Bremen Village Shops Supports Local Entrepreneurs
SHADE
PUBLISHERS
JOHN & MANDI LEWANDOWSKI john@townepost.com
mandi@townepost.com (463) 466-5969
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
MEREDITH BAKER
AMY BEAUCHAM
JUBILEE EDGELL
MELISSA GIBSON
PRESLEY JANE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
JEFF KENNEY
AMY LANT-WENGER KARI LIPSCOMB
MIRANDA MEDEIROS
KRISTI SELLERS
DARCIE DODDS SCHOTT TONY STRAW
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488
PRESIDENT
JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK
CREATIVE DIRECTORS
AUSTIN TONI EADS
EDITOR
JOSH BROWN
DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SKYLAR ANDERTON
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
BLOOMING SUCCESS
BLOOMFIELD SCHOOLHOUSE LAVENDER INSPIRES GROWING ENTERPRISE
Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender is, well, exactly what the name says — a historic schoolhouse located among fields of lavender. And this is only part of the success story of the charming business presence in LaGrange.
After a career move brought owner Marion Wiggins to Indiana from Texas, the possibilities were endless for a new chapter in life for the mother of three. With her husband, Greg, relocating to LaGrange for work as a nurse anesthetist, the couple put down roots in the close-knit community. During daily drives with their twins, Annie and George, to explore the area, Wiggins found herself drawn to what she refers to as “an eyesore on the side of a well-traveled highway that all travelers see.”
When the property came on the market, the couple made the purchase that would build a new path as entrepreneurs and business owners.
The first addition for the new owners was a garden. They considered goji berries, saffron and lavender. But lavender was the winner and became the star of the garden. After three years of navigating early entrepreneurship, Wiggins found her farming groove selling at farmers markets. Her children helped in the booth in return for funding their new backyard playhouse. Anyone in sales knows that
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott
Photographer / Kari Lipscomb
incentives drive activity, and this one worked for Wiggins.
The bundles and wreaths sold out in the first hour, and Wiggins set her sights on expanding the lavender product line. She started making handcrafted soaps, and things quickly grew from there. At the Shipshewana Farmers Market, she introduced culinary items, a men’s skin care line, products for children and pet care items.
She researched varieties of lavender and how to cultivate them to provide just the right cycles of bloom to support her robust business and joined the U.S. Lavender Growers Association.
and updating, which introduced challenges at nearly every turn. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management required a new well to replace the one installed in 2021. The Indiana Department of Transportation didn’t approve of the driveway, and the list went on.
properly to create a healthy, long future for her family and the community.
The schoolhouse desperately needed repairs
But Wiggins was determined to do the restoration right, and she respected the process to ensure all the work was done
The fields at the schoolhouse and the offsite field were full of 3,000 lavender plants when another opportunity arose. Wiggins’ husband found another historic building in downtown LaGrange that was for sale, and the couple had a new entrepreneurial idea for a robust apothecary. They purchased the stately brick building in August 2024, and by November they opened the doors of Bloomfield Lavender Apothecary and Retail Shop.
They curated a line of gift items and, of course, a variety of lavender products. The business was profitable from day one, and Wiggins cites the success due in no small part to the community.
“The community support has been amazing. Local bakers, candle makers, potters for custom mugs, master herbalists, a local winery — all of these collaborations have brought a sense of connectedness to the business.”
Like the schoolhouse, the downtown storefront needed careful restoration, and once again Wiggins did not take the process lightly. She describes their role as “stewards of the buildings, restoring them so their life can be extended. Restoration, renovation and preservation for future generations to appreciate and create more history.”
This thoughtful approach to business hasn’t gone unnoticed. Wiggins received a $250,000 USDA grant — only three are awarded in the entire state of Indiana in 2025 — for a three-pronged project. The grant is directed
to fund robust marketing, packaging design and the expansion of staff by two additional employees in 2027 and 2028.
The business is poised to optimize the grant funding based on its existing track record. In late 2025, on the one-year anniversary of the shop, people lined up at 8:30 a.m. for the 10 a.m. opening. A wine collaboration with Acres Away Winery produced 48 cases, all of which were sold by the end of the month.
Wiggins has developed a seasonal line of carefully crafted products that sell year-round. These include Lavender Pear and Green Tea, Strawberry and Marshmallow shampoo and conditioner, body spray, lotion and candles created by a local candlemaker. The town’s dog boarding facility carries the Bloomfield line of pet products. The neighbor across the street has done some of the business’s millwork. Multiple coffee shops and restaurants use its culinary products. Items can also be found in more than 12 boutiques and spas.
Wiggins says what drives her focus in finding new ways to grow the lavender line of products is intentional inclusion.
“I embrace diversity and collaboration, keeping production as close as possible, so that we bring economic advantages to our community.”
The schoolhouse will begin its last phase of restoration in June. Summer will also find Wiggins hosting agricultural tours as a working farm, educating visitors about the different plant varieties, their uses and their history, and concluding the tour at the apothecary for lavender snacks and crafts.
By the fall, the business will have 9,000 lavender plants. With restoration complete and the fields literally blossoming, the schoolhouse will serve as a historic, unique multipurpose venue.
The building’s primary function will be lavender drying and oil distillation, with
expanding uses including classes, yoga, and availability for fall festivals, a Christmas open house and community meetings. Wiggins already has a schoolhouse wedding booked for one lucky couple.
Wiggins has deepened her community involvement by mentoring a high school senior and guest-teaching a math class at LaGrange High School, weaving in her experience as an entrepreneur and business owner. She hopes to add high school and college internships to the ways the business contributes to the community.
Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender invites visitors with a billboard on the toll road leading into LaGrange and with ads in The Lakes magazine, the LaGrange Visitors Center Guide and, in the coming months, on another billboard in Angola. Find Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender news and event details on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Their tiered customer incentive program
allows customers to earn “petals” for purchases to redeem for credit and other perks, planting the seed for visitors to follow the tagline of Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender and “Come Bloom With Us!”
Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender is located at 107 W. Spring St. (Apothecary) and 3020 U.S. 20 (Schoolhouse) in LaGrange. The Schoolhouse is open for tours by appointment only.
Bloomfield Lavender Apothecary is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Here When You Need Us
HOURS & LOCATION
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New Location
Effective 9-7-2021! 115 E. 7th Street
HOURS & LOCATION
Here When You Need Us
New Location
Effective 9-7-2021! 115 E. 7th Street
Rochester, IN 46975 evansagencyrochester.com
HOURS & LOCATION
New Location
Effective 9-7-2021!
Rochester, IN 46975
115 E. 7th Street
evansagencyrochester.com
Rochester, IN 46975
Tel: 574-224-6988 Fax: 574-224-6925
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ONE MORE CHAPTER
LOCAL BOOKSHOP CREATING SPACE FOR READERS & COMMUNITY
Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Tony Straw
Residents and visitors to Plymouth might recognize Susan Kessler. She’s the former owner of the Blueberry Cottage Yarn Shop before she chose to retire, but like many, retirement didn’t really stick.
“I sold the yarn shop and made it to midSeptember before I started itching to do something else. I’ve always read books, and Plymouth didn’t have a bookshop, and people used to talk about it at the yarn shop; they’d like a bookshop around here,” Kessler says. “I found a building that was just meant to be. It was the perfect size, and we opened March 6.”
One More Chapter offers new and used books with some of the top genres of 2026. They have fiction and nonfiction and have noticed a popular desire for classics and books that are made into movies.
“There’s a lot of interest in books that have an upcoming movie release or maybe they just did a television series. ‘Remarkably Bright Creatures’ by Shelby Van Pelt has a movie coming out starring Sally Field, and I can’t keep ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ on the shelf,” Kessler says.
There are classic and modern children’s books, local Indiana authors and fantasy romance.
One
In
One
Kessler
The shop offers a gift area for the book lovers in your life. Pick up a bookmark, greeting cards, canvas totes and more to give away or to enhance your home
They also offer a buyback program when you’re ready to clear out the bookshelf at
“Probably 75% of our used books come from the buyback program. Customers can get $1 or $2 per book or double that in store credit. The books have to be in really good shape; otherwise, I will take donated books and give the customer a 15% off coupon,” Kessler says. “It’s really important to me that we have both new and used because you want everyone to
She has already created several book
On the third Wednesday of the month,
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Kessler hosts Whisper Wednesdays: Silent Book Club. Simply bring the book of your choice, a beverage and even a cozy blanket if you wish, and settle in a comfortable chair throughout the shop and read for a while.
On the fourth Wednesday of the month, visitors are welcome to join the Poison Pen, a mystery book club in which the club reads a specific book and talks about it afterward.
She hopes to bring the community, and in particular readers, together with other activities.
“We plan to do some other things, but I’m kind of waiting to see how the flow goes over the summer. I’m always open to new ideas,” Kessler says.
Most of all, she’s simply enjoying being back in the swing of things with a “wonderful and very knowledgeable” staff
and the community, who continues to come back for their next read.
“When I owned the yarn shop, we didn’t have a ton of men coming in. What I love about One More Chapter is that it’s such an eclectic group. It’s new people every day and all ages. Everyone is welcome, and it’s just fabulous,” Kessler says.
Current hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. They are open until 8 p.m. on book club evenings and on special occasions when Heartland hosts an artist’s reception or public event.
Visit onemorechapterplymouth.com or on social media for more information.
DIAMOND STEEL ROOFING
THE METAL ROOF ADVANTAGE
Writer / Amy Beaucham
A roof does its work quietly. It shields a family from pounding rain, biting wind, summer heat and heavy snow. Most often, a roof goes relatively unnoticed until something goes wrong.
Jake Frey believes that taking a more proactive approach when it comes to roofing is a very wise choice. He wants homeowners to know that thinking ahead, choosing wisely and understanding what a steel roof can provide can fulfill exactly what his company promises: peace of mind.
Based in Bourbon and serving communities across northern Indiana, including Plymouth, Culver, Warsaw, Mishawaka, Granger, South Bend, La Porte, Nappanee and Wakarusa, Diamond Steel Roofing specializes in metal roofing for new homes, re-roof projects and metal roof replacement. The company is local and family-owned, offers free estimates, and focuses on a very durable, attractive and environmentally friendly product that gives homeowners stronger long-term value than traditional asphalt shingles. The name Diamond Steel Roofing reflects that commitment to quality, with “diamond” symbolizing strength and long-term value.
Frey’s background has been rooted in construction for decades. His experience began in the post-frame building world and steadily grew into metal roofing. He says he had already installed metal roofs some 20 to 25 years ago and later worked in sales connected to the industry. Over time, one thing became clear to him: there was a real need for contractors who truly specialized in metal roofing and who gave homeowners an accountable and pleasing overall experience.
“In 2020, we kind of put our heads together,” Frey says of launching the business with his son and co-owner, Derek Frey. “I had a lot of contacts because of my experience in the post-
frame building industry and just the building industry in general. We basically threw some tools in the back of a truck and I called some people, and that was the beginning.”
That father-and-son beginning has grown steadily into a small team that currently includes three additional employees, with plans to expand the team as the company continues to grow. Frey says the company has been growing by about 20% each year. He also notes that the size and value of their projects have increased, with more high-end homes and more complex roofing work becoming part of the business.
Diamond Steel Roofing’s team has more than 40 years of combined experience, and that depth of knowledge shows up not only in installation, but in the way the company approaches customers.
For Frey, one of the clearest ways his company stands apart is its focus.
“We specifically specialize in metal roofing,” he says. “Our experts have studied the process intensely and figured it out fully.”
He believes homeowners deserve a positive, professional experience, especially when they are paying more for a premium roof.
“Our goal at Diamond Steel Roofing is to provide a premium experience to go along with that,” he says. “Communicate clearly, keep a clean job site, just some of the basics.”
That emphasis on cleanliness and professionalism is reflected in customer feedback as well. Brenda C. shared that Jake was “very easy to work with” and that his crew did a nice job and cleaned up well after the installation, noting that the finished metal roof made her home look much nicer. Daniel D. also praised the company as “very friendly and professional,” adding that the team even stopped back by a couple of months after installation to make sure everything was still in good condition.
Frey says that same standard is understood by every member of his team. Each crew member approaches the work with the expectation that every time they are on a job site, it will be left clean and organized.
A clean job site may not sound flashy, but Frey says it matters. He wants crews to respect landscaping, keep materials organized and remember that they are working on someone’s home, not just another job.
The company’s concentration on metal roofing is practical. Frey believes the product simply offers more in the long run. Longevity is the biggest reason. A properly installed metal roof can last for decades — often 50 years or more — while the average asphalt shingle roof lasts around 17 years.
Frey is quick to point out that proper installation is everything. Even a premium material must be installed correctly to perform as intended.
“If you buy a premium product, but it’s installed improperly, it can function on the level of a pile of junk,” he says.
Durability is a major selling point in Indiana. Frey says a metal roof typically carries a 140 mile-per-hour wind rating and a Class 4 hail rating, which is the highest level available. He also notes that metal does not hold moisture, rot or crack in the way other materials can over time. That matters in a region where weather can shift from ice and snow to storms and summer heat in a hurry.
The environmental impact is another important advantage. Traditional asphalt shingles contribute millions of tons of waste to landfills each year, often needing to be replaced multiple times over the life of a home.
Metal roofing, by contrast, is frequently made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Because it lasts significantly longer, it helps reduce the cycle
of tear-offs and disposal, making it a more sustainable choice for homeowners who are thinking long term.
The company also emphasizes how metal roofing is energy efficient. By reflecting solar heat rather than absorbing it, metal roofs can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy usage during warmer months.
Then there is appearance. Some homeowners still picture a shiny old barn roof when they hear the words “metal roofing,” but Frey says today’s options are far more refined. Diamond Steel Roofing offers a range of colors, and Frey says a metal roof can add class and prestige to a home. Sometimes it becomes the entire roof. Sometimes it serves as an accent on a porch, dormer or addition, giving a home a crisp architectural lift.
Cost, of course, is part of the conversation. Metal roofing is typically more expensive up front than asphalt shingles. Frey does not sidestep that. Instead, he explains the long
view. “If you really do the math and figure it out, at the end of it, it is always less per year than an asphalt roof,” he says.
That kind of straightforward approach is central to the Diamond Steel Roofing philosophy. Frey says he is not interested in high-pressure tactics. He wants homeowners to understand the options and make the best decision for their own situation. In fact, he says there are times he will tell a customer that a metal roof may not make sense, especially if they plan to move in just a few years.
“We want what’s best for you,” Frey says. “If that means a customer doesn’t spend the extra money on a metal roof, that’s fine. We want what’s in the best interest of the customer.”
That honesty feels refreshing in any industry, but especially in one where homeowners can feel vulnerable. Frey says one of the biggest issues homeowners face today is hiring the wrong contractor. A poor installation can create serious problems, no matter what
roofing material is used.
Diamond Steel Roofing is built around delivering a dependable, high-quality experience from start to finish. The company installs roofing year-round when weather allows, uses written proposals, provides free evaluations and estimates, and typically works to begin projects within six to 10 weeks after signing.
Looking ahead, Frey hopes to continue growing the company, increasing the scope and number of projects, adding people and helping more homeowners understand the value of metal roofing.
He sees the product as more than a trend. He sees it as a smart answer to long-term problems, from durability and energy use to landfill waste.
For homeowners in the Lakes West area, that may be the real appeal. A metal roof is not just about covering a house. It is about covering it
well, covering it beautifully and covering it for the long haul.
And like the best roofs, it does its work quietly — standing strong through every season, protecting what matters most and offering the kind of peace of mind that lasts for decades.
Diamond Steel Roofing, LLC is located at 740 12B Rd in Bourbon, IN. You can give them a call at 574-930-0058 or email jake@diamondsteelroofing.net. For more information, visit them online at diamondsteelroofing.net.
PLYMOUTH COLUMBUS CLUB
WHERE CELEBRATIONS GIVE BACK
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
At 604 Columbus Drive in Plymouth, celebrations do more than bring people together. They help strengthen an entire community.
For decades, the Plymouth Columbus Club has hosted weddings, family reunions, graduation parties, quinceañeras, business meetings, funeral dinners, blood drives, bingo nights and countless other gatherings. Many residents still refer to it as “the Knights of Columbus Hall,” and in many ways, that description fits. The Plymouth Columbus Club has long served as the meeting place for Knights of Columbus Council 1975, a Catholic fraternal organization that has been part of Plymouth since 1919.
The Knights of Columbus was founded in the late 1800s by Father Michael McGivney in New Haven, Connecticut. The organization originally helped provide support for widows and families after the loss of a breadwinner. Today, its mission continues through charity, fraternity and service to others.
Ed Chippas explained that worldwide, Knights of Columbus councils have long been rooted in supporting their local parish priests through faith, fellowship and service. The Plymouth Columbus Club serves as the local council’s meeting place. Like many councils, it uses its meeting venue to advance a broader community mission by hosting events and fundraisers that help
generate support for local nonprofits and charitable causes.
Those missions reach far beyond the walls of St. Michael Parish and the Plymouth Columbus Club itself. Through charitable gaming, rentals and fundraising, Council 1975 donates approximately $60,000 annually back into the community through scholarships, nonprofit support and community outreach.
It is this spirit of outreach and generosity that Hall Manager
Ed Rodriguez most hopes the public will recognize when learning about the Plymouth Columbus Club.
Rodriguez says many people throughout the area have been impacted by the generosity of the Plymouth Knights of Columbus, and he encourages families choosing a venue to consider that the organization gives 100% back to the local community.
That mission has helped the venue become a trusted gathering place for generations of Marshall County families. Chippas says nearly everyone in Plymouth has likely visited the hall at least once for a wedding, fundraiser, bingo night or community event.
The venue’s appeal begins with flexibility and affordability. Unlike many event spaces, renters are not locked into required catering packages or expensive per-plate meal costs. Families may bring in their own food, choose their own vendors and decorate according to their own style.
“It’s almost a blank canvas,” Chippas says.
That freedom has become especially important for young families planning weddings or celebrations on a budget.
Hours: Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 5:30 pm, Saturday 8 am - 1 pm
Rodriguez says affordability is one of the hall’s greatest strengths.
“Our folks are working-class families that are wanting something affordable and decent for their events,” Rodriguez says.
The large hall accommodates up to 300 guests, while the smaller Columbus Room seats approximately 70 to 90 people. Both spaces include tables, padded chairs, kitchen access, handicap accessibility and plenty of parking.
Community service remains at the center of everything the club does. The hall regularly hosts American Red Cross blood drives, local elections, charity fundraisers and nonprofit events. Organizations such as Junior Achievement, Ducks Unlimited and Link to Hope have all used the facility.
The club’s popular fish fry during Lent has also become a favorite local tradition. Chippas says this year’s event raised approximately $14,000 in just a few hours through dine-in and drive-through service.
Sunday bingo continues to draw guests from across northern Indiana and parts of Michigan. Chippas has volunteered with bingo for more than 30 years and says many players return week
after week for the fellowship and fun.
The hall has also become a place where memories repeat across generations. Rodriguez says many guests return because they already feel at home there.
“I hear this a lot,” Rodriguez says. “‘I know where the lights are. I know where the tables are. We’ve been here so many times.’”
While some venues prioritize glamour and luxury, the Plymouth Columbus Club emphasizes hospitality, practicality and service. Rodriguez says the organization wants guests to feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
In the end, the Plymouth Columbus Club offers more than rental space. Every wedding reception, reunion, fundraiser or celebration held there helps support scholarships, charities and neighbors in need throughout the community.
That may be the club’s greatest distinction of all. At the Plymouth Columbus Club, gatherings truly give back.
Contact: Plymouth Columbus Club, 604 Columbus Drive, Plymouth, Indiana. Call or text 574-309-4979 or email pcc3094979@gmail.com.
EXCEL SOFT WASH
MICHIANA’S
#1 CHOICE FOR EXTERIOR CLEANING
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Kari Lipscomb
Many property owners assume exterior cleaning is simply a matter of spraying water on a surface. John Miller, owner of Excel Soft Wash in Goshen, says that is one of the biggest misconceptions he encounters.
“It is not about the pressure,” Miller says. “It’s about putting on the correct solutions that break algae, mildew, rust, oil, grease, grime and more loose, and then using the right techniques to rinse and fully complete the job. It is important to kill all spores, remove oxidation and rinse it off with low-pressure water.”
Founded in 2023, Excel Soft Wash serves residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers, specializing in soft washing, a cleaning process that uses 100% biodegradable solutions and surfactants and rinses with low-pressure water to remove contaminants. Unlike traditional pressure washing,
which relies heavily on force, soft washing focuses on treating the source of the problem. According to Miller, excessive pressure can sometimes force water behind siding and other surfaces, potentially creating additional issues.
“When water is forced behind siding and soffits, it can lead to mold growth inside the walls,” John says. “In many cases, this creates not only structural damage but also health risks, as mold can make people sick. Once mold becomes an issue, homeowners often face the added expense of installing mold ventilation systems to address the problem.”
Soft washing uses soaps and surfactants to kill algae, mildew, fungus and other organic growth and to loosen stains and contaminants before rinsing. The result is a more thorough cleaning that often lasts three to four times longer than cleaning with water alone.
“We kill everything, including fungus,” Miller says. “Water doesn’t take off rust. Water doesn’t take off grease. Water doesn’t take off oxidation and more.”
Educating customers about the difference between soft washing and pressure washing has become one of Miller’s primary goals. Different stains require different solutions, whether addressing rust, grease, smoke damage, oxidation, algae or mildew. Specialized metering systems allow him to control the strength and application of cleaning solutions based on each project’s needs. He can pull a specific percentage of water, soaps, surfactants and chemicals as needed.
“The reason we’re insured and licensed is that we’re carrying hazmat materials on some of our jobs,” John says. “Every job is different. We have surfactants to break down chemicals. We can adjust our meters to meet the needs of each job. All states require a license for any business
that transports and applies chemicals that require hazmat placards.”
Miller spends considerable time evaluating surfaces and determining which products and techniques will produce the safest and most effective outcome. Understanding the differences between stains, surfaces and contaminants is a major part of achieving successful results.
One area where soft washing can make a significant difference is oxidation removal. Many homeowners assume faded siding, chalky surfaces, dull gutters and soffits must be replaced when the real issue is oxidation caused by years of exposure to sunlight, moisture and weather.
Miller says many surfaces can often be restored when the proper products and techniques are used.
“People have got to see the before-andafter results,” he says. “I get comments all the time. People ask, ‘Did you guys get new siding?’”
In many cases, the answer is no. The siding was simply restored by removing oxidation, algae and environmental buildup that had accumulated over time.
Restoration projects are among the most rewarding aspects of Miller’s work. Homeowners often assume replacement is necessary when oxidation, algae or environmental buildup have simply concealed a surface’s original appearance. Once cleaned, many discover they can significantly improve their property’s appearance without the expense of replacement.
Algae growth is another common issue throughout Northern Indiana, particularly around lakes, wooded areas and shaded properties. Buildings are constantly exposed to airborne spores, moisture and organic growth. Areas that receive limited sunlight often become ideal environments for algae and mildew to thrive.
“God gave us an immune system,” he says. “A building has not been given an immune system.”
That reality is one reason he encourages routine maintenance. The longer algae, mildew and stains remain untreated, the more difficult and costly they become to remove.
The same principle applies to roofs. Many homeowners view black roof streaks as a cosmetic issue, but Miller believes algae growth can contribute to long-term deterioration if left untreated.
“Algae roots grow deeper the longer they’re left untreated,” he explains. Regular maintenance not only improves appearance but also helps extend the life of exterior materials by removing contaminants before they become deeply embedded.
Excel Soft Wash provides cleaning services for roofs, siding, gutters, soffits, patios, fences, driveways, sidewalks,
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stamped concrete and other exterior surfaces. Oxidation removal on gutters and soffits remains one of the company’s most requested services because oxidation often causes white surfaces to fade to a gray appearance.
Commercial services represent another significant portion of the company’s work. Excel Soft Wash cleans concrete, gas stations, canopies, bank drive-
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throughs, restaurant dumpster pads, storefronts, industrial facilities and other commercial properties.
Miller has worked with businesses, government and city organizations throughout Indiana and Michigan, including WNDU NewsCenter 16, ENTECH, JOMAR, Gallops Truck Stops and more. He has also served the City of South Bend, cleaning up graffiti on city walls and bridges. He preps all projects for Lumber Coating Specialties and maintains the exterior of Middlebury’s Creamery on Main/14th Street Barbeque restaurant. Miller’s work has also included the restoration of gravestones, and most recently, he has added solar cleaning to his projects. He will soon seek full licensing to be certified to clean government solar panel fields.
Commercial projects often present unique challenges because businesses need to remain accessible to customers and employees. To minimize disruptions, many projects are scheduled during evenings, overnight hours or other times when facilities are less busy or closed. Miller understands that commercial properties often serve as the public face of a business. Clean sidewalks, drive-through lanes, entrances and building exteriors can contribute to a positive first impression for customers while also helping maintain a property’s professional appearance.
Municipal projects require attention to both appearance and safety, particularly where algae and other slippery organic growth can create hazards.
Miller also works with homeowners and real estate professionals to prepare properties for sale. He believes exterior appearance can help create a positive first impression before potential buyers ever step inside.
“If everything’s clean when there’s a showing, the buyer is going to know these people cared for their house,” he says.
Miller believes a clean exterior helps convey that a property has been well maintained before buyers ever step inside.
Miller also believes reputation remains one of a business’s most valuable assets.
“A good reputation is better than anything,” he says. “People will judge you by your reputation before they’ll judge you based on somebody else talking bad about you.”
That philosophy has helped Excel Soft Wash grow through referrals and wordof-mouth recommendations.
“I believe if you do good work, you’ll never be without work,” Miller says.
Miller continues to study new products,
techniques and equipment, believing education is essential in an industry that constantly evolves. One innovative tool John uses is an app that assists with providing quotes over the phone or online.
“When customers call for a quote, I can use satellite technology to measure buildings, driveways and more to get the square footage to provide my customers with a quick and very close estimate.”
Previous customers appreciate how quickly John gets back to them. His commitment to learning is reflected in one of his favorite sayings: “Failure is just another way to learn how to do something right.” He approaches challenges with the belief that growth requires action.
As he often says, “Fear has killed more dreams than failure ever did.”
Community service is another area where Miller’s values shine through.
The first week of every month, Excel Soft Wash has a drawing for a free house wash for someone who has recently lost a spouse. This is one small way Miller feels he can support people facing difficult circumstances. He encourages the community to contact him if they know of a widow or widower who could benefit from the program.
Miller feels that the world needs more people giving back to others.
Miller is grateful for the support he has received from customers throughout the region.
“It’s such a blessing from God,” he says. “I want to thank the entire community for trusting Excel Soft Wash, and I look forward to seeing each customer again for a future cleaning.”
Miller repeatedly emphasizes the importance of taking pride in every project and delivering results customers can trust. Whether cleaning a residential roof, restoring oxidized siding or completing a commercial project
overnight, he believes the same principles apply.
“If you do something, do it right or don’t do it at all.”
He also believes that if you are working on something you really care about, you do not have to be pushed; the vision pulls you. Another philosophy of Miller’s is that opportunities do not happen; you create them, and if you can dream it, you can do it.
For Miller, commitment to continual learning is closely tied to the science behind soft washing. He believes many people still assume exterior cleaning is simply a matter of buying a pressure washer and spraying a surface until it looks clean.
In reality, he says, successful cleaning depends on understanding chemistry, stain identification, dwell times, water
flow and proper rinsing techniques.
“Pressure is actually one of the least important parts of what we do,” Miller says. “The solution has to do the work first.”
A house covered with algae requires a different treatment than a restaurant dumpster pad coated with grease. Rust stains require a different approach than
oxidation on vinyl siding. Even two homes in the same neighborhood may require different solution strengths depending on the surfaces’ age, the severity of staining and environmental conditions.
That attention to detail is what Miller believes separates professional soft washing from traditional pressure washing. Instead of relying on force to
blast contaminants away, soft washing focuses on breaking down and eliminating the source of the problem before rinsing it away with low-pressure water.
“The goal is not just to make it look clean for a week,” he says. “The goal is to clean it correctly.”
For Miller, that philosophy applies to every project, whether he is restoring oxidized siding, removing algae from a roof, cleaning a commercial property or preparing a home for sale. The process may vary from job to job, but the objective remains the same: identify the problem, use the proper products and achieve results without causing unnecessary damage to the surface being cleaned.
John says, “If you are worried about the cost of going after something in life, you should see the price of staying exactly where you are.”
John strongly feels that there is a difference between a job and work.
“A job is where you punch in for somebody on their time, but work,” he says, “is something that is inside of you — something no person can take from you.”
John also says he still believes in a firm handshake, trust, hard work and honesty in both relationships and business.
Each of John’s beliefs and philosophies continues to guide Excel Soft Wash as it serves homeowners, businesses and communities throughout Northern Indiana and southwest Michigan.
Contact Information
Excel Soft Wash
John Miller 574-596-9240
PREMIER SHADE
LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING FOR YOUR HOME
Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
As the golden light of evening settles across Northern Indiana lakes and backyards, families naturally drift outdoors — gathering on porches, relaxing beside the lake and lingering on patios long after dinner. Yet even the most thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces can become difficult to enjoy during intense sun, gusty winds, insect issues or unpredictable weather. Richard Fishburn loves helping people change that.
Through Premier Shade, Richard and his wife, Brittany, are helping homeowners throughout Northern Indiana and Northwest Ohio transform patios, porches, pergolas, docks, garages and outdoor gathering areas into inviting extensions of the home. Their motorized retractable awnings and retractable shade screens provide comfort, elegance, privacy and protection while creating spaces families can truly enjoy.
“What I enjoy most,” Richard says, “is seeing the spaces transform and be able to be utilized.”
That transformation often begins with a simple conversation.
Richard explains that the consultation process is intentionally relaxed and
pressure-free. He spends time learning how homeowners hope to use their space before ever discussing products or pricing.
“The design process is relatively straightforward,” Richard says. “I spend a few minutes getting to know the
customer, asking how they intend to use the space. This helps me understand if one of our products is going to be the right fit for them.”
After evaluating mounting areas, dimensions and obstacles, Richard walks customers through frame colors, fabrics
and design options while preparing pricing on-site. He says his goal is to provide accurate pricing before leaving the home so customers can comfortably ask questions face-to-face.
For many homeowners, the response after installation is immediate.
“It is usually some variation of, ‘WOW!’” Richard says.
Richard shares that many customers initially feel unsure of where to begin, especially if they have never explored outdoor shade systems before or have had unpleasant experiences in the past while exploring various projects.
“For this reason, and others, we don’t do pressure,” he says.
Some homeowners are not ready or are leery of having an on-site design consultation. In that case, they can simply start by sending a few photos of their
outdoor space through email, allowing Richard to begin discussing ideas and possibilities before ever stepping onto the property.
“We truly enjoy walking through the possibilities with each customer,” he says.
Premier Shade may be a newer business name, but Richard is far from new to the industry. He has spent 13 years in the shade business and more than 16 years working in design-related fields. What began as experience in the industry gradually became a vision for creating a company centered around exceptional customer service, honest communication and high-quality products without inflated costs.
The company operates using a mobile business model rather than a large storefront. Richard says this helps minimize unnecessary overhead expenses and allows Premier Shade to pass
savings directly to customers while still delivering what he describes as a “whiteglove” experience.
Premier Shade serves a remarkably large territory throughout Northern Indiana and Northwest Ohio, including communities from South Bend to Kokomo, Fort Wayne to Fremont and many lake communities in between. Richard says efficiency and communication are what make that broad
service area possible.
“We try to schedule design consultations while we are already in the area so we are not forced to rush the process to get to the next appointment,” he says.
That same careful scheduling also allows the company to complete multiple installations in one region while minimizing fuel costs and maximizing time with customers.
Communication remains one of the company’s strongest priorities. “While we are in the shade business, we are also in the people business,” Richard says. “Word of mouth is the best and worst advertisement.”
He explains that customers are usually very understanding when changes or delays are communicated clearly. Problems arise, he says, when companies fail to keep homeowners informed.
“We try to treat everyone how we would want to be treated,” Richard says.
That philosophy seems to resonate with customers. One online reviewer, John D., shared, “Premier Shade transformed our outdoor space beautifully! Their expertise and service are unmatched.”
Premier Shade offers several types of motorized retractable awnings and shade
screens, with hundreds of fabric colors and weave options available. Their retractable awnings include integrated LED lighting built directly into the arms of the awning, allowing homeowners to continue enjoying outdoor areas well after sunset. The systems also include protective cases that shield awning fabric from weather and UV exposure when retracted.
Many of the features offered by Premier Shade are considered upgrades elsewhere but come standard through their manufacturer partnerships. Richard partners with respected American companies including Marygrove Awnings and SunPro Products to provide products made in the United States.
The company’s retractable screens are equally versatile. Homeowners can use them for shade, privacy, insect protection and wind reduction. Richard notes that
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the heavy-duty bottom bars and selfadjusting track systems can withstand wind ratings up to 75 mph.
Richard says one of the features customers often end up appreciating most is the ability to customize exactly how much shade or screening they want throughout the day.
“For screens and awnings alike, they don’t have to be all the way extended or retracted,” Richard says. “You can lower a screen to keep the sun out of your eyes, but still maintain your view!”
The growing popularity of outdoor living spaces has helped increase interest in products like these. Richard says television renovation shows and design magazines have shifted the way people think about their patios and porches.
“There has been an increasing emphasis on luxury outdoor living,”
he says. “Home remodeling programs and magazines are emphasizing the remodeling and revitalization of outdoor living spaces as an extension of the interior of the home.”
Premier Shade products help create that seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. A shaded patio suddenly becomes a comfortable dining space. A breezy porch transforms into an outdoor room. A lakeside seating area becomes usable throughout much more of the day.
“Our retractable awnings provide shade overhead during the day and then light up the area at night with our integrated lights so that a homeowner has essentially doubled their investment,” Richard says.
The company also offers maintenance and winterization services to help homeowners protect that investment long-term. Services include cleaning awning fabric, removing and storing
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valances during winter months, reinstalling them in spring, and replacing batteries in wind sensors and remotes.
“We offer premier products and want them to last as long as possible,” Richard says.
Throughout the company’s growth, Richard says Brittany has played a vital role behind the scenes.
“Brittany has been my biggest supporter,” he says. “Premier Shade would not be possible without her help.”
Her bookkeeping and accounting background, combined with her organizational skills, have helped streamline operations and maintain efficiency. Richard says customers who call Premier Shade will speak directly with either him or Brittany.
That personal connection matters deeply to the Fishburn family.
Richard says he never takes lightly the trust customers place in Premier Shade when inviting the company into their homes and outdoor living spaces.
“Our approach is to treat everyone’s home as if it were our own, or better.”
Perhaps that welcoming approach is part of why Premier Shade continues
to grow primarily through referrals and word of mouth. Families are not simply purchasing awnings or screens. They are creating gathering places where children splash nearby after dinner, friends linger long after sunset, and outdoor spaces remain inviting through changing sun, wind and weather conditions.
Richard says he hopes customers remember not only the finished space, but also the sense of partnership and
enjoyment shared throughout the process of creating it together.
“I want them to know they have been a blessing to our business and family,” he says, “and that they are now part of the Premier Shade family.”
As evening settles across the lakes and neighborhoods of Northern Indiana, those transformed spaces often become the places where families naturally
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Contact Information
Premier Shade
1908 Hunters Ridge Drive
Huntington, IN 46750
Phone: 260-255-6004
Email: premiershade.in@gmail.com
ON-DEMAND URGENT CARE WITH A HOMETOWN HEART
A sore throat on a holiday weekend. A child with an earache during a lake visit. A urinary tract infection that starts after the doctor’s office has closed. A lingering sinus infection.
Too often, illness strikes when there is no available appointment, no time to miss work and no practical alternative to an expensive urgent care or emergency room visit.
Dr. Tod Stillson has seen those situations for more than 30 years. As a longtime board-certified family physician in Marshall County, he has cared for newborns, children, parents, grandparents, workers, farmers, students and families simply trying to get through the week. He has delivered babies, practiced full-scope rural family medicine and built the kind of trust that comes from decades of showing up for people. That spirit of service has extended beyond his own community as well. Tod has traveled to areas where maternity care is at risk, helping hospitals and families in places where access to physicians is fragile. His willingness to serve in those places says much about the kind of doctor
Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Tony Straw
he has always tried to be — one who does not simply talk about need, but steps toward it.
Now, through ChatRx, he is working to make common acute medical care faster, easier and more affordable.
“I’m on a mission to democratize
healthcare,” Tod says. “The system is broken.”
ChatRx is an on-demand urgent care service that allows patients to start a free symptom assessment on their phone any time, day or night. If the condition can be treated through the platform, a licensed provider reviews the case, determines the
appropriate treatment plan and, when medically necessary, sends a prescription to the patient’s chosen pharmacy. The cost is a flat $25.
There are no appointments, no waiting rooms, no insurance billing and no surprise charges.
For Lakes West readers, that convenience may be especially meaningful. Many local residents live busy lives filled with work, family, school, caregiving and community responsibilities. Many visitors come to the lakes for weekends, vacations, family gatherings and summer memories. Illness, unfortunately, does not politely wait until Monday morning.
Tod thinks about the family visiting from Fort Wayne, Chicago, Detroit or Indianapolis whose weekend is suddenly interrupted by strep throat, swimmer’s ear, pink eye, bronchitis or a UTI. He also thinks about small-business owners,
workers without health insurance, college students, busy professionals and parents who cannot easily take time off work for a relatively common infection.
For busy families and working adults, avoiding the cost of a visit is only part of the benefit. ChatRx can also reduce lost work time, travel and the disruption that often accompanies an in-person appointment.
“If you can get it done instantly, in 10 minutes on your phone, and the prescription sent to your local pharmacy, just think of how much time you bought back from your vacation,” Tod says.
The process begins with a free symptom assessment. Patients create a free account and enter information about what they are experiencing. The platform gathers symptoms, medical history, medications and allergies. The technology helps organize information efficiently, but Tod
is very clear about one important point: Artificial intelligence does not replace the doctor.
All medical decisions are made by licensed providers.
ChatRx currently treats 39 common
conditions, including respiratory illnesses, sinus infections, bronchitis, UTIs, strep throat, swimmer’s ear, pink eye, tooth infections, certain skin infections, shingles, tick-bite prophylaxis for Lyme disease risk and other common acute concerns. It can also identify when the platform is not the right fit.
That safety feature matters. If symptoms suggest an emergency, ChatRx directs the patient to seek urgent in-person care. If the illness appears viral and does not require medication, the patient is told that up front. If the condition requires a face-to-face visit, the platform guides the patient in that direction.
“We know our lane,” Tod says.
That lane is common acute care delivered quickly and affordably. It is not designed to manage diabetes, chronic disease, emergencies or complex conditions requiring in-person evaluation. It is designed to answer the questions patients often have first: Where should I go? When can I be seen? How much will it cost?
Tod’s approach turns the traditional medical visit upside down. In many healthcare settings, patients provide payment information first, wait to be
ANIMAL
seen and may later learn the illness was viral or did not require prescription treatment. With ChatRx, patients begin with a free assessment. They only pay the $25 fee if they choose to move forward with treatment through the platform.
“I reverse-engineered it,” Tod says. “I’m going to tell you for free whether you need treatment, and then if you do, I’m going to tell you what it costs.”
The $25 fee includes provider evaluation, a treatment plan, prescription processing when appropriate and a work or school note for the patient being treated. Medication costs are paid separately to the pharmacy. ChatRx can send prescriptions to major chains or local independent pharmacies, and the service also provides access to pharmacy discount options that may help reduce medication costs.
For caregivers, a separate caregiver
absence note is available for $10 when someone misses work to care for a sick child or dependent.
Long before ChatRx became a medical platform, its heart was already taking shape in a boy from Bremen who understood working-class life from the inside. Tod grew up in a family where no one before him had gone to college. His parents gave him enduring foundations that cannot be measured on a transcript or medical degree. They gave him love, security and the belief that anything was possible.
That gift stayed with him.
Tod first imagined becoming a hometown pharmacist after seeing the care Al Molebash of Al’s Pharmacy in Bremen provided. He admired the way an independent pharmacist could become woven into the life of a community. He saw someone who knew people by name,
understood their needs and served as a trusted part of everyday life.
He went to pharmacy school with the idea that he might someday return to serve a small Indiana town. A mission experience in Niger changed that path. While working in a mission hospital pharmacy, he felt called to become a doctor. He applied to Indiana University School of Medicine and was accepted before completing an undergraduate degree.
“I thought I was going to come back to
deliver healthcare as a pharmacist,” Tod says. “I actually came back to deliver healthcare as a doctor.”
That sense of calling still informs his work. Tod says his faith shapes his desire to care for people who are sick, underserved or overlooked. His concern for rural communities is not theoretical. He has practiced in them. He has watched patients wait too long because cost, transportation, work schedules or lack of appointments stood in the way.
He has also seen what happens when rural communities lose access to essential care, including maternity care, and he has given his own time and energy to help keep those doors open in places that need physicians.
“My motivation is the blue-collar people who live in rural areas,” Tod says. “The real people who need real solutions.”
ChatRx is headquartered in Plymouth, not on one of the coasts where many technology-driven healthcare companies begin. Tod sees that as intentional.
“This is something that you would find on the coast, in San Francisco or Boston, not in rural America, rural Indiana,” he says. “I’ve chosen to headquarter this in my home community, my home county, our home place.”
That local foundation is part of the trust Tod wants to preserve as ChatRx grows. The platform currently operates in Indiana, Michigan and Illinois, with plans for broader expansion. Schools,
pharmacies, small businesses and college health programs are among the groups demonstrating strong interest in the platform and its potential applications.
For schools, ChatRx may offer a practical way to help families when a child becomes sick during the day. For independent pharmacies, it may allow patients to scan a QR code, complete an assessment and potentially have a prescription sent to that same pharmacy within minutes. For small businesses, it may provide an affordable healthcare resource for employees when traditional insurance is too costly.
Tod says ChatRx has already had more than 4,000 users, more than 5,000 assessments or encounters and more than 1,500 prescriptions issued. He emphasizes that the platform is not an antibiotic vending machine. Treatment decisions follow medical guidelines, and antibiotics are prescribed only when medically appropriate.
One story that stayed with him involved a granddaughter visiting from out of state over Memorial Day weekend. She became ill, and her family suspected strep throat. Instead of losing the weekend to confusion, waiting or a costly urgent care visit, they used ChatRx and had treatment arranged quickly.
That is exactly the kind of situation Tod had in mind.
A medical problem may begin with discomfort, worry and inconvenience. ChatRx is designed to meet that moment
with clarity, affordability and speed. For the parent at home, the worker without time to spare, the student away at college or the lake visitor hoping to save the weekend, it offers something simple but powerful.
Care can begin right from the phone in your hand.
ChatRx represents modern technology being used for one of its finest purposes — helping people feel better, make wise choices and reach trusted medical care when they need it most. Behind the platform is not a distant corporation or an anonymous system, but a highly qualified local physician with more than three decades of experience, a deep understanding of rural healthcare and a humble, service-oriented heart.
While ChatRx is built on modern technology, its purpose is rooted in something deeper: a physician’s desire to remove barriers, ease burdens and help people receive care when they need it most.
For the people of Plymouth, Marshall County, the Lakes West area and beyond, ChatRx offers more than convenience. It offers reassurance that when illness interrupts life, help may be closer than ever.
ChatRx
Dr. Tod Stillson
328 S. Michigan St. Plymouth, IN 46563 574-933-2634
tstillson@chatrx.net www.chatrx.md
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SHOP SMALL
BREMEN VILLAGE SHOPS SUPPORTS LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott
Opening a retail store can be exciting. It can also be expensive. But for a fortunate group of entrepreneurs, this barrier to entry has been minimized by the new Bremen Village Shops. An innovative retail concept created by partners Amber Reed and Matt VanSoest, the Bremen Village Shops provides low-cost shed structures that allow entrepreneurs and business owners a storefront without the constricting commitment of a more costly building or long-term lease.
Bremen Village Shops is the brainchild of Reed after she and her family visited a similar development in Illinois. She collaborated with fellow Leadership Marshall County members and the partnering nonprofit Bremen Community Cares Inc. to draft the business concept proposal to the Bremen Redevelopment Commission, and they received not only approval but widespread industry support, with foundational elements including wiring, concrete and insulation.
VanSoest, an architectural urban designer by trade, was eager to use his experience with Leadership Marshall County to invest time and energy into the entrepreneurial endeavor. Reed, a high school teacher of business and entrepreneurial studies, was dedicated to providing an inviting place to encourage people to visit, shop and spend more time in Bremen.
A native of Bremen herself, Reed notes that the location of the Bremen Village Shops holds great meaning to her, since the shops will stand on the same property where her grandfather
Photography / Presley Jane Photography LLC
and father once owned a gas station. To continue her family’s tradition of business ownership in the same location brings even deeper purpose to the impact she hopes the shops have within the community.
“I’d like to think my dad would be really proud of this venture to bring new energy to the downtown, on the same land where he ran his gas station and I ran around as a young girl,” Reed says.
Funding from the Bremen Redevelopment Commission allows Reed and VanSoest to invite business owners to launch their businesses in the Bremen community with minimal financial burden. In return, the community and visitors gain a greater variety of shopping experiences.
Business owners pay an annual fee that aligns more with one month’s rent for a typical lease, and they occupy a finished shed that measures 14 by 14 feet, complete with electricity, heat and air conditioning. There will also be public restrooms onsite. In addition to holding retail hours of operation, each business is asked to commit to continuing education, such as accounting and merchandising training, to grow the business. Each business is given a one-year membership in the Bremen Chamber of Commerce.
P.J. Gilsinger & Co. A Place to Visit!
The inaugural group of entrepreneurs was selected through an interview process that included submitting a business plan as well as expressing why they desired to open a retail location. For this first season’s launch, the Bremen Village Shops will be home to a variety of vendors ranging from a community-focused service organization and first-time entrepreneurs to established business owners, including Reed herself.
Her business, Studio 574, uses laser engraving and UV printing to create one-of-a-kind cutting boards, jewelry and other boutique items. She began her business in 2020 and has always desired a retail location, but does not want to step away from teaching right now.
P.J. 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.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE ADMISSION
• Farm Equipment
• Local School Memorabilia
• WWII Artifacts
• Early Household and Farming Tools
• Several Unusual Exhibits
Museum Hours:
Contact Brenda Gilsinger for Inquiries or Appointments (574)595-7851
5641 S. Main St. Winamac, Indiana May-October Friday & Sunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm November-April by Appointment Only
Like many entrepreneurs, Reed admits, “I always wanted to open a store, but as a full-time high school teacher, I didn’t have the time or resources to commit to typical retail hours.”
By developing the Bremen Village Shops, Reed and VanSoest answer the challenges that entrepreneurs face in two significant ways.
First, the cost to occupy a shed is far more inclusive than exclusive. Second, the business is only required to be open a certain number of hours per week, with a focus on weekend shoppers, allowing business owners the chance to prove their entrepreneurial concept without sacrificing their existing full-time obligations.
Joining this year’s Bremen Village Shops is Three Oaks, Michiganbased Nest Number 4, an expansion of owner Kim Yettaw’s current store in Three Oaks, where she features unique items from local artisans including home goods and décor, body care products, cleaning solutions and candles. Revival Rack stocks resale clothing for the entire family, and Uptown Renewal houses a curated collection of upscale women’s resale clothing and accessories.
Honey Shea Studios designs thoughtful jewelry, including owner Honey Shea’s “unending jewelry bar” line of custom-fit bracelets, anklets and necklaces that have a seamless closure without using
traditional welding. The shops will also offer visitors the chance to shop at Novaco, an online clothing boutique with the motto, “Wear what you love, love what you wear.”
Shoppers can satisfy their cravings for delicious handmade breads, rolls and sweets at Sourdough Haven Bread Company, including its very own “Carrie Breadshaw” sourdough starter. Maple & Honey Coffee Company boasts an owner who is young and focused on leveraging her experience working in a coffee shop to owning and running one of her own.
Bremen Community Cares rounds out the lineup of businesses, serving as a veritable living classroom where Bremen
entrepreneurial students can use the space to showcase a concept or sell their creations.
Reed emphasizes the importance of the Bremen Village Shops in “providing entrepreneurs a chance to discover if they have a viable product that appeals to the target audience.”
The business concept is to continually rotate retail concepts in and out to attract shoppers. However, current business owners will have the opportunity to reapply for the next year’s retail selection. It is the long-term vision of Bremen Village Shops to help facilitate the transition of village businesses into actual brick-and-mortar storefront buildings within downtown Bremen.
Each vendor in the Bremen Village Shops can run its own specials, but together they will welcome live music on the fourth Friday of every month to turn up the volume on the shopping experience.
The Bremen Village Shops plan to track sales among vendors each season to better understand what Bremen and visiting shoppers find valuable in the retail experience. Ideally, the data will help continually improve the Bremen community experience and encourage residents to stay, while inspiring visitors to consider Bremen as a wonderful place to settle and raise a family.
Over 20 Years of Experience
The Bremen Village Shops recently appeared on a Hometown Living segment on WBST-TV, celebrating the season, which runs from the grand opening June 6-7 through the second week of December.
When the weekend arrives, plan to make the Bremen Village Shops part of your shopping list!
Bremen Village Shops is located at 125 E. Plymouth St. in Bremen. Hours of operation are Friday, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.
For more information, visit Facebook or email bremenvillageshops@gmail.com.
SHARP SUMMER
KEEPING KITCHEN TOOLS READY FOR THE SEASON
Writer / Miranda Medeiros
Summer, oh summer, wherefore art thou, summer? It’s already July, which means summer is a mere eight weeks away from passing. A bittersweet moment, it feels as if it’s only just begun, but the end is already reminding us of its inevitable return, like it does every year.
Something I’ve noticed with age is that a year no longer seems like a year. The months go by fast and the seasons even faster. No matter the changes that come with each month, one thing remains true through it all. The task in the kitchen
remains the same: putting together a meal utilizing what’s in season and feeding those around us.
Summer can be an especially tasking season for those who grow and can their food to build a supply for the year ahead. With all the chopping, slicing and dicing going on, this would be a good time to talk about knives. There is nothing worse than having a stack of fruits or veggies and a blade that makes the task seem hard. Suddenly, preparing your potatoes becomes a marathon and not a simple
prep task of cutting.
Watermelons require an umph you assume is just your age, and for some reason you must be cooking your steaks extra well lately.
Most of that isn’t true, and the common denominator here could be your knife. If your blades have gone dull, then let us remind you all that here at New Kitchen Store, our annual Knife Sharpening Event is coming up Saturday, Aug. 15.
New Kitchen Store’s Annual Knife Sharpening Event
At this event, all knives are welcome to be honed and sharpened. However, if it is a Cangshan, Wusthof, Zwilling, Shun or Kikuichi knife, it can be sharpened for free! If you don’t have those specific brand knives, don’t worry. Feel free to come get your knife sharpened still. Just know any other brand of knife will require a $3 donation to be sharpened, but all money goes directly to a charity of our choosing every year. This year, all funds will be going to Mission BBQ.
Once you get your knife sharpened, you’ll go home with something that’ll remind you cooking doesn’t have to be a workout with the proper tools. To make that edge last as long as possible, let’s cover some simple tips to keep your knife healthy and sharp.
For starters, a general rule of thumb is to hand-wash your knives. Dishwashers are so convenient, especially for a busy lifestyle. However, where sharp knives
and abrasive cleaning-agent packets are concerned, it’s better just to take the extra minute to hand-wash your knife, dry it and put it away after you’re done with it.
Another good thing to consider when caring for your knife is your cutting board. Is it plastic, glass or stainless steel? If your answer is yes, then know that it’s probably contributing to your dull-knife situation. Harder surfaces that have no natural give dull the blade as they resist letting it pass through, and they can leave traces of unwanted materials in whatever you’re cutting.
A good option to switch to is a wood cutting board, and there are so many options available. At New Kitchen Store, we carry lots of beautiful high-end wood cutting boards, but we also carry some plant-composite boards that still protect your knife by allowing it to pass through, not put unwanted plastics in your food,
and remain dishwasher-safe. They come in many shapes and sizes and are an excellent place to start if this is new to you, as they require minimal care in comparison to something like a butcher block.
Our last tip here to help extend the life of your freshly sharpened knife is storage. Is it something you’re just throwing in a kitchen drawer with all your other sharp and odd-looking kitchen tools? If so, you don’t need a fancy block for your knife, but maybe consider a sheath of some kind to cover the edges of the knife and prevent extra dulling from contact with other metal knives or objects. We carry some magnetic Wusthof ones that are a great choice for a quick solution like this.
New Kitchen Store is a great place for seasoned and new knife enthusiasts alike. We carry a large variety of knives. Whether you’re looking for just a couple of staple pieces or complete sets and
accessories, we’ve got you covered.
Be sure to mark your calendars for Aug. 15 for our Annual Knife Sharpening Event, and call the store at 574-586-2745 with any questions!
As always, we’re open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and located at 1100 Roosevelt Road, Walkerton, IN 46574. Stop in and see our newly finished kitchen area and other updates we’ve made to the store!
Canagshun,
Store
Specials
GAME ON
GAMETIME DELIVERS FUN & RECREATION FOR EVERY AGE
Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger
Summer is a time that lends itself to recreation and leisure, a chance to take in the outdoors and languish in the sunshine. And for every industrious moment folks spend working hard, they certainly deserve to play hard, too.
Marlin Yoder, the current proprietor of GameTime in Millersburg, Indiana, understands the essence of the work-life balance. The shop is situated within the spacious Millersburg Feeds facility, located at the crossroads of County Road 40 and State Road 13. Within the shared complex, shoppers can find a variety of outdoor gaming implements, balls and other types of sporting equipment.
Yoder took over the stewardship of GameTime from the previous owner, Larry Miller, who founded the business around 2010. Miller and Yoder have been well acquainted over the years, as Miller had hired Yoder to assist in his bike shop some years ago. When Miller made plans to sell the GameTime aspect of his business, Yoder seized the opportunity to take things over.
Yoder’s pledge and promise to customers is a simple one.
“We want to make things available for all different kinds of people,” he says.
The inventory is typically rotated to align with the appropriate seasons, which means that currently, warm-weather gear is selling vigorously. Yoder says that among the top-selling items are baseball and softball gear, such as cleats and composite bats, accessories for bucket golf and kites. And he still works on bicycle repairs to keep those longtime customers up and riding.
In the winter, Yoder notes that there tends to be a keener interest in things like board and card games, but he has noticed a significant uptick in ice skate sales. He listens carefully to what customers want, and he takes those trends into consideration when ordering new merchandise for a rapidly growing business.
“If something new comes out, I want to make that available,” Yoder says.
GameTime also features an event trailer that can be rented for special functions. The trailer is well stocked with seasonal equipment and has been used for everything from birthday parties to school-sponsored festivities and functions.
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Yoder also stays apprised of the coordination of various area leagues that focus on certain athletic endeavors. There are leagues for pingpong, darts and pickleball, and there are other unique sports to participate in, such as Spyderball, cornhole, Spyder Pong, Bottle Bash and giant Connect Four boards.
Yoder, a man who is a master of time management, continues to
WITH A 12
assist at the feed store as his schedule permits. Both he and his wife, Karen, are lifelong residents of the area. He was raised in Nappanee, and she grew up in Topeka. They are the parents of three daughters: Audrey, 5; Alisa, 3; and Evelyn, 1.
To visit GameTime, head to 66094 State Road 13, located at the northern fringe of rural Millersburg. The hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. The business is closed Sundays. Guests can also call ahead and make inquiries at 574-330-9020.
BUILDING MORE THAN CONCRETE
Writer / Kristi Sellers
Some of the most important parts of a home are often the ones people rarely stop to think about. A driveway welcomes family members home at the end of the day. A patio becomes the backdrop for summer cookouts and conversations with friends. These everyday spaces may seem simple, but the craftsmanship behind them can have a lasting impact.
For homeowners and businesses throughout Indiana, In-Line Concrete has built a reputation for delivering quality concrete work that combines durability, functionality and curb appeal.
According to owner Wayne Bontrager, “At In-Line Concrete, we believe in our slogan — ‘Pouring Quality Every Time.’ It’s more than just words to us. It represents our promise to every customer that we will deliver durable, dependable and professional results that stand the test of time.”
Concrete is often viewed as a practical necessity, but it can also be an important design element. A well-crafted driveway can enhance a home’s appearance, while a thoughtfully designed patio can create an inviting outdoor living space. At In-
Line Concrete, each project begins with understanding how customers want to use and enjoy their space.
“As a young business owner with years of hands-on experience in the concrete industry, I’ve learned that quality is never an accident. It’s the result of dedication, precision and pride in every single job. Whether we’re pouring a new driveway, laying a foundation or completing a custom
Locally Made
project, our commitment remains the same: Do it right the first time,” says Bontrager. This dedication to doing things the right way has helped In-Line Concrete earn the trust of customers throughout the area. Many new projects come from referrals, a reflection of the relationships the company has built and the confidence customers have in its work.
Today’s homeowners are investing more than ever in outdoor spaces that extend
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the comfort of their homes beyond four walls. Patios, walkways, gathering areas and decorative concrete features have become popular ways to add beauty and functionality to a property. In-Line Concrete enjoys helping clients explore creative possibilities that fit their lifestyle while maintaining the durability that concrete is known for.
According to Bontrager, “We’re proud to serve our community and surrounding areas, helping homeowners and businesses improve their properties and add lasting value. When you choose In-Line Concrete, you’re not just hiring a contractor — you’re working with someone who understands the importance of trust, hard work and doing things the right way.”
At its heart, every project is about more than concrete. It’s about creating spaces where life happens. A new driveway may welcome a growing family home. A backyard patio may become the setting for birthdays, holidays and countless summer evenings. A
business entrance may create a positive first impression for customers and visitors.
As In-Line Concrete continues to grow, its commitment to quality remains unchanged. The company understands that success is built one project at a time through hard work, integrity and a dedication to exceeding expectations.
“I grew up in the small town of Millersburg, Indiana, raised in a close-knit family where hard work wasn’t just encouraged — it was expected. When I was just 10 years old, I lost my dad. That loss changed my life forever. It taught me at a young age that nothing valuable is accomplished without the right mindset and a strong work ethic behind it. Those lessons became the foundation of who I am today and the driving force behind starting In-Line Concrete,” says Bontrager.
While materials and trends may evolve, the value of dependable craftsmanship remains constant. For In-Line Concrete,
every driveway, patio, sidewalk and custom project is an opportunity to create something lasting. By combining skilled workmanship with a customer-first approach, the company continues to help homeowners and businesses build spaces that are both practical and meaningful.
In the end, concrete is more than a construction material. It forms the foundation of everyday experiences and connects people to the places they call home. Through its commitment to quality and service, In-Line Concrete is helping create those foundations throughout Indiana — one project at a time.
According to Bontrager, “In-Line Concrete is here to help you and your community — one solid foundation at a time.”
For more information, contact In-Line Concrete at 574-500-1030 or email Inline9concrete@gmail.com.
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Mon–Fri: 1:00 PM-6:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: 2:00 PM-5:00PM (269) 921-5727 | LKDEMLER@gmail.com
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Monday & Friday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM-5:00PM Wednesday: Closed Saturday: 10:00 AM-1:00PM Sunday: Closed Lot open for browsing 24/7 (765) 461-2286 AANDLBARNSOFKOKOMO@gmail.com
Angola Travel Stop 3096 West Maumee Street Angola, IN 46703 260-463-2975 X 1
Maple Lane Metals 13428 Springfield Center Rd Grabill, IN 46741 260-627-5000
J&D Woodworking 27951 Wasepi Rd Centerville, MI 49022 269-432-2788 JDWoodworking@IBYFAX.com
Wormans Outdoor Solutions 5597 W. IN 24 Logansport, IN 574-601-1629 Wormansoutdoorsolutions@gmail.com
Maple Valley Garden Center 2552 E State Rd 2 Rolling Prairie, IN 46371 219-575-0139 Abom1983@gmail.com
EJ Flooring 20 W. 100 N. Winamac, IN 574-946-0111 Ejsflooring@hotmail.com
Rabers Patio 815 N VanBuren St. Shipshewana, IN 260-336-1978 Merl@raberpatios.com
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HIDDEN REVOLUTION
A FORGOTTEN BATTLE IN NORTHWEST INDIANA
Writer / Jeff Kenney
It seems fitting, during this celebratory year of the 250th birthday of the United States of America — and in the month of July, no less — to take a brief look at what many in the Lakes readership area may be surprised to learn: Northwest Indiana was home to a Revolutionary War battle, albeit a small one.
The Battle of Petit Fort, sometimes also called the Battle of Trail Creek, was one of a handful of Revolutionary War battles fought in the Hoosier State between 1779 and 1786 (more on that later).
The story begins in the fall of 1780, when around 14 creoles — racially mixed men of French descent — departed the area of Cahokia, Illinois, toward Fort St. Joseph in present-day Niles, Michigan.
Indiana University Northwest professor Ken Schoon, in a 2024 presentation described in The Chicago Tribune, suggests that part of the impetus for the group’s enthusiasm had been the capture of the British fort at Vincennes, Indiana, by George Rogers Clark and a group of Virginians in February 1779.
“People in the Calumet region decided if they could do that, we can do the same thing,” Schoon told the audience.
Leading the party were Capt. Jean Baptiste Hamelin and Lt. Thomas Brady, acting under the order of French-born Revolutionary War patriot Augustin de La Balme.
Hamelin was a descendant of French fur traders and a French-Canadian member of the Ojibwa Tribe who supported America’s
Revolutionary cause. He had served in Congress’s Own Regiment for some time, later joining Lt. Col. George Rogers Clark in Cahokia. Brady, meanwhile, was a Cahokia resident who first enlisted on the American side in 1777.
The group made their way up the Illinois and Kankakee rivers, recruiting additional members from frontier settlements until their band consisted of some 30 people. They stopped near today’s South Bend before continuing down the St. Joseph River to Fort St. Joseph.
That fort had played an important role in supporting pro-British Native American groups of the area, including the Potawatomi and Miami, and Brady’s group of Patriots carefully planned their raid of the fort to take
This historical marker, at Indiana Dunes State Park, is one of two claiming to denote the site of the Revolutionary War Battle of Petit Fort.
Photo/Dave K26, Wikimedia Commons.
Revolutionary War patriot Augustin de La Balme, who was killed in Northeast Indiana after an unsuccessful attempt to capture Fort Detroit during the Revolutionary War. La Balme’s order for raiders to attack Fort St. Joseph in today’s Niles, Michi
place when the Native Americans would be away on a hunting trip.
The raid on Fort St. Joseph included plundering various supplies — especially trade furs — which they loaded onto pack horses for the return journey by way of the Sauk Trail, which ran through today’s Valparaiso and La Porte.
The raid ostensibly served more than one purpose. Besides its impact on Fort St. Joseph and the symbolic victory it may have demonstrated, small though it might be, it also was conceived by Augustin de La Balme as a distraction for British forces as La Balme made his way up the Wabash River for his ill-fated attack on Fort Detroit, which took place on Nov. 6, 1780.
The Detroit attack, which became known as “La Balme’s Defeat,” was put down by a Miami band led by Little Turtle, who would earn widespread fame for his command during the event and later play a key role in the Northwest
A 1920 photo of the stillexistent marker of the site of Fort St. Joseph in Niles, Michigan, which was raided in 1880 prior to the Battle of Petit Fort. Photo/public domain.
Indian War.
Meanwhile, the Fort St. Joseph raid had attracted the attention of British Lt. Dagreaux Du Quindre, who quickly gathered a group of British loyalist traders and Potawatomi under Chief Anaquiba and his son, Topeneble. Their pursuit of Brady’s raiders ended at the sand dunes near Lake Michigan in the area of today’s Indiana Dunes State Park in Porter County.
The pursuit lasted for miles through the dunes before the raiders sought refuge at Petit Fort. The fort itself was located near the mouth of today’s Dunes Creek, then known as Fort Creek. Little is known today about it, but it has been speculated that it was more likely a private residence or trading post, or perhaps a support station for larger forts of the region. In fact, its name is likely not a proper one but a descriptive one.
“Petit” in French means “small.”
This 1923 painting by Frederick C. Yohn, depicts the capture of Fort Sackville at Vincennes, Indiana, by George Rogers Clark, a significant victory for American forces in the Revolutionary War.
Petit Fort was actually under British dominion following the French and Indian War, though it’s unknown if the British ever used it, and it had been abandoned in 1779, the year before the Patriot raiders took up defensive positions within its walls on that fateful day, Dec. 5, 1780.
In a letter to Gen. Henry Watson Powell on Jan. 8, 1781, British Maj. Arent Schuyler De Peyster wrote of the incident:
“A Detachment from the Cahokias, consisting of sixteen men only, commanded by a half Indian named Jean Baptiste Hammelain, timed it so as to arrive at St. Joseph’s with Pack Horses, when the Indians were out on their first Hunt, an old Chief and his family excepted. They took the Traders Prisoners, and carried off all the goods, consisting of at least Fifty Bales, and took the Route of Chicagou.
“Lieut. Dagreaux Du Quindre, who I had stationed near St. Josephs, upon being
This marker, at Krueger Memorial Park in Michigan City, Indiana, marks the second site claiming to be that of the Revolutionary War Battle of Petit Fort. The exact location of the fort and 1780 battle eludes modern historians.
Photo/Schmiebel, Wi
informed of it, immediately assembled the Indians, and pursued them as far as the petite Fort, a days Journey beyond the Riviere Du Chemin where on the 5th December, he summoned them to surrender, on their refusing to do it he ordered the Indians to attack them. Without a loss of a man on his side, killed four, wounded two, and took seven Prisoners, the other Three escaped in the thick Wood. Three of the Prisoners were brought in here amongst whom is Brady a Superintendent of Indian affairs. The rest he suffered the Indians to take to M. Makina. I look upon these Gentry as Robbers and not Prisoners of war, having no commission, that I can learn, other than a verbal order from Mons. Trottier an Inhabitant of the Cahoes…”
It’s interesting to note that De Peyster considered the prisoners “robbers and not prisoners of war” since the raiders had no military commissions, though historians do consider the exercise and ensuing battle to be Revolutionary War events due to their attempted role in support of the Patriot military cause.
The exact site of the fort and battle remain a mystery, and in fact two historical markers tell the story of the event and its background: one at Indiana Dunes State Park and one at Krueger Memorial Park in Michigan City. Both locations claim to be the site of the battle. Some have speculated that the highest dune in the region, Mount Tom, was named after the raid’s leader, Thomas Brady, though conflicting accounts say it was named for a sailor named Tom who was buried at its peak.
As mentioned earlier, Petit Fort was not the only — and certainly not the most significant — Revolutionary War battle fought on what is today Hoosier soil.
OTHERS INCLUDE:
The Battle of the White River Forks in 1779, in which George Rogers Clark’s militia and Native Americans loyal to Britain clashed at the forks of the White River near Petersburg, Indiana.
La Balme’s Massacre in 1780, following the aforementioned La Balme attempt to capture Fort Detroit. He was killed by the Miami
along the Eel River in northeast Indiana.
Lochry’s Defeat in 1781 involved members of a Pennsylvania militia under the command of Col. Archibald Lochry, who were defeated by British and Native American forces near the Ohio River’s junction with Laughery Creek.
Piankeshaw Village Skirmish in 1786 was a battle between Patriots and pro-British
Native Americans near today’s Vincennes.
Of course, the 1779 victory of George Rogers Clark at Vincennes was quite significant and impactful enough that, during the peace talks that took place in France, Benjamin Franklin pressed for this region to become part of the United States because of Clark’s successful retaking of the British-held Fort Sackville, right here in Indiana.
For Heaven Sakes Bakery
PICNIC-PERFECT CREAMY BLT SALAD
INGREDIENTS
• 12 ounces rotini pasta
• 8 strips thick-cut bacon
• 2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
• Optional add-ins:
• Avocado
• Diced onion
• Diced peppers
• Fresh corn
• Cucumbers
• Cooked chicken
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and
rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain completely.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Arrange the bacon strips in the skillet without overlapping and cook until crispy, turning once halfway through. Drain on paper towels, then crumble or chop into bite-size pieces.
3. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the romaine lettuce into bitesize pieces. Prepare any additional ingredients, if using.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes and lettuce, along with any optional add-ins. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until evenly coated. Add more dressing, if desired.
6. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the lettuce to remain crisp.
AGAPE CONSTRUCTION
REDEFINING CUSTOM QUALITY WORK
Writer / Meredith Baker
For Lamar Yoder, owner of Agape Construction, his dream started with a vision and a rusty old pickup that refused to leave his driveway.
Today, the Shipshewana-based construction company is one of the fastest-growing builders in the region, specializing in custom homes, barndominiums, pole barns, renovations and concrete work. A few years ago, Yoder stood at a crossroads, wondering whether he could turn a lifelong passion into a company of his own.
“I always wanted my own construction company,” Yoder says.
Growing up, Yoder spent summers working alongside his father on construction sites. He learned valuable techniques and developed an appreciation for the details that separate average work from exceptional craftsmanship. After his father’s business closed during the recession, Yoder continued building his experience, eventually serving as a foreman for another construction company. Later, he stepped away from construction altogether, pursuing automotive work and custom fabrication. Still, the idea of owning a construction company never disappeared. Then came the moment he now looks back on as a turning point. Trying to generate cash, Yoder attempted to sell an old truck. The
deal fell through, and the vehicle came back. Instead of seeing disappointment, he saw opportunity.
“It felt like a sign from God,” Yoder says. With limited tools, no trailer and little startup capital, Yoder launched Agape Construction. He designed the company’s logo himself, filed the paperwork and began spreading the word. Thanks to years of experience and a strong reputation, projects began pouring in. Three years later, that momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Agape Construction handles everything from custom homes and additions to roofing, siding, renovations and commercial
projects. Through its sister company, it has also expanded into decorative concrete and flatwork, keeping more services under one roof.
For Yoder, bringing more work in-house isn’t simply a business decision. It’s about maintaining quality. Many homeowners know the frustration of coordinating multiple contractors. One delay affects another trade. One mistake becomes someone else’s problem. Yoder wanted a different approach.
“We care about what it’s going to look like when it’s finished,” he says.
That attention to detail appears in places many clients never notice: proper flashing, water management, precision trim work and carefully aligned finishes. Small details can quietly protect a home for years after construction is complete. The goal isn’t simply creating a beautiful home. It’s building one that lasts.
While some builders chase every industry trend, Yoder is more interested in what serves the homeowner. Quality construction still requires quality materials, skilled labor and careful planning. Rather than competing to be the lowest bidder, Agape Construction focuses on delivering value.
“We’re worth what we price,” Yoder says. That philosophy hasn’t won every project. Some customers choose lower-cost options, but many return later. Word-of-mouth referrals have become one of the company’s strongest growth drivers, helping fuel an expansion that has seen Agape Construction grow more than 100% over the past year and a half. That growth reflects both steady demand and a reputation built on quality and service.
The company was recently recognized among the top contractors in Elkhart County and earned recognition for
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its continued growth and customer satisfaction. Those honors underscore the momentum behind Agape Construction’s recent expansion.
The company’s name wasn’t chosen by accident. “Agape” refers to selfless, unconditional love, a concept that has shaped Yoder’s vision from the beginning. His goal extends beyond constructing homes. He wants to create opportunities to serve customers well and build a company known for integrity as much as craftsmanship.
Looking ahead, Yoder sees opportunities in larger custom homes, lake properties and high-end projects that allow his team to showcase its creativity and attention to detail. Yet even as the company grows, the mission remains unchanged.
“Our goal is to do the best that we can for people,” he says.
Perhaps that’s why Agape Construction’s
motto feels less like a marketing slogan and more like a philosophy: “Your imagination is evidence of things unseen.”
For more information on Agape Construction and its services, call 574-5246583, email agapeconstruction23@gmail. com, or visit AgapeConstructionLLC.com.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026
JULY
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 6:30p 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.
7
6p - 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.
4
7a – 12p - Koontz Lake Fire Dept Pancake Breakfast.
JULY 4TH AT KOONTZ LAKE
11a – Kayak Race at Kramer Beach – Bring your own life vest and kayak.
12:15p – Golf Cart Parade starting at 11958 E Woodbrine Ln. Carts must be registered and decorated in a patriotic theme. Like up at 11:30. Noon – 3p – DJ and Rockin D’s Dogs at Kramer’s Beach.
Dusk – Floatilla (boat parade).
25
10a – 1p – Koontz Lake Lions Club Port-a-Pit fundraiser at Territorial Engineering bldg located at 7908 St. Rd. 23, Koontz Lake.
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.
4
250 year celebration events – All activities at the BCC building.
8am – Run Walk Roll (residents only)
1p – Golf Cart Parade
5p – 7p – Food trucks
7p – Live music
10p – Fireworks launching from Rubert’s Resort located at 3408 West Shore Drive.
11
9am - LOWPOA Meeting at the BCC Building, 4374 North Shore Drive, Bremen, IN.
18
9am – BCC Meeting at the BCC Building, 4374 North Shore Drive, Bremen, IN. Lake Maxinkuckee/Culver/Marshall County – ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.
Lake Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County
ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.
9a – 1p – Culver Farmers Market at the Culver Town Park. You will find local meats, produce, baked goods, sweets, handcrafted gifts, and more for your favorite vendors. For more updates, you can follow The Culver Farmers Market is also on Facebook and IG @ culverfarmersmarket, their website culverfarmersmarket.org, or emailing them at culverfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
8:30am – Yoga at the Beach Lodge, all levels are welcome. Chair yoga is at 10am.
Bass Lake Festival – Visit Bass Lake Festival on
Lighted Patriotic Displays. Fore more information, go to Fulton County, Indiana’s Facebook page.
Procession & Reading of Declaration of Independence.
Knox - Winamac Community Health Center
Roger Farris, NP
John Bulger , MD
Lesley Metts, NP Lori Truesdell, LCSW
Kyla Schreck, NP
