Whistles

customize your lake experience with these accessories

Boats are great, no doubt about that. But there’s always those extra touches that elevate a great day into a fantastic one, and this season is no exception with its offerings of new, or new-andimproved special touches to trick out your aquatic ride.

Let there be lights (except for two colors) Richards also said that ‘boat lighting’ is another way someone can make their boat suit their personal style.

It used to be if you wanted to put lights on your boat, you could have any color you wanted, as long as it was white. That has long since changed. Whether you’re looking to change out your docking lights or prefer some underwater lights on your boat, today you can pick your color of choice. Well, not all colors, per se. Red and blue lights are prohibited by Indiana law because those colors are reserved for law enforcement and emergency vehicles. But other than red and blue, the choice is yours.

Super storage

Looking for some extra cargo space onboard? Richards said if extra storage is your desire, manufacturers are always coming up with ingenious ways to store things. This year, look for storage containers that attach to the top of power towers on some boats, basically becoming the aquatic equivalent of a rooftop cargo case on a car.

Handsfree sound

Jason Cripe, president of Main Channel Marina, said that Malibu has upgraded its sound systems this year, with one particular feature that stands out: An auto-adjustment/equalizing function. Pretty much whatever type of music you’re playing, the system will automatically adjust treble and bass depending on the genre.

And when you're off the

water … Perhaps there will be times when you prefer some wheels, instead. Yes, this summer’s lake life accessories extend beyond the waves of the water. Main Channel Marina is also stocking electric bicycles as well—so you can get to the lake from home without worrying about parking or burning up all your energy just getting there. Or, maybe staying dry on a tour around the lake sounds refreshing— soak in lake views instead of soaking within the water on one of these electric bikes.

Whatever fits your water-loving fancy, there’s likely an accessory to fit your wish.

We asked for hiking pics… and as always, LAKElife readers answered! Congratulations to April’s winner: Nature around Lake Wawasee is meant to be explored!

Submitted by Arielle Elise Photography.

Want to submit an image for a future LAKElife photo contest? It’s easy. Send to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

May Momentstheme:with Mom.

Submit by April 6—hurry!

June theme: Moments with Dad.

Submit by May 5

Kickin’ It

in Kosciusko County!

by Mary Jane Bogle

photo by Autumn Gregory + The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams

Spring has finally sprung, and now is the perfect time to plan an “all-in-a-day” excursion in Kosciusko County! Whether you want to explore the area’s vast network of trails and nature preserves, go on a sculpture scavenger hunt, or snag a deal at any number of boutiques, you can find something for everyone this spring in Kosciusko County.

Day Trip #1 – Hiker’s Heaven

Start your day at Wildwood Preserve near Silver Lake. This lovely, 235-acre nature sanctuary offers a 2.5 mile loop trail for hiking and walking. Considered a moderately challenging hiking route, it’s open year-round, and our four-legged companions are always welcome on a

leash. Look for gorgeous spring flowers and budding trees—and remember to bring your birdwatching binoculars!

When you’ve had your fill of nature’s bounty, head north to Old Chinworth Bridge Trail, located at 3495 W. Old Road 30 in Warsaw. The Chinworth Bridge,

one of the few surviving structures built by the Bellefontaine Bridge and Iron Company, is the last Pratt through truss bridge remaining in Kosciusko County. Its beautiful red trusses, spanning the Tippecanoe River, make it an ideal location for family photos, so be sure to take advantage of the photo-op before your hike.

What is a Pratt through truss bridge?

The Pratt truss was first developed in 1844 under patent of Thomas and Caleb Pratt. Prevalent from the 1840s through the early twentieth century, the Pratt has diagonals in tension, verticals in compression, except for the hip verticals immediately adjacent to the inclined end posts of the bridge.

Source: roads.maryland.gov

Feel free to pack a picnic, or stop by the Oak and Alley at 2308 E. Center Street in Warsaw for a craft burger and some PBJ fries. Wrap up your day here, or venture forth on even more adventures through Kosciusko’s many other trails and preserves. (For a complete list of other trails to explore, check out visitkosciuskocounty.org/trail-spaces.)

Day Trip #2 – Artist’s Avenue Trails aren’t just for hiking. Thanks to All Things Art, the Kosciusko County Art Asset Map, you can track down artistic inspiration throughout the county on a spring sculpture scavenger hunt. See if you can spot the Winona Queen, Perpetual Fire, or Generosity as you meander through the 5.2 miles of the Heritage Trail, which winds through Winona Lake and the surrounding woods. All 14 sculptures represent a part of Winona Lake’s heritage (hence the name of the trail!).

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the lake, then cruise through the county to catch a glimpse of more sculptures and murals. You can find a complete list at visitkosciuskocounty.org/art-spaces/.

Wrap up the day at One Ten Craft Meatery in Warsaw, where you’ll enjoy a wide range of locally sourced dishes. Feeding a family on a budget? You might prefer the American Table Restaurant, also in Warsaw, with its large menu selection and family-friendly prices.

Day Trip #3 – Shopper’s Dream

Trail hiking not your thing? No worries!

Grab a cup of joe at the Light Rail Café first thing, then get ready to explore the boutiques in the Village at Winona, where you’re sure to snag unique finds at shops such as Mucky Duck, Mud Love, and Canal Street Market. From there, head north on State Road 13 to Heart of the Lakes antique store in North Webster for a glimpse of yesteryear.

What To Wear. What To Bring.

Make the most of your adventure by packing these essentials:

• Clothing layers – This is spring in Indiana, after all! Layer up for any weather, and be sure to pack a light rain jacket…just in case.

• Supportive shoes – Whether you’re hiking the trail or planning to shop ‘til you drop, solid footwear is a must!

• Snacks and drinks – Extend your excursion with essential nutrients guaranteed to keep the crew happy and hydrated while you wander.

• Phone – Capture your adventures and post them in real time. (Remember to tag #Lakelifemag!)

• Journal – Record your thoughts, create a leaf rubbing, or make a sketch of your finds. Pack it all in a small backpack and get ready to enjoy your day!

Finally, give your closet a spring refresh at the Revolving Closet in Syracuse, and don’t forget to grab some grub at Chubbie’s PubN-Grub. (Wait until the end of the month, and you just might manage to get your first taste of Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme. Check their Facebook page for updates on openings.)

Whichever option you choose, be sure to post your selfies on your favorite social media channels, and tag us with #Lakelifemag and #DayExcursions so we can all share in your adventures!

Parasites Put The ICK in Tick

Early spring brings nature to life—including, rather unfortunately, the small bloodsucking parasites we know as ticks!

Here’s what we asked—and what you should know—answered by our very own LAKElife medical pro (with 30+ years of medical experience), Jerry Parsons, PA-C, Lutheran Health Physicians, Walk-in Clinic, Syracuse.

What if we see a tick on our skin?

Remove it immediately—but how it’s removed is important, so I suggest visiting CDC.gov for the Tick Bite Bot tool, a mobile-friendly tool that guides users through steps to properly remove the tick. After removal, place the tick in a sealed bag, and store in the freezer for possible ID if needed. Do not apply nail polish, petroleum jelly, or heat from a match to kill the tick first—doing so may cause the tick to regurgitate into the feeding site and increase the chance of infection.

What kind of tick is most known for transmitting Lyme Disease?

Tick nymphs (stage two of three in a tick’s life cycle—in early spring, when they’re about the size of a poppy seed) are the most common to pass the disease. Visit CDC.gov for an image gallery.

What are the symptoms of Lyme Disease?

Symptoms typically begin 3-30 days after detachment. Usually a red, bullseyeshaped rash with a central clearing at the bite site appears. The bite site can be very

itchy immediately after the initial bite, but not typically with the appearance of the rash. These rashes can be missed initially, and later, symptoms can present with neurological and/or arthritic symptoms.

What precautions should we take?

Areas known for ticks are where grassy lands meet woodlands. So, while hiking or camping this spring, apply DEET or other approved tick deterrent to skin and clothing, and wear hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants with pantlegs tucked into socks. Right after your activities, remove all clothing in a garage, if possible. Then wash clothes immediately in hot water, and dry them for one hour on a dryer’s hottest setting. Bathe or shower as soon as possible and then conduct a full-body tick check with a handheld mirror, paying special attention to the waist, between legs, back of knees, inside the belly button, under arms, in and around ears, and around the hair.

References: CDC, The Journal of Urgent Care Medicine, Purdue University College of Agriculture Medical Entomology

Ask A Med

photos: shutterstock.com

April GratitudeList

Yes, we’re back with another season of expressed gratitude. Isn’t it such a thing of beauty?

You bet it is.

Listed below are names submitted by LAKElife readers. See your name on the list? It means someone APPRECIATES YOU.

Carlyle Baenen

Ann + Wes Bell

Bruce Lankenau

Herman + Linda Miller

Joe + Sue Pais

Cindy Robinson

Carol Rohlfs

John and Kris Schlagenhauf

Bette Seitz

Neah Seitz

Jim Thwaits

Jack Tierney

Dave + Andrea Worthy

Tom + Leslie Worthy

Who do YOU want to THANK? No need to tell us why. Just a name. Easy-peasy. Send to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

And, hey, thank you.

Getting Fit It’s Bigger than Biceps

by Mary Jane Bogle

In recent years, the way we think about fitness has changed. Gone are the days of spending hours at the gym in search of the perfect physique. Today, people are less interested in outward appearance and are pursuing a healthy lifestyle in body, mind, and spirit.

The good news is that you don’t have to travel to the gym or a spa to achieve those goals. Now more than ever, it’s possible to reach your targets for renewal in body, mind, and spirit at home.

Physical Fitness – There’s an App for That!

Thanks to the explosion of fitness apps and internet-based fitness plans, it’s easier than ever to gain muscle mass and increase cardiovascular health at home. Here are just a few workout options for all different ages, interests, and abilities:

• Wall Pilates – Great for people hoping to increase strength and flexibility

• 5K Runner: couch potato to 5K – Perfect for those seeking beginner running plans

• Dance Cardio – Ideal for those who want to mix up their workouts with a bit of fun

Many apps offer tracking options for calories, fat, protein, and hydration, too, helping you improve your nutrition while you train.

Mental Fitness –Three Tips to Boost Your Brainpower

Research shows that even small amounts of mental stimulation each day can boost your brain power and even prevent memory loss. Here are three great ways to stimulate your mind:

• Memory games – Improve your mental acuity through any number of word games and puzzles. Wordscapes, Words with Friends, and Wordle are all great choices.

• Books – Spring is the perfect time to explore a new author or topic. After all, who doesn’t love lounging at the lake with a good read? Even better: make it social by joining a book club—or hosting one yourself.

• Podcasts – Podcasts have exploded in popularity and offer fresh learning opportunities in all kinds of topics; they’re perfect for people on the go!

These programs also come in a wide variety of price ranges and sometimes offer discounts to first-time users, a bonus for anyone who doesn’t want to invest in long-term plans or expensive equipment. And with the plethora of trails around the lake region, you can always take advantage of the sunshine and fresh air—for free!

Spiritual Fitness – Dive into Daily Discipline

Spiritual fitness is essential for total wellbeing. Just as other forms of fitness work best with friends, so does life in the spiritual realm. Missing the camaraderie of other believers? Now might be the perfect time to get back in fellowship. And don’t forget the daily practice of scripture reading, journaling, and prayer.

Remember that improvement in just one area of fitness typically boosts success in others. Thanks to endorphins released during exercise, for instance, physical fitness can improve your mood and bring you better sleep. Likewise, spiritual renewal brings hope and healing to the mind. Pursuing all three forms of fitness simultaneously is the best way to achieve your goals.

Lemons+Sunshine

by Courtney Hladish

The sense of smell triggers more memories than

in our bodies.

The scent of lemon gives a clean, energizing, and moodboosting feeling, doesn’t it? Lemon/citrusy scents have shown to have a positive effect on the limbic system which is directly correlated with our brain’s behavioral and emotional responses (now it makes sense!).

So, add some extra lemon to your home this spring to help you, too, feel more energized. Here are a few lemon-scented products to brighten your spring routine this year:

- Mrs. Meyers Lemon Verbena

Multi-surface Cleaning Spray: phosphate-free and will have your house smelling clean and refreshed.

- Lemon Blondies: this tangy recipe only takes 25 minutes to reach lemon-y perfection.

- Bath + Body Works 3-wick Candle: Sugared Lemon Zest

- Burt’s Bees Lemon Sorbet

Lip Treatment with Vitamin C

Lemon Blondies

Lifestyleofafoodie.com

• ½ cup butter salted or unsalted, melted and cooled down

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

• 2 eggs at room temperature

• 2 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon lemon extract

• 1 cup flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

any other sense

And, since LAKElife is all about family, moments, and memories, it makes ‘sense’ (no pun intended) to share some scents that trigger all the feel-goods.

For the lemon glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest optional

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350F, then line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a medium/large bowl whisk the cooled down melted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together.

3. Add in the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract, and mix to combine.

4. Gently fold in the flour and salt until the flour mixture disappears. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spread the lemon blondie batter evenly, and bake for 16-17 minutes. The blondies won't look golden brown.

5. Let the lemon blondies cool fully before topping with the glaze.

6. Make the lemon glaze.

7. In a small/medium bowl whisk the powdered sugar and lemon juice until a thick pourable glaze forms.

8. Pour the glaze on top of the cooled-down blondies, spread it all over the top, and let it set and harden before slicing it into your lemon dessert!

Brake For These Spring Fashions

It’s upon us: Spring Break—the unofficial ‘pre-game’ to lake season. So, grab the gals and embark on an epic shopping trip for sunny, hot fashions. Whether your fashion needs are for road-tripping “Florida or Bust” with the fam,’ flying to the tropics, or simply seeking an Easter dress for your special egg-hunting bunnies, you’re likely to find it right here, within our lake home of Kosciusko County.

Absolutely Apparel & Gifts

509 S. Huntington St., Syracuse 574.457.8887

absolutelyapparel.com

If You’re (Lake) Happy ..and you know it, clap your hands (and maybe order a drink). And don’ this brightly colored t-shirt while you’re at it. It reads happy because it just is.

Brooch Boutique

103 E. Center St., Warsaw, 574.223.3146

Shopbrooch.com

Spring Into Fashion

with bright, cheery tops + fab’ fashions. Check out their cute shop + array of spring attire to color your days happy.

In The Bag

So we’ve heard, bag maker. So we’ve heard. (Isn’t this fun to bring on the dock or your Spring Break vacay?! Yes, yes it is!)

Morning Moments start in coffee mugs like this.

The Spectacle Shoppe

2314 Dubois Dr., Warsaw, 574.269.5258

Thespectacleshoppeinc.com

Fancy Frames

With the coming of spring, why not focus on new frames as colorful as the season’s spirit? What an uplifting sight, clearly. (See what we did there?)

The Revolving Closet

702 N. Huntington St. Syracuse

574.457.4280

therevolvingcloset.com

We All Know they’re required footwear at the lake. On the dock. On vacay. In the grocery store.

This Is Jacobs Rugs

Thisisjacobsrugs.com, Facebook: @thisisjacobsrugs

We Couldn’t Agree More, Jacob

This designer + inspiring young man creates unique apparel and rugs—all the while advocating for the Down-syndrome community. Through his artistic designs, he shares messages of kindness and positivity. If this shirt is no longer available, additional cheery vibes await. We love you, Jacob.

Beyond The Barn

105 N. First St., Pierceton, 574.253.3362

Facebook: @beyondthebarn2

The Mucky Duck

901 E. Canal St., Winona Lake 574.306.2906

Facebook: @themuckyduckinthevillage

All In The Details

Spring Break means flowy beach fashions—finished with the best detail, every gal’s bestie—fun, brightly colored earrings.

Everybunny Likes A Bunny

…especially during Easter. Check out all the great home décor, just a hop away in Pierceton.

Color Me Happy with these fun shorts that go best with sunshine and water.

Because Cute Ears aren’t just for bunnies.

Come Home to Quality

For nearly 40 years, the T.L. Jackson family has been making dreams a reality on time and within budget. Whether building or renovating, we listen carefully to your needs, design the perfect solution and deliver a quality built home you’ll love for many years to come.

Fired Up!

for Early Spring

by Shelley Galbreath | photo by Sue Pais

After a winter spent snuggling around the fireplace inside the home, who isn’t fired up about branching out onto the deck and/or patio to enjoy an outdoor ‘fire’ feature?

Whether you like to entertain or prefer to just spend time with the family, here are some ideas to get you fired-up about spending time in your own backyard oasis.

Professional Hardscape Bonfire Pits

When it comes to adding ambiance and warmth to the back yard getaway, there is nothing quite like a crackling hardscape fire pit to create a gathering place. Most hardscape fire pits are designed by local landscape and concrete professionals and the design complements the

home and landscape. This is a popular choice for those who desire a larger scale hardscape which may include a grilling area as well as other features.

Fire pits come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. The more traditional fire pits come in a variety of materials such as stone, brick, concrete, or even stainless steel. The heat source is varied as well—from natural gas, electric, propane, or wood.

DIY Hardscape Fire Pits

For the do-it-yourselfers, hardscape concrete paver fire pit kits are stylish and come in a variety of patterns, colors, and sizes. They are ready-to-assemble with all the pieces and instructions needed to build an outdoor fire pit in about an hour, and can be placed on an existing patio or landscape.

Outdoor Wood Pizza Ovens

Pizza ovens are a popular choice for homeowners, probably because these ovens have the potential to make authentic home-cooked pizzas and vary in size and moveability. The stationary pizza oven cannot be moved and is usually built into the hardscape with design options ranging from small to expansive. The outdoor mobile pizza oven is oftentimes made of metal rather than stone or brick and uses propane or wood.

Smokeless Fire Pits

Smokeless fire pits have become an extremely popular option for the backyard patio and deck. This variety of fire pit extend the enjoyment of the backyard space into the evening hours—without the smoke and ash of traditional bonfires. These pits use a variety of fuel such as gas, wood, propane, or pellets, and range from small portable fire pits to full-size versions. Propane smokeless fire pits are simple to light and produce no smoke at all, while wood and pellet fire pits burn hotter, but do produce ash. Gas models burn cleaner with fewer emissions than wood or pellets.

Outdoor Fireplaces

Hardscape outdoor fireplaces are another popular fire feature for the backyard, and range from wood burning to propane to natural gas, and are oftentimes built into the hardscape.

Woodburning fireplace kits are also available and include everything needed for constructing the outdoor fireplace, along with coordinating stone blocks to build the surround. Safety and durability are maintained using fully welded steel that is dipped in high heat resistant paint.

Indoor S’mores Maker

There’s nothing quite like roasting marshmallows with friends and family, but what if the weather doesn’t cooperate for your event? There are several different miniature versions of the classic firepit that allows s’mores at any time, indoors or out. Just place it on a table and voila, it’s time to roast. S’mores makers can be found at several retailers.

Outdoor Flicker Candles

Waterproof outdoor flameless pillar candles with a remote and timer are weatherproof, won’t melt, can withstand rain or sunlight and work well in cold environments. They are ideal for lanterns and the flicker brightness of the LED bulbs emit a bright warm yellow light, flickering slightly just like natural candlelight. The brightness is adjustable to fit the ambiance.

These are a few of the most popular options for flame-loving families who enjoy the ambiance in their own backyards. Yes, there’s a plethora of options to choose from to make your backyard the hottest one on the block.

MartinRiley architects ▪ engineers has been serving clients since 1986. We have designed over 600 customized homes, with no two plans alike. Our team works closely with you to produce a functional and stunning design that showcases the natural beauty of your environment, optimizing the outdoor view.

To discuss your vision, contact our lead residential architect Lisa Weaver. 221

Abundant windows provide year-round views of the lake. “All of the seasons bring about a natural beauty that we can enjoy from every room in our home,” said Jeannie.

This two-story, four bedroom and four bath lake home has 75 feet of lake frontage.

Welcome to the Stouder family lake home, a modern Craftsman-style lakefront retreat, designed to be host to family and friends for plenty of play, rest and relaxation, as well as energized entertainment.

This beautiful Winona Lake home, built by Timber Rock Construction and designed by Martin Riley Architects, flows seamlessly from room to room, offering abundant lake views, and an array of modern focal accents, unique lighting, and all the fun extras a busy family might desire.

If homeowners Nick and Jeannie Stouder, and their children Gianna and Dylan, aren’t playing in the summer waters, they’re busy embracing all that surrounds the lake: fun, family, friends, nature, and their beautiful, custom-designed property.

photos by Danielle Anderson

Modern details adorn the home, including this modern focal accent wall in the home’s entry.

Designed for relaxing + watching the big game on the tv, while enjoying the fireplace as well, this great room is a favorite hangout for the Stouders.

This stone gas fireplace with raised hearth has a book case on either side, and a live edge wood mantle.

It’s all in the details—this kitchen’s custom cabinetry, glass tile backsplash, and Cambria quartz countertops (all by Warsaw Custom Cabinetry) together create an inviting space for a relaxed meal or energetic gathering.

This pantry has an easy Butler’s door that swings both ways, in and out.

The ceiling is accentuated with Craftsman-style wood beams, stained dark to optimize viewing of the wood’s unique grain.

Off the master bedroom, this full-enclosure porch has windows that slide down to have full view screens.

An ideal area for a private getaway is this large-tile master shower with his + her rain showerheads, a corner bench, soap niches, and beautiful glass shower door.

Great for entertaining, this rec room’s pool table and walk-up bar make this a fun area to hang out with friends.

“We love to entertain family and friends,” Jeannie said, “and for all to partake in the beauty and fun the property offers.”

Shout-out to the builder :

“Tyler and Troy have worked with us on multiple builds and projects and we find them extremely easy to work with,” said Nick. “Regarding costing/ forecasting they are top-notch, and take great care to communicate of all of the details.”

About the architect:

“Martin Riley did a fantastic job of making all of our personal drawings, ideas, and designs come to life as we were envisioning,” Nick said. “Jeannie and I had a singular design aesthetic we were going for—maybe loosely definable as ‘Modern Contemporary.’ What we wanted was essentially a modern look, yet we both love wood grain and wanted that featured heavily… Martin Riley effectively put our dream home on paper.”

“Sunset has a way of stopping everything else to capture one precious moment in time.”

Lainey + Mimi on a sunset cruise over Lake Wawasee. Image submitted by Justin Flamm.

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