The Lakes of Kosciusko April 2022

FREE MONTHLY PRINT MAGAZINE WITH CORRESPONDING MOBILE APP AND SOCIAL MEDIA FEATURING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES, AND EVENTS IN AND AROUND ELKHART, LAGRANGE, NOBLE, KOSCIUSKO & STEUBEN COUNTY INDIANA + CASS, BRANCH & ST. JOSEPH COUNTY MICHIGAN

APRIL 2022

MAGAZINE

OPEN WATERS

SOCKS MARINA REPRESENTS A LOCAL LEGACY BIG HIT

Warsaw Little League Teaches Kids the Value of Teamwork FELLOWSHIP MISSIONS

Local Organization Assists Homeless in the Area

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A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

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 COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

IN THIS ISSUE

APRIL 2022

6

41

Michiana Tree Service Is a Family Endeavor

Hoffman Outdoor Power Equipment Has Your Gear Needs Covered

MAKING THE CUT

WELL-EQUIPPED

10

49

Lehman’s Variety Store Turns 25

Chautauqua-Wawasee Brings the Community Together

VARIETY INDEED

15

53

OPEN WATERS

PEDALING ON

Socks Marina Represents a Local Legacy

Bikes For Kids to Host Third Annual Bike Giveaway

20

58

WHAT A SHOW

The Goshen Theater Brings a Variety of Programming to the Area

25

Cousins Launch Primos Bar and Grill

31

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

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37

Warsaw Area Career Center Director to Retire

A TRUE TREAT

Akron Ice Cream Shoppe Serves Up Nostalgia

Yutzy’s Ammo and Optics Owner Talks Products and Services

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

REFLECTING ON LEADERSHIP

63

FAMILY FLAVOR

GUNNING FOR EXCELLENCE

REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

STEEPED IN TRADITION

68

FAITH-BASED FINANCES

Everence Puts the Client First

A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRIND

73

GET YOUR FIX

E.H. Tractor Shop Specializes in All Manner of Repairs

77

WHAT’S HAPPENING KEY CONTRIBUTORS ABBY RENZ / ANGELA CORNELL / JUBILEE EDGELL / JULIE YATES KARI LIPSCOMB / LOIS TOMASZEWSKI / MATT KEATING

MAKING THE CUT

MICHIANA TREE SERVICE IS A FAMILY ENDEAVOR Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

What started out as help for a neighborhood on a lake after a storm damaged trees and homes in 2020 is now a business that specializes in tree removal and trimming.

Brothers James and David Hochstetler, and their brother-in-law Ervin Schmucker, are the owners of Michiana Tree Service. Based in LaGrange, the three individuals have different skills and work together to complete tree removal jobs.

James is the business manager. He does the scheduling of jobs and other tasks for the business. David provides job estimates. Ervin is a skilled climber. When a job is booked all three are on hand, plus a fulltime crew member and a few part-timers.

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The Hochstetlers and Schmucker started their business last year. Prior to taking on this new business, James did some logging and construction, David was a farmer and a certified tree cutter, and Ervin worked in construction and in the wood shop at an RV factory.

They came into the business with some experience in felling trees, but James Hochstetler says there has been a learning curve for what they now do.

“We had to build up our experience,” he says.

That means making sure that obstacles are identified, such as power lines, septic lines and sprinkler system lines. When they respond to a call for service, the goal is to leave the customer’s lawn in the same, if not better, condition compared to how it was when the crew arrived.

Taking care of each job site is an important

task for Michiana Tree Service. Hochstetler says the goal is to make sure that removing the tree does not damage the lawn or the property. Cleaning up after service is as important as doing the job correctly.

The company also offers tree trimming, stump grinding and site clearing.

Michiana Tree Service answers calls for removing trees that have already fallen or present a potential danger. Some homeowners want a tree removed that has died or may endanger a building.

Sometimes a tree needs to be removed to clear the way for building additions, or to expand lawns or gardens.

Stump grinding is also offered. This technique grinds the stump down below the surface of the ground. Fill is added to the hole and seed is sowed. As the stump rots in the ground, there may be some additional maintenance and fill needed, but there will not be a visible stump above the ground.

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All work includes cleanup of the site unless specified otherwise by the owners.

“We want to leave a job site so that it looks the same as when we came, or better, without the tree there,” Hochstetler says.

For any job that Michiana Tree Service undertakes, Hochstetler says it is important to talk to the customer to be clear about their expectations.

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“I want to know what their vision is for when the job is done,” he says.

Sometimes customers want to keep a piece of the tree, and that request can be accommodated. Another brother-in-law, Orlie Bontrager, is experienced in cutting live-edge slabs.

Michiana Tree Service works mostly in an area to the east of LaGrange. Eighty percent of their work comes from requests from owners of lakefront properties.

The job begins when a customer calls and requests service. A proposal is presented that describes the scope of work, options for the job and the price. The job is then scheduled, and the crew is dispatched to the site. Driver Steve Mase is an important part of the crew, Hochstetler says. His role is to move the lift and other equipment, and transport the crew to the job site.

Although there is work to be done throughout the year, each season has its own needs. Winter is challenging because of the weather. Cleanup is often more difficult because of snow. Spring becomes busier as property owners get ready for the growing seasons. Fall is often the time of the year when property owners begin to see trees that need to be cut. Dead branches and rot are more visible when the leaves are gone and property owners want trees removed before the winter.

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VARIETY INDEED LEHMAN’S VARIETY STORE TURNS 25 Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

For almost a quarter of a century, Lehman’s Variety Store has ensured that friends and neighbors have access to necessities and more. A celebration is planned in June to thank customers for their support through the years.

The expansive store has a little bit of everything, from toys and household items to clothes, home decor and shoes. It lives up to its niche as a variety store and provides the community with a convenient location to shop.

In 1997 Richard Lehman purchased the

inventory of a store owned by a family member and moved it into an expansive new building at his home. One could say that Lehman has been involved with the business throughout his life - in fact, he says, he grew up in it. The original Lehman’s business was a harness shop established by his father near LaGrange.

Through the years the business grew from the harness shop to a variety store. When Lehman had the opportunity to purchase the business, he did so and never looked back on his job in a local recreational vehicle factory.

“I always enjoyed this,” he recalls.

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The store expanded in 2006, adding 3,000 square feet of warehouse space to the store.

More space in the warehouse means more space to stock items customers want. During the summer harvest season, that means stocking the store with jars, lids and other canning supplies.

The store houses an extensive shoe department, with children through adult sizes. Popular shoe brands include Red Wing, Wolverine, SAS and Lowa. Lehman calls it a “family shoe store,” which describes the wide selection of styles and sizes.

Shoes have always been popular with the customers, as are housewares and gifts.

Many of the items that fill the shelves

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and aisles of the store came about at the suggestions of customers. When a customer requests something, Lehman and his staff, which includes his son Loren, try to accommodate the request. It isn’t always easy but they do their best, he says.

In addition to Loren, Lehman’s wife Elva also lends a hand. The couple has been married for 13 years.

“I like the bookwork,” Elva says. “I really enjoy it.”

The majority of the store’s customer base comes from the local Amish community.

At times tourists find their way to the store, including a group of Amish folks from southern Indiana who visited the store in early March. Stopping in at local stores is something that Lehman can relate to. He

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does the same thing when he visits other areas.

Lehman’s offers much more than just items for purchase. The store’s location is convenient, fair pricing is the norm, and they are responsive to customer needs.

“We have a lot of people stop in,” he says.

Like other businesses, Lehman’s was impacted from the COVID-19 quarantines and supply-chain issues. At first customers were disappointed to not be able to get the brands they wanted. Then they adapted and asked for substitutions.

“We try to be a complete store for our community,” he says.

receive a 10% discount. Door prizes will be given away. Lehman is planning other extras to show his appreciation.

“Without our customers we wouldn’t be in business,” he says. “We want to thank our customers for shopping here. We appreciate what the community has done for us, and we appreciate the opportunity to support and to be of service to the community.”

To thank the community for their support, Lehman’s will mark 25 years in business at their location on 350 South with a three-day sale, from June 21 to 23. Customers will In the future there will be an added element

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to make the shopping experience more enjoyable. Lehman, who has been a modelrailroad hobbyist for years, is making plans to suspend one of his trains on a rail to run through the shop.

“I’ve loved trains all my life and want to share them,” he says.

Lehman’s Variety Store is located at 2825 West 350 South in LaGrange. For more information, call 260-463-7469 or visit facebook.com/lehmansvariety.

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here are few things more glorious than being out on open water. The wind seems purer, and the sun feels warmer and brighter. People also tend to act happier, almost as though it’s easier to smile when out on a boat with friends and a beverage in hand. Creating moments like this is why Socks Marina exists.

T

Socks Marina is a full-service, year-round facility that offers off-season storage.

They also have boat sales for those who are looking to buy. They offer boats from Trifecta, Viaggio and PolarKraft, as well as outboards from Mercury and Tohatsu. They also sell used watercraft.

Now in two locations, one on Webster Lake and a newly purchased marina on the Barbee chain of lakes, Socks Marina has been helping people get out on the water for more than 60 years. The Webster Lake location was originally purchased by the Coverstone family in the 1960s from Francis “Sock” Shear, and except for about

25 years around the 1980s and 1990s, it has been in the family ever since.

The current owner, Ryan Coverstone, grew up around the family business. “I was about 4 or 5 years old at that point, so I used to hang out here with my grandmother and grandfather,” Coverstone says. “My father and lot of his cousins worked here at that time.”

The Coverstone family has served generations of lake-goers through the years, and many people in their 60s and 70s have fond memories of visiting the lake via Socks Marina and bringing their children and grandchildren. So, when the opportunity came to expand into Barbee Lake, they decided to take it. “It’s pretty much located right in the middle of the Barbee chain of lakes,” Coverstone says.

The Barbee location was purchased from family friends.

“The gentleman we bought the marina from was an old classmate of my father,” Coverstone says. Throughout the years, both marinas have worked well together.

“When it was time and it was good for all of us, it happened to time out well.”

The Biesemeyer family owned that marina for generations.

“Actually, I think the other place had more continuous family ownership than Socks did,” Coverstone says.

In his mind, expanding to Barbee is a merging of two family legacies, especially since they have retained Scott Biesemeyer, the son of the previous owner, as the lead technician.

“He’s a huge part of the reason why we bought the place, because he came with it,” Coverstone says. “He’s doing a great job for us and we look forward to broadening our family from the Webster location on down

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to the Barbee location. It’s nice to have that piece of it.”

It’s taken a lot of work to get the Barbee location ready for a spring opening.

However, the Coverstones and Biesemeyers

are excited for the new season. Coverstone’s father, though retired, also comes in frequently to help out by spearheading the

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effort to clean the marina and get it ready for Coverstone recommends that those the new season. interested in purchasing watercraft, motors or even lakefront property should put their Part of merging two family legacies includes order in early. intermingling and retaining as many traditions as possible while achieving new “Most all of our manufacturers are on an goals. allotted production because their demand is so high,” he says. “We’re only going to “We’re upgrading and updating,” get so many new units this year, whether Coverstone says. “We’re not trying to forget that’s boats or engines. That’s just the way the place it was before - just a new version of it, and we hope a better one.”

it is everywhere in the country. If you find something that you like, it’s time to jump on it because the price keeps going up for us and the consumer.”

To discover more about Socks Marina, their services and the boats they have for sale, visit socksmarina.com. Call the Barbee location at 574-834-2595, or put in at the marina at 314 EMS B61 Lane in Warsaw.

Since the Barbee location is on seven lakes and sees about five times the number of people as Webster Lake, there is more opportunity to expand the Socks service area.

“All the lakes in our area are their own little community around the lake,” Coverstone says. “We are really excited to be a part of the community around the Barbee Lake.”

Already, the Socks Marina staff members have been welcomed with open arms.

Since the pandemic began, lake life has been more popular than ever.

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“We saw a huge resurgence in lake properties and lake activities,” Coverstone says. “It was good for us to see. That’s kind of the lifeblood of our business and our small communities who depend on those folks.

The demand is still there. People invested a lot of money into it, whether they decided to buy a place on the lake after visiting for years, upgraded their boat - those kinds of things.”

Coverstone predicts that the 2022 lake season will be more of the same.

“It’s going to be really busy,” he says. “There’s still a huge demand for goods and services.

People are really champing at the bit to get back out on the water. I think we’re going to see some record-breaking years in sales and service and storage. We’re doing our best to plan for those, so we can serve our customers.”

Since so many people are eagerly looking forward to getting back on the lake,

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“This last renovation was the result of a huge community campaign,” says Susan Visser, executive director. “Dedicated board members of Goshen Theater, Inc. worked on funding. The community embraced the idea of the renovation to the tune of many millions of dollars.”

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When city leaders in Goshen built a theater in 1905, the residents must have been excited and gratified that their efforts to attract the talent of the day to their beautiful venue had come to fruition. Through the years the building, now known as the Goshen Theater, served the community in several different ways.

Once again, the recently renovated structure is capturing the enthusiasm of the community as it begins yet another phase of offering both entertainment and opportunities for volunteerism.

Originally named the Jefferson Theatre after a famous actor of the

20 / THE LAKES / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

time, it was only open for one year before it burned to the ground. It consisted of five storefronts. The theater took up three, and the other two spaces housed retail businesses. One of the shops was a furniture store and it is believed that the fire started there.

By 1907 the Chicago architecture firm Patton & Miller rebuilt it. Only a few minor

alterations were made and the building once again held a stage suitable for the touring vaudeville acts of the time. The theater boasted two balconies and seated 1,100 to 1,200 people. Good times for the theater continued throughout the 1910s and 1920s.

In 1948, the theater got a new lease on life when it underwent a major renovation and became a movie palace. The second

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balcony was removed, and in its place a projection room, complete with windows, was installed. It continued as the Goshen Theater, with several ownership changes through most of the 1980s. At the end of its existence as a cinema, it was showing second-run films at discount prices.

By 1987 it had become a place of worship.

The last congregation to own the building

saw its membership plummet to just 30 people. It was unsustainable for the organization to continue owning it, and in 2013 the building was put up for sale.

In 2014 a nonprofit organization, Goshen Theater, Inc., was formed for the purpose of purchasing the building. Enough funds were raised to acquire the property. It remained closed for one year as repairs were Around that time, interest in the community completed to make the theater compliant began to grow around restoring the historic with the Americans with Disabilities Act. structure and continuing its legacy.

“I was asked to be on the young board when they were doing the feasibility study before Goshen Theater, Inc. purchased the theater,” says Jerry Peters, technical director.

“Afterwards I was the first employee and I made it my job to crawl around and discover just what we had bought.”

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Service Territory within 60 min of LaGrange

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As the initial repairs progressed, some discoveries were made. In the basement level, a wall that had been erected by one of the church congregations was removed.

Behind it was an old entrance that had been covered. Lighting fixtures and old tools were found. Another discovery was the original storefront windows from the 1900s.

of directors to complete a major renovation when the building temporary closed again in May of 2019.

Katie Barnes

“Ironically, when the renovation was completed, COVID hit,” says Katie Barnes, audience services and front-of-house manager. “We were planning a 2020 summer camp and had to take it virtual.

We did it in person in 2021 and attendance “There is an old painting backstage of a full-body silhouette of a woman wearing an doubled. Now we are ramping up for old-fashioned period hat,” Peters says, when expanded activities. We are planning a three-week summer camp and our Goshen asked if there is any evidence suggesting Theater Drama Club is starting to meet the building might be haunted. “She is once a month. The kids will do activities holding an object that almost looks like a cell phone of today. Each time the image has such as set painting, makeup techniques and some original programs to involve the community,” Visser says. “People can brushing up on acting skills.” been painted over, she keeps returning and participate in being part of the cast of coming to the surface.” community theater. We are excited for the The organization is always in need of 3500 N. Wheeling Ave. After the building was opened to the public volunteers. There are opportunities to usher, community to participate and volunteer.”

Muncie, IN 47304 sell tickets, work on the technical side, and in 2015, a few events such as free movies Ph.574-343-3634 The Goshen Theater is located at 216 South man the concessions area. People canMagazine sign were offered to the public. Soon, efforts Direct Fax Main Street in Goshen. Visit goshentheater. were765-288-6050 set in motion to raise money for some up on the Goshen Theater website. com or call 574-312-3701 for information major improvements. The successful Next Total balance due:________________ on events and volunteer opportunities.

Act fundraising campaign allowed the board “We are at the point where we can create

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From selling hamburgers outside their apartment’s back door in Indianapolis while in college, to becoming the owners of a restaurant in Rochester, the culinary journey of cousins Alex and Enrique Martinez is a boon for local foodies.

Primos Bar and Grill opened one year ago in a restaurant space previously occupied

by the parents of one of the cousin’s best friends. The name of the business was a natural for them - “primo” means “cousin” in Spanish.

Enrique gained experience in food service while working his way through college in Indianapolis. He started as a busser and became a sous-chef.

Alex studied business and management. His “We had the idea of opening a restaurant in parents ran a restaurant and his father is self- 2016,” Alex says. “We wanted to do our own thing.” employed. He says he knew he wanted to work for himself because of that.

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What these 26-year-old cousins have created is a fresh take on the flavors of their heritage, mixed with traditional menu items like wedge salads, burgers and margaritas. The difference is the flavor profiles that elevate classic foods with a modern twist.

During the first few months of operation, the menu was simple. Alex and Enrique say

they did not know what to expect. Neither had operated their own restaurant before and this was new ground, especially in Rochester - a new hometown for both.

and smash burgers is ground on-site. Sauces that flavor various dishes are made from scratch. Even the lime juice in the cocktails is squeezed fresh.

Enrique says their formula for a successful restaurant includes a couple of key elements - make good food, don’t cut corners and keep everything fresh. Meat for their tacos

There is a variety of smoked meats - a favorite preparation technique for Enrique and an old-fashioned cocktail called Smoke on the Water.

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He is also a fan of Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” hosted by Guy Fieri.

Enrique would not mind if Fieri came through the door to feature Primos on his show, he says. The vibe of modernizing classic dishes is exactly the kind of vibe Alex and Enrique envision for Primos.

Earlier this year the menu doubled in size.

Primos added two salad options, a couple more appetizers, more sandwich and burger selections, as well as tacos and soups. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options for many menu items - about 80% according to Enrique.

country. It is stewed meat cooked in a sauce that gives it a reddish hue. Served with a crispy shell and a flavorful sauce, it is very popular and trendy. The Primos version is made with braised chuck, Chihuahua cheese, onions, cilantro and a consommé.

One new taco selection is the birria taco, a dish that has become popular across the

Smash burgers are popular enough to have their own section on the menu. Primos

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offers 10 different smash burger options.

The smash burger is simply ground meat that is rolled into a ball and then smashed on a flat-iron grill. It creates a crispy texture on the meat patty, and reminds diners of the old-fashioned hamburgers served at hamburger joints of the 1950s.

Primos is designed to be a family-friendly place that has a fun atmosphere. It’s laid back but still has high energy.

“We are just guys who want to serve good food,” Alex says.

Owning their own restaurant has checked boxes for the Martinez cousins. They enjoy what they do, but are also aware that it takes time to manage a business. It is their passion for this work that comes through in the drinks and dishes they place before their restaurant guests, and the service their staff provides.

Primos is located at 721 Main Street in Rochester. Online ordering is available at primosbarandgrill.com. Find them on social media @primosonmain. For more information, call 574-223-3514.

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GUNNING FOR EXCELLENCE

YUTZY’S AMMO AND OPTICS OWNER TALKS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

A customer at Yutzy’s Ammo and Optics in Wakarusa was seeking the advice of Owner Karl Yutzy. The man was putting up Martin

houses and wanted something that would keep pests away. He was unsure of what he needed and what type of gun would be best.

Requests like this are typical at Yutzy’s gun

THE LAKES MAGAZINE / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

shop. He says he started the store because he wanted to make sure his neighbors and community had a place nearby to order and obtain guns, ammunition and other supplies. He purchased inventory from

another business and set up shop in an unused space behind his house between Nappanee and Wakarusa.

The shop is open in the evenings, after Yutzy gets home from his daytime job. His family is nearby, and he can help his neighbors who come by.

“I had guns as a kid and started getting more when I got married,” Yutzy says. “I always liked to shoot and calibrate guns. It was a pastime. I learned how to do more after I got the shop.”

Yutzy stocks the store with a selection of gun-related supplies such as clay pigeons for skeet shooting, cleaning supplies, batteries, flashlights and knives. He carries ammunition, rifles, pellet guns and scopes.

He has guns and scopes available in the shop. Yutzy can also special-order guns, handguns and scopes based on a customer’s preference.

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The answer Yutzy gave to the customer looking to keep pests away from his Martin houses was to procure a pellet gun and scope. Pellet guns are appropriate for hunting small game and birds, and for target shooting.

“They are extra accurate,” Yutzy explains, “They are less expensive and quiet.”

Pellet guns can also be considered air guns.

Instead of using gun powder to fire a bullet, compressed air fires small metal pellets.

Although this is similar to a BB gun, the difference is mostly found in the shape of the projectiles. In the case of a pellet gun, the projectiles are metal and resemble a shuttlecock.

When a customer comes in looking for a gun, there is information Yutzy wants to know before he makes a suggestion. He says he wants to make sure they know about gun safety and the gun they are getting. He asks what they want to use the gun for and

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Other shooters will add a scope to improve what distance they expect to be shooting. accuracy. It takes a little effort to sight the This information helps him narrow down choices so the customer walks away with the scope, but once it is set, it remains in place. appropriate gun for their needs.

Riflescopes use the same technology found in telescopes, to magnify targets in the “Depending on what they want the gun distance. A series of lenses work together to do will determine what kind of gun is to bring a target into focus. Scopes can needed,” Yutzy says. vary in size, style, construction and price.

Because of the variations and options, Different guns have different uses, depending on whether the guns will be used having someone like Yutzy on hand to help for short-range or long-range shooting. The make these decisions is an advantage his customers appreciate. experience of the shooter is also a factor.

Some guns can be used in different ways.

“I like being able to give people good deals,” he says. “I try to save people money. I try to “If you use your gun for hunting, you can sell for less.” use it for sport shooting too,” he says.

Another important factor to ensure accuracy is the scope.

“That is probably the most important,” Yutzy says. “Not all guns need a scope.”

Some guns come with sights on the barrel.

Yutzy’s Ammo and Optics is located at 30863 County Road 46, between Nappanee to the south and Wakarusa to the north.

The shop is open in the evenings. For more information, call 574-218-1702. He suggests calling first to make sure the shop is open and that he is available.

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EVERYONE MAKES PESTO IN A FOOD PROCESSOR. BUT THE TEXTURE IS BETTER WITH A MORTAR AND PESTLE, AND IT’S JUST AS FAST. — MARIO BATALI —

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A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRIND Writer / Abby Renz Photos / New Kitchen Store

How do you grind your dried herbs and spices? Perhaps you use spice grinders, especially nice for your salt and pepper, but what about mixing your spices to really bring out the flavor? But have you ever used or considered using a mortar and pestle?

When I first used a mortar and pestle for cooking, it was for basic salt grinding, as I love using pink Himalayan sea salt in my cooking. When I started mixing more spices together, I had my now three-yearold nephew to help out. We were cooking homemade tomato basil soup, and I had measured out my intended spices, (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, dry basil, etc), and helped my nephew add each to the mortar, and then we together ground THE LAKES MAGAZINE / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

the spices together with the pestle. He was doing great, and after we stirred it into the soup and added fresh basil, and then he decided to toss the pestle on the ground.

Thankfully it did not break, and he did not get hurt, and we had a quick lesson on how not to throw things. I picked it up and had him hold it in his hand, asking him, ‘Is this heavy?’ and he answered, ‘Yes auntie’, and I asked him if this would feel good if it fell on his foot or mine when he tossed it, he answered, ‘no auntie.’ I wanted him to understand why we can’t throw things, especially in the kitchen and then we finished up our dinner. In hindsight, I should have gotten him a bamboo mortar and pestle to mimic my movements, but the granite pestle held up and provided a nice lesson.

I now own two mortar and pestles, one of them the white granite and the other a gorgeous acacia wood, and use them every time I cook. I have compared my recipes flavor before and after introducing the mortar and pestles and have found that they not only release more flavor, but make cooking more enjoyable.

If you too are looking to enhance your cooking skills, you can find one that will suit your needs and your home right here at New Kitchen store. We hold in stock beautiful and functional mortar and pestles made from a variety of materials including granite, stainless Creating a highly polished finish on your old wheels.

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steel, marble, acacia wood, cast iron and acacia wood, bamboo, ceramic and fine porcelain. And if you want to make a mean guacamole, we have the Molcajete mortar and pestles made from strong lava stone. Our mortar and pestles also come in varying sizes and depths, from a small three-inch tall white or grey marble, the nearly six-by-four-inch granite, the shallow steel and very large and deep pharmaceutical-grade porcelain. So, whatever you are cooking or mixing, we can help you find what is right for you.

While you are at our store, we can also direct you to our extensive spice selection, we have spice blends, rubs, and a large variety of salt, sea salt, pepper and peppercorns to really make your dishes burst with flavor.

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

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WELL-EQUIPPED

HOFFMAN OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT HAS YOUR GEAR NEEDS COVERED Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Jeff Hoffman, co-owner of Hoffman Outdoor Power Equipment, says the business has earned a loyal following with excellent service through the years.

He adds that it’s been that way since the

popular business started, and he says employees go out of their way to always make sure customers are happy with their outdoor power equipment.

“Our parents started the business on January 1, 1970,” Hoffman says. “My brother Greg and myself took the business over on January 1, 2002.”

Hoffman has enjoyed working in the family business since he was a child. He has learned the business inside and out starting at a young age. He has seen what it takes to make sure customers buy nothing but the absolute best.

“Both my brother and myself have worked here since we were young,” he says. “Greg

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throughout the years. Customers know they will be buying equipment that will stand the test of time.

“We have many customers who have been coming here for decades and we are into the third generation of some families,” Hoffman says.

Many of the customers have become like family to Hoffman, and they have learned firsthand why purchasing new equipment is so important to get right the first time.

Hoffman notes that the business has been a reliable source for new equipment. They have also become one of the largest dealers of outdoor power equipment in the region.

started when he was 9 and I started when I was 12.”

Hoffman says he learned firsthand how

Hoffman Outdoor Power Equipment garnered a solid reputation of providing excellent customer support and satisfaction.

It has also led to a lot of loyal customers

The business offers many major brands in the outdoor power equipment industry, and they feature nothing but the best. They carry brands like Toro, ECHO, Simplicity, Walker and more. When customers go into the shop they get straight answers from a knowledgeable and informed staff that

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knows all about the equipment.

“We really do our best to educate the customer on the features and benefits of the equipment we sell,” Hoffman says. “We do a significant amount of training to keep up on this.”

Hoffman knows how much people value their hard-earned money these days, and they want to buy outstanding, high-quality outdoor power equipment from people they can trust.

He also knows how important it is to have a

high-quality snowblower to clear a driveway after a snowstorm, or a reliable lawnmower during the warmer months.

The company also provides great parts and accessories, which can make a huge difference from competitors.

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“Offering a good selection of parts and accessories has helped our success,” Hoffman says. “Customers like to know that they can come in and get the parts they need. If we don’t have it, it can be gotten in a few days under normal circumstances.”

Hoffman Outdoor Power Equipment also provides mower service, leaf blower service and more. Many longtime customers have

their equipment taken care of before the winter or spring months arrive.

people in Etna Green.

“I like the small town,” Hoffman says. “You “We service mainly what we sell,” Hoffman know a lot of the residents.” says. “We have such a high volume of service To find out more about Hoffman Outdoor work, we simply cannot do more than the Power Equipment, located at 127 West State products we sell.”

Street in Etna Green, call 574-858-9322 or Through the years Hoffman has throughly check out their website at enjoyed getting to know his customers and hoffmanslawn.com.

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STEEPED IN TRADITION CHAUTAUQUA-WAWASEE BRINGS THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

the need for local Chautauquas peaked in the 1920s and began to decline.

Mark Knecht with Chautauqua-Wawasee says the well-known community events organization has a rich history.

Through the years the programs offered by Chautauqua organizations evolved to focus on four pillars - arts, education, faith and recreation.

The goals of Chautauqua-Wawasee, a Syracuse-based nonprofit dedicated to bringing the community together through unique and engaging programming, have remained the same through the years.

“Chautauqua was a religious and cultural movement begun in the late 1890s that brought culture and entertainment to small and mid-size communities,” Knecht says.

“At its peak there were literally thousands of Chautauquas.”

With the advent of automobiles and radio,

“Today there are 19 Chautauqua organizations in North America,” Knecht says. “These have survived based on their heritage as a summer church camp. All operate independently as stand-alone organizations, each with similar but different programs, but all focusing on the four Chautauqua pillars.”

“Our organization strives to address the void still evident in Syracuse and the northern Indiana region of Chautauquatype programs - arts, education, faith and recreation,” Knecht says. “Our goal is to fill these voids with programs that make the region a better place to visit, work, live and raise a family.”

Chautauqua-Wawasee’s mission is to provide valuable and life-enriching experiences.

“Our program team seeks to identify programs and experiences that are otherwise unavailable locally,” Knecht says. “By providing unique events, we are Chautauqua-Wawasee emerged from able to serve the Syracuse area, and attract Oakwood Park, the site of United Methodist audiences from larger nearby communities summer church camp. such as Fort Wayne, South Bend, Elkhart, Goshen, Plymouth and even Indianapolis THE LAKES MAGAZINE / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

for some programs.”

Chautauqua-Wawasee also engages the public in arts, education, faith and recreation, by greatly enhancing the experiences offered.

“For example, in August of 2019 we organized four individual programs

celebrating the women’s suffrage centennial, because we saw a regional void not filled by larger nearby communities,” Knecht says.

“In 2018 we started a three-day series of Native American history programs that is now in its fourth year. These programs have leveraged local historians as well as expert speakers from Notre Dame.”

In 2021 the organization created Patriot’s Day, which takes place around July 4.

“It offers a re-enactment by an American icon, and a community-wide Patriotic Pops concert,” Knecht says. “Another annual program is our Old Fashioned Christmas, which provides a comprehensive family experience that both entertains and keeps

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according to Knecht.

Chautauqua-Wawasee also has a Bible reading in the chapel, as well as familyoriented activities such as sleigh rides, Santa appearances, caroling, live reindeer and roaming popular characters for pictures.

“For the second year this Memorial Day, we are organizing an event we call ‘Taps Across the Water at Dusk,’” Knecht says.

“In conjunction with American Legion Post 223, we recruit as many buglers as possible. We had 23 in 2021. We position them strategically around lakes in Syracuse, Wawasee and Papakeechie. “

Respect for America’s heritage is an important element of their programs,

Through the Mail-Journal newspaper and social media, Chautauqua-Wawasee asks for one minute of silence at 9:08 p.m., which is followed at 9:09 with a playing of “Taps” by all buglers.

“This event is attended by people on boats, piers, porches, decks and lake restaurants to honor veterans and all those who have fallen to keep America America,” Knecht says.

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“That’s on May 29 this year. On Patriot’s Day, June 26, we are bringing a renowned actor to perform ‘An Encounter with Thomas Jefferson,’ which is followed by the annual Fort Wayne Philharmonic Patriotic pops concert at Oakwood Resort.”

Because 99% of their programs are free to attend through grants, many people take

advantage of them.

“The grants are from the Bremback Foundation, Harkless Foundation, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, Lilly Foundation, Indiana Humanities, and Parent Family Foundation, and funding from the Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation and Visitors Commission and

donations from many of our individual patrons,” Knecht says. “We would not exist without the support of all of these who provide our funding.”

For more information on ChautauquaWawasee, located at 702 East Lake View Road in Syracuse, call 574-377-7543 or visit chautauquawawasee.org.

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PEDALING ON

BIKES FOR KIDS TO HOST THIRD ANNUAL BIKE GIVEAWAY

begins at noon with a rain date of April 23. Care is taken to match each recipient with a bicycle that is right for them. Bagged Bikes and kids just go together. Almost lunches consisting of hot dogs, chips, everyone has childhood memories involving cookies and bottles of water will be served. the thrill of owning a bike and the ongoing joy it provided. For some however, this rite The organization was started by Mark and of passage is out of reach due to economic Cathy Sage, president and vice president circumstances. Bikes For Kids, Inc. is a of the nonprofit. In 2019 their grandson nonprofit organization based in Plymouth Damian received a new bike for his birthday. that provides those in need with the chance The question came up about what to to experience the fun and outdoor exercise a do with his old bike. Damian suggested bicycle gives to a child. that perhaps a needy child would like it, Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

Saturday, April 16 will mark the third year Bikes For Kids will distribute bikes to children from Marshall and surrounding counties whose families receive county and state assistance, such as EBT, SNAP, TANF, WIC and Hoosier Works cards. The event, held in Centennial Park at the Hoosier Old Wheels pavilion and the Freyman Shelter,

and the idea of Bikes For Kids was born.

Today, the second-grader at Webster Elementary School in Plymouth serves as a spokesperson, test rider and honorary board member of the organization.

There are eight dedicated members on the board of directors. All have a keen interest in THE LAKES MAGAZINE / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

either biking or childhood fitness. Besides the Sages, the board includes: Chip Dean, owner of Integrity Academy of Martial Arts and Dean’s Auto Detail Shop; Joe Barnes, prior owner of RideonBikes and Rentals; Dan Brashere-Atkinson, avid bicycle rider and race competitor; Norma BrashereAtkinson, certified cycling instructor;

David Abair, active member of Hoosier Old Wheels; and Mirna Dault, who has served on boards and written grants for other nonprofits.

“We can always use more helpers,” Mark Sage says. “This year is different because we haven’t been able to purchase as many

new bikes as in the past, so we are filling in with refurbished bikes. We need people to pick up bikes and transport them to the barn where they are stored. The barn has a heated basement and bike storage overhead.

Volunteers are needed to clean, assemble and repair bikes. On the day of the event, we need bike runners and food-prep help.”

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Although the organization came up short on funding this year, Sage feels that enough used bikes can be rebuilt in time. Several places to drop off bikes are listed on the organization’s website. Those wishing to donate a bike and who need someone to pick it up can call 574-221-5688.

“We are looking for bikes that don’t need a lot of work,” Sage says. “Kids deserve a bike that’s like new. We are hoping to have 330 bikes to give away this year and we like to match a helmet with each child. We didn’t have the capital to buy both new bikes and helmets, so we will buy helmets with the money we have.”

The organization’s website has a Store page where donations are accepted. For just $10, a new helmet can be “purchased” to ensure the safety of a happy bike rider. Those providing funds can see photos of bikes priced at $100 for a larger size, down to $25, in an effort to cover kids from age 3 up to high schoolers who do not drive yet.

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“Everyone in the community has been supportive and there has been nothing but positives in this effort to get kids off of the couch and off of video games,” Sage says. “Two or three radio stations have gotten the word out. The bike giveaway is really an effort. There’s a lot more than meets the eye. In the future we hope to grow and expand by setting up satellite locations in other communities such as Knox or Rochester.

We’d love to reach the level of giving away 1,000 bikes in Marshall County.”

The Bikes For Kids Third Annual Bike Giveaway will be held at noon on Saturday, April 16 in Centennial Park, at 1660 North Michigan Street in Plymouth.

For more information and to donate, visit bikesforkids.net. Call 574-2215688 for pickup of used bikes in good condition.

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REFLECTING ON LEADERSHIP WARSAW AREA CAREER CENTER DIRECTOR TO RETIRE Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

When Ronna Kawsky began teaching in Warsaw, most people in the community had very little knowledge about Warsaw Area Career Center (WACC). After becoming the director and principal in 2010, Kawsky developed many initiatives and forged strong community partnerships. As she retires this spring, the community is in agreement that under Kawsky’s leadership, WACC has become a valuable educational resource for area students.

When Kawsky began her career, she had no idea she would ever become an administrator. A native of North Vernon, she attended Indiana State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer science. She later received a master’s degree in educational leadership from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.

For three years, before having her two children, she taught for Indianapolis Public Schools. Since she and her husband Richard wanted to raise their family in a small town, they moved to Goshen and she enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom for 10 years.

After restarting her career as a teacher at Warsaw Community High School, the

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Kawskys moved to Warsaw. It was then that the idea of becoming a principal started to take shape.

“I had zero plans of becoming an administrator,” she says. “However, one of my supervisors encouraged me to consider the possibilities of the difference I could make. He told me that I was currently only affecting approximately 120 students per year, but as an administrator I could impact thousands. That intrigued me enough to begin thinking about the next steps in my education.”

Regarding what made her take on the challenge of becoming director and principal of WACC, Kawsky says she loves all aspects of teaching and learning.

“I’m 100% sure I am a lifelong learner,” she says. “Never in our world has learning been more important or changing so quickly than it is now. I try to bring

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the excitement and the love of learning to everyone I am around. Knowledge is powerful and education is the tool that allows a person to make life-altering decisions about their future. That is something I love being part of.”

by Kawsky as administrator, the day care provides a needed service. It also affords the opportunity for students to gain earlychildhood education experience.

Kawsky says. “Over the years my staff and I have created an identity that hopefully will last a lifetime. Warsaw Area Career Center is thriving and growing.”

Kawsky says she is most proud of her staff.

Kawsky feels that since Warsaw is a community that values education, companies are usually willing to partner with WACC to help students get work experience in their career pathways.

Typically the organization sends almost 100 students out into the community each year.

Examples of businesses where students are placed are Inspire College of Cosmetology and Global Auto. In addition, Kawsky was instrumental in developing partnerships with Ivy Tech Warsaw and Grace College.

Students are able to get a head start towards post-secondary education and certifications.

“They have continued to grow and change at the pace of our local industry and state,” she says. “They continue to restructure and relearn as needed, to assist our students in learning whatever they need to be successful at work or in whatever post-secondary education they need.”

Warsaw Area Career Center is located at 1 Tiger Lane in Warsaw. For more info, call 574-371-5074 or visit warsaw.k12.in.us/o/wacc.

Another program Kawsky had a large role in developing is the Warsaw Community Schools employee day care. Overseen

WACC has 43 pathways available for students in the Warsaw community as well as Tippecanoe Valley schools. Areas of study include automotive, aerospace, culinary, cosmetology and fire rescue. Also included are criminal justice, human and social services, medical assistance and more.

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AKRON ICE CREAM SHOPPE SERVES UP NOSTALGIA Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Teresa Ogle, owner of Akron Ice Cream Shoppe, says she loves being able to offer people delicious treats that bring back fond memories.

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“I am the only ice cream shop in the town of Akron,” Ogle says. “There are two other restaurants that sell ice cream but we have the only ice cream shop. As far as the first places here go, many years ago both drugstores in town had served ice cream.

One was an old-fashioned soda shop inside the drugstore. Both are no longer in business.”

Ogle knew people would appreciate having a business they could visit regularly - one that would make them feel good and even nostalgic.

“It’s why I decided to open an ice cream shop,” Ogle says. “I purchased a large building and wanted to build different businesses in the town of Akron that were not available to customers. I wanted them to

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be three different entities.”

Ogle believes she succeeded.

“I was just trying to fill up space and offer a variety of things I felt Akron was missing,” she says. “I first opened up Akron Liquor Store and followed that up with Akron Tropical Tanning, and then Akron Ice Cream Shoppe, hoping to add different shopping experiences to many customers.”

Ogle loves the feeling that her business gives her.

“An ice cream shop takes me back in time,” Ogle says. “Maybe it was the walk after school to the downtown ice cream shop in my hometown. I was excited to hang out with my friends and laugh with my classmates for 30 minutes. Maybe it was being 14 years old and having a crush on a boy, and being able to sit on a stool next to him. I ordered a Cherry Coke, but I was afraid to sip through the straw. I imagined

he could hear me swallow the drink.”

Ogle enjoys bringing those same nostalgic feelings to other people. They can share the same meaningful and fun experiences with their families and friends.

“I hope this place serves the public for years to come and brings some joy to people as much as the one I visited as a teenager,” she says. “The retro feel is what I was going for.”

Ogle notes there are already several customer favorites.

“The popular ice cream flavors are Superman and Little Blue Panda with the kids,” she says. “For those who are young at heart, they are enjoying Midnight Caramel River, Cinnamon Bun, Black Cherry, Moose Tracks and Honey Roasted Peanut Butter.”

Ogle has her own favorite flavors when she wants a sweet treat.

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“My personal favorites are Cappuccino Crunch and Cold Brewed Caramocha,” Ogle says.

The shop also features daily specials. Some of the tasty specials have included chicken noodles, beef Manhattan and meat loaf.

“It has housed many different families and several different businesses over the years,” she says.

Ogle adds that the business is also a cafe.

The store also offers coffee and hot chocolate.

Akron Ice Cream Shoppe is located at 139 South Mishawaka Street in Akron. For more info, call 574-598-2093.

“We serve Spanish hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, brats and barbecue pork,” she says. “We also sell candy, popcorn and cotton candy.”

Ogle says her business is housed in a 112-year-old building.

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FAITHBASED FINANCES EVERENCE PUTS THE CLIENT FIRST Writer / Lois Tomaszewski Photography Provided

Founded in Goshen in 1945 to assist Civilian Public Service members after World War II, Everence continues that tradition of helping, with a focus on faith and a mission to help others do good work.

Founded in Goshen as a Mennonite mutual aid, Everence is a full-service financial organization with more than $6 billion

Your Dream, We Design & Build

Adjusted Colors

Multiple Revisions

REMARKS

REVISIONS

Quick Foundation Mod. (Need to update rest of print.)

Revised Front Porch & Roof

11/5/2021

10/25/2021

12/20/2021

10/26/2021

10/20/2021

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Drawn By: Payton Sword / Jason Hill

We strive for accuracy in the drawing of this print, however mistakes can happen. Please review this drawing and let the drafter know if there is something that needs revision. It is the builders respsonsibility to ensure that this design is accurate and to follow applicable building codes.

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60218 CR 35 • Middlebury, IN 46540

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in assets. Services offered include a credit union, financial planning, investments, insurance and charitable giving, among other services. It is a nonprofit, with branch locations throughout the nation.

Credit unions are not-for-profit, memberowned financial cooperatives comprised of people with shared interests. A credit union offers the same services as a bank, including savings and checking accounts, access to ATMs, loans, health savings accounts, and credit and debit cards.

“We maintain our corporate offices here,” says Allison Pletcher, marketing manager for the organization. “We employ nearly 400 people in all, and Goshen is where we have our largest concentration of employees.”

From its origins as a Mennonite mutual aid, the organization was renamed and rebranded in 2008. Acquisitions of other financial organizations also rooted in Mennonite communities nationally have

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helped Everence grow “exponentially,” Managing Director Brent Miller says.

“Everence is unique in the fact that not all financial services deal with charities,” Miller explains. “We celebrate charitable giving.”

One of the key components of Everence’s mode of operation is the desire to integrate faith-based values with financial decisions.

It appeals to people who want to make sound decisions regarding their money, but want to do so in ways that benefit their

community and live up to the ideals of their faith. A special focus is on nonprofits in the community, either as members or as recipients of charitable donations from members and Everence employees.

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Stewardship is the key tenet of the organization’s business model.

“We believe that all we have comes from God, and it’s our responsibility to use our time, talents and financial resources wisely,” Pletcher says. “That’s why Everence focuses on helping people make financial decisions that reflect their faith and values.”

million since its inception in 2017.

Members can also set up endowments to benefit a charity. The nonprofit organizations who are also members of Everence can find ways to use non-cash donations to their advantage too, using guidance from the financial advisors on the Everence team.

This is especially true when it comes to There have been several times when charitable giving. Nonprofit organizations benefit from the generosity of members, and Everence was able to negotiate the sale of a donation that did not meet the immediate join the organization as members. needs of a local organization, Miller says.

Examples include cows, pigs, a vacation “We want to help nonprofits because the healthier they are financially, the more they property in England, antiques, and a dump can do to help people in their communities truck. or around the world,” Pletcher says.

“We encourage clients to think outside the box,” Miller says.

Members have many ways to donate to local charities. For example, the credit card While Everence has a history rooted in the offered by Everence allows members to designate a charity of their choice to receive traditions of Mennonite faith, its services are open to all.

1.5% of the amount charged on the card.

This program has generated more than $1.7

Winter won’t stop us We can install from 140˚ to -40˚ below 0˚

“Many of our clients come to us because of our emphasis on faith and values, and how their principles affect their decisions about money,” Pletcher says. “It’s not a requirement for membership, but many of our members and clients belong to churches in denominations or associations with historic roots in, or relationships with, the Anabaptist faith community.”

Employees of Everence are also part of the spirit of giving. The company offers scholarships to students, and many employees volunteer with local charities and nonprofits. Miller says the purpose of the organization is simply to give back, be good stewards of clients’ resources, and use time, talent and gifts to benefit others.

The Reverence Goshen office is located at 1110 North Main Street. For more information, visit everence.com or call 574533-9511. Email the organization at info@everence.com.

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Call today to setup your free estimate!

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GET YOUR FIX

E. H. TRACTOR SHOP SPECIALIZES IN ALL MANNER OF REPAIRS Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

According to Jonathan Hochstetler, owner of E.H. Tractor Shop, if there is a tractor that needs to be fixed, he and his co-workers can Hochstetler has built up the business with take care of it. his father Elmer and his brother Perry.

“We can fix anything that is big equipment,” he says. “We will take care of it for you so you don’t have to worry.”

“We mostly fix tractors, but we can also fix logging equipment that needs to be taken care of, and telehandlers,” he says. “We get

a lot of customers that need these types of equipment fixed. We do a very good job on everything we work on.”

E.H. Tractor Shop also fixes agricultural, construction and logging equipment.

E.H. Tractor Shop, LLC 2100 W 350 N • Howe, IN 46746

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“We also have some used equipment for sale,” Hochstetler says. “We also fix tractors and skip loaders. We have had customers who have needed that type of work done.”

Hochstetler says they do many other types of repairs.

“We can do engine overhauls, work on transmissions, and we also do electrical work,” he says. “We can do great work on new and used parts as well. I think being able to work on a lot of different types of equipment has really helped us out.”

E.H. Tractor Shop does additional transmission work including tractor power shifts.

“We work on the synchro and quad range,” Hochstetler says.

Rock Bottom Resale Specializing in

Standing Seam Roofing

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E.H. Tractor Shop also works on clutches, tires and tracks.

“We can work on rims of tires, of all sizes,” he says. “We can take care of all that and do high-quality work. We have been able to build our business by doing good work that

The business has built a reputation for excellence throughout the years.

Hochstetler says. “It’s been quite a while since we started, but we have had a lot of regular customers that have had us do work for them.”

“My father Elmer started the business in 1975, when he worked on his first engine,”

In 1995, E.H. Tractor Shop began focusing on bigger equipment.

people can count on.”

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New Homes • Restoration • Strip & Re-stain Garage • Closets • Decks • Pole Barns • Interior Remodeling • Log Home Maintenance Yoder’s Log & Timber Metal Roofs • Custom Traditional Homes • Custom Log Cabin Homes • Custom Log Railing 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.

TownePost.com / APRIL 2022 / THE LAKES / 75

Hochstetler moved the business from LaGrange to Howe in 2018.

“We moved when I took over the business as owner from my dad,” he says.

For more information on E.H. Tractor Shop, located at 2100 West 350 North in Howe, call 260-463-3314.

Hochstetler has enjoyed working with his regular customers.

“I like serving people and finding out what we can do to help them with their problems,” he says. “I like being able to help people get back to work on their farms or businesses. You want your farm equipment running smoothly, and we can really help you with that. It takes good repairs to keep from having problems later.”

Hochstetler also enjoys being a valuable part of the Howe community.

“I really like the area,” he says. “It’s not overpopulated. There are a lot of very nice people and it’s great to be involved in all of that.”

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76 / THE LAKES / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

I N A P R I L AT T H E L A K E S ELKHART COUNTY

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THE MAIN SQUEEZE, IGNITION GARAGE, GOSHEN

A multicultural five-piece band from Los Angeles, CA, The Squeeze have built a cult following in the States on the road – putting rubber to pavement and playing over 1,000 shows together over the past eight years. www.ignitionmusic.net/CustomPage/6429

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EASTER CANDY DROP, ELKHART

Join the Mishawaka Parks Department and Crossroads Community Church at Central Park to celebrate Easter with their annual Easter Egg Hunt. Pics with bunny, face painting, inflatables, and a helicopter candy drop.

13

ELKHART ARTWALK, ELKHART

Elkhart ArtWalk is a free, self-guided, public art event in Downtown Elkhart every second Wednesday from 5-8pm from April to October. This is the perfect mid-week treat for art lovers and live music lovers alike. www.visitelkhartcounty.com/event/elkhart-art-walk/9993

22-24

WAKARUSA MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL, WAKARUSA

Welcome spring with plates piled high with pancakes and drenched in maple syrup. Enjoy a festival parade, numerous competitions, craft vendors and family activities including maple syrup camp tours. www.facebook.com/WakyMapleSyrup

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ELKHART’S EARTH DAY CELEBRATION AT THE ELKHART ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER, ELKHART Enjoy a free family event including Spring Seeds & Starters Exchange, Free Native Tree Giveaway, Native Tree Planting activity, Live fish demo and kids activities. www.elkhartindiana.org/government/earthday

KO S C I U S KO CO U N T Y

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

AVID ARTIST CLUB, NAIL & THREAD, WINDCHIMES, CARDBOARD BOUQUETS, ADOPT A PET AND TYE DYE, MADE ON MAIN, MILFORD

Weekly classes featuring a variety of classes. Attend one or all. All supplies will be provided. Cost is $8 per young artist ages 5-12. www.madeonmain.fun/s/search?q=April

16

LAG R ANG E COU NTY

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PASSION PLAY, MEC, SHIPSHEWANA

15 different churches involved in the production with cast over 50 individual cast and crew. This Bible-based drama will inspire all who attend! www.michianaevents.com/event/passion-play

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ANTIQUE TOY AUCTION, SHIPSHEWANA

EASTER: CUPCAKE AND WINE PAIRING, TIPPY CREEK WINERY, LEESBURG

Celebrate Easter with a Cupcake and Wine Pairing and come discover a fun filled pairing of wine with some of life’s greatest pleasures…Cupcakes & Wine! www.tippycreekwinery.com/event-directory

Live auction with 7-10 Auctioneers selling simultaneously!

This particular auction will have a special section of vintage toys! www.shipshewanatradingplace.com/auctions/misc-antiques

NOB LE COU NTY

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The Purdue Varsity Glee Club is back on the road in 2022 for the first time in nearly two years! Chautauqua-Wawasee is bringing them to Syracuse for an April 22 performance. Come early to dine locally. Doors open at 7pm.

Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased HERE www.chautauquawawasee.org/purdue-varsity-glee-club-iscoming-to-syracuse

The Easter Bunny is busy hiding eggs for the Nighttime Easter Egg Hunt on at Bixler Lake Campground in Kendallville.

Children ages 2-12yrs old can search for those hidden treasures beginning at 8pm. Be sure to bring a flashlight and your Easter basket to collect your loot! For more information, contact the Kendallville Park Department. www.facebook.com/Kendallville-Park-Recreation-Department-and-Outdoor-Sports-Complex

PURDUE VARSITY GLEE CLUB, WAWASEE HIGH SCHOOL’S AUDITORIUM, SYRACUSE

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ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE BRUNCH AT CREIGHTON’S CRAZY EGGS CAFÉ, WARSAW

11 AM-2PM, $25/person includes breakfast buffet, vendors, and raffles. Food will be buffet style with hot/cold drinks. Reservations need to be in by April 8, 2022. Tickets are available at the shelter. Contact Martha a 574-267-3008 for tickets. All proceedings will benefit the shelter. www.awlwarsaw.com/event/brunch-at-creightons-crazyeggs-cafe

ST J OS E P H COUNT Y

NOBLE COUNTY NIGHTTIME FLASHLIGHT EASTER EGG HUNT, BIXLER LAKE, KENDALLVILLE

STEU B EN COU NTY

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EASTER EGG HUNT AT COMMONS PARK, ANGOLA

Hop on over to the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Commons Park 11am-2pm! Come enjoy games, prizes, our new checkers table and cornhole boards, face painting, refreshments and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Hunt times will be 11:45am, noon and 12:15pm depending on age group.

This event is FREE for the entire family. www.angolain.org/department/division.php?structureid=97

1

RUBY: THE STORY OF RUBY BRIDGES, ST. JOE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY, SOUTH BEND

Learn the inspiring story of Civil Rights icon Ruby Bridges through the power of the arts.

Friday’s performance will include a community conversation about the role of race and arts in education. www.sjcpl.libnet.info/event/6120930

23

NOTRE DAME BLUE GOLD FOOTBALL GAME, NOTRE DAME www.und.com/save-the-date-blue-gold-game-scheduled-for-saturday-april-23

IF YOU’D LIKE TO HAVE YOUR EVENTS FEATURED IN THE WHAT’S HAPPENING SECTION, PLEASE EMAIL MANDI@TOWNEPOST.COM

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Gary & Lorene Hostetler 290-593-0448 x1 4675 W 600 S, Topeka, IN 46571

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If your home is warm in the summer and cold and/or if you have icicles hanging on your roof in the winter, we can help you!

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10460 W US 20 SHIPSHEWANA, IN 46565 78 / THE LAKES / APRIL 2022 / TownePost.com

UPCOMING EVENTS APR 1, 2022 – APR 2, 2022 PASSION PLAY

APR 8, 2022 – APR 10, 2022

INDIANA SPRING CLASSIC SHOW

APR 16, 2022

CHUPP STANDARDBRED AUCTION

APR 16, 2022

WWW.MICHIANAEVENTS.COM

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SHIPSHEWANA FIRE DEPT. FISH FRY

APR 22, 2022

CHUPP’S PONY AUCTION

APR 23, 2022

455 E FARVER STREET

NORTH AMERICAN HACKNEY SALE

SHIPSHEWANA, IN 46565

APR 28, 2022 – MAY 1, 2022 IBRA 4TH ANNUAL BIG MONEY

MAY 13, 2022 – MAY 14, 2022

MORGAN AND MORGAN CROSS SALE

MAY 13, 2022 – MAY 15, 2022 AAU GRAND PRIX VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT

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Local Goods & Foods!

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AND MUCH MORE!

VISIT TODAY! Home of Katie’s Homemade Noodles & Dutch Country Honey 11351 County Rd 16, Middlebury, IN • 574-825-3594 • Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30, Sat 8:30-5 TownePost.com / APRIL 2022 / THE LAKES / 79

Alfano’s Pier and Lift LLC Don’t stress we’re going to your house next!

New / used pier and boat lifts available

Call now! 574-526-2650 8041 E. 400 N. Leesburg, In 46538