LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Moms + May Days

Patios + Pergolas

Meet Ambassador Kip Tom

Strawberry Bruschetta Recipe

It’s a Seller’s Market.

#1 RANKED LAKE BROKER & TEAM IN SALES VOLUME SINCE 2015* IS SEEKING SELLERS FOR OUR CONTRACTED BUYERS.

The Kosciusko Lakes area continues to garner many interested buyers, making it an excellent time to sell. With less than one month of inventory in the area, it is critical that you have a team of experts to assist you in the efficient sale of your home.

We have contracted buyers longing for a home on your lake.

If you would entertain the possibility of selling, please contact our team today.

Lynn Reecer Team m 260.385.9866 o 260.434.5750 lynn.reecer@encoresir.com FB: The Lynn Reecer Team IG: @thelynnreecerteam

NE Indiana Lakes Office 920 S. Main Street, North Webster, IN 46555 Fort Wayne Office 5750 Coventry Lane Suite B1, Fort Wayne, IN 46804

* Ranking based on total sales volume from the Indiana Regional Multiple Listing Service - 2015-2020 ©MMXVII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. 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. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.

E X P E R I E N C E L I F E O N T H E W A T E R

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Contents Editor’s Letter Dandelions Are Flowers Too . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Letters to the Editor . . . . . . . 10 PhotoFun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The Good Life Moms + May . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Featured Opening Story Best Boats To Make You Float . . . . . . . . . . . .

22

COUNTY LAKE LIFE At A Glance: Kosciusko County . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Critters + Crawlers The Great Blue Heron . . . . . .

30

Water + Nature Health Native Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . .

32

Lake Profile The Sweet Spot of Syracuse Lake . . . . . . . . . . .

34

Milford: History, Lakes, Community . . . . . . . . .

36

GETTIN’ BUSY Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 40 Bulletin Bits + Fish Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Local Finds May Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . .

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Celebs, Movers + Shakers US Ambassador Kip Tom . . .

49

Plating Pros Chef Kelly Graff, Kelly Jae’s Lakeside, Syracuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

52

Good Deeds Sarah Thompson, Forward Indiana . . . . . . . . . . .

54

Libations Heather Holbrook, Buffalo Wild Wings, Warsaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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56

Refresher Raspberry Champagne Cocktail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

58

Food Finder Your Dining Favorites . . . . . . .

60

Bon Appetit Strawberry Bruschetta with Honey Mascarpone . . . .

62

Family Reflections . . . . . . . . .

AT HOME Featured Home The Carson Family Cottage

by Classic Builders, Lake Tippecanoe . . . . . . . . . .

80

Exterior Trends 64

Patios + Pergolas . . . . . . . . . . .

Family Fun + Traditions

The Real Dirt

Outdoor Offerings For The Fam’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Asparagus: The Crown of Vegetables . . .

66

Water Fun + Fishing Of Sailors + Old Salts: Sailor Tales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

74

Interiors Trends Master(ful) Closets . . . . . . . . .

WATER FUN

Town Profile

62

PEEPS + EATS

82

86

SUNSETS 70

Reflections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

cover photo of little Sally jumping into Lake Wawasee, submitted by her father, Justin Flamm

The RGroup Real Estate team is one of the top producing teams in Kosciusko County, representing the finest residential, lake and luxury properties. From complimentary staging consultations, professional photography, white glove services and innovative marketing plans, our team of Realtors and support staff have the tools, talent, and determination to make your real estate dreams come true.

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Angie Racolta Realtor/Owner 317.750.1600

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Editor's Letter

Yellow. Pretty.

And all over the yard.

>> W e want to hear from YOU! We love your letters— email comments to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

>> Pssst. We like you big

bunches. And we hope you like us, too... so why not ‘like’ us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram @lakelifemag, won’t you?

>> We’re getting fancy

online. Check out our new website—and join our journey on lakelifemagazine.com!

>> DON’T TELL DAD. Instead,

send us your notes + pics to say thanks on Father’s Day. Send your note (30 words or less) to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Dad grumbled about them. But he also grumbled every time the Cubs lost. Frequency dilutes the shock-factor, so I paid little attention to his complaints. I thought dandelions were bright and beautiful. Like sunshine in the yard.

And how better to brighten Mom’s day, than handfuls of yellow sunshine flowers?! Plus, I needed to rub them under my chin to see if I liked butter.

(Imagine the a-ha! moment when I learned the trick was to hold dandelions beneath the chin; rubbing them into the skin was at my big brother’s direction.) Pfffft.

Mom accepted my gift and placed the already-wilting wayward stems in a vase. My pride, too, began to wilt when aforementioned brother blurted that I just gave Mom weeds.

I squinted, staring at him super hard, trying to burn a hole in his forehead.

Unfortunately that trick only worked in cartoons. Because believe me, I tried.

Yet Mom’s hug said she liked my pretty weeds, and the look she gave Dave told me I was still her (momentary) favorite. And. That’s. All. That. Mattered.

I moonwalked out of the room in triumph. Then washed my chin.

Fast-forward 20 years. My yard, too, was drenched in dandelions. Then came precious little Courtney Sue and her rumblin’ tumblin’ toddler brother, Calvin.

Courtney’s handful of golden brilliance was beautifully arranged. Beside her was Cal in his orange t-shirt and overalls. He thrust forward a sticky fist, jumping with excitement. A few dandelions dropped to the floor without his notice, and I welcomed the remainder from his fist. I hugged both my sweet babes, Cal raced off to his next adventure, and Courtney and I talked about pretty flowers + the beauty in thoughtfulness; that it was pure goodness. On that day, I declared dandelions are flowers, too.

In this month of May, let’s recognize goodness when we see it. Let’s celebrate moms on Mother’s Day. Let’s take time to see our children and recognize their efforts. Let’s find exciting ways to explore the lakes area + the waves within our waters. Let’s cherish history and send a nod of respectful reverence toward the skies on Memorial Day for all heroes who lost their lives while serving this great country. Let’s not forget where we came from, while recognizing how far we’ve come. And if your little tyke thrusts forward a fistful of dandelions, remember beauty truly is in the eye of the be-hold-er. Your tyke sees just beauty—in the flowers, and in you. Let’s see as they do now and then.

Happy May days to all readers, and a blessed Mother’s Day to moms throughout Kosciusko County, Above, and beyond.

Enjoy this May issue. It’s created just for you.

Warmly,

Executive-Editor-Who-No-Longer-Rubs-Plants-On-Her-Face

Contributors

511 South Main Street Middlebury, IN 46540

(574) 825-0900

LOTS MORE INVENTORY, CALL FOR DETAILS!

Leslie Worthy Born + raised in a small farm town in Massachusetts, Leslie’s gardening ‘roots’ began at a young age, watching (and helping) her parents with their ¼-acre garden.

And after living most of her adult life in Connecticut, Leslie fell in love with the Midwest + moved to LAKElife Country with her husband and best pal, Tom. When not busy with one of their seven children, six grandchildren, or her four-legged compadre Lakota, Leslie can be found in her beautiful, huge garden. “I just love having my hands in the soil,” she said. “Gardening provides food for my family and it’s a relaxing activity outdoors where I can enjoy nature!” An integral part of the LAKElife writing team since our inception, Leslie’s upbeat column “The Real Dirt” can be found in each issue. Learn from her, and you’ll become master of your garden, as well. Dirt beneath the fingernails not really optional.

HOURS: Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

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RAFTS | PADDLE BOATS | MINI PONTOONS | PONTOON TRAILERS | AND MORE

Like us on Facebook.

Follow us on instagram.

Tim Miller Have we mentioned that our writer team has intellectual chops?

Of course we have, but here we are bragging again. Meet writer Tim Miller. Tim is a tall compilation of excellent wordsmith, attorney, teacher, lifelong outdoors fanatic, Eagle Scout, adult volunteer (with Boy Scouts of America), and So. Much. More. This University of Michigan alum moved to Auburn, Ind. in 1988 to practice law. While he’s remained a Hoosier, each year for the past 45 years Lake Michigan has called him home for a week of camping in a small dome tent with the lapping sound of the Lake Michigan surf to soothe the soul. Fishing, boating, and camping are his favorite things to do, and he’s taught wilderness survival, marksmanship, and hunter safety. He’s Dad to his favorite two people (aged 27 and 29), and when not cooking over an open fire, camping, canoeing, sailing, boating, riding horses, hunting, or reading, he’s graciously writing for us at LAKElife Magazine. Counselor, we’re thrilled to have you onboard.

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

We offer a wide range of flooring services and custom designs!

• SHOWERS • TILE • CARPET • HARDWOOD • LVP & MORE! LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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life

magazine

Volume 2 Issue 2 | May 2021 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 Pati.Waters@lakelifemagazine.com Mark.Collins@lakelifemagazine.com Karen.Johnson@lakelifemagazine.com Rebecca.Boone@lakelifemagazine.com Melinda.Musselman@lakelifemagazine.com Lynn.Blanchard@lakelifemagazine.com Dan.Kerlin@lakelifemagazine.com Cathy.Wilson@lakelifemagazine.com

Carrie Goralczyk BUSINESS MANAGER cgoralczyk@the-papers.com Jerry Long DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION jlong @the-papers.com Maymie Ankrom GRAPHIC DESIGNER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Ray Balogh, Mary Jane Bogle, Lauren Caggiano, Shelley Galbreath, Deborah C. Gerbers, John C. Gill, Kelley Graber, Haiden Hibbert, Tim Miller, Mike Petrucelli, Abby Phinney, Pam Schumm, Christy Smith, Leslie Worthy CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Arielle Elise Photography, Rebekah Bova, Bill Crawford, Kelley Graber, Kosciusko County CVB, Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, Mitchell Randall, Christy Smith, Mike Deak, Write Connections

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

Visiting our secret spot again, eh? We’re so glad.

Welcome, once again, to our masthead page’s small print that no one reads. Except YOU, of course, our Superstar Reader Of The Month. You. Are. Awesomesauceness.

So… moving along to welcome you (and all the other readers who don’t even know(!) what fun they’re missing), we thank you for reading Issue No. 2 of Season 2021. Grab a frothy latte, pour a cuppa’ Joe, or go-big with a bloody Mary, relax, look at the lake, and enjoy sharing time with us. We’re like homies hanging out, and you don’t even correct me on the words I make up. YOU. GET. ME. Yes, full-steam ahead we sail into the sweet spot of lake season. Flowers are blooming, pontoons are cruising, and during the month of moms all over Kosciusko County, we extend love and appreciation. And a formal apology to my mom for my antics throughout the teenage years. It wasn’t my fault. Okay, so maybe some of all of it was my fault, but why be lost in the minutia of detail? I’m far too busy for such nonsense as I have a magazine to create.

Yes, LAKElife is busily publishing away, community bidnizzes are bidnizzing, and lake lovers have started their boat engines + are making plans for a fabulous season ahead. Isn’t it wonderful?

We’re so appreciative of all the new partners who’ve joined our journey over the last year—and the many who’ve joined us this spring. We are elated to have you onboard with us, partnering through this 2021 season.

Thanks for believing in us.

Let’s celebrate May’s beauty—from warming temps, to lake life’s energies buzzing to life, to May flowers, family love, and heartfelt appreciation for area moms. Let’s be reflective of our progress since this date last year. Let’s

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

continue to support one another with patience, kindness, and grace. And for those who attended the snapping contests between Ron and Sue (that’s me), we hope you’ve enjoyed the intensity of such athletic prowess. Michael Buffer was to introduce our opening snap with, “Let’s get ready to rumble,” but such monies to afford him, unfortunately, were not in the budget.

As you know by now, LAKElife Magazine is published by your area publishing icon—yes, the one founded by the Baumgartner family, and the same one that has stood the test of time (more than 80 years!). Yep, we’re talking about The Papers Incorporated at 206 S. Main Street, Milford, Indiana, 46542, with Snappy Ron Baumgartner, sleeves rolled up, phone in a holster, and fingers snapping about ‘da publishing house with impressive deft and attitude.

He’s our leader, and all jokes aside, he’s da’bomb.com.

Our office hours are still most definitely 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for the second Thursday of every week, when we knock off at noon to throw back a few.

And, mark your calendars because competitive snap-offs are held the third Tuesday of each week.

As we are veterans to this publishing snap-fest, we know it’s important to share this message: ‘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.’ So, there’s that.

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

ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you wish to advertise, we can be super-cool besties. We

appreciate every advertiser who joins our journey. Without you, there is no us. So, THANK YOU. And for those who wish to join the rest of us cool cats, we would be happy to put your advertising message before fellow Kosciusko County lake lovin’ residents. To learn how, please contact Steve Meadows, director of marketing, at 574.658.4111 or toll-free at 1.800.733.4111. Or, email him at smeadows@ the-papers.com.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Editorial suggestions are eagerly welcomed! Please contact Sue at any time (she loves to hear from you!) at sue@ lakelifemagazine.com, or send her a text at 260.450.7736.

Letters to the editor may be emailed, and must include your name. Sue LOVES to hear from you! In her best (it’s bad) Doc Holliday impression she says, ‘I’m your huckleberry.’ Move. Over. Val. Kilmer. Again, contact her at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

LAKElife Magazine does, indeed, contract with freelance writers, photographers and artists to create much of its content. If you’re interested in joining the journey, reach out to Sue and she’ll be in touch. Again, her email is sue@lakelifemagazine.com. In fact, when in doubt about anything regarding this America-family-fun-lake-loving publication, reach out to Sue. She’s your snappy go-to walkin’ about in these here parts. No spurs, though. Just flip-flops. Spurs are SO. YESTERDAY, Doc. Therein concludes our second super-secret, informative masthead of the 2021 season… enjoy this May issue.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of Kosciusko County, and a very genuine thank you for reading. Yes, even the small print.

And congrats on winning Superstar Reader Of The Month.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Letters To The Editor

W

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

LAKElife Magazine welcomes your comments.

Simply email us at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

Yes, it’s that easy.

Letters may be edited for length.

Shutterstock.com

Letters to the Editor

Hi Sue! Love, love, LOVE the new magazine! The articles are well worth reading and pictures can’t help but bring a smile to your face. It is very nice to have something that highlights our lake area with businesses, food, and places to go around us. Thank you for your time and effort in making this possible. I even saw the note about sending pictures... so I am attaching a fun photo of my two granddaughters, Roselie (10) and Aslynn (8) enjoying some tubing time on Sechrist Lake. Their smiles say it all! WE LOVE LAKE LIFE!!!

—Mary Jean Carr I LOVE LOVE your note! Thank you for taking time to write. We printed your granddaughters’ pic last issue in our PhotoFun spread, but since you just gave my heart extra pitter-patters, here’s your girls again.

Good afternoon!

I’m wondering where we can pick up copies of your magazine— we are at Yellow Creek Lake in Claypool and are in Warsaw pretty regularly.

Thank you!

—Kim Patterson Hi Kim! We have drop locations all over Kosciusko County.

Drop me a line and I’ll help you find one nearest you, or check out our website for a full list of locations by city.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Hi Sue, I would like to nominate Amanda Lease for a story in re LAKElife. She moved back he from Florida six years ago and has worked at Boathouse, y’s Sleepy Owl, and now at Dann Sports Bar. She is well loved by her patrons, and they know if she is working, it will be a great experience and a good time. Thank you.

— Jennifer

Thanks, Jennifer. I’ll be in touch!

Hello. I picked up a complimentary issue at a business in Syracuse. I love this magazine. Is having this magazine delivered to my home an option? If so, what is the cost? Thanks so much for producing a great read.

—Eric Ellison Thanks for your note, Eric. We’re so glad you asked.

Yes, this year we have three options for receiving LAKElife. 1.If you’re living on the lakes and already on our mailing list, it’ll continue to show up in your mailbox. You’re all set. 2. We have drop locations all over the county. Visit lakelifemagazine.com to find the most convenient drop for you. 3. Subscriptions are available online at lakelifemagazine.com, or mail in the subscription card on page 89 in this issue for a home delivery. Thank you for joining our lake loving journey!

Hi Sue, I would like to nominate Pam Martens, for your next bartender of the month. She works at Noa Noa and Spikes Beach Grill in Warsaw.

—Jim Fisher Your wish is my command, Jim. Check out the April 2021 issue. You’ll see a friendly, familiar face!

Did you ever do the issue with the sunset pictures? I would love a hard copy if you did and put my pic of Dewart Lake sunset in it.

—Janet DeYoung, via Facebook Hi Janet… this season, each issue will close with a reader-submitted sunset image on our page titled “Reflections.” And yes, keep an eye out… I’ve saved your sunset image and it will print this season.

Here’s a great picture of brothers, Lathan and Pierce, catching lightning bugs on Syracuse Lake. Lathan is the single picture. They are loving lake life, and we enjoy your monthly magazine!

—Kathy Abbs, via Facebook Thanks for both pics. Keep an eye out later this season for the second image.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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n u F o t o Ph re ted in a futu d in r p s to o h p an Want YOUR fe? Wawasee’s cousins li E , K alia say issue of L A antha and M end in your m a S ls a p l best ga n!’ So s in us! It’s fu jo s. Let’s d n a n o ily + friend ‘C ’m m fa h it w ts . en rate the fun b le special mom e c d n a s oodnes share the g ents to R lake mom U O Y il a m E .

It’s easy! agazine.com m fe li e k la @ sue

Pablo’s on-point. And taller than some humans.

Why, it’s Kitty-Cat Diamond of Winona Lake again.

We think you’re purr-fect.

Submitted by Amy Higgins.

Peaceful beauty over Chapman Lake. Submitted by Carol Rudin.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

PhotoFun

A SURPRISE Happy Mother’s Day to Leslie from grandbabes Josh, Liesl, and Lucy! We love you, grandma!

Furbabes Frannie and Felix like the Oakwood, too. And boat rides. And getting lunch with their human Lynn Brockmann.

Surf’s up, dude. Like, even when the water temp is only a gnarly 50 degrees.

(Shwwhhaat??!) Submitted by Deb.

Colors, patterns, safety gear + cool shades set, little man Graham is ready for the waters of Wawasee. Submitted by his daddy (and LAKElife team member), Mark Collins.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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n u F o t o Ph PhotoFun, cont'd

With tiny toes in the water, Mila and Grandpa Bob discuss the day’s headlines.

Suds away! Don’t so many of us have lake bath memories? Of course, we do.

Submitted by Jackie Harreld.

Rachel and Lilly see what Big Mable might handle on Syracuse Lake. Big splashes. Big fun. Submitted by Pati.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

It’s big memories in-the-making for this tubing, fun, very-loved mom with her four boys: Briggs, Tripp, Sawyer, and Jaxon on Yellow Creek Lake. Happy Mother’s Day, Stacie.

Use us as your resource on things to do, see, and taste in Kosciusko County.

Live well in the moment

The day’s catch reaped more moments than meals, but a catch it was, indeed. Submitted by WACF.

VisitKosciuskoCounty.org @VisitKosciuskoCounty #VisitKCounty

If you’re thinking of selling or even if you’re not, it’s a good idea to know the value of one of your largest investments.

Call us for a free market analysis at no-obligation.

Tom Prickett 574-529-1483

Realtor, Emeritus

Mary Ellen Prickett 574-529-1397 Realtor, Broker

P.O. Box 442 • 11859 N. SR 13, Syracuse Chillin’ by the water. Even busy boys need some downtime.

Submitted by LAKElife’s Susan.

574-457-5422

prickettsproperties.com

Email: prickettsproperties@yahoo.com LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Your One Stop Shop For Digital Decals, Signs, Embroidery & More Customized Apparel Gifts • Lake Décor

574-528-0866 DK-Promotions.com

Welcome aboard at LAKElife Magazine!

1100 S. Huntington St. • Syracuse

Join us as we celebrate the Good Life. Where we celebrate family + good times. Where we appreciate beautiful nature. The lakes.

And yes, where we embrace lake life.

This is your magazine, so…

Email us at sue@lakelifemagazine: • nominate your fave chef or bartender • send lake pics of your crew • share the goodness (know someone who did a selfless, good deed?)

Wearing flip-flops and holding a half-drank beverage, we welcome you.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Enjoy the lakes area this summer...

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Exclusive Hobie Pedalboard Dealer for the Lakes Area!

Pedals & Paddles

www.pedals-paddles.com • North Webster • 574-244-2279 LAKElife Magazine May 2021

17

THE GOOD LIFE | Appreciation

Moms + May

by Sue Pais photo by Arielle Elise Photography

The days of May exude warmth, anticipation, beauty, and love. How appropriate then for the month to be dedicated to moms— who often exude the very same qualities.

May days mean warm weather is here to stay. Brilliant sunshine transforms any remaining gray to green, and the sun’s energy nourishes flowers to bloom with profound beauty.

We anticipate this fabulous 2021 lake season ahead. Of the moments yet to come. Of the stories yet created. Of family bonds to be further strengthened. And, of a season with greater intention and purpose, post-2020.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

The Good Life

O

n May 9, we celebrate the moms in our lives, and we thank them for the environments they create. For the laughter they share. For the sunny moments in our lives and the proverbial shelter through the storms.

Mom is there. And if out of sight or looking down from Above, she is never far — for hearts and thoughts may be inexplicably intertwined, always and without end.

So grab the picnic basket and blanket. Head outside for some play. Care not about the clock nor the destination.

Just enjoy. Embrace moments with one another.

And appreciate her influence, holding close her love; it may very well be the glue holding together what is indeed, the Good Life.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Kay S. Young REALTOR®, Broker CALL THE PIERFESSIONALS

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Sat., 10:30a.m.-4p.m. or by appointment

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574-594-9494 | 109 N. First St., Pierceton, IN | villageantiquegallerie.com 20

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Issue Opening Story

Best Boats To 22

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

by Tim Miler

It’s May, finally. And that means docks being dropped back in place, boats coming out of storage and launching, and bluegills bedding in the sandy shallows. The water even seems to be bluer and more inviting. It is palpable– life returning to the lake. Whether you sail, fish, canoe, kayak, surf, tube, ski, or just float, the dream of another season on the water is finally becoming reality. So, let’s celebrate everything boating and the seemingly endless variety of vehicles and toys that make our life on the lake so much fun.

Make You Float shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

23

SMALL FRY

Starting small, canoes are still popular, but kayaks and standup paddleboards are what is hot right now, and in more varieties than you might think. These are in addition to fishing kayaks, single and tandem kayaks, and a choice between sit-in or sit-on kayaks. You can also buy a pedal-powered kayak where the pedals power a propeller. “Propeller kayaks are popular with fishermen because you don’t have to pick up a paddle, you can just use your feet to power the boat,” said Steve Huffman, owner of Pedals & Paddles in North Webster.

Looking for more exercise? Consider a standup paddleboard. “You get more of a workout with paddleboards because you are standing and using more muscles to keep your balance,” Huffman said. “They are wider, more stable than they used to be.” For an even better workout there are pedal boards with a flipper drive system. “It’s like you’re standing on a paddleboard but then step up and down like on a stair stepper, and that drives you through the water,” Huffman said.

Wave Runner vs. Jet Ski Though the names are frequently used interchangeably, wave runners and jet skis are, in fact, different personal watercraft (PWC).

A jet ski is made to be ridden standing while on a wave runner the operator is seated. Too, the wave runner will often have space for more fuel and storage. Both offer all the thrills a rider could want. Like so much in boating, it just comes down to personal choice.

GET THEM WHILE YOU CAN Whatever boat you float, a word of warning. Retailers have limited supplies and manufacturers are struggling to fill backorders. Almost every retailer we spoke with expects to be completely out of inventory by mid-summer.

So don’t put off buying that boat you have been wanting, or you may be waiting until 2022.

24

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

PONTOON MUSCLE

Pontoon boats are evolving and at the cutting edge in that market is the three-hulled ‘tritoon.’ “Tritoons have come a long way over the last 10 years,” said Todd Moore, owner of Moore Boats in Ligonier. “They have really taken off.” Rather than having a pontoon and a runabout, people are just going with a tritoon that does both jobs. “It can pull kids tubing. It can pull the kids skiing.

You can take 10 or 12 people out in a tritoon,” Moore said. You can also put a bigger motor on a tritoon than on a two-hulled pontoon. “I think one of our tritoons is rated for a 450hp motor,” Moore said. This is not your grandfather’s pontoon boat.

shutterstock.com

Tritoons are not just versatile but also ride well, even on lakes covered with wakeboats. “They offer a very comfortable ride,” said Bruce Pierce, president of Tippecanoe Boat Co. in Leesburg. “That triple hull gives you an exceptionally smooth ride, even with other boats throwing up wakes. It’s like floating on air.”

THRILL RIDES

A new kind of powerboat has joined the tow boat and wakeboat on our lakes.

The surf boat has arrived. Yes, people are literally surfing in north central Indiana. “Surfing has gained so much popularity. A ton of our customers have converted from wakeboarding and skiing to surfing, in part because it does not hurt as badly if you fall,” said Carly Huth, sales manager at Pro Wake Watersports in North Webster.

Lisa Strombeck, retail store manager at Bart’s Watersports in North Webster agrees. “Surfing has kind of taken over the last couple years,” she said. “People are buying these expensive big surf boats and they are ideal for surfing because of the way they have the ballast in the boat they can create a really big wake behind their boat. You are going slow, maybe 9 or 10 miles per hour. It gets that wake at its biggest point.”

There are far too many choices to even mention them all here, but whatever boat you float, we can all agree that life is better on the water. So, here’s to another warm, wet, relaxing joy ride on the lakes, and to all of the creative and surprising ways we enjoy it. It’s Spring. Let the party begin.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

25

shutterstock.com

Those “expensive big surf boats” are a very specialized craft designed to create a surfable wake, but at a price. Expect to spend $100,000 to $150,000. Then again, it is still cheaper than moving to Malibu or Maui to surf.

Welcome to the lakes!

PRO TIP On... fishing licenses:

Tip: According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, you can buy your 2021-22 annual hunting and fishing licenses at in.gov/dnr.

Please note: the 2020-21 hunting and fishing licenses were valid until March 31, 2021.

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26

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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COUNTY LAKE LIFE | At A Glance SYRACUSE MILFORD

At A Glance

LEESBURG

Kosciusko County photos by Rebekah Bova + Kosciusko County CVB

May is an ideal month for lakeside picnics with Mom. It’s a time for hiking, biking, pontoon sunset cruises, and night-time bonfires. The days are warming brilliantly, and the evenings maintain a touch of cool.

In May, we fully reacquaint ourselves with nature, we shake out our legs from a season indoors, and we jump in with both feet.

ETNA GREEN

WARSAW

WINONA LAKE PIERCETON MENTONE CLAYPOOL SILVER LAKE

Formed in 1836, Kosciusko County offers something for everyone— whether it’s a scenic walking path or hiking adventure, water-loving interests + watercraft at any speed, dining for fine tastes, bar food, or lakeside spirits— or just a day of quaint shopping and coffee with the gals.

It’s why we choose to call our region ‘home.’ For both adventurous splashes and tranquil moments. For laughter, wild times, quiet moments, and simple hugs.

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

Warsaw

TOWNS

tone, Milford, Claypool, Etna Green, Leesburg, Men er Lake, Silv ey, North Webster, Pierceton, Sidn e Syracuse, Warsaw, Winona Lak

28

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

SIDNEY

And where better to jump in than right here, in Kosciusko County?

COUNTY SEAT

LAKES

NORTH WEBSTER

County is rich With more than 100 lakes, Kosciusko largest and the are e Her ues. with beautiful lake ven e Wawasee, Lak oe, ecan Tipp e deepest of the lakes: Lak Lake Syracuse Lake, Webster Lake, Winona

Kosciusko County Trails

Bring the fam’ and enjoy the outdoors.

Breathe. Laugh. Exercise. Enjoy Kosciusko County’s trail systems created for you to enjoy.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

29

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Critters + Crawlers

Great Blue Heron A Wetland’s Patient Predator

by Abby Phinney, public relations specialist at The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams photos courtesy of The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams

This six-pound, hollow-boned bird can seem elusive, unless you live near a local wetland or pond. When you do see one, you will probably notice its silhouette first, complete with a narrow, graceful neck and long legs. It moves patiently, wading through shallow water or circling grassland with slow beats of its outstretched wings, waiting for the opportune moment to snag a fish or rodent.

Great blue herons are the bird giants of marshlands, second only to sandhill cranes. Their distinctive powder-blue feathers, black plumes and orange bill stand out among other wetland wildlife. They can grow as tall as four feet, with a wingspan that can extend to more than six feet. Herons prefer to feed on fish but will not turn down a meal of frog, salamander, or even small rodents or other birds.

When a pair of herons are ready to nest, the males do much of the work, gathering all nest-worthy sticks and presenting them to the female. She arranges them into a saucer-shaped, moss-lined home for a future clutch of two to six blue eggs.

From the outside, these nests look like oversized sweet gum seed pods, perched 100 feet or higher off the ground. Heron

30

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

colonies, also called “rookeries,” can have as many as 500 nests.

Although herons are neighborly while in the colony, they can be fierce outside of it. They prefer to stalk prey alone. If another heron (or curious human) infringes on their hunting territory, you will likely see a dramatic display of outstretched wings and a bill thrust skyward. Their whirring, creaking voice may warn you to watch from a respectful distance.

Next time you are walking along a local lake or pond, or meandering down a trail through the woods, keep an eye out for the great blue heron!

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

31

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Water + Nature Health

The Hype About

Native Plants

by Pam Schumm, WACF Education Officer

We’ve heard it for a few years now: “Plant natives!” My questions in response were: ‘How am I going to do that in my wellmanicured garden? And, won’t it look weedy?’ Perhaps you wondered the same.

The short answer? No, it needn’t look weedy.

Woodland Stonecrop

The longer answer explains that it takes some planning and research to achieve the desired look.

Purple Coneflower

stem indicates it’s in the mint family, so it’s a spreading plant with great purple and pink flowers.

Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) and columbine (Aquilegia Canadensis) love the shadier areas of gardens.

Bee Balm

Need something a lot shorter, with a 3-inch ground cover? Try woodland stonecrop (sedum ternatum). This variety is a cute little sedum with white flowers in shade to part shade.

Size + Sun Wild Geranium

First, we need to find plants that are the right size for the beds, and we need to be attentive to how much sun the beds receive during the day.

Sunny beds can accommodate taller varieties of natives like purple coneflower (echinacea purpurea or pallida) which not only provides flowers all summer long and is great for cutting, but it also feeds the birds in the winter. Another sun-lover is the wild geranium (geranium maculatum), a ground cover that blooms nearly all summer long. This plant has a maximum height of about 8 inches so it plays well with lower-growing plants in the garden.

Columbine

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

If you want to attract bees and butterflies try bee balm (monarda fistulosa). Its square

Cinnamon Fern

Do your research before buying a native plant as certain species are truly native while others have been cultivated. A great source is INPAWS.org (Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society). Or, look for nurseries with a special section just for native plants.

www.PatonaBay.com 574.453.3970 since 1904

What’s the appeal of natives?

They originated here and are well-adapted to our soils and climate.

They will have the best chance of survival during a changing climate, unlike their hybridized cousins that have been cultivated for a specific trait or two.

Native plants have natural immunities to native diseases and critters, so you’ll use fewer chemicals and less fertilizer to keep them healthy.

Natives’ roots grow very deep (some up to 16 feet!) and hold the soil, preventing erosion. This also makes channels in the soil for deeper water penetration.

They help sustain the wildlife that exists in our area, including pollinators. Natives provide shelter and food for these special critters.

Natives planted along a shoreline will reduce soil erosion, reduce the number of chemicals reaching the water, and deter geese and other wildlife from entering your yard.

Once natives are established in the landscaping, other natural wildlife will begin to increase as well as your soil microbe diversity. Increased biodiversity means a stable, well-balanced ecosystem.

Natives are a win-win! A good source of native plants is the WACF Native Plant Sale on June 5 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. (mark your calendars!), and the Pollinator Workshop will be held on June 21 (registration required). Contact pam@wacf.com for more information on both photos shutterstock.com activities.

800.727.0609 | SteffenRealty.com LAKElife Magazine May 2021

33

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Lake Profile

by Haiden Hibbert | photos by Sue Pais

Clear water, relaxing lake life, and gorgeous real estate— that’s what you’ll find when you visit Syracuse Lake. This 413-acre body of water surrounds Syracuse, Ind., and is connected by a channel to the beloved Lake Wawasee.

The Sweet Spot of

SYRACUSE LAKE 34

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

T

he area surrounding Syracuse Lake provides the perfect scenic vacation, or residence if you’re looking for the best of both worlds.

Syracuse Lake is a bit quieter and smaller than the neighboring Lake Wawasee, but close enough to enjoy their bustling lake life, social scene, and tourism if you’re looking for a fun and lively summer getaway.

Visitors and locals alike enjoy the variety of shops and restaurants around the Syracuse Lake area. Some of the town’s staples include: The Channel Marker Restaurant A quaint tiki bar and restaurant that’s located on the channel between Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee.

This island-inspired dining place sits right on the water with seating indoors and outdoors.

Frog Tavern A family-friendly restaurant and bar that’s accessible by land or lake.

Kiyomi Japanese Cuisine Serving authentic Japanese food like sushi and hibachi, Kiyomi is a local favorite in Syracuse. It’s the perfect place to grab high-quality carryout or dine-in dishes.

Syracuse Artisan and Farmers Market For locally grown produce, baked goods, and flowers, visit the Artisan and Farmers Market on Saturdays from May 8-September 11 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. It’s located at Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill.

Lake is known for its gorgeous homes with even better views. From quaint cottages to multi-million dollar lake homes to beautiful condominiums, the strong housing market offers miles of waterfront properties.

When you’re in the mood to get out on the water, there’s plenty of opportunity on this all-sports lake for waterskiing, sailing, boating, tubing, swimming, and more. One of the area’s hotspots is Lakeside Park, where the lake’s public swimming beach and beach volleyball court are located. There’s an active fishing community in Syracuse, as well, where largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and northern pike are plenty.

Lake life doesn’t go dormant in the colder months on Syracuse Lake, however. You can find residents snowmobiling, ice boating, and ice fishing when weather allows. It’s an all-seasons getaway, though we are approaching the most active time of year on the lake (finally, right?).

Tradition lives strong on Syracuse Lake, with multiple annual events that residents and tourists look forward to each year. Annual Fourth of July fireworks, launched from both Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee, are a family favorite, while Tour des Lakes is one of the most celebrated events Kosciusko County has to offer.

Beautiful waters, home, fun, and family-oriented activities encompass life in the waters, and surrounding the waves, of Syracuse Lake.

If you’ve ever driven through the scenic area, you know that Syracuse

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

35

COUNTY LAKE LIFE | Town Profile

History, Lakes + Community:

by Lauren Caggiano | photos by Mike Deak + The Papers Incorporated

Milford— with a population of about 1,500— may be small, but its small-town charm packs a mean punch. From festivals to natural resources like a public beach, Milford has a lot to offer locals and visitors alike. Milford was established in 1836 and was incorporated in 1880, and today is still considered a friendly and safe place to call ‘home’ for all ages.

36

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Milford

T

ricia Gall, the town clerk and resident, paints a picture of Milford’s local flavor and scene. “Among the main attractions, we typically hold Milford Fest every year in the downtown area,” she said. “The Milford Lion’s Club puts it on.

However, we’re not having it this year again due to COVID-19.

Our hope is that it’ll be coming back soon.”

In the meantime, she said there’s still plenty to take in, year-round.

For example, Waubee Lake is a small freshwater lake situated two miles southeast of Milford. Waubee Park is located on the north side of the lake and is a small, family-oriented park with a playground, lake access for boat launching, and a clean lake for swimming and fishing. According to Gall, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and some quiet time.

Come See The Big Cheese!

Photo property of The Papers Incorporated

Recreational time aside, there’s a time and a place for work in Milford as well, of course. Gall said the area is home to such employers as Maple Leaf Farms, Chore-Time Brock, The Papers Inc. (woot-woot! A shameless plug for the publisher of LAKElife), Lake City Bank, and others.

There’s also local character in the form of mom-and-pop businesses and nonprofits. For example, Harvest with a Heart is making an impact by uplifting residents’ health and well-being. In addition to operating the coffee shop, located at 103 S. Main St., they also offer youth programming to enrich the community. “It’s a coffee shop with a purpose,” Gall said. “They hold different events… my youngest is learning how to play chess.” They also offer crafts and science-based activities.

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On the note of enrichment, the Milford Public Library, is a gem in its own right. Since 1919, the library has been a cornerstone of the Milford community, thanks in part to the generosity of Andrew Carnegie. The institution makes literacy and educational opportunities accessible by offering equal access to materials for all ages. The summer reading program is just one example.

In short, community pride is alive and well here. One example? “We have a really great volunteer fire department,” said Gall. “We’ve been fortunate that ours is really strong and continues to be a great group of guys. It’s nice to have it right here in town, and they do a great job with community outreach, too.”

Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a day, the town of Milford is a great example of small town Indiana charm.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

1680 Lincolnway W., Ligonier www.countryscapesandgardens.com

LTPO’s 2021 flotilla theme is "Kidz A Palooza," held July 3. Parade may be watched from the Patona Dance Hall.

What’s YOUR Association Up To?

Want to share goals + plans from your lake association? We thought so (and we thank you).

Send 300 words or less to sue@ lakelifemagazine.com + let’s spread some more fun, lake-oriented goodness.

The Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners (LTPO) is an organization for the preservation and love of our lakes. Lake Tippecanoe is Indiana’s deepest natural lake. Tippy connects directly to Lake James (Little Tippy) and Oswego Lake— lots of acreage. LTPO focuses on lake preservation, meaning the control of lake weeds, shoreline preservation, and boating etiquette.

The association hosts fireworks, a flotilla, fish fry, dances, and much more. You don’t have to live on the lake to love the lake and its wonders. Slide your boat in at a boat ramp, or just sit on the shore. Bottom line? The members of LTPO and residents meet once a month to share committee news, and the public is welcome. Check out LTPO.org for updates and events.

—Dan W. Drook, LTPO board member

Happy Mother's Day, Kosciusko County!

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10201 N SR 13 | SYRACUSE | 574.337.1308 LAKElife Magazine May 2021

39

GETTIN' BUSY | Events

Kosciusko County

Calendar of Events

by Ray Balogh

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

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

SATURDAY, MAY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Center Street in front of the courthouse, downtown Warsaw.

Produce, baked goods, artisan goods, and more. Free admission.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. 574.265.7774, visitkosciuskocounty.org

WARSAW COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

NORTH WEBSTER COMMUNITY CENTER

TUESDAY, MAY 4 WACF PROGRAM

(Please call ahead to confirm in-person activities)

(Please call ahead to confirm in-person activities)

Friends of the Library meeting, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Monday, May 3.

Learn more about FOL projects and community involvement. Public is invited.

Yoga classes, 9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, upstairs fitness room. $5/session.

Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF) Center, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse. Program: rock painting. 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. RSVP to pam@wacf.com. 574.457.4549, wacf.com, facebook.com/wawaseeconservancy

Children’s Crafts To Go, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Tuesday, May 4, 18. Craft kits available for pickup while supplies last.

Friends of the Library Story Emporium Bookstore, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 8, 22. All proceeds go toward supporting the library.

Blooming Art, 5 p.m.-6 p.m.

Wednesday, May 19. Get creative with your garden. Available on library’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. Children’s program.

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.

Cardio drumming, 6:30 p.m.7:30 p.m. Monday, Thursday. $5/ class or $40/session. Call Heather Bontrager, 260.797.8804.

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.

SATURDAY, MAY 1 EARTH DAY FESTIVAL Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF) Center, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse. 20 different activities, items for sale, interactive activities (most free), family fun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 574.457.4549, wacf.com, facebook.com/wawaseeconservancy

SATURDAY, MAY 8 AN EVENING WITH CROWDER Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, 2515 E. Center St., Warsaw.

Christian song artist Crowder has earned three Grammy nominations and sold more than 3 million records. $70/$60/$45. Two performances: 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

574.267.2618, wagonwheelcenter.org

SATURDAY, MAY 8 BIRD WATCHING WALK Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF) Center, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse. Bring binoculars and dress appropriately for wet ground. Free admission. 8 a.m. 574.457.4549, wacf.com, facebook.com/wawaseeconservancy

SUNDAY, MAY 9 MOTHER’S DAY BUFFET The Pier & Back Porch Restaurant at Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse. $32/adult, $16/children 6-12, free/children 5 and under. Starts at 10 a.m; last reservation at 2:30 p.m.

574.457.7100, oakwoodresort.com

FRIDAY, MAY 14 THE MERSEY BEATLES: FOUR LADS FROM LIVERPOOL Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, 2515 E. Center St., Warsaw.

World’s most authentic and only Liverpool-born Beatles tribute band. $40 VIP/$30. 7:30 p.m.

574.267.2618, wagonwheelcenter.org

THURSDAY, MAY 20

HISTORICAL LAKE WAWASEE CRUISE Boarding at The Frog Tavern, 1116 S. Harkless Drive, Syracuse.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate the cruise aboard the SS Lillypad II. Snack food and cash bar available. $25/person.

Boarding at 12:30 p.m., cruise from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Contact mknecht@chqw.org.

574.377.7543, chautauquawawasee.org

FRIDAY, MAY 28 LAST FRIDAY Veterans Memorial Park at Crosson Mill, 301 N. Huntington St., Syracuse. Street fair, vendors, live band. Sponsored by SyracuseWawasee Chamber of Commerce.

5 p.m.-7 p.m. 574.457.5637, renea@swchamber.com, swchamber.com

SUNDAY, MAY 30 TAPS ACROSS THE WATER Memorial Day tribute featuring Taps performed by more than 30 buglers around three area lakes. Organized by ChautauquaWawasee and American Legion Post 223. Free admission. Dusk.

Contact mknecht@chqw.org for information. 574.377.7543, chautauquawawasee.org

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

shutterstock.com

Do YOU have an upcoming event?

Great! We’re happy to share the news.

Quality Service with a Hometown Touch

PRO TIP On... lakefront real estate

GARDEN

CENTER

7185 N. S.R. 13 North Webster, IN 46555

574-834-2249

claytongc@earthlink.com

www.claytongardencenter.com

Tip: The SELLER is the GOLDEN GOOSE in THIS rare Sellers Market...BUT how long will it last? Hurry and sell now before the market falls again, and it always does eventually.

BUYERS must hire a very skilled, creative, and connected real estate broker that can dig up INVISIBLE inventory before hitting the market, with this super low inventory in order to SELL their existing home at these record prices.

Profit-wise, it is an ideal time to DOWNSIZE in a SELLERS MARKET; in contrast to being an ideal time to UPGRADE in a BUYERS MARKET. 30+ year local appraiser Mark Swift says he has never seen a market like this in all his years. "It is nearly impossible to price a home today."

Lynn Reecer, Real Estate Advisor/Broker Associate Encore Sotheby’s International Realty 260.385.9866 lynn.reecer@encoresothebysrealty.com

L A K L EA

W AW W A S E E A W A S E E

K E

BOAT-IN WORSHIP BOAT-IN WORSHIP Services will be held on the lake in front of Oakwood Inn & Resort.

Services will be held on the lake in front of Oakwood Inn & Resort.

Come by boat or sit on shore.

Come boat or sit Frog’s on shore.

Seating is alsoby available on the SS Lilly Pad at no charge.

Are you an expert in your field Seating is also available on the Frog’s SS Lilly Pad at no charge. and have a tip to share? Send it in to sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

Memorial Day (May 30th) to Labor Day (Sept 5th) - Sundays 8:30-9:00 www.wawaseecompass.org

Memorial Day (May 30th) to Labor Day (Sept 5th) - Sundays 8:30-9:00 www.wawaseecompass.org LAKElife Magazine May 2021 41

GETTIN' BUSY | Bulletin Bits + Fish Bites

Bulle tin-Bits + Fish Bi te s This new space is for you, dear readers. Consider it a printed bulletin board to pushpin your announcements. Having a fish fry for the public? Catch an unbelievably humongous fish?

Want to thank someone local?

Allow us to be your new bulletin board. Just don’t stick us with a pushpin.

Calling All Bicyclists

r the Set aside May 22 fo Fest Tire Mini Fat & Skinny a Lake. on in W n in downtow erings While the event off comin d have been limite 18 st parison to their pa D-related years (due to COVI e of concerns), at the tim t & ini Fa this printing the M L roll IL W st Skinny Tire Fe will t en ev on. This year ’s ntain ou M include the DINO

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Paybacks + Thanks Have ‘dadjokes’ ne’er ceased in your home?

Does your dad don black socks with his own dapper style? Or, want to just say, ‘thanks Dad,’ for checking the oil (and knowing he'll always have your back)? Sure, you do. So, share a Father’s Day note or pic for Dad. Send ‘em in so we can flood our pages with happy, secret notes to surprised dads all over Kosciusko County.

They’ll print in the June issue of LAKElife.

Send your note (up to 30 words), plus pic if you wish, to sue@lakelifemagazine. com and we’ll take care of the rest. And sshhhhhh… don’t tell Dad!

r Countryside Bike Race and thei ces from a Tour— with distan miles, up to a family-friendly 13 fatandskin100-mile ride. Visit eir Facebook nytirefest.com or th information. page for updated

photo courtesy of

Kosciusko County

CVB

+ tin-Bits e l l u B r u ents to send yo Please s announcem m. o e fish bit femagazine.c keli sue@la

DOOR INSTALLED

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(800) 331-1174

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We Specialize in: • Property Management • Landscaping • Hardscaping Design & Installation Lawn Care

“Experience the difference.”

574-457-6334

derek@totalpropertycareinc.com • totalpropertycareinc.com

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

43

GETTIN' BUSY | Local Finds

May Shopping ‘May’ we interest you in some local shopping?

(See what we did there?)

Whether for Mother’s Day or just a leisurely afternoon of shopping, let’s enjoy the season, celebrate the progress we’ve made over the past year, and help support our local shops.

It’s a great season to visit area boutiques and stores— and be enticed with all the a-may-zing offerings right here, in Kosciusko County. We think you’ll be a-may-zed.

Okay, enough of that? Yes, onto the good stuff:

The Mucky Duck

901 E. Canal St., Winona Lake, 574.306.2906 Facebook: @themuckyduckinthevillage Gotta’ Furbabe?

Dog moms are moms too. This shirt even says so.

She’ll woof you for this one.

The River Coffeehouse

127 S Main St., North Webster, 574.834.1488 Therivercoffeehousenw.com Breakfast In Bed No need to scoop eggshells out of Mom’s scrambled eggs this year. Hit the drive-through at The River Coffeehouse + buy Mom some avocado toast, newly added to their menu. Try either the pico + avocado, or the feta and basil, both served on sourdough.

The Gift Shop At Wawasee 507 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, 574.457.8524 Thegiftshopatwawasee.com Recipes from Lake Country Check out the new cookbook by LAKElife’s pal, Loren Shaum. This cookbook features local seasonal ingredients, seasonal recipes, and a section on one-dish-dinners that Mom might really appreciate. Available at various Syracuse stores, Fables Books in Goshen, and on Amazon.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Suck It Up No, we’re not talking tough love.

We’re introducing this super cool reusable stainless steel straw set.

Each canvas bag includes a straw for all your beverage scenarios: water, smoothies, protein shakes, thick milkshakes + more.

Bart’s Water Sports

7581 800 N., North Webster, 574.834.7666 Bartswatersports.com She’ll Love This Kind of Slingshot This slingshot won’t get taken away.

Check it out: Slingshot Contrast Women’s Wakeboard. At Bart’s. And on sale, last we checked.

Fit For Lady-Safety This life vest allows freedom of motion and is fit for a lady. Yes, this ladies life vest awaits its new water queen.

Landscape - Hardscape - Irrigation - Lawn Care 4948 IN-15 Warsaw, IN 46582 574.268.2566 - Sales@wlminc.biz www.wlminc.biz

Countryscapes and Gardens

1680 Lincolnway West, Ligonier, 260.894.4498 Countryscapesandgardens.com May Flowers for Mom Isn’t this a beaut? Just like your mom. Find this ‘Pastel Delight Bouquet,’ or one of many other varieties online at countryscapesfloral.com, just in time for Mother’s Day!

BRING THIS AD FOR:

$5 OFF a purchase of $50

$20 OFF a purchase of $100

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Rocket Fizz

1005 E. Canal St., Winona Lake, 574.267.3789 Facebook: @rocketfizzwinonalakein Ah, the gift of chocolate. But this one’s tailored to Mom’s mood. Clever.

901 E. Canal Street

|

Winona Lake, IN 46590

|

574-306-2906

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

45

SALES ON P OLY WOOD, C LOTH ING, & ANTIQUES — E VE RY TH ING!

M E M O R I A L D AY

TENT SALE 800 S Huntington St Syracuse, IN 46567

May 27th – 30 th 9:30 am – 4:00 pm

Contact me today and let me help you finance your dream home!

Julia Moore NMLS# 399947 (574) - 453 - 1096 juliam@firstfederalbanking.com www.julialmoore.com Borrowers must meet underwriting guidelines. First Federal Savings Bank is FDIC Insured and an Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#399927

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Haven’t you heard?

We have a brand new, shiny, fun website!

So, join us at lakelifemagazine.com like us on Facebook @lakelifemag follow us on Instagram @lakelifemag

Burnworth-Zollars A U T O M O T I V E

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WE HAVE THE SELECTION! SCAN THE QR CODE to start shopping!

350 US-6 Ligonier, IN 46767 Sales: 260-894-3127

350 US-6 Ligonier, IN 46767 Sales: 260-894-7176

2450 N Main St Nappanee, IN 46550 Sales: 574-773-7878

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

47

BROOKWOODCOMPANY.COM 5912 Old Maumee Rd. • Fort Wayne, IN 46803 • 260.749.5012

When I Say Good You Say Neighbor

Auto • Home • Business • Property • Life • Health 1101 S. Huntington St., Suite 2 • Syracuse 48

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Celebs, Movers + Shakers

Meet US Ambassador

Kip Tom

by Sue Pais photos provided by US Ambassador Kip Tom

There are many who think about helping others (and, we thank you).

There are some who put thought into action to help others (and we thank you, too). And then there are those few who proceed with insatiable pursuit to fulfill needs on a global level, while representing this country we love.

Ambassador Tom visiting a farm + inspecting its crops outside of Khartoum, Sudan. Because they have not been allowed to access the innovations we have in the US, they suffer more than $8 billion in losses from various pests— but as Ambassador Tom said, “it is not the financial loss but the loss of lives that occurs because they do not have the ability to fend off the pests, and hunger becomes a more significant issue.”

One such soul is from the small town and farm fields of Leesburg. And although his appointment as US Ambassador placed him in Rome, his roots have always remained firmly planted among the Tom Farms crops and fields, right here, in Kosciusko County.

LAKElife readers, we are pleased to introduce to you, our very own US Ambassador Kip Tom. LAKElife Magazine May 2021

49

Ambassador Tom pictured with USDAID personnel from the United States and Zimbabwe, along with the World Food Program country manager; during a visit to a storage facility of US commodities at a site in Harare, for later distribution in Zimbabwe to food-insecure populations.

and the community I grew up in that supported my efforts globally.

What are your thoughts on exhibiting a servant-like attitude.

I believe many of us receive a calling to give back to the world. It could be serving in a capacity in an individual’s local community on a school board, a local nonprofit, or on the national stage serving our country in government or protecting our nation. There are just so many ways. I am just fortunate to have these opportunities to help in any way I am able, and am humbled by the task at-hand to benefit humanity around the world, in order to achieve peace and security.

What’s a concern you have for humanity, based upon your experiences around the world?

Hope can so easily slip away without individuals having compassion for and support of our next generation, our environment, and improving humanity and people’s livelihoods. Without hope, people unfortunately may become involved in many other activities that can be detrimental to society, themselves, and their families.

World Food Program Executive Director David Beasley and Ambassador Kip Tom following the ceremony to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in January 2021.

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Please provide us a glimpse into your role + accomplishments.

As Ambassador to the Rome-based UN agencies, it was my honor to represent the United States of America. I am most proud of how we changed the direction of the Food and Agriculture Organization to improve agricultural capacity and resilience in developing worlds. I also worked with the World Food Program (WFP) to increase the capacity of the WFP to meet the food security needs around the world during the COVID pandemic.

As a farmer, I was able to bring a unique perspective to the role as a practitioner, and hope I was able to provide greater insight as to how agriculture, in addition to our mission to feed the world, can be not only a peacemaking tool, but also a promoter of operating systems that reduce our carbon footprint and protect our environmental surroundings.

Please share a little about your Midwestern roots.

I am not only a Midwesterner, but I am proud of my upbringing and my roots in Leesburg, Indiana. I am a seventhgeneration farmer, having grown up in a family that instilled the values of hard work and recognizing the importance of staying on the job until it is done. I grew up in a family of very modest means, but I fully enjoyed my rural life with my loving and supporting parents, siblings, and family— and with the indelible experiences found within organizations such as 4-H, FFA, and our church.

How did your upbringing affect your successes today?

As a family we would go to church, usually arriving 15 minutes early every Sunday, despite having already completed several hours of chores, eaten a well-rounded breakfast, and gotten seven of us through one bathroom to get ready! It was my parents, my family, my environment,

If you had one wish then would it be to end hunger?

Earth has plenty of food. But millions don’t have enough access to it. Hunger has many causes but is exasperated by decisions to not address those causes directly, and in a timely fashion. Hunger is typically caused by climate issues, conflict, incomes, food prices, culture, and politics all in negative combination.

To prevent hunger and ultimately famine, we need to find new ways to work together. So, my wish is that we could do just that—work together to solve famine and poverty.

Please share a little about Tom Farms.

Tom Farms is a family farm, as are nearly 98 percent of all farms in the US today.

Our family settled in northern Indiana in 1837 and my children are now operating the business in the day-to-day activities as the eighth generation. We have two of the ninth generation currently studying Agriculture at Purdue. We, like many family farms across the US, make decisions that are multi-generational in terms of legacy, transition, our environmental impact, and our desire to seek continuity for the family business to continue.

Please describe the needs you’ve witnessed, so we better understand what’s occurring on a global level.

Often times as Americans we tend to ignore (or not accept) the challenges that others in the developing world face. Keep in mind, the US is only 4.5 percent of the world’s population.

By our estimates, 30 million people are in extreme hunger-emergencies today. These folks are always hours, or at the most— days away from starvation and death.

While they are in this condition, they are permanently damaging their health, productivity, and ability to recover— ever.

At the next level, there are 270 million people in hunger-crisis, which includes those who are unfortunately destined to join the 30 million in extreme hunger emergencies.

“I traveled to Beruit, Lebanon following the explosion in August at the port that killed and injured thousands. Beside the port was storage of significant amounts of grain intended to feed many of the nation’s hungry; the food was lost with the explosion. With support of the United States and the World Food Program we had food, emergency supplies, temporary housing, and medical resources on the site within 24 hours. The people of Lebanon were already in a desperate hunger situation even before this blast occurred…” – Ambassador Tom

Life is better on the

I can help you get there!

Lori Horney-Marple Senior Loan Officer

Do you still reside in Italy? Any plans to return ‘home?’

As a Presidential appointee and Senate-confirmed US Ambassador, and like all other US Ambassadors around the world, we were mandated to be back on US soil on January 20, 2021. I stayed engaged serving our country until the final minutes before noon on January 20 after returning from my post in Rome, Italy.

Today, I am living near Tippecanoe Lake and the farm I have been a part of since my early childhood. George Washington made the following quote: ‘At my age, and in my circumstances, what sinister object, or personal emolument had I to seek after, in this life? The growing infirmities of age and the increasing love of retirement, daily confirm my decided predilection for domestic life: and the great searcher of human hearts is my witness, that I have no wish, which aspires beyond the humble and happy lot of living and dying a private citizen on my own farm.’ I can assure you I have not reached this landmark period that President George Washington has described, as I have much more to accomplish in this life, but his sentiments are certainly words which I easily embrace.

So, you’re ‘home.’ Any lake-oriented memories you’d share?

I grew up between Leesburg and Milford, so after a day of baling hay or pulling weeds on the farm our parents would take us to Tippecanoe Lake, or Waubee Lake to ‘cool off’ on those hot and humid summers in Indiana. We didn’t have a boat but we certainly enjoyed the time at the beaches. Today, I want to make sure farms like ours and others continue to be stewards of our environment, working to protect our lakes and streams for future generations.

Any final thoughts to share with our readership?

It is easy for us to get caught up having a focus on life in the US. Possibly we complain about trivial issues like traffic congestion, WiFi speed, cellular coverage, or a feature in our car or home.

Meanwhile, hundreds of millions of people around the world are living on less than $2 (US) a day. Less than 1 percent of our US budget goes toward foreign aid. I believe awareness of the crises around the world is critical. What we do with that awareness may involve educating the next generations about world food issues and their impact on peace and security, and broadening our own involvement in promoting food security, not only in the US but on the global stage.

Humble thanks to you for your service Ambassador Tom. You should still be called Ambassador, correct?

Yes, the title Ambassador stays with you for life. But I am still, just Kip.

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.

Design • Build • Maintain

beyondlandscaping.com 574-527-7973 LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Plating Pros

A Little Chic + A MEET:

Chef Kelly Graff Kelly Jae’s Lakeside

by Shelley Galbreath photos by Write Connections | strategy + design

Chef Kelly Graff has always been interested in cooking, but her journey to becoming a chef was somewhat circumstantial… when she stepped into the role to fill-in as needed at her parents’ restaurant, Checkerberry Inn, where she worked from 1987-2006. It was a circumstance that was meant to be; she instantly loved the challenge of creating dishes others enjoyed and appreciated.

After her time at Checkerberry Inn, she worked at Citrus, An American Bistro— then, in 2008 Graff opened Kelly Jae’s Cafe in downtown Goshen, where it remained until 2020.

Her newest venture is in Syracuse. Kelly Jae’s Lakeside has a casual, no-fuss lake vibe, so whether in shorts and sandals, picking up carryout, or celebrating a special occasion, the Lakeside can accommodate.

LAKElife readers, meet restauranteur Chef Kelly Graff.

Kelly Jae’s Lakeside 110 E. Main St., Syracuse 574.537.1027, kellyjaes.com

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Lotta’ Lake Vibe

Why did you become a chef?

I have always been interested in food. My mom was an excellent cook and I was exposed to all types of different foods growing up. Having worked in the hospitality industry, the kitchen and restaurant is what allowed me to be the most creative. Having a heightened sense of taste and smell has allowed me the ability to create unique and tasteful dishes.

How has your background shaped you into the chef you are today?

To me it is all about taste and textures. I try to create dishes so that three or four flavors come into the mouth at the same time, so people get a bit of sweet, salty, and hot— all in one bite.

What is your signature dish?

We have several that could be considered signature dishes. A customer favorite that has been a staple in all my restaurants is the Jae’s salad which features field greens, blue cheese, spiced pecans, Asian pear, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Pork Pad Thai has also been something that customers rave about. I like to mix Asian flavors into many of my dishes.

What has been your most rewarding experience as a chef?

The wonderful and kind comments from patrons when we closed the Café (in Goshen) were humbling and overwhelming.

It was great knowing how much our food and presence impacted the community. We were blown away by the kindness and support we were shown.

What do you enjoy most about being a chef?

Creating bold flavors with a few key ingredients is something I pride myself on. I do not lean toward complexity for the sake of a large ingredient list. Every ingredient in my food has a purpose and a specific flavor I wish to enhance. I also enjoy working with locally sourced food when possible. I believe in creating a community.

How would you describe your restaurant?

The Lakeside is your restaurant, with a vibe we hope is welcoming to all. We want it to feel a bit ‘big city,’ but comfortable where a person can get a drink and chill, or celebrate a special occasion. We create dishes with bold flavors that are not overly complex. We have unique flavor profiles with dishes you expect to find in a larger metro area.

Do you do anything special when plating your dishes?

You eat first with your eyes. Our plates present our dishes in a way that sparks curiosity and invites you to take that first taste.

Partners in business and life.

What gives you the greatest joy as a chef?

Seeing people appreciate the food and environment that we provide them. I love seeing my crew treated to compliments and love because this is a joint adventure for us all.

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

53

PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Good Deeds

Celebrating goodness within our community. ominee:

Good Deeds N

Sarah Thompson Hometown:

r North Webste

story by Lauren Caggiano + photo provided by Sarah Thompson

The Deed:

This artist and Wawasee High School graduate is feeding two passions to satisfying a hungry cause. Art and social justice intersect with a community pantry initiative serving communities in northeast Indiana.

Sarah co-founded ‘Forward Indiana’ and now places 6-foot tall cabinets of food available for those in need, in various areas around the region. Her sixth neighborhood food pantry has been placed in Leesburg. Along with perishable food, the pantries may also be stocked with personal hygiene products and diapers. The cabinets’ exteriors are covered in Sarah’s artwork.

Who or what inspired this project?

I was serving a hot meal to folks every Sunday in a park in Fort Wayne… and I wanted to find a way to feed people every day, 24/7. I was inspired by a mutual aid group in Denver that manages a handful of community fridges.

What has been the public’s reception to the Leesburg pantry?

The Leesburg pantry is hosted by (and placed outside of) Trump Realty (at 103 W. Van Buren St.). The owner of this business, Theresa Taylor, was my childhood neighbor. When we installed the Leesburg pantry, we had the most people we’ve ever seen at an install! There were 10-15 people waiting for us as we arrived. They all had items (to donate) to fill the pantry. We’ve seen and heard such a great response from those giving and taking from the pantry. Folks are happy to contribute… and take what they need, too!

How can people get involved?

Giving to a pantry or even just organizing one is an easy way to get involved. We also have a donation link in our Instagram bio @forwardindiana.

Left to right: Sara Thompson, Theresa Taylor

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Do YOU want to nominate someone for a good deed?

It’s easy. Just email Sue at sue@lakelifemagazine.com.

She’ll take care of the rest!

Outdoor Living Starts with a Dream

Create an outdoor space to entertain— beyond a grill, why not include cabinets, fridge, and a sink as well as a pizza oven? Give family and friends a comfortable place to gather with a dining area warmed by a fireplace or fire feature. Add lighting, sound, water features and structure with stairs and walls to define your space and add texture to your landscape design. Find endless possibilities at our design center and outdoor showroom filled with samples for you to explore with your contractor or on your own. kuertoutdoorliving.com KUERT OUTDOOR LIVING 2129 W. Wilden Ave., Goshen, IN 46528 574-312-7557 KUERT SUPPLY CENTER 3113 Lincolnway West, South Bend, IN 46628 574-239-0058

We are hand-dipping over 40 Flavors of Gourmet Ice Cream!

Soft Serve available for shakes, malts and sundaes

574-457-8763 1201 S. H untington St. Sy r acuse

Handmade Waffle Cones Daily!

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Libations

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Mixing Up a Good Time

by Deborah C. Gerbers photos by Sue Pais

Warsaw native Heather Holbrook brings lots of laughs and talent from behind the bar at Buffalo Wild Wings in Warsaw. Having lived in Topeka, Shipshewana, and her home of Warsaw, this fun-loving Indiana gal enjoys her work— and loves to make people smile.

LAKElife Magazine, meet Heather Holbrook, equal parts bartender extraordinaire and friendly, fun times.

Buffalo Wild Wings 376 Enterprise Dr. Warsaw 574.267.7707 buffalowildwings.com

Please share a little about yourself… are you originally from Kosciusko County?

I moved back with my family to Warsaw as a preteen, and I’ve been living here ever since. I’m married to my husband, Josh. We recently celebrated our 15-year anniversary!

We have three boys— Isaac, Bailey, and Brady. They are truly the best part of me.

How did you get into bartending?

I’ve been with Buffalo Wild Wings for six years. I started out as a server, and after a few months was promoted to bartending. This was my first time working in a bar, so at first it was very intimidating— but I loved learning the mixology part of it all.

What is the best part of your job?

My favorite thing about my job would be… that I can be super goofy!

I love making people laugh. ‘Bdubs’ is a place where you can escape and feel part of a something other than the normal daily grind. When you come sit at the bar rail, you can be sure you’ll leave with a smile and want to come back again. I truly appreciate all of my regulars— who mean more to me than they will ever know.

Without all of them, I wouldn’t be who I am. We have all become such a close family.

Do you have a favorite recipe you’d like to share with our readers for a summertime drink?

It’s hard coming up with just one summertime drink. I enjoy mixing different things together and coming up with my own recipes. If I’d have to choose just one, it would be a drink I call Papa Smurf. It’s fruity, and looks as good as it tastes. (Editor note: Heather’s recipe for the Papa Smurf drink to come in a later issue of LAKElife.)

Outside of work, what hobbies or interests do you have?

Hobbies outside of working would be spending time with my family, my bestie Becky, and her daughter Ella. We enjoy going to the lake in the summer, camping, and cooking out.

What are some tips for the at-home bartender? What are some key ingredients?

A tip for an at-home bartender would be: don’t be afraid to try new recipes. And the best ingredient—the key ingredient is to have fun. Enjoy coming up with your own signature drink!

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Remodel Custom Home Builders Interior Design

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Need a REALTOR®?

Rob & Lucy Smith property management, short sale — call me for ALL your real estate needs!

My wife Lucy is also a Broker of over 22 years. In our spare time you can find us spoiling our 2 grandkids or out on the lake with our dog, Sailor!

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Legends Group 58

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Raspberry Champagne Cocktail It’s another gem for the 21-and-over crowd — but this one is with Mom in mind.

Rob Smith Knowledge, Experience, Integrity

Having grown up on Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee, I am knowledgeable about lakefront living and I can help make your dream come true! With over 35 years of experience — buying, selling, lake front homes, waterfront homes, new construction, commercial,

PEEPS & EATS (people + food)

wawaseelakerealtor.com

robsmithhomes@yahoo.com

Pretty as it is tasty, it’s an ideal beverage treat for special occasions. This one takes a little more effort than an open-andpour drink, but special touches are the details that make an occasion extra special, right?

Right.

It’s just sweet enough to satisfy partying taste buds, and its cold bubbly is refreshing all the same. It’s an ideal addition to your Mother’s Day brunch, or any sunny day, lakeside.

| Refresher

N N I V E RSA RY A 75 TH

Griffi

t h Fa m i l y O w n e d S i n ce 1 9 4 6

by Sue Pais Serves 4

Ingredients: 1 cup fresh raspberries (use frozen if you wish) ¼ cup sugar ¼ cup water 4 tablespoons lemon juice 1 1/2 cups champagne or dry sparkling wine fresh raspberries + mint leaves, for garnish

Complete Marine Sales • Service • Storage Boston Whaler • Starcraft • Mercury

Directions: 1. Cook raspberries, sugar, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over low heat until sugar is dissolved, about 10–15 minutes. Strain liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing the fruit, cover, and allow to chill.

2. For each cocktail glass, add 2 tablespoons of the chilled raspberry syrup, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and top with champagne or sparkling wine. Garnish with raspberries and mint leaves, and make a loving toast to Mom.

wawaseemarina.com

260-856-2286

9171 E. Ross Dr. Syracuse, IN 46567 Like Us on & LAKElife Magazine May 2021

59

PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Food Finder

Food Finder

NAPPANEE China Buffet

LEESBURG

MENTONE

Bar & Grill/Pub 108 S. Main St. 574.566.3280

American/Family Restaurant 309 S. Main St. 574.453.3071

Family Restaurant 108 E. Main St. 574.353.7979

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Chinese 410 S Higbee St. 574.658.3919

Bar & Grill 132 S Main St. 574.658.4904

CLAYPOOL

Stacy’s Restaurant

China Sea

Main Street Bar & Grill

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.

Someplace Else Saloon

MILFORD

Teel’s Family Restaurant

Chinese 1305 E. Market St. 574.773.0539 china-buffet-nappanee.edan.io

Dutch Kitchen

American 700 N Tomahawk Tr. 574.773.2828

Kelly Jae’s Lakeside American + Korean Limited Hours 110 E. Main St. 574.537.1027 kellyjaes.com

Louie’s Bar & Grill

El Cielito Lindo

Mexican 108 W. Market St. 574.221.2013 el-cielito-lindo-nappanee.edan.io

Hunters Hideaway

Family Restaurant 153 S. Main St. 574.773.7121 huntershideawaynappanee.com

Main Street Roasters Coffee 105 N. Main St. 574.773.5333 mainstreetroasters.com

Ruhe 152

Bistro/Brewery/Distillery 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

NORTH WEBSTER Hot Head Burritos

Specializing in custom and craft recipe burritos, bowls, tacos, nachos + quesadillas, Hot Head Burritos offers both dine-in or carryout. Each order is prepared fresh with over 40 ingredient choices, including 12 signature sauces. Muy beuno!

Choose big or lil' burrito + bowl sizes. And there’s more: Hot Head offer kids’ meals, too! Online ordering is available for quick pickup at hotheadburritos.com.

635 N. Main St. 574.244.2233 hotheadburritos.com

Lucky’s Tavern Bar & Grill 560 S. Main St. 574.834.7433

Maria’s House of Pancakes Creperie/American 104 E. Esterbrook Dr. 574.834.4400

PIERCETON

Man Cave Brewing Company

Red Apple House of Pancakes

Brewpub 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

SILVER LAKE

Peterson Fish

Ice Cream Shop 108 W. Main St. 260.352.0999

SYRACUSE Chubbies Pub and Grub

ar & Grill B Voted best restaurant by Syracuse-Wawasee 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

Joe’s Ice Cream Supreme

With more than 40 flavors of hand-dipped 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

Palette, An American Eatery American 2521 E. Center St. 574.268.1733 paletteeatery.com

Pat’s Chicago Dogs

Igloo Ice Cream Shop

Bar & Grill 2308 E. Center St. 574.387.6114 oakandalley.com

Bar & Grill 209 E. Bowser Rd. 574.457.3944

Pizza Stop & Subs

Pizza 301 N. 1st St. 574.594.3535

Oak & Alley

American 601 S. Huntington St. 574.457.5586

Seafood 1009 S. Huntington St. 574.528.5000

Sleepy Owl Supper Club

Breakfast 2616 Shelden St. 574.267.3007

Rua

American/Thai 108 E. Market St. 574.267.4730 ruawarsaw.com

Spikes Beach Grill Bar & Grill 310 Eastlake Dr. 574.372.3224 spikesbeachgrill.net

WINONA LAKE

Cerulean Restaurant Pan Asian 1101 E. Canal St. 574.269.1226

American 11374 IN-13 574.457.4840

The Channel Marker Bar & Grill 5793 E. Pickwick Dr. 574.457.5900

WARSAW La Troje

Mexican 115 S. Buffalo St. 574.376.4234 facebook.com/LaTrojeWarsaw/

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

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, changes and closures are occurring at a rapid rate. Contact establishments prior to visiting to determine current status.

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PEEPS & EATS (people + food) | Bon Appetit

Bon Appetit

Are you preparing for your Mother’s Day brunch? See if this will make Mom’s smile even brighter.

recipe + photo by Christy Smith, MNT, nutrition counselor christy@wholetohealthy.com

Spring and Mother’s Day mingle delightfully with this fresh, unique flavor combination! Surprise your favorite mom with breakfast in bed, or serve with other pink foods for a cute, themed brunch. Here, I’ve paired the dish with pink lemonade (add champagne or Moscato if you’re really trying to win her over), and homemade strawberry scones. If strawberries aren’t her thing, any fresh fruit will do!

Strawberry Bruschetta with Honey Mascarpone Serves 4

Ingredients: 1 French baguette 1/2 cup butter, softened 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional) 1/2 cup mascarpone 1-2 tablespoons honey, to taste 1 1/2 cups strawberries, sliced 1-2 tablespoons herbs, chopped (mint or basil are great with this) Balsamic vinegar glaze, for drizzling on top optional toppings: slivered almonds, toasted pecans, jalapeno slices

Directions: Preheat oven to 350.

In a medium bowl, add mascarpone and honey, mixing until well blended. Taste and add more honey, if desired. Set aside.

Cut the baguette into slices diagonally, and place on cookie sheet. Spread softened butter on the top of each slice, then sprinkle each slice with approximately ½ to one teaspoon sugar. The amount will just depend on your sweet tooth. You can leave the sugar off entirely if you prefer.

Bake just until tops start to brown, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes before spreading mascarpone mixture on top.

Once the baguette slices are slightly cool to the touch, spread each slice with the mascarpone honey mixture (about 1 tablespoon per slice), top with sliced strawberries, chopped herbs, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

Sprinkle with nuts, fresh black pepper, or even jalapeño slices for a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

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574-834-2941 MetcalfPayneBell.com

219 E. Camelot Ln. North Webster, IN

License No. CP19500068

So, you’re new to

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Welcome aboard!

As we kick-off season two… we invite you to join us in celebrating the Good Life!

Are you a lakefront reader already receiving the mag?

Great! That won't change.

(LAKElife mails directly to lakefront households living on 22 of Kosciusko’s largest lakes.)

Not on the lake but want to join the party anyways? (of course, you do!) By popular demand, we're now offering SUBSCRIPTIONS so you, too, can receive your copy every month during our season…

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With flip-flops at-the-ready and a half-drank beverage in-hand, we welcome you to LAKElife Magazine.

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www.RUHE152.com

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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WATER FUN | Reflections

“Life is about creating and living experiences that are worth sharing.” — Steve Jobs

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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WATER FUN | family fun + traditions

by Mike Petrucelli photo by Rebekah Bova + courtesy of Kosciusko County CVB

The past year or so has meant spending a lot of time indoors for most of us, and coming out of winter into the spring (soon to be summer) sun is no doubt feeling pretty good. One can be forgiven for just sitting in that sun and decompressing, but at some point, everyone needs to get up and be active. Luckily, LAKElife Country has plenty of offerings when it’s time to come off the water or get up out of that deck chair. Here are just a few:

Outdoor Offerings

Camping

If camping is in the offing for Mother’s Day, or any other day, Kosciusko County offers plenty of opportunities for that.

Stacie Johnson, who (with her family) runs Hoffman Lake Campground (which her grandparents founded in 1964), is already in the midst of what is already shaping up to be a busy season. Hoffman Lake offers a variety of camping options, from tent camping to larger RVs, as well as two cabins for rent. And there’s a full slate of fun for Marvelous Moms Mother’s Day weekend. Family-friendly movies will be shown on Friday nights, including that weekend. Muffins with Mom (free muffins for the moms out there), and a wine and cheese bingo for women 21 and older are also planned (dads: be on the lookout for Dads and Doughnuts, and Beer and Chips Bingo in June). Early reservations are recommended at hoffmanlakecamp1964.com.

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The Warsaw Parks Department offers RV camping almost right in downtown at Pike Lake Campground. The park has more than 40 sites with full hookups for electric, water, and sewer right on the east shore of the lake. Once you’ve taken advantage of the beach and the fishing, downtown is a decent walk or short bike ride away. The campground is open April 15 through October 1. Most sites are seasonal, but the city keeps some sites in reserve for weekend or short-term stay campers (there are no tent camping sites). Also, on the west shore of Pike Lake, Lucerne Park offers a nine-hole disc golf course.

See a full list of camping options at visitkosciuskocounty.org/ sleep/campgrounds for locations around the county.

Winona Lake Trails

Whether you want to go on two legs or two wheels, fast, slow, or in-between, the Winona Lake Trails offer nine miles of scenic trails that should suit your motivation, whether it’s fitness, mountain biking, peace and quiet, or your weekly “nature bath.” The trails wind their way through wooded sections, along Cherry Creek, as well as through the former Chicago Boys Club Camp. It also isn’t very far from town, so you can take that new bike for a quick spin (via the Heritage Trail), and get something to eat to satisfy the appetite you’ll no doubt work up. The Winona Lake Trails are also part of the county’s Greenway system, as well as Ride + Walk Warsaw + Winona Lake. Find maps, trail etiquette and up-to-date trail conditions at winonalaketrails.com and ridewalk.com.

For The Fam’ Nature Preserves

Kosciusko County has a number of nature preserves. ACRES Land Trust manages four preserves, three of which are open for public hiking. Bock Nature Preserve, near Akron, offers an easy hiking trail of just over a mile. Its 47 acres include beech and maple woods, but also include tulip (Indiana’s state tree), sycamore, black cherry, and blue ash (a rarity in these parts for you tree spotters). A tall grass prairie

field has been established with grasses and flowers; spring is a great time to see the trilliums that grow there. A little further north in Etna Green is Glennwood Nature Preserve, which also features an easy, one-mile trail. Glennwood features one of Indiana’s 15 circumneutral bogs: a former pond that is now filled with “a springy mat of mosses, ferns, and sedges resting on a bed of peat,” according to their website. It also notes the forest around the bog is filled with Canadian mayflower, shiny club moss, sarsaparilla, cinnamon, crested shield, and royal ferns.

ACRES recommends coming back in the fall for an amazing color display. If you want a bit more of a hiking challenge, or are a birder, head south near Silver Lake, where you’ll find Wildwood, which boasts 4.5 miles of trails through 255 acres. Trees and flowers are varied throughout, from waterfowl to woodpeckers (if you’ve never seen a pileated woodpecker before, and you’re lucky enough to spy one, you are in for a treat).

The Bock and Glennwood trails are slated for retirement in 2024, so see them now

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while you can. More information, as well as trail rules (take only pictures, leave only footprints, etc.) can be found at acreslandtrust.org.

Greider’s Woods Nature Preserve

covers 10 acres in the Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area in Syracuse and is known for its spring carpet of wildflowers. For more information, visit in.gov/dnr/ naturepreserve and click on the Greider’s Woods link. It is open for hunting inseason, so if you plan to go, check with the Tri-County property manager ahead of your visit.

shutterstock.com

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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JAYH CONSTRUCTION, LLC Custom Burritos, Bowls, Tacos Nachos & Quesadillas

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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WATER FUN | Water Fun + Fishing

Of Sailors + Old Salts Sailor Tales

by Mary Jane Bogle + photos by Bill Crawford of Harbor Pictures

Welcome to the second story in our two-part series on sailing life in Kosciusko County. In this issue, you’ll meet a few of our region’s sailors and hear their salty tales. (Special thanks to the Wawasee Yacht Club for sharing these firsthand accounts with us!)

The Initiation – by sailor Sue Sharp My friend Karen convinced me to go sailing with her, just to see if I would like it. On a tack, the wind direction feather indicator at the front of the boat got tangled in the halyard and was about to break loose.

Karen headed into the wind, let out the main, and slowed our progress so I could snake out on the deck to fix it.

Just then, a huge puff of wind caught the sail, yanking the main sheet out of Karen’s hand, and the boom knocked me straight into the water. The boat screamed off on its new tack at break-neck speed while the main sheet grabbed hold of my sunglasses, my cap— and my trailing ponytail, dragging me underwater like a fishing lure.

After what seemed like eternity, I felt Karen’s hand tugging at my head. My cap and a big clump of hair came off in her hand, but I was freed from the tangled mess.

My head popped out of the water like a cork. I had heard of club initiations before, but this was the ultimate in ridiculousness!

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The Misadventure – by sailor Alan Fox While it is widely known (in the sailing community) that Berkley Duck’s back porch played an important part in the formation of the Wawasee Boating Association (WBA), his pontoon boat nearly negated all that his back porch had contributed.

Berk had a style that was to provide us with numerous adventures in the early days of the WBA, and he promptly introduced me to it during preparations for the first race. As I was attempting to sail along the port side of the committee boat, he quickly turned 90-degrees left, impaling my Y-Flyer onto his left front pontoon. We patched my boat, and Berk and I went on to sail many races and establish a long-term friendship.

But it almost ended before it began!

A Boat Named Sassy – by sailor J.B. VanMeter Was “Sassy” a sailboat, or a rodeo bull? Rule No.1 of owning a boat: It’s bad luck to change her name. But something had to give. One Sunday morning, using a piece of masking tape and a Sharpie marker, we went to an interim name: “The Boat Formerly Known As Sassy.” Suddenly, she treated us a little better.

Then her permanent name came to us: why not something with a triple meaning? Two of us on board hail from Lake Tippecanoe... you know, Lake “Tippe.” She did capsize often, and she was, of course, a fine E-Scow. So, we named her after our home lake and reflected her past affection to capsize at will. Not forgetting the E, we had it: “TIPP-E.” We seem to have survived the curse of changing her name, and everyone feels right at home. Knock on wood, we are looking for another great season on Lake Wawasee.

Kosciusko County sailors strut their stuff at the annual Hoosier Lightning Regatta at Lake Wawasee in 2019.

Farewell, Crow’s Nest The Crow’s Nest, built by Nathaniel Crow in the 1860s, has served many purposes on Lake Wawasee— first as a private residence, then as an inn, and finally as a home to several yacht clubs. Contractor Mike DeWitt plans to revive the 17-acre property, albeit without the home that gave it its name. Even so, this home’s unique heritage will live on, as DeWitt plans to incorporate the original porch field stone in the seven new lakefront houses slated for construction at this historic site.

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Designing your Dreams into Reality

(574) 533-0597

2423 Peddlers Village Road, Goshen, IN 46528

www.leathermansupply.com • Family owned since 1964 • Cabinets & Countertops • Windows & Doors • Visit our newly remodeled showroom 72

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

Uniquely Crafted To Fit Your Lifestyle

“It was a pleasure installing the Heating and Cooling Systems for the Carson Family Cottage.”

Residential • CommeRCial 574-457-8973 | ritterservices.com u Custom Built Homes u Additions u Interior Renovations

u Custom Kitchens u Baths u Garages

Becky Hart Fox Cell (574) 457-9045

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

574.773.4308 www.reliancedbr.net

Kinetico water systems work solely on the flow of water, not electricity! This allows the system to only work when it needs to, using less salt and water than traditional systems.

Proud water treatment provider for the Carson Family Cottage.

WARSAW | 574-267-3853 Warsaw | Huntington | Lafayette | Grabill | Logansport | Kokomo LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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AT HOME | Home Profile

The Carson Family Cottage: A Legacy of Lake + Love Lake Tippecanoe

One property. One family name.

One legacy with depths far beyond the region’s deepest lake.

The Carson familly

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M

eet the Carson family, and enjoy a glimpse into their multi-generational love for lake life, for Lake Tippecanoe, and for one another—past, present + all to arrive in the future.

For what this home signifies is deeper than the home’s construction and features. It embodies all family, and heralds a nod of appreciation for those who began roots on this very property nearly 75 years ago. It was back in the ‘40s when a journey had begun; one that would unknowingly bless future generations beyond the couple’s wildest dreams.

That couple was Robert and Claudia Carson. They’d purchased a fishing cottage on Lake Tippecanoe; the year was 1948. That same cottage was frequented by its next generation, endured two renovations over the years, and now the property houses a brand new build, completed in May 2020.

The vision and purpose for the tear-down and new build? You might have guessed— to house the entire family and encourage this legacy to continue for many more generations. Within the same family, at this treasured family getaway on Lake Tippecanoe.

The cozy main level living room overlooks the screened-in porch, the lake, and opens to the large kitchen.

The new home, owned by Bob Jr. and Barbara Carson, is a beautiful, functional, four-bedroom, 3,600-square-foot home (that comfortably sleeps more than 14!). The house underwent its construction with assistance from their children, siblings Jeff and Vikki, in collaboration with area builder Classic Builders.

Top: In 1954, Bob Carson Jr. + his wife Barbara honeymooned at the fishing cottage on this same property. Friends made this sign for them. It hangs today in the family home.

Above: The master bedroom suite is decorated with a comfortable, cottage feel, and includes a beautiful, sunny bathroom, and huge master closet.

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This loft above the garage is a great place for the young great grandchildren—and for their friends in the future.

The kitchen table was in the original fishing lodge when purchased in the ‘40s. It became the dinner table for the new owners, and remains the dinner table for the same family, generations later.

And this year, in 2021, the memories made will be plentiful. “The new home is a place to bring family together for the summer holidays,” said Jeff Carson. “Here, it’s a family legacy of generations, and our hope is it continues for many more.”

The kitchen's granite countertops and cabinets were supplied by Leatherman Supply. The huge island is situated for optimal lake viewing.

“We currently have four living generations enjoying lake time,” said Vikki Conrad, “and we rebuilt so all the generations to come can experience it as well.” And as the family continues to grow, with four grown grandchildren and six great grandchildren, the summer residence will be full of energy, fun, laughter, splashes, and time together to just ‘be.’

“The perfect lake day for us includes all family, noisy with a lot of little great grandkids running around—we have five under the age of four—and we’ll have lots of boat time and swimming, lawn games, and a cookout for dinner,” Jeff said.

It paints a picture, doesn’t it?

Yet a newly built home does not infer the fishing cottage of the past is mere history.

Syl and Allison with Classic Builders were able to help preserve the cherished family history along the way. “We all loved the knotty

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The screened-in front porch was a ‘must’ for the Carsons during the new build… it’s one of the family’s favorite areas of the new home. This, plus the exterior landscape + entertaining area are ideal for this big family. “The architect was challenged by our project due to the lot size, well, and septic challenges. He worked it all out just beautifully,” Vikki said.

This sliding barn door is just one of many trending features in this new home.

The upstairs TV/playroom is a favorite spot for relaxing. Views overlook the lake, a trainset and toys await the great grandchildren, and a big comfy couch allows seating for many.

pine that our father and grandfather installed in the family room of the former cottage many years ago,” Jeff said. “We wanted to hold onto some pieces of the old cottage for memory and nostalgia.

Syl was able to salvage many pieces and reuse them in the kitchen.” In fact, the repurposed knotty pine seen beneath the kitchen bar is the very same wood installed in the 1950s by Bob Jr. “We have known Syl and Allison for close to 15 years. They’ve worked on several projects for us, and we cannot say enough positive things about them,” Jeff said.

“They are wonderful and so easy to work with. Every project, including this lake house, has exceeded our expectations with quality of work and finishing on-time.

It’s been a pleasure getting to know them and their family… it’s nice to be able to call them good friends.”

Good friends, good times, loving family, cherished nostalgia, and plenty of laughs… it’s without a doubt, the very best catch by one beloved, late fisherman.

“The cottage has the most awesome sunsets and is a gathering spot for all of us,” Vikki said. “We all grew up here… with ice cream, watermelon, boat rides, fish fries, and fireworks!”

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Before

After

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 78

LAKElife Magazine May 2021

13630 N. Eastshore Dr., Syracuse, IN 46567

(574) 457-5401 | classicbuildersinc.com

Coming Next Issue:

June’s Dad Days • Father’s Day tributes • antique + wooden boats • grillmasters 301 EMS T46 LN Leesburg, IN

• fishing lines + lures • boat bars

(574) 834-2271

www.tippecanoeboatcompany.com staff@tippecanoeboatcompany.com

SALES • SERVICE • STORAGE • RENTALS

Our Family Our Family Serving Serving Yours Yours For OverFor 30Over Years30 Years

• Largest • Largest Selection Selection of Frames of Frames in the in Area the Area • Full Service • Full Service Lab onLab Siteon Site • ALL Contact • ALL Contact LensesLenses • Safety • Safety Glasses Glasses • Prescription • Prescription And Non-prescription And Non-prescription Sunglasses Sunglasses Featuring: Featuring: • Oakley • Oakley • Maui•Jim Maui • Wiley Jim • X Wiley • Nike X •• Nike Coach • Coach • Ray-Ban • Ray-Ban LAKElife Magazine May 2021

79

AT HOME | Trends, Interiors

Master(ful) Closets

by Kelley Graber, interior designer, president of Kelley J. Interiors

Closets aren’t just for hanging clothing any more. I have found many people no longer use their dressers, thanks to the awesome closet systems out there. Today, we can keep everything— from socks to our jewelry in one spot: the master closet.

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Sunstream Boat Lifts “Changing the way the World Boats”

H

ow? Today’s master closet sizes have increased. If you’re thinking, okay, but I live in an older home, here’s a thought: you can use space out of a nearby bedroom or den to create your dream closet. An upscale closet can be done at any budget.

Consider hiring a closet or cabinet company to make a plan for customizing your space, or go to your local box store to create your own, right off the shelf.

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

“Customer Service Is Our Mission”

The following are some customs items to consider when thinking to trick-out your closet: • baskets • hooks • belt racks • velvet-lined jewelry drawers • drawer dividers • tie racks • velvet hangers • hampers • valet rack • display cabinets for shoes, boots, or hand bags

Velvet-lined jewelry drawers

A Bright Idea Consider adding special lighting for extra drama. A chandelier is always a good idea if you have the space. If not, recessed can lighting is a clean look. Be sure to add adequate lighting to ensure the space is bright.

Have fun, measure, plan, and create your dream closet.

www.bellesantemedspa.com 260.436.6900

5010 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN LAKElife Magazine May 2021

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Stepping Out in Style PATIOS AND PERGOLAS FOR LAKESIDE LIVING

by John C. Gill + photos provided by Bruce Ewing Landscaping

Beneath the midday sun, a sailboat drifts across the blue expanse, leaving in its wake a wave of shimmering reflection. In the distance, an osprey dives to the water and then, with wings extended, carries its catch toward a tree-lined shore.

Homeowners across Kosciusko County enjoy such appealing views, often from an inviting vantage point.

Investing in a patio or a pergola brings charm and versatility to any lakeside property. These aesthetic and functional modifications enhance the appearance of a home’s exterior, and also provide a streamlined space for relaxing and entertaining by day or by night.

And, as materials, styles, and options abound, homeowners may customize their designs and create outdoor spaces that range from conventional to extravagant.

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“What we have found is that folks want an outdoor patio as an extension of their indoor living space,” said Leslie Ewing Kitch, vice president of Bruce Ewing Landscaping in Fort Wayne. But constructing a patio, she added, “is more complicated than just putting some nice flagstones down and calling it a day.”

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AT HOME | Trends, Exterior

Installation Know-How

In northern Indiana, severe winters with alternating freezes and thaws can ruin an improperly laid patio, so professional installation is key. Since the job itself is labor intensive, with variable costs, homeowners must first decide how much to allocate financially to the project. Next, they will assess their outdoor lounging, dining, and entertaining preferences, which will determine the ideal patio dimensions to suit their needs.

Ewing Kitch said while pavers, concrete, stamped concrete, and other materials work well in the lake setting, “we especially love the look of flagstone.” This natural product may be laid in any number of patterns, with or without mortar between the stones, and does not require special care after installation. Multiple shades of flagstone, from tan to cobalt to charcoal, in a variety of cuts and sizes, guarantee a color scheme and layout to complement any lake home.

Pergolas

Visually attractive yet functional, a pergola, when installed over the patio, redefines the overall space. This openair architectural feature filters sunlight when oriented properly, and also invites the lake breeze.

Typically, four posts support a series of cross beams and rafters that span the top of the structure, while the sides remain open. Lower-maintenance options include fiberglass and vinyl, but cedar pergolas appeal to homeowners who prefer a rustic appearance.

Durable, and resistant to insects, weather extremes, and decay, cedar pergolas may be sealed with wood stains to produce a desired finish, or left untreated for a natural look. The various sizes and configurations available promise a finished look that is both proportionate to the space, and stylish.

Endless Options

After selecting the base material for the patio, homeowners may then consider integrating a myriad of add-on features, including fireplaces and firepits, outdoor kitchens and grills, stereos and televisions, lighting schemes, and hot tubs. Waterfalls and infinity pools lend an elegant and tranquil atmosphere to any patio. The possibilities, Ewing Kitch indicated, are limited “only by imagination.” Creative persons, therefore, might embrace this opportunity and decorate their terraces with artwork, handicraft, or floral arrangements reflective of their talents or tastes.

Like patios, pergolas will accommodate a variety of accessories, and homeowners routinely adorn their pillars and beams with hanging planters, climbing plants, and miniature string lights. But those who favor swanky decor might outfit a pergola with flowing, sheer curtains, upholstered couches, and a chandelier, igniting an ambiance reminiscent of a Gatsby-era garden party.

Docking a classic Chris-Craft nearby reinforces the theme.

Just as a picturesque view enhances lake life, so too does savoring the scenery from the comfort of a custom designed patio or pergola.

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AT HOME | The Real Dirt

The Crown of Vegetables:

Asparagus

by Leslie Worthy

The birds are singing, days are warming, and tulips and daffodils are popping up their pretty little faces to the sun. It’s May— and that means it’s time to get our hands in the soil and start planting spring gardens!

T

here are so many varieties of scrumptious and interesting vegetables to plant, however, there is one that many people forget about when it’s time for planting: yes, you can grow your own asparagus!

Oh, those tall, lovely stalks of deliciousness! Asparagus spears are tender, crisp, and full of flavor. Asparagus are a delightful vegetable to plant, one of the earliest harvested vegetables each spring, and did you know an asparagus plant can last up to 15 years, giving you a bountiful harvest year after year?

The Real Dirt On Asparagus

Plant after the last threat of frost, after May 2.

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So, put on your overalls, grab your shovel, and let’s get planting!

When planting asparagus, you will be planting what is called the “crown” of the plant.

Ten crowns will fit in a 4-by-8-foot bed, and are generally enough to supply a nice harvest for a family of four. You can modify this rule for the size of your family.

Asparagus likes rich, well-drained, non-acidic soil.

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Dig a trench that is 12 inches wide. Make sure it’s long enough for each crown to have 18 inches of growing room. You can make your trench wider, just be sure that it isn’t wider than four feet, this way you can reach the center of the bed without having to step inside the bed.

Make small mounds of soil every 18 inches. Spread out each asparagus crown’s roots. Place the root over the mounds.

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Once you’ve placed all your crowns, begin filling in the trench. The top of each crowns should be covered with at least two inches of soil.

Thoroughly and deeply water each root.

After planting, let your asparagus go for a year. The following spring you will be able to harvest and enjoy!

What to plant in May:

beets, beans, cabbage, carrots, chard, lettuce, onion, potato, turnips, radishes, melons, tomatoes, peppers, squash

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SUNSETS | Reflections

“May every sunrise hold more promise, and every sunset hold more peace.”

—unknown

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