The Lakes Magazine December 2021

FREE MONTHLY PRINT MAGAZINE WITH CORRESPONDING MOBILE APP AND SOCIAL MEDIA FEATURING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES, AND EVENTS IN AND AROUND MARSHALL , FULTON, STARKE & PULASKI COUNTY

MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2021

A Taste for the Best

NEW KITCHEN STORE KEEPS THINGS SPICY TAKE YOUR HOLIDAY COOKIE TRADITIONS TO THE NEXT LEVEL REALLY SMOKIN’

Flavor is Never in Short Supply at Old Hoosier Meats

TownePost.com THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 1

Midwest Farm & Pet, LLC A DIFFERENCE YOU CAN SEE Trusted & Proven Performance

• • • • • •

Livestock Feeds Purina Kalmbach Tribute ADM Wild Bird Seed

• • • • •

Suet Cakes Pet Food & Supplies Food Plots Lawn & Pond Supplies Rodenticides

$5 OFF Purchase of $25 or more

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

Jerad (574)536-5418 • 6223 8th Road | Plymouth 2 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

STOREHOURS: HOURS: STORE Furniture In Stock For Immediate Delivery!!!

Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm Sat. 9am-5pm 10am - 5pm Sat: Closed ClosedSunday Sunday

Christmas Decor LIMITED TIME ONLY! 574-936-1299 LIMITED TIME ONLY! and Gifts $

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FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 & 6, 2021 •L10:00AM–5:00PM MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 3 JTHE O ELAKES PINNACLE Rocking Rocking FREE FINANCING 24 MONTHS WITH A $500 PURCHASE!*

(3-pc. set)

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These plans were designed with standard construction practices in mind. Due to variations in state, local, and federal codes, revisions may be required to these plans. It remains the responsibility of the builder to review the information, and assure that it is revised to become code compliant, appropriate, and complete.

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4 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

IN THIS ISSUE

For advertising information, contact: PUBLISHERS JOHN & MANDI LEWANDOWSKI john@townepost.com mandi@townepost.com 574.249.9217 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS TAMI STOUT tami@townepost.com 765.434.4460 TINA KEAFFABER tina@townepost.com 574.371.7482

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER/CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY

DECEMBER 2021

7

SPUNKY THE LITTLE HORSE MAKES BIG DREAMS COME TRUE

11

Columbia Elementary Preschool Helps Prepare Youngsters for the Road Ahead

16

TAKE YOUR HOLIDAY COOKIE TRADITIONS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

20

PAMPER YOURSELF

Woodhouse Day Spa Is the Perfect Spot to Relax

25

New Kitchen Store Keeps Things Spicy

31

#SPOTLIGHTINGLOCAL FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

Flickinger Farms Provides Trees & a Fun Experience for Customers

57

SERVICE TO OTHERS

Junior High School Project Allows Students to Step Up for the Community

61

CLUB CULTURE

Heston Supper Club Turns 40

A LIVING MEMORIAL

Marshall County is Home to a Unique Tribute to Area Veterans

STAYING SHARP

Reality Show Winner Operates Winamac-Based Forge Business

REALLY SMOKIN’

Flavor is Never in Short Supply at Old Hoosier Meats

42

73

POWER PLAY

Solar Project Ramps Up in Fulton County

JUST IN CASE FOUNDATION TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

O CHRISTMAS TREE

69

37 Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

Dishes Can Be Both Festive and Functional

66

A TASTE FOR THE BEST

Celebrates 30th Anniversary

REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

LET’S DISH

51

IN SESSION

POTTER’S TREE FARM

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

48

Nonprofit Raises Funds and Awareness for SIDS

77

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN DECEMBER AT THE LAKES

KEY CONTRIBUTORS ABIGAIL HAKE / ANGELA CORNELL / CARMEN MILLS / JUBILEE EDGELL JULIE YATES / JEFF KENNEY / MATT KEATING / LOIS TOMASZEWSKI TIMOTHY HARE / TONY STRAW

Friday, November 12th, 9-5 (CST) Saturday, November 13th 9-5 (CST) Sunday, November 14th 1-5 (CST) Friday, November 12th, 9-5 (CST) Saturday, November 13th 9-5 (CST) Sunday, November 14th 1-5 (CST)

We will be open for the next five weekends through December 19th

We will be open on Weekends

the 12th, thrill9-5 of the Country Friday, Enjoy November (CST) through December 19th.

Saturday, November 13th 9-5 (CST) Farm House and Outbuildings, November 12th, 9-5 (CST) 16thFriday, Sunday, November 14th 1-5 (CST) Saturday, November 13th 9-5 (CST) filled with the unique gifts, Enjoy thrill

of the Country Farm House and Outbuildings, sounds of Christmas! filled with unique gifts, Enjoy the thrillthe of thethrill Country Enjoy of the Country Farm House and Outbuildings, 16th handmade articles, smells and Something different added each Farm and Outbuildings, filled withHouse unique gifts, Year 16th filled with unique gifts, handmade articles, smells and Year weekend for you tosounds see and purchase! of Christmas! sounds of Christmas! handmade articles, smells and

Year

We will be open forarticles, the next smells five and handmade We will be open for the next five weekends through December 19th weekends through December 19th

Sunday, November 14th 1-5 (CST)

We will be open for the next five weekends through December 19th

Friday, November 12th, 9-5 (

13th 9-5 ( EnjoySaturday, the thrillNovember of the Country Sunday,and November 14th 1-5 ( Farm House Outbuildings, 16th filled unique Year Wewith will be opengifts, for the next handmade articles, smellsDecember and November 12th, 9-5 (CST) weekends through Something Friday, different added each Saturday, November 13th 9-5 (CST) of Christmas! weekend for you to see andsounds purchase!

Enjoy the thrill of the Cou Sunday, November 14th 1-5 (CST) SHOP FOR SPECIAL FAMILY, Farm House and Something different added eachOutbuild 16th FRIENDS We AND NEIGHBORS filled with unique gift will be open for the next five Year weekend for you to see and purchase!

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SPUNKY THE LITTLE HORSE MAKES BIG DREAMS COME TRUE Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Melissa Weisser, the author of Spunky the Little Horse, a picture book which tells the story of her Shetland pony, seeks to teach children the importance of sticking to their dreams until they become reality.

“Children need to feel strong and encouraged to follow their dreams and make sure that they happen, letting nothing stand in their way,” Weisser says.

Spunky’s story is certainly inspiring.

Originally, he was owned by an Amish farmer who intended to train him to pull a cart. However, Spunky would have none of it, so his first family decided he needed a new home. “The farmer told us, ‘He really

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 7

stands up to his name.

He’s so spunky, he won’t let us put a bit on him,’” Weisser recalls.

Although he refused a bit, he was perfect for Weisser’s daughter, Grayson, as a 4-H project. “He’s really a beautiful pony,” Weisser says. “He’s a sweet, adorable, loveable little pony that anyone can relate to.

He’s so laid back.”

Almost immediately, Spunky was launched into the world of 4-H fairs, and there he found his stride. At his first fair, he earned a champion and a grand champion rating in different classes.

“He didn’t have the bloodlines or anything to be a show pony, but we said, ‘we’re going to take him anyway,’ ” Weisser explains.

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“That’s why I felt so inspired by Spunky.

He didn’t want to be a workhorse. He was meant to be a show pony. He was strong and courageous and followed his dream.”

Over the next several years, Spunky never ceased to charm judges and spectators alike, earning several trophies in the process.

“Animals know when they’re beautiful. It’s really weird,” Weisser says. “They know they have what it takes when they’re being judged.

He still lives up to his name. People still adore him.”

Although he has retired from the show ring, he still keeps up an active social life, attending birthday parties, holiday festivities, volunteer opportunities and fundraisers. He’s even been in a commercial. What’s more, retirement suits Spunky, who thoroughly enjoys being a socialite.

This little horse with a big personality has become an inspiring role model.

“He has a lot to show children. Not only does he follow his dream and makes it happen, but he also does volunteer work,” Weisser says.

It was this that ultimately inspired her to write a children’s book.

It was a long journey, and one that has been met with as much success as Spunky’s 4-H career. “It took me six years to write it, but I started and I’m like, ‘I’ve got to finish it and get it out there,’ ” Weisser says. “Several people have told me that they love it. It’s a sweet story, and their kids really love Spunky.”

Now that Spunky’s story has been published, Weisser hopes that he will be able to attend more gatherings to promote the book, especially since the second book in her series,

a 1-10 counting book featuring Spunky’s girlfriend, Jazz, is scheduled to be published in the next few months.

“I’m going to start taking him out to the community to different schools and let children get to know him. We’ll talk about following your dreams and being strong and courageous,” Weisser says. “Whatever it is, it could be small or large, you still can accomplish it, even though other people are telling you, ‘No, you can’t do this.’ You can

do it. You just need to set your hopes and dreams and keep striving.”

Spunky is available to attend your next social function! Reach out to Weisser about his schedule or to learn about her self-publishing adventure by emailing her at melissa. weisser1@gmail.com. Follow Spunky’s story on social media on Facebook and Instagram. Spunky the Little Horse can be purchased at Amazon.com/Spunky-LittleHorse-Dream-Catcher.

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IN SESSION COLUMBIA ELEMENTARY PRESCHOOL HELPS PREPARE YOUNGSTERS FOR THE ROAD AHEAD accustomed to spending a full day in an educational setting.

Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided

Kindergarten is an incredible year for most children. It is a time of discovery, meeting new friends, playing with special toys they don’t have at home, and listening to books read by teachers. However, it can also be a difficult transition for children who aren’t

Children who spend a year in preschool often find the transition easier.

“All kindergartens are now full-day programs,” says Ashley DuBois, a preschool

teacher at Columbia Elementary School.

“That’s a long day, and if a student is only used to a few hours a couple days a week at preschool, building their stamina for being at school the entire day is important.”

As a part of the Rochester School Corporation, the preschool was started in 2018 to give 4- and 5-year-olds a chance to enjoy a fun, interactive environment while preparing to enter the school system.

The preschool was developed because kindergarten teachers noticed a distinction between the kids who went to preschool

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and those who didn’t. Those who had gone were advanced in fine motor skills and already had the stamina to handle the full school day.

Elementary. The idea for the preschool was approved and a group of teachers began mapping out a curriculum.

In the preschool wing there are three classrooms, each of which have 18 kids.

A normal day begins at 8:30 a.m., with a before-school care option available for those who need to be dropped off early.

Once in the classroom, students learn

“We expressed those concerns to our principal and he passed it on to our superintendent,” says Jenny Keller, one of the preschool teachers and a former kindergarten teacher at Columbia

foundational principles, like the basics in math, language arts and the calendar. They also have special classes for music, gym, art and others.

Every Friday, the teachers take turns going into each other’s classrooms to lead an interactive activity related to science, technology, engineering and math.

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educational and memorable, like pumpkin volcanoes.

After spending time in core subjects, the various classes take turns in the stations room, which is a room with individual areas where children can enjoy educational activities that help them develop intellectually and socially, as well as strengthen their fine motor skills. These

stations include a sensory table, art easels, stations for puzzles and blocks, and a large play kitchen area with realistic cookware and utensils.

The sensory table is a favorite for many children.

“It’s about using all five senses,” DuBois says.

There is also an area for child-safe woodworking, with real wood and simple tools to help the children develop finer motor skills.

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“We tend to use rice, but we may add some cinnamon oil or cinnamon pine cones, and throw in some real pine twigs that they can feel, smell and see.”

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The activities used in the classrooms and station room involve many activities that help the kids learn without realizing it.

“It’s student-led learning,” DuBois says.

“When they go to stations, they learn while they’re there, but we’re not directly instructing. Between the three of us, we have 50 years of experience, so we use a collaboration of what we know works.”

It’s a collaboration that has yielded great results, which makes it a highly rewarding program for the three teachers involved.

“They’re problem solving on their own, independently,” DuBois says.

“My favorite part is just watching the moment when the kids get the concept - the aha moment and the joy when they finally master something,” says Stacia Conrad, the third teacher involved in the program.

In some respects, the preschool is its own little community, formed around helping children learn life skills. On a daily basis, the kids come into an environment where they have to practice everything from zipping up their own coat to positive ways of interacting with peers.

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As the teachers have discovered throughout the last few years, its an independence that supports them throughout their early education.

Columbia Elementary’s preschool will open enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year in January. The school is located at 1502 Elm Street in Rochester. For more info, call 574-223-2501 or visit columbia. zebras.net.

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TAKE YOUR HOLIDAY COOKIE TRADITIONS TO THE NEXT LEVEL Writer & Photographer / Abigail Hake

What is it about the holidays that just screams cookies? Can you imagine the holidays without thinking about all the different cookies out there at the same time? They go hand in hand.

There’s no holiday without them. By the time you have gone to holiday parties, visited family, participated in a cookie swap, or just decided to leave some out for Santa, you’ve made your fair share and have probably eaten quite a few too.

Making holiday cookies each year is a great family tradition for lots of people. Many people put this on their holiday or

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winter bucket lists. One of the best parts of this tradition is that if you do it as a family, you can watch the kids grow into their roles more and more each year. Traditions don’t have to be complicated. Actually, it’s better if some traditions are simple so they can easily be replicated year after year. There are so many cookies out there to choose from that baking together each year can be exactly the same or completely different.

The good news is that holiday cookies don’t have to be fancy.

The best part about baking around the holidays is that the cookies are homemade and baked with love. That said, for the cookies to turn out good enough to share with friends and

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THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 17

family without embarrassment, you do need the right supplies and recipes.

Our favorite cookies to make around the holidays are classic, decorated sugar cookies. These are the perfect cookies to make with the kiddos because they are fairly simple and, obviously, sweet. Did you know that sugar cookies have been around since the mid 1700s? They are believed to have been created by German Protestant settlers in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and were originally known as Nazareth cookies.

We also like making chocolate chip cookies (which date back to 1938) and gingerbread cookies (which date back to Queen Elizabeth I during the 16th century), but it’s always fun to add in some new recipes. The holiday baking tradition continues this year as we will be in the kitchen taking on typical cutout sugar cookies, and trying some new ones like Santa’s trash cookies and holiday fudge.

With so many easy sugar cookie recipes out there, here’s a different type of cookie recipe to try by yourself or with your loved ones. These Santa’s trash cookies have plenty of flavor to satisfy salty and sweet cravings. Can you really pass up cookies with potato chips in them?

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SANTA’S TRASH COOKIES What you’ll need: • 14 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature • ½ cup granulated sugar • ½ cup brown sugar • 1 large egg • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda (make sure it’s not expired) • ¼ teaspoon salt • ⅓ cup crushed potato chips • ⅓ cup crushed pretzels • ½ cup mini white chocolate Reese’s Cups • ½ cup mini chocolate Reese’s Cups • ⅓ cup milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips • ½ cup M&M’s (I used red, green and blue) • ⅓ cup white chocolate chips • ¼ cup sprinkles of choice • Sprinkles of flaky sea salt for tops of cookies

into the oven, sprinkle lightly with sea salt. If you’d like, you can add additional pretzels, chips, candies and sprinkles to the tops of the cookies for a little extra pizzazz. If you prefer the cookies to be thicker, don’t press down as much.

Bake until the edges are just starting to get golden, usually about seven to eight minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool two to three minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Happy holidays from our kitchen to yours!

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Next, in a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda and salt together until they are combined, then set aside.

With a mixer, cream the butter and sugars together in a large bowl until light and fluffy, usually about one to three minutes. Once the mixture turns pale yellow and has a light fluffy texture, it’s done. Make sure to not over-cream the mixture. Then, beat in an egg until it’s combined.

Next, add in the dry ingredients with the wet until they are combined.

It will be very thick. After that’s combined, add in the pretzels, potato chips, M&M’s, Reese’s Cups, chocolate chips and sprinkles, and mix together gently.

Using a cookie scoop, scoop your dough balls onto your sheets with parchment paper and slightly press them down. Before putting THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 19

PAMPER YOURSELF WOODHOUSE DAY SPA IS THE PERFECT SPOT TO RELAX

20 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

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There are days that everyone wishes they could quit being an adult. Bills need to be paid, the laundry keeps piling up, the boss expects you to show up at work, and the kids need everything from attention to help with homework to transportation to tonight’s extracurricular activity. As if all that wasn’t enough, there are enough worrisome current events to keep everyone on edge.

Taking time to relax and find balance is important at any time. It’s even more so when life becomes chaotic. For Anastasia Tapper, providing a place of serenity to help people unwind has become a primary goal for her business, Woodhouse Day Spa in Granger.

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the opportunity arose to open Woodhouse, a franchise that is known as one of the best day spas in the country, she decided to take it.

Lead massage therapist, Julia Rubio, also sees working at Woodhouse as a fulfilling way to help others take a break from the daily grind. “I have the opportunity to do what I love to do,” she explains.

“I do what I can to give people the full experience of either relaxation—if that’s what they’re looking for—or therapeutic help to ease pain and discomfort.”

The Woodhouse experience begins as soon as a client walks through the door.

“What makes us different from all the other spas is the atmosphere when you walk into the spa.

Tapper has always had a dream of having her own It’s the relaxing music, it’s the smell and sound of business. the spa,” Tapper says. “So the immediate feel of comfort and relaxation just wraps you up from “I had an idea of something beautiful, catering the first step.” to women and catering to people to make them happy,” she says. “I’ve always wanted to do that, The customer is escorted to a changing and just give this feeling where they leave the room where she is given a soft bathrobe and place and they feel happy and relaxed.” When comfortable slippers. She is then taken to the

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Woodhouse offers more than 70 services.

Some are standard massages, like Swedish, deep tissue and therapeutic stone massages, whereas others, like their full body wraps, soaks, and scrubs, are more exclusive.

They also offer nearly 20 facial treatments, including derma-planing and their everpopular and technologically advanced HydraFacial Deluxe. This treatment pairs a combination of products that have exfoliating and antioxidant factors with anti-inflammatory LED therapy.

Relaxation Room to wait until her masseuse is ready for her. While there, she can enjoy complimentary chocolates and tea, which are available in the retail section to take home.

“Those make phenomenal gifts for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or anything,” Tapper suggests. Also available in the Relaxation Room are alcoholic beverages, like champagne and mimosa.

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Manicures and pedicures are also on the menu. One of their most popular is their Luxury Hand and Foot Retreat. This treatment includes exfoliation, massage, and aroma therapy for a full rejuvenating experience.

Another service is the Lazy Day Renewal Ritual. The client spends a half-hour in a relaxing, detoxifying bath followed by a

Swedish massage. “It’s one of the best relaxing services I believe we have,” Tapper says.

The products used in the massage rooms, as well as select lines of jewelry, chocolates, pillow sprays, and more are available to purchase. Each and every one is offered to the customer to take a taste of Woodhouse home.

“We have created an amazing, beautiful spa. It’s clean, it’s gorgeous,” Tapper says.

“We have high-end retail products we work with.”

These exclusive products literally come from around the world. Phytomer comes from France and Babor comes from Germany. They also use Skin Ceuticals, Farmhouse Fresh, and Sonoma Lavendar, all which is American made.

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Whether a customer is coming in for a mani and pedi or a full body soak and wrap, the staff at Woodhouse desires to create an unforgettable experience.

“It’s not always about the services. It’s the experience. It’s the whole package you get here at the Woodhouse, from the moment you enter,” Tapper says.

Visit Woodhouse Day Spa at 1012 E. University Dr., Granger. To schedule your appointment, call them at 574-8938038.

Their website is granger. woodhousedayspa.com. To keep informed about their newest services, follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

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

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A Taste for the Best NEW KITCHEN STORE KEEPS THINGS SPICY Writer / Angela Cornell Photographer / Tony Straw

The last two years have been difficult for many of us. Small businesses have been hit especially hard. Unfortunately, many have had to close their doors for good. Those who still open their store every day and greet every guest with a smile are extremely grateful to the faithful customers who have made it possible.

New Kitchen Store in Walkerton is no exception. This specialty shop has almost any kitchen or dining room item a home could need, as well as several gourmet foods, making this an excellent stop for the Christmas gift list. That’s true whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift for that special

friend or that tricky relative who is always difficult to buy for.

When Phyllis Wille and her husband Chuck went into business more than 30 years ago, their attention was on selling antiques.

Kitchenware wasn’t even on the radar.

“In 1987 my husband was going to a lot of auctions, and we ended up having to find a way to get rid of some of the merchandise,” Wille says with a chuckle.

As someone who has always loved history, Wille enjoyed studying the different items that her husband brought home. The pastime quickly flamed into a passion, which led to selling antiques in downtown Walkerton.

Dinnerware became a particular delight for them. They especially loved matching designs for those who wanted to replace broken plates or bowls from heirloom collections.

Then they discovered that some older dinnerware shouldn’t be used, because it can contain harmful bacteria and viruses in microscopic cracks in the veneer.

“That caused me to start looking for dinnerware that does the same types of things that the old did,” Wille says.

That search started the Willes down a path to learn more about food in general. By the time they opened their new store, exclusively for dinnerware and cookware, they had

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 25

“WE TAKE A LOT OF CUSTOMER INPUT INTO CONSIDERATION. IF A CUSTOMER HIGHLY RECOMMENDS SOMETHING, WE WILL ORDER ONE TO TRY. THE EMPLOYEES WILL TRY THE ITEM, AND IF ALL GOES WELL, THEN WE WILL ORDER IT AND PUT IT ON THE SHELVES.” - PHYLLIS WILLE discovered more about health-conscious living than they ever expected. Soon after opening in 2006, they took their customers’ suggestions and broadened their inventory to include gourmet foods, high-end coffees, teas, spices and oils.

The more they learned, the more they wanted to provide the healthiest and most sustainable options. Today, customers from Walkerton and surrounding areas know New Kitchen Store for just that.

“We have regular customers that depend on us for their coffee, tea and spices,” Wille says. “We have customers who come in looking for a unique gift, knowing they will find it here. Many first-time customers remark that they can’t believe such a treasure can be found in such a small town.”

Through the years they have served several generations of customers.

“The children who came in with their parents years ago are now coming in and bringing their own children,” Wille says.

Wille has always felt strongly about being an asset to her beloved hometown. Every spring, summer and early fall, New Kitchen Store hosts a farmers market on Thursdays in the parking lot. She is also involved in philanthropy, contributing to local organizations like 4-H and other nonprofit groups.

New Kitchen Store is especially known for top-quality spices. Each one comes from its native land, whether that’s nutmeg and mace from the Spice Islands, red sea salt from Hawaii, mustard seeds from the 26 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

Chuck, Phyllis & staff

574-586-2745 | NewKitchenStore.com | 330 Liberty Street Walkerton, IN 46574 Himalayas, or anise stars from China. They also have a variety of spice blends, from all-purpose steak rubs to specialty blends like herbes de provence and Chinese fivespice powder.

Wille is always looking for high-quality products to sell in her store.

“We take a lot of customer input into consideration,” she says. “If a customer highly recommends something, we will order one to try. The employees will try the item, and if all goes well, then we will order it and put it on the shelves.”

Thanks to her quest for the best, some of the products she offers come from across the world, Like Garnier-Thiebaut linens from France, Alessi teapots from the United Kingdom and WÜSTHOF knives from Germany.

Many of their products are made in the U.S., like 360 Cookware, Lodge cast iron, Nora Fleming decorative dinnerware, Black Rifle Coffee Company, Certified International tableware and more.

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 27

They also carry some smaller kitchen appliances like air fryers, stovetop meat smokers, blenders, multi-cookers and induction cooktops.

“We carry a wide variety of middle- to highend products, and almost everything is from country of origin,” Wille says.

Not only does the store offer a collection of the best kitchenware, but it also offers kitchen and dining room decor that is tastefully eye catching for any situation or season.

“I use several criteria in ordering dinnerware,” Wille says. “What is on trend? Is it made of safe materials? Is it fun to use and look at? If the answer is yes to all of those questions, then I will order the pattern.”

New Kitchen Store continues to wow new and returning customers alike.

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“We have clientele from all walks of life and from a wide range of the surrounding area,” Wille says. “People who love to cook, those who have loved ones who love to cook, those who are wanting to learn to cook - they are all customers that we see on a daily basis.”

In the past year, the community surrounding New Kitchen Store has meant more than ever to Wille.

“Our customers are our friends,” she says.

“They send us get-well cards and give us the

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New Kitchen Store is located at 330 Liberty Street in Walkerton. For more information, visit newkitchenstore.com or call 574-586-2745.

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Potter’s Family Tree Farm CELEBRATES 3O TH ANNIVERSARY Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 31

or many families, a trip to a Christmas tree farm and the hunt for that perfect tree is a treasured holiday tradition. For the Potter family in Fulton County, helping families find that tree is not only their business, but their passion as well. They operate Potter’s “The Family Tree” Christmas Tree Farm in Akron.

Patriarch Brian Potter planted the first trees on his 20-acre property in 1991.

“Tree farming has been a secondary job,” Potter says. “I graduated from Purdue with a horticulture bachelor of science degree, and worked at a nursery through high school and college.”

His daughter, Laurel Whetstone, says the decision to start a tree farm was an economical one. It has always been a family-run business, with grandparents,

parents, children and grandchildren helping throughout the year, especially during the holiday sale season.

“Dad started planting the trees in 1991 as a way to save money for college for my sisters and me,” Whetstone says. “My husband Scott and I then started planting trees in 2010 to save money for our boys.”

The farm is all about family. At least four generations are involved in the tree farm, from helping with the care of the crop to being on hand for the holiday season.

“Dad has always kept everything going smoothly, even before each of us were old enough to know how to help,” Whetstone says. “He is the glue that holds us all together and is knowledgeable about every part of the tree farm. He has taught all of us everything we know.”

At 89, Whetstone’s grandmother Sherrill,

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her mother Debbie’s mother, makes bows for wreaths. Debbie Potter contributes to the bow-making process and provides meals when the tree farm is open, brewing up hot apple cider for the customers. Whetstone’s brother-in-law, Zac Kelly, handles social media, and is the first Potter family relation that customers see when arriving at the farm.

Whetstone’s sister, Heather Kelly, is the

main cashier who interacts with most of the customers.

The Kelly children - Ben, 18, Will, 14, and Claire, 12 - help as well. They are tasked with explaining the process, as well as shaking and netting the trees. Also lending a hand is Ashley Potter, the youngest daughter, with her children, Oliver, 15, Karson, 12, and Piper, 3.

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“My husband Scott and I also handle all the greenery items and manage the gift shop,” Whetstone says. “Our boys, Isaac, 15, Tucker, 12, and Wyatt, 10, help with what is needed. Isaac especially loves helping if farm equipment is being used to spread mulch around the trees in the summer or get firewood for grandpa.”

It’s not the kind of business from which the owners reap the rewards immediately. It takes years for the saplings to grow into sellable trees. For the fir and spruce variety that time is eight to 10 years, and for pine trees a minimum of six years is needed.

“We plant around 500 to 2,500 trees in the spring depending on how much room we have to plant new trees,” Whetstone says.

“The trees are two to three years old when we purchase them and plant them.”

A tree farm is, after all, a farm, which means that the crop must be taken care of all year long. From planting new trees to managing weeds, sheering the trees in the summer, fertilizing the trees and mowing, there are enough chores to keep the family busy.

Greenery is harvested from damaged trees that cannot be sold, and is used to make grave pillows, wreaths, swags and centerpieces for sale in the gift shop. The shelves in the gift shop also need to be stocked with holidaythemed merchandise before the tree farm opens in mid November.

That’s when things get busy. The public comes out to look over the selection, cut down their

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trees and take them home to decorate for the holidays. The Potter family is on-site to help with tips about the various trees, and provide tools and muscle for the process.

“Each tree is unique in the way it grows and fills in, so that allows everyone to have a tree that fits their preference and style,” Whetstone explains. “We make sure each summer that each tree has a leader as close to the center of the treetop as we can. Sometimes birds or deer break off the leader that would have worked best, so we choose a different leader to hopefully take over.”

One customer liked the story of a tree that was damaged from deer rubbing their antlers on it and chose that imperfect tree, Whetstone says.

Some trees have soft needles, such as white pine and Frasier firs. Others have firmer needles, such as the Scotch pine, concolor fir or Norway spruce varieties.

“People may choose their tree based on how heavy their ornaments are or what type of tree they prefer,” Whetstone says.

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The family atmosphere extends to those who visit as well. Games and a child-sized selfie spot are set up for children, and everyone visiting can enjoy complimentary peanuts to enjoy with their cider.

Last year was one of the busiest in the tree farm’s history, Potter says. The family is hoping this year will be busy too, and feels there are plenty of worthy trees to be selected and cut by families.

Working with family and friends and seeing repeat customers every year are the rewards the Potter family members receive from the business.

“Working with family is my favorite part,” Potter says. “Standing back watching my daughters, sons-in-law and grandkids working hard with little or no instruction from grandpa is fun.”

The farm is located at 2497 South 925 East in Akron. For more information, call 574-505-1306 or visit facebook.com/ PottersTheFamilyTreeFarm. Potter’s only accepts cash or local checks.

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REALLY SMOKIN’ Flavor is Never in Short Supply at Old Hoosier Meats Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 37

O

ld Hoosier Meats in Middlebury is a northern Indiana gem. It’s a bit out of the way for some, but the staff ’s old-fashioned way of preparing smoked and fresh-cut meats makes it well worth the drive. Owned by Randy Grewe, the establishment is truly old school, right down to the building it’s housed in.

“It was built in 1923 as a stand-alone high school gym,” Grewe says. “When Middlebury School, which had its own gym, was built in 1938, this building sat empty for a while. Then in the mid ‘40s it became a cold-storage facility that also had a storefront. Not everyone had a freezer in their home, and people could rent lockers and freezer drawers.”

Back then, the business maintained a separate site where meat was processed.

Bulk quantities such as quarters and sides were sold in the building’s retail space.

Through the years the clientele dwindled

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down, and the need for freezer space diminished.

“Nowadays there is a pole barn about every country mile with freezers in it,” Grewe says. “It’s a lot easier for people to use these than hitch up and come into town. I knew the guy that owned the place and felt like I could do something with it when I bought it 17 years ago in 2004.”

When Grewe purchased the business, the freezer facility still had some customers but the equipment needed updating. He considered the cost of repairs versus customer volume, and decided to discontinue the service.

Instead he focused on butchering fresh cuts of meat and operating the smokehouse inside the building.

“The smokehouse is not stainless-steel walls with programmed temperature,” Grewe says. “It’s got 70 years of flavors in the block walls. There is real fire where the smoke goes through and we do it the old way by hand-feeding the fire. We make the decisions about how much wood to put on it. We use sassafras, which is kind of uncommon, but it gives a sweeter flavor. It’s very Indiana and grows on its own. Farmers don’t want it and they are glad to give it to us.”

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Grewe acquired the original 1940s recipes from the prior owner. Within the 6’x12’ smoker structure, barbecued ribs, bacon from pork bellies, brisket, pulled pork and even beef jerky are produced the same way they’ve been made for 70 years.

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The jerky is actually made from specially seasoned strips of meat, not molded and pressed together from ground beef. One popular side dish offered is smoked mac and cheese. It’s placed underneath the ribs so all the drippings fall into the pan.

The cowboy beans include chorizo and Daddy Sam’s BBQ Sauce.

“Daddy Sam’s has the best ginger and jalapeño barbecue sauce I’ve ever seen,” Grewe says. “We buy it directly from THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 39

them and sell it with our shelf staple items like unique craft sodas and brews, seasoning blends, candies, jams and soup mixes. In the fresh case we have high-end Boar’s Head sliced cheese and we do many special orders such as 2”-thick cut steaks. We also make our own specialty brats such as Hawaiian with pineapple, and jalapeño cheese beef sticks, in-house.”

For the holidays, customers can preorder smoked turkeys at $4.79 per pound, or old-country-style hams with a sugar and salt cure at $4.29. Even though 60 can fit in the smoker at a time, there is a limited amount so it’s best to call ahead.

Many people order gift boxes or steaks, especially for workers in the recreational vehicle industry or family members who have moved away and miss the special beef jerky. Grewe and his staff put together meat and cheese trays as well. Gift certificates are another option, allowing recipients to pick out exactly what they want.

“We smoke ribs pretty much every Thursday,” Grewe says. “They are made with a dry rub and sold fully cooked. The just need to be reheated to eating temperature and can be an appetizer or a side dish. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday we have pulled pork in half-pound containers. People come in and grab a couple pounds and some sides for dinner. Our products are unique and you won’t find them in big-box stores. We can put together custom gift boxes. The customer tells us what they are looking to spend and what kind of product.”

Old Hoosier Meats is located at 101 Wayne Street in Middlebury. Call them at 574-825-2940, or visit their website at oldhoosiermeats.com.

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Just in Case Foundation NONPROFIT RAISES FUNDS AND AWARENESS FOR SIDS

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March 23, 2021, is a special day for Kayla Borton. It was the day that her twin boys, Chase and Case, were born. They were healthy and the doctors released them to go home with all positive reports.

May 12, 2021, is another momentous date, but one that has left a deep and abiding scar. Borton put the babies down for a nap around 10 a.m. Three hours later when she checked on them, Case

had passed away from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

After the death of their son, Borton and her husband discovered that their boys had been at risk for SIDS - a fact no one told her until after it was too late.

“I don’t drink, I don’t smoke and I don’t do drugs,” she says. “I wouldn’t even drink caffeine when I was pregnant because I was worried about the adverse effects of it on my babies. We practiced safe sleep, and I still lost my child to SIDS. I did everything I could to prevent it.”

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are approximately 3,400 sudden unexpected infant deaths every year in the U.S. Some babies are statistically more high-risk than others, including those born before 38 weeks, twins and multiples, those with mothers who participate in drugs, alcohol or smoking while pregnant, babies who live with a smoker, those with certain birth defects, and boys. The more factors a child has, the more at risk he or she is.

Borton learned about Owlet Smart Socks the day after her son died when her best friend purchased one for Chase. These socks, which comfortably wrap around a baby’s foot, monitor a baby’s oxygen levels and heart rate. Unfortunately they can’t stop SIDS from occurring, but can notify the parents if something isn’t right so they can take the proper steps.

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future, and that’s what I do through this foundation. I don’t want anyone to feel this pain of losing their child, especially when it could be prevented.”

Borton started the Just In Case Foundation, naming it after her son.

“I purchase Owlet Socks and I give them to infants born in a higher risk for SIDS,” she explains.

“We also try to spread awareness for SIDS and tell them it can happen to anyone.”

Since starting her 501(c)(3) foundation the end of May, Borton has given away more than 200 Owlet Socks, with 100 names on a waiting list.

Ultimately Borton would like to see a decrease of SIDS deaths across the nation. On a local level, she would like to raise awareness of SIDS and the Owlet capabilities. One way that Borton has been doing this is by hosting fundraisers in Starke County, including benefit dinners and brewery tours. All of the money raised is funneled back into the foundation to buy more Owlet Socks. Donations can also be given on the official website.

“Without donors, my foundation can’t help anyone,” she says.

Another way she helps is through educational material. Borton

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has a couple of brochures that discuss SIDS and are free to anyone, especially family doctors.

infant isn’t breathing, but it does you no good if you don’t know how to [perform CPR] in that time of need.”

Eventually, she would also like to offer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes to parents.

To apply for an Owlet Sock or make a tax-deductible donation to the Just in Case Foundation, check out justincasefoundation.com.

Anyone interested in more information about the Owlet Smart Sock or SIDS can reach out to Borton by calling 574-298-0016 or emailing justincasefoundation@gmail.com.

“I think it’s important for parents to know how to administer CPR just in case they need it,” she says. “The Owlet notifies you if your

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LET’S DISH DISHES CAN BE BOTH FESTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL Writer / Carmen Mills Photography Provided

We all have to cook from time to time, whether it’s for fun or necessity. I personally have done it to feed my family, but after several years I found myself getting burned out. It seemed like I generally made the same boring menu week after week. Then it got to the point where I just didn’t want to cook at all, but still did. I had also started using practical plastic dishes because I had young children at the time, so on top of being bored with cooking, there was no excitement in setting the table for dinners. Since I wasn’t concerned about the way the table looked, it was easy to let everyone eat in front of the TV on the couch.

Put this all together and what do you think happens? Well, you stop eating as a family, catching up on the events of the day. Then, that moves into watching television and eating in the living room. I am by no means saying that eating in the living room is bad. It just seemed like my family was losing touch with each other due to lack of conversation. It seems to spiral from one problem into another.

There is a store in our town that I had never been to - New Kitchen Store in Walkerton. I had driven by it several times but never stopped in. On this particular cold winter day I thought, “Let’s take a look to see what this place has to offer.”

To my surprise, I couldn’t believe what I saw. There were beautiful dishes displayed in seasonal settings, different kinds of Christmas settings, cardinals, snowmen, and on and on.

The next display was Valentine-inspired with a touch of snowflakes. They even had Saint Patrick’s Day colors, followed

by Easter. My mind was reeling with visions of how my family meals could look and feel if I were to implement a few of these pieces on my dining room table. For the first time in a long time, I started to feel excited about the idea of setting a beautiful table for my family.

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There was one particular dinner pattern I quickly fell in love with (yes I know - falling in love with dishes when I didn’t even like to cook that much). I didn’t buy the whole set at one time, but rather slowly bought different pieces week by week until I had the entire set. In the meantime I was looking up new recipes I could serve once I had the dinnerware.

When I finally had enough pieces to put on the table, my attitude towards cooking had dramatically changed. By then my family was starting to notice. My daughters even wanted to know if they could help out with preparing some of the meals or setting the table. We were starting to have fun and looked forward to eating together as a family. To this day my kids expect me to use the Christmas set during the holidays.

It’s really hard to believe that a set of new dishes could have changed how I look at entertaining my family. I’m still not the best cook but at least I make an effort. I use the same set to decorate for the Holidays. I had never thought about using dishes as decorations. It’s a creative way to make your home festive and functional all at the same time.

I still like to go back to New Kitchen Store to see what new displays they have. There’s always a fresh, different item I want try out. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find something you like too.

New Kitchen Store is the largest gourmet kitchen supply store in Michiana, located at 330 Liberty Street in Walkerton. For more information, call 574-586-2745 or visit newkitchenstore.com.

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P.J. Gilsinger & Co. A Place to Visit!

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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.

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O Christmas Tree FLICKINGER FARMS PROVIDES TREES & A FUN EXPERIENCE FOR CUSTOMERS

Farms, which started in 1894. It’s a popular destination for many people who enjoy picking out a Christmas tree for the whole family. Flickinger Farms has become an annual holiday destination for many local residents, and for people from other parts of the Hoosier state.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Andy Flickinger, co-owner of Flickinger Farms, a Christmas tree farm in Wakarusa, says his well-known business is located on land that has been in his family for years.

“We own the Christmas trees, and operate on land that has been owned by my family for over 100 years,” Flickinger says.

Flickinger still enjoys seeing his supportive customers happy with their holiday purchases. Many people tell him they like being able to take their time picking out a tree that will please the whole family.

Four generations have operated Flickinger

They also enjoy taking in the fun holiday atmosphere.

Regular customers have told their friends about Flickinger Farms, and that has helped the business grow dramatically.

“We are a choose-and-cut tree farm that allows customers to choose their own Christmas tree from our field,” Flickinger says. “It is a small farm that caters to families wanting an intimate experience in choosing their own tree.”

He says it has been that way since the business began.

“We started planting trees in 2014,” Flickinger says. “The family farm has had multiple crops and livestock over the years, but has primarily grown corn and soybeans

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over the last few decades. We decided to also plant Christmas trees because there were not many small farms in the area any longer that offered real Christmas trees, and it was an opportunity we wanted to pursue in expanding our farm.”

Flickinger Farms has a wide variety of reasonably priced trees to choose from.

The Flickinger family primarily grows Scotch pine and white pine, and also grows smaller quantities of Canaan fir, Fraser fir, Douglas fir, concolor fir, blue spruce and Norway spruce.

“We bring in larger Fraser fir precut trees to offer customers the opportunity to get those if they like,” Flickinger says.

Flickinger notes that some trees are traditional holiday favorites.

“Fraser firs are currently popular trees in the eastern part of the country,” he says. “At our

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farm, our customers like Fraser firs that are precut, and they like Scotch pine if they wish to cut down their own.”

stands, tree preservative and removal bags, as well as other decor items,” Flickinger says.

Flickinger adds that each tagged tree is individually priced, with information on tree species, height and quality. Prices range from $25 to $55 for trees in the field.

Flickinger adds that the wreaths are sturdy and hold their short, soft needles very well.

In addition to having customers cut down their own trees, Flickinger Farms offers photo opportunities, tree stands, lights, Christmas items, hay rides and free hot chocolate. The Flickinger family also rents out the farm to local photographers throughout the year for family photo sessions. Many families have also made this another festive holiday tradition.

Flickinger says family pets are also allowed to participate in the holiday fun, but must be kept on leashes.

The Flickinger Farms gift and wreath shop is also highly popular, especially during the holidays.

“We offer fresh, live wreaths, and tree accessories such as tree

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Flickinger Farms is open for business right in time for the holidays.

“We open the day after Thanksgiving at 9 a.m., and are open each weekend as inventory allows,” Flickinger says. “We’re open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. This year we will also be open on Fridays from noon to 5 p.m. as staffing allows.”

Being a small farm, Flickinger Farms does have limitations on inventory and varieties.

“In order to keep enough trees in future years, we need to constantly monitor the number of trees we can harvest each year,” Flickinger says. “However, we feel we offer a local option that many people in our community enjoy, and we appreciate them for it.”

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Flickinger Farms is located at 30210 County Road 40 in Wakarusa.

For more info, call 574-850-1471, email flickingerfarms@yahoo. com, or check out flickingerfarms.com.

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SERVICE TO OTHERS

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT ALLOWS STUDENTS TO STEP UP FOR THE COMMUNITY

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

Lincoln Junior High School students are learning more than normal classroom studies. An innovative program is also currently teaching important lessons about compassion, caring and making a difference to others in the community.

Lincoln Leads began this year when leaders set up five events to engage student volunteers with people in the community.

Students on the leadership team help organize and mobilize for the projects, says

Assistant Principal Jake Singleton.

“We wanted to find a way to get more involvement with the community, not only to give back, but to show we support the community,” Singleton says.

“The whole community got involved.”

“It was a good thing for the community to see us do,” adds Reid Barger, a seventh grader at Lincoln. “Once we finished the car, people would say thank you. I was The first event was a car wash to raise money appreciative of the thanks.” to help a local family that suffered a house fire. The September 18 event raised more The remaining events for the school year money than was expected, and students are varied, and five projects are schedule for were excited and happy to have lent a hand this year. Activities are designed to coincide according to Singleton. with the seasons and address needs for particular times of the year, Singleton says.

“It felt good,” remarks Eliana Gifford, an For example, in November students raked eighth grader and Lincoln Leads student. leaves for residents near the school who

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need assistance with this seasonal task.

On December 4, Christmas trees will be delivered to elderly people in the community and those who may be homebound. Community fitness day at Lincoln Junior High School on February 19 will open school facilities to the public for yoga classes, as well as access to the fitness room, the basketball, pickleball and badminton courts, and the indoor walking track. The last project of the current school year, on April 9, will be a community cleanup day at parks and neighborhoods near the school.

The student leadership team is hands-on when it comes to planning the projects.

Students are learning about the behind-thescenes work that goes into getting the word out about an event, recruiting student and parent volunteers, and making arrangements to get volunteers to the project location.

Singleton says the school uses its own resources, such as the school district

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minibus, to get students to event locations.

Staff members also assist at the project sites.

Parents have helped by bringing supplies to events.

students are learning about helping others and giving back are as important as the science, technology, engineering and math skills they learn in the classroom.

For some of the students involved, their willingness to do for others started at home.

Barger says his mother signed him up to help with projects such as donating food to food banks. Gifford’s great-grandfather worked at Ancilla College and always supported a local family during the holidays.

“We want to give kids the best experience,” he says. “We want them to learn about having empathy and gratitude for what they have. The best way to build those is to have these experiences.”

someone else’s day or life,” Gifford says.

The life lessons that come from experiences like these can build bonds between students and residents in the community, Singleton says.

“Middle school is tough these days,” he says. “This is a chance for the community to know we have great kids here.”

Participation in the projects is open to all students.

“Helping others shows that even though everything in your life might be great, not everyone has the stuff you have,” Gifford says.

For the students, giving to others benefits them as well.

People don’t always ask for help, Singleton says. When students reach out, they touch people’s lives.

“I feel like I did something good and I’ve helped out other people,” Barger says.

In Singleton’s opinion, the lessons his

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CLUB CULTURE HESTON SUPPER CLUB TURNS 40 Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer / Jubilee Edgell THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 61

part of the community since the 1920s.

Four decades later, the Ohlunds continue to serve hearty meals, generous portions and friendly service to their regular customers and new friends.

S

upper clubs are a Great Lakes tradition dating back to the 1930s.

These dining establishments are usually designed to serve dinner only, in a welcoming environment. The typical supper club menu is centered on meat and potatoes, with tasty food and excellent service. Tim and Jackie Ohlund, the owners of Heston Supper Club and the Heston Hills Event Center in LaPorte, are carrying on that legacy and creating traditions of their own.

Tim Ohlund is happy that families have made his restaurant part of their family celebrations, with generations celebrating milestones. The appeal for these family gatherings is the predictability that comes with the Ohlunds’ standards at Heston Supper Club.

“They know what they are going to get,” Ohlund says. “There is no change in meals, in menus - there’s nothing eclectic.”

And what customers get is dry-aged beef that is hand cut on-site, as well as pork chops, ribs and house-smoked barbecue, seafood, and frog legs. Sauces for all dishes are made in-house to strict standards. The In 1982 the Ohlunds purchased the former lake perch comes straight from the Great Heston Bar, the building for which had been Lakes, and desserts are made in-house

by Jackie or under her supervision. There are no burgers on the menu and no pasta dishes, but prime rib, a house specialty, is served daily.

“We want our Supper Club patrons to have the best we are able to offer,” Ohlund says.

“Fresh is always the best and we buy local when available.”

That promise is reflected in the awards Heston Supper Club has received through the years. These include the Best of Beef award from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and an Award of Excellence

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“You just continue to do what you do, day in and day out, but you can’t just rest on your laurels,” Ohlund says.

When guests arrive for supper and are seated in one of the four dining areas, they are first served Heston Supper Club’s famous cheese spread and crackers. It is another nod back to the origins of supper clubs, and the Ohlunds’ special touch. It is also for sale in the restaurant and in local stores.

“I’ve heard people tell me, ‘I always have your cheese in my refrigerator,’” Ohlund says.

At the end of their meal guests can enjoy some of the desserts, such as Jackie’s chocolate mousse, bread pudding and cheesecakes, all of which are made inhouse.

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Supper Club diners want good food, Ohlund says, but they also want the warmth of the surroundings to make them feel welcomed. Some rooms have fireplaces, and others a garden-like view out the windows with leafy evergreens and ambient outdoor lighting.

Another of Ohlund’s secrets to success is the longevity of his staff.

At the Heston Hills Event Center, people can expect the same standards, Ohlund says. It has been open for about 20 years and is a direct extension of the Supper Club. Situated on eight acres, the event center can accommodate parties of up to 350 people. The picturesque grounds offer photo opportunities for brides and grooms.

“All of my staff stay here and have been here for years,” he says, adding that reservations to dine at the Supper Club are only required for large parties. “No server is less than four years here and the others range up to 35 years. Don’t wait for a special occasion to visit. Any occasion is a good

time to come to Heston’s.”

Heston Supper Club is located at 2003 East 1000 North, and Heston Hills Event Center is located at 1933 East 800 North, in LaPorte. For more information on the Supper Club, call 219-778-2938 or visit hestonsupperclub.com. For additional details on the Event Center, call 219-7789595 or go to hestonhills.com.

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A LIVING MEMORIAL MARSHALL COUNTY IS HOME TO A UNIQUE TRIBUTE TO AREA VETERANS Writer / Jeff Kenney Photography Provided

This month - specifically December 7 marks the 80th anniversary of the bombing of the U.S. Naval Base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, a day President Franklin Roosevelt said at the time would “live in infamy” and the start of America’s involvement in World War II. A number of Lakes-area readers may not be aware that a site in Marshall County holds the distinction of being the first (and one of the only) counties to take advantage of a unique statewide program launched at wartime to honor area victims of that war, though the endeavor also became a conservation project along the way.

The Marshall County Memorial Forest on State Road 17, just a few miles north of Culver, first gained widespread, regional media attention in 1945, exemplified by an article in the Culver Citizen newspaper from May 30, 1945, reprinted from the Pulaski County Democrat newspaper of the day: “Centuries ago, men conceived the idea of honoring prominent citizens, or war heroes, by erecting monuments to their memories…the thought of honoring war

heroes has progressed still farther, even to elaborate soldiers’ and sailors’ monuments, or to plazas occupying whole city blocks.

One suggestion now being stressed by the Indiana Conservation Department is the establishment by counties of Memorial Forests.”

The article emphasized that living memorials like the forest may hold more meaning than piles of stone or metal.

In 1943, Indiana’s legislature empowered Hoosier counties to acquire land and establish forest and recreation grounds, and Marshall County would be the first to actually acquire land under that law, starting with 80 acres of sub-marginal

blow sand north of Culver, near the Yellow River.

In September of 1945, the Indianapolis Star ran a story on the endeavor that emphasized the project’s ecological significance, noting the state had, up to then, concentrated its foresting efforts in southern Indiana, but that Marshall County’s Memorial Forest could represent a valuable trend in reclaiming land decimated by earlier pioneer farming practices, which left significant tracts of previously healthy soil stripped to nutrient-drained sand.

Acclaimed Hoosier journalist Robert Kyle, who retired to Culver and published

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a regular column for years in the local newspaper, wrote a firsthand account of the genesis of the forest that was reprinted in the winter 2004 edition of the Antiquarian and Historical Society’s (AHS) quarterly newsletter, noting that “a traveling troupe of beavers was responsible” for the forest.

According to Kyle, Sam Jones, “an observant farmer living north of Burr Oak on Yellow River, reported he had seen signs of quaking aspen cut down in a small swamp across his line fence. Then Luke Duddleson, the county highway maintenance man, related in casual conversation around a tavern stove that something was plugging up a culvert that led to the river ‘faster than I can clean it out.’”

Kyle and local wildlife expert Russ Fisher visited the area and found, according to Kyle’s account, “a worthless 50-acre tract, mostly blow sand, and a sprinkling

of long-neglected apple trees to one side of a swail surrounded by second-growth black oaks, through which a small stream trickled from a spring at the back of the property.”

A small beaver dam behind the culvert maintained the problem at the site, the dam prompting hundreds of curious residents to drive by for an up-close look at the beavers. Eventually a second dam caused a sizable pond, which eventually flooded about 10 acres and raised the water level nearly 8’, according to Kyle, who called it “an engineering feat of the first magnitude, about 160’ long.”

Local County Commissioner Harry Medbourn came up with the idea of the county purchasing the land and making use of the 1943 state law, and turning the site into a recreational area - a notion supported by his fellow commissioners.

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the opposition dwindled and the county spent $1,600 to purchase the land. State forester Ted Shaw developed the plan for a “pilot” county forest, with the hope that other communities would follow the model. Eventually a countywide effort was underway involving conservationists, clubs, Boy Scouts, area farmers and others. $250 worth of trees were purchased form the Division of Forestry, and volunteers cleaned the land and helped plant around 6,000 trees per day, totaling around 22,000 trees. These were mostly red and jack pines, with a handful of Scotch and white.

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Shaw likened the work to “an old-fashioned barn raising,” said Kyle, who added that those involved hoped to create markers for the 90-plus service men from the county who gave their lives in World War II. A veterans memorial shrine Kyle refers to is no longer part of the forest, though Marshall County architectural historian Kurt Garner, who wrote about the forest in a post on his blog at hoosierhappenings. blogspot.com, suggested that an “unassuming pile of rocks” still visible at the site is likely the base to the monument planned in the forest.

The AHS newsletter updated on the forest’s story, noting that large-scale cutting of red pines, which local forester Bruce Wakeland reported had become infested with bark beetles, was undertaken in the late 2000s.

Following his recommendation, a border of pines was left around the periphery of the forest, so that its appearance from State Road 17 was unchanged.

Other species of pines not affected by the beetles were not disturbed. Some opposition to the logging was expressed by local birdwatchers, who said the forest was one of the finest places in the area to observe native birds, particularly owls that favor old stands of red pine trees.

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Hiking trails were also added to the forest to enhance the public’s access to and enjoyment of the space, and in 2017 Daniel Stauffer of Boy Scout Troop 257 led an Eagle Scout project to erect a sizable sign near the entrance to the forest to explain its history and context.

The Marshall County Memorial Forest was not the only “living” monument to deceased veterans in the Culver area. Culver Military Academy planted a number of memorial trees to honor its World War I dead, of which only a handful survive today.

Jeff Kenney serves as museum and archives manager for Culver Academies and on the board of the Antiquarian and Historical Society of Culver.

STAYING SHARP REALITY SHOW WINNER OPERATES WINAMAC-BASED FORGE BUSINESS

Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

When the opportunity to apply for a spot on a reality television series came along, Rita Thurman jumped at the chance. She did appear on a reality show and walked away a winner, but it wasn’t the show she initially applied for.

Thurman appeared in October of 2020 as a contestant on the “Forged In Fire” competition show, which pits four blacksmiths against each other for the chance to win a cash prize and bragging rights. Thurman is one of only three women to win the competition.

“I actually applied to be on the show ‘Alone,’ ” Thurman says.

Before her appearance on “Forged in Fire,” Thurman was just beginning to learn how to operate a forge and make knives. It was a skill she quickly picked up on after attending a class in Missouri. To upgrade her technique and learn the required skill for “Forged in Fire,” she relied on her father Bob Smith to help her learn the skills she needed to compete, and he is still her mentor.

She won the show by forging a Japanese barbed weapon called a sodegarami.

She had four days to craft the weapon. Thurman, a Boy Scout leader, says she was pleased to be able to compete on the show wearing her scout uniform.

Her forge, located in a former lawn and garden store and subsequent auto repair shop, carries the name Pixie Smash Forge. Thurman named it after her

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The building that houses her forge has been in the Smith family for decades. It is now stocked full of oddities, curiosities and inventory of all kinds. Her family, Thurman says, is fond of holding on to things that may be reused in some creative work later.

Smith, who has done many projects at the shop throughout the years, began blacksmithing about 15 years ago. He accumulated many of the forges and presses in the shop from auctions. When the hydraulic press is working, the clanging is a sure sign that artists are at work.

Thurman worked at Hallmark in Kansas City as an artist. Ever since she could remember, Thurman says she was always drawing.

“Drawing is the basis for everything,” she says.

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Hallmark provided employees an opportunity to take time off to explore creative opportunities. She chose to go to a living history museum where she experienced how knives were forged. She was hooked.

“Bladesmithing happened by accident,” Thurman says. “I thought it would be fun to do. [The blacksmith at the living history museum] told me what to do and I made a knife.”

After retiring from Hallmark, Thurman moved from Missouri to Winamac to work with Smith, who also forges in the back of the shop.

She is building her business there, specializing in knife making, custom fabrication, blacksmithing and other creative projects that come her way. She also does custom engraving and blade sharpening, and creates ornamental decor out of forged metal.

One recent project involved crafting a midcentury modern decorative metal frame to support a 14’ boardroom table. She has also made and repaired cast-iron railings and forged fireplace surrounds. For another project, a customer wanted her to reproduce a fire pit that had been made by his father.

Building a business that specializes in custom knives is not easy, as forgers like Thurman face competition from overseas. The difference is that she can personalize a knife for each order to reflect that customer’s personality and needs.

For those who may be interested in learning how to craft a knife, Thurman offers classes.

Gift certificates are available as gifts for those who want to try their hand at learning how to forge metal into custom knives. She recently taught 25 Boy Scouts how to weld.

Her experience on the television show was fun, she says. It has also offered her the opportunity to use her win to promote her business.

Pixie Smash Forge is active on social media with the help of Thurman’s cousin Grace Rausch. For more info, visit facebook.com/ pixiesmashforge. The forge is located at 435 North Northwest Street in Winamac.

72 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

POWER PLAY

SOLAR PROJECT RAMPS UP IN FULTON COUNT Y Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

The new Fulton County REMC solar and Tesla battery project will benefit many residents in Talma, Indiana, according to two people heavily involved in the project.

Joseph Koch, chief executive officer (CEO) of Fulton County REMC, and Jim Straeter,

founder of Ag Technologies, Inc., feel the project will provide a financial benefit for Fulton County REMC members.

of electricity, which will be used to reduce the cooperative’s usage during peak usage times.”

“The project consists of 1.2 megawatt solar array and two Tesla Megapack batteries,” Koch says. “The solar array can charge the batteries or put electricity back on the grid.

The batteries will store up to five megawatts

REMC is the ultimate user of the solar and battery project.

“Fulton County REMC is a not-for-profit rural electric cooperative,” Koch says. “All

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 73

excess funds received by the cooperatives each year are allocated back to our members.

The members of the cooperatives will be the ultimate users of the solar energy.”

Koch, who has been with Fulton County REMC for 23 years and CEO for the last 10, notes that the project was completed using several local Fulton County businesses.

“We tried to use local businesses on the project and succeeded,” Koch says. “Tesla and the panel manufacturer were the only two nonlocal businesses on the project.”

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Straeter feels the project is exciting.

“The REMC solar project is indeed new, as the solar started producing on September 11, 2021,” he says. “The battery system is fully installed, but we are waiting on meters in order to make the batteries fully operational. Solar will provide renewable energy well above the amount of energy the batteries will charge and discharge annually.”

Straeter explains that the batteries are there to peak shave, which means that when the utility demand is at its highest, and energy value is also at its highest, the batteries will discharge, thereby reducing the energy that has to be produced at a generation plant.

“It is this peak demand that challenges utilities to meet because very often the time it takes to ramp up electric production to meet demand is simply too long,” he says.

Straeter notes that solar energy is cost efficient.

“Fundamentally, solar energy is the lowestcost energy available today,” he says. “Beyond that, once a solar system is installed, the cost to run that system is essentially fixed, thereby eliminating any real inflationary possibility over time. Rising costs are a big problem, and energy costs are a major factor for business

74 / THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

and residences.”

emissions from energy produced with solar.”

Straeter is also happy the project employed so many local businesses.

Straeter adds that the project will reduce costs to Fulton County REMC members, and reduce inflation pressure.

“We used local subcontractors for the entire project,” he says. “Craig Welding is located in the county, and has built our solar stands for years. Murphy Electric did the wiring along with Ag Technologies and the REMC staff. Solar projects create jobs, and in this case a local solar project created work for local companies.”

“The batteries will save demand charges for the REMC well above the battery costs, so the net savings will flow through to members in the form of reduced electricity rates,” he says.

“The side benefits are the pollinator field we intend to pair with the solar production field, and the environmental benefit of no carbon

Straeter adds that the project will be watched closely by other REMC utility companies, and will pave a path for others to replicate what they have done.

“The beneficial impact of a more reliable grid and lower costs will be broad,” he says.

Ag Technologies has had a long association with Fulton County REMC, because they have installed solar systems at a number of REMC customers’ homes according to Straeter.

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“That association has been great,” he says.

“The Tesla battery system is a first effort for Ag Technologies and the Fulton County REMC. Tesla has been very good to work with up to this point, and once we get the meters installed, we are confident that battery management and service support by Tesla will be as promised. We anticipate that the relationship between Ag Technologies and REMC will continue positively for a long time, and that the Tesla association for both of us will be long term and mutually beneficial.”

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KOONTZ LAKE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Watch for details on the Koontz Lake Association Facebook Page.

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KLA BOARD MEETING AT THE KLA CLUBHOUSE

6:30pm – KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse. Meeting are open to the public and community support is needed! Come to a board meeting to see if you might be interested in helping!

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PEPPERMINT PARADE

3:30pm Downtown Knox. Come watch Santa and Mrs. Claus in the parade, then come down to Wythogan Park afterwards for a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Christmas Tree Lighting at 5pm. Enjoy hot chocolate and cider that will be provided. - If you want to be in the parade, call the Mayor’s office at 574-772-4553, or visit www.cityofknox. net for applications.

Be sure to register for the Cornhole Winter League and Indoor Pickleball League. Both leagues will be held at the Nancy J. Dembowski Center.

These leagues begin the first week of January, and registration ends December 23rd. Contact kswihart@cityofknox.net for more information.

For up-to-date event information, please check out the City of Knox’s Website www.cityofknox.net

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

6pm – Cooking Decorating at the Train Depot on Lake Shore Drive in Culver.

6:45pm – Community Tree Lighting outside the Train Depot 7pm – Holiday Parade from Lake Shore to Main St. 7:30pm– Christmas Caroling around town 7:30pm – Meet Santa

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THE LAKES MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com / 77

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