Simplee Stated Gifts
LOCAL CHARM, SIMPLY YOURS & WHERE HOLIDAY GIVING BEGINS
The Chupp Brothers Grow E&S Bulk Foods into a Shipshewana Staple
Art Awakened by Suzy Q is a One-of-a-King Boutique & Ceramic Painting Studio
FRESH FOUNDATIONS
BINKLEY’S FLOORING WAREHOUSE ACQUIRES FORMER FLETCHER’S CARPET LOCATION
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Walk through the doors of the familiar showroom on Toto Road, and you’ll sense both renewal and continuity. The address is the same, the friendly feel is still there, yet the floor samples are refreshed, the layout is ideal,
and new choices line the walls.
Fletcher’s Carpet has a new name and new ownership: Binkley’s Flooring Warehouse.
Owner Bob Binkley didn’t set out to buy a floor store. He happened to hear a radio ad announcing that Fletcher’s was liquidating and
decided to stop by.
“I heard a commercial on our local radio that they were liquidating everything,” Binkley says. “So I stopped in, talked to the owners, and we came to a deal. I just purchased it as it was.”
Carla Bradley, Bob BinkleyOwner, Tiffany BinkleyOwner, Lisa Tolson
Binkley brings a steady, practical background to the business. He worked in the Carpenters Union for several years before becoming a lineman for the local electric utility, a position he still holds. He knows the community well and understands the value of dependability. The transition from Fletcher’s Carpet to Binkley’s Flooring Warehouse was smooth.
“They gave me the keys, and I gave them their money — that was pretty much the whole transition,” he says.
Longtime employee Carla Bradley stayed on to maintain continuity, and Lisa Tolson, a new hire, quickly got to work cleaning, painting and reorganizing the showroom. His wife, Tifany, a schoolteacher, helps as often as she can, while his brother, son and parents assist with maintenance and improvements. His daughter, Amelia, lends a hand with cleaning and organization.
At Binkley’s, the guiding values are honesty and reliability.
“We believe in being honest, standing behind what we sell, and being available whenever our customers need help,” Binkley says.
His goal is for customers to feel comfortable coming back, knowing they are dealing with people who care.
The 18,000-square-foot showroom holds an impressive range of flooring. Binkley’s carries carpet, luxury vinyl plank, sheet vinyl (also known as linoleum), and ceramic and porcelain tile. Major brands include Mohawk, Shaw, Mannington and Casabella, with options for both residential and commercial use. Around 60 area rugs are kept in stock, in
indoor and outdoor styles and popular sizes from 5x7 to 9x12. New styles arrive as stock moves, so customers always find fresh looks.
Helping customers choose the right product is where Binkley’s shines. Shoppers can feel textures and see colors firsthand, and there’s even a lamp that mimics different types of home lighting so samples can be viewed accurately. Pet owners often choose SmartStrand, Pet Premier or EverStrand carpet — made from recycled materials and designed for stain resistance. Families with children appreciate the waterproof plank options that handle daily spills and traffic. Binkley’s also carries marine carpet for boat trailer bunks, piers and shore stations.
Installation is flexible. The store provides a list of trusted local contractors but allows customers to hire their own installer or complete projects themselves. They also offer custom cuts so shoppers can buy exactly the amount they need for a single room or stair runner.
New offerings continue to expand. Tile and area rugs were recently added, and plans are underway for a grand-opening event once showroom updates are complete. Binkley looks forward to welcoming the community when the time is right.
Keeping the business local means everything to him.
“That’s why I bought it,” he says. “It’s been here for nearly 30 years. I wanted to keep it a local business so people aren’t having to drive an hour to get what they need.”
Community support runs both ways. Binkley has already sponsored — and plans to continue sponsoring — youth sports at Knox, North Judson and Oregon-Davis schools, and he is an assistant coach for girls basketball at Culver Academies, where his daughter is a senior. Every couple of months, the store runs giveaways that highlight other small businesses, such as a recent promotion with Brothers in Arms, a local shop.
Feedback from customers has been encouraging. Longtime Fletcher’s shoppers appreciate that the store remained open under local ownership.
“People have been happy that we kept it going,” he says. “They like that we’re local and not a big corporation coming in.”
One customer, Jamie Palmer, shared this review: “Very friendly and ready to help us as soon as we walked through the door. They went out of their way to understand our project and get us exactly what we needed. We will definitely be back.”
Binkley expresses gratitude to those who have supported him through the transition.
“I just want to thank the customers who’ve come in during our first few months,” he says. “We’re thankful for the community and excited to keep serving them.”
Binkley’s Flooring Warehouse is located at 2100 East Toto Road in Knox. You can call them at 574-772-7088 or email binkleysflooring@yahoo.com for more information.
One-of-a-kind gifts boutique, check. Artist collaborative, check. Event space for group activities and celebrations, check. Creative workshop classes, check.
Awakened by Suzy Q on Main Street
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott Photographer / Tony Straw
Art
Gabrielle Davidson & Suzanne Wakefield- Owner
in Culver fits all of these descriptions. Opened less than six months ago as a reimagined space to offer local artists a platform to sell their artwork and introduce new instructional classes that draw in crowds of coworkers, students and even men who enjoy exercising their artistic muscles, owner Suzanne Wakefield honors the business she took over and is eager to introduce plans to partner with more kids’ groups, churches, the library and retirement centers to help provide crafts and art projects in formats that are flexible with timing and other constraints.
Nestled among quaint restaurants and a variety of retail stores on Main Street, Art Awakened by Suzy Q is home to 21 vendors showcasing a wide variety of techniques, as well as a walk-in-style paint-your-ownceramics section. Wakefield is an artist
herself, and she celebrates the talented artist vendors who create a diverse inventory of items. She creates mixed-media, one-ofa-kind jewelry, paintings and craft items such as an adorable sock snowman, which is the focus of an upcoming holidaythemed instructional class.
Whether it’s a group of coworkers gathering to paint a piece of ceramics or a local shopper searching for the perfect gift, Art Awakened is a welcoming space to find beautiful craftsmanship and make memories. Displays and tables provide the stage for unique artistic pieces, from handstitched leather goods and handmade silver jewelry to resin glass and stained glass showpieces.
The paint-your-own-ceramics process allows for walk-ins and planned groups to come in, choose a piece of ceramics and let their creativity flow. Once the painting is done, Art Awakened glazes the piece to make it glossy, food-safe and waterproof, and then fires the ceramics in the in-store kiln for “guest artists”
to take home and enjoy—or wrap up as a gift
Wakefield welcomes all ages in the classes held at the shop and notes that “it’s not just women who come in to take classes. In fact, one of our local police officers joined a recent class and surprised himself at how much he enjoyed—and succeeded at—learning the artistic technique of resin glass design.”
The early autumn resin pumpkin class was extremely popular, so more resin glass classes will take place throughout the year with themes such as winter holiday and butterflies. Other ongoing classes include stained glass and hand clay.
During Culver’s annual Winter Fest and Holiday Hop, a Stained Glass Snowman Class will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6. A
Stained Glass Ornament Class will be held on Dec. 7, while a second Stained Glass Snowman Class will occur the following weekend on Dec. 14.
Ongoing classes are listed on the website artawakened.com and on the Visit Culver website and Facebook page. Children can attend classes that are tailored to be ageappropriate for honing skills and gaining confidence.
Art Awakened encourages groups to
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consider combining their event with an artistic technique class or simple ceramics painting. Wakefield lists business staff gatherings, bridal or baby showers, Culver Academies student leader groups, men’s groups, milestone birthdays, date nights and family reunions as inspired ideas for an innovative group activity.
“It’s a great way to spend time together and have conversation inspired by creative activity,” Wakefield says.
After 20 years of running her own custom embroidery business in Culver—and 18 years before that running Suzy Q Daycare—Wakefield took ownership of the collaborative-format business when the previous owner, also an artist, chose to close the shop. Wakefield was a vendor in the store and viewed the opportunity to purchase the business as a way of ensuring local artists would continue to have a space to display and sell their work.
Highlighting the list of vendors are artists who also accept requests for custom orders. Gabrielle Davidson harkens back to the days
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when her father taught her how to create rings out of metal as the foundation for her early artistry, later expanding into working with stones and beads that are popular for baby shower gifts and beyond. Cindy Carter has enjoyed making beautiful items since childhood and now finds inspiration in nature and landscapes for her stained glass, mosaic and ceramics. Lori Bendy’s glass resin pieces are a celebration of color and shape, and her resin glass workshops are some of the most popular. Metal Art by Wesley is an eyecatching collection of unique formations best seen firsthand in the shop.
Along with these vendors and the many others, Wakefield invites artists to bring their materials and work in the shop — perhaps helping shake a case of artist’s block by bouncing ideas off other artists and promoting an atmosphere of community and creativity.
Art Awakened by Suzy Q is located at 109 S. Main St., Culver. You can visit them online at artawakened.com for more information.
Dr. Oriana Corsbie Joining our practice July 2025!
CHRISTMAS MORNING CINNAMON ROLL CASSEROLE
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tubes (8 count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls
• ¼ cup salted butter (melted)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 3 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour in melted butter.
2. Remove cinnamon rolls from the package, reserving frosting for later.
3. Cut cinnamon rolls into 3/4″ pieces, about 4 pieces per roll, and place in the prepared baking dish.
4. Whisk together the milk, pure maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined, and pour the mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish.
5. Bake the casserole for 35-45 minutes until light golden brown and puffed.
6. Let cool for 10–15 minutes, then drizzle the top of the casserole with package frosting and serve.
7. Enjoy & Happy Holidays!
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.
12 DAYS OF GIVING BACK
After much success last holiday season, Dawn Verhaeghe, owner of CleanRite Cleaning Service, has decided to launch the 2nd annual 12 Days of Giving Back. This means her cleaning crew will not receive the traditional 12 Days of Christmas gifts. Instead, they will experience the blessing of giving back for the 12 Days of Christmas.
“One night, when I couldn’t sleep, the idea of Giving Back 2024 came to mind,” Dawn says. “How it’s more important to give back than to receive. How sometimes in life you have something that has touched you or your family in some way, shape, or form. Then leaving behind that chapter that forever touched your heart and leaves behind the memories (bad or good). When you have always said, ‘If I had the extra funds, I would donate to this cause because it means so much to me,’ now is that time. It was important for me to receive some feedback from the CleanRite Crew and how they thought our first season went. As a team, we all agreed it was GREAT and could not wait to pick our nonprofit organizations for this holiday season!”
The process started when Dawn sent a text to each crew member in October stating,
Seth Martin
“This year I am not doing the 12 Days of Christmas. Instead, we are going to bless 12 Days of Nonprofit Organizations within the 60-mile radius we serve.”
She told the crew to submit their photo
and a short explanation of why their chosen organization was important to them. Crew members needed to provide the organization’s address and contact information, and each was allotted $200 to donate — either to one nonprofit or split between two. Each selected organization receives the donation along with a letter explaining that they were chosen by a CleanRite staff member to receive this blessing.
Below are the nonprofit organizations and the staff members who selected them for the 2025 holiday season:
Day 1 – Neighborhood Center — Linda Baker-Houin
Day 2 – Bread of Life Community Food Pantry — Pat Pranger
Day 3 – Family Christian Development Center — Melanie Larrison
Day 4 – United Way of Marshall County — Rebekah Bierly
Day 5 – Zac Mago Foundation — Jayce Rizek
Day 6 – Community Foundation — Manda King
Day 7 – Bread of Life Community Food Pantry & Big Country Predator Exposure — Deb Leake
Day 8 – Christian Community Food Pantry — Sherry Hagenow
Day 9 – Bread of Life Community Food Pantry — Patricia Koch
Day 10 – Heartland Animal Rescue — Aiden McCray
Day 11 – Blessings in a Backpack — Claire Tanner
Day 12 – Zac Mago Foundation — Seth Verhaeghe
Congratulations to all organizations! For more details about why each nonprofit was chosen and for donation information, visit CleanRite Cleaning Service, Inc. on Facebook.
Simplee Stated Gifts
LOCAL CHARM, SIMPLY YOURS & WHERE HOLIDAY GIVING BEGINS
Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
collects lake-themed décor, and who visited to discover the perfect teacher gift.
space is warm and easy to wander. Tables are set with seasonal finds, shelves hold Indianamade treats, and a display of engraved gifts suggests a story behind every item. Owner Sandy Saenz greets customers like neighbors, remembering who loves Chala handbags, who
This is Simplee Stated Gifts — where thoughtfulness and creativity greet you at every turn.
Sandy’s path to retail began with a talent for making people feel seen, along with a knack for creative artistry and detail. Years
ago, she worked as an office manager for a construction company, where one of her many responsibilities was creating the company’s corporate gift baskets. The feedback was constant — everyone told her she should do it as a business. Encouraged by those compliments, she tested the idea with a sixweek pop-up inside Martin’s Super Market in Plymouth. After finishing her day job in South Bend, she would drive to the grocery store,
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open the small shop by mid-afternoon, and stay until 9 p.m.
People noticed. Before long, a downtown shopkeeper invited her to become a vendor. The seed took root.
That location in downtown Plymouth has stayed constant, even as her role evolved.
“I tell people when I share my story that I have been in the same spot for 13 years, but it’s just been three versions: a vendor, a partner, and now a sole owner,” Sandy says.
In 2017, she purchased The Frame Shoppe, the longtime custom-framing business on the Michigan Street side of her L-shaped building. Today, Simplee Stated Gifts & The Frame Shoppe flow together as one welcoming experience with two entrances. One door opens to gifts and apparel — the other to the framing studio, where custom designs and memory pieces take shape.
Sandy’s creative streak started at home. She learned wood crafts and wreath-making with her mother, then turned that eye for creative detail toward gifts and displays. The store’s décor is thoughtful yet relaxed — each product helps tell the story. Four streetfacing windows carry the seasonal theme throughout the year.
For December, they shine with Christmas charm, drawing passersby toward the sparkle within. Inside, customers linger on original wood floors and wander between women’s clothing and accessories, home décor, lake and cabin accents, children’s items, and a corner devoted to Indiana pride.
chocolates crafted in Nappanee.
A feature wall labeled “We Are Indiana” grew from a simple question visitors kept asking: Do you have postcards or anything small that says Plymouth? That sparked a hunt for state-sourced and state-themed goods. You’ll find soup and cookie mixes from the Soup for Success Mission in Elkhart, salsa and jams made in Bremen, Ben’s Pretzels dry mix, Amish popcorn from Berne, and fudge and
Shelves also feature well-known gift lines including Chala handbags, Dr. Squatch, Inis fragrances, P. Graham Dunn, Warmies, Stonewall Kitchen, Leanin’ Tree, and Studio M Art Poles.
Customization has become one of the store’s biggest draws. Sandy added on-site
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laser engraving nearly six years ago and now personalizes an impressive range of items. “I have a laser engraver here on site,” she says. “I have over 400 items that I can personalize.”
Customers bring ideas and leave with engraved mugs, tumblers, frames, cutting boards, ornaments, and plaques — each one ready to mark a milestone.
One memorable engraving story began when five sisters visited to shop for their eldest sibling’s 80th birthday. One sister had written a poem filled with family memories. When
they discovered the range of items Sandy could engrave, the shopping trip turned into a mission. They secretly planned with her to etch the poem onto a plaque they’d found in the shop — one featuring a graceful tree that reminded them of their family roots. When the birthday celebration arrived and the honoree opened the gift, everyone cried tears of happiness.
Memories are preserved in many different ways at The Frame Shoppe. People bring in everything from concert posters and children’s art to military medals, farm photographs and quilts. Sandy listens to each story first, shaping a design that honors the sentiment and stays within budget. One of her most memorable projects came from a retired pastor who wanted to frame a portrait of his late wife.
He and Sandy planned the mat and moulding together while he sat comfortably, sharing memories as they worked. When he later picked up the finished piece, he was moved
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to tears. He told Sandy he has coffee with his wife every morning. Those moments remind her why custom framing matters.
When asked what stands out most about her business, Sandy shares that it all begins with connection.
“It has to be my customer service — the friendly atmosphere, one-on-one,” she says. “I might not know your name, but I’ll remember that you liked something in my store.”
She treats every customer like family and means it.
“You don’t ever, ever apologize for crying in my store. My store is a safe space,” she says. Sandy emphasizes how her business is very much a calling. “I know that I know that I know that I am where I’m supposed to be.”
When sharing life’s joys or struggles, many people find comfort in the safe, welcoming
space Sandy has created — and in her listening heart.
Community has always been part of her story. As president of Discover Plymouth, the downtown merchants group, she helps plan collaborative events that bring people to the city’s heart.
When she first arrived as a vendor, empty storefronts were common. Today, those spaces fill quickly with new small businesses. Her next-door neighbor is Gather, a restaurant created by the Gather 2 Graze team. The two spaces share a wide interior opening, so diners can step through to browse the gift shop while waiting for their meal, then return for dessert — or a second look at that perfect item they spotted earlier.
Seasonal events at Simplee Stated Gifts are both festive and engaging. December brings “12 Days of Christmas,” a daily spotlight where one in-store item or category features a special price for that day only. The popular
Red Envelope promotion begins on Small Business Saturday, the Saturday following Thanksgiving. Shoppers earn a sealed red envelope with a qualifying purchase. Inside is
during the semiannual sale. Two grand-prize envelopes include gift certificates for a full
year of shopping. It’s a tradition that brings cheer to the quieter winter weeks and gives customers something fun to look forward to after the holidays.
Hands-on creativity thrives in the store’s make-and-take area. The newest favorite is a crushed-glass and resin art class. Participants choose a shape template, place contact paper, select from a wide range of crushed-glass colors, and pour resin for a luminous stainedglass effect. Because Sandy uses a quick-set resin, participants can take their treasures home with them — a handcrafted keepsake as personal as it is beautiful.
The reviews say it best. “This is a cool store to stop in and check things out,” writes Steven Wheat. “The owner is friendly and very helpful … it’s a great place to pick up gifts for different kinds of parties.” Jennifer Criddle calls everything “so adorable,” from jewelry to clothing to household items. Amanda Lawson praises both the prices and the kindness: “Sandy was such a gem … she made me feel
so comfortable.”
Yvonne Comeno appreciates the engraving and value, while Pam Lee sums it up perfectly — Sandy is phenomenal at helping find the perfect gift and “does so much for Plymouth.”
Another shopper, Heather Banas, captured the experience this way: “The store is full of Indiana-made products, squeaky hardwood floors, friendly smiles, and treasures you didn’t know you needed until you found them.”
Sandy’s calendar reflects that same community spirit. She hosts a holiday open house each November benefiting Blessings in a Backpack, a nonprofit that provides weekend meals to children who might otherwise go hungry when school is out. She also helps organize downtown traditions such as the Chocolate Walk and a music-themed scavenger hunt where families match holiday song titles to participating businesses. The goal is simple — to bring people downtown,
introduce them to local shops, and keep Plymouth’s small-town heart thriving. The heart of it all still circles back to relationships. A customer once came in, quiet and weighed down by the recent loss of a son. She was preparing for a long-planned trip to Disney World with her other son and grandchildren but felt guilty about going. They talked for a while — about the trip, the grandkids, and the memories they would make together. Weeks later, she returned, saying the trip had been exactly what she needed. Before leaving, she turned to Sandy and said, “Thank you for making me smile.” It’s a moment that perfectly captures the difference between shopping small and shopping anywhere else.
At Simplee Stated Gifts & The Frame Shoppe, you’ll find engraved keepsakes, cozy home décor, women’s apparel, lake and cabin accents, Indiana goodies, and that hard-to-find something you’ll be so pleased and proud to give. Step into
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13468 ST. RD. 4 GOSHEN, IN 46528 PH. 574-536-9400 FAX: 574-336-3445
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The Frame Shoppe next door for custom framing that treats your memories like art. Then stop by Gather for lunch before heading back to pick up the gift that caught your eye. You’ll leave feeling as if you’ve discovered something more than a store — something heartfelt, genuine, and worth returning to again and again.
Simplee Stated Gifts & The Frame Shoppe is located at 100 W. Garro St., Plymouth. For more information, give them a call at 574-936-5259 or email them at simpleestatedgifts@yahoo.com.
COMMUNITY AT THE COUNTER
THE CHUPP BROTHERS GROW E&S BULK FOODS INTO A SHIPSHEWANA STAPLE
Writer / Meredith Baker Photographer / Jessica Whitehead
Step inside E&S Bulk Foods on State Road 5 in Shipshewana, and the first thing you’ll notice isn’t the neat rows of bulk bins or the scent of fresh pies cooling near the bakery counter — it’s the feeling. A warmth hums through the aisles, somewhere between the quiet rhythm of a small-town morning and the friendly chatter of shoppers swapping recipes.
For locals, E&S isn’t just a grocery store. It’s a gathering place, a reminder that honest food and honest work still anchor the heart of northern Indiana.
Nearly four decades ago, Ervin “Butch” and
Sarah Chupp opened their little country grocery. Now, the second generation of the Chupp family prepares for the store’s next chapter: a move into a brand-new building that will double retail space, bring back a beloved sandwich deli, and carry forward their legacy.
From Basement Beginnings to
a Beloved Landmark
The story of E&S Bulk Foods started in 1970 in the basement of the Chupp home. Ervin and Sarah named their store Forks County Line Store, a nod to the “Forks” area where Elkhart and LaGrange counties meet.
As their business grew, they moved operations into a converted barn before selling to Ervin’s
brother-in-law, Levi Bontrager. But Butch wasn’t one to stay still for long. After a brief stint farming, he felt that pull again — the one that comes when a good idea refuses to sit quietly.
In 1986, he opened a new grocery store next to Eash Sales, a neighboring dry goods store in Shipshewana. He called it E&S Sales, for Ervin and Sarah, and ran it with the help of his sons and daughters.
Business grew fast. By the mid-1990s, the Chupps had built new warehouses, expanded their retail space, and begun employing locals who would remain for decades. Today, the business employs nearly 150 people, several of whom have been with E&S for more than 20 years.
Each one, says co-owner Kenny Chupp, plays a vital role in the store’s success.
“We’ve been blessed with good hardworking people. They’re like family,” Kenny says.
Faith Built on Family
Running a second-generation business is no small feat. Studies show that only about 30% of family-owned companies make it past the founder’s generation. But the five co-owners — brothers Kenny, Jay, and Duane, along with brothers-in-law Merle and Larry — have found a rhythm.
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The brothers are grounded in the values passed down from their parents: faith, fairness, and fellowship.
“The biggest factor in our success is that we all share the same faith in the same God,” Jay says. “That doesn’t mean we always agree. We’re five different personalities, after all. But we know we’re stronger together.”
A commitment to communication, and a shared rule to “leave work at work,” helps keep both the business and the family healthy.
“We don’t drag disagreements home,” Jay says. “That’s not fair to our families. We work it out and move on.”
It’s an ethos that’s kept the business steady over time.
The Store That Feeds Community Walk the aisles of E&S and you’ll find
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everything from bulk baking items and dried herbs to homemade noodles, local honey, and candy by the pound. There are bins of flour and sugar for every holiday pie. Tubs of chocolates are perfect for gift baskets. In season, local produce fills the bins. The smell of bread baking draws a steady stream of regulars who swear by it.
During peak tourist season, the store bustles with out-of-towners exploring the heart of Amish Country. Yet the Chupps never forget who helped them build their foundation.
“Our locals are the backbone,” Jay says. “And we don’t take that for granted.”
A New Chapter Rising
In 2025, the Chupp family broke ground on what will soon become the next home of E&S Bulk Foods — a 128,000-square-foot building just north of their current site. The new space will feature expanded bakery, produce, and deli sections, and the longawaited return of their sandwich counter.
For the Chupps, though, bigger doesn’t mean impersonal. The move is about comfort, efficiency, and continuing to improve their customers’ experience.
“We’re excited,” Kenny says. “We’ve added on so many times over the years that things have gotten tight. This will help us serve everyone better.”
And for Jay, ever the visionary (and self-
proclaimed “foodie”), there’s joy in dreaming about what comes next.
“I’d love to see us do old-fashioned taffy pulls again, maybe even add sushi or smoked meats as daily features,” he says with a grin. “But one step at a time. For now, we’re just grateful for where we are.”
Faith for the Future
These days, E&S isn’t just a second-generation business. The third is already stepping in. Eight of the owners’ children work at the store. They learn the ropes, take on responsibility, and carry the family’s values forward.
That legacy weighs heavily, but in the best way.
“Dad used to worry about us running the business into the ground,” Jay jokes. “Now it’s our turn to worry about them. But honestly, I think they’ll do great.”
As the community grows and Shipshewana continues to draw visitors from around the country, E&S remains exactly what it’s always been: a local anchor built on faith, family, and flour.
“God’s been good to us,” Kenny says. “We’ve been given much, and our goal is to give back — through good food, good service and a good example.”
For the Chupp family, success isn’t measured in square footage or sales, but in the quiet satisfaction of serving others, one scoop, one loaf, one smile at a time.
E&S Bulk Foods is located at 1265 N. State Road 5, Shipshewana, Indiana. For more information, call 260-768-4736 or email eandssales@hotmail.com.
ECHOED ART
THE SOUNDWAVE BOOTH TURNS SPOKEN WORDS INTO LASTING VISUAL KEEPSAKES
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott
Words are powerful. Sounds evoke memories. When words and sound combine to be translated from vocal to visual, the artistic result creates an emotionally moving experience. A treasured message from a loved one can linger for years, and thanks to an inspired business called The Soundwave Booth, any words you want can be captured in the visual art of soundwaves.
Owned and run by Joel and Cindy Pendl, The Soundwave Booth translates a favorite phrase, a celebrated quote or a custom sound into the vertical lines that represent the soundwaves of that particular audible. Before you tap into your fear of hearing your own voice, the Pendls have created a line of products that are premade and ready for purchase.
Joel assures, “You don’t have to use your own voice. We do all the recording in-house.”
The phrases are spoken and then printed in the complex pattern of lines that make up the final visual art. These products have been recorded by the Pendls and translated into a printed version of the soundwaves using high-tech engineering software. With a background in radio and television, Joel uses his technical talent to morph engineering with art. The result is a carefully curated blend of popular phrases and custom prints
to capture a moment in time or personal statement.
The Soundwave Booth offers one-of-akind artwork based on printed words and phrases, from original messages to well-known favorites within the public domain. This line of artwork and accessories is available for purchase “off the shelf,” including phrases like “It is well with my
“Love you to the moon and back,” and “And so together they built a life they loved,” to name a few.
Products laser engraved with this artwork include coasters, cutting boards, baseball caps, keychains, newborn baby beanies with phrases like “You are my sunshine” engraved onto a leather patch, and more. To explore the complete product line of prints and accessories, visit thesoundwavebooth.com.
The Soundwave Booth’s American Flag series offers a selection of patriotic songs and documents displayed as a collection of soundwaves in the pattern of the stars and stripes. Each state abbreviation has been spoken to create the stars, and customers can choose from the Pledge of Allegiance, the Second Amendment, the Star-Spangled Banner and more that make up the stripes of this American Flag artwork.
In addition to preprinted and engraved items, The Soundwave Booth offers custom
products. From unique words or sounds that capture moments such as a baby’s first heartbeat, a pet’s bark or meow, or a final voicemail from a loved one, the Pendls can take any audio a customer has and create a keepsake that will last a lifetime. A QR code can even be added so customers can hear a loved one’s voice any time. One option is a Memorial Card — a metal plate with the custom soundwave and QR code containing the audio clip that can be adhered to a gravesite headstone.
The ordering process is simple, and the product line offers a variety of style choices. Customers choose a print, framed option or accessory for their custom soundwave. All products are created, printed, framed or engraved by the husband-and-wife team.
As unique as each piece of artwork, so is the lifestyle the Pendls have chosen. Living entirely on the road in their camperturned-home-on-wheels-turned-classroom, they have raised and homeschooled their
children, who are now in their teens. Over the years, the couple has traveled to art shows from Florida to California — and many stops in between — creating an educational experience for their children, who have been to all 48 of the lower United States.
Together the Pendls, along with their 15-year-old son, Kaden, and 14-year-old daughter, Avril, call Bass Lake home for much of the summer. All the tools and techniques for their business are portable
and travel with the family — from audio engineering software to everything required to do all of their own printing, product assembly, photography, website management and social media. The couple does everything themselves so they can literally live anywhere.
They enjoy going back on the road to southern states during the winter, where they enjoy the warmer weather while still running their business from home. In fact, they joke that “no one in our family owns
winter clothes, because as the weather changes, so does our location!”
They plan to attend a select number of holiday art and craft shows to continue feeding their nomadic nature, and then after the holidays, they will spend a few months in a mid-Atlantic beach community that has sports facilities their son longs for while traveling. He plans to take a detour from the family travel plan once he turns 18 and attend college, living on campus for
the social and sports aspects of student life. Avril, on the other hand, has expressed a desire to continue traveling once she finishes high school.
The Pendls are committed to creating beautiful artwork made of quality materials while maintaining reasonable prices ($16–$30) so that owning a unique, inspiring soundwave print can be accessible to anyone. Also a priority for the Pendls is creating uplifting artwork that doesn’t profess negativity — something customers notice. “We come as a breath of fresh air to many customers, and that is something we are proud of,” notes Cindy.
Beginning in 2025, the Pendls transformed their traveling art show business into a fully online enterprise. They are in the process of building their online presence and helping people understand how the custom side of their business works — using a customer’s audio of a loved one or beloved pet, etc. — while making sure customers know they
have a full line of products available and ready to ship.
If you are looking for a unique gift this Christmas season — or any time of year — visit thesoundwavebooth.com. The “Custom Soundwaves” tab on the website guides customers through ordering. As a husbandand-wife team, the Pendls are personally available to answer any questions.
Find out more by emailing thesoundwavebooth@gmail.com.
DECEMBER CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ACROSS
1. Act the mendicant
4. Boys, to Burns
8. A bit loopy
12. Questionnaire datum
13. “American ___”
14. Sole
15. Also
16. Whirling water
17. Desist
18. Dug up
20. Hose hue
21. Particular, for short
23. “Concentration” puzzle
25. Modify
27. Toupee, informally
28. ___ now or never 31. Passage preventer 33. Van Morrison classic
Snoop
Dash
38. London’s ___ Court 39. Kathmandu country 41. Friends and neighbors 42. Extinct flock
45. Celebrity ribfest 47. Superior to 48. Deck
49. Chalet site, perhaps
52. Club
53. “Take this!”
54. Born in France?
55. Bounds
56. “Paradise Lost” setting
57. Bonus for waiting
DOWN
1. Cavern sight
2. I problem?
3. High school subject
4. Bank loan security
5. Calculator, at times
6. Go unsteadily
7. Full of guile
8. Doctor’s orders
9. Beginning to freeze?
10. Aggressively publicize
11. Blood category
19. Coffee preference
20. Base caller
21. Pouches
22. Leaky faucet sound
24. Software error
26. Wanders
28. Annoyance
29. List
30. Dress-uniform part
32. Frost’s bite?
34. Thousand ___, Calif.
37. Ruined
39. Expected outcomes
40. River through Tours
42. Spoil, with “on”
43. It’s within your range
44. Word with heat or meat
46. Biblical conclusion
48. French beverage
50. Haole’s souvenir
51. Cheerleader’s asset
BOB ROSS & THE JOY OF PAINTING IN MUNCIE
Writer / Jeff Kenney
Lakes-area readers of an age to remember the earlier days of legendary public television art instructor Bob Ross might have been somewhat surprised at the stature he’s attained nowadays as a nearly ubiquitous, international celebrity, defining an era and a style.
After all, his earlier television programs might be described as quaint: simple of production value, certainly not “high art,” — perhaps even kitsch — right down to his trademark perm-style hair; quiet, unassuming demeanor. His consistent themes of natural landscapes (dotted with “happy little trees,” as he famously dubbed them) and his speedy production of a painting from blank canvas to complete in less than his 30-minute time slot allotted, all of it punctuated by words of encouragement and affirmation for his viewers. A sort of Mr. Rogers of art as everyman therapy.
Bob Ross, years before his television days, teaching art while in the Air Force
But it might surprise many to learn of his strong ties to Indiana — specifically just down the road in nearby Muncie, which most of us in these parts associate almost exclusively with Ball State University.
Even there, there’s a tie to Bob Ross, as the house that became ground zero for Ross’ early TV endeavors once belonged to Lucius L. Ball, one of the Ball brothers best known for making their fortunes in the canning jar industry, though their philanthropy, of course, also generated the university which bears their name.
So how did an worldwide cultural icon like Bob Ross wind up in the Hoosier State, which was not his home state (he hailed originally from the area of Daytona Beach, Florida)? The route was perhaps an unlikely one.
Born in 1942, Bob Ross had a love of nature from his youth, inspired partly by the love his mother, Ollie, had for animals.
Ross completed only the 9th grade in school before dropping out to apprentice with his carpenter father, Jack, which is how part of one of Bob’s fingers was cut off.
At 18, young Bob Ross joined the Air Force, taking art lessons at a USO club on the base in Alaska at which he was stationed. He made money on the side
painting landscapes on souvenir gold pans while his service continued. He retired as a master sergeant some 20 years later (it might further surprise readers to learn that Ross’s stint in the military involved his needing to yell and intimidate those under him in order to get jobs done, something he vowed not to do once he retired).
Back in Florida, Ross was exposed to a painting technique which would prove critical to his future television project: the “wet-on-wet” approach involved applying wet paint to an already wet surface, creating soft edges and transitions, especially helpful in rendering natural landscapes like skies. It also helped facilitate a faster painting process, which would prove advantageous later for Ross.
Already having taught painting while in the Air Force, Ross worked as a tutor and traveling salesman once back in Florida, where one of his students pooled her and her husband’s money with that of Ross and his wife to start Ross’ company (his trademark permanent hairstyle — which Ross later admitted he’d never liked — was actually the result of cost-cutting efforts, though it would become permanent as part of the company’s logo).
A Virginia TV station recorded one of Ross’ painting lessons and aired it, prompting
some 60 PBS affiliate stations to sign on to carry the show. That was 1982, and as fate would have it, in 1983 co-investor Annette Kowalski booked Ross on a national tour of painting workshops which included the Indiana town of Muncie. Ross and company’s purchase of advertisements on Muncie’s PBS station, WIPB, paid off: his workshop was sold out by the time Ross’ camper arrived in Muncie.
Ross felt a surge of kindred spirits alive in the Muncie community and he and Kowalski made arrangements for his show, The Joy of Painting, to be filmed at local PBS affiliate WIPB, which was situated in the aforementioned Lucius Ball house, made of yellow brick and located at what would become Muncie’s museum and cultural center, Minnetrista, which was founded by descendants of the Ball Brothers.
As described on its website at minnetrista. net, the facilities encompass a “spacious
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forty-acre campus and beautiful gardens, a nature area, a museum facility, a permanent museum collection and archive, historic homes, children’s play areas, and a portion of the White River Greenway.”
The facility hosts a “year-round roster of educational programs, engaging workshops,
community events, and interactive exhibitions (and welcomes) tens of thousands of visitors each year and offer something new to experience on every visit,” according to the site.
From his first-floor studio, Ross quietly and gently took his TV audience through the process of creating a landscape painting marked by encouraging his viewers in (to quote the Minnetrista website again) “fearless creativity and life-affirming compassion.”
Ross, who did the show free of charge (making money instead from the sale of books, videos, and art supplies), taped each episode in Muncie even through his return move to Florida in 1989, the year after filming of The Joy of Painting had moved to a more modern filming space on the Ball State campus than the former farmhouse that became Minnetrista had been, though Ross admitted he missed the original space). Even after moving, he still made
the trek to Muncie every three months to tape new episodes, an arrangement which continued until the show’s original run ended on May 17, 1994.
Ross, who painted an estimated 30,000 paintings during his lifetime, did not live long beyond the final episode of The Joy of Painting. He died on July 4, 1994, at just 52 years of age of lymphoma, which he kept a secret to most people outside his family and close circle of friends (he had, in fact, prepared paintings for a planned 32nd season of the show).
was Ross, and an array of digital services have offered it in the years since, generating legions of fans.
Somehow, his persona, technique, and memory, though, are timeless. In the decade that the show aired, a generation grew up watching the unlikely legend that
According to an article on beltmag.com, “Bob Ross Was Here,” by Ashley Stimpson, the famous blue “X” on the floor of Ross’ art studio — marking where he should stand when creating paintings — somehow
was left untouched long after his passing.
Writes Stimpson: “Every so often, George Buss, Minnetrista’s Vice President of Visitor Experience, would point it out to a guest. Their reactions always surprised him. ‘People would cry,’ he told me. ‘Lots of people would ask if they could stand on it.’ Betty Brewer, President and CEO of Minnetrista, experienced something similar when she mentioned the house in passing to some visitors from the Indiana Arts Commission on an abbreviated, after-hours tour. ‘Everyone freaked out,’ she recalled. ‘They couldn’t believe it.’”
Such experiences led the staff to create a permanent museum experience including a “recreated WIPB-TV studio, a 1980s living room similar to those where so many welcomed Bob Ross into their homes, a gallery space designed for specially curated shows, and a workshop space designed to host Bob Ross Painting Workshops. The exhibition is also home to many
original artifacts from Bob’s career, including his easel, palette, and brushes,” writes the the Minnetrista website. Opened in the fall of 2020, “The Bob Ross Experience” in Muncie is the only museum in the world dedicated to Ross.
As Stimpson notes, the museum will not only serve fans of Ross worldwide, but Hoosiers in the Muncie area who remember him having a home there, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, and assisting local fundraisers by donating his paintings (which are surprisingly rare on the art market, as he tended to keep them out of the commercial market, meaning many today are highly monetarily valued).
children’s show, “The Adventures of Elmo and Friends.”
Bob Ross’ final television appearance was on the 1995 premiere episode of the
Hours (Feb 17 - Dec 31): Monday 12PM -6PM Tuesday-Thursday 10AM-6PM Friday 10AM-5PM Saturday 10AM-3PM
As the show closes, Ross’ final words for his audience, after offering them “just thanks,” were fittingly similar to the end of many of the episodes of his own show: “One day soon our paths may cross again. Until then, God bless, my friend.”
THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS
Writer / Miranda Medeiros
When I think of Christmas I think of falling snow, Frank Sinatra, singing happy birthday to Jesus (hmm...maybe this is just my family?) and of course the claymation originals of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.
It seemed to be that for a few years there Christmas had shifted. The focus went from festivities and a celebration of Christ and all things good in our lives, to how many people you can see at once to get it over with. There was a real shift in the atmosphere all over the world. But recently I’ve noticed websites and sales advertising for a “vintage” Christmas, with the old rosey cheeked Santa and a focus on hosting and time well spent rather than money spent.
This couldn’t be more exciting, especially for a store that has such an emphasis
on hosting, and cherishing the seasons. Unlike most places, the New Kitchen Store is a firm believer in decorating for what season we are in, soaking up every wonder that time of year has to offer.
We don’t display any Christmas decorations or products until our Annual Christmas Open house, which is Saturday November 29 this year. But once Thanksgiving is over, the magic of Christmas is truly a sight to behold here with sparkling Christmas trees, magnificent Christmas dinnerware sets, and of course a jolly tune to carry the ambiance throughout the store making it something to truly behold.
When the seasons and holidays get rushed by pulling everything out in September, it can sometimes take away the magic of such a special time of year. It’s cherished and enjoyed by most people so it’s understandable why such a thing
happens, but sometimes we appreciate the things we have the least of in our lives because of its rarity and awe. Taking the time to enjoy the fall and everything it has to offer is a good way to slow down and appreciate the now.
However, now that Halloween and Thanksgiving are over we welcome our big beautiful Christmas with adoring arms to let its merriment and excitement fill us with the hope of a holiday that represents such a gift of life. A baby born with a mission of saving the world and spreading love and light to all, how can such a beautiful story go without stirring such feelings in a heart?
Let that feeling of love and joy flow through you this season allowing you to open your heart and kitchen to all who enter so that everyone can feel that same joy. The holidays can go one way or another depending on what your focus is,
they can be a time of stress or a source of great joy and memories made with those who matter the most at the core of our lives. This Christmas season, I hope that all of you can focus on the good that is happening in this season rather than the background noise.
So I raise my coffee cup to you all and will leave you with a few words to wish a beautiful winter season into your life. Let’s make this season filled with toasty drinks poured and shared with family and friends to represent our cups overflowing.
Let’s enjoy great food and charcuterie boards packed to the brim only to be picked clean and shared over belly laughs and moments that will last forever in our minds. I hope the snow brings back the childlike wonder that such a thing as a snowflake could exist, and that for all the care and thought that went into creating a snowflake even more was poured into you.
I hope the Christmas lights you see feel extra spectacular and twinkle like stars in your eye, reminding us of a star that once burned bright in the sky to lead others to the light of the world. All in all, I hope you have the most wonderful Christmas
this year full of merriment and a grateful heart beyond words. Truly, from our hearts and kitchens to yours.
Please stop in to New Kitchen Store anytime Monday-Saturday 9-6pm EST
with the exception of some holiday hours. We would love to share a cup of coffee and assist in picking out special items for your loved ones this season. Call us at 574-586-2745 or email at nks@ newkitchenstore.com with any questions!
HOME STARTS HERE
PLYMOUTH FURNITURE & MATTRESS MAKES HOME FURNITURE SHOPPING PERSONAL & STRESS-FREE
he best furniture stores do more than sell sofas. They help people picture a life at home that feels comfortable, useful, and beautiful. That’s the promise at Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, led by owners Michael Bright and Kaden Rody.
Bright and Rody didn’t set out to own a second store this soon. They had recently opened Wabash Furniture & Mattress when a trusted sales rep shared a tip.
“A guy named Alan Fritz and his sister Marilyn Banfich owned it, and their dad had started the business,” Bright says. “They were wanting an exit strategy. They wanted to retire, and our La-Z-Boy rep came to us and said, ‘They were looking to step back, and we were looking to grow.’” Following the purchase, the store formerly known as Banfich Furniture became Plymouth Furniture & Mattress.
Customers who frequented the former store can still find the brands they’ve loved for years, with deeper inventory and an expanded service mindset. Bright puts it plainly: “We’re in it for the long haul … I’m only 37 and Kaden is 21, and we plan to do this till we retire.”
The store layout makes it easy to imagine a finished space. Vignettes are built with tables, lamps, rugs and pillows so you can see how pieces work together. Bring a pillow from home or a fabric swatch. Snap a few photos of your room. The staff encourages it.
Many furniture pieces can be customized, including fabric choices, arm styles, wood finishes, and sizes that fit your real room, not just
Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Tony Straw
Marilyn Banfitch, Owner- Michael Bright, Owner- Kaden Rody, Siara Simon, and George Christ.
a showroom. Plymouth Furniture carries lines the region knows and trusts — La-Z-Boy, Ashley, Bernhardt, Archbold VaughanBassett, Liberty, John Thomas, Uttermost, Oriental Weavers, Hunter Douglas, Carole Fabrics, and more.
Mattress shoppers can compare national leaders such as TempurPedic, Stearns & Foster, Sealy, and Serta.
Plymouth Furniture’s secret sauce might be a familiar name. Marilyn Banfich stayed on after the sale to continue the in-home design services that have helped local families for decades. Bright can’t help but smile when he talks about her. He explains that Marilyn has designed everything from custom bunk beds to full built-ins, noting that “she does everything. She’s got over 40 years of experience.”
When you work with Marilyn, the process is simple but personal. An appointment begins with a modest $200 deposit that goes directly toward your purchase—no extra design fee. She can meet you in the store, trade ideas by email or step into your home to take measurements and see the space firsthand.
From there, she brings in her decades of experience with window treatments, flooring, paint, lighting and the furniture that ties it all together. Customers appreciate her ability to listen closely and turn a
wish list into a plan.
If you prefer to shop on your own, that’s welcome too. The floor is set with mix-and-match settings so you can compare a sofa with different chairs and tables. The team can help you double-check clearances for doorways and stairwells and talk through layout choices before anything arrives at your home.
Bright has experienced stores where a salesperson shadows your every step, which is why he trains against it. “We’re not shadow stalkers,” he says with a laugh. “Some people don’t want help. Some do.” The team will greet you, ask how they can help, then give you room to breathe.”
Service extends past the purchase. Delivery is free within 50 miles, and the crew will set up your furniture and remove the unwanted pieces you’re replacing. The personal help continues when special circumstances pop up. Bright shares simple examples: a customer needed a purchase dropped off at a son’s house, so the team made the extra stop. Another family needed help shifting heavy pieces from one room to another to make space for new items. “Other stores don’t do that,” Bright says. “That’s the personal touch that we have.”
Quality furniture is truly an investment. The store partners with Synchrony for customers with strong credit who want long promotional plans, and with Acima and similar leasing programs for shoppers building credit. Promotions change with the season, but the goal stays the same—spread out payments while you enjoy the furniture now.
If you’re new to financing, the staff will lay out the differences between interest-free promotions and lease-to-own plans, then help you choose what fits.
Bright hears it all the time — mattress shopping can feel overwhelming. He suggests a calm, simple approach. Start by deciding whether you prefer firm, medium, or plush. He encourages customers to try a few firm mattresses, then a few medium, then a few plush models.
P.J. Gilsinger & Co.
“Just lie down on them and try it,” he says. “You’ll know more quickly than you think.”
No one rushes you at Plymouth Furniture & Mattress. You are welcome to take notes and return the next day to view or test your finalists again. The store keeps popular brands in stock, making it possible for most furniture items and mattresses to be delivered quickly.
Bright is aware that delivery is often where furniture shopping goes wrong at other stores. At Plymouth Furniture, reviews show it’s
Gilsinger family museum will explain the history of the oldest John Deere Dealer in the world at it’s original store location. Since 1899 The Gilsinger family has served farmers in our area.
Farm Equipment • Local School Memorabilia • WWII Artifacts • Early Household and Farming Tools • Several Unusual Exhibits
• 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
where the experience shines.
The level of care, combined with free delivery and haul-away service, helps explain why so many shoppers drive from other towns to purchase from Plymouth Furniture & Mattress.
If you like to plan ahead, Plymouth Furniture offers a short “quickstart” list that really helps:
Measurements: jot down wall lengths, ceiling height, and door clearances. Measure the piece you’re replacing, too.
Simple floor plan: a sketch on notebook paper is fine. Mark windows, doors, and traffic paths.
Photos: a few snapshots of the room in daytime light tell the staff a lot about your style.
Swatches: bring a cushion or pillow if you’re matching existing tones.
Budget range: a flexible target keeps choices focused and avoids disappointment later.
There are often manufacturer specials tied to holidays. The team will tell you when a favorite line will run a promotion so you can
time your purchase well.
Customers visit from Bremen, Culver, Rochester, Knox, South Bend, Mishawaka and beyond. Part of that is selection, part is service, and the rest is logistics. With two locations — Plymouth and Wabash — the company enjoys the economies of scale that keep inventory deep and deliveries moving. Their warehouses hold far more than a single store can carry, which shortens wait times.
Bright also sees Plymouth Furniture as a neighbor, not just a retailer. The team supports local nonprofits, churches and community events. They contribute to school raffles and
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22” Tall Side Plates for improved strength and better gravel handling
• 72” Long Side Plates for improved leveling
• ½” AR235 Wear Plates
• Replaceable AR235 Cutting Edge
• Cam Blade Hold-Down for extreme forces Adjustable Blade Depth Double Quick Attach Plate to eliminate long stretches of back drag
• Skidsteer Attachment
• No hydraulics needed
• Available Widths: 72”, 84” (shown)
• Dimensions: 72” L x 22” H
• Materials: ¼” Heavy Gauge Steel Tube Construction
volunteer their time to community projects.
The store’s design work doesn’t stop at the front door. The team has furnished community spaces, lodge-style gathering rooms, and lake homes that welcome summer guests. They know that bunk rooms often need special attention since many families want sturdy built-ins with a clean look and durable finishes.
At Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, special attention is paid to all projects. Marilyn coordinates with painters, flooring installers and window-treatment pros so timelines make sense and projects stay on track.
If your plans are modest, you still get the same care.
Currently, recliners and lift chairs are two of the most popular items from the store’s vast selection. Those with features that make daily life easier — power headrests, lumbar support, USB ports, and gentle stand-assist — are particularly in demand. Sectionals continue to shine, with open floor plans being so common in homes now.
As we head into the holidays, Mike advises shoppers to watch for Black Friday, December, and year-end promotions. The store posts specials online and in-store.
• Boat Covers
• Boat Enclosures
• Boat Lift Covers
• Custom Trucker Tie Down Straps
• Rollease Shade Systems
• Overhead Door Screens
• Trampoline Mats
• Bimini Tops
It is well-known that retail cultures are built by everyday habits. At Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, one habit stands out — respect for how customers like to shop. Bright returns to the idea often with standards such as no pushy chatter, no hovering, help when you want it, space when you don’t. From the first look to the final setup, the staff stays focused on comfort, function and value.
Bright and Rody are building their company in ways that will make it last.
Open the front door and you’ll feel it — easy smiles, tidy displays, and a pace that lets you think.
“Openness and friendliness, I guess would be my first thought,” Bright says.
Visit Plymouth Furniture & Mattress at 2127 N. Oak Dr., Plymouth, IN. For more information, give them a call at 574-9361299 or visit them online at plymouthfm.com.
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Explore the 2024 Lineup
Providing Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy
1415 Lincolnway West, Osceola, IN
EMPOWERING EVERY DAY
MARSHALL-STARKE DEVELOPMENT CENTER
CHAMPIONS INCLUSION & OPPORTUNITY
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Morning sunlight filters across activity tables at Marshall-Starke Development Center, where the day begins not with assignments, but
with choices. One person has signed up for art, another for cooking, and another for community volunteering. A few review a new job lead with their placement consultant. Each decision represents something powerful — ownership of the day and confidence in individual abilities.
That sense of purpose has defined Marshall-Starke Development Center (MSDC) for more than six decades. What began in the 1960s as a small group of determined parents seeking better opportunities for their children with developmental and physical disabilities has grown into a thriving organization serving hundreds of individuals each year. Today, MSDC operates programs in Plymouth, Rochester, Knox, and Bremen. It offers both facility-based and residential services for adults, as well as Head Start and Early Head Start programs for children and families.
Many have worked side by side with participants for years, celebrating
each milestone and encouraging every goal.
Jessye Gilley, VP of Mission Advancement, describes the heart of MSDC’s work in two words: inclusion and belonging.
“Inclusion isn’t just being present in a space,” she says. “It means feeling that you’re part of something — that you’re valued and have a voice.”
Her days brim with activity — coordinating community partnerships, connecting with families and planning events that
celebrate achievement. But what she treasures most is watching participants discover new interests and confidence through the choices they make.
“When someone realizes they can contribute — whether through art, cooking, or volunteering — you see that spark,” she says. “It’s joy and pride rolled into one.”
Rick Thompson, CEO and president, shares that same passion for empowerment and inclusion, viewing his work through the lens of leadership and legacy.
“We focus on ability, not disability,” he says. “Our role is to help each person find their place in the community and build the skills and confidence to stay engaged.”
In describing MSDC’s culture, both Jessye and Rick emphasize the same guiding idea: belonging. Every day brings countless small moments of connection — a greeting between friends, a shared laugh in the hallway discussing recent accomplishments.
Those daily experiences, they agree, shape the heart of the Center.
“When people see our participants at local businesses or helping at events, they see ability, kindness, and determination,” Rick says. “That changes perceptions — and communities.”
Participants are often recognized not only as volunteers but also as valued employees in workplaces throughout the region, proving every day that they have a vital role to play in the local economy.
The performing arts program is a perfect example of how growth happens in meaningful ways. Whether painting or performing, the creative process allows participants to express themselves and connect with others.
“Art gives voice to emotions that words can’t always capture,” Jessye explains. “It’s powerful to watch someone who was once hesitant to try new things be selected as a solo vocalist in a performance and realize they have something beautiful to share.”
While artwork is no longer displayed throughout the building, the Center continues to celebrate creativity through partnerships with the Heartland Art Center, where the performing arts program is warmly supported.
Phil McFarland, who co-leads the performing arts program at MSDC and also serves as the organization’s sign language interpreter, witnesses that creative spirit every day. Working alongside Tabitha Johnson, the performing arts coordinator, they guide rehearsals, develop scripts, and help participants grow more comfortable expressing themselves on stage.
“Performance helps people build confidence,” Phil says. “When someone steps on stage — maybe to sing, act, or recite a poem — they’re not just performing; they’re discovering their voice.”
Their programs emphasize collaboration and self-expression, encouraging participants to find new ways to communicate and celebrate individuality. Whether through music or movement, the outcome is the same — confidence, connection, and pride. Beyond the arts, the Center’s reach extends into every aspect of daily living. Many participants hold paying jobs within the community, working in restaurants, grocery stores, manufacturing, and custodial settings. MSDC’s employment specialists provide training and ongoing support to ensure long-term success.
“We work side by side with employers,” Rick says. “They tell us over and over how much they appreciate the reliability and strong work ethic of our participants.”
In April, MSDC officially discontinued its in-house workshop program to further expand opportunities for community employment.
“This change reflects our goal of helping participants realize their potential as community workers earning equal wages alongside their neurotypical peers,” Jessye explains. “It’s about inclusion, equality, and belonging in the truest sense.”
Residential programs are another cornerstone of MSDC’s mission. In supervised homes throughout the area, adults live as independently as possible with staff available for guidance and assistance.
“It’s about dignity and choice,” Rick explains. “We want every person to make their own decisions about where and how they live — just like anyone else.”
Participants shop for groceries, cook meals, keep up with chores, and enjoy community outings, supported by staff who encourage self-sufficiency. None of this would be possible without the dedicated DSPs, whose compassion, patience, and daily commitment bring the Center’s mission to life. Many have worked side by side with participants for years, celebrating every milestone and encouraging every goal. These professionals are the steady presence behind each success, offering guidance, respect, and encouragement that
help participants thrive. Weekends might include trips to the park, bowling, or dining out with friends. Many residents also hold regular jobs during the week, demonstrating that independence and productivity go hand in hand. The homes are not just places to stay — they’re places to belong.
Jessye notes that relationships are at the center of everything they do.
“Families trust us because they see that we genuinely care,” she says. “When a parent of an adult participant tells me their son or daughter can’t wait to come here every morning, that means we’re doing something right.”
Her outreach team regularly meets with schools, civic groups, and volunteers to build understanding and collaboration across the community.
MSDC’s commitment to growth begins early. Through its Head Start and Early Head Start programs, the organization supports children and families with early learning, health and family-engagement services. These initiatives give young children the foundation they need for a lifetime of learning while connecting parents with resources and encouragement.
“It’s a continuum of care,” Rick says. “From early childhood to
adulthood, we want to provide the tools and opportunities people need to reach their potential.”
Across every department, the philosophy remains the same: everyone deserves respect, purpose, and connection.
“We measure success not just in numbers,” Jessye reflects, “but in moments — when someone smiles because they learned something new or accomplished a goal that once felt out of reach.”
As the morning sunlight moves across the tables, the Center hums with quiet purpose. Paintbrushes dip into color, the aroma of baking fills the kitchen, and a volunteer group gathers to head out for the day. Others prepare for their shifts at local businesses, proud to show the community and their peers what they have to offer as individuals and employees. Each person has chosen their path, confident in their place within this community of belonging.
Marshall-Starke Development Center stands as more than a service provider. It is a place where belonging is lived out daily through creativity, connection, and the belief that every person has something meaningful to give.
To learn more or get involved, visit msdcin.org.
BOURBON OUTDOORS
Hours of Operation M-Th: 8:00am - 4:30pm Friday & Saturday: 8:00am - 12:30pm
Writer / Mike Dikos
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Bartender. Barkeep. Mixologist. Sommelier. To some, therapist. These are all ways to describe that person who can prepare your favorite cocktail to perfection or pour you a tall cold one with just the right amount of foam. If you have the need to wet your whistle—or just desire some lively conversation—head over to the Bass Lake Pub, where you will be greeted with the warm smile and friendly demeanor of Amy Coldiron, operating behind the bar.
Born and raised in North Judson, Amy is no stranger to Starke County. With family members who have roots and business ties in the area, her choice to plant her own roots was an easy one. Her work ethic is evident in her daily approach—one shaped by advice received at a young age: “Be nice to people and they will be nice to you.”
Sound wisdom from her parents that we could all take to heart today.
At the age of 21, she took her first bartending job at a local North Judson establishment, The Wooden Nickel. Her first round of formal training consisted of being thrown behind the bar and told, “Learn how to deal with the people and the rest will just come to you.” Baptism by fire, so to speak. When you talk to her, you can tell she learned very well.
Fast-forward 26 years to today. With that much experience behind
FINEST
OUTDOOR LIVING
the bar, Amy is a seasoned pro. In addition to crafting your drink of choice, she’s also mastered the most important part of bartending— the ability to deal with people.
“I have met a lot of people over the years,” Amy says. “Many are now friends that I treat as if they are family.”
Not everyone stops by just for a drink. Some come for a friendly voice and an attentive ear. Sometimes, that’s all people need to
brighten their day.
Having settled in at the Bass Lake Pub for the last 10 years, Amy has come to know her clientele well. She has her regular crowd and can tell if something seems amiss. If it does, she’ll give them a call to make sure everything is all right—a true sign of someone who cares.
“Friends make this job easy,” Amy says.
New patrons receive the same welcoming treatment that Amy has perfected. Making everyone feel at home comes naturally to her. Many of her customers are seasonal, but that doesn’t stop her from getting to know them. Even if she doesn’t know someone’s name, she certainly knows what they drink.
Raised in Starke County and trained at local establishments, Amy— with her charismatic personality—has become a community favorite. Whether it’s win, place or show, she’s been voted Favorite Bartender in Starke County several years in a row, a testament to her impact on patrons and the community alike.
With the precision of a chemist, Amy knows exactly how to mix the perfect drink. Whether it’s a Chocolate Martini, Banana Banshee or Dancing Frog, she’ll shake and stir it to perfection to satisfy your
eager palate. Visiting from across the pond? She can pour the perfect pint too.
Working hand in hand with the talented kitchen and waitstaff of the Pub, Amy can also take your food order and ensure your meal pairs perfectly with your drink.
Whether you crave a cold one after a long day, a flawlessly mixed cocktail with dinner, or simply a caring ear after a rough week, Amy Coldiron is the one to turn to.
Come see her in action at the Bass Lake Pub, where you’ll always be welcomed by that radiant smile and charismatic disposition.
FRESH FINISH
CORECLEAN RESTORES FLOORS WITH CARE & COMMITMENT
Writer / Amy Beaucham
There’s a special kind of satisfaction in watching a dull, tired floor turn bright again. That’s the moment Connor Rains loves most. He owns CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing in Plymouth, where before-and-after results tell the story of careful work, high standards and respect for a customer’s home.
Rains came to floor care from agriculture in 2020 when Lowry’s Carpet Care called him in for an interview. He started as a technician, learned every part of the job and moved into management. After about three years, the previous owner was ready to slow down. That’s when Rains stepped forward.
“CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing is a company built on hard work, high standards and a deep respect for the people and places we serve,” Rains says.
The rebrand carried local roots forward with fresh energy and a clear promise: do the job right.
At this stage, Rains is involved in every job in some capacity, ensuring standards remain consistent. He carries forward the goodwill built by Lowry’s 30-year history while guiding CoreClean along a path focused on trust over size. He would rather be known as the most trusted than the biggest, and his practices reflect that choice.
CoreClean serves both residential and commercial clients
with a thoughtful menu of services: carpet and upholstery cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, stone and LVT cleaning, area rug cleaning and hardwood floor refinishing. The team also offers deodorizing, pet odor removal and maintenance plans for homes and businesses that want dependable, scheduled care.
Customers often ask what makes professional cleaning different from do-it-yourself methods. CoreClean runs a truck-mounted system that operates around 200 degrees with strong PSI for deep extraction. Rental units simply cannot match that heat or suction, which affects how clean the fibers get and how fast they dry. Rains matches the process to the surface, then chooses safe, effective solutions. He doesn’t buy harsh products. Everything is made in the United States, selected to leave no residue, and he has even toured the manufacturer’s facility to see quality firsthand.
He believes honest guidance is part of great service. Some stains are permanent, even after sanitation and improvement. When that happens, he tests, shows the results and sets clear expectations. For hardwood floors, he looks at the wear layer and grain exposure to decide if a deep clean will suffice or if sanding and refinishing are needed. His goal is to help customers choose the option that truly protects their investment.
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.
Two services are in especially high demand right now: carpet cleaning and hardwood refinishing. The carpet process lifts embedded dirt, oils and allergens that regular vacuuming leaves behind, improving appearance and indoor freshness. For hardwood, a careful refinish brings back richness and depth while sealing the surface for durability. One favorite project involved a four-year-old hardwood floor that had turned cloudy. After refinishing, it looked terrific and completely changed the feel of the room. CoreClean’s approach is family-rooted and community-minded. Rains and his wife, Samantha, live on a small farm with their children, Wesley and Caroline, where caring for animals and tending the property keep life full. Samantha has supported him from the beginning, often pitching in on jobs when needed. He calls her “a good set of hands,” and says her eye for detail and his parents’ steady example shaped the way he works today.
Community connections extend beyond CoreClean’s customer base. Rains participates in a local business networking group and trades referrals, a practical way to keep resources close to home. It fits his long-term vision for steady, sustainable growth. Rather than chase every new service, he wants to deepen what CoreClean already does best.
Over the next five years, he plans to build a full-time refinishing crew, run two or three cleaning crews and eventually open an office in Warsaw. Through it all, he keeps the focus where it belongs: results, reliability, communication and care.
Customers notice. Reviewer Bobbie Mike
Tim Day, MD
Alexa Good, FNP-C
Morgan Faanes, DPM
Sandra Ringer, LCSW, RPT-S
Dan Anderson, MD
Milliser says, “They did a professional job. They were on time and done quickly.”
That simple summary checks off three boxes most homeowners care about: quality, punctuality and respect for the customer’s day.
The words Rains uses to sum up his standard are plain but powerful: “We do whatever it takes to make sure the customer is satisfied.”
It’s a promise backed by skill, strong equipment and a willing spirit. Floors come back brighter. Homes feel refreshed. Businesses welcome clients with a clean, confident first step. CoreClean makes that happen one careful job at a time.
CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing is located at 14515 5th Rd. in Plymouth, IN. For more information, call 574-341-0964 or email connor.rains@yourcoreclean.com.
DECEMBER AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025
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
4:30 – 6:30 p.m. - New Kitchen Store Farmers Market. Please visit our online store and don’t forget to like us on Facebook! facebook. com/NewKitchenStore
KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse is the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public and start at 6:30 p.m. Come and join us and find out how you can volunteer in the community. You can also find out what is going on around Koontz Lake.
Koontz Lake Lions Club meet every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Meetings are open the public.
2
6 p.m. - Koontz Lake Conservancy District Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Interested parties may join remotely by calling (240) 591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted, or via web at
https://join.freeconferencecall. com/klcdboardmeeting.
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5 p.m. – Koontz Lake Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Koontz Lake Fire Station located at 7784 N Highway 23, Walkerton, IN.
Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! The rental fee is $100 for non-members, $75 for members with a $65 deposit that is refunded if no damage occurs to the clubhouse. If interested, please contact Cathy at 219-229-4424. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.
Bremen/Lake of the Woods
ALL times listed are Eastern.
6
5:30 – 8 p.m. – Santa at the Lake at the BCC Building, 4374 North Shore Drive, Bremen
20
9 a.m. – BCC Meeting at the BCC Building, 4374 North Shore Drive, Bremen
Knox/Bass Lake/Starke County
ALL Times listed are Central Time
6
3:30 p.m. – City of Knox Peppermint Parade Lake
Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County
ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.
EVERY SATURDAY
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Culver Farmers Market. For more updates, you can follow The Culver Farmers Market is also on Facebook and IG @ culverfarmersmarket.
EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY
8:30 a.m. – Yoga at the Beach Lodge, all levels are welcome. Chair yoga is at 10 a.m.
5-6
Culver Holiday Weekend. Check out www.findculver.com for a schedule of events.
13
Christmas Spectacular & Craft Show
12-14
Culver Christmas Basket Packing
Knox - Winamac Community Health Center
Roger Farris, NP
John Bulger , MD
Lesley Metts, NP Lori Truesdell, LCSW
Kyla Schreck, NP
