EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com
EDITOR Lauren Zeugner lzeugner@the-papers.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Karen Johnson kjohnson@the-papers.com
Annette Weaver aweaver@the-papers.com
MARKETING
Darlene Eichelberger deichelberger@the-papers.com
Reagan Nichols rnichols@the-papers.com
DIRECTOR
Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com
Photo provided by BAEC.
Lauren Zeugner, Editor
Lzeugner@the-papers.com
Growing up, my brother and I would spend a week of our summer vacation with Grandma and Grandpa Zeugner in Reading, Pa. One of my favorite parts of those trips was going to the farmers market on Thursday mornings. We would walk into this large building filled with all sorts of people selling fruits, vegetables, fresh meat, baked goods and fresh flowers. The place was always crowded, but Grandma had her favorites that she would stop at to buy veggies for the week ahead. I remember her introducing Joel and I to the vendors. It was this same farmers market where I learned there was a definite difference in the dried apricots grown in California and Turkey. Those grown in California were a tad drier and tarter, which I liked. While those grown in Turkey, which for some reason are easier to find, are a bit
chewier and sweeter.
Why am I sharing this memory with you? Because Farmers Markets are now open for the season throughout HomeLiving’s readership area. And this month, we’re telling you about them.
In keeping with the growing theme, we’re also highlighting the large number of community gardens throughout the area. Be sure to take some time this summer to soak in a community garden, they offer great escapes from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You may be inspired to add a new plant to your landscaping or add a piece of garden art.
And we’ve even got things covered if it rains. We’ve highlighted some of the more unique museums in the area, from dinosaurs to superheroes to steam engines there are a wide variety of interactive museums that is sure to thrill a kid of any age on a rainy summer day.
And if that isn’t enough summer fun for you, we have more. We preview two major events. One being the Builders Association of Elkhart County’s annual Parade of Homes, which has homes all over Elkhart County and Niles, Mich.
The next big event is the St. Joseph County Fair which will highlight the projects 4-Hers in St. Joseph County have been working on for the last year. As my 4-Hers always ask, “What’s your favorite fair food?”
And lastly our personality profile is on Randy Matthys who was selected as the 2025 Master Farmer of the Year. Matthys is a fourth generation farmer and grows peppermint and spearmint along with other crops.
Enjoy!
Lauren
Tell our advertisers you saw their ad in
HOMELIVING
Parade of Homes
offers inspirations for future and current homes
This year’s annual Parade of Homes will consist of eight featured homes, one home under construction and one tiny home. There are six builders featured this year, including Team Construction, M.J. Construction, Schrock Homes, Fireside Homes, Wagoner Custom Homes and Miller Brothers Builders, who are showcasing three homes. The premier sponsor this year is Mid-City Supply Co. The gold sponsors this year include Big C Lumber, Kendall Lighting Center and Hoosier House Furnishings.
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
Some of the unique homes being featured this year are: a Craftsman-style home; a home with a butler’s pantry and basement daylight windows; a modern home with 11foot ceilings, a large covered back porch and an oversized garage; a home with a stunning primary suite and outdoor fireplace on a lot with a river view; a modern, rustic home with wood-clad cathedral ceilings and exposed beams; a home with a large, working, walk-in pantry, beautiful sitting room off the dining area and a covered entertainment area; and a home with an open floor plan and view of Diamond Lake. Schrock Homes will also have the home under construction available for viewing. The tiny home was built by the Concord High School building trades program.
Parade of Homes attendees will not only be able to see the construction of various homes by different builders as well as the latest in home decor and design. This includes popular color palettes and finishes, lighting, kitchen cabinets, flooring, closet and pantry designs, windows, doors, landscaping, outdoor living and more. “It offers the opportunity to see so many different designs that will spark ideas for home projects both big and small,” Brian Levan, Levan Media and Marketing and member-at-large of the Builders Association of Elkhart County, shared. It provides much more than simply looking at newly built homes.
Attendance at the Parade of Homes comes highly recommended by Levan. “Whether
you’re planning to build soon or in the future or just want to refresh your current home, the Parade will provide so many opportunities to gather ideas and inspiration,” he emphasized. “It’s so helpful to walk through a space and layout to determine what will work best for your family’s lifestyle. It’s much easier than simply looking at a printed floorplan, especially when it comes to rooms you spend so much time in, like a kitchen, bathroom or family room. The Parade gives you a wide variety of different layouts to consider along with decor and lighting ideas as well. You’ll also find inspiration for upgrades in your current home, like flooring, lighting, cabinets or the custom closet you’ve always dreamed of. At the Parade, you can find inspiration for details, both large and small. We’ve built four homes and we always found a design and then scaled it to fit our family and our budget. You might not love every detail of a plan, but the Parade helps you take a plan and make it your own.”
Tickets will be on sale until June 28. If purchased at the home, the cost is $10 each. Discounted tickets for $8 are available at Martin’s Super Market stores in Elkhart, Nappanee, Goshen, South Bend, Mishawaka, Granger and Niles, Mich., at the customer service desk as well as online at baec.com.
Children under age 18 are free. The Parade of Homes is open from 1-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 20 and 21; from 4-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 25 and 26; and from 1-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 27 and 28. n
This year the Builders Association of Elkhart County’s Parade of Homes will have eight new homes, one tiny home and one home under construction on display to be viewed by the public. Builders will enter a home they wish to be included in the event and build the home for this event. Each of the homes is then opened up to the public for those who purchase tickets. The builders participating this year are Miller Brothers Builders, Schrock Homes, Team Construction, M.J. Construction, Fireside Homes, Wagoner Custom Homes and Concord High School Building Trades.
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
If high gas prices and packed summer schedules are keeping you from hitting the road and seeing the sights, don’t worry! There are a number of unique museums in the area that are sure to be fun for the whole family. With cool displays, interactive exhibits, and authentic artifacts, you’ll not only enjoy the experience, but you might just learn something too!
AMAZING Area museums offer unique
Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum (Elkhart)
This is the only museum in the world dedicated to preserving and covering the entire 80year history of superheroes in comics, toys, TV shows and on film. (Even some of the more obscure franchises!) Be sure to check out the Batman exhibit fea
kosciuskohistory.com
RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum (Elkhart)
Celebrate the trailblazers of the open road at this one-of-a-kind destination that honors the past while championing the future of this unique industry. From vintage campers to industry milestones, guests will discover how these exciting innovations changed the way Americans lived and traveled. For more information, visit thervmhhalloffame.org.
1960’s television show as well as the prop shield used in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger. For more information, visit hallofhe
Old Jail Museum (Warsaw)
If you are looking to experience the past in a whole new way? Then you won’t want to miss out on this! Designed by George Garnsey and built by Richard Epperson in 1870, the Old Jail Museum has items from noted 1930’s bank robber John Dillinger, a copper bathtub, military memorabilia, vintage photos and more across two floors. Guests can also be put “behind bars” to discover what it would be like to serve time in this local lock-up. For more information, visit kosciuskohistory.com/.explore/oldcounty-jail/.
The History Museum (South Bend)
Established in 1867, the History Museum boasts a collection of 600,000 artifacts across seven galleries in a 40,000 -square- foot building. The grounds also include three historic homes: Copshaholm (also known as the Oliver Mansion), the Worker’s Home, and Navaree Cabin. Tours of Copshaholm and the Worker’s Home are available daily. For more information, visit historymuseumsb.org.
unique exhibits of the cool and unusual ATTRACTIONS
Wakarusa Historic Complex and Museum (Wakarusa)
Take a peek into the past at this unique property, which in cludes a doctor/veterinary office, railroad cars, caboose, grandma’s house, Dean’s tool shed, little red schoolhouse and more. Central to the complex is the depot that was used by the Wabash Railroad until the line was acquired by the Norfolk & Western Railroad. For more information, visit wakarusachamber.com.
Indiana Dinosaur Museum (South Bend)
No bones about it, with 43 dinosaur sculptures, 30 dinosaur skeletons, research library, working laboratory and more, this fami ly-friendly destination offers visitors of all ages to explore original exhibits, fossil digs and interactive displays. Admission also includes access to the 90acre Continental Divide park. For more in formation, visit: indianadinosaurmuseum.org.
New York Central Railroad (Elkhart)
Owned and operated by the City of Elkhart, this museum pre serves the history of a line that was once the second largest railroad in the US with 11,000 route miles of track laid across 11 states and two Canadian provinces. It is home to three iconic locomotives, sev eral passenger and freight cars as well as a 1949 New Haven Grill dining car. For more information, visit cityofelkhartin.gov/departments/na tional-new-york-central-railroad-museum/.
hesston.org
cityofelkhartin.gov
Hesston Steam Museum (Hesston)
Step into a slice of history and experience the magical machines of the industrial age! At the Hesston Steam Museum, guests have the opportunity to ride on three real steam engines including the Hesston & Galena Creek narrow gauge railroad, the historic miniature railway or the Real Steam/Real Small hobby train. Beyond the tracks, folks can also see a 1911 Avery Steam tractor engine, a steam sawmill, crane and so much more. For more information, visit hesston.org. n
aroundmichiana
JUNE 5-7 | WARSAW FREEDOM FEST
Multi-day festival. Fireworks, local vendors, concert, family-friendly, parade and more Kosciusko County Community Fairgrounds
1400 E. Smith St.
YEAR ROUND | MIDDLEBURY TRAIL TALES
Bring the family outdoors to read a children’s book while walking a short path at Riverbend Park; book pages are placed in special kiosks along the path. New books are installed monthly. Event partners are the Middlebury Public Library and Middlebury Parks Department.
NOW - SEPT. 24 | MIDDLEBURY MIDDLEBURY ESSENHAUS CLASSIC CAR CRUISE-IN
Das Dutchman Essenhaus 240 US 20 Thursdays, 4:30 -8:30 p.m. Registering your classic ride is free and includes coupons to the Essenhaus Restaurant and the Essenhaus Village Shops. For more information visit essenhaus.com.
NOW - SEPT. 30 | SHIPSHEWANA SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET
345 S Van Buren St.
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Every Tuesday and Wednesday.
JUNE
Visit kcfreedomfest.og for more information.
JUNE 6-7 | ST. JOESEPH COUNTY FREE FISHING DAY
St. Joseph County Parks: St. Patricks, Ferrettie/Baugo County Parks
10 a.m. -9 p.m.
Free gate entry, just show fishing poles.
For more information visit sjcparks. org/calendar.aspx?CID=26
JUNE 17-20 | NORTH WEBSTER 80TH MERMAID FESTIVAL
504 W. Washington St. Rides, food, parades and much more. Visit northwebsterlionsclub.com/ MERMAID.html for more information.
JUNE 20-21 | SOUTH BEND 59TH LEEPER PARK
ART FAIR
907 Riverside Drive
Over 80 artists showcased. Free parking and admission.
JUNE 20-21; 25-28 | ELKHART COUNTY PARADE OF HOMES
Builders Assocation of Elkhart County
CITY SKI SHOW
2 - SEPT. 6 | WARSAW LAKE
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Sundays 2455 Hidden Lake Drive Admission is free and parking are free. Concessions available. Visit lakecityskiers.org or call (574) 373-0703 for more information.
JUNE 5-6 | SOUTH BEND STUDEBAKER INDIANA SWAP MEET & CAR SHOW
St. Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds 5117 S. Ironwood Road
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, June 5
8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6 Admission is $5 for the public.
Tickets are $8 at select Martin’s Super markets or at baec.com; $10 if purchased at a parade home.
Hours: 1-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21; 4-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 25 and 26; and 1-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 27-27.
JUNE 29 | ELKHART
ART WALK AFTER HOURS
7:30 p.m.
Elkhart Parks and Recreation and The Lerner Theater are hosting a brandnew outdoor concert season on the Central Green in downtown Elkhart. For more information visit thelerner. com or call The Lerner Box Office, (574) 293-4469. n
101st St. Joseph Fair set for July 3-11
By BethAnne Brink-Cox
HomeLiving Feature Writer
How old is the fair? SikorskiConklin said, “This year marks our 101st fair! I have served on the Fair Board since November 2014 and I have been president since August 2021.”
Kristen Sikorski-Conklin is the President of the St. Joseph County 4-H Fair Board. At this time of year, she’s all about the swiftly approaching fair, the 2026 St. Joseph County 4-H Fair that is, and it’s scheduled for July 3–11 As you’d expect, it will be held at the fairgrounds located at 5117 S. Ironwood Road in South Bend.
You have to wonder if there will be a lot of different or special events because of the Fourth of July, and because it is the Semiquincentennial? Sikorski-Conklin replied, “Our fair theme this year is Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights. We will be hosting some “old time” classic fair events, such as skillet throwing, corn dog eating and seed spitting contests. We will also host fireworks on July 11, to celebrate both America’s birthday and the end of this year’s fair.”
When you remember attending county fairs in your younger years, what sticks out most in your memories? What are the tried and true exhibits, and what are the newer ones? Fair food? Carnival rides? Other
fair. Some other annual events include our rodeo, and monster truck events.” She continued, “New this year will be a Powersports Rodeo and a few new food vendors. I love all things related to celebrating the 4-Hers as well as our fair queen pageant, and new this year? The Senior Pageant!”
Will there be special pricing over the Fourth or any other day during the run? There doesn’t need to be; the pricing is wonderfully affordable. Sikorski-Conklin confirmed it. “Our fair admission is just $6 per person, and children 8 and under are always free! We pride ourselves on keeping admission costs low to offer family friendly affordable entertainment.” And these days, that matters more than ever.
up for almost right up to the fair! We also offer open class, which is an opportunity for adults over 18 to show off their talents,” Sikorski-Conklin enthused. And “more information can be found at 4hfair.com/little-hands“ she added.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to be more than a spectator, bringing your best baking and needlework, or most wonderful animals to compete. Is there still time for those who want to exhibit or otherwise participate in this year’s fair? “Yes! 4-H enrollment is ongoing and be signed
Even a quick look at the schedule 4hfair.com shows there is so much to do, attending one day may very well not be enough to see and do everything you’d like to. For example? Donkey shows, and pygmy goats too. How about a poultry costume contest? Hens or roosters; they both like to be well-dressed, right? (And rabbits, too!) Antique tractor pulls? What about a youth talent contest or a rocket launching demonstration? Maybe a cavy maze craze? What exactly is that? Well, it refers to building mazes for pet guinea pigs (cavies) to explore, a DIY interactive puzzle to encourage natural foraging behavior and exercise.
One final touch to help you make your plans: Wristband days are July 3-6, and 8-11. Also on July 6, it’s All Abilities Day! On July 7, it’s $2 Midway, and Kids Day, Foster Care Day, and Natural Resources Day. n
Matth ys named 2025 Master Farmer of the Year
By BethAnne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
Randy Matthys is an Indiana Master Farmer of the Year, 2025, and his mint farm encompasses 1,000 acres. This is a family farm, and he is the fourth generation to work the land and raise the crops. Times change; the farm, located in South Bend, is nearly 100 years old and has gone from the basic outbuildings you’d expect–Matthys said, “The dairy barn was built in 1932 and the family moved into the house in 1936”-to continual growth and change, such as solar panels and irrigation systems. This is something he knows well; his grandparents made the decision to move out of the dairy business and into crops. In addition to the spearmint and peppermint, which he sells to Mars and Wrigley, Matthys also raises corn, soybeans and wheat.
How do you get that stellar title? When asked if he was surprised, Matthys chuckled, “Oh yeah, yeah. It was a nomination. Started out with one of our neighbors who does truck garden ing, you know, stuff like corn and tomatoes. His name is Patrick Kowalski, and I guess he just watched us farm for years. So he got ahold of one of my sons and said, you guys should nominate your dad. So my youngest son, Douglas, got ahold of some friends, fellow farmers, you know, six
different ones and they all wrote a letter of support. Once the letters get to Purdue University, there’s a committee, some of the members are past Master Farmers, and they make the decision.”
A quick search of the Indiana Prairie Farmer magazine shows the expertise Matthys brings to the farm he loves so much. By measuring the moisture in the soil, he knows when to irrigate, which is the best usage of water. He knows about producing as much as possible, especially in the leaner times, while not stinting on sprays and other forms of assistance for the best results. He’s definitely the kind of man any young farmer just starting out would want to ask for his expertise, and then trust to do everything Matthys recommends.
Matthys has two sons and a daughter. One son, along with a nephew, works
with him on the farm and likely has an eye on being the fifth generation, known as Shady Lane Farms. Another son does his own thing, Matthys said, and he has a daughter in Durham, NC who is a nurse practitioner.
Matthys is a quiet, soft-spoken man who said, “I’m humble. I like to socialize, don’t get me wrong. But when I’m out, in a crowd, well, I like to listen.” He said he’s always believed “as long as we can cover our costs, and have a margin of profit left over, you know, just make sure we can get to the marketplace.” He continued, “Biggest concern? Costs of production, repairs and machinery costs. It’s amazing how big a check you have to write these days. I’ve got things in line for my son, but what if there’s not enough to make it work, the way things are? And I can deal with the weather but the market, supply and demand, things like that, those are out of my control.
So he works the land he loves, and supervises those who work for him, making sure everything runs smoothly, the way he learned from his dad, who learned from his dad, and, well, you know how it goes. There’s nothing else he would rather be doing, and when you do it that well, it’s to be hoped that he can continue on for years to come. n
When you think of farming in Indiana, you probably think, mostly, of corn and soybeans. There are plenty of similar farms that raise these essential crops. But there are others who have fields of things you might not think of, like…spearmint and peppermint. It’s essential, too, for candy and gum and oils and toothpaste!
Photos provided by Randy Matthys
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
Community gardens grow happier, healthier people CLASSROOMS
They are carefully curated spaces that inspire home growers, enhance urban landscapes and provide a quiet respite from the world at large. In addition to their aesthetic and environmental benefits, community gardens grow happier, healthier people through education, engagement and sustainable practices. Thankfully, Michiana is home to several community gardens that promote social ties, biodiversity and improved quality of life. Looking for a moment of Zen this summer? Visit a community garden where you can relax, breathe deeply and engage with the natural world!
Wellfield Botanical Gardens (Elkhart)
Cultivating art, education, and ecology to nurture a more vibrant and sustainable world, the 36-acre Wellfield Botanical Gardens has been a source of hydraulic energy and drinking water for the city of Elkhart since the mid-1800’s. The property includes a variety of picturesque layouts that are sure to inspire your own landscape including an Annual Garden, Children’s Garden, English Cottage Garden, and more. Don’t miss out on some of the garden’s special events such as charcuterie board building, bird walks, fitness classes, and stories in the garden. For more information, visit https://www.wellfieldgardens.org.
Shiorjiri Niwa (Mishawaka)
East meets West in this strolling garden located in Merrifield Park. The Shiorjiri Niwa garden highlights the sister-city relationship between Mishawaka and Shiojiri City in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Dedicated in 1987 and designed by Shoji Kanaoka (landscape architect for EPCOT’s Japanese pavil-
ion), the space features 20 varieties of large plant material, over 200 large boulders, a statue of Japanese and American children, and a teahouse pavilion. There are also four bridges that add ambiance to this unique urban space. For more information, visit https://www.visitsouthbend.com/directory/shiojiri-niwa-garden/.
DeFries Garden (Elkhart)
Located in River Preserve County Park; DeFries Garden is a 13-acre site that was once a private homestead complete with an 1880s Victorian-style home surrounded by gorgeous woodlands and grounds. The central display is the one-acre Calendar Garden, a 365-foot circular design that highlights the summer and winter solstices as well as the spring and fall equinoxes along with native flowers and plants so that guests can follow the seasons throughout the year. There is also a small fishpond that is teeming with plant and animal life. Come see why this not-so-secret garden is beloved by residents and visitors alike. For more information, visit https://elkhartcountyparks.org/destinations/defries-gardens/.
Potawatomi Conservatories (South Bend)
Designed and built in the 1960s by Lord & Burnham, the Potawatomi Conservatories offer a tranquil oasis within Potawatomi Park. Visitors can wander among the paths of lush, tropical plants in the Ella Morris Conservatory, which also includes a lovely fountain or bask in the large, open space of the Muessel-Ellison Conservatory that features a small waterfall, as well as the shapes and textures of the Desert Dome succulents. In addition to celebrating the ecology, beauty and cultural significance of the plants in both the conservatories and throughout the park, the Friends of Potawatomi Conservatories host educational programming including watercolor workshops, yoga and more. For more information, visit https:// www.potawatomiconservatories. org. n
Wellfield Botanical Gardens DeFries Garden
Shiorjiri Niwa Potawatomi Conservatories
Farmers markets offer LOCAL produce and goods
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
Local farmers markets are a great way to support the community while finding fresh food and produce as well as a variety of hand-crafted goods. Many take place outdoors during the warmer weather months, typically starting in May or June. Markets have certain hours each week and continue through the fall. These markets allow individuals to sell and share their quality goods and skills with the surrounding area.
Goshen Farmers Market
The Goshen Farmers Market is open year-round at the historic Mill Race Center, 212 W. Washington St., Goshen. They are open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays from May through October. The goal is to create a viable market for locally grown and crafted products. The market is a project by the nonprofit Community Sustainability Project. “It is their mission to foster local sustainable practices to connect the community through food, art and education,” Jo Ellen Davis, farmers market manager, described. “Our vision is to be a community hub where food and art converge, fostering creativity, learning and a spirit of generosity, growing a brighter future for all.”
Depending on the time of year, there are typically 20 to 30 vendors. These include 11 farmers with produce, meat and flowers, four prepared food vendors and many home bakers and artisans. All items must be produced within 150 miles of Goshen so it is all local. These include: farm produce, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, meat, poultry, eggs and cheeses; flowers and beddng plants; baked goods; ready to eat food; processed foods such as jelly, vinegar and sauces; artisan items; and some specialized services.
As part of the Community Sustainability project, there is also Fresh Food Therapy, a ProduceRX program with Maple City Heath Care clinic, and a Sprout Kids Club that help school-aged children try local food, learn healthy habits and interact with farmers. Double Up Michiana helps SNAP recipients have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Share the Bounty helps support SNAP recipients and provides food vouchers.
Mishawaka Market
The Mishawaka Market takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday in the Ironworks Plaza. It kicked off on Sunday, May 31, and goes until Sept. 27. There is no market on holiday weekends, such as June 14, July 5 and Sept. 6. No smoking is allowed throughout the market, dogs must be kept on leashes and all alcohol must be kept in its designated areas.
Syracuse Artisans and Farmers Market
The Syracuse Artisan and Farmers Market is in its 17th season. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays from May 16 to Sept. 5 at Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill, Syracuse. “We have a very friendly atmosphere with our variety of great vendors and we’re looking forward to another great season,” Darin Lursen, Syracuse parks and recreation program director, stated.
There will be locally grown produce, flowers, baked goods and art. There are currently 11 seasonal vendors signed up for the market with 20 total signed up for opening weekend in May. Their products include coffee, candles, cake pops, baked goods, beef, flowers, vegetables, mushrooms, pottery, woodwork and crochet items.
Downtown Wakarusa Farmers Market
visitkosciuskocounty.org
northwebster.com
North Webster Farmers Market
The North Webster Farmers Market will take place on the second Saturday of each month from June to October, starting June 13, on the Mermaid Festival grounds. It will include locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, handcrafted items, artisan goods, seasonal plants and flowers, and honeys and jams.
The Downtown Wakarusa Farmers Market is held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday in the parking lot of 123 S. Elkhart, St., Wakarusa. The outdoor season begins on Saturday, June 6, and will continue through Oct. 3, as long as weather permits. The market is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting the community to locally grown, raised and produced products. There are also produce vendors that accept EBT and WIC, allowing access to high quality produce to everyone.
There are typically 20 to 30 vendors at each market, but they are expecting and accepting more vendors. Items offered include produce, meats, eggs, jellies and jams, herbal remedies, baked goods, homemade soaps, coffee, tea, woodworking and arts and crafts. This year they are co-hosting a few events such as the Wakarusa Independence Day parade on June 27 with live music, vendors, a parade and competitions all day as well as the Wakarusa Back to School Bubble Bash on Aug. 15.
“In the future, it is our goal to strengthen food systems within the community to create food security,” Katie Moore, Downtown Wakarusa Farmers Market manager, shared. “We plan to accomplish this by creating a seed and plant program where individuals can plant one or two different crops in their yard and trade among others who partake in the program so they will end up with a variety of produce items. This will not only strengthen community connections but also help stop food insecurity on a local level.” They are always looking for more volunteers, whether it be with set up, tear down, planning events or helping grow the new seed and plant program. n
visitkosciuskocounty.org
Amazing Attractions
Indiana Dinosaur Museum South Bend indianadinosaurmuseum.org
Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum Elkhart hallofheroesmuseum.com
The History Museum South Bend historymuseumsb.org
New York Central Railroad Elkhart cityofelkhartin.gov/departments/ national-new-york-centralrailroad-museum/
Wakarusa Historic Complex and Museum Wakarusa wakarusachamber.com
RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum Elkhart thervmhhalloffame.org Old Jail Museum Warsaw kosciuskohistory.com/explore/ old-county-jail/ Hesston Steam Museum Hesston hesston.org
Potawatomi Conservatories South Bend potawatomiconservatories.org
Farmers Markets
Mishawaka Market (574) 258-1664
Downtown Wakarusa Farmers Market (260) 977-1274
Goshen Farmers Market (574) 533-4747
Syracuse Artisan and Farmers Market Dan Lursen (574) 457-3440
North Webster Farmers Market (574) 834-1600 Ext. 232
JUNE Did You Know?
In Michigan, the last Sunday in June is National Log Cabin Day. In 1989, legislation passed making it the only state to hold the annual festival including tours of historic log cabins. Some historic cabins date back to 1840.
Since June is in honor of the Roman goddess Juno of marriage and childbirth, it remains a popular month for weddings. The tradition of calling the first month of marriage the “honeymoon” stage is traced back to the 1500s in Europe.
BIRTHDAYS!
There are multiple famous individuals born in June. Prince was born on June 7.
Anne Frank was born on June 12.
Helen Keller was born on June 27.
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
June is the month for Father’s Day. This holiday celebrates father figures and male role models. It is celebrated on the third Sunday in June each year. Since it also falls toward the beginning of summer, it is typically celebrated with outdoor activities such as barbecues, camping, fishing or going to the beach. The first known remembrance was in 1908 in Fairmont, Va., after a terrible mining accident killed multiple men and boys and a local woman wanted to honor the fathers that had passed.
CELEBRATIONS IN JUNE!
In the U.S., June is known as National Candy Month. June 2 is known to be National Rocky Road Day. June 3 is National Macaroon Day. June 7 is National Chocolate Ice Cream Day.
Midsummer is traditionally celebrated on June 24. It is shortly after the summer solstice or longest day of the year, which occurs June 20 or 21. It historically marks the halfway mark between planting season and harvest. It is celebrated in many countries and a national holiday in Sweden and Finland. It originated as a pagan celebration to welcome summer and bring good fortune for the harvest.
June is known as National Dairy Month and celebrates all the work dairy farmers do in the U.S. The month celebrates favorites such as milk, cheese and ice cream.
June’s full moon is known as the strawberry moon since wild strawberries were ripe for picking during this time. Other crops such as greens, peas, beans, new potatoes, carrots and blueberries are also ripe for harvest.
June 19 is the celebration of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. In 1865, Union General Gordon Granger read the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston, Texas, liberating all enslaved people in the state. This day is celebrated as the official end of slavery through out the country.
June is well-known among serious tennis fans for the prestigious Wimbledon tennis match. It was established in 1877.
OUTDOOR FAVES!
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are the mascot of June and are particularly active in early June. Synchronous fireflies, which are known for their coordinated flashes, create light displays that can last two to three weeks. n
and now you know!
image created by Gemini
A Teacher’s P O V
A Student’s Answer to Future Hope
By Christi Lee-Ziebarth Guest Writer
She paused, shuffled in her bag for a paper and pencil, then quietly drew an island while a few more tears fell down her friend’s ashen face.
“On this island,” she announced with a matterof-fact tone, “we are all together…forever! This is the power of art! In this picture, we will always be together.” And, she named a group of friends, one by one.
Her arm lifted. The drawing was held up for all in the small circle to see.
This was the least she could do and the best she could do in the moment. I found the gesture to be endearing and simple and brilliant. It warmed my heart.
The steady quiet tone of her voice rang genuine in the quiet classroom revealing that she didn’t care who overheard. She believed this simple drawing would make a difference to the student dabbing tears from their eyes seated by the doorway. He had walked in just minutes before.
“What’s the matter? What’s the matter?” She echoed.
“I’m sad to graduate,” the senior confessed. “I want to stay with all of you and see you every day. It’ll be so different when school is out.”
Change. Change is inevitable.
To this, she had paused, shuffled in her bag for a paper and pencil, and drew…an island.
I’m not sure what the island looked like. I revered the sacred moment too much to turn around and look over her shoulder. It was their conversation, not mine.
My inner vision pictured strings of arched triangles for waves, a couple elongated lumps for mountains, puffs for clouds, palm trees on a beach shore and stick figures lined up by a flickering line-bonfire. Likely, this is all she had time to draw in the two minutes that had passed.
Either way, the gesture seemed to calm the circle of friends by the door…and everyone else in the classroom who overheard the conversation. She pointed to each figure and named them. They laughed. There may have been features drawn in that identified each friend: glasses, hairstyles, clothing. I heard her say, “See, here’s her jeans…” Suddenly, he was in a better mood. They all were. “Miss Lee,” she turned towards me. “Tell him he will be fine when he graduates and that everything will be okay.” My head may have jerked sideways to hear my name called into the private/ not-so-private conversation. I wanted to be sure my words in response were not just pacifying, but hopeful, true and forward reaching.
I took a deep breath, “I have confidence in you ALL that you have everything it takes to go out into the world and succeed!” I responded without missing a beat while leaving details open-ended to align with personal goals.
I was not named as an honorary member of the island itself, and that’s okay. Further imaginative conversation lead to their belief that I was on a boat circling the island and I’d dock should any of them want to get on and join the “world”. There was also talk of the island “growing” to accommodate new friends and experiences beyond the stick-bonfire. Analogy goes a long way when speaking to the heart.
Grow your island to accommodate your future!
Why I was given the honor of speaking into their ‘growing island’ scenario, I don’t know. I was in the room and in close proximity. I am their teacher.
Within minutes, the countdown of the clock said it was time for class to end. Members of the island collected their books and walked out the door.
The countdown of the calendar says seasons are about to change from Spring to Summer.
This particular group of students will only walk out my door a few more times until summer calls them all away and graduation calls some away forever.
When I think back on my Spring of 2026 teaching high school in a small but significant Indiana town, it is this little priceless exchange that will rise to the surface of my mind like a life preserver in uncertain waves and changing times.
As adults, we, too, face uncertain waters and long for figurative islands to retreat to;
islands where time does not pass and everything and everyone stays the same. We, too, choose who we allow to speak into our tomorrows and assure that we have what it takes to face future successes.
Such is life.
May we all hold on when we need to hold on and let go when we need to let go. May we speak into each other’s tomorrows with hope and positivity. May we believe the best of days are yet to come. May we ever grow our islands.
Gyros Burgers
This is a Greek-American lamb-and-beef burger inspired by the tradi tional Greek pork or lamb gyros (or gyro). Serve the burgers on warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and thinly sliced onion, tomato, and lettuce.
INGREDIENTS:
q 1/2 pound lean ground beef
q 1/2 pound lean ground lamb
q 1/2 onion, grated
q 2 cloves garlic, pressed
q 1 slice bread, toasted and crumbled
q 1/2 teaspoon dried savory
q 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
q 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
q 1/2 teaspoon salt
q 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
q 1 dash ground cumin
INGREDIENTS:
q 1/2 cup unsalted butter
q 3 tablespoons plus 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar, divided
q 1 tablespoon cornstarch
q 12 canned pineapple slices packed in juice; drained and patted very dry with paper towels, juice reserved
q 1/4 cup white sugar
q 3/4 teaspoon salt
q 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
q 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
COOK’S NOTE:
q 1 large egg yolk
q 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
q 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
q 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
q 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
q 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
q 6 maraschino cherries, drained, stems removed, cut in half, and patted very dry with paper towels
1 20-ounce can of pineapple slices in juice contains 10 pineapple slices. So, you will need 2 cans for this recipe. Don’t be alarmed if the dough seems dry. It needs to be a bit on the dry side to not be saturated by the pineapple.
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat, and lightly oil grate.
In large bowl, combine ground beef, ground lamb, onion, garlic, and bread crumbs. Season with savory, allspice, coriander, salt, pepper, and cumin. Knead until mixture is stiff. Shape into 4 very thin patties (1/8-inch to 1/4-inch thick).
Grill patties for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. n
Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies
DIRECTIONS:
These pineapple upside-down cookies are a bit of a project to make, but they’re tasty, and a fun departure from the usual run-of-the-mill cookie. Make sure to really pat the pineapple slices dry before using. This may take several changes of paper towels, but is necessary to keep the cookies from becoming soggy when stored. I also recommend storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer.
Place butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until butter smells nutty and has turned an amber color, 5 to 7 minutes. Pour browned butter into a large mixing bowl, and set aside to cool.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix 3 tablespoons brown sugar and cornstarch together in a small bowl. Dredge each pineapple slice in the cornstarch mixture, making sure both sides of each slice are well coated, then place onto the prepared baking sheets (6 pineapple slices per baking sheet, spaced several inches apart).
Bake pineapple slices in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Keep the oven on at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
To the mixing bowl with brown butter, add remaining 3/4 cup brown sugar, white sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, egg yolk, pineapple juice, and vanilla, and whisk until thoroughly smooth and combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add flour, baking soda, and baking powder and stir until incorporated; using your hands if needed to mix it in completely. Dough will be thick, and seem somewhat dry.
Divide dough into 12 pieces and roll into balls, about 2 tablespoons each. If dough breaks apart, just keep pressing it back together as much as needed until it holds its shape. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2-inch thick; again, press dough back together as needed if it breaks.
Place a maraschino cherry half in the center of each one of the pineapple slices. Top each pineapple slice with a disc of dough, pressing down slightly to adhere.
Bake 1 pan at a time in the preheated oven until golden brown and appear mostly set, 13 to 17 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool for 15 minutes on the pan, then carefully flip over onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Store extra cookies in the refrigerator to prevent them from getting soggy. n
