The Lakes West July Magazine July 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

PUBLISHERS JOHN

MANDI LEWANDOWSKI john@townepost.com mandi@townepost.com (574) 249-9217

PHYLLIS WILLE

JESSICA WHITEHEAD TOWNE

BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599

(317) 810-0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

MANAGING

WHERE MEMORIES SET SAIL

Writer / Amy Beaucham

This year’s Bass Lake Festival returns July 25–27, promising

another packed weekend of family-friendly fun, community pride and the kind of spirit that has grown over generations. “It’s deeply rooted in the people who live here,” says Tabitha Dillner, vice president of the festival board. “But everyone is welcome. We love seeing new faces discover what makes this place so special. The festival is about celebrating where we live and who we are.”

The tradition began in the 1970s, when local business owners joined forces to create summer events that would draw people to the lake and support hometown shops and eateries. By the 1980s, the festival had become a nonprofit, powered entirely by volunteers. Today, local businesses and organizations continue to play a central role, from school groups raising funds for prom to the historical society offering family activities during the event.

Food is not the main attraction—the spotlight is on experiences. “We’re more activity-driven,” Dillner explains. To avoid repetition among vendors and to encourage patrons to visit local restaurants, the festival limits food booths and ensures that each offers something unique. Some restaurants even bring their own food trucks to participate, while still welcoming guests to dine in as well.

Signature events include the classic car show, the Miss Bass Lake pageants and the annual fishing tournament affectionately known as the Blastic Blast. The Lions Club hosts a much-loved Sunday

Metal & Shingle Roofing

breakfast, while the beer garden features live music throughout the weekend. Children enjoy bounce houses, magic shows, an obstaclecourse fun run and the ever-popular ice cream eating contest, where the fastest eater takes the crown.

One of the most anticipated events is the cardboard boat race. While there’s a children’s division, many boats are large enough to carry adults and are decorated with clever, often comical themes. Some teams even arrive in full costume. Boats are judged not only on speed but on creativity and determination. Spectators line the beach and the road, cheering as brave crews paddle across the lake—or sink trying. Dillner remembers a boy from an early race whose boat began to go under. “He just kept scooping out water and pushing forward,” she recalls. “He finished the race, and I never forgot him.” Years later, she learned the boy was Devon, the grandson of a neighbor. Now living in Germany, he still returns for the festival. “All that time I’d been telling the story,” Dillner says, “and now I know who he is.”

Stories like that are part of what makes the festival so meaningful. “You see children grow up here,” Dillner says. “One year they’re setting napkins on tables, then suddenly they’re running a 5K or competing in volleyball. It’s full circle.”

Another hands-on tradition is the “Cover Your Bass” decorating

contest. Participants paint and embellish wooden fish and sailboats, which are then displayed throughout the area during festival weekend. The vibrant designs add charm and offer memorable photo opportunities.

Then there’s the quirky crowd-pleaser: the goat drop. A live goat is placed in a penned area marked with numbered squares. Participants guess where the goat will do its business. The lucky winner receives a prize, and proceeds help fund the fireworks display, which lights up the sky on Saturday night.

Behind the scenes, the entire community comes together. Local businesses donate funds, sponsor entertainment, host musicians and share equipment or space. “Some help with street safety, others store the fireworks barges,” Dillner says. “We rely on that generosity.”

Planning begins in January and intensifies as summer nears. “Many of our board members are part-time residents,” Dillner explains. “We make it work through texts and calls until we can meet in person.”

Festival merchandise is sold at all the Bass Lake businesses. Items are also available on-site during the weekend. This year’s T-shirt was designed by the committee, though in some past years, the

design has been chosen through a public vote. Proceeds from merchandise help cover festival costs, including the Saturday night fireworks display and the Sunday parade, which brings the weekend to a close.

Vendor spots at the Bass Lake Market are limited and thoughtfully curated. Only handmade or homegrown items are accepted. Vendors keep 100% of their sales after paying a single application fee. Food vendors are carefully chosen to avoid repeating similar offerings. Booths are spaced out to prevent clustering and to help guide visitors toward nearby restaurants.

Each volunteer hopes festivalgoers walk away with more than a souvenir. “We want people to take home a memory,” Dillner says. “A tie to this lake. A tradition they’ll want to return to, year after year.”

That’s the heart of the Bass Lake Festival—something remembered, something passed on, something renewed each summer. “Our hope,” Dillner adds, “is that today’s children are the ones running it tomorrow.”

For updates, vendor applications or to get involved, visit basslakefest.com or follow @BassLakeFestival on Facebook.

Mark Miller

REBUILDING POWER

Writer / Bailey Goldstein

Leland Miller is the force behind Innovative Power LLC, a business that restores Indiana’s dead batteries to working order.

“Our primary rebuilds are tool battery lines — mainly DeWalt, Milwaukee and Craftsman,” Miller said. “Pretty much any lithium battery packs for tools or your nickel-cadmium batteries that no longer work. We’ll go in there, put all new cells in and

then have a completely new battery again.”

Miller purchased Innovative Power LLC in 2024 from Nathan Slabaugh, who founded the business with a focus on rebuilding nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride and some lithium batteries. Slabaugh was looking to step away and offered the operation to Miller.

“He didn’t have time to do this anymore,” Miller said. “He was looking for somebody. He asked me if I would be interested. Right away I wasn’t. But now I’m thankful for the opportunity he gave me.”

After taking ownership, Miller expanded the company’s services to include battery rebuilds for e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and electric three-wheelers. He also added the DeWalt FlexVolt battery to the list.

He has grown the company’s inventory with special-order custom nickel plating.

“Your DeWalt FlexVolt, for example, is a very complicated battery to rebuild,” he said. “It’s time-consuming, and it takes special plating you can’t just get anywhere. That was one of my first projects. I wanted to rebuild one, and I have accomplished that.”

The DeWalt FlexVolt line automatically switches between 20 and 60 volts depending on the tool. It’s the most frequently submitted battery for rebuilds.

Miller said the company maintains an extensive inventory. “We keep several thousand cells in all shapes and sizes of nickel plating

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in stock,” he said. “We never know what gets shipped in or dropped off each day, and we want to have the batteries done in less than a week.”

He credits the quality of the rebuilds to the brand of cells used.

“These are top of the line,” Miller said. “They exceed the performance of the cells used in new batteries. By doing a rebuild, these batteries are 100% better than the new ones.”

Miller began his electrical career six years ago in the RV industry, where he developed the skills needed for battery repair.

The rebuilding process requires precision.

First, Miller removes the screws holding the battery casing. After testing the Battery Management System to ensure it can be rehabilitated, he proceeds. The BMS board controls charge rate and output and monitors cell conditions.

“Occasionally, a battery comes in with a bad BMS,” he said. “In that case, we won’t rebuild it. Aftermarket BMS boards are available but are questionable. In those cases, we opt not to return an unsafe battery.”

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Once the BMS board is removed, he strips the plating and removes the old cells. New cells are inserted, welded with custom nickel plating, and reassembled. A final test ensures the battery charges before the casing is sealed.

Each rebuild includes a two-year warranty from the repair date.

“When I started advertising, it pretty much exploded. I’ve been busy ever since,” Miller said. “I’ve had multiple customers send me a few batteries just to try it out. Then a few months later, here comes another box full.”

He said rebuilt batteries often outperform new ones. “They are extremely good batteries,” Miller said. “Better performance than the new ones in runtime, lifespan, power — everything.”

Battery rebuilds also contribute to sustainability by reducing waste. Lithium batteries require specific disposal and are illegal to place in standard trash.

“It’s a big hassle to get your lithium batteries recycled properly, and it costs money,” Miller said. “We’ll take care of that problem, and you end up with a better battery that you don’t have to fix for a long time.”

He hopes the business will continue to grow through word-of-mouth.

“Customers say they notice the continuous long runtime between charge cycles even after hundreds of uses,” Miller said. “Whereas new batteries will lose runtime. One customer told me his e-bike jumps without power with just a small touch on the throttle.”

“Everybody’s going electric, so there’s more demand for an outlet to fix them,” he said. “It’s a safe, efficient fix. Better than new.”

Innovative Power LLC is at 12271 N. State Route 19 in Nappanee. Call 574-221-1671 or visit innovativepowerin.com for more information.

RAIN READINESS

Shaping Up Your Home with Top-Rated Gutters

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Jessica Whitehead

When rain hits a roof, it has to go somewhere. Gutters redirect that water. According to Anthony Kulikowski, owner of Top Rated Gutters, it only takes a halfinch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof to equal 300 gallons of water.

“It doesn’t take much rain to equal a lot of water,” Kulikowski says. “So, where is the water going? Is it draining properly? Is it being diverted away from the house properly? Those are all things to be mindful of.”

Kulikowski suggests that the next time it’s raining, homeowners should go outside to see if their downspouts are flowing properly. If water is coming out of the downspout, then you’ve probably got decent drainage. If, however, no water is coming out, there’s likely a clog somewhere

Anthony Kulikowski - Owner

Justine Kulikowski - Owner

that could be caused by sticks, leaves or other debris. Last year Kulikowski found a child’s wiffle ball clogging up a homeowner’s downspout, which resulted in his basement flooding. If water can’t drain off the roof properly, gutters will overflow. If water gets down next to your foundation, that can cause major problems such as flooded basements, which could potentially cost a homeowner tens of thousands of dollars in repairs.

Kulikowski has seen cases where homeowners have had to spend $10,000 to $20,000 on basement repairs as a result of severe neglect - either a lack of maintenance or failing to install any gutters at all.

“Not having a gutter is kind of the same thing as not keeping one maintained,” Kulikowski says.

Full gutters can develop into bigger issues, especially in the wintertime, because if

ESTATE BUYOUTS

the water isn’t draining then it gets heavy. Sometimes gutters can fall off if they are old or there is wood rot behind them. If water freezes in the gutters, it can create an ice dam.

“The ice will start creeping up into the shingles and then you get water inside of your house,” Kulikowski says. “Gutter maintenance is way more important than most people realize, but it’s also one of those things that you never think about until you actually have a problem.”

Kulikowski, who also owns Five Star

Painting, has been in the painting industry for 27 years, during which he has also offered gutter services. He was doing so much gutter work that last year that he decided to officially open a second business called Top Rated Gutters, offering pressure washing, gutter cleaning, gutter repair services, new gutter installation, and gutter guards.

While many homeowners are capable of taking care of their own gutter maintenance, Kulikowski is often hired by older folks or homeowners who can’t find the time to do it themselves. For some of

these customers, he recommends putting on gutter guards, a product that is installed on top of a gutter to block debris from getting into the gutter.

There are a million different types of gutter guards, from inexpensive to top of the line.

“It’s like anything else where you get what you pay for,” Kulikowski says. “Think of bath towels. You can buy really cheap thin ones that don’t soak up a lot of water and you’re not thrilled to dry off with, or you can buy the really nice plush ones that feel good to wrap up in. There’s a cost

Dr. Oriana Corsbie Joining our practice July

difference in those products. The same is true of gutter guards.”

The cheap gutter guards often don’t block out everything, and that’s what you want to watch out for because if you’re buying a gutter guard, it should be maintenance free. Kulikowski offers a lifetime warranty and clog-free guarantee on the quality gutter guards he installs. He is so confident in the guards he installs that if they ever get clogged up, he will come out, remove the guards, clean the gutters and install new ones.

“These guarantees give people peace of mind, knowing that if anything were to go wrong, we stand behind our product,” says Kulikowski, who also allows warranties to transfer to new homeowners.

“I believe the work we did is the work we did,” he says. “Who owns the house is irrelevant to me.”

Not only do they stand behind their work, but they also offer high-end products, topnotch service and financing options.

He and his team complete jobs in a timely manner and typically schedule less than two to three weeks out. Above all, he is honorable and always does what’s right.

“I’d rather walk away from a job than sell a job that I know isn’t going to work,” Kulikowski says.

He recently had a potential customer with a metal roof on a new build. He planned to install his own gutters so he was exploring his options, and asking various gutter experts for their opinion. Kulikowski told him he needed to use 6-inch rather than 5-inch gutters because water flows faster on metal roofs, and gutters would overflow using the fives. Another company had quoted the man 5-inch gutters, which cost less, but Kulikowski was insistent that 6-inch was the way to go. The customer wanted to spend less and opted to go with the five. Kulikowski wished him luck and walked away.

Although there is not a big demand for it, Top Rated Gutters also sells rain barrels and rain chains for homeowners interested in water reclamation. Instead of having a traditional downspout, you dig a French drain that water drains into.

“It’s like a chain with a bunch of little cups,” Kulikowski says. “As the water drains into that first cup, it overflows into the second cup down and so on and so on, all the way down into the French drain. It’s a neat-looking effect that you usually see on higher-end homes.”

To get a jump on spring projects, contact Top Rated Gutters today to fix things that went bad over the winter and clean out gutters that didn’t get cleaned last fall.

Schedule your free estimate today with Top Rated Gutters by calling 574-3-GUTTER. For more information, visit topratedgutters.com.

A RIDE FOR EVERYONE

THE STORY OF TRAILHOUSE VILLAGE BICYCLES

In the heart of Winona Lake, a town known for its lakeside beauty and cultural charm, there’s a bicycle shop where people don’t just ride — they connect. Just beyond the brick-paved paths of the Village at Winona, a destination listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Trailhouse Village Bicycles invites cyclists of all ages to gather, explore and grow. Among historic storefronts and green spaces, it stands as more than a business — it’s a hub of community, encouragement and a shared passion for the ride.

Writer / Amy Beaucham

Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Barrett, Nate,Barry, Noel, & Gary

Owned by Barry and Courtney McManus, Trailhouse Village Bicycles blends deep cycling expertise with warm, small-town hospitality. Barry, a six-time national BMX champion and top eight international competitor, has spent most of his life around bikes, whether racing, fixing or fitting others for their perfect ride. “Cycling shaped my entire life,” Barry says. “Now, I get to use that passion to help others discover the joy of riding.”

He didn’t plan to become a bike shop owner back when he started racing at age 13. What began as a fun way to keep up with neighborhood friends soon turned into a serious career. By 16, Barry was flying solo to California to compete. From 1984 to 2005, BMX filled his calendar and helped develop the discipline and drive that now steer his business.

His early work in a Fort Wayne bike shop gave him a foundation that grew over the years. After two long stints there — one

lasting 11 years — Barry remained deeply connected to the cycling world. He also stayed close with a fellow bike-loving family in Winona Lake. When their son, Barry’s longtime friend, passed away, conversations naturally began about the future of their shop. That connection, built over years of shared experience, led Barry and Courtney to purchase the business in 2014. They renamed it Trailhouse Village Bicycles and

began shaping it into the welcoming place it is today.

Courtney, a registered nurse, supports the business behind the scenes while the couple raises their three children. Their son Barrette, now 14, works part time at the shop and races competitively, chasing a college scholarship for road cycling. “He’s already eclipsed me,” Barry says with pride.

“Last summer, I realized my torch was passing.” Their daughters, Erin, a talented high school basketball player, and Faith, age 8, enjoy family rides along the lake and village paths. “It’s fun for them, even if it’s not their main thing,” Barry says.

That spirit of fun is central to the Trailhouse experience. “Customer service isn’t a department — it’s how we operate,” Barry says. For the past three years, the shop has been voted the best bicycle shop in northern Indiana by readers of the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. That recognition reflects their welcoming approach to every customer, whether they’re shopping for a high-performance road bike or picking out a basket for a cruiser.

Trailhouse carries Trek, Specialized, Electra, Giant, Surly, Salsa, plus Bontrager and Specialized accessories. It’s also one of the region’s top destinations for e-bikes, particularly the Aventon brand. “E-bikes are bringing in people who otherwise wouldn’t ride,” Barry explains. “They allow you to go

farther and ride more often, and you can adjust the assistance level to get the kind of ride you want.”

A standout feature is the shop’s professional bike fitting studio, led by Barry himself. As a certified master bike fitter with more than 120 hours of advanced training, he guides customers through a process that includes personal interviews, range of motion analysis and precision adjustments. “We match people with what fits their life,” Barry says. “Some folks ride five times a week, some are recovering from knee surgery. We want them all to feel confident and comfortable.”

Barry’s no-pressure approach to sales is a key part of Trailhouse’s reputation. “We never upsell,” he says. “If someone’s riding with their kids a few times a month, we’ll help them find a solid, practical bike that meets their needs, not just something that looks impressive on the showroom floor. The right bike is the one that fits their life.”

The full-service repair shop handles everything from simple tune-ups to full overhauls. Seasonal gear — gloves, shoe inserts, UV clothing and more — helps riders stay comfortable and ready for whatever the weather brings. “We see regulars like clockwork,” Barry says. “People trust us to keep their bikes in shape. It’s part of their routine.”

Trailhouse has become a beloved hub in the Village at Winona. Each Wednesday, cyclists of all levels gather for a group ride. “We get 35 to 60 people every week,” Barry says. “It’s not a race — it’s about the experience. We ride as a group and make sure no one gets left behind.” The shop also spearheads the town’s annual Critical Mass Ride each May, which begins right outside Trailhouse and brings hundreds

of cyclists together to travel from Winona Lake to Warsaw with a police escort as part of the Fat & Skinny Tire Fest — a vibrant celebration of National Bicycle Month. Now in its 20th year, the event unites riders of all skill levels and tire sizes — from racers to casual cruisers — to enjoy the cyclingfriendly communities of Warsaw and Winona Lake.

During the pandemic, when inventory was low and supply chains were tight, Trailhouse stayed open and focused on helping people ride with what they already had. “We kept fixing bikes and stayed available. People remembered that,” Barry says. That commitment, through challenges and change, helped deepen customer loyalty.

The Trailhouse team includes service manager Cory Hickson, known for his mechanical knowledge and calm presence, and Barry’s father-in-law, Gary Alberson, who brings logistical support and financial guidance. Seasonal college students and

longtime part-timers round out the friendly, capable crew. “It’s the people who create the atmosphere,” Barry says. “We’re good at reading the room and making sure people feel at home.”

Looking ahead, Barry hopes to grow Trailhouse organically, committed to thoughtful development rather than rapid expansion. He wants to keep doing what they do — just a little better each day. “We may not be the largest shop, but we’re consistent. We show up, we listen and we help people find what fits. That’s what keeps them coming back.”

Whether you’re a lifelong cyclist, a dedicated competitor, someone curious about hopping on a bike for the first time in years, or an adventurer interested in trying out an e-bike, Trailhouse is a place where you’ll be welcomed, listened to and guided toward what fits you best. You might simply be hoping to relive the joy of feeling the wind in your face as you breeze down a path. Whatever brings you in, a rewarding ride is waiting just around the bend.

Trailhouse Village Bicycles is at 1001 E. Canal St. in Winona Lake. Call 574-267-2223 or email trailhousebarry@gmail.com. Visit their website at trailhousevillage-bicycles.com.

TRAVEL THAT CONNECTS

DASH GETAWAYS CRAFTS EXPERIENCES BEYOND THE DESTINATION

Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott

When you think of packing your bags and heading out of town, where does your imagination take you? Magnificent Mount Rushmore? Historic Civil War reenactments? Ancient pyramids of Egypt? Every one of these destinations is on the upcoming adventure schedule for Dash Getaways Travel in Plymouth.

Owned and run by longtime businesswoman Lana Ball, the concept behind her business is to offer experiences that transport travelers while also bringing them together through travel to meet and connect with other people.

Ball’s drive for entrepreneurship and running her own business is born out of more than 20 years of working for her own family’s business, Ball Auction & Realty, based in Bourbon and serving communities since 1969. Among other recognitions, patriarch of the family business Daryl Ball received the Half Century Award in 2021, presented by Gov. Eric Holcomb and State Rep. Jack Jordan to honor Ball Auction & Realty for more than 50 years of longevity and contributions to the community.

This impressive work ethic became the foundation of Dash Getaways Travel. Ball had always dreamed of running her own business like her father, so after earning a degree from Purdue University in retail management, she drew on her formal education and years of personal travel experience to launch Dash Getaways Travel Tours & Gift Shoppe.

In her new venture, Ball cultivated her creative side into the Gift Shoppe products such as custom florals and home accents carried on her website, and she combined her deep commitment to being a customerservice-driven business that she learned from her father with her love of exploration and introducing others to new locations and experiences.

Ball believes strongly in the personal growth that travel can develop, and she set out to procure travel packages that go beyond the expected to the truly memorable. Much of her travel tours involve journeying on

motorcoach buses to locations throughout the U.S., which serves as a way for people to connect with others. “Whether folks are traveling together or on their own, there is a tendency to form a bond with others. As humans, we are designed to be together.” Taking the adventure beyond mere mileage to a memory-filled destination is what drives Ball’s inventive approach to her travel packages. In early 2026, Dash Getaways will lead a journey to overnight stays in both Louisville, Kentucky, and the historic Civil War town of Bardstown, Kentucky, with ghost walks in places that have been ranked in the United States and the world as the most haunted.

In Louisville, the stops will include a notorious sanitorium that took in tuberculosis patients. Timing of the tour? Midnight to 6 a.m., of course, when all things haunted seem to come alive. In Bardstown, travelers will visit the fourth-largest Civil War museum and lodge at the historic Talbott Inn, adding their names to the guest

July 11–13, 2025 - Spirits of Kentucky: A Haunted Weekend Adventure Travel via comfortable passenger van. 3 Meals. 3 Days/2 Nights - $765* pp/Double Occupancy

book alongside notable figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James. A Civil War re-enactment tops off this memorable journey back in time.

Some of Dash Getaways’ travel groups are smaller in number, such as the ghost walk trip to Kentucky and Michigan wine tours of Tabor Hill and Round Barn—to sample wines that have been served at the

Aug 1, 2025 - American Girl Store & Luncheon and Zoo Day Out - Perfect for any girl or boy who loves dolls and animals! We’ll kick off the day with a reserved lunch at the American Girl Store Café. We will have time to shop the store’s newest outfits, accessories and interactive play spaces. Next, we’ll head to the beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo, where you’ll discover exotic animals from around the world. $145.00* per person. Includes roundtrip transportation, snacks & water to and from, lunch, zoo admission, and a full day of fun! Seats are limited. Book early to make the day extra special!

August 2, 2025 - Get ready to thrift in style! Join us for a one-day treasure hunt through Chicago’s best vintage and resale shops—with a foodieapproved lunch stop along the way. Just $99* per person (meal not included). Sep. 7–13, 2025 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1067* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Sept 21–27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1398* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Oct 13–17, 2025 - Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountains Show Trip Travel Via Motorcoach. 8 meals included. $899* 5 Days/4Nights pp/Double Occupancy. # Nov 2–8, 2025 - Savannah, Jekyll Island & Beaufort, SC Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1050* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Dec 8–13, 2025 - Branson Show Extravaganza (Christmas Shows) Travel Via Motorcoach. 8 meals included. $978* 6 Days/5Nights pp/Double Occupancy. # 2026

Jan 1-10, 2026 - Legends of the Pharaohs: An Immersive Egyptian Odyssey 10 Days 9 Nights (Including a 5 Day 4 Night Nile Cruise) Exploring Ancient Egypt from Cairo down to Abu Simbel. Special Access to Sites Not Open to the Public. 22 Meals and all Gratuities Included. - Internal Airfare included. International Airfare not included. $4200* pp-Double Occupancy

January 24, 2026 - Phantom of the Opera – Chicago Getaway - Join us for a spectacular afternoon in Chicago with pre-purchased premium matinee seats to Phantom of the Opera at the stunning Cadillac Palace Theatre! A delicious lunch is included before the show, making this the perfect winter escape. Seats are very limited—book today to lock in the best ones! Any additional tickets may not be in our reserved section. This also makes a thoughtful Christmas 2025 gift for friends, family, or that special someone and a delicious charcuterie snack box to enjoy on the way home! $299 pp*

March 26-April 1, 2026 - Washington DC During Cherry Blossom Time (we will be securing a tour either through the White House or Capital Building) Travel via Motorcoach - 10 Meals included. $1097* pp 7 Days/6 Nights/Double Occupancy#

April 6-10 2026 - The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum - Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $830* pp 5 Days/4 Nights/Double Occupancy#

June 8-12 2026 | Mackinac Island (During the famous Lilac Festival) Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $875* pp 5 Days/4 Nights/Double Occupancy#

July 10-22 2026 | Nova Scotia, Acadia National Park & Prince Edward Island Travel via Motorcoach - 23 Meals included. $2499* pp 13 Days/12 Nights/Double Occupancy#

December 6–11, 2026 | Biltmore Estate & North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains - Step into a holiday wonderland as you explore the magnificent Biltmore Estate, beautifully adorned for the Christmas season. This unforgettable getaway includes festive sights, charming stops (Great getaway for unique Christmas Shopping), and warm Southern hospitality. Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $998* pp 6 Days/5 Nights/Double Occupancy#

All tours will be hosted by Lana Ball, Founder of Dash Getaways. For Full Itineraries or more information please visit our website www.dashgetawaystravel.com or call or visit us at Dash Getaways Travel

849 Lincolnway E. Plymouth, IN 46563

*All Gratuities Included in Price. Motorcoach Leaves from Dash Getaways Travel.

# - $75.00 Due Upon Signing with Final Payment Due approx. 2 months before trip. For single occupancy rates please visit our website or give us a call.

White House. Longer trips to Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod, Vermont, Savannah, Pigeon Forge and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota accommodate travelers on comfortable motorcoaches carrying groups of up to 52 people.

Ball acknowledges that not everyone enjoys air travel, so traveling on a motorcoach is an inviting alternative. “We embrace the group of travelers who enjoy this type of trip, with a preplanned itinerary. Many of these travelers don’t use a computer, so this personal approach is key to our success.”

For travel enthusiasts seeking more adventure, Dash Getaways offers a highintensity trip to the pyramids of Egypt. Having traveled to this part of the world numerous times herself, Ball has developed local connections and been granted special permission for travelers. Discussions will cover topics such as the Valley of the Kings and a second pyramid, Khafre, that has been in the news lately. Ball’s knowledge of the

pyramids is impressive, introducing travelers to the fact that the Sphinx was originally only a head, before extraction, and the overall concept of the “grandfather, father and son” being the three major pyramids.

To accentuate the literal depth of the Egypt encounter, consider the following invitation Ball has posted on the Dash Getaways Facebook page:

“Would you crawl nearly 100 feet underground into the heart of the Great Pyramid? If the answer is yes, step one is to descend through a 344-foot tunnel as narrow as a small elevator at a steep angle. Step two involves crawling through a passageway on hands and knees, arriving at a rough, silent chamber carved directly into the bedrock nearly 100 feet below ground. It’s raw, unlit, completely surreal and not part of the standard tourist route. But here’s the best part—you can do it too.”

Exclusive access to this one-of-a-kind journey is part of the “Legends of the Pharaohs: An Immersive Egyptian Odyssey” trip happening January 2026 with Dash Getaways Travel.

Ball does the company’s marketing herself, including videos, and strives to create travel packages that address the interests of travelers. Dash Getaways advertises using Facebook ads, local events such as the Plymouth Blueberry Festival, as well as on restaurant menus, attracting travelers from

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• Old U.S. Coins

• Foreign Coins

• Gold & Silver Coins

• Gold & Silver Bullion

• Pennies - 1958 & Before

• Nickels - 1938 & Before

• Nickels - 1942-1945

Shipshewana, Logansport and surrounding communities.

Ball welcomes many diverse client groups, including businesses, churches, schools and international travelers to explore the variety of travel experiences, including single-day to multi-day trips for both public and private, domestic and international groups.

“Working with Amish families has been one of the most rewarding and enriching aspects of my journey. Building lasting relationships within the Amish through travel planning and real estate has afforded me an understanding of their values, preferences and lifestyle, which has allowed me to thoughtfully craft itineraries that align with their unique needs,” confirms Ball.

Ball’s commitment to giving back to her community is a core driving force behind her business practices. She has been appointed by the mayor of Plymouth to serve on the Redevelopment Commission. She also sits

ALFALFA PELLETS

on the boards of Habitat for Humanity and the Purdue Club of Marshall County. With a ribbon-cutting ceremony in early 2025 to celebrate the opening of Dash Getaways, bookings are filling up fast. In fact, the first trip to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is nearly sold out. Ball conceptualizes about half of the travel itineraries herself and then completes the schedule with opportunities from successful travel package purveyor Diamond Tours in Florida. Future Dash Getaways tours include Kentucky’s Red River Gorge for cave kayaking and hiking, “Phantom of the Opera” in Chicago, foodie tours, girls getaways and, Ball hopes, dog sledding.

Other plans include exploring collaborations with colleges to offer student internships in research for historic adventures. Ball is eager to attract younger travelers who will embrace travel to build community through adventure.

Ball encourages people of all ages to consider

one of the opportunities at Dash Getaways Travel. “Life is a continuous journey of growth, and travel is one of its greatest teachers. The more you explore, the more you learn—not just about the world, but about yourself.”

Dash Getaways Travel is located at 849 Lincolnway E, Plymouth, IN 46563. For information and details about Dash Getaway packages, visit dashgetawaystravel. com, email Lana Ball at contact@dashgetawaystravel.com or call (574) 800-9202.

•

BEHIND THE SHELVES

HOW NEW KITCHEN STORE CURATES THE BEST OF THE BEST

Writer / Phyllis Wille

Have you ever wondered how we pick new products for the store? It’s quite a job to keep up with the market and find what our customers want. We start by keeping a running list of what people ask us to carry. We look at infomercials and other advertising to find products we may not know about. Then we go to shows, talk to our sales reps and call companies directly to explore our options.

When we bring in a product, it goes through a testing process to ensure it performs as intended. If it passes, we place it on the shelf. If it doesn’t, we inform the company that we’re not interested.

For every 10 products we test, at least one goes back. We won’t compromise our standards to sell items that don’t hold up. We offer a satisfaction guarantee, and it makes sense to only sell items that meet that high standard. With some products like pans and silicones, we also research materials to ensure we choose the best in class. That narrows down the selection and makes the process easier. We like dealing with companies that share our values. Sometimes decisions come down to environmental impact, recyclability and core company values. As consumers become more educated, we’re seeing more of these values reflected in purchase decisions.

We enjoy supporting small, local products when we can find them — such as honey, Whetstone Woodenware, maple syrup, locally made aprons and many more. We feature a few of our new items each month on our product tree at the front of the store. This month’s items include a new Black Rifle Coffee flavor, a beef tallow spray, a flex fishing knife, several loose teas and a bread sling, just to name a few.

Some of these are here because customers asked, “Have you ever tried this?” We listened — and they’ve become very popular.

The food department is harder to navigate when choosing and grading products. We can review ingredient lists, but they don’t always tell us where fruits and vegetables were grown — and that affects both taste and nutrition. We aim to carry many gluten-free options and some that use heritage grains like Kamut. We also seek products with as few ingredients as possible — but taste still matters! At our sales meetings, we sample products to see how they perform alongside others. This month, we tried bison jerky. Pumpkin seeds were another surprise — not something I expected to like, but they really impressed me.

What’s your favorite food or kitchen item? We’d love to hear from you. This is what makes our store a community, not just a place to shop. Your feedback helps shape what we bring in and how we present and sample it. In fact, that feedback led to our farmers market,

When Quality Counts the Most

held every Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. in the store parking lot, where neighbors can visit with neighbors.

We also sample coffee and tea in-store so you can try before you buy. On Saturdays, we usually offer even more samples. We try to demonstrate new products and recipes using old favorites and new finds.

One recent addition is our small shopping carts, which make it easier to navigate the store. Other services include home shipping, gift wrap, assistance with gift selection, bridal and gift registries, layaway and more.

We hope this gives you a better idea of what to expect from our customer service — which always tops our list. We especially enjoy hearing your food stories. Stop in today for a small-town feel in a large kitchen store.

Visit the New Kitchen Store at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton or visit the website at newkitchenstore.com.

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

Concrete Borders make the perfect compliment to any landscape design that adds value to your home by providing a beautiful and durable landscape edge. These continuous borders are extruded on site to create a custom-made look as they follow the curves and contours of any architectural or landscape design (without splices, breaks and individual pieces). Concrete Borders are more durable than any other edging material and are very easy to maintain. We offer multiple profiles to choose from as well as dozens of patterns, stamps, and colors to compliment any architectural scheme.

Residential and Commercial Landscape Borders

Our “on-site” extrusion process allows for gentle flowing curves, straight lines and radiuses as tight as 36” around your landscape beds and gardens.

LANDSCAPING LEGACY

HOW CONCRETE BORDERS HAS SHAPED MICHIANA LANDSCAPES

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jessica Whitehead

When Loren Stutzman moved from Florida to Indiana in the early 1990s, he noticed something missing from the landscape. In Florida, he’d grown accustomed to seeing seamless concrete edging around landscape beds, walkways and trees. In the Midwest, that type of edging hadn’t yet caught on. It wasn’t absent altogether, but it certainly wasn’t common.

In 1995, he decided to change that, and Concrete Borders was born. What began as a small operation has steadily grown into a leading provider of custom-designed, continuous concrete edging for homeowners throughout northern Indiana. Over the past

30 years, the company has earned a trusted name across the Michiana region.

“At first, people didn’t understand the concept of continuous edging,” Loren recalled during a recent interview. “Some had seen the old, segmented kind that sold in individual pieces, but they didn’t realize how much smoother and more durable a single, seamless piece could be.”

In the early days, Loren worked exclusively with plain concrete. As demand and styles evolved, he introduced color, followed by texture, stamping and decorative patterning. Every border now includes embedded steel

cable reinforcement, ensuring added strength and long-term durability.

What truly sets Concrete Borders apart is the hands-on process behind every job. Each project is installed on-site using a specialized machine that extrudes a dry, moldable concrete mix — “kind of like a Play-Doh machine,” as he put it. Once the border is extruded, it is hand-troweled and, if desired, stamped with a decorative design, then sealed at the end of the project.

To help clients choose the right look, Stutzman brings along a rolling showroom of nearly 40 sample pieces showcasing different

Concrete Borders has grown into a true multigenerational business. Loren’s sons, Justin and Nathan, now manage projects and lead crews with confidence.

“They started young,” Loren recalled. “Back then, they’d ride along in the summer and just fill buckets of sand. Now they’re running jobs from start to finish.”

Loren’s wife, Joann, is an essential part of the team, overseeing office operations. Over the years, all their children have contributed to Concrete Borders’ success.

Evan, their oldest son, spent several years working for the company before launching his own business, Stutzman Landscaping. Ryan, the youngest, also worked alongside the team for a time before pursuing his passion for mechanics and service — though he still helps with company vehicle maintenance. Kaitlin, their oldest child and

only daughter, was especially active in the early years, assisting with setup for home shows and other promotional events.

The company’s busiest season runs from late March through Thanksgiving, with a peak in late spring.

“That’s when most people start thinking about landscaping projects,” Loren explained. “Sometimes a bush or shrub has overgrown its space, or its landscape bed lines aren’t easy to mow. We help make those areas both functional and beautiful.”

The borders installed by Loren and his team serve more than a decorative purpose. They’re mower-friendly, help keep bed material in place, stop grass from growing into beds and are built to withstand Indiana’s extreme freeze-thaw cycles. Steel cable reinforcement in every installation helps prevent shifting or cracking.

Loren recommends resealing borders every

three years to keep colors vibrant. Some of his earliest projects — completed more than two decades ago — are still going strong.

That long-term durability makes it possible to revisit and expand earlier work. If a homeowner wants to match a previous border, Stutzman can make it happen.

“We keep records of all the colors and patterns,” he said. “If we need to replace a section or expand on a previous job, we can blend the new work to match seamlessly.”

In response to customer needs, the company has expanded its services slightly. While continuous borders remain their focus, the team often installs mulch or decorative stone in surrounding beds and can relocate sprinkler heads or bury downspouts.

“Water drainage is a big concern to most homeowners,” Loren said. “We try to make sure water runoff moves away from the house, which helps protect both the

Tri-State S C UBADivers

foundation and the landscaping.”

Each job begins with an on-site consultation. Loren often walks the property with the homeowner, discussing practical and aesthetic goals. He spray-paints a proposed line in the grass to help clients visualize the layout before concrete is mixed.

“I always try to meet directly with the person making decisions,” he added. “That helps us avoid delays and ensures the customer is happy with the plan from the start.”

Referrals continue to drive much of the business. Neighbors of satisfied customers often see the results and want the same. When past clients move to new homes, they call Loren’s team again. That trust comes from consistent attention to detail.

The team goes out of its way to protect each client’s driveway and lawn. That care includes power washing and cleanup on

every job and making sure all waste concrete is removed.

“When we finish, the space should look better than when we started,” he said.

That same philosophy applies to business practices. While some companies rely on rigid contracts and deposits, Concrete Borders operates with a personal touch.

“We try to be flexible with people’s schedules and budgets,” Loren said. “That’s just the way we’ve always done things.”

Loren speaks with pride and expertise built over decades of craftsmanship. He discusses concrete mixes, fiber additives and curing techniques with ease. He recalls early years working with a family friend to test mix ratios for strength and flexibility.

Loren values the impact a well-crafted border can have on a home. That same respect for lasting work carries into his

Barndominium

personal life, where he enjoys time with his 12 grandchildren and creating meaningful memories.

Asked what motivates him after three decades, Loren didn’t hesitate.

“Every job is different, but seeing a client’s reaction and satisfaction after the project is completed is a real treat. Every yard has its own challenges and personality. We get to solve problems and create something beautiful, and I get to do it with family. That’s a real blessing.”

From curved tree rings to flowing lines that make mowing easier, Concrete Borders delivers craftsmanship, practical design and family-driven service — one smooth line at a time.

To schedule a consultation or learn more, contact Concrete Borders at 574-361-9672 or visit theconcreteborders.com.

JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Solutiomns

50. Impassively 56. Start and end of the Three Musketeers’ motto

Has

In ___ of

Layer

Versifier 61. Kind

Canyon-esque 43. Out of practice 45. “Peter and the Wolf” bird 48. Oregon ___

Haul

DOWN 1. Feather holder?

Caterer’s dispenser

Bake sale offering

Hot spot

Fleet components

Crazily

Acquires

Charge carrier

In addition

Mining finds

Clappers

Mall conveniences

Spar

On pins and needles

Songlike

Deep vein thrombosis (abbr.) 42. Ancient fabulist

Downtime

Like a crone

Pugilist’s weapon

Enough to tango

United

Turned on

Ang or Spike

Compliment to the

BONTRAGER TRACTOR

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Harley Bontrager has always loved working on motors. Even as a child, tinkering with his dad’s various machines on the farm, he was intrigued and enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together.

He owned a construction company for more than 15 years but chose to shift gears, launching Bontrager Tractor in late 2023 with his brother and brother-in-law, Vernon and Devon.

Bontrager said that with their vast amount of knowledge and experience, they make a great team.

He’s currently a Yanmar dealer, featuring agricultural equipment, tractors and UTVs, and offers repair and maintenance services.

“Yanmar offers a 10-year warranty. It’s by far the best on the market. They have faith in their product, and we’ve had very good success with them,” Bontrager said. “We also offer zero percent financing with competitive rates and occasional discounts.”

attachments, including bush hogs, tillers, graders, grapples and more.

In the retail portion of the shop, customers can pick up batteries, belts, filters, oil and hydraulic hoses, among many other options.

They occasionally have some used tractors and other machinery as well.

For Bontrager, he doesn’t buy into pressure sales and gimmicks. He simply believes in the Yanmar product and the services they offer.

“I don’t ever want to be the reason someone buys a tractor. You’re not going to come in and I persuade you to buy something you don’t need. That makes an unhappy customer,” Bontrager said. “I feel like providing a good, solid piece of equipment and establishing a trusted relationship is most important. We want Bontrager to be a trusted name, and we’re promoting the quality and service we offer.”

With summer in full swing, Bontrager said regular maintenance will become even more important to make the large machinery last.

Similar to a vehicle, if you’re not checking the oil and the filters, it’s a safe bet the machine will begin to have issues.

“It’s not uncommon to have customers bring something in that has long been neglected, but the small stuff matters. What’s important for any motor — making sure all of your fluids are topped off, keeping it in good running condition — will help maintain the longevity of your engine,” Bontrager said. “Some of that can be done from home, but you’re welcome to have the service shop check it out, and it’s always a good idea to get an annual inspection.”

As a new business, Bontrager has plans for the future and hopes

Exquisite ELEGANCE

Custom Metal

KITCHEN HOODS

Accent your kitchen with a beautiful metal range hood. Fully customized to your specs and style.

“We’d

Bontrager

A GROWING SPARK

BASS LAKE YOUTH TURNS CAMPFIRE NEEDS INTO BOOMING BUSINESS

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Parker Grelewicz is 11 years old and headed to the sixth grade this fall. He’s an honor roll student and loves to golf in his free time, but this spring, Grelewicz also became an entrepreneur.

Just a few weeks ago, he opened Parker’s Firewood, the perfect spot for campers and visitors to Bass Lake to grab their wrapped bundle of firewood and enjoy their afternoon or evening on the lake.

Grelewicz said the idea is really thanks to ABC’s “Shark Tank.”

“I was inspired and wanted to invent something. My dad and I brainstormed

Parker Grelewicz

and drew some ideas on the whiteboard in our basement. We spent two months building it. It looks like a little shed with no doors and a metal sheet roof to protect the firewood,” Grelewicz said.

After building the structure, Grelewicz and his dad got to work on the next step, splitting wood from their backyard with a 40-ton wood splitter and packaging it in $6 increments, wrapped in plastic wrap.

Over Memorial Day weekend, it was official.

The shed was delivered to the lake, stocked with plenty of firewood, and a

sign with QR codes to pay via Venmo or PayPal was installed, along with a cash box.

“I made a total of $71 the first threeday weekend. I think people like building campfires, roasting s’mores and hanging out with their friends. There’s a campground at Bass Lake, so it’s something they’ll need,” Grelewicz said.

He even installed motion-sensor lights, so customers aren’t stumbling in the dark to purchase their firewood.

Bass Lake is a 1,345-acre lake near Knox, Indiana, and is the third-largest natural lake in the state. They welcome an estimated 100,000 visitors each year for boating, fishing, swimming and camping.

Not only did he see a need and find a way to fill it, Grelewicz’s mom, Jayne, said Parker has always been a go-getter.

“We joke that he’s our little adult child. He’s always thinking things through, big into Legos and building, and it’s not uncommon for him to put together a project like this,” Jayne said. “We have an Airbnb at the lake, so when we have renters come, they can get firewood if needed. It was also a way for Parker to be involved in that as well.”

It may not be uncommon for the Grelewicz family, but clearly, the rest of the world was impressed.

Jayne posted a video of Parker’s work on Instagram and Facebook, earning nearly 12,000 views, and his story was shared nearly 50 times.

He plans on selling firewood for the rest of the summer and hopes to become a professional golfer in the future, but it’s safe to say Grelewicz can always fall back on entrepreneurship.

Lakeshore Concierge Services

Lakeshore Concierge Service has been pleased to supply Concierge services to all of Marshall, Starke, and Fulton counties in Indiana. Our mission is to connect the current service providers with prospective customers.

Our job is to make sure your time is more enjoyable and stress free. Let us help solve the issues you may be having in locating or hiring a contractor or service. There is no cost for this service until you hire us for the job. So, let us help with your project needs.

We work to supply:

• The correct contractors for a particular job.

• Supply multiple quotes

• Manage start to finish on job time line

• Answer questions for both parties involved in the project

• We will work on any job, nothing is too big or too small.

• Maintenance, Remodelling, and New Construction

We do Reservations Services as well for Salons, restaurants, floral deliveries, grocery delivery, & More!

TIKTOK BOAT DIP

Prep Time 5 minutes

Chill Time 2 hours

INGREDIENTS

• 16 ounces sour cream

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 (10.5oz.) can Rotel with green chilies drained

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream and taco seasoning until fully combined.

2. Add in the drained tomatoes and cheese and stir until evenly incorporated.

3. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

4. Service with your favorite Chips, Crackers, Pretzels, or Breads.

M-Th: 8:00am - 4:30pm

REMEMBERING THE TRAGEDY OF ’82

THE LOCAL AND NATIONAL IMPACT OF THE DEATHS OF FIVE PLYMOUTH FIREFIGHTERS

Writer / Jeff Kenney

It was an event etched into the memory of everyone in the Plymouth, Indiana, area and beyond who was alive when it happened — and one that would help

save countless lives in the years to come. On July 31, 1982 — 43 years ago this month — five Plymouth firefighters died near what was long known as the West

High Curve while responding to a house fire at nearby Lake Latonka.

The pumper truck, driven by 17-year

veteran fireman Alphonse Kriscunas, 62, zigzagged across the center line of State Road 17 as it rounded the sharp curve heading southwest. The truck broke through the steel guardrail and plunged down the embankment, just yards from the former West High School building, which was razed in 2023 after being closed for decades.

The fire truck struck a utility pole and landed upside down in the marshland west of the highway, with all five victims pinned beneath.

Kriscunas, a full-time firefighter, died alongside volunteer firemen Randy Hansen, 30; Dane Hoffhein, 33; Brian Samuels, 26; and Gary VanVactor, 24. The sixth firefighter, 27-year-old Sean O’Keefe, was thrown through the windshield and treated for a sprained neck before being released.

It took three hours of work in the marshy

terrain to recover the victims’ bodies. Plymouth Fire Chief Wayne Smith said the truck, purchased in 1965, had been regularly maintained and was in good condition. Authorities were unsure whether a mechanical failure or the shifting weight of the water in the truck’s tank caused the accident. The *Pilot News* reported that skid marks on the roadway suggested the sharp curve itself was not the cause. Smith noted the five were the first firefighters to die in the line of duty since the department was established in 1836.

Ironically, the fire at Lake Latonka was already out when another truck arrived, and only minimal damage had occurred.

State Fire Marshal William C. Goodwin called the incident the worst tragedy in terms of firefighter deaths in Indiana history. Plymouth Mayor Charles O. Glaub described it as “a terrible tragedy for our community. Everyone here is

upset and in a state of shock. The effect of the tragedy will be far-reaching.”

Roughly 3,500 mourners — including 800 firefighters from across Indiana and as far away as Georgia — paid tribute to the fallen at an Aug. 4 service at Plymouth High School gymnasium.

Local businesses closed, flags flew at halfstaff and people lined the streets for the three-mile procession to the cemetery.

Secretary of State Edwin J. Simcox, representing Gov. Robert D. Orr, told the crowd the firefighters’ deaths were

“an example of courage to all of us. The state grieves their passing and in so doing remembers with gratitude their dedication to the citizens of Plymouth.”

Fire Chief Smith told the “South Bend Tribune” before the service that the accident “was like losing five brothers all at once.” He had earlier described the department to the “Pilot News” as “one big family... we work together, play together, fight together and love one another. You have to depend on that guy when you go into a burning building... it will be a long while before we recover.”

Firefighters wearing black tape on their badges served as pallbearers, helping load and unload the caskets onto fire trucks before and after the journey to New Oak Hill Cemetery, where the VFW gave a 21gun salute.

Firefighters in attendance also pledged to start a fund for the victims’ children and families. Bill Satorius of the Plymouth Fire Department told the Associated Press that survivors would also qualify for federal funds from the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program. U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar of Indiana confirmed the support.

In 2014, a permanent memorial was erected near the crash site, replacing five wooden crosses placed shortly after the incident. More than 100 people gathered that December to dedicate the stone monument north of State Road 17. The new marker includes images of the fallen.

Brandon VanVactor, son of Gary, told WSBT he was grateful. Just a year old when the crash happened, he said the families were “happy this has finally taken place and thankful for all the people who took the time and effort.”

Former Chief Smith said he was struck by the thought that the monument might stand for 100 or even 200 years. “People will realize what happened back in 1982,” he said.

Another tribute came last July when the Plymouth Fire Department received Engine 82 — named for the year of the tragedy — to replace a 30-year-old vehicle. Current

Fire Chief Steve Holm told WSBT that the new truck symbolizes both remembrance and enhanced firefighter safety. “It’s a reminder of the risk we take every time we leave for a call,” he said. The truck includes modern features like airbags and safety gear, marking a vast improvement from past designs.

Quality Care, Closer To Home

Pulaski Memorial Hospital Medical and Surgical Group diligently works to provide groundbreaking services and compassionate care to our local communities.

Operating clinics in six convenient locations, our staff is dedicated to providing “Quality Care, Closer To Home.”

From routine check-ups to acute and chronic care management, the team at the Culver Medical Center is ready to keep you and your family healthy.

The clinic is staffed by Dr. Tim Day, a Culver native; Dr. Dan Anderson, a General Surgeon; Alexa Good, FNP-C, a Family Nurse Practitioner; Morgan Faanes, DPM, a Podiatrist; and Sandra Ringer, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. They are ready to meet your primary care, surgery, foot care, and behavioral healthcare needs.

The Culver Medical Center is open Monday through Friday, and all providers are accepting new patients.

National, Life-Saving Impact

A more far-reaching legacy of the 1982 tragedy — and others like it can be found in national changes to firefighter safety standards.

According to a podcast from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org), firefighter deaths from falling off fire trucks were once common — with nearly four fulltime firefighters per year (a total of 41) dying in such incidents from 1977 to 1987.

Before the publication of NFPA 1500 in 1987 — the first occupational safety standard for fire services — few universal safety standards existed. “Riding the tailboard,” or standing unprotected on the back of a truck, was a common and even romanticized practice dating back 200 years.

The NFPA’s 19-member technical committee to develop minimum safety standards was created in 1983, the year after the Plymouth tragedy. Though the standards primarily addressed full-time firefighters, the incident’s national significance was likely known to the committee.

Many firefighters initially resisted seat belts and enclosed cabs, fearing they would delay response times. But the committee, composed of working firefighters, succeeded in passing new regulations at the NFPA’s 1987 national convention in Ohio.

Though enforcement proved challenging, the changes influenced equipment manufacturers and gradually became standard as older equipment was phased out. The new rules banned riding outside the truck en route to a call, mandated safety belts and enclosed

Tim Day, MD

Alexa Good, FNP-C

Morgan Faanes, DPM

Sandra Ringer, LCSW, RPT-S

Dan Anderson, MD

Al Kriscunas

Dane Hoffhein

Gary Van Vactor

cabs, and required other safety features like breathing apparatuses.

These changes saved lives. From 1992 to 2004, only four deaths from falling off fire trucks occurred — and none since. Overall firefighter deaths declined from 130 annually (with 100,000 injuries) to around 80 deaths and 70,000 injuries per year.

Chief Holm told WSBT that many current firefighters weren’t alive in 1982, but “we always make sure that we have a service and keep them involved so that they know exactly what happened and what sacrifices there were for this department.”

Jeff Kenney serves as Museum and Archives Manager for Culver Academies and on the Board of Trustees of the Culver Historical Society. A Culver resident, he is a frequent speaker and local history contributor.

Randy Hansen

Brian Samuels

Submit Your Events!

Koontz Lake/ Walkerton/ Grovertown

ALL times listed are Central Time.

Every Monday

Bingo, doors open at 5 p.m., early bird starts at 6 p.m., and regular games start at 6:30 p.m. at the Koontz Lake Association Community Building.

Every Thursday

New Kitchen Store Farmers Market, 4–6 p.m. Please visit our online store and don’t forget to like us on Facebook @ NewKitchenStore.

Koontz Lake Conservancy District Board Meeting at the Sewer District Building. Join remotely by calling 240-5910378, code 385729#, or via web join.freeconferencecall.com/ klcdboardmeeting.

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, 7 a.m.–noon, Koontz Lake Fire House

Koontz Lake Association Fourth of July Celebration, 8 a.m. – Kayak Race at Kramer Beach (life vest required; waiver must be signed on site).

10:30 a.m. – Golf Cart Parade starting at 11958 E. Woodbrine Lane. Carts must be registered and decorated in a “Tropical Paradise” theme and arrive by 10 a.m. Waiver required.

Noon to 3 p.m. – PT and the Cruisers at Kramer Beach (bring a lawn chair and beverage). Rain location: KLA Community Building.

KLA Board Meeting Third Tuesday of the month,

6:30 p.m. at the KLA Clubhouse. Meetings are open to the public.

Koontz Lake Lions Club Meeting Third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. at the Sewer District Building, 10625 E. Prairie Ave. Meetings are open to the public.

26

Father-Daughter Dance hosted by the Koontz Lake Lions at the KLA Building, 5–8:30 p.m. Tickets: $20 per father-daughter duo. Available at the door or by calling Sara at 508-439-0164.

Bremen/Lake of the Woods

ALL times listed are Eastern.

5

Run Walk Roll – At the BCC Building (residents only)

Fourth of July Fireworks and Festivities at the BCC Building, Rupert’s Resort and on the lake. Activities all day.

LOWPOA Meeting, 9 a.m. at the BCC Building.

BCC Meeting, 9 a.m. at the BCC Building.

Knox/Bass Lake/Starke County

ALL times listed are Central Time.

5

Fourth of July Parade, 2 p.m. followed by Family Fun Day and Fireworks Show at Wythogan Park.

Concert in the Park, 7-10 p.m., Wildheart Band (country/classic Southern rock) at Wythogan Park. Lake

Maxinkuckee/

Marshall County

ALL times listed are Eastern.

Every Saturday

Culver Farmers Market, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at the park.

Every Tuesday

Culver Farmers Market, 5–7 p.m. at the park.

Every Tuesday and Thursday –Yoga at the Beach Lodge, 8:30 a.m., all levels welcome. Chair yoga at 10 a.m.

5 Fireworks

Ann M. Smitson Moonlight Serenade

18–20

Culver Lakefest 2025 – Theme: “Make a Splash.” Parade, music, vendors, food and fireworks over Lake Maxinkuckee.

Waves of Freedom 5K

4:30–7 p.m., Culver Lions Corn Roast, 4:30–7 p.m., at the Depot, all-you-can-eat corn and hamburgers.

5–8 p.m. – Culver Fireman’s Festival – Carnival games for all ages at the Culver Union Township Fire Department parking lot.

Downtown Live at the Depot, 6:30–8:30 p.m. at Nickel Plate Square, Downtown Argos. Free summer concert featuring Tonight Only playing Rock and Americana.