LAKElife Magazine - August 2022

lakelifemagazine.com

Kosciusko County August 2022

Complimentary

magazine

F O T S E B

Dog Days Of Summer

Your votes are in!

Catfish Craze

With the best lake real estate advisors, with the best lake market, you will maximize your return and minimize your concerns. #1 RANKED AGENT AND TEAM OF THE YEAR FROM 2013-2021 IN THE UPSTATE ALLIANCE OF REALTORS IN SALES VOLUME

Lynn Reecer Team m 260.385.9866 o 260.434.5750 lynn.reecer@encoresir.com FB: The Lynn Reecer Team IG: @thelynnreecerteam LinkedIn: Lynn Reecer YouTube: Encore Sotheby’s International Realty

NE Indiana Lakes Office 920 S. Main Street, North Webster, IN 46555 Fort Wayne Office 5750 Coventry Lane Suite B1, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 Carmel Office 12411 N. Pennsylvania St. Suite 300, Carmel, Indiana 46032

© 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

D O N ’ T M I S S YO U R C H A N C E F O R

S U M M E R O N T H E WAT E R LIMITED NEW INVENTORY IS IN, BUT WON’T BE HERE LONG! SHOP OUR SELECTION TODAY AND LET YOUR SUMMER BEGIN!

720 SOUTH LAKESIDE DRIVE, SYRACUSE, IN 46567 1301 SOUTH HUNTINGTON ST., SYRACUSE, IN 46567 TOLL FREE 866-856-2628 / LOCAL 574-457-4200

Contents

26

Editor’s Letter

LAKE PEEPS

Comedic Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Those Who CREATE

Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Meet: This Is Jacob

Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . 10

Those Who SERVE

PhotoFun . . . . . . . . . . 14, 29, 39

Featured Opening Story Readers’ Choice: Best Of LAKElife Country . . . . .

Meet: Joe Tynan . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Those For A CAUSE . . . . . . 58

LAKE EATS 20

At A Glance Kosciusko County . . . . . . . . . . . 26

The Good Life August Appreciation . . . . . . . . 30

Day Of Play

Order Up Best Of: Comfort Food . . . . . . . 60

84

Refresher Sparkling Champagne Sangria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

62

Bon Appetit

Best Of: Day Of Play Fun . . . . 32

Summer Corn + Salmon Salad . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Historically Speaking

Food Finder

Gangsters Of LAKElife Country . . . . . . .

82

. . . . . . . . 54

Introducing: Quaker Haven Camp

COUNTY LAKE LIFE

30

64

AT HOME Trends Calm The Chaos: Home Organization . . . . . . . .

36

Your LAKElife Dining Favorites . . . . . . . . . . .

40

WATER + FAMILY FUN

The Heil Lake Home, Lake Wawasee . . . . . . . . . . .

Water Health

Lake Lifestyles . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Pollinators On Your Property . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Dirt

Making Waves

It’s Almost Fall Garden Time

Nature + Critters The Hoosier Banana . . . . . .

42

GETTIN’ BUSY Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 44 Bulletin Bits + Fish Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Local Finds The Heat Of Summer

. . . . .

50

Gratitude List . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

You’ll Want A Cover-Up: Protecting Your Boat . . . . . . .

68

72

84

Featured Home 88 94

REFLECTIONS Sunsets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

The Reel Story Catfish Craze . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

76

Family + Health 22 Ways To Wrap-Up The Season

. . . . . . 80

Reader Celebrations It’s The Dog Days! . . . . . . . . . . 82

Cover image: For those who say dogs don’t smile, well, meet Dixie.

Submitted by Dana Bogathy, Webster Lake.

THE

RGROUP - y��4,_, -

KELLER WILLIAMS THRIVE

Honored as #1 Sales Associate and #1 Listing Associate in 2020 & 2021

by Keller Williams Realty Group

Among the top 1.5% realtors nationwide by sales volume and transaction sides

Named the Top 1% of Keller Williams agents in the region (including northern IN and Chicago area) in 2021

Fort Wayne Newspapers 2022 Reader’s Choice Awards Contest Best Real Estate Company, and Best Real Estate Lake Company nominee

ANGIE RACOLTA

THE RGROUP REAL ESTATE

Welcome to the Lake!

The RGroup Real Estate team is an award winning top producing team and we know that buying or selling a home is an exciting and life-changing experience. Our goal is to get you moving quickly and easily with personalized white glove services.

Contact us to hear about our unique programs to help you find your place of happiness.

We also manage vacation rentals on the lakes.

1712 Willow Lane, Warsaw, IN MLS #202204503

Find your next home on our website www.TheRGroupRealEstate.com

Syracuse Office 201 E Bowser Road 574.457.3160

Email us: inquiry@TheRGroupTeam.com

Warsaw Office 220 S Buffalo Street 574.268.0001

Angie Racolta Realtor/Team Owner 317.750.1600 LAKElife Magazine August 2022

5

Editor's Letter

T

he plan to be a stand-up comic was flawless.

The audience, unhinged with uproarious delight, would clutch their stomachs + wipe away tears of laughter.

I practiced and practiced, you see.

And after each rehearsal, I’d step away from the mirror, chuckling to myself.

Then, I’d go outside to play. I was 10.

And undoubtedly, not as funny as I thought.

No, all dreams don’t go as planned.

Like when my husband said we should get a European Doberman: “Oh, honey, they’re cute. They’re protective.

They’re strong. Smart. It’ll be great!”

All was as planned except the last prediction.

Great has been a stretch.

Ne’er before: • had I unearthed an inner rage so akin to Hulk. I get you, Bruce.

• have I been tested with naughtiness so profound it’s actually impressive.

• have I met a dog with such physical power; even her kisses exfoliate multiple layers of skin.

And this is all post-training from a K-9 policeman.

Again, not all things go as planned.

But in time, life itself tweaks our plans to clearer paths. And then plans suddenly make sense. Jagged edges smooth, and even maniacal dobies chill. It’s experiencing opposite extremes to meet in the middle, as better versions of ourselves.

The month of August, too, is a time of extremes. We begin the month in fullfun-lake-mode. Each day is celebration. Cookouts are plentiful. Watching peaceful sunsets, a nightly ritual. Then during the month’s end, school schedules return. Kids go to college. Family routines alter, and a new daily norm is born.

But really, water fun can still continue. Cookouts may commence any night.

And sunsets? They’ll blaze their glory whether we make time to audience their brilliance or not. So make it a routine, year-round.

It’s about selectively celebrating the ‘best' times that bring us fulfillment—thereby creating our best lives. These are just some of the themes you’ll find within this issue.

Flip the pages to see “The Best Of LAKElife Country.” Find contest results from readers like you. Enjoy our play-on-words of ‘dog days of summer.’ Since fourlegged friends are as much a part of lake life as a cooler on a sunset cruise, we’re celebrating our pooch pals. See if your Buster, Jaxie, or Flufferbutt is in this issue.

In August, as we close the 2022 publishing season, please accept my humble appreciation for your interaction as part of our LAKElife family. This is your magazine. And I already can’t wait to see you again in spring. Until then, I’ll be making plans for next season—sans the comedy routine (you’re welcome), but with adequate fluidity for life’s own edits.

Enjoy this issue, readers. And please stay connected through social media + email.

I’ll be here, right beside my dobie.

Bella

hwwhhat?

S The 2022 print season is now concluded!

But… we’re still here.

Keep your comments + pics coming! Send to sue@lakelifemagazine.com. ay THANKS to someone S for being an amazing human. No need to explain why… just send a name to sue@lakelifemagazine.com. incere thanks to all S readers + advertisers — thank you for a splashy-great-fun season!

Warmly,

Sue Executive-Editor-Who-Quit-Stand-Up-In-Fourth-Grade

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Contributors

At LAKElife Magazine, we work a lot of hours. And, yes, we love what we do.

B

ut the four-legged pals who keep us uplifted deserve some credit, too. And when better than in August, the ‘dog days’ of summer?

Meet the silly/fun/sleepy/loving/beer-making pups behind the peeps who create the magazine made just for you.

Rigby + Rocky

Draco Loren Shaum, writer

Haiden Hibbert, writer

Bella (left) + Bentley (right) Sue Pais, executive editor

(Bentley left this world before publication.

Sniff-sniff.)

Charlie

Charlie + Lola

Christy Smith, columnist

Mary Jane Bogle, writer

Lakota

Boomer

Wilbur

Susan Stump, account executive

Jason Kissel, guest columnist

Jax Courtney Rawlinson, writer

Lucy Lu + Minni Mu Shelley Galbreath, writer

Leslie Worthy, columnist

Reyja + Watson

helping Mike make beer - Mike Petrucelli, writer

Rosie (left) + Roxy (right) Shelly Davis, webmaster LAKElife Magazine August 2022

7

life

magazine

Volume 3 Issue 5 | August 2022 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

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, Lauren Caggiano, Shelley Galbreath, John C. Gill, Haiden Hibbert, Jason Kissel, Mike Petrucelli, Courtney Rawlinson, Jennifer Romano, Loren Shaum, Christy Smith, Leslie Worthy CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Mike Deak, Morgan Miller, Sue Pais, Arielle Royer Photography, Loren Shaum, Christy Smith, Leslie Worthy

P.O. Box 188; 206 South Main St. Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796 www.lakelifemagazine.com So apparently Ron and I have had far too many blinking contests—because when we finally stopped blinking, the LAKElife Magazine season was coming to a close. Yep, all in the blink of an eye. Or, four eyes.

Okay, eight if you count our glasses.

But really, how can this already be the final issue of the season, I ask incredulously, blinking freaky-fast?

Yes, welcome to the fifth issue of our third season of beautiful existence. As a reminder, LAKElife Magazine prints five beautimous, fun, lake-loving-all-about-you issues each season, from April through August.

And, here we are in August, the hottest, most sultry, sweaty, ideal lake-lovin’ month of the year. The sun shines with consistency, sunrises and sunsets are always spectacular, and like the super-tall Ric Ocasek sang, we let the good times roll.

In August we’re celebrating what’s best. And while we celebrate the best readership all season long (see what we did there?), in August we focused on your votes for ‘Best of’ in LAKElife Country. Thanks, as always, for your voice + your vote!

We sure love what we do, and we’re eager for another fabulous summer month ahead of chill-out moments, appreciation, catching fireflies in bare feet (not with your feet—that’s just weird), splishysplashing in the water, and good times with family + friends. It’s what it’s all about.

In August we enjoy the play on words of ‘Dog Days.’

Next season include your Flufferbutt Fido, too. Join the fun! (Disclaimer: no offense to cats or birds or snakes or other side-kick critters you may have—we didn’t coin the term ‘dog days,’ but we’d gladly scratch the belly of whoever did.) Er, wait a second…

In August let’s embrace remaining lazy lake days—before routines + school schedules return. Let’s

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

celebrate family, always. Let’s intentionally notice our surroundings. Like we moms say at the dinner table: put away your phones, close the tablets, and sign-off from email. Then clean your plate, and step outside.

Fire-up the grill, have impromptu cookouts, make a big ole’ batch of sangria + invite your compadres for an afternoon fiesta, then siesta in the sunshine.

Speaking of siestas, in August, Ron and I will compete in a napping contest. It’s sure to be the most boring event in history. Free pillows for attendees.

Yes, think sloth-like-lethargy. At long last, I’ll win a contest.

Why? Because Ron is king of energy. Yes, you know the man by now. He’s this region’s true publisher extraordinaire, our leader, the man behind the scenes, with running shoes at-the-ready, and the one person who doesn’t sleep. It’s thanks to his publishing prowess that LAKElife Magazine is published for you. Yes, by The Papers Inc.—the same publishing house that’s been serving communities for more than 80 years, located at 206 S. Main Street, Milford, Indiana, 46542.

Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for Fridays when I blow off early after a full day of work. Then I’m very busy dancing with Bobby + Sweets, my birds. Witnessed only by a stern Doberman, Friday dance parties are full of fun until said dobie slams a scolding snout into the avian partiers’ cage. Every party has a pooper. And this one is a dobie named Bella.

Before I forget, here’s the only required paragraph: ‘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 this point if you’re not advertising with us, I must squawk like Bobby + shake my head while sneezing like Sweets and ask, “why not?” To learn how to advertise in the fastest growing, most fun + madefor-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@thepapers.com. I promise he won’t fall asleep, or make you dance.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS LAKElife Magazine contracts with freelance writers, photographers, and artists. If you’re interested in joining our creative-fest, just reach out. In fact, when in doubt about anything regarding this family-funlake-publication, I’m yer’ happy, helpful, dancing-andsometimes-nappin’ magazine gurl.

Therein concludes our fifth and FINAL 2022 secret, super-but-not-really-informative masthead. Enjoy this August issue—and give all four-legged pals some extra love this month.

A sincere thanks to all our amazing friends for reading + for making this a GREAT season.

574-862-1613

27888 CR 32 W. • Elkhart

www.qwdbarn.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

9

Letters To The Editor Sue, We thought the attached picture depicted a perfect sunset from our screened-in porch on Lake Papakeechie in Syracuse. Hope you agree!

–Brian and Lisa Bollow Indeed, I concur!

Letters to the Editor

Dear Sue, We really wanted to thank you for featuring our home in the May issue of LAKElife Magazine. We have received so many texts and comments on the article. It was a great article.

Thank you again. We really enjoy reading the magazine each month.

–Dee Beer Thank you, Dee, for the privilege to share your story.

When we said we loved your letters, we meant it!

Simply email us at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

Yes, it’s that easy.

Hi Sue, I came to the lake today, headed to the end of the pier, and started reading LAKElife magazine. I soon realized you are the editor of the magazine; what a wonderful surprise! I have always enjoyed reading magazines you have been a part of over the years. Keep up the beautiful work! I’ve spent pretty much my entire life coming to the lake so thought I would share a couple photos I’ve taken this summer.

Fondly, –Beth Wetherill It’s SO great to hear from you, Beth!

Thank you for the kind comments + blessings to you + yours.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Hi Sue, I have been wanting to send this picture in for a LONG time!

Here’s our pups Diego (standing) and McNally on the back of our pontoon enjoying Irish Lake! LOVE your magazine!!

–Gina and Greg Gebhardt

Hello!!

I was reading your magazine and saw that I could be featured in it!! I love to read these each month and really enjoy seeing the pictures others put in. The picture I chose was taken during my favorite time of the day—sunset. On Lake Webster there are some of the BEST sunsets I’ve ever seen. And I look forward to watching them each summer. Thank you!!

–Izzy McCulloch

I’m so glad you sent it in! I’ll include Diego + McNally on this issue’s ‘Celebrations’ spread, too.

Beautiful pic!

Here you go, Izzy! Keep soaking in those sunsets; they’re good for the soul.

Hi Sue, We saw in one of the LAKElife magazines that we could send in kids' fishing pictures for possibly having them in the magazine, so we thought we’d send a few. I grew up in Warsaw but live in Fort Wayne now, and our family did a week’s vacation on Lake Webster—where our 7-year-old son, Nathan, and 5-year-old daughter, Julia, caught these fish.

Thanks!

–Michael Cotton You saw correctly! Thank you for submitting the images… see our PhotoFun spread in this issue for your fave fisherpeeps!

Such a cute idea!! Please see attached for some great pup pics!! You may have a future journalist :) –Samantha Carr Consider your pup hired!

Hello Sue, Just wanted to let you know that the page 76 article in the April issue on ‘Uncork the Possibilities’ is cool. That is my dream room and is on my long bucket list. We have just completed one of the most coastal kitchens on Irish Lake. Included in this email are some sample pictures. You really gotta’ see it! And surprise, there is what we call the front door effect as well. If you are looking for an article, this may work. Love the magazine!!! Tell Ron, Lee and I said Hi!!!!!!!!!

–Mark & Lee Baumgartner, Irish Lake Consider your message forwarded, and methinks we can plan on a Coastal Kitchen story on Irish Lake during season 2023.

Open a front door + I’ll happily enter!

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

13

n u F o t Pho PhotoFun

issue d in a future te in r p s to o ph Want YOUR ? of L AKElife s to YOUR fave il a m E . o d Sure, you om. magazine.c sue@lakelife okie ak many a co and e sn l il w io is tr m, We predict th come… Meet Ryan, Lia (their to w in the years generation Cousin Cre 1920!).

Marley, a 5th n on Lake Webster since ee family has b 'Connell.

Submitted by

Erin O

Swinging into lake memories? Check(s).

A bevy of pretty marchers after the parade. From left: Daisy, Juliette, Noelle, Alice, Tes. Photo by Ron Baumgartner.

Princess Aiyanna is back… and this time she’s at the wheel!

Submitted by Amy Tipple.

14

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Lifejacket?

Check. Pink water bottle? Check.

Pink sunglasses?

Check. Cuteness overload? CHECK. Submitted by Therese Wallace.

Because the best floaties are froggies.

Submitted by Kate Leach.

Grandpa Gary + Grandma Gina take little Liam for a ride around the Barbee Lakes.

We can almost hear Denise’s infectious laughter from Grandpa’s boat on Barbee!

Even herons have places to go.

Submitted by Jim Molebash, Little Chapman Lake.

Airborne Gus after take-off and before a super splash into Syracuse Lake.

Submitted by Carole Barry.

Leo lulled to slumber by the humm of his first boat ride on Big Chapman.

Submitted by Melissa Montemayor.

graphics: shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

15

n u F o t o Ph PhotoFun

Notice one already-halfeaten cold treat and one untouched BubblesPowerpuff-Girl ice cream. Agh, lake life is a good life.

The fish were biting on Miss Julia’s line in Lake Webster this sunny day! Submitted by Michael Cotton.

Ahoy! Meet the 2022 Flotilla winners of Dewart Lake.

Submitted by Eric + Tami Overman.

We’d say Jorge + Diego are up to lots of cute brotherly mischief on the Barbee Lakes.

A proud little fisherguy, meet Nathan and his day’s catch from Lake Webster.

16

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Submitted by Michael Cotton.

Sweet little Liesl’s carrots are almost as long as she is.

What it’s all about: Right here in this pic. Submitted by Therese Wallace.

Submitted by Grandma Leslie.

A beautiful sunset + the fish were biting for Norm on Sechrist Lake.

Submitted by Lucia.

Mimi Rose is learning to paddleboard.

Great balance! Great job!

Submitted by Beth Wetherill.

“Bring it, Boomer,” said the swan.

Don’t worry, Wrigley (big dog in front).

We won’t tell anyone you wore a birthday hat.

Submitted by Samantha Carr.

graphics: shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

17

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

19

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Issue Opening Story

F O T S BE

At LAKElife, we’re all about celebrating + recognizing what’s amazing about our lake communities.

S

o, when we discussed hosting a ‘Best-of’ contest—comprised of votes cast from our readership, we knew it’d be pure fun with a tad of brilliance (if we do say so ourselves).

THANK YOU FOR VOTING. You’re the best.

Without further ado: You voted. We tallied. Here are the results.

BURGER

PLACE TO GRAB A SLICE

Who has the juiciest, meatiest, most mouthwatering burger?

We love us some ‘zza.

Here’s who readers said served the best slices…

#1- MAN CAVE BREWING CO.

#1- DANNY’S SPORTS BAR

#2 Oak & Alley #3 Chubbie’s Pub & Grub

#2 Bourbon Street Pizza #3 Pizza King

LAKESIDE DINING

PLACE FOR SUNNY-SIDE-UP

Food with a view is the best of ‘em all…

Where to start your day with the crackin’ of eggs?

#1- THE PIER & BACK PORCH

#1- MARIA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

#2 Channel Marker #3 Boathouse Restaurant 20

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

#2 A merican Table Restaurant tied with Creighton Crazy Egg Café tied with Syracuse Café

PLACE FOR AN UMBRELLA DRINK Because drinks just taste better with colorful umbrellas.

#1- CHANNEL MARKER #2 Noa Noa Wood Grill & Sushi Bar #3 Lakelife Bar & Grill tied with The Pier & Back Porch

PLACE TO SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM Summer at the lake is even better with ice cream…

#1- J OE’S ICE CREAM SUPREME #2 Igloo Ice Cream Shop #3 Sheila’s Sweet Treats & Diner

MOST SENSATIONAL SUSHI CUPPA’ JAVA To help us rise ‘n shine…

Some days we just need it—with a dash of soy, wasabi + ginger, of course.

PLACES FOR A 6-PACK Where readers get their fill o’ refills.

#1- Light Rail Café & Roaster

#1- Noa Noa Wood Grill & Sushi Bar

#1- Beef’s Booze Barn

#2 Brew City Roasting Company #3 The River Coffeehouse

#2 Kiyomi Japanese Cuisine #3 Cerulean Restaurant

#2 King’s Keg #3 Service Liquor Store

PLACE TO SIT ‘N SEE A SHOW Where readers catch their live entertainment:

#1- Wagon Wheel Center For The Arts #2 Blue Gate Theater #3 Honeywell Center

PLACE TO GET HOOKED

FIREWORKS FOR ‘OOOHS’ + ‘AAHHHS’

PLACE TO PITCH A TENT

Fireworks over the lakes boom + sparkle best here…

Because camping makes memories...

#1- Lake Wawasee

#1- Chain O’Lakes State Park

#2 Winona Lake #3 Lake Tippecanoe

#2 Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park #3 In your own backyard!

PLACE TO TAKE A HIKE

PLACE TO HIT THE LINKS

…with bait + tackle, of course.

Where our readers lace ‘em up + hit the trails.

Fore our readers who tee it up.

#1- Ye Olde Tackle Box

#1- Winona Lake Trails

#1- Maxwelton Golf Club

#2 1 Stop Bait & Tackle tied with Track & Channel Bait & Tackle

#2 Syracuse-Wawasee Trails #3 Wildwood Acres

#2 Stonehenge Golf Course #3 Tippecanoe Lake Country Club LAKElife Magazine August 2022

21 photos: shutterstock.com

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Issue Opening Story continued

PLACE TO CATCH A SUNSET Is there a sunset that isn’t splendid? We think not. But here’s the readers’ faves:

#1- Lake Wawasee #2 Winona Lake #3 Chapman Lake tied with Irish Lake

PLACE TO SHOP WITH THE BESTIES Readers favorite boutiques + shops are here:

‘AFTER-A-DAY-ON-THE-WATER’ ROUTINE How we end the day is as impactful as how we start…

#1- Grill, eat, relax, watch sunset + have a beverage in backyard with neighbors #2 Go out for dinner

FARMERS MARKET Freshest of veggies, fruits + all random cool stuff are found here:

SWEET CORN There’s more than corn in Indiana, but here’s where we find the best:

#1- Sweet Corn Charlie Produce #2 Neibert Produce & Berries #3 Hepler’s Farm Market

LAKE TRADITION When readers think of lake traditions, these are top of the list!

#1- The Village At Winona

#1- Syracuse Farmer’s Market

#1- Fireworks

#2 Absolutely Apparel & Gifts #3 Heart of the Lakes Antiques

#2 Downtown Warsaw #3 Hepler’s Farm Market

#2 Family boat rides/floating #3 Riding the Dixie on Webster Lake

F O T S E B PARADE …to show your lake spirit:

PLACE TO SAY AMEN Boat-in worship at its very best.

#1- Mermaid Festival Parade

#1- Wawasee Boat-in Church

#2 Wawasee Flotilla Parade #3 Syracuse Fourth of July Parade

#2 Beaver Dam Lake Services #3 Dewart Lake Boat Church

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Watch for next season’s ‘Best Of’ contest + cast your vote!

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.

Kay S. Young REALTOR®, Broker

Selling the lakes area since 1988

574-528-1400

TLJackson.com • 574-457-5417 11273 N. Syracuse-Webster Rd., Syracuse, IN 46567

kayyoung@toddrealty.com

photos: shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

23

Time to refresh your annuals... new plants and planters just in time for late summer/fall annuals and perennials

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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260-894-7141 | mooreboats.com LAKElife Magazine August 2022

25

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | At A Glance SYRACUSE

At A Glance

MILFORD

Kosciusko County

LEESBURG ETNA GREEN

NORTH WEBSTER

WARSAW

WINONA LAKE PIERCETON MENTONE CLAYPOOL SILVER LAKE

SIDNEY

It’s the month when we revel in the final lake days before returning to morning carpools, routines of work, homework, and school activities. We check off the bucket list of adventures not yet seized this season—and continue our lake rituals of sunrises, sunsets, and all the water play in between.

W

e embrace hot days, we celebrate all four-legged pals (yes, cats, too!), and we stretch with contentment after a final late morning of ‘sleeping in.’

August in Kosciusko County means celebrations on the water, over the water, along the lakeshore, and within our very communities.

Formed in 1836, Kosciusko County is home to rich history, peaceful tranquility of lakes, and water splashing alike. It’s where neighbors help neighbors—just because that’s what we do.

Wooded, shaded trails welcome hikers and runners alike, and it’s time for the camping trip that’s been discussed but not yet scheduled. Lakeside, impromptu cookouts are commonplace, and a

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

great glass of vino with the sunset ignites a full inner glow.

Ice cream parlors, fun shops for a Saturday morning, and coffee cafes busily a’brewing all await energetic lake lovin’ locals and visitors alike.

From excellent walking paths, trails for biking or hiking, or blasting through the waves, the best of summertime ‘dog days’ fun is just steps away within our county of 100 lakes.

It’s why we’re a family destination. It’s where families are strengthened, where friends play, and where anyone who can be present and unplugged can really celebrate this thing called life.

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

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

Public AccessSites

Trails

Upper Barbee Lakes/Kuhn Lake EMS B6A Lane, Leesburg

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

Public Beaches

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

Lower Barbee Lakes Grassy Creek Public Access East 500 North, Leesburg 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, Leesburg 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

Milford Waubee Park, Camp Mack Rd. North Webster Lake Webster Park, Dixie Dr. Syracuse Hoys Landing, Henry St. Lakeside Park, Long Dr. photos: shutterstock.com

Warsaw Center St. Park, Canal St. Pike Lake Park, Arthur St. Winona Lake Winona Lake Park, Park Ave.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

27

Dog Facts Becky Hart Fox Cell (574) 457-9045

Resident of Syracuse Lake 813 S. HUNTINGTON ST. • SYRACUSE, IN (574) 457-4417

• A dog’s nose print is unique, much like a person’s fingerprint.

• Forty-five percent of U.S. dogs sleep in their owner’s bed.

• Seventy percent of people sign their dog’s name on their holiday cards.

Source: akc.org

Your TOTAL Property Care Solution

“Established in 1999. We’ve been proudly serving the surrounding area for the past decade.”

TOTAL PROPERTY CARE • Landscape/Hardscape Design & Installation • Property Management • Tree Trimming & Removal • Snow Removal

“Experience the Difference” 28

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

574-457-6334

TotalPropertyCareinc.com

n u F o t o Ph cont'd

Cookie testers + dessert guards, Rory + Reid, stood their ground after the north shore parade march. Photo by Ron Baumgartner.

301 EMS T46 LN Leesburg, IN

(574) 834-2271

www.tippecanoeboatcompany.com staff@tippecanoeboatcompany.com

When family from ND + Indy visit it’s a great day on Yellow Creek Lake. Submitted by Nancy Ort.

SALES • SERVICE • STORAGE • RENTALS LAKElife Magazine August 2022

29

t s u g Au APPRECIATION

by Sue Pais

It’s the heat of summer—when homemade popsicles are extra sweet, fresh fruits + veggies are extra tasty, and high temps compel us toward water for a cool-down.

Y

es, it’s the ‘dog days of summer,’ as they say. And it’s a time to slow the pace. To savor remaining summer moments.

To notice more, and perhaps even appreciate more.

A slower pace reminds us that each day is a gift.

A gift to watch. To listen. To taste.

And even to feel wet dog shakes when Fido splashes out from the water. It all means we’re alive and life is energized around us.

30

August means running barefoot amidst bubbles lakeside. It means special umbrellas in our favorite drinks, and the most chill tunes a’top the water.

It’s taking notice of even our dogs’ behavior—and perhaps lessons learned therein. Most dogs wag more than they bark, they define unconditional love, and each day is comprised of only fun, love + all the good eats they can sneak.

Yes, life lessons from Fido, for sure.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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THE GOOD LIFE | Appreciation

Rudy soaks in a Wawasee sunset in a ‘77 Chris-Craft.

Submitted by reader Celeste.

Pups help us through tough times, kiss away our tears, and remain steadfast best friends; they choose us, always.

They’re our fellow-adventurers, masters of mischief, and chief cuddlebugs.

In short, they make life more rich.

But, indeed, they are just part of what makes August such a celebrated month of summer. We embrace quiet moments. Laughter. Splashes and thrills, and quiet sunset pontoon rides with James Taylor singing

amidst the waters. Each detail together culminates into a rich tapestry of moments and memories.

August is a time for letting go of stresses and embracing all that’s good in our lives.

Let’s intentionally count our blessings, be loyal without exception, and remember each day what’s truly important: Family. Love. Friendship.

Play. Relaxation. Goodness. And even all our four-legged friends.

It’s all, indeed, part of living The Good Life.

Milo, Kenni + Chip relaxing on Lake Wawasee.

Submitted by Debbie Collins.

No icebergs here. Boomer is king of the (Stump family) world! Submitted by Susan.

photo by Arielle Elise Photography LAKElife Magazine August 2022

31

DAY OF PLAY | Kosciusko County

Best of

Day ofPlayExperiences In Kosciusko County

by Mary Jane Bogle

Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean fun in the lake district has to end. For our final ‘Day of Play’ this season, we’re featuring 7 “best of” experiences (listed in no particular order) you’ll want to add to your LAKElife bucket list before fall.

1 Buy corn at Sweet Corn Charlie’s

If you haven’t stopped by one of these roadside stands for the best locally-grown bi-color sweet corn on the planet, you aren’t really living. All produce is handpicked in the morning and delivered to one of seven roadside markets that same day.

It doesn’t get any fresher than this! Grab some for your next lakeside cookout, and remember to buy extra to freeze. For a list of market locations, visit sweetcorncharlie.com.

(Note: This season, all locations are closed on Tuesdays and Sundays.)

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

elish one more razzle at R Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme

Rumor has it that this “blizzard-style” ice cream treat actually contains ‘too much candy’ mixed in with all that delicious frozen custard, but we’re pretty sure that’s not a thing. Or you can always try a new flavor from the many hand-dipped gourmet ice cream options. Just make sure you don’t miss out on one last calorie-busting, tastebud pleasin’ treat before they close for the season.

3

Ride the Dixie

Where else will you get the chance to cruise a lake in Indiana's oldest sternwheel excursion boat? And with tickets still at just $7 for a 75-minute cruise, what’s keeping you from booking your next Lake Webster tour?

2 Worship on the water

4

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, worship is offered on-water at four lakes in Kosciusko County: Dewart Lake, Lake Tippecanoe, Lake Wawasee, and Webster Lake.

Yes, Boat-In is a longstanding Sunday morning tradition!

Rest assured, you’ll always find renewal and rejuvenation—by boat or by shore. Make sure to take in this open-air worship service before it winds down for the year on Labor Day weekend.

5

Hike a trail

Think lakes are the only outdoor venue for fun in the region? Think again. The trail system in the lake district is growing every year. Whether you want to hike, bike, or take your furry friend for a fun excursion, the trails in the lake district offer plenty of scenic views and cater to a wide range of skill levels.

nag a deal at a S local antique shop

In this season’s Day of Play, we’ve featured plenty of antique shops from all over the lake district.

Bargain hunters will want to stop by many consignment shops as well. Whether you’re looking for a new garden feature, hoping to redecorate a room, or getting in some early Christmas shopping, the lake district is one of the best places in the state to unearth unique, one-of-a-kind items from yesteryear.

6

photos: shutterstock.com Michael Gordon / Shutterstock.com

7

Take a final sunset cruise

This is the lake district, after all, so be sure to make time for one of the true joys of boating: a quiet, sunset cruise. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable lake season before you pull the boat from the water. Until next year….

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

33

Sunstream Boat Lifts “Changing the way the World Boats”

Paddling Safety

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OSWEGO, IN • (574) 453-4771 SYRACUSE, IN • (574) 457-2837 www.rookstoolspiershop.com

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• Always wear a personal flotation device.

• Never paddle on flooded streams.

36,000 square feet of brand name new home furnishings in the heart of Warsaw

• When possible, travel with a buddy.

• Never attempt to paddle over a low-head dam.

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For more safety tips and resources, visit dnr.IN.gov.

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Serving our customers in Kosciusko County AND everywhere since 1991 34

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

shutterstock.com

EXPERTS

Discover Kosciusko County’s

OUTDOOR SPACES Calling All Outdoor Enthusiasts!

Continue your

adventure

Visit our website to download our space brochures and maps.

Timbercrest pairs independence and opportunities with the support you want, all in a maintenance-free home.

Located in North Manchester, just a short drive from your life on the lake.

111 Capital Dr, Warsaw, IN 46582 574-269-6090 VisitKosciuskoCounty.org @VisitKosciuskoCounty #VisitKCounty

Schedule a visit TODAY!

www.timbercrest.org (260) 982-2118

griffith’s wawasee marina Family Owned Since 1946

The only Repower Mercury dealer within 40 miles

wawaseemarina.com Open 7 days May through October

SALES • SERVICE • STORAGE • FUEL DOCK

(260) 856-2286 9171 E. Ross Drive, Syracuse LAKElife Magazine August 2022

35

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING | The Barbee Hotel

Al Capone

Baby Face Nelson

John Dillinger

s r e t s g n Ga

Of LAKElife Country

by Ray Balogh

photos Shutterstock.com

Back in the heyday of Depression-era gangsters, the Wawasee lakes area, particularly Barbee Hotel, served as a hideout haven for many of the notorious Chicagoland public enemies.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

S

ome say they are still there.

The rogue’s gallery included Al Capone, Baby Face Nelson, and John Dillinger — and their confederates and bodyguards.

Kosciusko County’s quiet lakeside communities were readily accessible from the Windy City but sufficiently tucked away to provide adequate reclusiveness for the criminals between “jobs.”

Capone was a rather frequent guest, staying at Barbee Hotel when a gang war broke out in Chicago.

He invariably stayed in Room 301 after clearing the hotel of the rest of its guests so he could be alone.

Nelson, born Lester M. Gillis, became a criminal partner of Dillinger, and was also noted to stay at Barbee Hotel. He helped Dillinger break out of the Crown Point jail, after which Dillinger and fellow escapee Herbert Youngblood, with other members of his gang, raided the police station in Warsaw in 1934.

They made off with two service pistols and three bulletproof vests, and made their escape in the Lake County Sheriff’s brand new V-8 Ford.

Ironically, driving the car from Warsaw to Illinois enabled the FBI to get involved in the manhunt for Dillinger. “At that time, bank robbery and murder were not federal crimes, but transporting a stolen vehicle across state lines was,” said Greg Steffe, co-director of the Old Jail Museum in downtown Warsaw.

Paranormal Activities

Its report on the hotel states, “Hotel staff have reported sightings, photos taken at the hotel to include orbs ... Even Rita Hayworth’s spirit is said to live here, appearing as a faint light outside the building.”

The Haunt Spot reports, “It is believed many of these gangsters returned to the hotel in death. Staff members have reported seeing an old man sitting in a booth after closing. When staff members talk to him there is no response.

Thinking they are dealing with an unruly customer they leave to get assistance. However, upon returning, the bar is empty and no one has seen anyone leave.”

“One legend states the hotel was a popular place that gangsters took their girlfriends to. One gangster, however, took the girlfriend of another gangster. She was then murdered in the hotel by the jealous thug. People have reported that they hear her wailing at night and they feel cold spots generating from the area," according to The Haunt Spot.

ph

in. om

k.c

oc

rst

tte

hu

/S

One reader posted on indianahauntedhouses. com on April 25, 2021, “Being a new resident of Indiana we decided to look for historical places to dine. We were at a table and I decided to film the inside while we waited for our order.

“The next day I reviewed the footage.

There was something bigger than an orb that literally danced around our table.

rob

The Barbee Hotel is also somewhat famous for its reputed paranormal activities, which many associate with the gangsters’ presence in those early days. The

website indianahauntedhouses.com includes Barbee Hotel & Restaurant in its list of allegedly haunted structures around the state.

It was so exciting to see an actual ghost. I still have the footage and show it often to people wanting a unique dining experience.”

The hotel and restaurant, unintimidated by the eerie reports, still celebrates its connection with the gangsters of the 1920s by drenching its decor with Al Capone newspaper articles and memorabilia and hosting Roaring ‘20s New Year’s Eve parties where attendees dress as gangsters or flapper girls.

Barbee Hotel

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

37

Uniquely Crafted To Fit Your Lifestyle

u Custom Built Homes u Additions u Interior Renovations u Custom Kitchens u Baths u Garages

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Even your backyard has internet access EXTEND YOUR WIFI CONNECTION With Kosciusko Connect’s fast fiber internet, you can add on our home WiFi extenders to boost your signal for a strong connection in every corner of your home. Scan the QR code or visit our website to check availability.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

kosciuskoconnect.com

n u F o t o h P

Making Visions Reality

cont'd

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Happy Fourth from Court, Kam, and Jax-man.

We interrupt this loving owner-pup moment to take a photo. Submitted by Kelly (and Oliver).

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

39

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Nature + Critters

The Hoosier Banana

by Jason Kissel, executive director, ACRES Land Trust

Right now in the forests of LAKElife Country, there is a tropical-tasting fruit beginning to ripen. Its taste is often described as a mixture of banana, mango, papaya, and pineapple—all these tropical flavors blended together in one fruit. It’s a delicacy that far too few people have been exposed to, although the opossums and raccoons sure don’t mind. It’s more for them! The pawpaw tree creates this wonderful fruit that is known by many names: Hoosier banana, poor man’s banana, custard banana, or simply pawpaw.

DESCRIPTION: Pawpaws are small native trees, growing only 15 to 20 feet tall. They have a tropical appearance due to their dark green, oblong leaves that are about a foot in length. The leaves emit a strong odor when crushed. Pawpaws produce root suckers, often creating numerous trees in close proximity, called a ‘pawpaw patch.’ The best way to identify pawpaws is to hike through a forest right now and look for the fruit—nothing else resembles a Hoosier banana.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

FRUIT: The ‘bananas’ of pawpaws tend to grow in clusters and ripen in August through September. The plump fruit is green and grows 3 to 6 inches long, and normally around 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

The fruit contains two rows of large, black, lima bean-shaped seeds. The best way to tell if the bananas are ripe is to squeeze them. If they give slightly, they are ripe.

Also, the fruit will often begin developing brown spots as they ripen. The bananas are only prime for two or three days, as they ferment quickly. You can extend their edible life by putting them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy, simply peel the skin and eat the flesh of the fruit, discarding the seeds. Their tropical taste and custard texture will pleasantly surprise you.

FUN FACTS:

• Hoosier bananas are the lar fruits native to America, gest edible weighing up to one pound.

• Pawpaw leaves provid e the exclusive diet of the zebra swallowtai l butterfly larvae.

• Meriwether Lewis wr ote: “September 15, 1806—We landed one time men gather Pawpaws of only to let the which this country abounds, and the men are very fond of.”

• Pawpaw’s nutritional value apples, peaches, and gra exceeds that of pes in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and calories.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

41

IN THE COUNTY | Water Health

Pollinators

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ON YOUR PROPERTY

by Jennifer Romano, communications coordinator, The Watershed Foundation

When it comes to the beauty of a garden, we are often distracted by abundant plants and flowers that steal the show. But truly, it's the pollinators that are the real stars!

P

ollinators have a critical role in the garden as they continue the plant's reproductive life cycle.

Pollinators can be bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and many other insects or animals. We often think of bees or butterflies when we think of pollinators, but did you know that birds have an important role too? More than 2,000 species of birds are involved in pollination, especially hummingbirds.

Unless you look very closely, you might not see what the pollinators are doing as they zip and buzz from petal to petal. As the pollinator moves along, feeding on plants and flowers, bits of pollen attach to their bodies and drop as they move—often in other plants who are eagerly awaiting its arrival to continue their lifecycle. The pollen is used to produce fruit or seeds.

What can you do to make the pollinator’s job a little easier? Utilize native plant

species in your garden! Native species of plants have occurred naturally in an area over hundreds or thousands of years and offer a food source that the pollinator is accustomed to finding and relies upon.

“A lot of people might wonder what pollinators and native plant species have to do with water quality in our lakes, rivers, and streams,” said Lyn Crighton, executive director of The Watershed Foundation.

“It’s simple. Native plants soak up water, hold soil in place, and filter pollutants.

Pollinators help native plants thrive.”

According to Clear Choices Clean Water, a project co-founded by The Watershed Foundation, approximately 70 percent of pollution in our waterways comes from stormwater runoff. Native plants slow that runoff to a crawl or stop it altogether.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

“Native plants are important to the local ecosystem,” Crighton added. "They’re part of the balance of nature, providing habitat for pollinators and helping keep our water healthy. It’s a win-win situation."

A great example of a pollinator working well with a native species is the Purple Coneflower (echinachea) and Monarch butterflies. Purple Coneflowers rely on butterflies for pollination, and the butterflies really enjoy the Purple Coneflowers’ nectar. Purple Coneflower is beautiful, inexpensive, and easily grown.

You'll enjoy the steady, many butterflies visiting all summer long—definitely another win-win!

Finding native species to plant in your garden or around your lawn is easy if you know what to look for. Some good resources for finding native species include your local Purdue Extension office, your Soil & Water Conservation District, or visit Indiana.ClearChoicesCleanWater. org where there’s a downloadable list of nurseries and garden centers that offer native plant species. Call or visit these locations and find friendly, helpful people who can get you going in the right direction.

Another thing you can do to protect pollinators is to be careful with which pesticides are used on your lawn and garden. Many commonly used pesticides have been found to have negative consequences for pollinators. To help our pollinators, consider reducing or eliminating your use of these chemicals.

If you must use them, look for ones with a Bee Advisory Label.

For more information about The Watershed Foundation, visit watershedfoundation.org.

WARSAW FAMILY

DENTISTRY

Welcomes

Dr. Taylor N. Hatfield, DDS

FURNITURE: 269-4070

1603 N. Detroit St., Warsaw, IN

574.269.7377

Brouwer’s 3333 East Center St.

Carpet and Furniture

CARPET: 267-8054

Warsaw

Brouwer’sBrouwer’s Brouwer’s Brouwer’s

FURNITURE: FURNITURE:269-4070 WarsawFamilyDentistry.com 269-4070

FURNITURE: CARPET: and and Carpet FURNITURE: 269-4070 Carpet CARPET: CARPET: 267-8054 Furniture and Carpet Carpet and Furniture 269-4070 Furniture 267-8054 267-8054 Furniture

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Warsaw

Wawasee Lake

2022

Summer Fun!

800-727-0609 steffenrealty.com LAKElife Magazine August 2022

43

GETTIN’ BUSY | Events

Kosciusko County

Calendar of Events

by Ray Balogh

Do YOU have an upcoming event? Great!

We’re happy to share the news.

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 of events listed. As schedules sometimes change, please confirm details prior to attending.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

shutterst

SATURDAY, AUG. 13 SIDEWALK SALE Downtown Village at Winona, Winona Lake, all day. Browse for sales by local businesses.

574.268.9888, villageatwinona.com

tock.com

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SATURDAY, AUG. 27 HEIRLOOM TOMATO FESTIVAL Brower Park, Pierceton, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Agricultural show, 5K run/walk, crafted goods, farmers market, food vendors. 574.797.3033, piercetonchamber.com, facebook.com/piercetonchamber

SATURDAY, AUG. 27 CANAL DAYS Downtown Village at Winona, Winona Lake, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Craft and art booths, kids activities, cardboard boat regatta. Free admission.

574.268.9888, villageatwinona.com

(Please call ahead to confirm in-person activities)

WARSAW COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

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• Online Bedtime Story, 7 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, on the library’s Facebook page. Special guests and librarians share picture books with children.

• Story Emporium Bookstore, 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, 19, 26; 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, 20; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, Stafford Book Sale Room. Open to all ages.

• Medicare 101, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, Meeting Room AB. For seniors and adults.

• Teen Dungeons & Dragons, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 13, Meeting Room B. For grades 6-12 or ages 13-17.

• Paint with Carl, 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 15, Meeting Room AB. For ages 15 and older. $25 covers instruction, acrylic paint, supplies to complete an 11x14 canvas. Register in advance, payment due at registration.

• Kids Minecraft, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16, Meeting Room C. Play Minecraft Education Edition on library device or bring your own. Registration required to guarantee spot. Children’s program.

• LEGO Club, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 20, Meeting Room C. For children and families, LEGOs supplied.

• Purdue Extension Garden Pests, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, Meeting Room C. Extension specialist will present information about insects and diseases and how to reduce their damage. Open to all ages.

For updates or to check virtual events, call 574.267.6011 or visit warsawlibrary.org or facebook.com/warsawpubliclibrary.

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

Bet you can guess her name.

NORTH WEBSTER COMMUNITY CENTER • Yoga classes, 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday. $5/class, first class free.

• Cardio drumming, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Saturday. $5/class or $40/punch card.

• Painting with J.H. Watkins, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 13; 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, and Monday, Aug. 22. $15 covers supplies for acrylic take-home painting. Preregistration required.

• Free outdoor movie, dusk Friday, Aug. 26. Free admission, free popcorn and water, food trucks available.

For updates or to check virtual events, 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 Comedy of Errors: Shakespeare’s Timeless Farce,” various times Thursday, July 28, through Saturday, Aug. 6. $40/adults, $35/ seniors (60 and older), $20 students (13 through college), $15 children (12 and under).

• “Smokey Joe’s Cafe: The Songs of Lieber and Stoller,” various times Thursday, Aug. 11, through Saturday, Aug. 20. $40/adults, $35/ seniors (60 and older), $20 students (13 through college), $15 children (12 and under).

Wagon Wheel Community Theatre, 2515 E. Center St., Warsaw.

574.267.2618, wagonwheelcenter.org

WAWASEE AREA CONSERVANCY FOUNDATION (W.A.C.F.) • Agricultural tour, 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, Anderson Farms, 11223 W. 450N, Cromwell. Observe how farming practices and clean water can be partners. Register at pam@wacf.com. Information about the parking location will be given to those registered.

• Ecology tour, 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, depart from The Frog Tavern, 1116 S. Harkless Drive, Syracuse. Brunch will be served and Dr. Nate Bosch will discuss the new water testing buoy. Get your questions about water quality answered. $20/person. For reservations, email info@wacf.com or call 574.457.4549.

Submitted by Dot.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

45

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47

GETTIN’ BUSY | Bulletin Bits + Fish Bites

BulletinBits + Fish Bites This space is for you! Consider it a printed bulletin board to post your announcements + fish pics.

Just don’t stick us with a pushpin.

Adopt An Otter + Have An Adventure

Tippy River Adventures is a new canoe and kayak livery located on the Tippec anoe River! And yep, you can even adopt an ott er. Rent canoes + kayaks (or bring your own) for a 2.5 -hour scenic journey along Tippy River. Rentals include a life jacket, paddles, and transportation to and from boat sites.

See tippyriveradventures.co m for more information.

You Can Still Decal Like A Pal

If you’re interested in contributing toward the new ADA-compliant kayak launch on Winona Lake, consider purchasing this decal for $10. Here’s where the decals may be purchased: • Winona Lake Limitless Park office, Winona Lake • Sock’s Marina Webster, North Webster • Sock’s Marina Barbee, Warsaw • Pedals & Paddles, North Webster • Heart of the Lakes Antique Mall, North Webster • From any Warsaw Kiwanis member

Family Fun Film Festival August 6, 10-11 a.m.

Fisherman Bruce Coppes caught this 22-inch bass from Chapma n Lake. Wowsa!

Submitted by Cindy Copp es.

48

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Courtesy of Chautauqua-Wawasee, it’s a family fun phone video festival to relive this lake season’s most amazing moments caught on video. In its second year, this festival takes place at Pickwick Theatre in Syracuse.

Don’t miss it! And next year? Submit your clips! For more info, visit chqw.org.

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AND your big fisherpal pics. AND your chillin’ at the lake (on the boat, dock, around the campfire) pics, too. Join the fun. This is YOUR magazine. Send to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

49

GETTIN’ BUSY | Local Finds

TheHeat of

The sultry heat of summer is here, and there’s no better time to visit area shops to help celebrate the sweet spot of summer, than Right. Now. Cool off in an area establishment, grab a gift for your pet pal, and embrace each steamy-hot day August delivers. And yes, delivered directly to our lake-and-family-loving county of Kosciusko. Stay cool, LAKElife friends.

509 S. Huntington St. Syracuse 574.457.8887 absolutelyapparel.com

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

1201 S. Huntington St. Syracuse 574.457.8763

We All Scream for ice cream, especially in August.

You want one, don’cha? (We do.)

Absolutely Apparel & Gifts

Fun Song But this time, it’s a towel—and it’s to celebrate yer’ fine fishing of the season.

Consider it a gift for your fishergal or fisherguy, or just enjoy as some fun home décor.

Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme

There's No Smell Like wet dog smell. Let’s face it. As much as we love our fourlegged flufferstinks, their aromas are far from heavenly.

So check out this and other scented candles to help soothe smells in pupper’s proximity.

Snap A Shot of your lake moments, send ‘em to us to print in ‘23, then display it in your abode in a cute frame like this.

The Revolving Closet 702 N. Huntington St. Syracuse 574.457.4280 therevolvingcloset.com

Keepin’ Cars Fresh Toss the leftover fast food wrappers and wipe Fido’s pawprints from the seat, then hang one of these sweet-smelling suckers for a fresh air sweetness in your car—you might actually want to keep the windows rolled up.

The Bangles are more than just a totally tubular, pop ‘80s band. Check out these bangles + more great accessories. Tons of selection at The Revolving Closet. Load up and really walk like an Egyptian.

There’s A Theme going on here. Yes, heat + humidity + other things we’d rather not mention make us seek out sweeter scents. So, give this one a try. Its scent when burning will have you refreshed + jolting for a cuppa’ java.

Latte Lounge Warsaw 574.268.1616 Lattelounge.net

Morning Wood Bracelets Syracuse 574.529.3943 Morningwoodbracelets.com

Wooden You Love One? With an array of designs and themes, these stylish hand-crafted bracelets are made by local artist Jace Morgan. They’re super cool, super unique, and super local. Products available at area gift shops or online at morningwoodbracelets.com.

My, You Have A Stylish Mug

So, keep smiling. Especially since you can be festive while carrying your liquid essence throughout your lake days. And while you’re there, grab a frappe or ‘ccino.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

51

GETTIN’ BUSY | Gratitude List

1100 S. Huntington St. Syracuse

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Listed below are names submitted by LAKElife readers. See your name on the list?

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52

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Ann + Wes Bell Martha Byer Lyn Crighton Autumn Gregory Jerry R. Johnson Suzanne Lattimer Joe Leach Lori Mark Karilyn Metcalf Rob Parker Lynn Reecer Renea Salyer Christy Smith Noah + Beau Wildman Who do YOU want to THANK? No need to even tell us why. Just a name. Easy-peasy.

Send to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

And, hey, thank you.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

53

PEEPS | those who

Create

This season, LAKElife Magazine is celebrating area ARTISTS— those who share their creative gifts to help celebrate the beauty that is lake life.

Meet:

Jacob Kiefor artist + entrepreneur

by Mary Jane Bogle | photos submitted

Founder and CEO of This Is Jacob, Jacob Kiefor—whose family is of Little Pike Lake— creates hand-painted, personalized doormats and design apparel with a positive and inclusive message. His custom artwork—and the company he founded and runs himself—is itself a form of advocacy, showcasing his talent and entrepreneurial abilities.

Yes, Jacob is proof that Down syndrome can lift us all, well, Up.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

J

acob Kiefer is on a mission—to spread a message of inclusivity and positivity, one personalized, handpainted doormat or screen-printed shirt at a time.

This Is Jacob products can be found in every state and several other countries— and have been featured on the Kelly Clarkson Show, Fox News, and multiple print media outlets.

Unable to find a job in August of 2019, Jacob opted for an entrepreneurial track instead and began creating hand-painted, personalized door mats. Later, he added shirts to his merch when the Pandemic hit (when he had trouble acquiring doormats).

While he takes all orders on his website, customers can view a larger selection of designs on his Facebook and Instagram pages. He can customize most designs to individual specifications. In fact, custom orders make up 50 percent of his orders.

J

acob designs the shirts himself and then purchases 100 screen prints. He presses each shirt himself, too.

Once those designs sell out, he retires them, except for the original “Be Kind” design with the three arrows.

Jacob with his mom, Melanie

“My main goal is to spread awareness about Down syndrome and offer a message of inclusion,” said Jacob.

Besides being a business owner, Jacob regularly shares the ups and downs of life with a disability on his social media.

“We encourage questions and try to give a glimpse into his life,” said Melanie Kiefor Bennitt, Jacob’s mom. “Jacob is a fierce advocate for the Down syndrome community and those with disabilities.” In fact, most of Jacob’s revenue is donated back to non-profits that serve those with disabilities. Neither Jacob nor Melanie take a paycheck.

“My goal is not to make money but to spread awareness,” said Jacob, “so if you follow my social media that would help make my mission a success. If you did want to place an order, that would be great, too. I attend art festivals, markets, and conventions with my merchandise, in addition to taking orders on my website.”

If you’d like to join Jacob in spreading positivity and inclusivity, rest assured that Jacob ships anywhere in the US. Just visit thisisjacobsrugs. com to place your order. And to see more designs, check out facebook.com/thisisjacobsrugs or on Instagram @This_is_jacobs_rugs.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

55

PEEPS | those who

Serve

LAKElife Magazine celebrates those who give of themselves to better our community—those who, day by day, make the world a better place.

Nominated by our readership,

Meet:

Joe Tynan

fundraiser + resident of Lake Tippecanoe

by Haiden Hibbert

Joe Tynan grew up on Lake Tippecanoe and has spent a great deal of his adult life working to preserve the area for generations to come. As a former board member of The Watershed Foundation, Joe’s fundraising efforts + legacy will live on, just like the fond memories he has of his childhood on the lake.

What was your experience with The Watershed Foundation as Principal Fundraiser?

The Watershed Foundation had depended for years strictly on funding they could get from IDEM and grants. This meant they couldn’t consistently go out and work with farmers (and tell them they could do a project) because they weren't sure they could get the money. So I realized we needed to raise a lot more money locally from the residents. At the time, Lyn [Crighton] and I sat down and put a plan together.

Over a three-year period, we learned how to deliver our message to our initial supporters. We succeeded in finding 20 investors who supported TWF with a $25,000 pledge, over 5 years. This gave us a huge base of reliable income so we could go out and tell farmers: “We have the money to get that project done!”

Lyn has become a great leader and the board has gotten extremely strong. I’m off the board now, but I’m still active and help with one-on-one donation requests.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

What about getting the sewer system in place for Lake Tippecanoe?

You talk about a challenge! Study after study said ‘you should move immediately and put sewers in immediately; they’re the best thing you can do to protect the lake.’

But year after year, and study after study got tabled and thrown away, so a small group of board members of TWF, LTPO (Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners), and a few others decided we would form a conservancy district and put our own sewers in. It’s what I called my last hurrah as a part of The Watershed Foundation.

After a lot of challenges and back-andforth with the county, the county decided to form a regional conservancy district, and now they’re going to have sewers sometime in the next two years. I’m proud of the many people who helped us with this. We got 600 signatures and 900-some properties represented.

Joe Tynan

What inspires you to give back to your community?

My mom and dad. I remember when I was a very young boy earning money doing odd jobs, and Dad taught me to give back to church and help others. You give back, you get more. It’s what we’re meant to do. Many of the people on this lake are blessed with what we have. Give it away, give it back.

What does lake life mean to you?

[I want to] protect this lake, so the kids who come to play on it now have as much fun as I had on it, or more. And then their kids have the chance to do it, so this lake is around for 50, 100, 1,000 or 5,000 more years.

Mankind can do crazy things to lakes and ruin them, so we’re just trying to make sure we don't make mistakes.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

57

PEEPS | those for a

Cause

Neighbor helping neighbor = communities at their best. LAKElife Magazine is highlighting area efforts focused on making life a lil’ better for those who call Kosciusko County home.

Introducing:

Quaker Haven Camp

by Courtney Rawlinson | photos by Morgan Miller

Quaker Haven Camp is a Christian-based retreat created with the purpose to develop a warm welcome to any individual looking to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ. Quaker Haven is not your average summer camp as this natural retreat experience is open to all, year-round, with the opportunity that is hard to find these days—escaping the world of computer and phone screens + reconnecting yourself with God in the beauty of Indiana nature.

Tri Kappa Trivia night

When did Quaker Haven originate?

Quaker Haven was established in 1925, and its first summer camp was attended by just 63 people.

Since then, Quaker Haven has grown tremendously and now is visited by 500-600 youth campers each summer, as well as hundreds of others who come with their families or church groups.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Do you have a family of return attendees?

Once people get a taste of Quaker Haven, they seem to come back year after year! Many families and churches have long traditions of retreating to the camp. Quaker Haven is a favorite for churches of many denominations.

Who typically attends your camp and what makes you unique?

We serve primarily Quaker meetings affiliated with us, but the local Amish and Mennonite communities also love camping here. What sets Quaker Haven apart from other camps is our welcoming, family-friendly culture.

Our policies are based on Christian principles which provide a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all people.

Also, our faithful guests, campers, and summer staff have created a warm environment where families can enjoy time together, and where so many kids can have fun and make friends.

What is Quaker Haven’s message?

We want people to know the immense love of Jesus Christ, to meet Him wherever you are (hopefully Quaker Haven!), and to respond to Him faithfully. At the very least, we want people to know that at Quaker Haven, you are welcome to unplug from the outside world and make meaningful connections with nature and people.

Is there anything else you want to share with the readers?

We have partnered with the Lakeland Youth Center to organize a climbing club. We have an indoor climbing wall as well as a 50-foot outdoor climbing wall with a 600-foot zipline attached. We also have classes during the day for homeschool groups as well as after-school classes. Please visit our website: quakerhaven.com or contact our program director, Kevin Lipsey, via email at kevin@quakerhaven.com.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

59

EATS | Order Up!

Comfort Food

Best of story + photos by Loren Shaum

The LAKElife area has an abundance of restaurants and bars that meet the needs of those seeking ‘comfort food.’ In Syracuse alone, there are no less than 21 restaurants between downtown and the Middle School— and that doesn’t include chains.

And of these, most offer some sort of comfort items on their menus.

hashbrown potatoes with poached eggs, Twentieth-Century Restaurant

Breakfast

I

A popular spot in Syracuse is the Coffee Depot. They just moved from the garage by the car wash to the former juice location adjacent to Kiyomi’s. Their brussels sprout skillet with poached eggs and diced potatoes is killer (yes, delicious).

Warsaw has more than 20 places that provide some semblance of comfort items.

Syracuse Café is Old School grub, and the servings are large and plentiful. Their American fries with onions are comparable to those from the Twentieth-Century Restaurant at the corner of U.S. 6 and S.R. 15.

n North Webster, there are nine more. Further south, the recently opened Lakelife Bar & Grill on the Barbee Channel has a menu full of comfort items. And if you prefer great pizza, Danny’s Sport Bar is just down the road.

Pierceton had a unique spot at the Old Train Depot (which closed), but there will be a new restaurant opening soon. The Tap Room Brewhouse will be a pleasant addition to the Pierceton scene. And, of course, in Pierceton there’s always The Post! brussel sprout skillet, Coffee Depot

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Mug Shots Coffeehouse and Eatery is also a popular location, and it’s one of the few locations open on Sunday. They specialize in omelettes and pancakes, but their “Syracuse Sammy” is an excellent breakfast

chicken salad croissant, The River Coffee House

Florentine stack, Creighton's Crazy Eggs

tomato-basil soup with naan grilled cheese, Rua

bluegill basket, Huntington Street Bar & Grill

sandwich. They also have a liquor license, so spike your coffee, if so inclined.

In Etna Green, there’s the Etna Green Café that gets raves about their home cookin’.

In North Webster, Sheila’s Sweet Treats & Diner serves excellent ice cream but is also a popular breakfast spot for locals.

Lunch

In Warsaw, three places stand-out.

The Cozy Corner Restaurant, east of downtown, opens at 5 a.m. and is a popular neighborhood joint. West of town is the American Table Restaurant, and heading further west on old U.S. 30 is Creighton’s Crazy Eggs Café & Coffee Bar. They serve interesting variations of classic breakfast dishes. With items like Scotch eggs, which you can get regular or deviled, crazy egg waffich (a waffle sandwich), crazy egg hash, Belgium waffles and crustless quiche, you have a lot of choices. Regardless, my go-to is the Florentine spinach with poached eggs; in my opinion, there’s nothing better!

Farther away, you can’t beat Teel’s Family Restaurant in Mentone. The old-time diner seating and bar stools take you back to another time.

Bar & Grill burgers, Louie's

All places mentioned above also serve lunch, but if you want something special, try the Oak & Alley in Warsaw. Their special mix burgers and onion rings are stellar (and the craft beer choices are excellent, too!).

In downtown Warsaw, there are a couple worthy joints where you can partake in multiple comfort food choices. Rex’s Rendezvous has been serving since 1933.

Across from the County building is the Downtown Eatery & Spirits. Both will satisfy any craving!

In the Village at Winona, Kelainey’s Sweet Dreams and the Light Rail Café & Roaster both offer great sandwiches. Light Rail also provides roasted coffee beans for several local restaurants.

, whitefish basket

Chubbie's Pub &

Grub

grilled chicken chef salad, Kelainey's Sweet Dreams

In Syracuse, the comfort food front-runner seems to be Pat’s Chicago Dogs. Now under new ownership, their Polish sausage with kraut is ‘out-of-bounds!’

If you’re hankering for bluegill, the Huntington Street Bar & Grill basket is top-shelf. Louie’s Bar & Grill is good, too, and you can order both bluegill and frog legs by the piece. Louie’s is also adding a roof over their expanded patio.

Peterson’s Fish and Chubbie’s Pub & Grub, both in the Syracuse Village, continue to be popular stops.

If passing through Leesburg, Stacy’s Restaurant and Family Dining offers a good selection of comfort items, and their soups are excellent.

With all these choices, LAKElife folks are never far from comfort food.

m+ smoking goose ha

Swiss sandwich,

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Light Rail Cafe

61

EATS | Refresher

a i r g n a S e n g a p m a h C g n i l k Spar by sallysbakingaddiction.com

This crowd-pleasing fruity white sangria is perfect for hot August lake days.

Cheers!

Ingredients: • 1 orange, thinly sliced • ½ lemon, thinly sliced • 1 cup blueberries • 1 cup raspberries • 10 large strawberries, sliced • 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed • 1 750-ml bottle sweet white wine (Riesling or similar) • 1 750-ml bottle champagne Directions: 1. Place all fruit and orange juice in a large pitcher or bowl, add wine and allow to sit in the refrigerator for 3-24 hours. Right before serving, add champagne.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

shutterstock.com

2. Taste; if you’d like it sweeter, add ¼ cup white sugar, honey, or agave.

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63

EATS | Bon Appetit

Bon Appetit

Summer Corn + Salmon Salad Nothing says summer quite like corn fresh off the cob!

This salad incorporates loads of healthy, fresh veggies as well as a super tasty chili-rubbed salmon hot off the grill.

recipe + photo by Christy Smith, MNT, nutrition counselor

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS For the salmon: 2 pounds wild-caught salmon fillet 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper For the salad: 4 ears corn + 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper (to taste) 3 cups mixed greens 1 avocado, sliced 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 3 green onions, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped For the cilantro-lime dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander salt and pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

*adapted from Eatyourselfskinny.com CHRISTY SMITH is a Master Nutrition Therapist and Certified LEAP Therapist, specializing in reducing pain and inflammation, anti-aging, PCOS/IBS/diabetes management, weight loss and increasing quality of life through personalized anti-inflammatory diets and customized nutrition. She has been featured in Shape magazine, conducted recipe creation for Omega Juicers, and has been a special guest on multiple podcasts.

LAKElife Magazine subscribers: If you’re interested in a custom nutrition consult, email Christy at findbetterhealth@christysmithnutrition.com.

• MENTION THIS ARTICLE AND GET $50 OFF YOUR FIRST SESSION! •

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Directions: 1. Pre-heat grill to medium-high heat (about 375 to 400 degrees).

2. Place a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a baking sheet and fold up all the edges. Brush a little oil on the foil or spray with non-stick cooking spray so the salmon doesn’t stick. Place the salmon in the center of the foil and brush the top with the olive oil and lime juice.

Sprinkle the salmon with the seasoning mix. Make sure the entire fish is coated.

Using another sheet of aluminum foil, cover the salmon, sealing all edges.

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3. On a separate plate, lightly brush the corn with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Transfer the foil-wrapped salmon to the grill over indirect heat, not directly over the flames, and cook for about 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know that the salmon is done when it’s flaky and opaque through the center.

5. While the salmon is on the grill you can also grill your corn. Place corn over direct heat, cooking about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until kernels start to brown. Once the corn is done, carefully cut kernels from the cob using a sharp knife.

6. To make the salad, toss together the arugula, tomatoes, grilled corn, avocado, green onions, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl.

7 To make the dressing, simply whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey, ground coriander, salt/pepper and cilantro, and set aside.

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8. Remove salmon from the grill and remove the top layer of foil. You’ll see a lot of juices accumulated on the sides, so I like to brush those juices over top of the salmon before serving.

9. Slice up the salmon and add to the salad.

Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing. Serve and enjoy!

Fun Facts: Salmon is one of the hea lthiest food choices you can make! It is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to red uce inflammation and support heart and brain health. High in selenium, B vitamins, and vitamin D, salmon is also a gre at low-calorie source of pro tein.

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65

Welcome to the lakes!

Meet Pierre, submitted by

STILL BUILDING LEGENDS ...ONE AT A TIME.

reader Mike Grabovez

Dog Facts 260-894-7141 | mooreboats.com

CHOOSE YOUR STYLE, CHOOSE YOUR WOOD, CHOOSE YOUR COLOR,

Ree dy

AND LET OUR MASTER CRAFTSMAN BUILD THE FURNIITURE OF

Your Dreams!

• Dogs’ noses can sense heat/ thermal radiation, which explains why blind or deaf dogs can still hunt.

• Only one breed that was among the five most popular breeds in 1934— the Beagle — still remains in the top five today.

• Yawning is contagious—even for dogs. Research shows that the sound of a human yawn can trigger one from your dog.

And it’s four times as likely to happen when it’s the yawn of a person he knows.

• Dogs curl up in a ball when sleeping to protect their organs—a hold over from their days in the wild, when they were vulnerable to predator attacks.

Beautifully

Handcrafted,

Solid Wood Furniture 6146 W. 1350 N. • Nappanee, IN 574-773-4826 1 mile South and 2 miles East of Nappanee on 1350

• Human blood pressure goes down when petting a dog. And so does the dog’s.

Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. • Sat. 9-4 Closed Sundays

SB-594818-1

www.weaverfurniturebarn.com

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Source: akc.org

r ent vom a m o S e th

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ver i l e d e w

freakishly flavorful food delivered for groups of 25+ PORT-A-PIT® BBQ CHICKEN | PIT-TATOES® | PULLED PORK | HOMESTYLE SIDES | AND MORE!

View the menu:

NELSONSBBQ.COM Call to order:

574-862-2184 Please place orders at least 24-48 hours in advance

SINCE 1967

MILFORD

EATS | Food Finder

Harry’s Tap & Grill

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.

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

Ruhe 152

BREMEN

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

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

GOSHEN The Oasis

Consider it your friendly local restaurant + bar with de-lish food (filet mignon, hand-held steak patties, fried perch, or bone-in ribeye, anyone?), excellent cocktails, and a fun atmosphere— including LOTS of great live music.

702 W. Lincoln Ave. 574.971.8628 theo.bar

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

It’s been on your go-to list, so why not pay ‘em a visit? A fun and inviting restaurant, brewery, and distillery featuring fun cocktails and an eclectic made-from-scratch menu.

152 W. Market St. 574.832.7843 ruhe152.com

The Barns Steakhouse 1600 W. Market St. 574.773.4188 thebarnsatnappanee.com

Thai House Restaurant

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

820 E. Winona Ave. 574.267.5988

The Pretty Cakery

114 N. Buffalo St. 574.267.2622

The Buzz on Buffalo

112 S. Main St. 574.221.2207 facebook: theprettycakery

Three Crowns Coffee 941 N. Detroit St. 574.216.1655

NORTH WEBSTER

Time Out Inn

Barbee Hotel & Restaurant

Fine Dining Want fine dining in a building with rich history (dating back to 1897, housing celebs + gangsters alike)?

Of course you do. With arguably the best prime rib in the county, great steaks, seafood, barbecue ribs, and Italian dishes, you're sure to leave as satisfied as Capone with a fine cigar. facebook.com/barbee-hotel

Danny’s Sports Bar & Pizza

Sports Bar & Pizza Located on the top level of the Barbee Hotel & Restaurant, it's ideal for casual times, cold beer, great bar food, pizza, and fun.

If 'zza is your jam, theirs was topranked in the county! facebook.com/sportsbarpizza 3620 N. Barbee Rd. 574.834.1111

1701 W. Lake St. 574.269.5700

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

405 S. Dixie Dr. 574.834.2565

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

Bourbon Street Pizza

Down Under

Pizza King of North Webster

643 N. Main St. 574.834.4444

801 N. Huntington St. 574.457.3920

PIERCETON

Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme Shop

Speedy Cafe

2125 IN-13 574.594.2941 speedycafe.com

SILVER LAKE Igloo Ice Cream Shop

Ice Cream Shop It’s not your everyday ice cream shop. Stop by for iced coffees, hot lattes, specialty sundaes, shakes, malts, soft serve and hand dip cones. Or, order online + pick up. With hand dip flavors that’re uniquely delicious—from bourbonspiked espresso, sweet cake batter ice cream with salted caramel, rhubarb crumble, or their awardwinning “This Just Got Serious” salted caramel ice cream with sea salt fudge, they put the mmm in yummm.

108 W. Main St. 260.352.0999

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

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

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

Warrior’s Nutrition 706 S. Huntington St. 574.529.5383

WARSAW

Wabash Donut Shoppe 658 S. Buffalo St. 574.267.4311

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

Oak and Alley

2308 E. Center St. 574.387.6114

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

Taco Jalisco

2124 E. Winona Dr. 574.267.1501

Tacos Jalisco

1215 N. Detroit St. 574.377.1039

Taqueria El Comal 828 E. Winona Ave. 574.267.1501

Texas Roadhouse 700 W. 300 N. 574.306.0622

photos: shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

69

WATER + FAMILY FUN | Lake Lifestyles

“We didn’t realize we were making memories… we just knew we were having fun.”

— A. A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh

photo at Lake Wawasee, by Arielle Elise Photography

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

71

WATER + FAMILY FUN | Making Waves

One Place You’ll Want A Cover-Up Protecting Your Boat

by Lauren Caggiano

Imagine spending a lazy day on the lake in your boat. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Enjoying a boat means taking care of it, and that includes investing in the proper cover.

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W

hy is it so important to have a properly fitted boat cover?

The right boat cover keeps the boat clean from dust and debris, repels water and moisture, and prevents mold. It prevents fading to the interior caused by the sun as well as cracking from the sun's rays. In other words, a fitted boat cover packs a practical, protective punch.

There’s A Cover For That

Michael Troyer, owner of the Canvas Shop in Shipshewana, agrees with that statement, adding that there’s more to covers than meets the eye. Today’s boat owners have several options that might fit their budget and needs.

“Basically, the base form that we use is called an Aqualon®, a vinyl-coated polyester material,” he said. “And we use it to cover most of our pontoons as well as a number of boats.”

Protect your Boat with Custom Covers & Tarps Specializing in: • Boat Covers • Pontoon Tops & Covers • Shore Station • Grill Covers New and Repairs

The second option is called HarborTime®. It’s also a vinylcoated polyester material. It’s coated on both the top and the bottom, making it ideal for a bass boat, he said. The third option is called Sunbrella® and it’s the highest grade of marinegrade material.

The first two are waterproof while the latter is water repellant, but Sunbrella’s longevity is twice as long. “We get (Sunbrella) covers in here that are 15 years old, and all they need is just the stitching done,” said Troyer.

Coloring Covers

Beyond considerations related to wear and tear, you might be wondering about color. According to Troyer, Sunbrella comes in about 100 different color choices, though tan or beige are the most popular. He notes they do their best to match what the customer wants, though not all colors are created equal.

“Red is the worst color because it draws more heat than even your black cover does,” he said. “It's crazy, but the lighter the color the better, because they repel the sun better. So we do a number of them in the light gray color and the light tan color because they repel the sun. Plus, they last longer.”

Speaking of lifespan, Troyer suggests that a boat cover is worth every penny.

canvas | vinyl | webbing | clear vinyl marine fabrics | mesh screen

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850 N. Taylor Dr. Shipshewana, IN 46565

(260) 768-7755 Fax (260) 768-7766

www.shipshecanvas.com

Life is better on the

I can help you get there!

“It might seem expensive to do a cover, but redo your upholstery one time and you’re gonna’ wish you would have had a cover,” he said. “Basically, a cover is what saves your seats and all that stuff in the interior. It’s probably an eighth of the price of what an upholstery job would cost.”

Another perk is that according to Troyer, some boat covers come with warranties. This is a great feature because if the product rips, tears, or simply doesn’t properly protect your boat, you have options.

In short, a boat cover may be a sizable investment, but certainly an investment whose dividends pay off well—with protection for your boat, and all its contents.

Lori Horney-Marple Senior Loan Officer NMLS: 139300

574.527.5969 lori@ruoff.com

LoriHorney.com

Ruoff Mortgage Company, Inc., d/b/a Ruoff Home Mortgage, is an Indiana corporation. For complete licensing information visit: http://www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/141868. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend.All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #141868.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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e l y t s e f i L r ou y Elevate

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• The ADVENT 4L ADVANCED EV Golf Package is ready to Hit the Course • LED Drive Package for Neighborhood Use • Built in 2-Inch Lift • 4-Passenger with Rear Facing Second Row • Flip Seat Kit for Flat Bed Use • 6-Inch Lift with All-Terrain Tires and Brush Guard

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Visit us and take a test drive!

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

on average

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a medical spa

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

75

WATER + FAMILY FUN | the Reel Story

Catfish Craze A FISH WITH FIGHT

by Mike Petrucelli

photos: shutterstock.com

Your worst day fishing, the old joke goes, is better than your best day at work.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

A

nd the case could be made that catfish play a big part in why that joke is around; in fact, catfish may be responsible for both your best and worst day fishing.

“They’re just a big, strong, fun fish to catch,” said David Greathouse, owner of Track & Channel Bait And Tackle in Syracuse. “They put up a lot of fight.”

And since most people have seen a catfish this should come as no surprise as they even just look ornery.

Blackened Catfish Recipe If eating your catch, the classic preparation is blackened, commonly Cajun-style. Simply buy your favorite blend of blackening seasoning (or make your own; the Internet is full of recipes).

Sprinkle kosher salt on the fish and let it rest for a few minutes while the pan warms over medium-high heat (cast iron is the go-to, and it needs to get screaming hot).

Drizzle fish with oil and sprinkle both sides with plenty of blackening spices, pressing to make sure spices adhere.

Add butter, swirl to coat the pan, then add the fish and cook, undisturbed, for 2-3 minutes per side, until fish easily flakes.

Serve with plenty of lemon wedges and parsley, and/ or a Cajun or Creole sauce (either store-bought or homemade).

Where Catfish Lurk

Big Chapman, Carr, Center, Diamond, James, Kuhn, Oswego, Tippecanoe, and Winona lakes as reputed as Kosciusko County catfishing spots—that said, however, Greathouse added they can be found in just about any of the lakes around the area.

(An important note: If cooking indoors, have a working oven fan cranked up to 11; maybe open a window, too.

To save your inside air, you can also put the pan on a grill outside. That first mushroom cloud of smoke when the fish hits the pan is quite impressive). While not necessary, a fish spatula is helpful for getting beneath delicate fillets. Spatulas are easy to find and can be used for far more than fish.

Night Time Is The Right Time

While they tend to ply deeper water during the day, as it gets to late afternoon and early evening, the fish tend to get hungry and look for food in shallow channels and flats near the shore.

“A lot of people are out at night,” Greathouse said.

Afternoon or night, though, be sure to bring heavier tackle along.

As Greathouse said, they put up a fight, even from a 2-3 pound fish, which is about the average size, though they certainly can be much larger. As Qui-Gon Jinn tells us in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, “There’s always a bigger fish.”

And as Yoda tells us, “Size matters not,” so bring heavier equipment—from your rod and reel to your line, hooks, and lures—because even a 2-pound fish can put you to the test.

State Of Bait

As for what to bait those hooks with, Greathouse said catfish will eat just about anything—so nightcrawlers, cut bait, chicken livers, anything with a scent and meatiness can work.

Once the fish are landed, then it’s time to clean them.

One Way To Skin A Cat, er Fish

“Cleaning them is the labor of love,” Greathouse said, so bring your tools for that, too. “You peel the skin off with pliers, because it’s really tight to the flesh.”

After that, though, they can be filleted like any other fish.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

77

Dog Facts

Design Build - Custom Build Homes Additions - Remodels

• A dog’s sense of smell is legendary, but did you know that his nose has as many as 300 million receptors?

In comparison, a human nose has about 5 million.

451 West 250 North Warsaw, IN 46582

574.527.7219

Source: akc.org

Who do YOU want to THANK? Just send a name.

That’s it. So easy-peasy.

Selling Kosciusko County Lakes Since 1966

(We’ll print it in a future ‘gratitude list.’)

Send to: sue@lakelifemagazine.com

Syracuse (574) 457-4417 | (574) 834-2123 toddrealty.com

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZ AND STONE DIVISION 137 Chambeau Road • Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Phone: 260-483-6389 fandmtile.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

79

WATER + FAMILY FUN | Family + Health

by John C. Gill

d a distant The sun slips towar e lake and its treeline, igniting th t. Silhouetted shores in amber ligh g backdrop, against the gleamin der the waters, pontoon boats wan in their wakes. carving fluid trails st, the lection. So too is Augu unset is a time for ref fades, warm er lake season. As summ twilight of a bustling images th wi s nd ves, flooding mi memories arrive in wa Though g. hin las sp s ks gliding, and kid ya ka , ing eed sp ats d of bo gn behin the veil of , crisp autumn days ali water fun may linger The Season” heralds . “22 Ways to Wrap Up September’s softness garden prep, and estions for home and gg su th wi l fal of l the arriva leisure activity.

S

22 Seed the lawn and plant trees or shrubs. Visit local nurseries for expert advice.

Plant tulip and daffodil bulbs now for an explosion of color in spring.

1

If you leave for extended periods, set the lake home thermostat at 60 degrees. This will lower utility bills and prevent temperature variations that can damage drywall and encourage mold growth.

Control home temperature levels remotely with a smart thermostat. Especially useful at houses unoccupied in winter, these devices permit monitoring and regulation via app.

Install a smart water valve to control well pumps remotely with an app. Purchase a valve equipped with leak sensors and automatic shutoffs. Then, enjoy peace of mind when you’re lying on a sunny beach hundreds of miles from home.

7

8

9

Visit local orchards and savor the flavors of fall. Embrace the chilly air and spend an afternoon picking fruits and vegetables. Then, prepare warm, hearty soups and bake a pear tart with your fresh selections.

Bundle up, bait your hook, and cast away. Consult local bait shops for fall and winter fishing tips. Purchase an ice shanty and an auger for ice fishing.

Organize a hayride and Halloween party for the kids. Serve caramel apples and warm cocoa. Toss rings onto gourds; bowl with pine cones; build a scarecrow.

15

16

17

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

WAYS TO

Shred leaves with a mulching mower to nourish the lawn. Bury remnants in a garden or compost pile.

Clear the gutters of leaves to prevent ice dams in winter.

2

Have the furnace inspected and cleaned in the fall to lessen the chance of equipment failure on frigid days.

10

Put on a comfy sweatshirt and host a harvest barbecue. Grill bourbonglazed pork chops. Serve cranberry mandarin walnut salad, pumpkin cheesecake, and seasonal craft beers. Later, enjoy campfire-baked apples.

18

n o s a e S e h T p U p a r W Add fogging oil and/or fuel stabilizer to outdoor power equipment to protect engines from corroding and to keep gas fresh. Sharpen garden tools. Service and fuel snowblowers.

3

Snowbirds, remove food from the home before you escape to your warm paradise for the winter.

11

Move your book club indoors, to a cozy space overlooking the lake.

Discuss titles with seasonal themes.

19

Bring solar-powered lights inside for winter. Remove batteries to prevent corrosion. Clean the solar panels.

4

Can vegetables and fruits now, and enjoy a taste of summer all winter.

Empty water from the hose, outdoor pump, and underground sprinklers and valves. Compressed air best clears the lines. Replace faulty fittings and gaskets now, then flow into spring later.

Service the boat and motor.

Disconnect the battery and spark plugs, add fuel stabilizer, change oil and filters, lubricate moving parts. Shop for end-ofseason closeouts on boats and accessories.

5

6

Plan next year’s garden. Browse catalogs and shop online for vegetable and flower seeds.

Contact Master Gardeners for advice.

12

13

Spend the winter organizing lake photos and building a digital scrapbook.

Add descriptions and imaginative graphics. Share, or gift, your work.

Occupy cold days by researching and documenting the history of your lake community.

Contact local libraries and organizations for information. Recruit neighbors to join the adventure.

20

21

Brighten your home with fresh flower arrangements and bask in summer’s glory throughout the winter.

14

Don’t store the boats—yet.

Canoe or kayak in tranquil autumn conditions and allow the vibrant colors to dazzle your day.

22

photos: shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

81

WATER + FAMILY FUN | Readers’ Celebration

rate to help us celeb rs e d a re d e sk a e f the ‘Dog Days o r fo s rd o -w n -o a play ders do, you a re fe li E K A L s summer.’ And a enthusiasm. e m o -s w a p h it answered w

W

Cob awaits his Master Wayne on Chapman Lake.

Cuteness + patriotism all in one pic = Sadie, Tax, Lilly + Charlie. Submitted by Mora Connelly.

Move. Over. Cinderella. This Princess Olivia poses with lady slippers.

Submitted by Dot Brandenberger.

Tippy Lake’s pawfectly cute Dezi.

A happy Bert.

On alert.

With a smirk.

This furball doesn’t even mind being swallowed by a purple people eater.

Submitted by Samantha Carr.

Submitted by Deanna Case.

Submitted by Carol Rudin.

A family of blondes on the boat.

Meet Cynthia England’s five goldens.

Bubba’s just chillin’ lake-style.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Submitted by Carole Barry.

Stately. Poised.

At-ease. Meet Oliver, the Great Dane Submitted by Kelly.

gether on o ‘stick’ to ple family. ll o p A d an e Tip Hershey itted by th Lake. Subm Webster

Dewart Lake’s paddleboarder + kayaker, little Harry.

Submitted by Kristy Rumfelt.

Ready for a swim in Chapman Lake, once peanut butter is off his nose.

Meet the ever-loving + silly Emma.

Submitted by reader Richard Baker.

Submitted by Cindy Coppes.

Summer wouldn’t be the same without some splash-tastic wet dog shakes. Submitted by Fran Leman.

Diego (standing) and McNally enjoying Irish Lake!

Submitted by Gina & Greg Gebhardt.

A ruff day of leisure for Waveland + Ryno.

Submitted by Samantha Carr.

Toby oversees the waters of Beaver Dam Lake.

Submitted by Diana Petracek.

RIP Oreo, 3.01.2006-3.17.2022 “This was this old gals’ last lake pic at the end of 2021. She LOVED the lake and especially boat rides. She also loved daily ‘pup cups’ at the River. She had her own raft and was an excellent observer for skiers. She paid more attention than the human observers!

Gosh, do I miss her!!” ­— Erin O’Connell

o

Pepper loves his sunset boat rides as much as Kelly does, on Irish Lake.

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

83

AT HOME | Trends

Calm the Chaos

BY ORGANIZING YOUR HOME

by Shelley Galbreath

“Your home is living space, not storage space.”

–Francine Jay a.k.a Miss Minimalist

Visualize

When organizing your home, it is immensely helpful to have inspiration and a vision of what you hope to achieve. The Internet is a wonderful place to look for an image that will both motivate and guide. Magazine articles and photos, as well as organizational books like The Home Edit, by Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, are also great resources.

What if we could just live and relax in our homes instead of constantly picking up clutter and getting lost in the chaos of stuff?

Decluttering and organizing the home is the best way to move out of daily chaos and into calm control, simplifying home life.

Not sure where to start? Here’s a step-by-step schedule to get the house decluttered and organized, room-by-room, and task-bytask.

Plan

Visit any organizational website and the first step listed is to have a plan of attack. Haphazard picking up and moving things from room to room is not the solution. Instead, take the time to walk through each room in the house opening cupboards and drawers, pantries and closets, and survey the area. Make a list of the areas to be tackled first.

Prioritize

Once you’ve made your list, don’t be overwhelmed. Consider which areas are the ‘worst,’... and pick one to tackle first. The junk drawer/junk counter is a wonderful place to begin, as is the closet or the pantry.

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Remove

This step can be the most challenging. Before organizing, though, everything must be removed from the area. This way, the area can be swept, cleaned, painted, etc. before sorted items are returned to the space.

6442 W. Noe St., Kimmell, IN • 260.635.1155

Purge

Now it is time to purge.

Lori Bull, certified professional organizer, and owner of Easy Organizing Solutions, begins the purge with five boxes: relocate, keep, toss, donate, and sell. Anything that is expired, broken, unused or unworn for over a year, should be sorted into one of these boxes and purged. “When decluttering and organizing, everything needs a home,” writes Bull. Purged items should be taken to a suitable location such as the garage.

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Sort

Once purging is complete, it is time to sort and group the remaining items into groups with similar items, such as canned soup goes in one pile, cereal boxes in another, condiments and dressings in a third, and so on.

Choose

Now it is time to choose the containers, sorters, racks, trays, and other organization tools needed for the space.

Measurements may need to be taken. It is important to choose solutions that maximize space, fit the area, and provide as much access to the items as possible.

Label

While you may think labeling is for organizing nerds, Shearer and Teplin from The Home Edit believe when items are labeled, they stay where they belong, and the organizational system is successfully maintained.

Check out The Home Edit labels at thehomeedit.com/ custom-labels or create your own. The important thing to remember is to really take the time to label everything.

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Arrange

After everything is in place and labeled, arrange items in the newly organized space. You might need to adjust and play around with different configurations a few times until you have everything feeling exactly right.

No matter the project, organizers agree it’s best to start small—the junk drawer, under the sink, or the entryway.

Anything else can be too intimidating.

If this all sounds like something just too intimidating to tackle, why not contact a local organizer or a design and installation company? Most, if not all, offer a free initial consultation.

There’s also a plethora of magazines, books, websites, and local organizing pros to help you calm the chaos and reclaim your home’s living space.

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So, go ahead. Get organized.

574-457-4404 / 6521 E. Cornelius Road / Syracuse, IN 46567

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

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est: N ’s w o r C e h t f o y r A brief histo

• The Crow’s Nest was built in the mid1800s as a farmhouse by Nathaniel Crow.

• After the death of Nathaniel Crow ’s wife, it was converted to an inn by his daughter, Mattie Crow-Fick.

• Mattie added the stone porches around 1911.

• It was used as an inn during the earlyand mid-1900s.

• There were Rumors of John Dillinger staying at the inn, and it’s been speculated that famous chicken dinners were enjoyed by all patrons, including Dillinger.

• The inn was converted to a yacht club in the 1960s and remained until the early 2000s.

property extended all the way from • The original Crow’s Nest family . The original house was located Morrison Island to Johnson’s Bay t lot. on the property’s northernmos

• Since the early 2000s, the Crow’s Nest was vacant for several years and then demolished in February 2021.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

Home Design

Interiors

Cabinetry

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AT HOME | Home Profile

Something to Crow About Heil Residence on Lake Wawasee story + photos by Sue Pais

We could say this doctor discovered the cure to ensure longevity of a legacy.

Y

es, that infallible ‘cure’ was discovered, unearthed even, with the 2021 demolition of the long-vacant, yet ever-treasured land (for nearly 150 years!) of the original Crow’s Nest family properties, on the eastern shores of Lake Wawasee.

The Crow’s Nest’s 17 acres of land is now divided into 14 lots. And one is owned by generation No. 3 of the Heil family on Wawasee—thus fulfilling a lifelong aspiration for area gastroenterologist, Dr. Ross Heil.

With his wife, Megan, an area ophthalmologist, they have realized their dream of continuing the Heil lake legacy for their own children, Reed (10), Beck (7), and Crew (5)—now the fourth generation of Heils on Wawasee.

Architect Frank Souder designed this front porch to mirror that of the original Crow’s Nest. A location, in fact, where the Heil family photos had been taken during the last two generations.

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• “My husband loves this side of the lake, especially the sunsets,” Megan said. “Everything about this land fit perfectly for our family and our love for the lake.”

And in the process of planning for their family’s future, they’ve earnestly focused with equal intent on preserving its past.

The Heil History

Ross, when not practicing medicine or busy with his family, is often immersed as an avid historian. “Ross is fascinated with the history of Lake Wawasee, and specifically of the Crow’s Nest,” Megan said. As such, Ross integrated parts of the original Crow’s Nest into his new lake home, just a few lots from the original structure. And we’re not just talking about a stone or two. The Heils integrated repurposed doors, windows, and yes, as many field stones as possible from the original building’s rubble after demolition.

And being drawn to this particular area on Wawasee is no wonder.

Ross’s grandparents called this area home back in the ‘50s, and Ross himself was raised just a few doors from his new lake home. “Ross’s grandfather, Ralph Heil, moved to Syracuse from Fort Recovery, Ohio in the 1950s, after buying Klingerman’s grocery on Wawasee.

He built a motel called Heil’s Haven before selling that property in the 1970s,” Megan said. “And Ross’s parents bought the house they live at now in 1982, when Ross was an infant.”

It’s no wonder the area feels like home for the Heil family.

Because it is.

“In building where we did, we get to continue with the family tradition of living on Wawasee, as well as enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the lake—and the convenience of having grandparents three houses away,” Megan smiled.

Talk about feeling at home. Although humble as they may be, we think the Heil family has created something to crow about, indeed.

• The upstairs landing and balcony overlook this two-story, open great room with cozy fireplace—and amazing views of Lake Wawasee.

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“We tried to mimic the front porch to that of the Crow’s Nest, even incorporating some of the fieldstone from the original structure after it was demolished,” Ross said. “We wanted to preserve the look of the arches, stone pillars, and sloping concrete caps.”

But historic preservation at the Heil’s continues well beyond the front porch.

Within this 6-bedroom, 5 full-bath, 3 halfbath home, its charm is dotted throughout with an allegiance to yesteryear.

About The Home

This 7,500-square-foot lake home boasts a beautiful blend of farmhouse and craftsman styles, while optimizing its location on the east side of Lake Wawasee, at one of the highest points. This means a completely unobstructed view of the lake from every window, patio, and porch.

And again, all with appreciation for, and reverence to, a day gone-by.

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“We’ve tried to utilize items from the original Crow’s Nest,” Megan said. From a wall of refurbished windows outlining the home office (the very windows that overlooked lakeside of the Crow’s Nest), to some original doors, fieldstones and the mantle in the great room fireplace, and more, the Heils have achieved a beautiful balance of nostalgia, respect for the past, and tools + conveniences for the future.

After all, this is a very busy household with three active young boys—busy with baseball practice, summertime activities, and family fun on the water.

In fact the best day for the Heil family? It’s to enjoy one another on the lake they love most. “Together, we love relaxing on the pier every weekend in the summer as well as teaching our boys to ski,” Megan said.

“We’ll pack our lake bag in the morning— full of towels, goggles, sunscreen, and water toys—and a cooler of drinks and snacks. The day is filled with swimming, digging for clay, finding mussels, jumping on the water trampoline, and visits from friends and family by boat or land. We end the day by grilling out and watching the sunset.”

• Ross’s grandmother’s 100-year-old clawfoot tub, shown in this gorgeous, bright master bathroom, has been restored by Quality Restoration in Fort Wayne.

• Top right: The master bedroom leads to an upper level porch, adjoining with the screened-in porch.

• The children’s bedrooms are spacious, and a long hallway leads to a large playroom for the boys.

• An exercise enthusiast, the basement workout room is a happy place for Megan, a busy doctor and mom; it’s where she can rejuvenate.

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The Heils, who walk the talk, live by the following life motto: ‘hard work prevails.’

Indeed, it does. And add an understanding that in their family nothing matters more than God, family, and friends, and we’d say it’s a prescription for a happy, fulfilled life.

This unique, custom-made table is a beautiful addition to this lower level sun room with brick fireplace + matching brick floor. The custom Heils coasters were handmade by Megan’s father.

It’s just what the doctors ordered.

Shout-out

• “The basement walnut bar top is from my husband’s uncle’s land (originally also part of the Crow family’s land),” Megan said.

About the Builder: Classic Builder “They’ve done a wonderful job taking our ideas and bringing them to life,” Megan said. “There was never a time when they said something couldn’t be done; they always found a way… and they also finished a month ahead of schedule—which is rare when it comes to construction!”

• The basement is the ultimate hangout for kids + adults alike.

Decorated with memorabilia from Blockbuster movies + statues of John Belushi and Dan Akroyd in Blues Brothers, as well as vintage arcade games and seats from Chicago’s Wrigley Field, it’s a playground for all ages.

• This screen door is orginally from the Crow's Nest.

• “We love going out on the screened-in porch, overlooking the lake,” Megan said. “We love to sit there with company visiting while watching the boats on the water and enjoying the breeze.”

About the suppliers “We were really impressed with all of the subcontractors, most notably the masons from J and N Stone (Warsaw) who spent countless hours hand-picking and laying the field stone,” Ross said. “574 Painting were phenomenal, as were River Woodworking for the cabinets.

Our architect, Frank Souder, did a fantastic job capturing the essence of the Crow’s Nest facade and designing the room layouts. Quality Restoration out of Fort Wayne did an impressive job restoring a 100-year-old clawfoot bathtub to look brand new.”

You have ideas . . . we make them a reality!

Classic Builders, a family owned, full service builder, serving the Northern Indiana Lakes area since 1986. Whether you’re interested in building a new custom home or renovating your existing home, Classic Builders is known for quality craftsmanship, sound project planning, and integrity in our business practices.

Classic Builders 13630 N. Eastshore Dr., Syracuse, IN 46567

(574) 457-5401 | classicbuildersinc.com LAKElife Magazine August 2022

93

AT HOME | The Dirt

! e m i T n e d Fall Gar story + photo by Leslie Worthy

Here we are in the dog days of summer (and our last issue of the season!), thinking of cooler weather ahead, and harvesting the last of our summer garden. I always have such a melancholy feeling when pulling the last of the vegetables from the garden.

It seems to mark the end of wonderful times with family + friends— barbecues, outings at the lake, and marshmallows around a campfire!

B

ut that does not have to be the end of the garden, or that summer feeling!

Now is the time to plant a fall garden.

What?! A garden in the fall? Yes! There are plenty of yummy vegetables that can be planted at the summer’s end to harvest and enjoy well into the fall months.

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LAKElife Magazine August 2022

shutterstock.com

IT’S ALMOST

While summer is naturally considered the season for a traditional vegetable garden, fall’s cooler temperatures are ideal for growing as there are fewer diseases and pests to devastate plants. In addition, many varieties that would never grow easily in warmer seasons flourish in cooler (and even cold!) weather.

So, let’s get growing!

• plan to plant your fall garden mid to end of August • remove all dead and harvested vines and plants from the garden to make room for new seeds/seedlings • weed as needed

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• add some fresh compost or other type of fertilizer to give soil a boost of nutrition • plant seeds or seedlings according to directions given on packaging

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claytongc@earthlink.com shutterstock.com

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Some vegetables that flourish in a fall garden: • • • • • •

arugula beets broccoli brussels sprouts cabbage carrots

• • • • • •

cauliflower garlic kale, collards kohlrabi lettuce onions

• • • •

peas radishes spinach Swiss chard

Flower of the Month

Zinnia

shuttersto ck.com

These beauties are one of the easiest annuals to grow! The Zinnia flower will add an explosion of color to any garden.

These hardy flowers bloom late spring until the first frost in fall. Butterflies and hummingbirds are attrac ted to the vibrance of the blossoms that boast nearly every bright color imaginable. They grow quickly and unfailingly , making them a great choice for first-time flowe r growers.

Plant these lovelies and enjoy the endless magn ificence they offer!

CALL THE PIERFESSIONALS

574–265–4766 www.mohawkpierandlift.com LAKElife Magazine August 2022

95

REFLECTIONS | Sunsets

“W

96

e give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare, and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all.

It’s the best deal ever made.”

LAKElife Magazine August 2022

—M. Facklam, author

Ella + Giant during a sunset over Sechrist Lake, submitted by Annie Vermilion

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