The Lakes Magazine February 2020

MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2020

An Art Revolution Bringing Culture to Small-Town America

TheLakesMagazine.com

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30

THE LAKES MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS John & Mandi Lewandowski

John@TownePost.com / 574-249-9217 Mandi@TownePost.com

TOWNE POST CEO Tom Britt

Tom@TownePost.com

TOWNE POST PRESIDENT Jeanne Britt

Jeanne@TownePost.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Robert Turk

Rob@TownePost.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Austin Vance

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Valerie Randall

EDITORIAL MANAGER

THE HEARTLAND ARTISTS GALLERY: AN ART REVOLUTION BRINGING CULTURE TO SMALL-TOWN AMERICA

It doesn’t take an aesthete to appreciate the bright, airy Heartland Gallery on the corner of Michigan and LaPorte in Plymouth with its alcoves tastefully arranged with pieces by local creatives.

7 Interesting Twist: Perfect Twist

43 5 Tips to Help Keep Your New

Pretzels Offers Memorable Tastes

Year’s Resolutions

11 Good Signs: OTES Signs & Graphics 47 It’s a Date! 6 Valentine’s Day Date

Offers Wide Range of Services

Night Ideas

15 Ponderosa Steakhouse Celebrates 49 January Crossword Puzzle Answer 35 Years In Plymouth 51 Culligan Water: Owner Talks 19 Pack Your Suitcase: Planning Tips Serving Local Rochester for Your Spring Break Trips

Community

24 February Crossword Puzzle 26 D&J Roofing and Construction:

54 Legacy Salon & Spa: Culver Salon

Owner Talks Success & Serving the Michiana Community

30 The Heartland Artists Gallery: An

Art Revolution Bringing Culture to Small-Town America

39 Rochester Bagel & Coffee House

Offers Diverse Range of Services At New Location

59 The Collective at 120 South Main:

Josh Brown

Josh@TownePost.com

FEBRUARY WRITERS

Angela Cornell / Ashley Miller Mary Lowry / Matt Keating Abigail Hake / Lindsey Thompson Seth Johnson

FEBRUARY PHOTOGRAPHERS Ashley Miller / Jubilee Edgell

SHOP LOCAL! Help our local economy by shopping local.

Advertising supporters of the The Lakes Magazine offset the costs of publication and mailing, keeping this publication FREE. Show your appreciation by thanking them with your business.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS ARE SPONSORED CONTENT

The The Lakes Magazine is published by the Towne Post Network and is written for and by local area residents. Over 13,000 copies are distributed each month in The Lakes area.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

8800 North Street, Suite 117, Fishers IN 46038 Phone/Fax: 317-810-0011

Retail Concept Supports Local Businesses

62 What’s Happening In February At The Lakes

TheLakesMagazine.com TownePost.com

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Interesting Twist Perfect Twist Pretzels Offers Memorable Tastes Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owner Brandon Esh

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 7

ometimes there is nothing better than sinking your teeth into a warm, delicious pretzel.

Making pretzels memorable takes time and patience. Just ask Brandon Esh, owner of Perfect Twist Pretzels on East Market Street in Nappanee. Esh has gone out of his way to give his customers a pretzel to remember, and his commitment to excellence has been rewarded with faithful fans.

“We first opened September 9, 2018, but I had started working on this shop idea in March of that year,” Esh says. “I was working in an RV factory from 4 a.m. to noon, and gradually getting plans together to open a pretzel shop even though I didn’t have a name. It wasn’t until my sister started her (job) training in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, that she accidentally came up with the name Perfect Twist Pretzels.”

Esh isn’t afraid of working hard to meet his goals.

“I had worked for my uncle at Weaver Furniture Barn for a few months before I started at a factory when I was 15 years old,” Esh says. “I think that’s what ultimately motivated me to begin plans for a business at 19 years old.”

Esh notes that he has big goals.

“I haven’t found my secret to success yet, but my plan is to bring forth the best quality products available,” Esh says.

Customers already have their favorites.

“With nothing masking the flavor of our freshly baked dough, our original pretzel is definitely the customer favorite, but the sausage and cheese pretzel and the chicken bacon ranch pockets are pretty heavy hitters as well,” Esh says. “My favorite item is the cinnamon and sugar pretzel bites because when they are fresh they seem to melt in your mouth.”

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Fresh, hand-rolled soft pretzels and pretzel pockets 401 East Market Street, Nappanee (574) 248-1715

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The soft pretzels and pretzel bites have been very popular.

“We have four different flavors of soft pretzels, and all soft pretzel flavors are available as pretzel bites,” Esh says.

“We also have four different pretzel pockets including chicken bacon ranch, pepperoni pizza, sausage and cheese, and ham and cheese. The pretzel pockets are meats and cheeses wrapped in soft pretzel dough.”

Esh has received a lot of compliments.

“Our recipe is unique in itself,” Esh says.

“We feel we have the perfect amount of sweetness so that you taste it, but it still tastes like a soft pretzel.”

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Esh says he loves Nappanee.

“There’s a reason everyone wants to live in Nappanee, he says. “It’s small enough to be cozy but large enough to keep a tourist busy for a long weekend. We have a lot of one-of-a-kind little shops like ours that really complete the setting for a perfect hometown.”

Esh also values the family atmosphere.

“One thing I have learned is that nobody makes it on their own, and I couldn’t have made it that first month without my family,” Esh says. “They continue to help me in ways I don’t always appreciate as much as I should. I appreciate this opportunity God has given me and my family to become contributors to Nappanee’s success.”

Perfect Twist Pretzels is located at 401 East Market Street in Nappanee. Call 574248-1715 or visit perfecttwistpretzels.com for more info.

CONTACT US! (574)933-3805

MICAHBRADLEY@BARNWOODMASTERS.COM WWW.BARNWOODMASTERS.COM thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 9

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Good Signs

OTES Signs & Graphics Offers Wide Range of Services OTES Signs & Graphics was presented with the Starke County Business of the Year award. A few weeks earlier company leaders OTES Signs & Graphics is in the business of heard OTES was not only the September helping individuals and companies get the Starke County Business of the Month, but word out. Its products are often produced had also been named the Northwest Indiana to celebrate special occasions or upcoming Small Business Development Center sales events. Recently the company Emerging Business of the Year. was honored for its impact on the local community, and employees had the thrill “I think that it is important for a business of designing a yard sign that announced the to care about the community they are in,” accolades. says Nan Wellman, owner and president of OTES. “I care about the people who work At the Starke County Chamber of for me and as my company grows, I want to Commerce Awards held last November, Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

contribute to the community.”

The company, which designs and makes colorful banners, posters, t-shirts, yard signs, car decals and window decals, has been located in North Judson for three years. From the start, it has supported the community by promoting and announcing events and activities on its Facebook page.

For the past two years it has sponsored the June Movie in the Park at Norwayne Field and has arranged for participants to receive free popcorn. In addition, OTES Signs & Graphics has shown local support by

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 11

donating signage if a need arises.

“I started Outstanding Tradeshow Exhibit Services (OTES) in Illinois, near Chicago, seven years ago,” Wellman says. “Three years ago I moved it here after I saw a need for jobs in North Judson. OTES is a trade show and exhibition business that has clients all over the United States and internationally. We print graphics for exhibits. We saw a want for a local company that could produce graphics for the community, and OTES Signs & Graphics began.”

In addition to signage, OTES produces decals that can be applied to cars, trucks and buildings. Area residents have probably seen the work of OTES throughout the community without realizing it - some examples are quotes on vinyl that decorate the walls of Ancilla College, and the windows of

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“OTES Signs & Graphics is a woman-owned business that cares about employing people, and I feel that makes a difference in the community.”

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the Starke County History Center. Stacy Heating & Air sports OTES decals on its truck, as does H & T Electrical Services.

OTES has a library of designs that can be applied to t-shirts or sweatshirts.

Customers can also work with the staff to come up with something unique.

All products can be personalized, and past company projects include wedding guest books. Banners proclaiming anniversaries, birthdays and graduations are very popular.

“OTES Signs & Graphics is a womanowned business that cares about employing people, and I feel that makes a difference in the community,” Wellman says.

OTES Signs & Graphics is located at 5235 West State Road 10 in North Judson. For more info call 888-735-4348 or visit them online at otesinc.com.

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PONDEROSA STEAKHOUSE CELEBRATES 35 YEARS IN PLYMOUTH Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

C

arolyn and Thomas G. Blackburn, co-owners of Ponderosa Steakhouse on North Michigan Street in Plymouth, say they have formed many great friendships at Ponderosa over the years.

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The Blackburn family’s friends and customers know they are going to get a delicious meal at a restaurant known for its award-winning history of excellence.

If that weren’t enough, Ponderosa Steakhouse also offers several choices for every appetite.

Thomas says the Plymouth Ponderosa has maintained a strong reputation for great food and excellent service for many years.

“It was built in 1984,” Thomas says. “It opened on December 17, 1984, and I was the general manager. Ponderosa was owned by Venture Properties, Inc. Chris and Alan Collins were the principal owners. I bought them out in 2002, but I have led the (Ponderosa) management team here for the entire 35 years.”

Thomas notes that the Ponderosa Steakhouse chain started in 1965 in Kokomo, Indiana.

“It was family-owned,” he says. “During its growth period over the last decade, our style of restaurant has had its challenges. There have been three different owners of the corporate entity, but we have managed to survive and grow in Plymouth.”

Thomas credits his long-time customers for the growth.

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“The Plymouth community and all of the surrounding areas of Marshall and Starke counties have been huge supporters as customers,” he says. “We also have many travelers from other areas.”

Thomas says the great food has been a big incentive for his repeat business.

“Our (customer favorites) are our

Co-Owner Tom Blackburn

chicken wings, fried chicken, meatloaf, beef and noodles, and soups and salads,” Thomas says. “They seem to lead the list of (favorite) buffet items. Our top sirloins, ribeyes and sirloin tips lead the steak category.”

Thomas has his own favorites.

“I am a small potato, salad and bread kind of guy,” he says.

Thomas noted that Ponderosa Steakhouse offers one low price for customers to experience new food each and every time they visit the restaurant.

The staple buffet items and rotating menu options at Ponderosa offer hearty and healthy choices. Customers with a preference for gluten-free food also have options. The all-you-can-eat buffet includes a variety of food choices for every appetite.

“Ponderosa also has additional menu items that are popular such as barbecue ribs, chicken and seafood that round out the entrée menu,” Thomas says.

Guests can enjoy two hot buffets every day with staples such as chicken wings and mashed potatoes, and two cold buffets with items such as fruit, salad and pudding.

Thomas adds that the soup kiosk features three different soups every day. There are also different buffet theme nights.

Thomas notes that Ponderosa also has a breakfast buffet on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. The breakfasts feature a wide selection of pastries, cold cereal, toast, oatmeal, French toast sticks, pancakes, waffles, sausage and more.

Discounts are also available.

“Senior citizens over the age of 55 have a discount menu, or they can receive a 10% discount off regular menu items,” Thomas says. “A kids menu for kids age 12 and under is also available.” thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 17

coming to Plymouth. He and Carolyn have had many great employees at Ponderosa over the years.

“My daughter Kathryn and son Greg have worked with me for many years,” Thomas says. “I would also like to mention Jim McClellan, who has managed with me for a long time.”

Thomas tells his guests to save room for dessert. The delicious desserts at Ponderosa include cookies, ice cream, sundaes, brownies, cakes and pies.

Thomas is proud that Ponderosa is an award-winning restaurant.

“We were QSC (quality, service and cleanliness) award winners for the entire franchised community in 1986 when there were over 250 restaurants involved,” he says.

“It was great that we won. The inspection of the restaurant was very thorough, and it

says a lot that we won over so many other restaurants. I’m very proud of that. We won a trip to Great America Theme Park and closed for a day with pay. We are very involved in the community, and have been recognized by many different organizations.”

Thomas says he and Carolyn moved to Plymouth in October of 1984 to help with the opening of the restaurant, and have live in Plymouth ever since.

Thomas worked for Ponderosa’s corporate offices as a manager and supervisor before

Thomas also can’t say enough about the great people of Plymouth.

“We have been blessed to be a part of this community,” he says. “All of the people that have been a part of our staff over these 35 years have gotten us to where we are today.

They have been great.”

Ponderosa Steakhouse is located at 2100 North Michigan Street in Plymouth. Call 574-936-4128 or go to plymouthponderosa.com for more info.

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18 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Planning Tips for Your Spring Break Trips Writer / Lindsey Thompson Photography Provided

The weeks after Winter Break can drag on and on, especially during an exceptionally cold and dreary winter. A little Spring Break planning can be just the thing to get you out of the winter doldrums and looking forward to some time away.

Whether you stay close or travel far, here are some tips for planning your Spring Break trip.

1. Book Early Lots of people travel during Spring Break so booking early assures you can get better flights, hotel rooms and attraction tickets.

Schools typically release their yearly calendars at the beginning of the school year, giving you plenty of heads up to book Spring Break early.

When you book early, you have a better chance of getting a better deal and making sure you book just the right flight or hotel for your family. The longer you wait to book flights, for example, the less likely you are to get seats together or even be on the same flight.

2. Set a Budget Lay out a travel budget for your Spring Break trip and stick to it. Making family memories on a vacation may be priceless, but taking a trip you can’t afford isn’t worth going into debt. Just like it’s beneficial to book early, it also helps to save early for your Spring Break trip.

Spring Break doesn’t fall too far after Christmas, another expensive time for your family budget, so planning ahead allows you to spend money on both. Use a budget management tool like Mint to help you plan and save.

3. Dial into Deals Travel deals abound, you just have to do a little digging to find them. Not just for massages and Thai food deals, Groupon and LivingSocial both have travel sections full of deals. Groupon has a special Spring Break page that offers lots of great ideas and travel deals including Smoky Mountain cabins, indoor water parks and beach getaways.

Online travel agencies like Expedia, Travelocity and Kayak allow you to search for travel deals all around the world. Many even have special Spring Break pages, providing trip suggestions for flights, hotels and activities.

If you’ll be traveling by air, some travel experts suggest the best time to purchase airline tickets is on a Tuesday, as prices tend to drop that day each week. Sign up for airline and hotel emails to unlock other deals.

4. Utilize Apps Tons of apps exist to help take the stress out

of Spring Break travel planning. Hopper is an excellent tool for finding the best flights, as the app lets you set up alerts for different itineraries and even allows you to book right from your phone. TripIt helps you keep all your reservations and itineraries organized, putting everything (flights, hotel reservations, car rentals, etc.) right at your fingertips.

If you’ll be traveling by car, Roadtrippers takes the hassle out of mapping your route, giving you suggestions for stops along the way and up-to-date road conditions.

5. Think Outside the Box Florida, Mexico, Disney. These might be great Spring Break destinations, but they’re also some of the most popular and most crowded and most expensive. Avoid the crowds and consider an alternative Spring Break destination.

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Designer Area Rugs

something for the whole family, from museums to monuments. Sedona, Arizona offers an escape from the cold and amazing outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.

If your passport is up-to-date, consider running for the Northern border and visiting one of Canada’s great cities.

Montreal is an eclectic mix of French colonial architecture, Bohemian attitude and modern-day sites. Calgary’s natural beauty and small-town feel makes it a great choice for the outdoorsy type and Niagara Falls has fun for the whole family.

6. Look Local Don’t overlook a Spring Break trip to a local destination or a staycation in your own city. Staying local helps cut down on travel costs and gives you an opportunity to see your town through different eyes.

Visit that local museum you’ve never been to, try a new restaurant or cheer on the hometown sports team. Book a local hotel or bed and breakfast, or even find an Airbnb in a different part of town.

Just like out-of-town visitors, locals can take advantage of special deals and discounts through organizations like the visitor’s bureau. They often have coupons on their websites and at their offices for attractions, restaurants and hotels.

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ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION Owner Talks Success & Serving the Michiana Community Writer / Seth Johnson Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

At D&J Roofing and Construction, quality is of the utmost importance.

“We especially take pride in doing good work,” Co-owner Delbert Troyer says.

“We’re not the fastest people, and we’re not the cheapest people. That’s not our goal.

Our goal is to be the best. We pay attention to detail, and when we leave, it’ll be done right.”

Located between Bremen and Nappanee, D&J Roofing and Construction services its surrounding northern Indiana radius, specializing in premium roofing services as well as energy-efficient homes and post-frame construction. Founded by Delbert Troyer and John Borkholder in 2013, D&J provides customized solutions to fit customer needs, while ensuring customer satisfaction through constant communication.

Co-Owner John Borkholder

When it comes to roofing, Troyer explains

that D&J Roofing and Construction tends to focus on specialty projects.

“We do all types of roofing, but especially high end,” he says. “We do a lot of asphalt and all kinds of metal. We do stonecoated steel and steel shingle.”

In addition to roofing, D&J Roofing and Construction specializes in building new-energy homes. For those unfamiliar, zero-energy homes can be a great longterm investment, as all heating, cooling, lighting and appliances are powered by energy the house produces.

“These are post-frame homes, so they’re very strong,” Troyer says. “We actually put reflective insulation under the concrete, on the walls and under the roof, so that really helps with the heat - in the summertime especially.”

With new-energy homes, D&J tapes up everything on the outside of the structure to “really make it tight,” Troyer explains.

“A popular myth is that you can’t make your house too tight - people think you’ll have mold problems,” he says. “But I tell them, ‘No. We want it as tight as possible, and then we control the ventilation.’”

This approach ultimately keeps moisture from affecting insulation.

“We don’t want that wall to breathe on its own because then we’ve got hot and cold meeting in the wall cavity, which causes condensation,” Troyer says. “And if you have condensation in your insulation, its value basically goes away.”

When it comes to staffing, D&J Roofing

and Construction carefully vets all potential employees.

“We do a DISC profile with them, and that tells us a little bit about their personality that’s before we ever hire them,” Troyer says.

“We make sure they know how to do the job right because we know our name is on the project.”

All in all, D&J Roofing and Construction enjoys serving the Michiana community.

“I definitely enjoy working in the area,” Troyer says. “We’ve had lots of good customers and good people to work with, with very few bad stories. It’s just a good area to be in.”

Contact D&J Roofing and Construction at 574-773-0494, and djroofingllc@gmail. com. For more info on services, visit DandJRoofingandConstruction.com.

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The Heartland Artists Gallery An Art Revolution Bringing Culture to Small-Town America Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

The Heartland Artists Gallery Team: Shelley Heiden, President Anna Kietzman, Kathy Zents, Jon Miller, Christa Risher.

t doesn’t take an aesthete to appreciate the bright, airy Heartland Gallery on the corner of Michigan and LaPorte in Plymouth with its alcoves tastefully arranged with pieces by local creatives. It doesn’t take an enthusiast to be impressed by the display of brochures right inside the front door, all about the different art classes offered at the establishment. It doesn’t take an artist to discover that the docent behind the counter is a creative in their own right and loves working at the gallery. It doesn’t take an artist — but to create this kind of atmosphere, it takes a passionate community, one that strongly believes in the power and importance of art in smalltown America.

To the movers and shakers around Plymouth in the late 1970s, a display of the arts was nothing short of a cultural must. A club of artists and appreciators met regularly in Herb Eveland’s art classroom in the high school to enjoy art and solidarity as the group grew.

“I think when they started, they had no idea that it was going to continue for so long and grow so much,” says former president and long-time member, Jayne Jacobson. “I think we just sort of thought, ‘Well, here’s a group of people now who are interested. Let’s get together.’”

Founding member and former president, Ed Pullen, vividly remembers those days. The idea to found an art gallery was originally his. As someone who lived in several cultural centers around the nation before settling in Plymouth, his reason was quite simple: “Plymouth needs an art gallery. Without an art gallery, a town is

Art

By 1984, the club was ready to form an official art association who met not only to enjoy art but also to bring it to the community in the form of annual art shows around town, at places like the public library and Ancilla College, among many others. For 15 years, they displayed their works at various local establishments until they finally found a place of their own in the downtown area around the early 2000s.

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just a truck stop.”

Having a physical location was an incredible milestone for them, but it came business overhead. It didn’t take long until the bottom line was nearly the demise of the gallery.

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“We were totally broke. I paid the bills out of my pocket to keep us open,” Pullen says.

Over the next decade, the association rented several different spaces downtown.

The turning point came when local business owner and arts supporter, Susan Fortin, approached them about moving to their current location.

“I said, ‘We are so broke right now, we can’t even look at anything we need to pay rent for,’” remembers Jacobson.

However, Fortin was correct — the location was perfect for a gallery. So, Pullen and Jacobson asked the city for help. After meeting with the mayor, they received a $5,000 annual stipend — much more than they had imagined.

“She and I walked out and we were this high off the ground,” Pullen holds his hand three feet from the floor, grinning from ear to ear.

That was in 2013. In the last six years, they’ve seen an explosion of growth.

Currently, they have more than 80 members and pull artists from all around Marshall County and beyond.

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“We have anything from photography to watercolors, acrylics and oils, to pastels and fiber and textile art. We also have ceramics, pottery, jewelry, glass, stained glass, resin,” says current president Anna Kietzman.

“We’re always looking for those new artists to come in.”

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One of their most obvious purposes is to help artists sell their work — not only in the gallery itself but also at various shows and exhibitions across the county. But their purpose goes a lot deeper than just providing an outlet for creatives.

“Artists can’t be supported fully if they aren’t viewed as professionals,” Kietzman

says. “It’s one thing if our artists voluntarily donate their work, but if we keep doing that, what does that do for artists all around? It undermines them. It undermines their work, their time, them as professionals in the workforce. That comes down to the crux of our mission: we are supporting local art and artists. We have an important job to do, and that is to reshape some of these perspectives, not just with challenging them with what art they see but also people need to respect an artist and what it is that they do.”

However, to assume that the Heartland is only a haven for artists would still be to miss their ambition to see art on the streets of Plymouth and beyond.

of their situation, especially since larger Those volunteer hours mean the difference communities, like South Bend, have tried and between success and failure for the gallery. failed to establish a gallery like the Heartland. They have no paid employees, even on the executive board.

“I guess there are two main differences. One is that we really have the support of our Part of the sheer number of volunteer community,” Jacobson says. “The other thing hours the gallery receives is because the is that we have a lot of volunteer hours from basic membership package requires it. our members. A lot of other places don’t have But members aren’t limited to working that.” behind the counter. There are nine different

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“We know at least anecdotally that the programs that we have — the influence we have — is having an impact on the community,” Kietzman says. “We know what having art does for a community, but to have an actual organization, a place where people know they can go, is incredibly important.

“Everyone wants art. They want that in their town and community. They want it in their lives. But a lot of folks don’t know how to go about doing that. And that’s what we are. We are more than a gallery. The gallery is an important part of who we are, but ultimately, we are a visual arts organization and we have many programs that extend outside of the gallery itself.”

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Some of those programs are art classes for children and adults alike. Other programs are the result of strong, symbiotic partnerships with other businesses and organizations around town that are focused on beautifying places of business and even Marshall county itself with murals, banners and other kinds of art.

“If there’s anything anyone wants in the city,” says head marketer Shelley Heiden.

“We’ve become that place that’s the incubator of all the arts. The city knows it and uses it, which helps us thrive.”

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committees that members can serve on, each that shapes and serves the gallery. However, the real reason behind the volunteering is because the members believe in the Heartland Gallery and the causes it represents.

Since the artists and art appreciators who volunteer at the gallery also have other jobs, it’s not uncommon that they inadvertently advertise for the gallery during their day job.

One case-in-point is Jon Miller, who is the vice president and a popular art instructor.

“He’s a hair-dresser and he is booked up all the time because he has a following there as well.

He brings a lot of those to his classes and vice versa,” Kietzman says.

Every month, the gallery has a show or event.

This month, the gallery is featuring regional artist Avon Waters and his beautiful pastels.

However, the gallery’s main events happen in March, May, June and October. In March, the association is proud to present its annual National Youth Art Month Exhibit, which features art done by local K-12 students, which brings families into the galleries.

The gallery holds two juried art shows every year, both of which are organized by the Heartland’s curator, Carrolyne Babcock. The first one is in May when the gallery puts on their Small Wonders Art Exhibit. For this event, all art pieces must fit within a 12-by12 inch format.

“I’ll tell you what, you bring that artwork in and there are a couple of rulers setting out and they are evaluated to the millimeter,” Kietzman says. “It’s a hoot to watch.”

In June, the association hosts its Art in the Street Festival.

“I think we started out on the sidewalks with six vendors,” Kietzman says. “I think we had 36 or 37 art vendors and an additional 10 or so kids’ booths, and I think we had more than 1,000 attendees last year.”

Their largest one is in October and showcases the best and brightest artists, drawing from northern Indiana and even from out-of-state. Several awards are given out at this show, one of which is chosen by

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popular vote at the end of the show.

As the Heartland Artists Gallery looks to the future, they believe that their influence will continue to grow, expanding until they become an art-stop between Chicago, Detroit, Fort Wayne and Indianapolis.

They also are looking forward to developing an unofficial art block with Wild Rose Moon, the Rees Theater, and hopefully others. “[They] support us, and we support them,” Jacobson says. “I think that’s the way it is throughout our community, which is a strength. We could very easily be more insular and isolationist here, but it’s fun working together.”

Heartland Gallery is located at 101 N. Michigan St. in Plymouth. A full list of their 2020 events and more information about their art classes can be found online at heartlandartgallery.com. To contact them, email them at heartlandartistsgallery@ gmail.com or call them at 574-936-9515.

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Owner Pia Cannedy 38 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Rochester Bagel & Coffee House Remains a Community Favorite Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Pia Cannedy, owner of Rochester Bagel & Coffee House, has enjoyed the rich success of her establishment, and appreciates its history.

“The Brash family first opened Rochester Bagel in August of 1998, over 20 years ago,” Cannedy says. “There have been a handful of other owners over the years, but it was during the period of 12 years that Terry Cressinger owned it when he perfected the bagel-making process. His disciplines and practices are what we have continued, because he is quite the genius. I purchased it in 2015, and have enjoyed watching it grow and flourish. I know I still have some surprises up my sleeve to wow customers, and I would like the opportunity to bring them to fruition, so I may be here for a while.”

Cannedy noted that her children, Kianna, Ava and Ehren first inspired her to purchase the bagel shop.

“My daughters begged me to do it, and promised to eat bagels every day and work with me side by side,” Cannedy says. “The promise of spending time with them while I worked was really the inspiration to take on this project. It may look like a small business, but the commitment was huge and the hours are long. It’s been well worth it. I love the process, and have had to learn it well to ensure we maintain consistency and quality.”

Cannedy adds that her “craft begins with making the bagels from scratch, so each batch is unique. Our second priority is we fill it with fresh, quality ingredients, from the cream cheeses and butters to the slow-cooked Italian beef and pulled pork,” she adds. “We want customers to love what they are eating and come back to try more.”

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Rochester residents have kept Rochester Bagel & Coffee House’s business thriving over the years.

“The Rochester community has been amazing,” Cannedy says.

“I love meeting new people everyday and the response has thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 39

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been overwhelmingly positive and embracing. I absolutely love that we have the privilege to know people by name, get to watch their families grow, and get to meet their loved ones when they come into town.”

Cannedy’s personal favorite is the turkey, bacon and Swiss with avocado on any type of savory bagel.

Cannedy hails from San Francisco and says she knows great food.

“I grew up with it and have a palette for fresh, tasty and wholesome (food),” Cannedy says. “But what is really important to me is that the customer is very satisfied and has enjoyed their experience with us.”

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Cannedy says she has grown to embrace and respect the Rochester community.

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“The town exudes strong moral value, and we are all connected,” Cannedy says. “I was born and grew up near San Francisco, California, in a small beach town called Pacifica, and there were a lot of great attributes I can recall, but my most fond memories are the people.

Through the years I have had many adventures and lived in exciting towns, but there is not one place that I can recall where I can honestly say that I have met so many people that possess honesty, warmth, sincerity, integrity, pride and loyalty as I witness daily in Rochester, Indiana. I love what I do and do what I love, and for that reason I just recently put that up on my wall.”

Cannedy says the bagels are what

40 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

people come in for, but it’s the great staff that keeps them coming back. Her daughter Kianna, who goes to Arizona State University, works at Rochester Bagel when she is home.

“She enjoys the customer service and interaction,” Cannedy says of Kianna.

“My daughter Ava is very focused on getting the sandwiches and orders made just right, and served timely. My daughter Ehren has learned the bagel making process, and makes the best cheddar cheese bagels.”

Before

Rochester Bagel & Coffee House customers have plenty of choices.

There are 23 bagels to choose from, nine homemade spreads, bagel pizza, and hot and cold sandwiches.

“Our bacon scallion cream cheese is a savory favorite, as well as Cinnabutter and maple walnut for our sweet bagels,” Cannedy says. “Our coffees are absolutely fabulous. Our Jet tea, chai lattes, and the wide assortment of very tasty loose-leaf teas are favorites.”

During the first two weeks of February, customers can order heart-shaped bagels.

“Call us and let us know 24 hours ahead to fulfill your order,” Cannedy says. “On Valentine’s Day we will have a limited supply on hand, but if you order ahead we can guarantee what you need.”

Rochester Bagel & Coffee House is located at 231 East 9th Street in Rochester. For more info, call 574-2234100 or visit rochesterbagel.com.

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5 Tips to Help Keep Your New Year's Resolutions Writer / Abigail Hake Photography Provided

It’s that time of year again — the time when we all start thinking about what we’d like to do more of or be better at in the coming year. Did you know people have been setting New Year’s resolutions for more than 4,000 years! It’s assumed almost everyone has made a New Year’s resolution — and then broken it. It’s crazy, I know, but if you think about it, even if you fail, it’s a great way to kick off a new year. A resolution is technically something we choose to do, or not to do, but here are a few tips for how you can choose to keep those resolutions in 2020.

1. Make a List Many people make lists on the daily.

Whether it’s a to-do list or shopping list, we like to see things we need to do and what we’ve completed. It’s a visual thing.

Sometimes just having something written down on paper helps you stick to it. It also makes it more real. So write out your resolutions on paper or even better get fancy and frame them! But even without a frame, put it somewhere you’ll see it every day so you are reminded of what you resolved to do.

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 43

2. Choose The Right Resolutions The top three resolutions most years are related to health and fitness, but does that work for you? It might, but it might not. Don’t feel like you have to pick a resolution based on what everyone else is doing or usually does. Be original. Stay true to you and choose a resolution that really matters to you. If you can really get behind something, you’ll have better success with accomplishing it!

3. Try Mini-Goals Mini goals or mini resolutions are a great way to reach a big goal with baby steps! It alleviates the making of a larger, terrifying and daunting resolution and instead breaks it up to make it more manageable. Mini goals are easier and typically require less time. Try to set a smaller goal for each month and by the time you complete all 12 months, you’ll have achieved that giant goal you weren’t quite sure you could take on in January. Setting mini-goals will help you accomplish resolutions in a more incremental way and stay on track all year long!

4. Have a Buddy Accountability is a huge part of forging through tough times and keeping our resolutions in the New Year. Doing it on your own can be hard. But you don’t have to do it all by yourself. Find a friend who has the same goals for the year or similar ones who can keep you motivated when times get tough. Even telling someone your resolutions can keep 44 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

you accountable. They can ask you how things are going and understand when you need a little pick me up or break. It’s always more fun to do things with friends, and New Year’s resolutions are no different.

5. Reward Yourself Everyone does better with a reward dangling in front of them. Rewards make us all feel good. Maybe if you are working on your food intake, you have a cheat day if you can get through two weeks of staying on track. Perhaps if you resolved to journal every day, once you’ve done it for a month, treat yourself with a cool new pen! If you were trying to give up those coffee shop visits to save more money, treat yourself to one cup of coffee if you stuck to it for 15 days in a row! Once you’ve completed a resolution, no matter how big or small, rewards can continue to help us move towards our goals. It keeps us motivated and reminds us that we are doing a good job.

No matter how it goes this coming year, just do your best. Do what works for you and if you need help sticking to something, make sure to ask for help. Just choosing to embrace change or taking on new challenges in the New Year is a huge step for a lot of people and we believe in you!

Wishing you the best success in your resolutions and a wonderful 2020!

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FRAIN MORTUARY, INC.

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305 E Main St Winamac, IN 46996 574-946-3222 www.frainmortuary.com

46 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

6 Valentine’s Day Date Night Ideas Writer / Abigail Hake Photography Provided

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you probably fall into one of two buckets - prepared or unprepared. There’s a few things to remember when it comes to the love that surrounds this heart-filled day.

Valentine’s Day is just that, just another day.

So don’t put too much pressure on yourself when you are trying to plan. Anytime you get to spend with that special person should be enough. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be a great day or night! But if you are still working out the details of how your day of cupid will go down, here’s a few ideas to get you started.

1. Game Night As kids, we tend to think of game night as a family thing to do. But why not play just as couples? Sometimes we all need time to unwind and enjoy some good old-fashioned

fun. A little friendly competition can really create some friendly tension between you and your partner. There are a lot of breweries and coffee shops that could make this an easy night out and a lot of them have game libraries to use so you don’t need to bring your own, unless you want to. If staying in, grab a charcuterie tray, some champagne and your favorite board game and enjoy some one-on-one time.

something NOT on Valentine’s Day. They often have many options around this time and if you are flexible with dates you might be able to find just the right menu!

3. Fondue at Home It seems like fondue restaurants are always the first to book up this time of year but if you are into fondue, it can be done at home too! Order a fondue set if you don’t already have one and purchase pre-cut food items so 2. Cooking Class you don’t have to do a ton of work. Light a A couple that cooks together, stays together, fire, lay out some pillows to sit on and pour right? Or eats well together! Check out local a couple glasses of wine and enjoy yourself. cooking schools or even local cooking stores This is also a fun night for the family if you for special classes just for Valentine’s Day. don’t have a sitter!

Many of them have classes all year round but add a few more during this time of year. 4. A Stay Away If you think about it at least a little in The best part about this is that you’ll have advance, book a night at a hotel for you and a great dinner at the end of the night and your loved one. Maybe choose a place a little probably a few drinks in between. This is nicer than you might normally stay or try a also a great one if you are open to doing

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 47

new spot! Feel free to select one with enticing amenities.

Enjoy a nice dinner at the restaurant downstairs, a couple’s massage in the spa or a drink at the bar before heading back up to bed. If you are the more quiet type, maybe order room service, rent a movie and cozy into bed. Even enjoy sleeping in the next morning. There’s so many options with a quick night away!

5. Planetarium or Stargazing Almost everyone loves looking up at the stars. There’s something about that great, big open sky that is so intriguing. Depending on the weather, you might grab a blanket (or two) two chairs or the bed of a truck, a warm winter cocktail and just look up. There are some really neat apps out there that help you identify the constellations. Or, if you both know them, make a game of who can find the most or the quickest. If sitting outside isn’t in the cards, you might check out a local planetarium (if you have one) where you can spend the evening.

6. Have a Day (or Night) at the Museum There are so many museums these days for kids and adults alike. But if you have kids, how often do you visit without them? It’s funny to think of going to a kids’ museum or a history museum in the evening without kids, but believe me, there’s a lot of fun to be had! Experience things without your kids pulling on you, or, if you don’t have kids, pick a place you might not have visited before.

Sometimes there are even special evening events.

Have a happy Valentine’s Day! 48 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

STOP IN FOR GREAT FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS! Open 7 days a week.

Kitchen hours 10am to 10pm Bar closes 3am

FREE Bottle of Champagne for Each Dinner Table!

Walk-ins Welcome / Reservations Recommended.

LIVE DJ WEDNESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY Like us on Facebook to see updated daily lunch specials & special events.

COME ENJOY OUR SUPERBOWL PARTY HERE WITH FREE FOOD

574.806.0887 | 60 E. Washington • Knox

/thelakesmagazine

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 49

Mullets Fencing

CALL ANYTIME

574.936.4622

& Supplies + Feed Store Family owned & operated since 1986

1

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• Feed for Dogs • Cats • Cows & Horses • ADM & Purina Tribute brands

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• All Types of Fencing Available • Installation & Repairs • Post Pounder for Rent • Commercial & Residential Chainlink

Jerad (574)536-5418 • David (574)354-0803 6223 8th Road | Plymouth

Custom-Built Cabinets & Furniture “There is No Simple Solutions... Only Intelligent Choices”

Kitchen Cabinets Bedroom Suites • China Hutches Bathroom Vanities • Curios & Custom Built Furniture 65438 SR 13 | Millersburg Ph. 574-642-9940 Fax 574-642-3602 50 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Culligan Water Owner Talks Serving Local Rochester Community Writer / Mary Lowry Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Owners Grant & Sara Downs with their children Lucy & Micah. thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 51

Culligan Water of Rochester has proudly served Fulton County since it opened in 1959, and the Downs family has operated it with an emphasis on community since they took it over in 1978. Grant Downs runs it today, and he represents the third generation of Downs men to do so.

“In 1978 Jim Downs II [became owner],” says Grant, who became owner in June of 2019. “My dad, Jim Downs III, took over around 2000-2001. He passed in 2014. It was run by a non-family member for the last five years but overseen by family members.”

While Grant co-owns Culligan Water with his grandfather and his brother, Grant runs the office on a daily basis. He took over in order to stay involved in the local community. Driving an hour and a half to Fort Wayne for work every day started to wear on him, and coming to work in Rochester at his family’s business was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

“It was an opportunity to get involved in the community, run the family business and be around more - really just carry and continue on the Downs family name in the business,” Grant says.

And Grant certainly has gotten involved in the community. Culligan Water has a local community fund for a scholarship in his father’s

1657 3rd st Bremen • (574) 209-1312 52 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

name. Additionally, the company sponsors a little league baseball team and a youth softball team. Culligan focuses on youth sports, donating water to different local teams and supporting various high school teams. Grant gives back to the community himself by coaching his daughter’s softball team. He also serves as the administrator for Moose Lodge #1107 in Rochester.

“Since I’m here we’re able to give a lot more back,” Grant says.

Culligan employees also serve the community through their work.

They sell and rent out water softeners, water filters and drinking water systems. The company delivers salt and water across the county, and services many makes and models of softeners, filters and drinking water systems. Often in rural areas water can be considered hard, or full of minerals - particularly iron. By using water softeners and filtration systems water can be cleaned, making it healthier.

“Some people have wells that smell like rotten eggs, and we can clean that up for you,” Grant explains. “We can provide filtered water in bottles or gallons, or under-the-sink filtration units that can give you good, clean water out of the faucet.”

Visit Culligan Water at 129 East 5th Street in Rochester.

Call 574-223-2420 or go to culligan.com for more information.

Grant Downs Sales / Service

Culligan Water Conditioning 129 E. 5th Street (574) 223-2420 (888) 294-5541

• Boat Lift Covers

Rochester, IN 46975 Fax: (574) 223-2007 culliganfultoncounty.com

DELIVERY AVAILABLE TO ALL ADDRESSES IN CULVER

• Over Head Door Screens • Boat Canopies • Trampolines • Tarps • Fire pit Covers • & Anything Custom

61380 CR 43 • Goshen, IN 46528 Ph: 574-825-5878 • Fax: 574-747-7269

Catering • Full Bar Homemade Salsa Authentic Mexican Cuisine

18571 STATE ROAD 10 • 574-842-2414

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 53

Owner Angela Maroules

54 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Legacy Salon & Spa Culver Salon Offers Diverse Range of Services At New Location Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

For Angela Maroules, owner of Legacy Salon & Spa, 2019 ended on an extremely high note, and the new year looks very bright. On December 5 Maroules was named Business Person of the Year at the Culver Chamber of Commerce Annual Members Awards dinner. Cited for her achievements, dedication, and passion to business and community, Maroules is also in the process of expanding her salon after moving to a much larger location.

“I was actually quite surprised about receiving the award,” Maroules says. “My customers and I are beyond excited about the larger new location of Legacy Salon & Spa.” Maroules is originally from Wisconsin where she grew up on a dairy farm. One of her good friends was a hairdresser and influenced her to enter the field. While Maroules trained to become a hairstylist she also earned her business degree from the University of Wisconsin. She later married, moved to Indiana and settled in the Culver area.

“I have 20 years of experience as a hairstylist,” Maroules says. “Two years ago I purchased Michelle’s Headquarters on North Main Street and renamed it Legacy Salon & Spa. Recently, I got the opportunity to purchase the building a 218 South Main Street. I went from 300 square feet to 2,000 square feet. The new location has more space and many rooms, so there can be more services offered.”

Now closer to Culver’s retail district, Legacy Salon & Spa is across the street thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 55

from The Culver Cottage, a bed-andbreakfast establishment. The staff includes aestheticians with a variety of specialties.

The salon is expanding its services to include microblading. It continues to offer haircuts for men, women and children, as well as hair coloring, perms, facial waxing, ear piercing, manicures, pedicures, airbrush custom tanning, blow-outs and much more.

“Having the location in Culver’s retail area means better business for everyone,” Maroules says. “With more space we can offer more services. A massage business, Renew Massage and Wellness, is located in the back of the building. There is also a three-bedroom apartment upstairs that can be rented.”

Recently, the salon reached out to its customers in order to help an area family that had suffered a house fire.

Working with the Culver Boys and Girls Club, Legacy Salon & Spa asked the community for help. Clothing donations,

as well as gift cards for groceries and fuel, were given to the family, which includes six children.

& Spa online at legacysalon.online or call 574-842-2662.

“Any hairstylist will tell you that their clients are their family,” Maroules says.

“I like this area so much. For my four children, the Culver school system has been wonderful and we moved here for it.

People wonder if I will ever move back to Wisconsin, but I am here to stay.”

NOR THER N TR ADER S

 2801 North Old US Hwy 31 Rochester, IN  (574) 223-5248

For more information, visit Legacy Salon

Renew massage & wellness 218 Main St. Culver, IN 219.680.6362

Member yearly sign up fee $55 Monthly Discount Services:

60 Minute Session for $75 90 Minute Session $115

30 Minute Session............................................... $45 60 Minute Session............................................... $95 90 Minute Session.............................................. $135 Pregnancy Session.......................................$45/$85 Cupping Treatment.....................................$85/$125 Stretching pre/post..............................................$45 Drybrushing.........................................................$75 Table Thai............................................................$75 LomiLomi...........................................................$100 Bamboo..............................................................$120 Body Wraps........................................................$120 Lymphatic Wrap................................................$160

By Appointment Only

Offers Expire March 31, 2020

Gina Bachmeier, LMT: 219-680-6362 Rachael Surfus, LMT: 574-933-1636 Angie Holstein C.M.T: 574-780-2535

56 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Living Room • Dining Room Mattresses • Accents • Office • & More!

Open Mon- Fri 10am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm 231 Apache Dr. • Rochester

(574)223-7632

www.townehomefurnishings.com

Enjoy many of the great benefits of health and wellness by becoming a member today. Your membership will give you access to our incredible facilities and many other fantastic advantages.

Here are some you will enjoy:

Call today Free Estimates

Spiders Have Nowhere to Hide

574-223-8900 Jason Grube

Environmentally Friendly Application

All Group Exercise Classes (over 90 per week), AQ Excercise, Member Orientation, 25 Yard Lap Pool, Free Fitness Assessment, 1/7 Mile Walk/Run Indoor Track, Racquetball Courts, Gymnasium, Free Exercise Prescription, Equipment Orientation, Cardiovascular Equipment, TechnoGym Strength Training Equipment, Nautilus Strength Training Equipment, Two Free-Weight Lifting Areas, Punching Bag, Rock Wall, Community Outreach Education, Warm Water Therapy Pool, Steam Room, Dry Sauna, and Hot Tub. Call us today to get your membership started.

Hours of Operation

Monday - Thursday: 5:00am - 9:00pm | Friday: 5:00am - 8:00pm Saturday: 6:00am - 3:00pm | Sunday: Closed

2855 Miller Drive, Suite 101 | Plymouth Ph.574-936-2333 • Fx. 574-941-1074 www.fitnessforum.biz

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 57

When it comes to your to-do list, put your future first.

To find out how to get your financial goals on track, contact your Edward Jones financial advisor today.

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE LOCAL CONTRACTOR?

MYERS SERVICES

CULVER EVENTS 2/1, 2/15, 2/29

Saturdays 9AM - 1PM @ The Library

574-249-0970

Myers Services is a 2nd generation construction company owned by Culver graduate Ben Myers.

We offer home remodeling, windows, decks, flooring, tile work, light excavation, concrete, sidewalks, driveways, and foundations.

Owner Ben Myers, MyersServiceLLC@gmail.com 20250 W 19 B Rd Culver, IN 46511

FEBRUARY

2/4: POTTED POTTER @ CULVER ACADEMIES 2/14-2/16: VALENTINE’S DAY GETAWAY CULVER WINTERFEST & ICE FIGHTS FEB 7-8-9 Ice Fights | 6th Annual Polar Plunge

2/8: CUPID’S CRAWL SHOPPING EVENT OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR

(574) 842-5253 CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP www.culverchamber.com culverindianachamber 58 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Owners Whitney Alvis and Danielle Mavrick

The Collective at 120 South Main Retail Concept Supports Local Businesses Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 59

B

usiness partners Danielle Mavrick and Whitney Alvis launched their retail concept, The Collective at 120 South Main, in Culver last December - and both were rather surprised when the concept went live.

“Neither one of us are shoppers,” Alvis says. “I never thought I would own retail because I don’t particularly like to shop.”

When three downtown Culver businesses gave notice for closing in 2019, many area business owners grew concerned.

“The Main Street area is not that big,” says Alvis, an Oklahoma native.

“You can’t have three people leave at once.”

Last August representatives from the Culver Visitor Center and Main Street Group met to discuss the state of local retail. It quickly became apparent that Mavrick, who is heavily involved with many local organizations, and Alvis were thinking similarly.

“We met for coffee the next morning,” Alvis says. “We left that saying, ‘Okay, maybe we can do this.’”

The duo’s business concept is incredibly innovative - a space aimed at building up the community by supporting local, professional creatives. Specifically, they want to enable small business owners to share space, overhead and employees. Fortunately, Alvis owns an empty downtown building. It is perfect for their needs, with plenty of space to accommodate dozens of creatives and their products.

“We both just knew that this was something that Culver needed,” Mavrick says. “We just decided to take a really big chance.”

By December several professional creatives signed on including Diva, Gemelo Woodworks, LLC, Cecilia Designs Jewelry, and several other artists and artisans. Some tenants sell nationally recognized, eco-friendly clothes, accessories, books and learning toys. Local food products are also available, including sweets from a chocolatier and a variety of foods by Healthy Bites Kitchen.

“The collaborative effort lets everybody do the part that they love and that they’re good at,” Alvis says.

“So everybody wins because we’re all doing what we enjoy.”

As the storefront manager, Mavrick has developed a deep appreciation for the tenants, and makes an effort explain the background of products to customers.

“I find that connection with small business owners makes me want to support them, and I think it would make others want to support someone,” Mavrick says.

Within the next year Mavrick and Alvis are planning to expand their business to include an online store, and they’d like to host workshops and art classes. They are also hoping to expand their business into other communities.

“We have some targeted towns in mind,” Alvis says. “So many of these small towns’ downtown areas are dying off because of big-box retail.

Every community has people who are really good at whatever their thing is, and trying to make a living. So we hope that this can be duplicated.”

The Collective is located at 120 South Main in Culver. For more info visit 120southmain.com. Those interested in getting involved can email Danielle Mavrick at danielle@120southmain. com, and Whitney Alvis at whitney@120southmain.com.

Medical and Surgical Group

New Name Same Great Care Integrity Medical Center is now Pulaski Memorial Hospital Medical and Surgical Group Knox Medical Clinic.

Majed Al-Hamwi, MD

Cynthia Oezer, AGNP

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Walk-ins Welcome To schedule an appointment, please call (574) 207-5050.

Medical and Surgical Group Knox Clinic 2 S. Pearl St., Knox, IN 46534 • (574) 207-5050 • www.pmhnet.com thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 61

I N F E B R U A R Y AT T H E L A K E S KOONTZ LAKE

BASS LAKE

1

1

4pm CST - Fish Fry at the Grovertown Community Clubhouse. Dine in AYCE and carry out available. Adults $9, Kids $5.

9am Bass Lake Property Owners will be having their first meeting of 2020.

BASS LAKE PROPERTY OWNERS MEETING

FISH FRY

11

C U LV E R

KOONTZ LAKE BOARD MEETING 6:30pm CDT - This is open to the public, and they are accepting new board members.

22

EUCHRE NIGHT 7:30pm CDT- At the Koontz Lake Association clubhouse. Must be 21 or older. To register, email Angie at Monahan.kag@gmail.com KOONTZ LAKE BINGO Every Monday night at the Koontz Lake Clubhouse 10870 Cherokee Road, Walkerton, IN. Doors open at 5pm CDT, early bird beings at 6pm, and regular bingo beings at 6:30.

KOONTZ LAKE CRAFT CLASS Craft class every Friday afternoon 12-2 CDT at the Koontz Lake Library. The crafts range from painting to crochet and knitting. Come get some new ideas and meet new people. The library will display different local artist work every month. Library hours are M,W,F 9-5 CDT and Saturday 8-12. Phone number 574-586-3353.

KOONTZ LAKE CLUBHOUSE Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! $50.00 rental fee with refundable cleaning fee. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.

ADULT WINTER READING PROGRAM Culver Union Township Library will be having their Adult Winter Reading Program all month. Contact the Library for more information. 574-842-2941

4 7-9

POTTED POTTER AT THE CULVER ACADEMIES

CULVER WINTERFEST February 7th 5pm- 9th 3pm EST – Culver Winterfest with ice fights, sledding hill, and much more! Check out their Facebook page, Culver Winterfest for more information.

8

ANNUAL CUPID’S CRAWL SHOPPING EVENT 3p – 8p EST - Have a chance to win a $300 gift certificate basket!

14-16

VALENTINE’S DAY GETAWAY WEEKEND

KOONTZ LAKE ASSOCIATION Last Saturday Concerts” and Pickleball will both resume in April 62 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Knox - Winamac Community Health Center Caring for your healthcare needs since 2007

Knox-Winamac Community Health Center is a private non-profit agency providing affordable high-quality, primary care to residents of Starke and Pulaski Counties.

Walter Fritz, MD

Lori Truesdell, LCSW

We accept Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurances. We have a Sliding Fee Scale available to qualified individuals which can significantly reduce the cost of your office visit.

Services Available Primary and Preventive care • Physical Examinations Employment • Sports • School Physicals Well Child Checks • Immunizations • Chronic Disease Mangagement Laboratory Service • Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings Management Women’s Health Screenings and Annual Exams • Behavioral Healthcare

Elizabeth Moerman, MSN, APRN, FNP

Tracy Haddix, NP

Open Monday thru Friday and every Saturday until noon

Kim McCullough, NP

1002 S. Edgwood Drive Knox, IN 46534 | 574-772-6030

MAGAZINE If you are not in our designated monthly mailing route you can find a few thousand paper copies of the Lakes Magazine spread over 100+ area businesses throughout the following region: Argos, Bass Lake, Bremen, Culver, Delong, Donaldson, Hamlet, Koontz Lake, Knox, Monterey, Nappanee, North Judson, Plymouth, Rochester, Walkerton & Winamac

DID YOU MISS AN ISSUE OR WANT TO READ THE LAKES MAGAZINE ON THE GO? Download our free FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES App on your digital CONTACT PUBLISHER JOHN LEWANDOWSKI device. Go to The Lakes Magazine on Google Play (574)249-9217 or The App JOHN@TOWNEPOST.COM Store. thelakesmagazine.com / FEBRUARY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 63

Friday MARCH 20TH, 12 to 6pm | Saturday March 21ST, 10am to 6pm | Sunday March 22ND, 12 to 6pm

514 W. Mill St. Culver, IN 46511 • 574-842-5000 www.culversportsidemarina.com 64 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com