The Lakes Magazine May 2020

MAY 2020

MAGAZINE

TheLakesMagazine.com

Midwest Farm & Pet, LLC Do you want a Golf Course Quality looking yard?

Get the Residential. 4 Step Program Here.

POND CHEMICALS IN STOCK

GREAT LOW PRICES ON WATER SOFTENER SALT

(574) 646-2509 | 535 5B Rd.• Bremen, IN 46506

WE HAVE ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS COVERED!

• Vegetable Seeds & Plants • Annuals & Perennials • Landscape Materials • Fertilizers • Bagged Soil & Mulch • Bulk Mulch & River Rock • Pea Gravel & Play Sand

Don’t forget a gift for Mom for Mothers Day!

574-946-0998 • healeyshomecenter.com • 800 N US 35, Winamac, IN 2 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

# 1 LAKE LISTING & SELLING AGENT.

Miller custom plastics,llc

20757 N LAKE DRIVE, WALKERTON IN

$332,900

• Poly Trim • Plastic Cabinets • Plastic Welding • Plastic Mailbox Signs • Plastic Business Signs

Check out this fully furnished 3 bed, 2 bath home on Koontz Lake with 75 foot of frontage! Breath taking views on the large deck.

Move right in to this home!

12 Colors to choose from plus wood grain plastic options.

Rhonda S. Hurford Broker

(574) 250-1835 rhondahurford@gmail.com www.collinshomes.com

New 8 Foot Pull-out Table.

Great for Outdoor Kitchens & High Moisture areas.

Will Not Rot or mold, Easy to Clean.

Merle & Dorlda Miller 27012 CR 50, Nappanee, IN 46550 574- 773- 0569

Contractor Supply Shop

WHOLE INTERIOR HOUSE PACKAGES HUGE VARIETY OF HARDWOOD FLOORING MOLDING • TRIM • INTERIOR DOORS

All manufacturing and Finishing done In-House *Better Quote Contractors

574-773-9442 • 106 3B RD | NAPPANEE

Our Furniture Warehouse Show Room

We carry top Furniture brands at factory direct pricing. Come enjoy our pressure free shopping experience and find that perfect piece! We are always getting new shipments of furniture in our stock and showrooms.

• Rugs • Carpet • Laminate

• Vinyl • Hardwood • Showers

• Ceramic • Warehouse Specials Buyer & Distributor close outs & surpluses of general merchandise. Wholesale & Retail Sales.

You will find a huge selection of Lawn art plus many in store unique finds.

(574) 935-5656

www.prattsfloorcovering.com

Don’t forget to visit the Toto Cafe

303 N. Oak Dr. Plymouth IN. 46563

www.richardsoftoto.com • (574)772-5923 RichardsOfToto@hotmail.com 3060 S. Range Road North Judson

Mon & Wed-Fri 9am to 5pm Sat & Sun 9am to 5:30pm Closed Tuesdays

Looking for a Reliable Contractor?

Specializing In: • New Construction • Kitchen Remodeling • Bathroom Remodeling • Whole House Remodeling • Pole Barns

574-216-6407

Tom Krueger Construction and Handyman 4 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. THE LAKES MAGAZINE

18

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 TEAM Austin Vance Valerie Randall Catherine Shea

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT Josh Brown

Josh@TownePost.com

MAY WRITERS

MADE IN THE SHADE: SHADE MASTER WINDOW TINT OFFERS HIGH-QUALITY AUTOMOTIVE, COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Marshall Clevenger at Shade Master Window Tint in Plymouth is exactly like his business’ name proclaims – he is a master when it comes to window tinting. Since 1996, Clevenger has worked in the window tinting business.

7

Hands On: RENEW Massage and Wellness Offers Mind and Body Rejuvenation

11 Full Bloom: Country

Rodes Greenhouse Nears 20th Anniversary

18 Made In the Shade: Shade Master

Window Tint Offers High-Quality Automotive, Commercial & Residential Services

34 Show Mom How Much You

Appreciate Her This Mother’s Day

41 The Flagpole: Long-Time Rochester

Ice Cream Shop Is Flourishing Under New Ownership

44 Manitou Realty & Auction:

Owner Talks More Than 25 Years of Success

48 Driven to Succeed: Fred Allen Auto

Center Celebrates Three Decades of Service

Farm Log Homes Invites Guests to Embrace Simplicity

Angela Cornell / Tracey Ruckman Mary Lowry / Abigail Hake Christy Heitger-Ewing / Julie Yates

MAY PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jubilee Edgell / Lana King

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/Text: 317-810-0011

23 Crossword Puzzle 28 Hiatt’s Landscaping: Owner Talks 51 The Charm of the Farm: Hesters

Services and Longevity

thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 5

TheLakesMagazine.com TownePost.com

Plymouth Family Dental Care James Ryan, D.D.S. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

CULVER

Dental Care with a Gentle Touch

OVER 150 CRAFT BEERS THE BEST WINE SELECTION IN THE AREA FULL SERVICE DELI HOT FOOD TO GO MEAT BUNDLE DEALS FRESH CUT MEATS

(574) 842-2450 1105 N LAKE SHORE DR | CULVER

(574) 936-8787 1409 N Michigan St • Plymouth Plymouth Family Dental Care

We are the longest Running Diamond Hustler dealer in Northern Indiana.

P.J. Gilsinger & Co.

Stop in for the best overall deal and experience.

Sales and repair of zero turn & push mowers, tractors, trimmers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, pressure washers, blades, parts, pole saws, snowblowers, tillers & more.

A Place to Visit!

5 YEAR WARRANTY

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:

May-October Thursday, Friday & Sundays 1:00pm to 6:00pm

(574)546-4413

1319 Plymouth-Goshen Trail | Bremen 6 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

November-April Sunday’s 1:00-6:00pm

Contact Brenda Gilsinger for Inquiries or Appointments (574)595-7851 5641 S. Main St. Winamac, Indiana

Owner Gina Bachmeier

RENEW Massage and Wellness Offers Mind and Body Rejuvenation Writer / Tracey Ruckman Photographer / Lana King

The staff at RENEW Massage and Wellness, a new business in Culver, is dedicated to restoring health and well-being through the power of touch.

Gina Bachmeier, shop owner and licensed massage therapist, has been helping her clients achieve wellness for 17 years. Her massage specialty areas include athlete recovery, bamboo therapy and cupping.

Bachmeier’s path to the massage industry began while she was recovering from an injury. Massage therapy was included as part of her rehabilitation, and she soon realized she wanted to use it to help others heal.

“The idea for RENEW came from a loving and inspirational colleague, and best friend,” Bachmeier says. “Culver is a halfway point between where I live in Knox and where she lived in Rochester. It was a dream of ours to open a place together. Since April’s unexpected passing, I felt I owed it to her to continue on with our dream.”

She had previously studied kinesiology and anatomy at Ball State, and learning massage became an easy transition.

RENEW offers a wide array of services to suit a large variety of client needs. Massage can be a helpful tool for many age groups and health conditions.

Bachmeier opened the doors to RENEW in mid-January. In addition to Bachmeier, Rachael Surfus and Tammy Shaffer also offer massage services at the shop.

“The community has welcomed us with open arms,” Bachmeier says. “I believe they love having us here.”

“Without them here, RENEW wouldn’t be able to accommodate all of our clients’ needs,” Bachmeier says of her colleagues.

Surfus specializes in medical massage and cupping, and has worked as a therapist for seven years. Shaffer specializes in relaxation massage and active isolated stretching, and has been a therapist for 21 years. thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 7

Specialty services at RENEW include young athlete sessions, pregnancy sessions for the expectant mother, lymphatic and body wraps, bamboo, lomi lomi, table Thai, dry brushing, stretching and cupping.

By targeting specific, problematic areas of the body, massage can eliminate tension, relieve stress and pain, increase blood flow and flexibility, reduce blood pressure, boost

the immune system, and relax both the body and mind.

“It helps reset the body, eliminate old issues, uncover new problematic issues and remove the client’s life stressors,” Bachmeier says.

Bamboo therapy incorporates heated bamboo stalks of varying lengths and thicknesses, to provide deep tissue massage. It promotes lymphatic drainage, increases circulation, and creates an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.

It is currently the most popular service at RENEW. Lomi Lomi is a Hawaiian style of massage.

Lomi means to knead, rub and soothe. It’s a spiritual style of therapy that connects the body, mind and spirit.

Dry Brushing is a technique that incorporates a bristled brush for use on skin in a specific pattern. It helps

“FULTON COUNTY’S COMPLETE DECORATING CENTER”

Top Quality • Real Compassion Personal Attention • Exceptional Service

Welcome to our House!

CUSTOM WALK-IN TILE SHOWERS HARDWOOD FLOORS L.V.P. CARPET HUNTER DOUGLAS BLINDS

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

401 E 9TH ST | ROCHESTER HOUSEOFDECOR401.COM (574) 223-2730 8 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

the body’s detoxification process by improving blood circulation. It also exfoliates the skin and promotes lymph drainage.

Cupping therapy involves special cups that create suction on the skin. It can loosen tight muscles, relieve pain and inflammation, promote relaxation and increase blood flow.

RENEW also offers wraps that are both pampering and effective for health ailments. The lymphatic wrap encourages the movement of lymph fluid in the body, and can be helpful with detoxification and excess water gain caused by a sluggish lymph system. The seaweed wrap offered at RENEW removes dead skin while infusing hydration. It also helps to eliminate toxins, improves skin elasticity and improves body contouring.

OPENING SOON! 3000 E. Shore Dr. Culver Located inside the Culver Marina

The RENEW Himalayan Salt Room infuses over 80 healing minerals to help clients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, skin conditions, arthritis and lingering coughs. This service is offered privately for 30 or 60 minutes at a time.

“There’s nothing more rewarding then helping ease someone’s discomfort through human touch,” Bachmeier says.

“I have visited oncology departments offering massage to patients and their caregivers. It sits very dear to my heart.”

RENEW Massage and Wellness is located at 218 South Main Street in Culver. The staff operates on an appointment-only basis, Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment at RENEW, call or text 219-680-6362.

(574) 201-9751 1305 Ewing Road | Rochester thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 9

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

Dinner every Tuesday & Friday 5pm to 8pm

Try the Manitou Monster Pizza!

FRESH CUT MEATS

Open year round with fun parties and events for holidays and football season

Local Family Owned & Operated Store

www.savealot.com • (574)224-3434 2318 E State Rd 14 • Rochester

Check out the dinner specials on our facebook page.

(574)223-3914

Monday-Saturday 8 AM - 8 PM • Sunday 9 AM-7 PM

1911 Westside Rd. | Rochester

Grab the fun by the bars The water’s your playground

Supercharged 1,498cc Engine Deep-V Hull Design Premium Comfort & Convenience

574-842-5000

514-W. Mill St. Culver, IN www.culversportsidemarina.com

It is our expressed goal to provide Land Surveying and Civil Engineering services throughout the State of Indiana

Celebrating 95 Years!

(574) 586-3448 | teeng@te-llc.com 7908 N State HWY 23 Walkerton, IN

(574) 936-2323 www.plychamber.org 120 N Michigan St • Plymouth

Connect • Community • Business • Growth Join the Chamber Today!

10 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Owners Owners Roberta and Lynn Rodes

Country Rodes Greenhouse Nears 20th Anniversary Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Lana King

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

or many people, going to Country Rodes Greenhouse for plants to start their yearly garden and beautify their home is a tradition.

Known for its huge variety of stunningly beautiful healthy plants, it offers everything needed for the home gardener and professional landscaper from early spring to late autumn. Owners Lynn and Roberta Rodes realize how much it means to their customers to get the plants they need, so they have a plan to accommodate people who don’t wish to leave their cars.

“I want it to be safe for people,” Rodes says. “Customers have been calling in with a list of vegetable and flower plants they want. We take their credit card over the phone. Then we put the plants on a cart, push it outside, and if people want, we will load the plants in their car for them.”

This year marks the 10th season that Lynn and Roberta Rhodes have owned the business and the 18th year it has existed. The couple married in 2009 and moved to Rochester. Initially Lynn was employed in construction and Roberta worked at a nearby hospital.

Tom Langdon The areas best Gunsmith is here doing Cerakote, Gun Customization & Repairs.

GIFTS • HARDWARE • FISHING GEAR • FIREARMS AMMUNITION • SALES • GUNSMITHING

“Roberta grew up in Elkhart,” Rodes says. “Her parents own a plant nursery there, Ron Martin Seed & Supply. So, Roberta had a lot of experience working with her parents in greenhouses. We were just married a year when we approached the prior owners here about buying this business. We told them, ‘If you ever want to sell, let us know.’ A short time later they contacted us and said they did want to sell it to us.

574.935.3511 • 574.540.2268 1920 N. Oak Dr. • Plymouth

“It was all new to me. I enjoyed the plants and gardening but had to learn how everything is done through a series of trial and error. Even though it’s a seasonal business it keeps us busy all year. In the winter we go to garden shows, order supplies and there is a lot of maintenance. In the warm weather it is a huge responsibility to keep everything watered.”

12 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Country Rodes Greenhouse opens each year on April 1 and continues selling until late October. It consists of six growing greenhouses which produce thousands of bedding plants, vegetable plants, outdoor trees, shrubs, roses and countless perennials.

As an independent garden center, it grows all the plants it sells. Some are started from plugs which are placed in flats. Since it is not affiliated with a big box chain store, once a product sells out, it can’t be “reordered” for a customer.

All hanging baskets and floral containers are assembled on site. When visitors stroll through the expansive green houses or visit the business Facebook page, they see row after row of lush and beautiful vegetation. There are brightly colored begonia baskets filled with softly glowing orange or cheerful yellow blossoms. The containers are unique

COUNTRY RODES GREENHOUSE

Mother’s Day Celebration

Garden Seeds • Bedding Plants Over 30 Different Varieties Of Tomatoes Onion Sets • Potatoes • Vegetable Plants • Asparagus Strawberry Plants Over 2,000 Potted Perennials Fertilome Large Variety Of Hanging Baskets Products Planters

Sold Here

574.223.3751 | 5962 N. OLD U.S. 31 ROCHESTER, IN

Located 6 Miles North of Rochester or 7 Miles South of Argos on Old U.S. 31 thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 13

and some resemble copper or galvanized steel while others are wicker baskets. One highlight is various containers of different caladium varieties which are paired with ivy. These are easy plants that provide a splash of color to beautify any home or business.

Within the season Country Rodes Greenhouse is open, there are different demands each month. In April, people are eager to start their vegetable gardens.

Cold weather crop plants such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and bare root varieties such as asparagus and strawberries are available. Many customers purchase seed packets and potato and onion sets.

During May, the requests are for Mother’s Day type items such as hanging baskets and containers. Bedding plants are also in demand. Lawn and garden fertilizers and pesticides are offered. Many of the products are natural and organic.

In the summer, customers will find everything needed to make a garden healthy and beautiful. During this time, a large supply of perennials is ready for sale. The store carries potting soil, empty planters, containers, pottery and other supplies. A few garden ornaments such as gazing balls are also available.

September focuses on landscaping needs.

Fall is the best season for planting trees, shrubs and bushes. Chrysanthemums are in their full glory with multiple color and variety options to choose from.

The season winds up in late October.

Families enjoy coming out to pick out pumpkins. Other decorative items available are bails of straw and autumn gourds suitable for centerpieces or wreaths.

“Our customers come back year after year,” Rodes says. “We love seeing them and we always enjoy meeting new ones as well.

People really want to be able to get the plants and supplies they need to start and maintain their garden. We want to make sure they can get them, so we encourage them to give us a call.”

Country Rodes Greenhouse is located at 5962 North Old US 31 in Rochester, just off East Country Road 550 North.

Visit their Facebook page Country Rodes Greenhouse or call 574-238-7669 for more information.

57

A F F O R DA B L E www.insura I N S U R A N CE , I N C.

1512 South Heaton St K

 1512 S Heaton St Knox, IN 46534  (574) 772-5370

CALL ANYTIME

574.936.4622

1

#

Voted

• Cold Storage • Climate Controlled • Outside Storage • Surveillance Secured

BEST Choose from Over 1000 different frame options!

Let us help you frame your memories...

of Marshall County 2018 / 2019

1980 W. Jefferson St.

813 N. Oak Drive

2405 1/2 N. Michigan St.

MARK’S BODY SHOP marksbodyshop@centurylink.net

12 S. Prettyman Knox, IN 46534 Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 Sat 8-Noon Mark Shell 14 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

ision Rep Coll air

574-772-7003 Fax 574-772-7004

W tom us C •

ork • Insura nce Wo rk

Bakery Collection!

Woodland Variety Store 4133 E County Line Rd. Bremen • 574-773-0303 Mon-Fri. 8a - 6p • Sat. 8a - 3p • Closed Sunday

574-842-5000

514-W. Mill St. Culver, IN www.culversportsidemarina.com

• Fresh Produce • Bulk Food • Deli Meats • Bakery Items

CUStom Hardscapes

BY Scherf’s Call For Free Estimates

Patios • Retaining Walls Walkways • and more

574-298-1734

look us up online: lawnserviceknox.com thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 15

• Large Cheese Selection • Frozen Foods • Dairy Products

• Discount Items

• Paper Products • Bulk Candy

Open Year Round Boarding

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

Training Horseback Riding Horse Sales/Trade Badge Programs Scouts 4 H Training Church/Youth Groups

(574) 643-9395 7187 W County Road 250 N Royal Center | IN www.crookedcreekhorsebackriding.com

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

(574)223-7632

www.townehomefurnishings.com

Just call...

Proudly owned & operated by Tom & Carolyn Blackburn.

• Home Maintenance & Repairs • Remodeling & Additions • Windows & Siding • Electrical & Generators • Painting • Lawn Services • Gas & Water Lines • Furnace & A/C Repairs & Installation • Water Heater Repair & Installation

640 E. Lake Shore Drive Culver, In 46511 (574) 842-3228

info@BennettsContracting.net Serving the Culver area since 1965

Sat & Sun Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Buffet, Catering, Meeting / Banquet Room for up to 74 people Open Mon - Thur 11am to 9:00pm, Friday 11am - 10:00pm, Saturday 8am to 10:00pm, Sunday 8am to 9:00pm

(574)936-4128 | 2100 N. Michigan st. • Plymouth

16 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Come See Our Shed Selection

Call About Our Display Discounts on Playsets Don’t forget about these other great departments Pumpkin Patch offers!

Bedroom | Living Room | Dining Room | Outdoor

10532 US 20, Middlebury, Indiana 46540 574-825-3312 www.pumpkinpatchmarket.com thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 17

Owner Marshall Clevenger

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Made In the Shade Shade Master Window Tint Offers High-Quality Automotive, Commercial & Residential Services originally because it was a job and he got to work on cars, but it turned into something much more than that. A few Marshall Clevenger at Shade Master years later, he ended up working for a Window Tint in Plymouth is exactly commercial window tint company in like his business’ name proclaims – he Indianapolis, doing residential window is a master when it comes to window tinting. After that endeavor, he packed tinting. Since 1996, Clevenger has his bags and headed to New York, worked in the window tinting business. where he got married. A couple of years after that, he and his wife moved He got his first job in window tinting back to the area, settling in Plymouth. at 16, where he discovered he really He decided to open his own window enjoyed the job. He got into it tinting business in Bourbon in 2001.

Writer / Mary Lowry Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

MARINE • RESIDENTIAL • AUTOMOTIVE • COMMERCIAL

4 LOCATIONS Plymouth Warsaw Rochester North Manchester

574-780-2301

ShadeMasterWindowTint.com THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

“I think it’s important to know that we are just completely local.

I try to hire people that live in the area.

We have guys in Winamac, Plymouth, Knoxville. We really try to be a part of the community the best we can.”

- Marshall Clevenger

CUSTOM HOME AND OFFICE BARNWOOD FURNITURE

After 13 years at that location, Shade Master Window Tint moved to its current location in Plymouth. “[Window tinting] is a skill set that I had,” Clevenger says. “When I moved up here, my wife is a dental hygienist, and no one was really doing window tint in the area.

It’s a small market, but I thought I’d give it a shot.”

For the first 10 years of the business, Clevenger worked alone. It made him happy, but when he found himself turning down more and more work opportunities, he realized that it was time to expand the business. He was able to call on some people he thought would be good for the job, and he started the team soon after, beginning training for his new employees.

“It takes eight to nine months to train someone before I turn them loose,” he says.

“They don’t become a master installer for three to four years. It takes a long time to train people.”

CONTACT US! (574)933-3805

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

Today, he employs two other master installers, and he has one basic installer.

With additional employees, Shade Master Window Tint was able to expand and serve a larger area geographically. Today, they do work as far south as Knoxville, Tennessee, where they recently opened a branch of their business. Otherwise, they serve from Indianapolis to as far west as Chicago and as

far north as Michigan.

Not only is their service range impressive, but the services Clevenger and his team offer are sure to impress. In a rare combination, Shade Master Window Tint offers automotive, commercial and residential window tint.

“It makes a more efficient home or workspace,” Clevenger says. “People here have a beautiful view of the lake, but they have to close their blinds because of the heat. The product that we put on makes it so they don’t have to do that.”

The commercial window films that they can apply can stop 85% of the heat that comes through the windows. By stopping all that excess heat, people can enjoy their view of the lake in a much cooler environment.

With their automotive window tint, people can reduce UV light in their headlights and taillights by 100%. It also prevents scratches

LEAVE YOUR ELECTRIC BILL BEHIND! SINCE 2006!

Residential • Commercial • Agricultural • RV

Call today Free Estimates

Spiders Have Nowhere to Hide

574-223-8900 Jason Grube

Environmentally Friendly Application

Ask about our lithium batteries!

OUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Solar Systems for Residential, Commercial & Agriculture Batteries Inverters & Inverter Service Center Excellent Customer Support!

574-773-0546 • sesindiana.com

8015 W 1350 N, Suite A Nappanee, IN 46550

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

and road debris damage. Their window tint products are all from brands made in the United States.

The team works to make sure that they serve the community in more ways than just the business. Each and every one of Clevenger’s employees give back through volunteer work or serving on a local board.

Clevenger himself serves on the Discover Plymouth board. He tries to emphasize how important the community is to him.

“I think it’s important to know that we are just completely local,” he says. “I try to hire people that live in the area. We have guys in Winamac, Plymouth, Knoxville. We really try to be a part of the community the best we can.”

Their goodwill came in especially helpful when Plymouth experienced a

flood in recent years. When they saw a need in the community, Clevenger did not hesitate in opening up their office spaces to help out.

“We turned our offices over to the community foundation for flood relief efforts, as well as [tried] to help alleviate some of the suffering in the area,” Clevenger says. “To me, that’s the least you can do.”

For more information about their other products, you can visit them online at shademasterwindowtint. com. There, you can book an appointment or check out estimates.

For photos of their recent work, you can visit them on Facebook by searching “Shade Master Window Tint.” You can also give them a call at 574-780-2301. The main shop is located at 108 N Michigan Street in Plymouth. They have additional locations in Rochester and North Manchester.

A QUILT OF QUALITY PRODUCTS FOR FARM AND HOME

• Boat Lift Covers • Over Head Door Screens • Boat Canopies • Trampolines • Tarps

WWW.MICHIANACATALOGSALES.COM OR REQUEST A PRINT CATALOG: (574)642-4768 INFO@MICHIANAEQUIPMENT.COM 12865-2 COUNTY ROAD 30 | MIDDLEBURY, IN 2019 FALL CATALOG

• Fire pit Covers • & Anything Custom

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

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

MAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. To the point 5. Expired 7. Large tooth 8. Questioner 9. Ogled, ... at 12. Referee’s device 15. Line of hereditary rulers 19. Burglaries 21. Financial 22. Stupor 23. Decoy 24. Makes stable

DOWN 1. Sweepstake 2. Enthusiastic 3. In front 4. Roofing grass 5. Floats on current 6. Ridicule 10. Uniform 11. Grain tips 12. Route 13. Skin irritation 14. Slight quarrel 15. Gloomy 16. For each one 17. Sums 18. Evaluate 19. Cooking herb 20. Terminated

Solutions

FOLLOW US!

Miller Hardwoods,llc Levi Miller, Owner

Since 1975

Cell: 574.305.0150 Office: 574.773.9371 Local resources | Retail & Wholesale Buyers of Standing Timber & Cut Logs Manufacturers of Landscape Mulch

Organic Dye Colored Mulch | Saw Mill Products Colors: Natural - Red - Brown - Black

8769 W. 1350 N., Nappanee, IN 46550

prompt & proffesional service

• Seamless Aluminum Gutters • Leaf Protection Products • 24 Color Options • Gutter Cleaning

574.354.7940 11499 N 1000 W | Nappanee Serving Marshall, Kosciusko, Elkhart Counties & Surrounding Areas

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Free Estimates

AREAS LARGEST SELECTION OF MELISSA & DOUG TOYS

The Next Generation of Home Builders www.rochesterhomesinc.com

574.224.7348

Rob Carlson, Your Local Builder FULL SERVICE PHARMACY • UNIQUE GIFTS MEDICAL EQUIPMENT • QUALITY CBD

574.223.2216 • 724 MAIN ST | ROCHESTER

rob@rochesterhomesbuilder.com 1345 N. Lucas Street P.O. Box 85 Rochester, Indiana 46975 /rochesterhomesinc

Locally & Family Owned

Great Variety of Bicycles including

Cannondale Bacchetta Marin KHS Tandem

& CONSTRUCTION, LLC SPECIALIZING IN HIGH QUALITY STEEL ROOFING Use card for info and inspiration keeping roofing related. Award winning the last 4 consecutive years!

Sales | Services | Accessories (574) 354-1632

AWARD WINNING THE LAST 4 CONSECUTIVE YEARS!

(574) 354-1533 | Mattpremierroofing@gmail.com

PREMIERROOFINGINDIANA.COM

www.tripleoaksales.com

7134 W 1300 North | Nappanee, IN 46550 Mon, Wed, Thurs, Friday 1PM-5PM | Saturday 8 AM- 1 PM

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Gazebos | Screen House Cupolas | Decks Pergolas | Sunrooms All Custom Crafted

(574) 342-3049 Bourbon, IN

Mastering The Beauty!

Orva Yoder

8094 W. 1050 N., Nappanee, IN (574) 354-7884 - Home (574) 356-6059 - Cell

New Homes • Restoration • Strip & Re-stain Yoder’s Log & Timber Pros is a small, family owned and operated log home business. We specialize in producing custom built log home with a strong belief in quality and integrity.

Garage • Closets • Decks • Pole Barns • Interior Remodeling • Log Home Maintenance Metal Roofs • Custom Traditional Homes • Custom Log Cabin Homes

WE DO CUSTOM CEDAR LOG RAILS THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Spray Polyurethane Foam | Attic Upgrades Wall Retrofits | Pole Barn Insulation New Residential Construction and Remodel 514 W. Mill St. Culver, IN 46511 574-842-5000

www.culversportsidemarina.com

On Top of Drywall | Tanks and Vessels Existing Home Insulation Upgrade

(260)705-7477 • www.theinsulationguys.net 325 Monticello Road | Rochester LOOKING FOR A GREAT WAY TO

ADVERTISE ADVERTISE ADVERTISE LOOKING FOR A GREAT WAY TO

LOOKING FOR A GREAT WAY TO

YOUR BUSINESS OR UPCOMING EVENT?EVENT? YOUR BUSINESS OR UPCOMING YOUR BUSINESS OR UPCOMING EVENT?

CONTACT US TO FIND MORE! CONTACT USOUT TO FIND OUT MORE!

Contact Contact us to find us to out more! find out (317) 716-8812 more!

(317) 716-8812 (317) 716-8812 CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE!

Four Woods Shades & Blinds Graber & Rollese Roller Shades & Shutters Larry & Wilbur Yoder Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm M-F Saturday By Appointment 8430 W. 500 S., Topeka, IN 46571 260-593-2553 x1

Installation Available

APRIL 2019

MAGAZ INE

MEDIA KIT 2017

A WORK OF ART

MEDIA KIT MEDIA KIT2017 2017

7th Annual PlainfieldGuilford Township Public Libra Gala Returns April ry Arts 26-28 PR

IE EM

IS E S U MIER R IS PRE

SU

E

PR

EM

IS S

IER

UE

Darren@PlainfieldMag.com

Darren@PlainfieldMag.com Darren@PlainfieldMag.com MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2016

MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2016

MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2016

PlainfieldMag.com

(574) 249-9217 Meteorolgist Meteorolgist

Chuck Lofton Chuck Lofton

loves life in Avon John@TownePost.com Chuck Lofton loves life in Avon

Meteorolgist

atAvon.com

JANUARY 2017

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

MARCH 2017

MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE MARCH 2017

MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2017

atAvon.com MAGAZINE

MARCH 2017

MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2017

Roller Shade | Roman Shades | Cellular Pleated | Wood Blinds | Vinyl Blinds Vertical Blinds | Shutters | Motorized Lift

atAvon.com

loves life in Avon

TAMIKA CATCHINGS

CATCHINGS Enjoying Retired TAMIKA Life Enjoying Retired Life on the West Side

GREEK RESTAURANT OWNER GUS DAGRES REFLECTS ON THE GUIDE TO GREEK CUISINE

AvonMagazine.com

GREEK RESTAURANT

on the West Side

TAMIKA CATCHINGS AvonMagazine.com

OWNER GUS DAGRES REFLECTS ON THE GUIDE TO GREEK CUISINE

AvonMagazine.com

GREEK RESTAURANT

Enjoying Retired Life on the West Side

OWNER GUS DAGRES REFLECTS ON THE GUIDE TO GREEK CUISINE

AvonMagazine.com

AvonMagazine.com

AvonMagazine.com

JK EICHER Construction Est. June 1927

Pole Barns, Siding, Roofing, Remodeling

419-953-6392 Concrete delivered fresh and on time.

We work with commercial, industrial and residential contractors plus DIYers throughout the service area.

Check out our website for landscape supplies and the best outdoor living options.

www.kuert.com

Rochester (574)224-2414 Warsaw (574)453-2340 Goshen (574)293-0430 South Bend (574)232-9911 Plymouth 11120 11th Road (574)314-9911

FREE ESTIMATES

Call or Text

219.363.4809

Moonlighter Painting • Color Planning

• Special Effect

• Interior Painting

• Staging

• Texturing

• 30 Years of Experience

Green Oak Antiques Old - New - Salvage

Like us!

@ Green Oak Antiques

Open Daily 10-5 • 3024 S 425 E • Rochester

(574) 223-5702 • www.greenoakantiques.com THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Owner Talks Services and Longevity family farm for a year. One day during a lunch includes mowing, bush trimming, spring and run, he observed a mowing crew at a local fall cleanup, and winter sidewalk shoveling; restaurant and thought, “I could do that.” landscaping, which includes designing and Hiatt’s Landscaping has been adding curb implementing plants, rock, mulch and sod; appeal to homes and businesses for 28 years. The following year, Hiatt’s Landscaping and finally, hardscaping, which includes Goose Hiatt, the company’s proprietor, became a reality. Hiatt began with just a patios, walkways, retaining walls, fireplaces, began his journey in 1993. mowing crew, eventually adding landscaping outdoor kitchens, pergolas and pavilions. services and rounding out the business with In the spring of 1992 Hiatt had just graduated hardscaping services as well.

Hiatt fell in love with hardscaping in 2005 from Taylor University with a business when a client asked him to build a patio. degree. Unsure of his next move, he followed Today, Hiatt’s Landscaping offers three Hardscaping now comprises 50% of his his father’s advice and decided to work on the facets of outdoor care - maintenance, which business. To perfect his hardscaping craft, Writer / Tracey Ruckman Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Hiatt obtained Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute and National Concrete Masonry Association certificates, and is an authorized Unilock contractor.

In 2018 Hiatt had a life-changing moment. He was asked to design and build a patio - not just any patio, but a patio everyone would see, as the request came from Rochester Bagel and Coffee House Owner Pia Cannedy. Since patios are typically in homeowners’ backyards, the opportunity was a defining moment for Hiatt. His work would forever be on display for locals to enjoy.

Call for an appointment today!

574-223-2244 www.woodlawnhospital.com THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

“For the rest of my life, I’m going to be known as the one who did the bagel shop,” Hiatt says. “It has been two years and people still compliment me on the job we did.”

Hiatt’s eye for hardscaping, and his drive to learn everything there is to know about the craft, has proven to be a successful combination.

“Whenever I get into something, I really get into it,” he says. “I’ve done every seminar possible on hardscaping.”

Hiatt has been involved in hardscaping for 13 years, and he attends at least ten seminars on the topic per year.

“If I learn one thing that I can incorporate into my business, my business gets better,” he says.

Owners Amy and Goose Hiatt with their son Shepherd.

“Making Yours an Elite One”

Elite

Tile

• Hardscaping

• Mowing

• Retaining walls

• Bush/Tree Trimming

• Paver Patios/ Walkways • Landscaping • Ponds/Water Features • Putting Greens • Mulch • Sod

Specializing in Custom Showers & Floors 574.354.0614 | Nappanee, IN

• Outdoor Lighting • Leaf Removal • Snow Removal • Garland & Christmas Lights

Follow us!

953 W. 3rd St | Rochester 574.223.7515 Office 574.835.1999 Cell

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

For Hiatt, being a business owner isn’t just about the services provided, or the eye-catching curb appeal that enhances a home or a building - it’s also about the people his business revolves around.

It’s about his wife Amy, and their infant son Shepherd Maverick. It’s about the hard-working employees he fondly refers to as his family. It’s about the loyal customers who have been with him for many years, and the new customer relationships yet to be formed.

“We may not be the fastest in town, but we do quality work - we do it the right way and we take great pride in the finished result,” Hiatt says. “I feel blessed to have such a great group of employees.”

Twenty-eight years of owning a business has taught Hiatt many lessons. He has enjoyed passing on his extensive knowledge to others in the business, and sharing his insight through landscaping seminars is a more recent endeavor.

The seminars Hiatt has decided to offer will take place in the landscaping offseason, and will cover two topics – the business side of owning a landscaping company, and the construction aspects of landscaping. One portion of the training will cover best business practices, and how to optimize profits. Another portion will include hands-on training.

Participants will learn to construct a demo patio from start to finish.

Hiatt’s Landscaping continues to leave its mark on northern Indiana. The company specializes in quality, highend, outdoor living spaces, and the staff handles small jobs, large projects and all sizes in between. Hiatt’s continues to beautify and add curb appeal to homes and businesses in multiple communities throughout the area.

Hiatt’s Landscaping is located at 1015 East 4th Street in Rochester. For more information, call 574-223-7515.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

BENEFITS OF SPRAY FOAM ROOFING

• Suitable for a wide range of commercial, agricultural, industrial & residential applications • Spray foam rooms significantly enhances wind uplift resistance • Energy conservation/lower heating and cooling costs • Repair vs. replace recover or repair existing roofs and eliminate extra construction costs • Eliminating seams and joints • Builds proper drainage • Foam-Lok roofing systems meets or exceeds all natural building code requirements

HEARTLAND ENTERPRISE 574.835.4419 (Paul Burnholder)

Before

After

We also do closed & open cell spray foam into cement blocks plus spray and injection foam for pole buildings metal buildings roofs, acoustical, marine flotation, underground

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Grilling BBQ tools & Cookbooks

by Steve Rachlein

Custom Cabinets & Woodworking Henry & Ada Lehman

Ph: 574-642-0535 ext 1 Fax: 574-642-3247

10888 CR 34 Goshen, IN 46528

Ageless Beauty...

Quality Craftmanship 574-586-2745 NewKitchenStore.com

330 Liberty Street Walkerton, IN 46574

10 times stronger than Epoxy Specializing in Interior & Exterior Concrete Pole Barns • Additions • Metal Roofing Remodeling • Commercial Roofing Elmer Miller, 2555 S 200 W LaGrange, IN 46761

(260) 499-3113 Ext. 1

• Rated for Hot Tires up to 400 degrees • Chip and Glaze, Stain resistant and unlimited color options • Truck Beds • Trailers • Gartage Floors • Warehouses • Laundry Rooms • Patios • Retail Areas • Locker Rooms • Storage Facilities • Kennels • Laboratories • Basements • Restrooms & Laundry Rooms • Hospitals • Showrooms Showers

1/4” Flakes Maui Sand

574-382-0162 www.DLHCANDC.com

John Deere

Tuscan Tan

Stealth Gray

Coconut

Carribean Blue

Bermuda Blue

Dusty Rose

Cocoa Brown

Call for FREE Estimate

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Show Mom How Much You Appreciate Her This Mother’s Day Mother’s Day will soon be upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about how to make your mom feel special on her day. Most moms in our lives deserve an award for all the amazing things they do, from cooking dinners to catching tears and giving the best hugs - but if you don’t have the time or money to erect a statue or create an award just for her, we’ve got your back with these easy and unique ways to show your appreciation.

Writer / Abigail Hake . Photography Provided

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Bouquets Ok, we know a floral bouquet is not so unique, but if you take this basic idea and run with it, there are many possibilities.

Find something she loves or something that makes her smile, and pull it together in bouquet form. Maybe it’s cookies, balloons or even candy. Try something a little outside of the box by creating a vintage brooch bouquet and placing it in a handmade vase that she can look at all the time (both available on Etsy. com). Some of these ideas you can find at retailers around town, and others you might have to create on your own.

Either way, any unique take on a normal bouquet is sure to bring an ear-to-ear grin.

Handwritten Letters

We Bring flooring samples ight to your home or office.

When was the last time you wrote your mom a handwritten letter? Maybe second grade? Well, the time has come to

We Also Do Stairways

Our Glue down vinyl planking is perfect to use on concrete or over wood.

Call Joseph @ (574) 564-5856 or (574) 773-2673 THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

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 THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

consider doing this again. Not only will she love hearing about all the things that are important to you that involve her, but this is also a surefire way to get an almost endless hug from her.

Donations Chat your mom up a little to figure out which cause might be the best fit for a donation in her name. Was she a successful businesswoman? If so, Dress for Success might be a good fit. Was she a teacher? Consider Girls Inc. Wherever you donate in her name, it’s sure to touch her heart.

Get-Togethers As we grow older, getting together with family gets harder. Many moms enjoy having the entire family around the dinner table, in the living room or on the back porch. Try to schedule a family brunch or lunch. If your family members are scattered across the country, schedule a time to gather on FaceTime for a bit to catch up with your mom, and laugh like families do when they are together.

Picture Books

Stone Coated Metal Roofing, Metal Roofing, Asphalt Shingles Post Frame Buildings, New Energy Homes, Garages

Call (574) 773-0494 We are a Metstar Building Products Preferred Contractor.

dandjroofingandconstruction.com Proudly Serving Marshall County, Kosciusko County & Nearby Communities

It’s very easy these days to pull photos from social media and create magical photo memories. Shutterfly, Chatbooks and even Walgreens have easy-to-use platforms. The best part is that these last forever. Not only will your mom love looking at the photos while awaiting your next visit, but it will also allow her to relive meaningful moments over and over. Don’t be afraid to add in photos of drawings your kids made, or maybe THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

something you made as a kid. Sprinkling in nods to the past really takes this to the next level.

Do Something Crazy No, this doesn’t mean do something that will get you in trouble. Simply do something with your mom that’s perhaps outside of your comfort zone, and just plain fun. Sign up for a fun 5K race - there are tons of 5K opportunities out there, and you can choose to walk or run in many of them. You might also try a city scavenger hunt or go geocaching. It might even be fun to rent your mom’s dream car and go on a road trip. Whatever crazy, fun activity you choose, make those memories and remind your mom that you love her very much.

Remember to get started on your ideas with enough time to make the next Mother’s Day a memorable one. Our mothers sacrifice many things for us so that we can grow and prosper, so take the time to make them feel special.

Remember that mothers are a blessing, and deserve to be showered with amazing love all year long.

/thelakesmagazine

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

AERS

CONStRuCtION

Lower than Competition!

WE SPECIALIZE IN POLE BARNS Choose from Bonded Leather, Fabric, and Vinyl.

Power Reclining Theater Seat, Tri Fold Sofa Bed, Jack Knife Sofa Bed, Push Back Recliner, Swivel Rocker Recliner, Dinette Booths.

0465 E. 450 S., Wolcottville, IN 46795 260-768-8145 ∙ aers@ibyfax.com

WE SPECIALIZE IN CuStOmER SERvICE

Overstock Brand New RV Furniture Priced 50% Lower than Competition.

13657 Co. Rd. 34 | Goshen Text/Call 260-350-4654

Birch Road

GREENHOUSE Trees, Shrubs, Hanging Baskets, Perennials, Fall Decor, Annuals, Tropicals, Vegetable Plants, Variety of 130 Types of Vegetable Seeds, Potting Soil, Mums, Garden Tools , Soil, Fertilizers, and More.

3050 Birch Rd. Bremen, IN 46506 574-248-1610

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

HEAR, RELAX, ENJOY

Diagnostic hearing evaluation, Hearing aid evaluation and fitting, In-office hearing aid cleaning & Repair Services.

Hometown Hearing & Audiology, LLC. (574) 269-5828 www.besthearingcare.com 1610 E. Center St., Warsaw, IN

(260) 306-3444 hometownhearingnm.com 225 E. Main St. North Manchester, IN

WHISPERING SPRING GREENHOUSE

TURNING 65 IN THE NEXT 6 MONTHS? Flooded with literature and you don’t know where to start?

Unlike a lot of the other agents, we, at the Evans Agency, take the time to help you understand your options.

Judith D. Evans 410 Main St Rochester, Indiana 46975 (574) 224-6988

Monday - Saturday 9am-6pm Closed Sunday 5176 E. St. Rd. 110, Rochester, IN 2 miles West of St. Rd 25 | 4 miles East of Old 31

15% OFF All Hats April 7th- May 4th

CNC Routing & Manufacturing of Polymer Products & Buggy Parts

Signs & Post Kits

Mailbox Signs

We make custom signs from Colorcore sheets.

These signs will last much longer than vinyl signage. Colorcore polymer sheets are environmentally stabilized for a lifetime of worry free use in harsh outdoor environments.

AD PROOF: The People’s Exchange • Designer Tamar Wilkins

POLYMER PRODUCTS THAT LAST

ANNUALS, SUCCULENTS & HANGING BASKETS.

Fabrics Embroidery Notions deTerra Clothes Housewares Home Decor Norwax

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

- PLEASE RESP

7205 N 675 W Shipshewana, IN 46565 P: 260-350-3506 F: 260-768-4218

Brynn and Brandon Wilson, and owners Helen and Tim Durkes

TH E F L AGP OLE Long-Time Rochester Ice Cream Shop Is Flourishing Under New Ownership Writer / Mary Lowry Photographer / Lana King

Jim, wanted to purchase the shop in the late 1960s, but never saw that dream come true.

The Flagpole ice cream shop in Rochester has been a community staple since it first opened in 1949. In May 2019, after a brief closure, it reopened under new management. Helen and Tim Durkes took over last year, achieving one of Tim’s longheld dreams of owning an ice cream shop.

Getting it opened was truly a family affair. In the process, they learned that Tim’s father,

Helen and Brynn Wilson, one of Helen and Tim’s children, both lost their jobs just a few months before The Flagpole reopened. They were able to commit themselves fully to the When the Durkes reopened the shop, they ice cream shop then, successfully opening it decided to try and restore it to the glory it in May. held in the 1970s, the way they remembered it. They kept the same high-quality ice “When I lost my job, I was unsure of my cream recipes and offered customers similar

thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 41

next steps,” Brynn says. “I was always in food service, so when [my parents] decided to do this, neither one of them had much food experience, so [my coming in] was a natural fit.”

Medical and Surgical Group

food choices like hot dogs. For their Coney dog specifically, the original Coney sauce recipe from the 1970s takes center stage on an all-beef hot dog.

The hot dogs aren’t the only mouthwatering thing to catch your attention, though. With 15 different flavors of homemade ice cream, there’s something for everybody. Lemon is their most popular flavor, and they have classics like French vanilla, strawberry and chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for one of the less common flavors, like Red Indian, which is a cinnamon ice cream. You can enjoy your ice cream in a homemade waffle cone, too.

The staff of Pulaski Memorial Hospital Medical and Surgical Group works diligently to provide groundbreaking services and care to the residents of Pulaski County and surrounding communities.

With twenty-four excellent physicians and nurse practitioners operating clinics in five convenient locations, our team is dedicated to providing “Quality Care, Closer To Home.”

Medical Office Locations Winamac • Francesville • North Judson • Monterey • Knox

For questions about services provided or to schedule an appointment, please call (574) 946-2194.

616 E. 13th St., Winamac, IN • (574) 946-2100 • www.pmhnet.com 42 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Jim Durkes and Brynn’s husband, Brandon, make all of the ice cream every week. Made on the original ice cream machine from 1949, they make it with 14% butter-fat content and no air is mixed in, which makes the ice cream as smooth and creamy as can be.

The best part of owning The Flagpole, though, Helen and Brynn agree, is serving people. They’ve met people that have traveled for their ice cream from Knox, Warsaw, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne and even as far as Michigan.

“When we opened this, we decided we wanted this place to be the fun place that people can go and enjoy getting ice cream and a hot dog,” Helen says.

You can visit The Flagpole Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 am to 7 pm, or Thursday through Saturday

from 11:30 am to 8 pm. They are currently closed on Sunday and Monday. You can find the full menu on their Facebook page, @theflagpole1949, and place an order by calling ahead or placing an online order.

The link for ordering online is also found on their Facebook page. The Flagpole is located at 514 E 9th Street in Rochester and you can give them a call at 574-223-6218.

WE HAUL IT ALL

RIVERSIDE SURPLUS New Inventory Weekly

DUMPSTER SERVICE Phone or Text (574) 946-7711

Jennifer A. Korous is a CPA serving the area with 2 convenient locations.

Individual/Business Tax Services Payroll Services

4915 W. State Road 10 North Judson

(574)896-2204

Financial Statement Preparation Business Planning & Consulting

120 E. 17th Street Rochester

(574)223-1040

Jennifer@jlwidman.com | www.jlwidman.com

Generators ∙ Makita Tools Pressure Washers ∙ Soap Electric Motors ∙ Fans Office Supplies ∙ Shutters Tools ∙ Safety Equipment Air Guns ∙ Industrial Supplies Heating & Cooling Supplies Pallet Jacks ∙ Conklin Products Unique Miscellaneous Wed- Fri 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Sat 8:00 am to 3:00 pm 68014 State Road 13, Millersburg, IN 574-642-0117

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

John Little, Teresa Houser and Owner Chuck Pocock

MANITOU REALTY & AUCTION Owner Talks More Than 25 Years of Success

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Lana King

When a Rochester resident gives directions to the office of Manitou Realty & Auction, located at 1229 Main Street, they very likely say, “Look for the cemetery in the parking lot.” Joking aside, the tasteful headstones and memorials are samples of merchandise sold through the company’s sister business, a branch of Wearly

Monuments. Both endeavors are owned

by Chuck Pocock, and represent smalltown business serving the community at its best.

Manitou Realty & Auction offers real estate services, including auctions and appraisals. Pocock, who has lived in Rochester his entire life, initially got started in the business by working with his

44 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

father. Several years ago, while Pocock was working in the manufacturing business, the two of them began renovating houses.

“Dad and I would buy foreclosed houses, rehab them, rent them for five or six years and then sell them,” he says. “Dad was also an auctioneer and I often helped him with that. In 1994, I was ready for a complete career change, so together we bought

the real estate business from an older gentleman.

“The strange twist was that both the real estate business and the monument business were a package deal. It was a real head-scratcher, but we bought it that way and kept the two businesses intact.

I came to realize what a unique service Wearly Monuments offers and I have no desire to get rid of it.”

Before

AFTER

JayH Construction, LLC Quality Construction at an Affordable Price New Homes • Room Additions Roofing Shingles or Metal roofs Interior/Exterior Remodeling All Types of Residential Construction Fully Insured

Free 574-453-7938 Estimates

www.jayhconstruction.com thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 45

Eventually, he purchased his father’s share of the business, although the elder Pocock still continues to help out. Today, he employs several people who have the ability to wear different hats. Presently in the office are four licensed auctioneers, three of which are real estate agents and two are accredited appraisers. Everyone in the office is experienced in selling monuments.

“We have a great relationship with Wearly Monuments,” Pocock says. “It’s a family-owned company that began in Muncie in 1899. The memorials are beautiful and will be there forever.

It’s been a good business, and we are consistently one of the top dealers in terms of sales.”

The real estate side of Pocock’s business offers residential, lakefront and commercial properties. Auction and appraisal services are the perfect compliment to make the business fully able to meet its customers needs.

Manitou’s personal property appraisers are highly skilled and know the value of goods, in part because they see what things are in demand and what price they will bring at auctions. Auctions

only three legs auctioned off for several hundred dollars.

“The business is diversified, but all the parts of it fit together. It’s a business of trust. We have a lot of experience and we’ve been in business for a long time. People who trust us tell other people about us.”

Visit Manitou Realty & Auction at 1229 Main Street in Rochester or call 574-2232010 for more information. held include those for estate sale household goods and business liquidation to sell merchandise and leftover parts.

When asked why a family would opt for an auction over a garage or tag sale, Pocock says, “The difference is that in a tag sale, the price is put on it by the seller. An auctioneer holds up items with no predetermined price. Something worth $2, might go for $6.”

“One of the most unique auctions we held was on the site of what had been a multigeneration dairy farm,” Pocock adds. “The barns were full of farm implements in pristine condition and many were made out of wood. There was lots of old signage.

Family members had already put items in the trash that they didn’t think would sell.

We said, ‘Don’t throw things away, we can sell them!’ Sure enough, even a table with

CU LV E R A N I M A L H O S P I TA L

 1111 N Lake Shore Dr. Culver, IN  (574) 842-3155

POCOCK MONUMENTS Since 1899 Wearly Monuments has offered the most complete line of memorial products in the Industry.

574-223-2010

1229 MAIN ST | ROCHESTER 46 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Cell:

Call or Text Paul Caudill Cell: 574-835-0387 Home: 574-223-4855 6786 N 250 W Rochester, IN 46975

Trucking • Excavating Demolition • Ponds Septics • Water Line Site Prep Insurance Work Land & Fence Row Clearing Driveways Black Dirt • Gravel Sand • Fill • Limestone

Countertop Shoppe Fine Cabinetry Custom Design • Re-model • Installation 505 W. Jefferson Street Plymouth, IN 46563 ctopshoppe@gmail.com (574) 936-1423 fax (574) 936-9575

The First Step Into Your New Home

574-896-5138

www.welcomemat.bz

Come check out our selection of special gifts for Mom’s & Grads!

Let us help you create a unique personalized gift.

Judy Flory

Managing Broker

574-806-2778

Judy@welcomemat.bz

Mike Hajek 574-806-0656

Mike@welcomemat.bz

Clyde Flory 574-806-1882

Clyde@welcomemat.bz

Grant Downs Sales / Service

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

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

For all inquiries contact Sandy Saenz.

Open Tue - Fri 9:00am to 5:30pm | Saturday 9:00am to 3:00pm (574)936-5259 | Simpleestatedgifts@yahoo.com 100 W. Garro St. • Plymouth | www.simpleestatedgifts.com

Sales • Installation • Chemicals Parts • Liners • Winterization Above & Below Ground Pools Paul & Angie Caudill Rochester, Indiana

Call /Text Cell:(574)223-4855 or Home:(574)835-0387 thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 47

Fred Allen Auto Center Celebrates Three Decades of Service Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Fred Allen was 29 when he purchased a bankrupt Chevrolet-Buick dealership in Winamac in 1990. Looking back, he’s the first to admit that it was an aggressive move.

However, for the Air Force veteran, longtime Chevy dealership employee, and General Motors Dealer Academy grad, it was simply the next step toward achieving his goals.

“I just felt like owning one was something I really desired to have,” Allen says. “I felt like I was in position when the franchise General Motors became available in Winamac. It was something that I wanted to do for myself and my family, and it was a chance to move back to my hometown.”

For the next ten years, Allen sold quality General Motors vehicles to the community.

“The Braun Corporation in town needed the franchise for vans, and they wanted to own it,” Allen says. “So I sold them the business.”

The building, however, is another story. It was only leased to the Braun Corporation, and was maintained by Allen.

In 2005, Allen and Brad wanted to get back into the auto business. Without the franchise, they faced some interesting challenges.

to Chevrolet-Buick, I was able to get different types of vehicles for my customers.”

Allen also expanded the business to include advanced services like detailing, window tinting, dent removal and financing, in addition to routine car maintenance.

After reopening, the business became known for late-model cars and trucks.

“Even though we only stock 25 or 30 “For ten years, I had Chevrolet and General [vehicles], we have a very large turnover of “One of the things we’ve always tried to do is Motors that were repairing the vehicles under our inventory, which is unusual,” Allen says. warranty,” says Allen.

“Most dealerships have 90 days. We could take care of our customers,” Allen says. buy five cars in one week, and usually three or four of them are already sold.”

The business also gave Allen the opportunity Without a manufacturer warranty, Allen to train his sons in business management. His needed a different kind of guarantee.

Allen and his staff set high standards for the son Brad, who now serves as general manager Instead of buying a different franchise label, the Allens opened under their own name, vehicles on their lot. of Allen’s business, jokes that he’s been and Fred Allen Auto Center was born. working at the dealership since he was 12.

“Our customers determine what we stock,” “It allowed me to get all different types of Allen says. “If a certain SUV and a certain In 2000, a surprising opportunity presented brands,” Allen says. “Instead of being limited model is the best value for the dollar, then itself.

48 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

that’s the vehicle we concentrate on.”

Allen’s customers appreciate his willingness to stick by his products, and provide quality services along with his low-mile, dependable inventory.

“A lot of dealers will spend thousands of dollars to get people in, but once they leave with their car, that’s the last you hear from them,” Allen says. “I would rather spend the [advertising] money after you purchase with repairs. Most of my advertising is in repeat business or word of mouth. That’s what I really think has helped us the best - we always stand behind our product.”

After thirty years of selling and servicing cars, Allen has turned his attention to enjoying semi-retirement, leaving the lion’s share of business management to the next generation.

The Gray Mill & Graybeal’s Carpet Plus 67 years in business, family owned for 3 generations Celebrating 68 years from March-May 2020 Over 16,000 sq. ft. of Quality Furniture, Mattresses, Home Accessories, Artwork, Residential and Commercial Floor-covering with Professional Installation Available

“We talk daily and [Brad] runs stuff by me, and I’m still able to input a lot of my information over the years and he respects that,” Allen says. “I’m very fortunate to have him. There’s nothing better than having your family take over the business.

It’s a nice reward to be able to step back and watch it continue to grow, and continue to be successful.”

Fred Allen Auto Center is located at 820 South Monticello Street in Winamac.

Inventory details and a full list of services are available online at FredAllenAuto.com.

You can also reach out to the staff with questions or to schedule an appointment by calling 574-946-7145.

www.thegraymill.com Follow us on Facebook!

800-886-2215 500 E. Broadway Downtown Logansport American Built Brands like:

G EOvernight N E V A CERetreats N T E R • Adult & Youth Retreats • Banquets  5282 N Old US&Hwy College High31School Retreats • Family Reunions Rochester, IN Weddings • Day Meetings • Business Meetings Palettes

by Winesburg, Comfort Design, Southern Motion  (574) 223-6915 Stearns & Foster Host Site for your Camp Program • And so much more & a wide variety of Amish built products

5282 N Old US Hwy 31 | Rochester • 574.223.6915 thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 49

Local family owned and operated for 30 years

Quality, Clean, Late Model & Pre-owned Vehicles

Purchase with peace of mind!

All vehicles come with a 3 month / 3000 mile warranty!

• Window Tinting • Auto detailing For inquiries contact Brad Allen at brad@fredallenauto.com (574)946-7145

Russell Kietzman Financial Advisor 574-935-5647

Craig Wilson Financial Advisor 574-935-4108

Cristy Keller Financial Advisor 574-935-3909

Mark Bishop Financial Advisor 574-935-0030

Todd Clady Financial Advisor 574-935-4183

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

www.fredallenauto.com

Now Serving Fried Fish Dinner on Fridays OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

FRIED BREADSTICKS

COOKIE MONSTER DESSERT

DEEP DISH PIZZA

WE NOW HAVE BROASTED CHICKEN, POTATOES & PORK CHOPS

10 N. MAIN ST. KNOX • 574-772-5888 • WWW.MOMMASPIZZERIA.COM 50 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

home that a family would live in,” Annette says.

Richard & Annette had an Amish crew take it down, load it onto a semi and reassemble the logs on their property in Walkerton, located 25 miles from South Bend. The 1830 log home features three bedrooms (can sleep up to 12), a modern bath, antique décor, fireplace, gas & oil lights, rope bed, a 40-piece cast iron cookware collection, and a 1901 Kimble player piano that belts out 100 different tunes.

The couple also erected a smaller primitive log cabin that lacks electricity and running water. It has a loft that sleeps seven, a wood cook stove, Hoosier cabinet, old “ice” box and a Sietz bath.

“It’s perfect for anyone who wants to really get back to the Little House on the Prairie feel,” Annette adds.

The Hesters continue to live in their ranch home on the property and rent out both cabins for weekend or week-long family getaways. Back in the early 1990s, their rental properties were quite popular, particularly during Thanksgiving, Christmas and football season.

The Charm of the Farm Hesters Farm Log Homes Invites Guests to Embrace Simplicity Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

If you’re looking to step back in time, visit Hesters Farm Log Homes, a dairy farm/bed & breakfast that has been around since the mid-1970s.

“My father always wanted to have a log home and a pond,” says owner Annette Hesters, who runs the farm with her husband Richard and son Ted. “My brother had the pond, but there was no log home

on it so Richard and I hunted and finally found one in Marshall County, just south of Plymouth.

“We had doctors and concert pianists from all over the world come to Notre Dame games,” Annette says. “As South Bend has added hotels in the downtown area, it’s been hard to compete because they offer so many modern amenities, but for anyone looking for simple, old-fashioned farm simplicity, we are the perfect choice.”

In 2016, the couple added to the property with a new structure.

“My mom and I had gone to Ireland in 1999.

I told my husband that if we ever went back, I’d like to stay in a castle overnight,” says Annette presumes that the structure was once a trading post or weigh station given its Annette, whose ancestors inhabited Ireland location in the Twin Lakes of Plymouth as it 150 years ago. Though Annette never made would have been a marketing area between it back, when Annette’s 99-year-old uncle, a WWII Bataan Death March survivor, passed Indian tribes and the traders who came away, he left her an inheritance. through in the early 1800s.

“Plus, it’s four times larger than a typical log

“He told me not to put it back into the farm so I built a castle instead,” she says. “It’s

thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 51

nothing grand. The building isn’t that big — 24x24, but it sits up on a hill and is much larger in appearance than what it actually is.”

Castle LeBlanc has antique décor, gas & oil lights, a large loft and three trestle tables that can seat 30. The upstairs bedroom includes a princess bed with gauze netting over the top of it.

“My grandmother’s dresser is in there,” Annette adds. “It’s a comforting place for me to go.”

The property also has a dairy farm run by Ted. They milk twice a day from March to December. Ted built a 16-milk side-byside milking system on the back side of the farm, and guests may watch baby calves and cows being milked, day or night.

“Most people don’t get up for the 4 a.m. milking,” says Annette with a laugh. “They catch the afternoon session.”

Guests can also enjoy other farm animals, which include Sicilian donkeys, miniature horses, bantam chickens, Shetland sheep, kinder goats, dwarf rabbits, pygmy goats and alpaca. They also have a Haflinger horse breeding farm that breeds small draft size horses that were first introduced to the United States in 1958, imported from Austria.

“We had one of the original mares brought over when we started raising Haflingers,” Annette says.

When Renaissance groups visit the property to do battle reenactments, they utilize the castle, the log home, the primitive cabin and the Kentucky barn, which houses Richard’s antique tractors.

A corner of the Kentucky barn has an old dairy display with the stations where cows would have been milked in bygone days, the milking pails that milk went into before there was a pipeline, a half dozen hand-driven churns and a cream separator, among other things.

“You could come here a dozen times and you’ll find a dozen new things every time,” 52 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

Annette says.

For instance, The Hesters’ have a surrey, a horse-drawn manure spreader, a Studebaker wagon and two horse-drawn sleighs.

They hold four open houses a year for the historical reenactments. Annette says that inevitably someone will say to her, “I’ve gone past your house for 20 years and seen your signs out each May, June, July and October, but I never stopped. Wow! I had no idea all of this cool stuff was back here.”

This year the dates for Spring Fling are tentatively set for May 8-10, for Berry Feis June 12-14, for Freedom Fest July 3-5, and for Americana 1800 October 9-11.

Hesters Farm Log Homes also holds sustainable living workshops for groups of 8-10 to learn a skill such as blacksmithing, spin-quilting, churning, canning, candle dipping, Dutch oven cooking, and cast iron

cooking over an open fire.

Overnight guests to Hesters Farm have traveled from all over, including California, New York, Kansas, Arkansas and Illinois.

“There was a gal from California who, when she arrived, looked around and asked how to get internet access for her computer,” Annette says. “Everybody laughed and said, ‘Remember, we’re in the 1830s. We don’t have computers. Enjoy your weekend!’”

Ultimately, the woman did enjoy unplugging and basking in the peace and quiet of nature.

“Some people still like getting back to the simple things in life,” Annette says. “For those people, this retreat is ideal.”

Hesters Farm Log Homes is located at 71880 State Road 23 in Walkerton. For more information, call 574-586-2105 or visit them online at hestersfarmloghomes.com.

TATE INSURANCE AGENCY Focus on what makes YOU unique.

Bundle Home and Auto for 3 years and get paid back 25% if no claims!

HAND CRAFTED ICE CREAM NOW FEATURING FRESH GROUND GOURMET COFFEE

826 Main Street | Rochester 574.223.7542

• New Summer Flavors • • Old-Fashioned Shakes and Malts • • Collective Baked Goods From The Lakes Region • • Vintage Catering Cart Available •

WINAMAC OPEN YEAR ROUND!

574.242.2712 • 317 N. US 35, WINAMAC

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

Brothers with Mowers Lawn Care Let our Family take care of Yours!

Lakes related merchandise, antiques, south bend chocolates, furniture, and more.

Tues - Fri 11 AM -6 PM Sat 9 AM-6 PM Sun 1 PM - 5 PM

Light Landscaping Lawn Care & Maintenance Spring & Fall Clean up Call or Text James Riffey for a quote Hedge & Bush Trimming Leaf Removal 574-249-2517 & More www.brotherswithmowers.com

(574) 952-0852 burroakwhistlestop@gmail.com 15295 State Rd. 17 Culver, IN 46511

WESTERN TACK & LEATHER HARNESS

New, Used & Custom Saddles

Michael Schwartz 212-696-8622 ext. 1 241 5B Rd Bremen, IN 46506

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: 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 54 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / MAY 2020 / thelakesmagazine.com

574-842-5000

514-W. Mill St. Culver, IN www.culversportsidemarina.com

IS YOUR HOME OR BARN WELL INSULATED? Licensed, Bonded, Insured

habitatomc.org P.O. Box 524 | Plymouth 116 S Walnut St | Plymouth (574) 935-4214 Cell (574) 935-4206

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

FRESH CUT MEATS

Local Family Owned & Operated Store

www.savealot.com • (574)772-2229 2580 S US Hwy 35 • Knox Monday-Saturday 7 AM - 8 PM • Sunday 8 AM-8 PM

Mike - (574) 242-0463 Winamac, mandjssprayfoam IN mandjssprayfoam@gmail.com

Open Monday through Thursday 4:30pm to 8:00pm

Hip Hop, Contemporary, Competitive & More

200 N. Michigan Plymouth

Ages 2 & 1/2 to Adult

574-935-0769

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

Open Monday thru Friday and every Saturday until noon

Tracy Haddix, NP

Kim McCullough, NP

1002 S. Edgwood Drive Knox, IN 46534 | 574-772-6030 thelakesmagazine.com / MAY 2020 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / 55

Providing Expert Maintenance, Repair & Installation Justin Time Plumbing & Heating is your area’s one-stop shop for all comfort system services!

Call our team when you need plumbing, heating, air conditioning, water heater, air quality or light commercial services.

We are your local comfort system maintenance, repair, installation and replacement experts.

24 HOUR SERVICE www.justintimeplumbingandheating.com Justin Time Plumbing and Heating, LLC

(574) 780-2245

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