mandi@townepost.com (574) 249-9217
tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
HARVEST AT MARKET 52
HOOVER FAMILY INVITES
VISITORS
TO THEIR FARMSTEAD & SEASONAL MARKETPLACE
Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger
Autumn in northern Indiana is truly a breathtaking spectacle to behold. It’s a season of bounty and blessings, with bold and blazing colors of the earth — gold and bronze, crimson and copper — all brushed against the backdrop of a milky blue sky. It’s a scene that beckons travelers all around Elkhart County, and it’s definitely worth a second look to take in the beauty.
It most certainly describes the home and farmstead of the Michael Hoover family, just northwest of Syracuse. And not only would they be delighted for folks to stop, they invite visitors to shop as well.
Michael and Jacquie Hoover are the proprietors and partnership of Market 52, a rural showcase of locally grown produce, sourdough breads, chrysanthemums and other fall-themed treasures. Their home-based enterprise is a perfect venture for their family, set
Photographer / Tony Straw
Owners Michael & Jackie Hoover with family
against a panorama of well-manicured rolling lawns, meticulous rows of gardens and magnificent shade trees.
On any given day, it’s a hub of activity, as the Hoovers run roadside stands, tend to their plantings and spend time educating their six daughters and two sons. Market 52 is truly a family business.
This season marks the second year for Market 52, and right now is the perfect time to take advantage of the Hoover family’s finest.
Seasonal produce includes pumpkins and gourds, local honey and savory jerky meats. They also have a wide selection of mums in robust fall shades.
One aspect of Market 52 has risen in popularity — much like the sourdough bread Jacquie expertly crafts. Her varieties have rapidly turned into customer favorites, such as whole wheat, jalapeño cheddar and cinnamon raisin. She also offers bagels on occasion, as well as a special creation of sourdough bread known as a boule,
which she describes as “a rustic white” created in a more flattened, freeform style.
When asked why she chose to specialize in sourdough breads, Jacquie explains that sourdough is a preferred choice for customers with dietary concerns, particularly those with sensitivities to gluten or who need a sugar-free option.
“The fermentation process breaks down the gluten and eats up the sugar, so it’s safe for people who are gluten intolerant or for diabetics,” she says.
Jacquie takes orders three days in advance and presents the orders on Tuesdays. The Hoovers also bring in produce from other local resources, and they have been consistently busy thus far, averaging around a dozen shoppers a day, almost every day of the week. They are faithful proponents of the honor system, allowing customers to drop by outside of their customary 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. business hours.
Once the winter season settles in, they begin making plans for the upcoming growing season and forming connections to offer more seasonal items. In the summer, Market 52 features sweet corn, melons, tomatoes and other favorites.
Eventually, Michael says, they hope to expand their business to
HOMETOWN THREADS
LOCAL MOM OPENS GENESIS TO BRING FABRIC & GOODS CLOSER TO HOME
Back-to-school options and home accessories aren’t abounding in the city of New Paris. A small town, New Paris is mostly known for its beautiful landscapes and tight-knit community. That same community is often faced with journeys up to 10 to 15 miles in a horse and buggy to purchase basic necessities. Local native, Eva Hochstetler, has made it her goal to change that for nearby families.
Hochstetler’s store, Genesis, recently opened in March of 2025 and, as the name implies, it’s been the start of a new beginning for Hochstetler, her family and others in the surrounding area. Now, New Paris families have a go-to place to purchase clothing and other items, and that place, is Genesis.
“New Paris is just a small town with people who care for each other,” she says. “I grew up in New Paris and I like working with and serving the people that I grew up with.”
A mother of three, Hochstetler never
Writer / Ashley Watters
figured herself for a business owner. In fact, she describes herself as just about the farthest thing from an entrepreneur. Her husband, Marion, keeps his days full as the owner of Laser Construction. With an already bustling household, opening a business seemed like a pipe dream. But the extended drive to the nearest fabric store was a good motivator to provide an option closer to home.
Still, she struggled with the decision. She found herself questioning whether she could manage a store alongside her daily duties as mom and wife. Despite the obstacles, Hochstetler knew she could solve the problem for New Paris and surrounding communities. So she opened the doors to Genesis.
“A lot of people don’t realize how much I struggled with the decision to open Genesis,” she says. “With a full house and construction business, we are busy. But there was a definite need in our area and
the feeling that God was guiding us in this direction never fully went away.”
Right now, Hochstetler is in full-on, backto-school mode. She has stocked Genesis with plenty of pants and dress fabrics so that customers can peruse multiple options for school attire. Her shelves are also filled with several types of knit
fabrics and, due to high demand, Genesis now offers printed fabric. To make sure every customer has the exact fit they want, families can purchase precise cuts of fabric. In particular, Hochstetler’s daughter loves a knit fabric called Swiss Dot, requesting a dress in every color as part of her school-year wardrobe.
In addition to fabrics, Genesis also sells a variety of items from community-area talent, including handmade wares, local finds, Amish goods, sewing notions, gifting services and Main Street Roasters Coffee, an artisan coffee shop out of Nappanee.
Other customer favorites include
inspirational canvases from Heartland Wholesale, baby items including apparel, toys and accessories, locally crafted soy candles, handmade goat’s milk bar soap, herbal tinctures, Bramble and Thyme freeze-dried fruits and candies, along with a selection of Sisel International products.
Hochstetler doesn’t plan to stop there.
She hopes that she can expand her selections in the near future as money and time allows, adding even more sewing notions and locally sourced wares to her offerings.
She is also taking steps to help support nearby communities and raise awareness for her store. Recently, she sponsored the lady’s version of the Home Extension at the Elkhart County Fair.
But mostly, Hochstetler takes pride in her ability to give families choices on
curating items for their home that will add local flavor and a personal touch.
You can find Genesis located at 69616 County Road 127 in New Paris. For more information, visit genesisfabric.com.
Hand-Crafted Interior & Exterior Weatherproof Cabinets & Furniture
Steven & Marlene Eash
Aspen Wood Grain
ONE CALL WATER
AMERICAN-MADE SYSTEMS, LOCAL SERVICE
Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Tony Straw
Married for 19 years, Bryan and Kaitlyn Stout have been working side by side since high school — building businesses together and raising two children, Kaily (6) and Waylon (5). In August of 2024, the couple took on a new venture, stepping into ownership of One Call Water.
The family lives in Millersburg, and like each business they’ve built, their customer-friendly, service-first outlook now guides this company — one they take great pride in.
“We’re the only locally owned water company, and we’re here to stay,” Bryan says.
Their vision is simple: growth through care — serving more households while keeping the personal touch that longtime customers value.
That philosophy extends fully beyond the storefront on State Road 13. While the shop offers equipment displays and bottled water and salt pickup, Bryan can discuss issues and offer possible solutions, but he always wants
to see the home and property in person, that way he knows exactly how to address the problem and can provide a fair estimate. He listens carefully, runs tests on-site, and recommends solutions tailored to each family.
“It’s a service call, not a sales call,” he says.
Basic in-home water testing is always free, and for homeowners who want expanded details, One Call can send samples for lab analysis.
Owners Kaitlyn Stout, Bryan Stout, Dale Troyer, Barry Sheets, & Rebekah Cooper
Hard water is a reality many people in this region know all too well. As groundwater seeps through layers of limestone and other mineral-rich rock, it absorbs hardness minerals that eventually flow into wells and city lines alike. Those minerals leave behind cloudy film on glasses, shorten the life of dishwashers and washing machines, and make soap less effective.
Bryan addresses this common frustration with American-made Hague systems, including the flagship WaterMax softener. The unit combines fine mesh resin with a built-in whole-house filter, regenerates efficiently, and helps protect plumbing from scale buildup. Hague iron filters tackle rust stains, while sulfur solutions clear up the familiar rotten-egg smell, bringing kitchens and bathrooms back to fresh.
Drinking water is another core focus of One Call Water. Households and businesses that prefer bottled water can choose fivegallon jugs for pickup or delivery, with an after-hours self-service option that regulars
appreciate. Offices looking for a streamlined solution often choose a Brio 4-stage RO dispenser, which connects directly to the building’s water line and delivers filtered hot or cold water without juggling bottles.
When families want the highest quality for everyday use, Bryan frequently recommends the Hague H3500 reverse osmosis system. Reverse osmosis pushes
water through multiple filtration stages to reduce contaminants and improve taste, giving families crisp, clean water they enjoy drinking. The unit sits neatly beneath the kitchen sink, connects to its own faucet, and can tie into the refrigerator line for better ice and chilled water. Filters are changed once a year during a scheduled service visit, so upkeep is simple.
Water Conditioning
Softeners remain at the heart of the business. One Call stocks high-purity salt blends, including formulas designed to fight iron. Customers looking to save can stretch their supply with Iron Out, sprinkled lightly between bags of salt. Deliveries are quick and reliable. In fact, the Stouts have recently added another truck to keep routes smooth and wait times short.
“We try to streamline efficiency,” Bryan adds. “Mike and Margaret Chesnut, the previous owners, did a great job, and there’s a lot of growth potential ahead.”
Training runs just as deep. Every employee — including the front desk team — completes ongoing lessons through Water Quality University, so anyone who answers the phone can discuss hardness levels, iron, sulfur and the equipment that solves them. The company also maintains an emergency line for urgent situations, because water problems don’t wait for business hours. Bryan takes special pride in his business’s
equipment and where it comes from. Hague builds its systems in Groveport, Ohio, a factory Bryan has toured himself.
“We’re not raising our prices because of tariffs,” he says. “It’s made right here.”
For the Stouts, American-made products mean reliability, accountability and fewer challenges such as part replacement that sometimes plagues imported items.
Customer Ethan Yoder shares his experience.
“Bryan and Kaitlyn are the most caring people I know,” he says. “They always put other people’s needs above their own.
When I reached out for a new softener, they were quick to get me an affordable price and fit my exact needs. They also made sure I knew all of the features and exactly what I was getting. The install was flawless, and I was back up and running in a couple of hours. I would recommend One Call Water to anybody. They are a hometown familyowned business that cares about you.”
Gary and Kim Sheets also speak highly of their decision to become customers of One Call Water.
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“We absolutely love our water softener and drinking water system from One Call Water,” they say. “Bryan and Kaitlyn Stout, along with their entire team, are incredibly professional and dedicated. With our previous provider, we frequently ran out of softener salt, but that’s a thing of the past with One Call Water. They ensure we’re always well-stocked and that our well water remains pristine. Switching to One Call Water was one of the best decisions we’ve made, and we couldn’t be happier with their service.”
The Stouts’ roots in the community run deep. Bryan served for eight years as a reserve police officer in Middlebury, an experience that shaped his calm, steady approach to problem-solving. The couple supports school events, chamber programs, local parades and causes close to home. When hurricanes struck in other states, they helped move water and supplies to families in need. Local ownership means
local accountability— and a company that understands the needs of people throughout Syracuse, Wawasee, Goshen, Middlebury, LaGrange, Shipshewana, Culver and the surrounding lake communities.
Through conversations with customers and potential clients, Bryan often hears questions about drinking water. He explains that most refrigerator filters are basic charcoal cartridges
— they help, but they’re not designed to handle everything. By connecting reverse osmosis water directly to the fridge, families can enjoy the same purified water at the dispenser and in their ice bins as they do at the sink. The difference shows up in taste, clarity, confidence, and in knowing their water is the safest and healthiest it can be. Cost is another frequent concern, and Bryan addresses it openly. He is confident that he
gives each customer a solid, fair price and works hard to be accommodating, cutting costs wherever possible. Reverse osmosis systems are priced with installation included, and maintenance is bundled into the annual service visit. Families considering a new
softener can take advantage of lease-to-own options that apply part of the monthly payment toward ownership. One Call also services nearly every brand, ensuring homeowners can count on consistent support whether they are upgrading or maintaining existing equipment.
In the shop, a cutaway softener shows how resin beads and brine cycles work together to remove hardness minerals. Bryan uses it to explain the difference between iron filters and iron-plus-sulfur setups, helping families see which option best matches their water tests. The display reflects his approach: technical knowledge presented clearly, so homeowners feel informed and confident.
It is certain that the lakes will always draw people for their beauty and recreation. Yet beneath that scenery lies water that can be hard on a home, causing scale on fixtures, shortening the life of appliances, and leaving families somewhat frustrated. One Call Water helps turn those frustrations into relief. Bryan
can test any water, whether it comes from a private well or a city supply, and provide solutions that improve taste, clarity and safety.
He offers bottled drinking water, reverse osmosis units, softeners, iron and sulfur filters, and reliable salt delivery services that benefit not only lake homeowners but anyone who wants better water at home.
Ready to find out what’s in your water and how to improve it?
The Stouts would love to help. “We’re here to stay,” Bryan says. So is their commitment to cleaner, healthier water for families across Northern Indiana.
One Call Water is located at 11875 N. State Road 13 in Syracuse. For more information, call 574-457-5006 or visit them online at onecallwater.com.
UNITED PANTHERS
NORTHWOOD UNIFIED FLAG FOOTBALL BRINGS ATHLETES TOGETHER
Write / Amy Lant-Wenger
There are many lessons in life that extend well beyond the walls of a classroom. Once the rigors of academics are complete for the day, students often seek out ways to connect with their peers through shared interests. From music to theater, and from art to athletics, there are many unique ways to find common ground and ultimately, lasting friendships.
And it takes a special group of people to come together in a well-designed way to become mentors, leaders and teammates all at the same time.
At NorthWood High School in Nappanee, the Unified Flag Football Team is exactly one such group. What makes this group “unified” in
both name and spirit? Just ask the new coach of the 2025 season, Rod Lone.
Lone, a longtime educator and coach of several sports at NorthWood, is exceptionally suited for, and equally excited by, the privilege of coaching a squad of multi-faceted athletes. The Unified team is made up of traditional
athletes who are paired with athletes who have special needs.
“It’s a great way to get these kids together to compete. Our team is very diverse,” Lone says. “I’ve been a football coach prior to this, and it was just great timing and a great opportunity.”
Prior to the start of the school year, Lone organized a parent-teacher call-out meeting to talk about the Unified Flag Football Team and outlined the goals and expectations for the new season. The support of the students was evident from the start, as a wealth of willing scholars stepped up, representing every sport from cross country to soccer.
Team participants enrolled in NorthWood’s Young Adult Program, which is tailored to those with a specific academic curriculum, can be a part of the team for four years, plus one additional year post-graduation.
Flag football is a non-contact sport, which makes it a safer option for those who want to
be immersed in the fundamentals of football. For example, there is stationary screen blocking, as opposed to moving blocks. There are also no punts, kickoffs or returns of fumbles or interceptions.
The competition brings forth its own level of tenacity and the fierceness of a true Panther athlete. It has been an inspirational venture for Lone, bolstered by the outpouring of
enthusiasm from the Wa-Nee community. Lone created a Facebook post just before the start of the school year noting that the program was facing a financial shortage, with zero dollars in the team budget. Within days, the goal of $1,000 was not only reached, but surpassed.
While this marks Lone’s first year of leading the Unified Flag Football Team, the 2025
Fax: 260-593-3676
season is the third consecutive year for the sport. The NorthWood team is IHSAA affiliated, which adds an extra element of reverence to the program. There are a number of returning athletes this season. Lone is eager to put his skill set into practice.
“I’ve worked in adaptive physical education before, but I’ve never had an opportunity to apply that to a sport until now,” he says.
When all is said and done, and the game is left on the field, it’s about so much more than wins and losses.
“Everyone is cheering everyone else on,” Lone says. “The kids are learning about leadership, working with their abilities and empathy, and the athletes are all smiles. They are just so happy to be there.”
To learn more about how to donate to the Unified Flag Football program at NorthWood High School, call 574-7734127. Funds raised for the team go toward incentives, team supplies, equipment and other necessities. Checks can be sent to NorthWood High School Athletics, with Unified Football in the memo line. All donations are tax deductible, and donors receive appropriate paperwork for tax purposes. Donations can also be dropped off at the school, located at 2101 North Main St., Nappanee, IN 46550.
NorthWood Unified Flag Football Roster –2025
Chloe Davidhizer – Senior
Naima Ghaffar – Senior
Tytus Noyes – Senior
Sophia Hershberger – Junior
Caiden Housley – Junior
Kylie Porter – Junior
Deven Miller – Sophomore
Bridget Parvu-Timmer – Sophomore
Tyson Frost – Freshman
Ashlyn Jaeger – Freshman
Elijah Mast – Freshman
Anthony Noyes – Freshman
Bryce Clark – Young Adult Program
Gavin Rider – Young Adult Program
Brooklyn Sherer – Young Adult Program
SOLID SOLUTIONS
ALAN AND SONS BRINGS SAFER, SMOOTHER SURFACES TO NORTHWEST INDIANA
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
If you’ve ever tripped on a raised sidewalk or steered your car over a bumpy driveway, you know how much uneven concrete can affect daily life. For some homeowners, it’s an inconvenience. For others — especially seniors — it’s a safety hazard that can lead to serious injury. In Northwest Indiana, Alan Whitworth and his familyrun business, Alan and Sons, have built a reputation for turning those hazards into smooth, safe surfaces, often in a single day.
Whitworth has been in the concrete raising and repair trade for more than two decades. His first experience came when he was just 20 years old, working a minimum-wage job and helping a friend with “mudjacking” — the process of lifting sunken concrete back to its proper level.
“I really liked the work,” Whitworth says. “I got to be outside, meet different people, and see the difference I could make. I stuck with it on and off for nearly 20 years.”
In 2020, when his job with another company ended during the COVID-19
shutdown, Whitworth knew it was time to build something of his own. He started Alan and Sons, named for his four boys: Tyler, Cameron, and 12-year-old twins Aiden and Logan.
“I wanted my kids to be involved,” he says. “We all pitch in.”
Two of them now work alongside him full time.
Alan and Sons specializes in concrete raising, concrete repair, crack and joint sealing, pressure washing and, when
necessary, full concrete replacement. The goal is always to save the existing concrete whenever possible.
“It’s less than a third of the cost of tearing out and replacing it,” Whitworth says. “It’s also more environmentally friendly.”
Sunken concrete is more than just an eyesore. It creates puddles, trip hazards and drainage problems. Alan sees it most often in driveways where the slab meets the garage, front steps, sidewalks near a home’s foundation and back patios. Settling usually happens, he explains, because builders don’t compact the soil well enough after backfilling around a foundation. Over time, the ground sinks — and the concrete sinks with it.
Whitworth’s method is different from many competitors. Instead of using polyurethane foam, he uses a natural clayand-sand mix reinforced with Portland cement.
“Our mud is not a chemical,” he says. “Once I stop pumping, it stops moving. With poly, the reaction keeps expanding, and you can’t always control it. Our way is better for the ground and for the concrete.”
It starts with a visit to the property. Alan examines the problem area and, if it can be fixed, gives an on-the-spot estimate. When the crew arrives, they bring a truck and a 16-foot trailer carrying a pump and mixer. They drill 1 1/4-inch holes in the affected slab, then pump in the mud mixture starting at the lowest point. The mud fills voids beneath the slab and gradually lifts the concrete back to its original position.
Once the raising is complete, they insert a foam plug to separate the repair material from the surface patch, then apply a sandcement patch that blends in with the rest of the slab. Whitworth says the finished result is hard to spot, and its appearance evens out even more after a few weeks. The work is washed down before the crew
leaves, and most jobs are finished within a few hours.
If cracks or joints are open, Alan and Sons seals them to keep water from causing future erosion. For jobs where the concrete is too damaged to save, they can handle full tear-out and replacement.
The difference between repair and replacement isn’t just in the price. Replacing concrete means permits, utility marking and heavy equipment in the yard. It can take days to finish and often leaves a mess behind. Raising concrete avoids all that, and the surface can usually be used the same day.
Whitworth has seen how this can make a real difference for homeowners. He recalls a recent job for an elderly couple who could no longer use their back door because the sidewalk had sunk about three inches.
“We raised it up so they could step out safely,” he says. “That probably kept them out of the hospital.”
Customer Tom Elder agrees. “Alan and Sons should be your first and always choice in the concrete corrections and solutions. Their family business can always be depended on, from moving concrete to its original position and the crack filling from Alan’s son Tyler. Tyler puts the leveling crack filler in as a true artist. As myself being a picky person to do work for, Alan and Sons has always treated me with professionalism and a fair price.”
Whitworth has also helped apartment complexes, commercial properties and city sidewalks eliminate trip hazards quickly, preventing accidents and reducing liability.
While concrete raising is the mainstay, Alan and Sons also helps with drainage issues. If a downspout is causing erosion, it
can be rerouted underground to a pop-up drain in the yard. They also level garage floors before epoxy coating and handle other flatwork repairs like patios and porches.
Whitworth stands behind every job with a three-year warranty.
“I don’t pack up until the customer is happy with what we’ve done,” he says. “I use the right material, and we do it right the first time.”
As longtime customer Steve Chadwick says, “Alan and Sons have done excellent work for us in the past. The prices were reasonable, and they left the work area clean and much safer.”
Working with family can be challenging, but Whitworth enjoys seeing his sons learn the trade. His oldest, Tyler, already has the skills to run a crew on his own.
“I could drop him off at a job and he’d do it start to finish,” Whitworth says. “Someday I’d like to hand the business over to him.”
The rest of the family supports in different ways. His wife, Sarah, manages the home front and works part time while raising the younger boys. Even the twins pitch in when needed.
Whitworth’s biggest tip is simple: don’t wait.
“If you see a problem, fix it as soon as you can,” he says. “It’s not going to get better on its own, and it’s usually cheaper to take care of it early.”
From his years in the field, he knows that a small crack or slope can quickly become a major repair — or a legal issue — if left alone. With his quick turnaround, most homeowners can have the work done without major disruption to their routine.
Whitworth hopes to expand services
in the coming years, possibly adding decorative concrete and epoxy flooring to the lineup. The heart of the business, however, will remain the same: raising, repairing and preserving concrete for homeowners and businesses across Northwest Indiana.
“I like talking with people and seeing different places every day,” Whitworth says.
RV REPAIR & MOBILE SERVICE
“It’s satisfying to take something that looks bad and make it look good again. We help people feel safer at home, and that means a lot to me.”
Alan and Sons is located at 9481 Sycamore Bend in Rochester. For more information, contact Alan Whitworth at 219-307-1211 or email him at alanwhitworth80@gmail.com.
DOWN
1. Fluid units
2. Unruly protest 3. Refuse heap 4. Terminate
5. Say correct way
6. Flash (of lightning) 9. Dingy
11. Drools
13. Negligent 15. Darts
16. Waits in line
Pinches (nose)
Once more
Fishing spool
Morays
BEAUTY IN THE ORDINARY
Writer / Miranda Medeiros
There’s a buzz in the air that stirs a feeling of excitement, a feeling of change. You can feel it all around you and see the subtle signs of it everywhere you look. The air holds a crisp edge, leaves start to fall to the ground providing a satisfying crunch with each step and when you look around you, the leaves have abandoned their summer green to form nature’s most beautiful mosaic piece in plumes of yellow, reds, and oranges.
The breeze carries scents of bonfires and the promise of dropping temperatures, fall, my dear reader, is here. Change can be scary for most people, uncomfortable because as humans we love routine and the safety of the known. However, the exchange of summer to fall is one change that most of us embrace
like an old friend. We look forward to this phenomenon every year and all the exciting promises it brings with it. Apple picking, pumpkin patches and trick or treating just to name a few.
What is it about this time of year that brings people together? Perhaps it is the reminder from the seasons to slow down and enjoy the mundane, to see the beauty in it. Enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning, for example. An act that is so simple but defines so many people’s mornings all over the world. What would happen if we stopped to take the time to romanticize this ordinary little act? Instead of just a regular coffee, you tried a new one, such as a gourmet roast with a seasonal twist. As its brewing notes of
buttered rum start to fill your home, a dash of nutmeg and maybe even a cinnamon stick. This beautiful aroma is flitting throughout your home setting the mood for a cozy fall day ahead, where the possibilities are endless.
This coffee is none other than our pumpkin spice flavored coffee available at the New Kitchen Store. Our coffee is roasted fresh with every order we make, vacuum sealed and sold as whole bean to preserve the freshness and flavor of each bag of coffee to ensure each cup you have isn’t just a cup of coffee, but an experience. By choosing a coffee that awakens your senses and makes you excited for that first sip, you’re choosing to elevate your daily routine.
It is my belief that by choosing to find joy in the simplest things, such as a cup of coffee, life will always seem fulfilling no matter the circumstances.
Concerning circumstances, sometimes October can be the start of a hard season for many people. Sometimes the holidays can serve as a reminder of people lost at a time when family gathers, and my heart goes out to anyone who relives the grief of loss this season. Perhaps someone you know experiences this, and you want to let them know they are seen and not alone. Grief aside, maybe you just want to make something for someone to let them know you’re thinking of them, or that you appreciate them. Whatever it is you are wanting to tell someone without so many words, we can help.
This October let a friend know they’re on your mind by having some seasonal fun and making them a “Boo Basket.” It can be as simple or as grand as you desire, it’s just a basket full of goodies you pick out for
WE ARE CURRENTLY BUYING / SELLING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:
• Gold Jewelry
• Sterling Silver Jewelry
• Platinum Jewelry
• Turquoise Jewelry
• Dental Gold
• Service Pins
• Pocket Watches
• Sterling Silver Flatware
• Dimes - 1964 & Before
• Quarters - 1964 & Before
• Halves - 1970 & Before
• Dollars - 1935 & Before
• Proof & Mint Sets
• Old Paper Money
• Old U.S. Coins
• Foreign Coins
• Gold & Silver Coins
• Gold & Silver Bullion
• Pennies - 1958 & Before
• Nickels - 1938 & Before
• Nickels - 1942-1945
someone with a fun fall twist to it, decorated and presented in a way to get a person in the autumn spirit.
Whether you want to put seasonal Nora Fleming, coffee, soup mixes, dish towels or yummy pumpkin butter in it, we’d love to assist you in picking out the perfect items. The changing season is a reminder that no matter our circumstances, it will pass. The good, the bad, it all passes. So, let’s take a moment to breathe deeply and take in the small moments with a new perspective. Be thoughtful of the past, grateful for the mundane moments in the present and excited for the possibilities of the future this new season ushers in.
For those coffee lovers out there, we have a loyalty program just for you! Buy ten bags and get your 11th bag free! We’re located at 1100 Roosevelt Rd. Walkerton IN, 46574. Stop in and sip on a free coffee sample while you shop! Contact us for any questions at nks@ newkitchenstore.com or 574-586-2745.
THE “WITCH” OF ROCHESTER
’Tis the season this month to turn our attention toward the “spookier” side of things, which often means the retelling of local or regional tales of ghosts, haunted spaces or other things that go bump in the night. But our story this time around is a bit different: that of an alleged “witch” literally asked to leave the Lakes-area town of Rochester more than 80 years ago.
Irene Ray, her husband Charles and their daughter IIoe moved to the Fulton County town in 1932 amid financial difficulties that led them to apply for welfare support, though many families faced similar struggles during those years of the Great Depression.
Irene’s conflicts with members of the Rochester community, however, went well beyond financial woes. Perhaps contributing to the matter was the supposition that Irene — who had long, black hair — was of Native American descent. The Logansport Pharos-Tribune in 1938 described her as “an Indian of the Algonquian Tribe,” while a Lafayette newspaper described her as “Miami Indian” and the “wife of a white farmer and WPA worker,” though she denied certainty of that claim. She also denied the many accusations hurled at her over the six years following her family’s arrival in the town.
Writer / Jeff Kenney
Word spread that Irene used voodoo dolls and spells against those she disliked, and townspeople began to call her a “modern-day witch” who cursed locals with everything from fires and floods to
sleep problems and stomach disorders. The Logansport paper said that “strange stories invented by superstitious residents of Rochester” claimed “her favorite means of casting spells was to
obtain hair combings from someone she disliked, place them in a bottle with cat hairs and vinegar, and then bury the bottle. Persons so hexed were supposed to wither and eventually die unless she
relieved the spell.”
Ray was accused of cursing one farmer’s potato field into non-productivity after he asked her to stop crossing his property as a shortcut to the grocery store.
Things escalated when Irene Ray was blamed for the sudden illness of 25-yearold Georgia Knight Conrad, who suffered from “leakage of the heart.” In this case, one of Ray’s “spell jars” was blamed.
Fear and anger directed at the Ray family reached hysteria in the spring of 1937, when Rochester Chief of Police Clay Sheets died of a heart attack after removing Irene’s 6-year-old daughter from the home due to problems with the “morals of the household.” Rumors abounded that Irene had angrily told the chief he would pay for what he’d done. Not long after, Sheets was dead — though of natural causes.
As demands for action against Ray increased, State Attorney Murray McCarty was asked to press charges against her, but he dismissed the request, noting that witchcraft wasn’t illegal in Indiana in 1938. One paper claimed McCarty even combed records of the Salem witch trials in Massachusetts as part of his investigation.
By May 1938, new police chief Paul Whitcomb was prepared to arrest the 60-year-old Ray, claiming she told him, “I killed one Rochester officer through a spell and I have another so he can’t eat.”
Whitcomb and State Patrolman Estil Bemenderfer, according to the Logansport Pharos-Tribune, investigated the Ray family’s prior stint in Plymouth, where they learned the Rays had also been ordered out of town. The rumor was that Irene conspired with a male “wizard” in Plymouth when especially difficult curses were needed.
Irene Ray was booked on vagrancy charges May 11, 1938, but released the next day on condition that she leave Rochester if charges were dropped.
“The whole thing is wrong, as I can’t do anything like that,” Ray told a Columbus, Indiana, reporter. She added, “If my accusers got right with God they won’t need to put such things on me, as I am living for the Lord and I intend to until I die. I won’t do the work of the devil because witchcraft is the handiwork of Satan. I feel sorry for my accusers because they cannot think any other way.”
The incident made national headlines in newspapers and magazines, and not everyone was sympathetic to the concerns of Rochester townspeople. Reader Carrie M. Styer of Indianapolis responded to an Indianapolis Star report with a letter to the editor that ended with: “But poor Mrs. Ray — arrested and forced to move for ‘hexing.’ No wonder
The
of town, settling east of Rochester on today’s
On Oct. 25, 1938, just months after Irene Ray’s arrest, headlines around the state reported that “Rochester’s ‘Hex
Woman’” had filed for divorce from her husband, Louis (alternately reported as Lewis) Ray, alleging he was verbally and physically abusive and “failed to provide” for her. Reports said the two separated a few days prior to the divorce suit but reconciled within hours.
Days later, on Nov. 4, 1938, Irene and Louis were struck by a car while walking on State Road 14 between their home and the One Horse Grocery. It was about 5:15 p.m. and pouring rain. The car, driven by May Kern, a local bookkeeper, struck Irene after she swerved to avoid hitting a child on a bicycle.
Ray was killed instantly, suffering a fractured neck, severed limb and other injuries. Her husband sustained a fractured skull and was rushed to nearby Woodlawn Hospital. He survived, though information about his later life is scarce.
The Knight family of Rochester later
said their daughter’s heart condition improved after Irene Ray left town, but Georgia died of the same condition two years later.
As for Irene Tedrow Ray, she was laid to rest in Bremen Municipal
Cemetery. And even in the nearly 90 years since her passing, stories of her alleged “witchcraft” continue online and elsewhere, even if they may have begun as products of superstition and misunderstanding.
ARMED WITH PURPOSE
NAPPANEE COUPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE FIRST AT JR FIREARMS
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
At a business that sells primarily powerful firearms, there is a calm undercurrent of compassion that drives JR Firearms owners Rachel and Jack Penry. Following robust careers in other industries, the Penrys chose to open a communityfocused business with purpose in Nappanee.
With a tagline like theirs, it’s no surprise this is a business with a story: “A full-line, woman-owned firearm store in a classically American downtown in northern Indiana.”
Yes, Rachel Penry has been shooting guns her whole life. Together, the husband-wife owner duo share a passion for the people of Nappanee on every level of running their business.
A carefully curated collection of firearms, ammunition and gear fills the retail store of JR Firearms. All in-stock items reflect the requests of customers, including pistols, rifles, revolvers, shotguns and suppressors, as well as ammunition and shooting accessories such as holsters and belts. The focus is hunting, recreation and protection. The Penrys opened their doors more than two years ago with a priority of answering the community’s need for a full-service firearms store.
The business also issues hunting and fishing licenses, with all sporting licenses available in the state of Indiana offered on-site. They can also complete in-store fingerprinting using Bayometric’s ATF fingerprint scan.
For financially savvy customers, the retail store stocks a growing number of items, while the online store offers an
endless selection of products from the most respected brands. Customers who purchase online and choose to ship directly to JR Firearms pay no shipping or transfer fees.
The owners admit men make up the majority of customers, but note a growing number of women seek firearms for protection and sport, often as first-time buyers.
“Which handgun should I get?” is a common question from these customers. The Penrys reassuringly answer, “We don’t know. Let’s try out some options to see what feels right as you ‘rack it’ [pull back the slide] and meets your hand dexterity to ensure you’ll want to carry it.”
They know the value of providing customized service to women and first-time customers, because “if we treat them right, they will let others know.”
JR Firearms has been a member of the Nappanee Chamber of Commerce since opening, participating in Visit Nappanee and Friday Fest, and serving as Stage Sponsor for one of the bands in a recent Apple Festival. Another standout since the business’ beginning is staff member Trevor Mast, who has been an asset to the Penrys during busy weekends.
The company also partners with community events, including VFW raffles, and has sponsored local Little League teams and the trap team at Northwood High School, where Rachel Penry attended as a native of Nappanee.
The Conservation Club of Nappanee is another strong partner of JR Firearms, dedicated to preserving local natural resources and supporting the shooting sports. Though they don’t currently partner with adventure travel organizations such as hunt clubs and fishing excursions, the owners find the prospect intriguing.
Partnerships also extend to working with the Nappanee Police Department to offer firearms safety courses. JR Firearms doesn’t have the space to host the courses, so they work with the department to schedule classes as timing permits.
Looking ahead, the Penrys remind customers that on Jan. 1, 2026, a change in federal law will eliminate the suppressor fee. This does not remove suppressors from the Firearms Act, it
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simply removes the fee. They recommend customers wanting to buy a suppressor do so now, so the store can set the firearm aside. As January 2026 approaches, they predict demand will rise and customers may struggle to find the exact suppressor they want. Contact the store directly to process an order, and they will handle all the paperwork in-house.
The Penrys plan to expand merchandise to include more Core Essentials, military and high-end apparel and gear, as well as Byrna pistols and pepperball items. All of these additions reflect the
owners’ response to customer requests.
In addition to radio advertising and features in the Goshen News, JR Firearms has a Twitter presence and Gab Social account. New email marketing campaigns are also forthcoming. For questions and more information, visit jrfirearms.com.
JR Firearms is located at 105 E. Lincoln St. in Nappanee. For more information, email sales@jrfirearms.com or call 574-336-0048.
Benefits of Concrete Borders
• Our borders are extruded with a steel cable reinforcement as “one solid” continuous piece of concrete
• Gives your landscape beds an attractive and durable edge
• Provides an effective root barrier that prevents grass from growing into your beds
• The height of concrete borders helps to keep mulch/stone in your beds and out of your lawn
Hours
Tuesday-Thursday 10AM-6PM
HALLOWEEN POPCORN BALLS
INGREDIENTS
• 12 cups popped popcorn (can used bagged pre-popped)
• 5 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• ¾ cup light corn syrup
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Halloween Candy Decorations
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Line your counter top with parchment paper or wax paper. In an extra-large bowl, toss together 4 cups of marshmallows and popcorn. Set aside.
2. In a medium-sized pot over medium-high heat, combine corn syrup, butter, water, powdered sugar, and remaining 1 cup marshmallows.
3. Heat and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and quickly whisk in vanilla and salt.
4. Pour mixture over popcorn and marshmallow mixture, carefully stirring to coat each popcorn kernel.
5.Let cool for a few minutes, until you are able to touch it without burning your fingers, and then work quickly to shape popcorn into 3-4 inch balls before they cool. Note: Buttering your hands/fingers will keep popcorn mixture from sticking to you too much.
6.Sprinkle Halloween Candy Decorations over slightly warm popcorn balls.
7. Wrap popcorn balls in cellophane or plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
BUILT TO LAST
MICHIANA ICF SUPPLY BRINGS SUPERFORM BLOCKS TO LOCAL BUILDERS
Writer / Meredith Baker
For Orla Bontrager, construction is more than concrete and lumber, it’s about building smarter, stronger and with the future in mind.
Michiana ICF Supply, located on U.S. Highway 20 in LaGrange, has spent the past several years installing Superform blocks, and Orla has only recently started introducing area builders and homeowners to an alternative to traditional wood framing: insulated concrete forms, or ICF.
ICF may sound like a technical term, however, Bontrager breaks it down in simple terms.
“Think of it like a giant Lego block made of foam, with reinforced concrete poured into the center,” he explains. “It’s solid, and once we had the opportunity to install Superform blocks, we loved them.”
Michiana ICF Supply now supplies Superform blocks to regional builders, homeowners and contractors, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive so far.
“We haven’t gotten any negative feedback,” Bontrager says. “We’re not selling to every builder, but those who have used the product really like it.”
EFFICIENCY AND STRENGTH
One of the biggest advantages of building with ICF is its energy performance. By sandwiching concrete between layers of insulated foam, the walls regulate indoor temperature year-round, leading to significant savings on heating and cooling.
“It acts as a conductor from the ground temperature, regardless of the season,” Bontrager says. “The core of your walls is regulated yearround. From an energy standpoint, it’s hard to beat.”
Beyond efficiency, ICF delivers peace of mind. With concrete at its core, an ICF home offers protection against severe weather.
“It can stand up to 250 miles per hour winds,” Bontrager says. “From a tornado standpoint, it acts as a storm shelter. That’s a huge advantage for families here in the Midwest.”
These blocks are not only fire-resistant but also provide excellent noise reduction, making them appealing for both safety and comfort.
COMPARED TO TRADITIONAL WOOD FRAMING
Traditional wood framing has long been the standard in residential construction. But as Bontrager points out, it isn’t always as effective as it seems.
“To meet your R-value specs, which refers to a material’s capacity to
resist heat flow, traditional framing is not a true R-value,” he says. “It doesn’t transfer from hot to cold in the same way.”
While ICF construction can come with a slightly higher upfront cost, Bontrager emphasizes that the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial expense.
“It’s an investment that pays for itself,” he says. “With energy efficiency, disaster resilience and the durability of the product, you’re looking at lower costs and higher value over the lifetime of the home.”
INSTALLATION IS ANOTHER ADVANTAGE.
“The Superform blocks are very DIY-friendly,” Bontrager says. “The manufacturer provides plans and schematics, so even homeowners who want to take on their own projects have the resources to do it.”
Educating the Market
Bontrager sees education as the next big step for Michiana ICF
Supply. Although ICF has been used in North America for decades, many consumers in northern Indiana and regional areas are still unfamiliar with the product.
“There’s a lot of interest in ICF, but little knowledge about it among the general public,” Bontrager says. “Our goal is to increase consumer awareness and be trusted experts you can partner with for answers.” Bontrager and his team plan to host future seminars for contractors and anyone interested in learning about the benefits of ICF.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
When asked about who makes the best candidate for building with ICF, Bontrager quickly points to forward-thinkers.
“It’s generally people who like to plan years ahead,” he says. “They’re budget-conscious, they put a lot of thought into their build, and they want the best value that lasts.”
As ICF gains traction, Bontrager hopes more local families will experience its benefits firsthand. With Michiana ICF Supply now firmly established as a regional distributor for Superform blocks, Bontrager believes the timing is right for broader adoption.
“We’re here to help you take advantage of this amazing product, and to build homes that are not only strong and efficient but designed to last for generations,” he says.
Michiana Builders, LLC is located at 950 U.S. 20, LaGrange, Ind. For general inquiries, call 260-667-8411.
CHAINSAW MASTERPIECES
INDIANA CARVINGS FOUNDER BRINGS WOOD TO LIFE WITH BOLD, CUSTOM CREATIONS
Writer / Bailey Goldstein
Indiana Carvings founder Chaz Chiafos discovered his naturalborn talent for wood carving during an evening kickback with a friend in 2019.
“Just hanging out with a buddy one night,” he says. “I had literally never thought about chainsaw art before and the night was winding down. It was probably midnight. We saw a picture of a chainsaw art eagle and decided that night we would try chainsaw art. We pulled in a couple logs with a mini excavator and we just started carving until 4 o’clock that morning.”
After a year of self-taught experimentation, Chiafos made his debut on the competitive scene.
“I began to branch out, go to competitions, figure out what kind of tools I would need ’cause I only had one chainsaw, a die grinder, and that was it,” he says. “I learned a lot by going to these competitions and shows and talking with a lot of other carvers.”
After tree companies dump logs in his field, Chiafos uses a skid loader to create stacks of logs that he selects from based on the height of his designs. Repetition and aptitude have turned him into a bona fide speed carver.
“I’m pretty fast. I can have a life-size perched eagle done in a couple of hours,” he says. “I can do a 6- to 8-foot soaring eagle — that’s detail on the front and the back, wings open, head and
Shortly after launching an Indiana Carvings Facebook page, his follower base grew to 2,500 members. However, it was Gen Z’s short-form video platform where Chiafos found viral success.
“I started a TikTok,” he says. “In the first year, I got to 5,000 followers. Right about year one, I had a video just blow up. I got up to 60,000 followers, and then I’m close to 150,000 followers. I’m really not even into Facebook or TikTok, but definitely the social media has helped me spread and branch out.”
His TikTok page has garnered 1.8 million
likes, helping Chiafos book on-site commissions in Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Arizona, Utah, California and New York.
“The first viral video was a 12-foot soaring eagle,” he says. “It had talons, the feet sticking out. It was pretty cool. I ended up taking that one out to Montana.”
Before his career as an artist, Chiafos owned a hardscape company installing outdoor kitchens, paver patios and retaining walls. Although his work involved some designing, he says his artistic experience was limited.
“People will be like, ‘Yeah but remember in high school, you would always draw.’ I would do my name in bubble letters and just make shadowing behind them,” he says. “It was pretty standard fourth grade, elementary, introductory-level stuff.”
Ditching a pencil for a chainsaw, Chiafos found his artistic niche in the form of white pine, oak and maple sculptures.
His portfolio includes an 8-foot-tall octopus with sprawling tentacles, fantastical dragons straight from the pages of a storybook, and a bear bench for Game Masters sporting goods store in Quincy, Illinois.
“I’ve turned into an eagle nut. I just love making eagles,” he says. “That’s my top number one.”
Chiafos eventually sold his hardscape company to focus on wood carving after a frightening medical discovery.
“The final decision was I went to the chiropractor and found out T1 through 5 were all fractured, just completely shattered,” he says. “That’s why I always had back problems. So after finding that out, I went into chainsaw art full time. That is way less wear and tear on the body.”
With half-down deposits, Chiafos’ commissions run the gamut from humble sea turtles to 20-foot-tall, 6-foot-wide behemoth masterworks.
“I travel anywhere and do anything,” he says. “I’ve done life-size
motorcycles, half-scale Polaris Slingshots where you can open the door and sit in them, motorcycles with turning wheels,” he says. “So, it’s all extremely custom.”
His inspiration is simple.
“My children of course,” says the father of six. “If I don’t carve, we starve.”
Indiana Carvings is located in Monticello. You can call 574870-1249 or message Chiafos online for a commission and free quote at facebook.com/indianacarvings.
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Stephen Borkholder is the general manager of Midwest Coating LLC in Shipshewana.
The company had been in existence for seven years before the owners purchased it, and for Borkholder, it was starting from scratch—learning everything he could about the exterior weatherproofing of garages and basements.
It wasn’t a stretch to see the importance of the service, however. Northern Indiana weather can be unpredictable and sometimes harsh with snow, ice or heavy rain, prompting homeowners to look for ways to protect their investment.
There are two main services Midwest Coating provides.
The first is insulating exterior foundation walls in both existing homes and new construction.
“If the basement walls are not insulated, you’ll likely have condensation on the inside as the cold weather outside and the heat inside will create it. That often leads to mold, and it’s not energy efficient,” Borkholder says.
Wet or damp basements can also lead to foundation damage and poor indoor air quality.
The crew installs foam insulation on the exterior of the basement and then covers it with a stucco coating to prevent the
sun’s UV rays from damaging or eating away at the foam.
“We can do basements, crawl spaces and garages, and the process increases your resale value in the long run,” Borkholder adds. “It’s a positive when buyers know the chance of mold is reduced and the homeowner has invested in protecting the home.”
He says an average job takes approximately two workdays to
install the insulation board and coating.
The second service offered is waterproofing of new construction basement walls. They can also install perimeter tile where needed.
The waterproofing services come with a 10-year warranty. Ultimately, everyone at Midwest Coating LLC wants to see a
high-quality job and satisfied customers.
“The reward is when you’ve helped someone with a highquality service and they are happy with it,” Borkholder says. “I really enjoy meeting with customers and finding solutions to the weatherproofing needed. We often see some surprises and have to adjust the plan to get the job done.”
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call Borkholder at 574-501-8249. This number cannot receive text messages, so make sure to give him a call.
THE LAKES MAGAZINE EAST & WEST EDITIONS ARE MAILED FREE WITHOUT SUBSCRIPTION MONTHLY/ 12 TIMES A YEAR, TO VALUED HOMEOWNERS AND BUSINESS OWNERS WITHIN EACH TERRITORY. MAGAZINES CAN ALSO BE FOUND MONTHLY ON RACKS AND SHELVES AT OVER 150 LOCAL LOCATIONS. WE ALSO PROMOTE THE LAKES MAGAZINE AND OUR ADVERTISERS DIGITALLY ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES AND WEBSITE.
LIONS KARATE IS BUILDING CHAMPIONS & ROLE MODELS
Writer / Amy Beaucham
When Steve Hanford was 7 years old, his mother signed him up for a martial arts program at the local youth center in Syracuse. As a stayat-home mom determined to keep her children active, she enrolled him in almost every sport and activity available — basketball, baseball, soccer, skateboarding, chess and more. While he enjoyed many of them, martial arts quickly became his favorite.
“I had an older sister who was much bigger than me, and she beat me up a lot,” Hanford says with a laugh. “I wanted to be able to defend myself when I needed to, to feel like I wasn’t powerless.”
Karate gave him that sense of empowerment. At the same time, he realized something else — unlike other sports, he wouldn’t be compared side by side with teammates or have to wait for playing time. Even when he was good, whether he played or sat on the bench depended on how much his abilities could contribute to the team’s chances of winning. In karate, his growth depended entirely on his own dedication.
“When I started karate, it just clicked,” he says. “I liked that it was up to me and my effort. If I practiced hard, I got to test. If I didn’t, I didn’t.”
Testing was what hooked him.
“You show your forms, your techniques, your discipline, and then you move forward,” he says. “Nobody else can do it for you. It’s not about how many minutes you get on the court. It’s about what you’ve put in yourself.”
That direct link between responsibility and achievement shaped his respect for martial arts and the standards he has carried ever since. Over time, that foundation led him to see teaching as a calling, and eventually, the opportunity to lead a school of his own.
Hanford trained under instructor Ken Gillenwater, who opened Lions Karate in 1986. Over the years, he earned multiple black belts - 7th degree in Taekwondo, 5th degree in Kobudo, and 3rd degree in Aiki Jutsu. By the age of 29, he was teaching full-time. When Gillenwater was diagnosed with ALS, he entrusted the school to Hanford.
“He said, ‘You want to live out your childhood dream and take over?’” Hanford recalls. “It came to fruition, but in a sad way. From that moment, I knew I wanted to honor him in everything I did with the school.”
Today, Hanford leads Lions Karate with respect for tradition and an eye toward growth.
“If Mr. Gillenwater walked into a black belt test today, he would recognize everything he taught,” Hanford says. “We’ve added a few things, but the core curriculum has never changed.”
He smiles as he remembers the early days, when plaid wallpaper
covered the walls and buckets caught rainwater from the ceiling.
“My instructor used to say, ‘If you spend money to redo the ceiling, is that going to bring in new students?’ He wouldn’t even use the air conditioner. I’ve updated the school, but the foundation — the values, the discipline, the way we teach — has stayed the same.”
At Lions Karate, students train in three arts. Taekwondo focuses on kicking and punching. Kobudo teaches traditional weapons such as the bo staff, nunchaku, and sword. Aiki Jutsu covers joint locks and throws, but is reserved for teens and adults for safety reasons. Hanford often combines Taekwondo and Kobudo in classes, while Aiki Jutsu maintains its own schedule.
Students begin as early as age 3 in “Little Lions,” which emphasizes balance, coordination and focus. Structured training starts at 5, with classes divided by age and skill level. Hanford teaches everyone — from children to seniors in their 70s. One longtime student credits karate with helping reduce his chiropractor visits from three times a week to none. Another joked that without class, she would “just be a couch potato,” but the fitness built into every lesson keeps her moving.
Discipline is central, but Hanford’s approach balances accountability with encouragement.
“Sometimes we take a belt away and hang it on the wall,” he says. “Every class sees it, and we say whose belt it is and why. It’s a reminder — don’t be like Timmy. He lost his belt for fighting in school or for bad grades.”
Hanford clarifies that by “fighting in school,” he means starting fights or reacting impulsively, which goes against everything karate teaches.
On the other hand, standing up for yourself in the right way is different.
“Self-defense is taught as a last resort, when no other choice is available,” Hanford says.
Students learn first to stay calm, speak up, and walk away if they can. But if a bully refuses to back down and there is no other option, to me, defending yourself is the right choice. Students who handle those moments with courage may even find a Dairy Queen coupon tucked into their hand.
“Suspension from school is never the goal and can carry real consequences,” Hanford acknowledges. “But if a student is disciplined for defending themselves appropriately, they deserve a little ice cream. It shows courage and initiative.”
Parents notice the difference. Kristin Jean shares, “My son’s confidence and self-discipline continue to grow through the principles and hard work taught at Lions Karate. He loves the challenges of his karate forms and the fun experiences, such as karate camp.”
Community is just as important as discipline. Lions Karate hosts tournaments, summer camps, and an annual Christmas party where every child takes home a trophy. Two barbecues each summer raise funds for student outings. This year, Hanford rented an entire water park in Columbia City for 117 students and their families.
“We paid for everyone— siblings, parents, all of them. It’s about giving back,” he says.
The school also organizes roller skating nights, laser tag trips and a golf outing that funds prizes and events.
Women’s self-defense classes are another way Hanford extends his teaching. He offers free sessions three times a year at the local library and holds seminars for businesses, schools and churches.
“Women need to know self-defense, even if it’s just the basics,” he says. “I hope they never have to use it, but confidence makes all the difference.”
His teaching extends to special needs students as well. Hanford has worked with special needs adults in Fort Wayne for years and guided autistic students to advanced ranks.
“It’s about patience and meeting individual needs,” he says.
Supporting him is a dedicated team that includes longtime assistant Joe Robinson and instructor Denyel Bond, who runs classes in Columbia City and co-leads homeschool programs. Junior Black Belts are also mentored into leadership roles.
“Some are natural teachers, others are role models,” Hanford says. “We give them opportunities to lead, and it builds skills they’ll carry into life.”
For Hanford, the true reward is in the transformation.
“When students realize it’s not just a hobby anymore and it starts to
become a lifestyle - that’s the lightbulb moment,” he says. Candy Colbert agrees.
“Lions Karate has continually provided excellent and consistent instruction for my daughter throughout the last eight years,” Colbert says. “I appreciate Mr. Hanford’s investment in her training and understanding of her all-around well-being.”
Looking ahead, Hanford envisions adding locations in Warsaw or North Manchester while raising his own two sons with his wife, Kathleen. His 9-year-old, Trevor, trains regularly, while his 5-year-old, Carson, is still deciding between karate and other sports.
“We just want him to find something he loves and is passionate about,” Hanford says.
From the youngest Little Lions to the most advanced Black Belts, Lions Karate is more than a martial arts school. It is a place where students find confidence, discipline, and community — and lessons that extend far beyond the mat. For Hanford, it is the continuation of a love for karate that began when he was a 7-year-old stepping onto the mat for the very first time.
Lions Karate is located at 126 S. Main St. in North Webster. For more information, call 574-527-5765 or email Steve@lionskarate.com.
www.simpleestatedgifts.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025
OCTOBER
Submit Your Events!
Elkhart County
OCTOBER 4
Fall Festival — Nappanee Pumpkin painting, hayrides, train rides, face painting, games, bonfires, food vendors and more fall fun surprises.
OCTOBER 11
Artisan Market at Prairie Camp — Goshen
Unique, handmade, vintage and homegrown goods in a beautiful setting. Food trucks, a playground, free hayrides and more!
Island Park Trunk or Treat — Elkhart
Bring the kids in costume for a fun-filled afternoon of candy, creatively decorated trunks and festive Halloween activities in a safe, family-friendly setting.
OCTOBER 24-25
Halloween Campfire & Hayrides — Ox Bow Park, Goshen
Experience exciting craft and activity stations, delicious food trucks, spooky décor, face painting a hayride in the dark and more.
OCTOBER 31
Trick or Treat at the Fairgrounds — Goshen
Enjoy treats and fun where you simply show up dressed in your favorite Halloween attire.
Kosciusko County
OCTOBER 4
Fall Harvest Festival — Syracuse
Enjoy fall-themed activities including pumpkin decorating, an obstacle course, games, a petting zoo, food vendors and more.
OCTOBER 10
Benefit at the Barn — Syracuse
An evening filled with live music, live/silent auctions, hors d’oeuvres, limited-edition gifts and live entertainment.
OCTOBER 25
NWCC Haunted Halls — North Webster
Come walk the haunted halls filled with decorated booths, candy giveaways and Halloween magic all in a safe and festive environment.
Noble County
OCTOBER 4-5
Apple Festival of Kendallville
Bring the family for all things apple where crafters will sell their wares and more than 30 unique food vendors provide treats.
OCTOBER 11
Kendallville’s Fright Night 2025
Spook-tastic happenings including vendors, food trucks, entertainment, contests, games and prizes at this free event.
Owl-O-Ween — Rome City
Trick or Treat as you encounter sneaky scavengers and historical hijinks. Get in the real spirit of Halloween and come dressed in costume.
St. Joseph County
OCTOBER 11
Fall Festival Trunk or Treat — Mishawaka East End Baseball Park
A great family-friendly variety of food trucks, games and contests, vendor booths, a rummage sale and more.
OCTOBER 17
Boos & Brews — Ironworks Plaza, Mishawaka Multiple breweries in attendance with food trucks, costume contest and more!
OCTOBER 17-19, 24-26
Zoo Boo — Potawatomi Zoo, South Bend
Enjoy trick or treating with vendor partners, see the animals, pumpkins, lights and decorations and ride the haunted train.
OCTOBER 19
Halloween in the Park — Lakeville Come join the fall fun with trick or treating, food trucks and a chili cook-off.
Shipshewana/ LaGrange County
OCTOBER 1-4
Corn School — LaGrange
A week-long celebration with carnival rides, games, talent shows, a parade and food vendors.
OCTOBER 2-4
Fall Crafters Fair — The MEC, Shipshewana
This is a tribute to the crafting and old-fashioned culture surrounding the Shipshewana countryside. You’ll find artisans, vintage sellers, handmade items, personalized gifts and more.
OCTOBER 25
Ship-Chic Fall Craft & Vintage Show — Trading Place Auction, Shipshewana
Vendors selling vintage items, home décor, crafts, clothing jewelry and much more. Food will be available for purchase.
